Buying Italian furniture in Ghana: what to know before you order
Should I buy from a showroom or order from Italy?
A piece already in Accra can be seen in person, in daylight, and sat on before you decide. There is no shipping wait and no surprise in the colour of the fabric.
Ordering from a maker lets you choose the size, fabric and finish, but you buy from a sample and wait for the piece to be made and shipped.
At Ferri Home every piece on the floor is the only one we hold, so when it is gone it is gone.
How long does made-to-order Italian furniture take to reach Accra?
Most made-to-order pieces from Italian makers take a few months to make, and sea freight from Italy to Tema and customs clearance add several more weeks. Ask for a written lead time before you pay a deposit, and plan any deadline, such as moving in or a family event, around it.
What should I check on a luxury sofa or chair?
The frame: ask what it is made of and how it is joined. The seat: sit for a few minutes, not a few seconds. The fabric: ask for its name, its composition and its care code. The stitching: seams should be straight and patterns should line up across cushions.
Look underneath if you can. The underside of a well-made piece is finished with the same care as the parts you see.
How do I know a piece is genuine?
Ask which house made the piece and for its model name. Authentic designer pieces usually carry a maker label or stamp, and the seller should be able to tell you where it came from.
What should be included in the price?
Ask whether the price includes delivery, carrying the piece into the room, assembly and removal of the packaging. For made-to-order pieces, ask how the deposit works and what happens if the delivery date moves.
