Buying Furniture in the Philippines: 5 things to you should know

Setting up a comfortable home is one of the first things many expats focus on when moving to the Philippines. Whether you’re furnishing a rental unit or buying furniture for a new home, this guide will walk you through the key aspects of purchasing furniture in the Philippines.

1. Where to Buy Furniture in the Philippines

Local Furniture Stores

Local stores offer affordable and readily available options for basic furniture needs.

• Popular Stores:
  • SM Home : A one-stop shop for home essentials.
  • AllHome : Known for its wide selection of furniture and decor.
  • Handyman : Offers basic furniture pieces and storage solutions.
• Pros: Affordable, accessible in malls and commercial areas.
• Cons: Limited customization and often mass-produced designs.

High-End Furniture Stores

For expats looking for premium quality or designer furniture, there are several high-end options.

• Popular Stores:
  • Crate & Barrel : Offers modern, stylish, and imported furniture.
  • Pottery Barn : Known for elegant and timeless designs.
  • Our Home : A mid-range to premium option for contemporary furniture.
• Pros: High quality, stylish designs.
• Cons: Higher price points.

Local Craftsmen and Custom Furniture

The Philippines is known for its skilled craftsmen and artisans who create custom-made furniture using local materials like rattan, bamboo, and hardwood.

• Where to Look:
  • Cebu (especially Mandaue) for high-quality wood and rattan furniture.
  • Pampanga for wood carvings and furniture.
  • Davao for locally crafted pieces.
• Pros: Unique, customizable, supports local artisans.
• Cons: Longer production time, higher cost for customization.

Online Platforms

If you prefer shopping online, several platforms offer a wide selection of furniture with delivery options.

• Popular Platforms:
  • Lazada and Shopee : Affordable options for ready-to-assemble furniture.
  • Furniture Manila : Specializes in furniture with nationwide delivery.
  • Urban Concepts : Offers modern and functional designs.
• Pros: Convenient, wide range of styles and prices.
• Cons: Limited ability to inspect quality before purchase.

2. Types of Furniture Available

Locally-Sourced Furniture

• Materials: Rattan, bamboo, hardwood (e.g., mahogany, acacia).
• Best For: Expats seeking eco-friendly and tropical designs.

Imported Furniture

• Materials: Particleboard, metal, and fabric upholstery.
• Best For: Modern, minimalist, or Western-style homes.

Pre-Owned Furniture

Buying secondhand furniture can save money and contribute to sustainability.

• Where to Look:
  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Local buy-and-sell groups
  • Garage sales
• Pros: Cost-effective, quick availability.
• Cons: May require repairs or cleaning.

3. Tips for Buying Furniture in the Philippines

1. Measure Your Space:
   • Ensure the furniture fits your space and can be delivered through tight hallways or staircases.
2. Consider the Climate:
   • Opt for materials resistant to humidity and termites. Hardwood and rattan are excellent choices for tropical conditions.
3. Negotiate Prices:
   • Bargaining is common, especially when buying from local markets or craftsmen.
4. Delivery and Assembly:
   • Check if the store provides delivery and assembly services, as these can save time and effort.
5. Inspect Before Buying:
   • For in-store purchases, check for defects, durability, and quality.
6. Sustainability:
   • Support local artisans and eco-friendly options to reduce your environmental footprint.

4. Cost of Furniture in the Philippines

• Basic Furniture: PHP 1,000 – PHP 10,000 (e.g., tables, chairs).
• Mid-Range Furniture: PHP 10,000 – PHP 50,000 (e.g., sofas, beds).
• High-End or Custom Furniture: PHP 50,000 and above.

5. Shipping and Moving Furniture

If you’re relocating within the Philippines or importing furniture, logistics companies can help.

• Local Delivery: Many stores offer delivery within major cities.
• Shipping Between Islands: Use services like LBC or 2GO for inter-island transport.
• Importing Furniture: Check customs regulations and fees for international shipments

Conclusion 

Buying furniture in the Philippines can be a rewarding experience, offering options ranging from budget-friendly basics to high-end custom pieces. By understanding the local market and knowing where to shop, expats can create a home that’s comfortable, stylish, and uniquely theirs. Whether you’re furnishing a temporary rental or a permanent residence, the Philippines has furniture solutions to suit every need.