We chose to review Design Within Reach (DWR) because they are the gatekeepers of "authentic" modern design in America. They don't just sell sofas; they sell history. My team and I wanted to see if these museum-quality pieces are actually comfortable to live with, or if you're just paying for the designer's name. We gained access to their most iconic collections in a controlled studio environment. We didn't just look at them. We sat, lounged, and analyzed every stitch.
My testing team consists of six individuals with high standards for both aesthetics and ergonomics. I am Chris Miller, the lead reviewer. I worked alongside Marcus, Carlos, Mia, Jenna, Jamal, and Ethan. We also consulted Dr. Adrian Walker. He provided expert insights on the ergonomic support of these often low-profile, structured frames. We examined the joinery. We tested the fabric durability. We sat for hours. We napped. We critiqued the foam density.
Our workflow was rigorous and respectful of the high price points. We simulated high-end living scenarios. We timed the white-glove delivery setup. We noted the weight and solidity of the construction. We then rotated through specific usage scenarios. These included formal entertaining, deep relaxation, and architectural appreciation. We paid attention to seat depth and back height. We tracked how the cushions maintained their crisp lines. This review details our honest, hands-on findings.
Product Overview
| Sofa Model | Pros | Cons | Ideal For | Price (Approx) | Overall Score |
| Kelp Sofa | Stunning sculptural design, velvet feel | Very firm seat, low back | Design lovers, formal rooms | $3,500+ | 4.5 |
| Reid Sofa | Deep lounging comfort, classic lines | Cushions require fluffing | Media rooms, relaxation | $3,000+ | 4.6 |
| Como Sofa | Luxurious depth, chrome legs | Low back offers minimal support | Modern lofts, lounging | $5,000+ | 4.7 |
| Raleigh Sofa | Mid-century wood frame, structured | Wood arms are hard | Mid-century enthusiasts | $4,000+ | 4.4 |
| Nebula Nine Sofa | Cloud-like softness, oversized | Massive footprint, very casual | Large open spaces | $6,000+ | 4.5 |
| Story Bookcase Sofa | Built-in storage, unique utility | Very upright and firm | Small apartments, readers | $2,800+ | 4.2 |
Design Within Reach Sofas Comparison Chart
| Feature | Kelp | Reid | Como | Raleigh | Nebula Nine | Story |
| Design Style | Organic Sculptural | Transitional Modern | Italian Minimalist | Mid-Century Wood | Oversized Cloud | Functional Modern |
| Seat Depth | 24" | 25" | 29" (Deep) | 22" | 30" (Very Deep) | 21" |
| Seat Height | 16.5" | 17" | 15.5" (Low) | 17" | 15" (Low) | 18" |
| Cushion Fill | High-Resiliency Foam | Down/Feather Wrap | Polyurethane/Down | Foam/Fiber | Down/Polyurethane | High-Density Foam |
| Fabric Type | Velvet | Fabric / Leather | Fabric / Leather | Fabric / Leather | Linen / Cotton | Fabric |
| Leg Style | Hidden | Wood Block | Polished Metal | Solid Wood Frame | Hidden | Wood Legs |
| Frame Material | Kiln-Dried Hardwood | Hardwood | Steel / Wood | Solid Walnut/Oak | Wood | Wood / Veneer |
| Special Feature | Curved organic shape | Down-filled armrests | Floating appearance | Exposed wood frame | "Cloud" comfort | Built-in bookcase |
What We Tested and How We Tested It
We established a strict testing protocol for these luxury DWR sofas. The primary focus was the balance between artistic intent and livability. We evaluated the construction quality, checking for solid wood frames versus engineered materials. We tested the "sit" duration—how long we could stay comfortable without shifting. We inspected the upholstery alignment, ensuring patterns matched at seams.
Comfort testing involved distinct user scenarios. We sat upright to mimic formal conversation. We reclined to simulate reading or relaxing. We lay flat to test napping potential. We assessed the "sink" factor versus the structural rebound. We checked if the low profiles common in modern design forced awkward knee angles. We invited testers of different heights to sit simultaneously. This helped us gauge the ergonomic fit.
Durability and craftsmanship were critical. We examined the exposed wood finishes on the Raleigh for smoothness. We checked the metal legs on the Como for scratches. We sat on the edges to test frame rigidity. We measured cushion compression after simulated heavy use. We evaluated how the premium fabrics handled light friction. This data formed the basis of our scores.
Testing Team Takeaways
I found the Como sofa to be the epitome of "low and lounge." It is stunning but requires a specific lifestyle—one where you don't mind needing core strength to stand up. The Reid was the surprise comfort winner; it felt like a high-end version of a traditional family sofa. The Kelp is a sculpture you can sit on, beautiful but strict.
Marcus Reed focused on the structural integrity. “The Raleigh frame is a masterpiece,” he noted. He loved the solid walnut feel. He found the Story sofa ingenious for its storage but too upright for relaxing. He preferred the Nebula Nine for its massive, enveloping comfort, even if it swallowed him whole.
Carlos Alvarez analyzed the posture support. He praised the Story sofa. “It keeps me perfectly upright for reading,” he stated. He found the Como too deep for working. He had to slouch to reach the backrest. He appreciated the firmness of the Kelp. It kept his hips stable. He disliked the low seat height of the Nebula Nine.
Mia Chen loved the Kelp. She curled up in the curve. “It feels like a velvet shell,” she said. She liked the organic shape. She found the Raleigh armrests too hard. She needed a pillow. She enjoyed the deep seat of the Como. She could sit cross-legged easily.
Jenna Brooks and Ethan Cole tested the couple suitability. They found the Nebula Nine amazing for movie nights. “We can lay side-by-side with room to spare,” Jenna noted. They liked the shared space. Ethan noted the Reid cushions needed fluffing to keep their shape. They agreed the Raleigh was better for sitting and talking than cuddling.
Jamal Davis had issues with the seat height. The Como and Nebula Nine were very low. “I feel like I’m on the floor,” he joked. He loved the depth of the Como. It supported his long legs. He found the Story sofa too shallow. His knees hung over the edge. He advised tall users to check the seat height specs carefully.
Design Within Reach Sofas: Our Testing Experience
Kelp Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
I started with the Kelp. It looks like it grew from the ocean floor. The velvet is lush. I sat down. It is firm. Very firm. The foam is molded to the shape. I sat upright. It felt formal. The curve wraps around you slightly. I read a magazine here. It felt chic.
Mia Chen was drawn to it. “It’s a statement,” she said. She sat sideways. The curve supported her back nicely. She liked that it didn't have loose cushions to mess up. She noted the seat height was accessible for her 5'4" frame.
Marcus Reed tried to lounge. He couldn't getting comfortable. “It’s too rigid,” he said. He felt like he was on display. He noted the construction was solid. No creaks. Dr. Adrian Walker noted the fixed posture. He said it encourages a neutral spine but lacks pressure relief for long durations.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Stunning organic sculptural design | Very firm, rigid seating |
| High-quality velvet upholstery | Not suitable for napping |
| Unique visual statement | Fixed shape limits lounging |
| Compact footprint | Low back offers minimal support |
Details:
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Price: $3,500+
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Dimensions: 93" W x 36" D x 28" H
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Seat Depth: 24"
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Seat Height: 16.5"
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Velvet
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Assembly: Legs Only
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.0 | Firm elegance; not for sinking. |
| Back Support | 4.2 | Good lumbar curve. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.5 | Standard depth fits most. |
| Cooling | 4.2 | Velvet can be warm. |
| Durability | 4.8 | Molded foam holds shape. |
| Overall | 4.5 | Best for art-forward living spaces. |
Reid Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Reid is the "normal" sofa of the group. It looks classic. I sat down. It is soft. The down-wrapped cushions hissed as I sank. It felt luxurious but familiar. I watched a show here. I was very comfortable. The armrests are padded. I rested my head on one.
Jenna Brooks loved it. “This is a forever couch,” she said. She liked the balance of support and softness. She noted the cushions wrinkled after sitting. She had to fluff them.
Ethan Cole sat in the corner. He felt supported. He liked the wood block legs. They felt sturdy. He noted the seat depth was generous but not overwhelming. Dr. Adrian Walker praised the ergonomics. He said the down wrap reduces pressure points effectively.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Classic, timeless design | Down cushions need daily fluffing |
| Luxurious down-wrapped comfort | Fabric wrinkles easily |
| Padded arms are great for napping | Standard look lacks "wow" factor |
| Versatile for any decor | Expensive for a basic shape |
Details:
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Price: $3,000+
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Dimensions: 86" W x 38" D x 32" H
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Seat Depth: 25"
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Seat Height: 17"
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Soft
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric: Performance Weave / Leather
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Assembly: Legs Only
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.8 | Perfect blend of soft and supportive. |
| Back Support | 4.5 | Loose cushions adjust well. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.6 | Fits a wide range of users. |
| Cooling | 4.4 | Breathable fabrics available. |
| Durability | 4.6 | High quality construction. |
| Overall | 4.6 | The safest, most comfortable choice. |
Como Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Como is Italian cool. It floats on metal legs. I sat down. It is deep. 29 inches deep. I had to scoot back. I pulled my legs up. It is a lounge sofa. The cushions are soft but resilient. I felt very stylish sitting here. The chrome legs reflect the floor.
Jamal Davis sat down. “This fits my legs,” he said. He stretched out. He liked the depth. However, he found it hard to get out of. The 15.5-inch seat height is low. He had to rock forward.
Carlos Alvarez tried to work. He couldn't. “I’m too reclined,” he noted. He had to put a pillow behind his back. He admired the clean lines. Dr. Adrian Walker noted the deep seat. He advised shorter users to use extra pillows to prevent slouching.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Stunning Italian minimalist design | Very deep seat forces lounging |
| Luxurious deep comfort | Low seat height (15.5") |
| High-quality metal legs | Hard to sit upright for work |
| Looks light and airy | Wide footprint |
Details:
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Price: $5,000+
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Dimensions: 90" W x 41" D x 27" H
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Seat Depth: 29"
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Seat Height: 15.5"
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Soft
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Frame Material: Steel / Wood
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Fabric: Leather / Fabric
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Assembly: Legs
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.7 | Amazing for lounging. |
| Back Support | 3.8 | Low back limits upper support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.8 | Deep and spacious. |
| Cooling | 4.5 | Raised legs allow airflow. |
| Durability | 4.7 | Steel frame is solid. |
| Overall | 4.7 | Best for modern lofts. |
Raleigh Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Raleigh is mid-century modern perfected. The exposed wood frame is beautiful. I ran my hand along the walnut arm. It is smooth. I sat down. It is structured. The seat is firm. The back is upright. I felt proper. I drank coffee here.
Marcus Reed loved the wood. “This is real craftsmanship,” he said. He leaned on the arm. It is hard wood. He needed a pillow to get comfortable. He liked the visual openness of the slat back.
Jenna Brooks found it a bit rigid. “It’s beautiful but hard,” she said. She sat in the middle. She liked the support. She felt it was better for a formal living room than a TV room. Dr. Adrian Walker praised the firm seat. He said it offers excellent pelvic stability.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Beautiful exposed wood frame | Hard wood arms |
| Excellent structural support | Firm seating feel |
| Timeless mid-century aesthetic | Not for lounging/napping |
| Visually interesting from all angles | Cushions can slide on wood slat base |
Details:
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Price: $4,000+
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Dimensions: 84" W x 36" D x 30" H
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Seat Depth: 22"
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Seat Height: 17"
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Solid Walnut/Oak
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Fabric: Fabric / Leather
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Assembly: Legs
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.2 | Firm and structured. |
| Back Support | 4.6 | Great upright support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.4 | Standard depth. |
| Cooling | 4.7 | Open frame breathes well. |
| Durability | 4.8 | Solid wood lasts forever. |
| Overall | 4.4 | Best for mid-century purists. |
Nebula Nine Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Nebula Nine is a cloud. It is huge. I sat down and sank. Deeply. It is filled with down. It feels decadent. I lay back. I could sleep here for days. It is very casual. The linen cover looks rumpled on purpose.
Ethan Cole loved it. “This is the ultimate chill couch,” he said. He sat with Jenna. They had so much room. He noted it was hard to get out of. It grabs you.
Carlos Alvarez found it too messy. “It looks unmade,” he noted. He tried to work. Impossible. He sank in too much. He said it is strictly for a media room or basement. Dr. Adrian Walker noted the lack of structure. He warned it offers zero ergonomic support for active sitting.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Incredible cloud-like softness | Takes up massive space |
| Deepest, most relaxing seat | Very hard to stand up from |
| Removable linen covers | Always looks rumpled/messy |
| Perfect for napping | Zero upright support |
Details:
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Price: $6,000+
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Dimensions: 110" W x 43" D x 24" H
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Seat Depth: 30"
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Seat Height: 15"
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Cushion Firmness: Soft
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Frame Material: Wood
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Fabric: Linen / Cotton
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Assembly: Feet
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.8 | Pure luxury softness. |
| Back Support | 3.5 | Minimal; all pillow. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.8 | Massive depth. |
| Cooling | 4.2 | Linen is cool; sink traps heat. |
| Durability | 4.4 | Cover is washable; fill settles. |
| Overall | 4.5 | The ultimate luxury lounge pit. |
Story Bookcase Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Story is unique. It has shelves built into the back and sides. I put books in it. It is clever. I sat down. It is compact and firm. The seat is shallow. I sat upright. It felt like a reading nook. I reached back and grabbed a book. It worked perfectly.
Mia Chen liked the utility. “It saves space in a small apartment,” she said. She liked the tidy look. She found the seat a bit hard. She added a throw pillow.
Marcus Reed sat on it. He felt it was too small. “My knees are way out,” he said. He liked the concept but felt the comfort was secondary to the storage. Dr. Adrian Walker praised the upright posture. He said it is excellent for reading without neck strain.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Built-in storage saves space | Very firm and upright |
| Unique functional design | Shallow seat depth |
| Great for small apartments | Not for lounging |
| Sturdy construction | Boxy aesthetic |
Details:
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Price: $2,800+
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Dimensions: 84" W x 36" D x 30" H
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Seat Depth: 21"
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Seat Height: 18"
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Wood Veneer
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Fabric: Fabric
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Assembly: Legs/Shelves
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Seat Comfort | 4.0 | Firm and functional. |
| Back Support | 4.5 | Excellent vertical support. |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.0 | Tight for taller users. |
| Cooling | 4.4 | Standard breathability. |
| Durability | 4.6 | Solid build. |
| Overall | 4.2 | Best for readers and small spaces. |
Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas
| Sofa | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling / Breathability | Durability | Ease of Movement |
| Kelp | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.8 | 4.5 |
| Reid | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.2 |
| Como | 4.7 | 4.7 | 3.8 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 3.8 |
| Raleigh | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.2 |
| Nebula Nine | 4.5 | 4.8 | 3.5 | 4.8 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 3.5 |
| Story | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 |
The Como wins for modern luxury and lounging. It is the coolest sofa. The Reid is the best all-rounder for comfort. The Nebula Nine is the comfort king but niche. The Kelp and Raleigh are for design purists. The Story is a problem solver.
Best Picks
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Best Overall DWR Sofa: Reid Sofa
The Reid takes the top spot. It balances classic comfort with modern lines. Chris and Jenna agreed it is the most livable sofa in the collection, fitting almost any home or lifestyle.
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Best Modern Design DWR Sofa: Como Sofa
The Como earns the design award. Jamal loved the deep seat and floating look. If you have a modern loft and want to lounge in style, this is the definitive choice.
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Best Artistic Statement DWR Sofa: Kelp Sofa
The Kelp is the art winner. Mia loved the organic shape. It transforms a room from boring to architectural instantly.
How to Choose the DWR Sofas?
Choosing a DWR sofa is an investment decision.
First, consider your lifestyle. If you have kids and pets, the Reid in leather or performance fabric is safe. The Nebula Nine linen cover is washable but high maintenance.
Next, measure your space. The Nebula Nine and Como are massive deep sofas. They need room to breathe. The Kelp and Story fit smaller footprints perfectly.
Think about usage. If you watch movies, get the Reid or Nebula Nine. They are soft. If you entertain formally, get the Raleigh or Kelp. They keep guests upright.
Finally, choose the vibe. Raleigh is warm mid-century. Como is cool Italian. Kelp is organic future.
Limitations
DWR sofas have limitations. The price is high. You are paying for the designer name and original manufacturing rights. The lead times can be long for custom fabrics. The low seat heights on the modern models (Como, Nebula) are difficult for some users. The firmness of the "design" pieces (Kelp, Raleigh) might surprise those used to plush American sofas.
Is the DWR Sofa worth it?
The DWR sofa lineup is worth it for specific buyers.
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Design Aficionados: You get the authentic original design, not a knock-off.
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Quality Seekers: The materials (solid walnut, steel, high-resiliency foam) are top tier.
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Long-Term Owners: These styles hold their value and look.
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Trade-off: You pay 3-4x the price of a standard sofa.
If you value authenticity, design history, and build quality, DWR is the gold standard.
FAQs
1. Why are DWR sofas so expensive?
You are paying for authentic designs, often licensed from the original designers or their estates. The materials and craftsmanship are also premium quality.
2. Is the Nebula Nine cover washable?
Yes, the linen covers are usually removable and can be dry cleaned or washed carefully. It is designed to look lived-in.
3. Do the cushions on the Reid sag?
They contain down, so they will settle. Daily fluffing is required to keep them looking crisp. The foam core prevents total collapse.
4. Can I customize the size?
Many models like the Reid and Como come in various lengths and sectional configurations. You can usually choose from a wide range of fabrics.
5. How hard is assembly?
Very easy. DWR typically offers white-glove delivery, so they assemble it for you. If you do it yourself, it's usually just legs.
6. Is the Raleigh comfortable without pillows?
It is firm. The wood arms are hard. We recommend adding throw pillows for comfort if you plan to lounge.
7. Does the velvet on the Kelp wear well?
High-quality velvet is durable. It may crush slightly over time, developing a patina, which is considered part of the charm.
8. Is the Story sofa good for sleeping?
No. It is too short and narrow. It is a sitting sofa.
9. Do they come with a warranty?
Yes, typically a 1-year warranty on manufacturer defects, but the build quality usually lasts much longer.
10. Is the Como too low for tall people?
The seat height is low (15.5"), but the depth (29") is great for tall legs. Getting up is the hard part.