Replica furniture may seem like an attractive alternative to high-end designer pieces, offering similar aesthetics at a fraction of the price. And while there are varying degrees of quality among replicas (some are crafted with good materials and craftsmanship, making them harder to distinguish from the originals), the low-cost imitations that flood the market, not only compromise on design integrity but also raise ethical, environmental, and quality concerns.
Quality and craftsmanship
One of the defining characteristics of designer furniture is the superior craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Original designs undergo rigorous testing and are constructed with premium materials to ensure both aesthetic and functional longevity. While some replicas can be well-made, most producers cut corners on quality, construction, and finishing, often resulting in wobbly frames, poorly stitched upholstery, and fragile structures that fail to stand the test of time.
Hans Wegner Wishbone Chairs sold by Distinkt on Bazaa
Environmental impact
Authentic designer furniture is crafted with durability and sustainability in mind, using high-quality materials and meticulous techniques to ensure longevity. In contrast, replicas are typically made with cheaper materials that wear down quickly, leading to a higher turnover rate and contributing to landfill waste. Additionally, many imitation pieces are mass-produced in facilities with little regard for sustainable practices, further exacerbating their environmental footprint.
No.18 bentwood chair by Thonet sold by Composition on Bazaa
Ethical concerns: fair wages and labor conditions
The lower price tag of replica furniture often comes at a hidden cost: unfair labor conditions. While some manufacturers of higher-quality replicas adhere to ethical workplace standards, the reality is that many low-cost imitations are produced in factories where workers are underpaid and exposed to unsafe conditions. In contrast, authentic designer furniture is priced not only for its craftsmanship and quality materials but also for the fair wages and ethical treatment of the artisans and skilled workers who create them. Choosing genuine pieces helps support responsible production practices and ensures that the people behind the design are fairly compensated for their expertise.
Tan leather Eames high back lounge chair and foot stool sold by Vampt on Bazaa
Legal concerns: copyright and intellectual property
Another important reason behind the higher price tag of designer furniture is the need to pay the rightful owners of the original design their fair share for the invention. Indeed, many designer furniture pieces are protected by copyright and intellectual property laws, ensuring that the designers and manufacturers receive due credit and compensation for their work. Replica manufacturers often bypass these legal protections, profiting off original creators' designs without contributing to innovation.
Mid Century Barstools by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe sold by The Artz Collection on Bazaa
How to recognise authentic designer furniture
For those looking to invest in genuine designer furniture, there are key indicators to ensure authenticity. Firstly, genuine pieces often feature a manufacturer's stamp, label, or engraving with the manufacturer’s details, and sometimes even the designer’s signature. In addition, the materials used in high-end furniture are typically premium woods, metals, and fabrics, which feel substantial and refined compared to the lightweight, synthetic materials found in replicas. Furthermore, the construction quality stands out: pay attention to craftsmanship details like joinery, upholstery stitching, and overall finishing, which are usually far superior in authentic pieces.
Cassina LC3 Leather Sofa by Le Cobusier sold by Nordic Shop on Bazaa
Why buy authentic second-hand designer furniture?
While investing in authentic pieces may seem expensive, second-hand designer furniture offers a smart and sustainable alternative. At Bazaa, we understand the importance of quality and authenticity, which is why we carefully verify every piece before listing it. Our trusted sellers often refurbish and reupholster designer items, ensuring they retain their integrity and sometimes even enhancing their condition.
Buying second-hand means you can own high-quality furniture that has already proven its durability, all at a fraction of the cost of a new designer piece. And now you no longer have to scour auctions or fairs to find these treasures: you can browse an expertly curated selection of designer pieces from the comfort of your home with Bazaa.