The cloud sofa. Is one of our most requested items. But why? As more designers cater to the laidback California style, incorporating casual furniture pieces is becoming increasingly popular, and the first piece that clients think of is the “RH cloud”. Yes, RH designs pieces that embody laid back luxury, but I would like to point out that Cisco home (among other local upholsterers and companies) have been making sectionals like this for much longer than RH. I wonder, Is it their marketing reach? Or did they manage to subliminally insert themselves into the “Netflix and chill” trend. Personally, I think it’s the ten-pound catalog they still mail out… But seriously, RH does always seem to be on trend with today’s consumer …at least in the sense of what people want in the design of their homes.
But for my clients who ask for “the cloud” or a close facsimile, I would like you to know that 40% of RH products are made in China. Not only should you be aware of the lack of integrity in their pieces, but also of child labor practices, and the lack of regulations regarding materials and other toxins on their fabrics. Studies have shown that Glyphosate and Formaldehyde are two of the most common restricted substances found in furniture and finishes shipped from China. What’s worse is that most of the manufacturing companies that these pieces come from can’t even show documents proving regulatory compliance.
While I know that buying from RH is easy and convenient, I would like to propose a change. Just how people have moved towards only buying organic/pesticide free produce and appreciate farm to table dining; it’s time to buy furniture from makers who not only embody fair labor, but who can also trace all materials to their original origin and speak to the quality of each individual piece.
BUY LOCAL.