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| - Please note that I have only shopped at DWR in the U.S., but based on my visit to the Toronto store I am pretty sure the buying experience will be the same here (all of their furniture is shipped out of the same distributing centre).
DWR has been getting a lot of criticisms from the average consumer about it not being within reach (pricewise), but you really have to look at its context.
I really appreciate high quality modern classics such as Knoll, Herman Miller, Cassina, Artemide, etc. but buying directly from them or through selected authorized dealers could be obscenely expensive.
This is where DWR comes in. They sell furniture from Knoll and Herman Miller much cheaper than directly from the company, but often you could not custom order specific finishes or upholstery which you normally can (you are limited to a handful of color/finish/material choices). Also because of this turnaround/delivery times are much shorter.
Over the years DWR has introduced lower priced, but still high quality European made furniture designed by respected young designers. So they have anything from a $150 to a $2000 bar stool, which I think is within reach to a wide range of consumers.
Sure I have done some serious damage to my credit card at DWR a number of times, but the furniture I have bought from them are the highest quality, stands the test of time, and some of my most enjoyed pieces. I think it is unfortunate that our culture still sees value in disposable furnishings (such as IKEA, etc.). I would rather buy a $1000 chair that feels good, looks good and last a lifetime rather than a $100 chair that would look tired and/or fall apart after a few years. This is what I think is value, especially when it could retain its value over its lifetime (you could always sell it at a good price if you need to part with it).
Anyways, enough of my preaching. As DWR does not carry any inventory in their studios everything is shipped directly to your home. They also offer the best customer service, so if anything goes wrong they will do everything they can to make you happy.
If you are serious about furniture and design, then DWR is definitely the store for you.
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