Style Preferences and Criteria for Selection of Home Furnishings by Rural Families

Abstract

Research suggests that the criteria used in making decisions about home furnishings differ among various population segments. This study identifies stylistic preferences, degree of satisfaction, and factors influencing the selection of living-room furnishings for women in rural Illinois counties. The counties were delimited by two factors: there could be no major metropolitan area in the county and populations of towns were 2,500 or less. The findings reveal a high degree of stability in home-furnishings choices of the 336 women sampled. They were generally satisfied with the present style of their upholstered furniture and expressed no desire to change styles in the future. “Style and look” was consistently noted as the most important consideration in selecting sofas and chairs. “Influence of family and friends” was listed overwhelmingly as the least important consideration.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

M Allison Carll

M Allison Carll is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Environment at the University of Kentucky.