Fix-It Furniture

M

istakes happen to the best of us. In the interior design industry, you need to expect the unexpected: delays and defective products can happen, even if you’ve done everything perfectly. Asking for references for top-notch vendors is integral prior to ordering, and getting creative in the way we resolve deficiencies is a fundamental, too. Here are five reader-submitted mishaps, and practical insights on how to fix them.

I ordered a comfy, practical couch after years of relaxing on our lumpy sofa, and we were thrilled! Upon delivery, though, there was absolutely no way to fit it through our tight, European elevator — and we live on a high floor! —Chavie R

This is a mistake that even the most experienced designers make. When ordering large furniture, check that it will fit every doorway it passes through to get it to its designated spot. This problem can sometimes be resolved in the following ways:

> Removing the legs to fit through tight spaces.