People need to relax. More importantly YOU need to relax. It is very important to your survival that the amount of stress you put on yourself be lowered and the amount of time you spend relaxing be increased.

One of the single best pieces of furniture to relax in is the almighty recliner.  A recliner is a piece of furniture, such as a large armchair or sofa, that can be adjusted into a reclining position by lowering the back of the piece and raising the footrest. A reclining chair can adjust to different levels from a slight incline, to lying almost flat.

But what type of recliner is right for you?

Stressless Recliners

Stressless recliners are perfect for a family with a fashionable home who want to maintain the home’s sleek style while still having a piece of furniture they can relax in and enjoy the day. Stressless Recliners come in two separate pieces: the reclining chair and a matching footstool to elevate your feet. The chair typically reclines to about 45 degrees and can come in either a high or low back. These recliners come in a whole range of fabrics and colors, allowing you to find the perfect match for your stylish home.

Massage Recliners

What they lack in style, they gain in extreme comfort.  Massage recliners are the ideal item for treatment of tired legs and backs. They come with a variety of massage types and many different reclining positions.  Your legs are cared for too as they include mechanisms to massage your feet, calves, and upper leg.  Typically, they are operated manually but sometimes offer pre-programmed massages for specific parts of your body.

Swivel Recliners

Swivel recliners are probably the most prevalent recliners today since they provide maximum comfort. The swivel base of the recliner allows it to turn in a 360-degree motion, allowing you to see all sides of the room without having to stand up. It reclines using a small lever, and has both a chair and an ottoman with a base that contains the swivel mechanism.  Pull the lever, lean back, kick your feet up and give yourself the much needed relaxation to recharge your batteries for the next day’s activities.

Sofa Recliners

Not to be left out, sofas can be made to recline as well. Many sofas are manufactured with reclining mechanisms of their own, giving your family or guests ultimate comfort in any occasion. Reclining sofas have backs that recline in at least two places and have a footrest which comes up as the back reclines. These can come in a variety of sizes and styles, giving them the ability to fit any kind of décor.

Whether it’s enjoying a good movie or after a long day’s work , visit your local PMD Furniture Direct ™ franchisee and shop their immense selection of reclining furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings Collection and give yourself the ultimate in relaxation!

But what exactly is a country or cottage-styled home?

Continuing with our design style theme, we will explore the different types of country and cottage designs, and how these styles are represented in homes across the U.S.

Emphasized by natural woods with deep finishes, Americana style homes are very simple when it comes to ornamentation but tend to have a very patriotic feel. Fabrics are muted colors and are adorned with starts and stripes. This style of home can be a perfect place to spend a Fourth of July or other patriotic holiday.

On the other hand, a Cottage-styled home typically has lots of wicker or iron pieces of furniture and gets its style from the natural surroundings that encompasses it. Cotton and linen fabrics found in the home will have a floral or checkered pattern giving the home an almost country like feel.

If you have ever visited  a home on the Great Lakes, then you probably know what a Classic Costal design is. Designed to look like a beach house, homes that are designed with a Costal look will embrace a relaxed approach and display nautical themes.

However, there are different variations to a Costal theme. Gulf Coast styles bring together Art Deco and vibrant colors, with wicker and rattan, sending you back in time to the ‘50s. Done correctly, Gulf Coast styled homes can be a very cool place to live or visit. Pacific Coast designed homes tend to be influenced heavily by Asian influence, and will be decorated in deep finishes with very comfortable fabrics.  Similar to the Classic Costal look, Atlantic Seaboard designed homes have louvers and shutters with a color palette similar to that of lighthouses.

Finally, Rustic and Lodge styled homes are designed with a rugged approach but still offer the bonus of relaxation. Earth tones are prevalent here, while exposed wood in very light finishes are adorned with Native American artwork, wood carvings and natured inspired accessories. Fabrics that line the beds and couches will usually have a hand-woven feel.

Whether its Rustic, Classic Coastal, or Country styled homes, visit your local PMD Furniture Direct ™ franchisee and shop their immense selection of cottage styled furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings Collection and give your home the vacation style feel you have been looking for!

Many times contemporary style is classified as a distinct style and doesn’t encompass other design styles. Commonly, and un-knowingly, people think furniture considered contemporary is something they are most likely to find in an upscale art gallery in New York city. What they fail to realize is that the word contemporary simply means “of the present time,” and this can encompass a broad range of designs.

If you are looking for a more straight line look and want to stay within the contemporary design, then look for pieces that are of Danish or Scandinavian design. Contemporary Scandinavian designers often use straight lines in their designs and leave their pieces unadorned and crafted of walnut and teak. Sometimes their pieces will have gentle curves, but these will not be at a premium.

The most common label for contemporary furniture is “Artsy” and is likely to be found in urban locations and lofts. This furniture often has flare and is extremely simple. Furniture pieces in this category are not always adorned with straight lines, but typically showcase curved lines to give them a unique look and shape. Leather and microfibers are usually the upholstery of choice in this case.

Finally, minimalist styled furniture takes the contemporary look to the extreme and is known for its use of straight lines. The Minimalist approach was inspired by Bauhaus design and puts emphasis on free space, functionality, and economical design. You won’t find a lot of furniture in a minimalistic room. Instead, you will find one of two pieces accompanied by a lot of space.

Whether its curvy lines or straight lined, urban or minimalistic, visit your local PMD Furniture Direct ™ franchisee and shop their immense selection of contemporary furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings Collection and give your home the fresh style you are looking for!

The type of cover you choose for your furniture is very important. Many fabrics come with anti-stain features or treatments to protect against spills and stains.  Microfiber repels moisture remarkably and comes in a dazzling array of colors and suede like finishes. Genuine leather can also be an excellent choice because of its durability and strength. Many leather finishes have a naturally distressed look that won’t show wear and tear over a period of time.  A sofa with a washable slipcover sofa also protects your investment during the messy years.

It’s almost guaranteed that at one time or another your kids will jump on your living room pieces, so make sure durability is high on your list of things to consider. The construction of the pieces play a huge role in the longevity of your furniture. Living room pieces should have a strong frame and high density cushions. Multiple furniture pieces like sofas, loveseats, and recliners can also be very beneficial. It gives you the luxury of rearranging your room as your beautiful family changes.

Visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to see how beautiful furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings® Collection meets your family’s needs.

1. Choose a room in your home where there will be few to no distractions from others. A lightly trafficked area is best like a bedroom or office area.  The main idea here is to create a personal and uncluttered place that inspires you to feel relaxed.

2. Focus on beauty when decorating. It doesn’t take a lot, but just a couple of objects. It can be a photo of a loved one, a candle, flower, or some type of memento that relaxes you. Something personal. Regardless of what the object is you choose, keep it simple when it comes to color. White and pure colors are usually the color of choice. A nice comfortable chair is also key. The idea is to be relaxed. Relaxing means putting your whole body in a comfortable state. What better reach that goal than a comfortable chair.

3. Stimulate your senses. Aroma and sounds enhance peaceful feeling in people. Some type of scented candle or table top waterfall for noise are usually the objects of choice,  but music can also play a huge role in achieving tranquility.

4. Take advantage of it. It is really pointless to set up an area and not use it. If you have a moment or you are by yourself, take advantage or the area you created. It’s not enough just to have the space available, it’s about taking the time out of your hectic workday and relaxing.

When trying to set up a tranquil room in your home, visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to purchase the items you need to find peace in your home.

This glossary will help you deciding and define the features you want in a sofa. You’ll find sofas at your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee in every style and design at prices to meet every budget!

Feet: Yes, a sofa has feet! Exposed feet are typically wood or metal. If you room is formal or contemporary, then you should lean in the direction of wooden feet. Modern styled sofas usually come with feet made of metals or other mixed materials.

Skirt: If you decide that you don’t want your sofa’s feet to show, there are many skirted options. Casual and traditional styled sofas often have skirts that can be pleated, gathered or tailored with matching or contrasting fabric patterns.

Arms: Arms can be high, low, wide, narrow, curved, or straight. Choose an arm style that you’re your body and your room’s use – will you be snoozing here, lying down to watch a movie, or serving tea? The arm height also influences the height of your end tables.

Back: The sofa back can be tightly stuffed, tufted or pillowed. Pillows can be attached, semi-attached or detached in matching or contrasting upholstery patterns. Contemporary sofas typically have a clean,, tight back while fluffy pillowed backs adorn casual designs.

Seat Cushions: Sofas have one to three seat cushions in a variety of fill  techniques and materials that greatly affect comfort, quality, durability and price.

Toss Pillows: Toss pillows are sometimes optional and other times included with a sofa. You can easily change the look of your room with different pillows in bright fabrics with fun or fanciful trims. Toss pillows are like jewelry for your sofa!

Next week we will continue with the size, fabric, and comfort of sofas and how they will complete your rooms design.

Visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to shop our vast selection of affordable, durable and beautiful furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings® Collection.

When deciding on what sofa to buy from your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee, you need to understand the different types of sofas so you can decide which one best suits your family.

Styles of Sofas

Standard: The standard sofa is typically the most common of the sofa family. It generally seats about three adults and is a stationary piece of furniture.

Sectional: For families who tend to host a lot of parties  or have a larger living room sectional sofas are usually the better choice. The larger sectionals usually come in a L or U shape and are perfect for having conversations.

Sleeper: If you are prone to having many overnight guests for holidays are other events, then a sleeper sofa is a must have. Sleeper sofas has a built in bed frame that pulls out from underneath the seat cushions.

Motion: Perfect for laying back and watching a ball game or movie with the family, motion sofas have built in recliners or rockers. This will give you a place to kick back and relax after long day.

Loveseat: The loveseat is much like its companion the sofa except for the fact that it is a bit smaller and can generally only seat about two adults. A loveseat is a perfect compliment to any sofa and can provide extra need seating space.

Next week we will continue with the different designs of sofas and how they will compliment your design style.

Visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to shop our vast selection of affordable, durable and beautiful furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings® Collection.

Cats are a great family pet. Their easy maintenance, sweet and loving nature, and great companionship can really add to your family’s home lifestyle. But one of the frustrations that come with having cats is your feline’s need to scratch, stretch, and flex their claws. This can lead to severely damaged furniture and leave you very frustrated.

Follow these steps to prevent your cat from scratching and preserve the look of the furniture you bought through your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee for a lifetime.

1. Put a scratching post in your cat’s favorite perch. Cats often like to enjoy the sun on their fur, so place a post by a window.
2. Find a post that best suits your cat. This may take a bit of experimenting on your part, but will be well worth it.
3. Research your cat’s breed to find what surfaces or textures they may prefer such as rugs, wood or cardboard.  You will also discover if they prefer a vertical or horizontal post.
4. Reward your kitty with a treat every time they use the post. This will create a desire in them to want to scratch the post instead of your PMD furniture.
5. Upon waking from a long nap, pick the cat up and place it near the post. Cats stretch and flex their claws after waking up.
6. Provide alternatives, not punishment, when your cat scratches the furniture. Punishment will only teach them to not do it when you are around.
7. Do not permit your cat to scratch any furniture, even if you plan on getting rid of an old piece. This will only teach them to scratch any and all furniture.
8. Finally, consult your local veterinarian about different treatment option before you give up.

Visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to shop our vast selection of affordable, durable and beautiful furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings® Collection that even your finicky feline will love.

The dirt that gathers on solid surfaces such as floors and tables is easy to see and clean. Consider that this same dirt and dust you clean from your end tables, often several times a week, has also settled on your upholstered furniture.  ‘

How can you properly spring clean your upholstery to keep it looking new?

• Vacuum all surfaces of your upholstered furniture including both sides of any removable cushions. Use your vacuum cleaners crevice tool and dust brush attachments to get into deep corners. Always use the dust brush on leather furniture so suction doesn’t damage the surface.
• Flip and rotate your cushions.  Turn your cushions over and rotate them to even out the wear and make the inner cushion and the fabric last longer. This should be done each month, not only in the spring.
• Rearrange your furniture. The ultraviolet rays from direct sunlight can fade fabric and leather, just like it damages your skin, depriving your furniture of its gorgeous look. Use window blinds or sheers on windows to minimize the sun rays.
• Massage your furniture. That’s right, start from the bottom of the arms and back and push the stuffing up, giving it a full look. This works air back into the synthetic fibers and keeps it nice and cushy.

Visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to shop our vast selection of affordable, durable and beautiful upholstered furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings® Collection!

How To Make Your Leather Furniture Last

Long considered a sign of luxury and quality, leather furniture is making its way into homes everywhere. More families purchase leather furniture based on the simple fact that leather lasts longer and is more durable than fabric. When properly cared for, leather furniture can last up to two decades longer than upholstery.

How can you make your leather furniture last?

• Read and follow your leather furniture’s care and cleaning instructions on the manufacturer’s label, which is often attached to the seat deck under the cushions or sewn to a cushion. Unsealed leather should be vacuumed regularly and wiped with a clean, damp cloth. Spills must be blotted immediately with a soft, dry cloth. Sealed leather furniture should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. Afterwards, dry the leather with a soft, clean cloth.
• Never use a cleaning solution not recommended by the manufacturer. Contact your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to purchase leather care products to properly clean your leather and preserve your warranty protection.
• Do not place your beautiful leather furniture in direct sunlight or within two feet of a heat source such as a fireplace, register or portable heater. Direct heat sources can cause your leather furniture to dry out, crack or stiffen. Cover windows with blinds or shades and rearrange your furniture regularly to prevent fading.

Visit your local PMD Furniture Direct™ franchisee to shop our vast selection of affordable, durable and beautiful leather furniture from the Royal Heritage Home Furnishings® Leather Collection!