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20.5.1
20 ft: Does it catch your eye from across the room? Here’s
what to look for:
Proportion. Consider the relationship between the
top, legs and body. Are the individual parts properly sized? Do they
work together to create balance?
Lines and Allure. Do you notice the curves, planes,
shadows, and patterns? Let your eyes flow over the piece and absorb
from every angle. Are you able to appreciate the simple beauty of
the piece as a whole without distraction?
Placement and Style. Where will you put it? Observe
how the piece relates to other furniture and objects‚ then
picture it with your own. Remember, this piece will be a part of
your life for years, so consider this in terms of the style to which
you aspire, not necessarily to the couch you currently own.
Grain and Color. Are you drawn closer? Make an initial
assessment of the grain or figure. Is it interesting at this distance
or does the piece seem flat?
5 ft: Do the elements of the piece captivate you?
Wood. Look carefully at the grain and the pattern.
Is the grain pattern used to enhance the design? Consider the figure,
does the surface have depth?
Top, Edges and Legs. Is the top a showpiece or afterthought?
Are there inlay or marquetry accents? Are the edges curvaceous or
flat? Are the legs complimentary to the piece or purely functional?
Hardware. From this distance, is the hardware an
enhancement or detraction? Have the drawer and door pulls, feet or
plaques been designed and finished specifically for the piece of
furniture? Is the patina well-suited to the furniture color? Do the
shape and form add definition and character without drawing your
eye away from the whole?
  
Close up: Does the detail seal the deal?Integrity. Kick the tires. Will the construction meet your performance
expectations? Do the drawers have good fit and smooth glide? Are the
shelves easily adjustable and able to bear weight? Are the hinges and
pulls sturdy and well attached?
The Finish. The finish is a critical material as
well as a process, used together to prepare, color and protect the
piece. Inquire as to its qualities (such as durability, scratch resistance
and aging). How thoroughly the piece has been finished? Touch the surfaces. How
does the piece feel? Glance at the back and, if possible, underneath.
Careful Construction. Do you have the impression
that the piece was hand-built or came out of a mold? Does that matter
to you? How much of a handmade look do you want? Where is it interesting
that there are variations‚and what elements would you like
to be exact and perfect?
(En)durablity. Evaluate the “How-Will-It-Look-In-The-Morning” issue.
Will the piece be passé by next year? By next decade? As your
style evolves, will it grow with you?
Notwithstanding the preceding, the only relevant relationship is between
you and the piece. So, go with your heart (with critical support from
your eye at 20, 5 and 1.)
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