Solid Wood

To start, you can never go wrong with solid woods, says Rob Natale, chief of design at Sixpenny. "Wood contains genuine character, a real history, and imperfections that can’t be created—[pieces that will] often outlive you," he says. "Plus, the wear itself becomes a part of the story, part of the charm."

Whit Barnes, president and director of sales at Wildwood, agrees, naming mahogany and teak as top contenders. However, he notes that wood quality can vary depending on its country of origin and finish. For example, "water based lacquered finishes on furniture are very durable," he says.

What makes domestic hardwoods one of the best materials is that they also hold up to everyday wear and tear and last a lifetime if maintained and treated properly, says Alex Geriner, founder of Doorman. "Furniture built from oak, walnut, cherry, and maple are great options for durability and quality," he adds. "Solid wood pieces will [outperform] MDF, particle board, or thin veneered furniture."

Durable Metals

Which other materials can withstand heavy traffic? "Steel and high quality aluminum are great options for sturdy, quality metal furniture. This applies to both indoors and out," Geriner says. "Galvanized iron and stainless steel are [also] the most used and the most accessible and durable metals," Barnes adds.

Plus, Barnes and Geriner both agree that powder-coated metals tend to be the most sturdy. For a playful twist, Geriner also loves "fun and quirky powder coated colors." He also recommends looking for "patina-ed metal finishes that will age and tarnish overtime," adding, "who doesn't love an unlacquered brass or bronze finish that will age and deepen with color as the years roll by?"

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Heavy-Duty Fabrics

When it comes to upholstery, our experts agree quality and resilience are key. For example, Barnes opts for high quality canvas, performance fabrics, and real, ethically sourced cowhide leather. "Leather is a beautiful option that will last forever and does a great job of aging gracefully," Geriner adds. But if leather isn't in your budget, you can still scout faux alternatives made from plant-based materials like bamboo and cactus instead. "These vegan leather options are often just as durable and a lot less money than actual leather," Geriner explains.

Plus, upholstery fabrics have become much more durable than they used to be. "You can practically hose down your bar stools these days if your kid smears PB&J on them," says Geriner, who recently collaborated with Camira Fabrics—a supplier that creates textiles from recycled ocean plastics.

Beyond durability and sustainability, how easily you can care for your upholstered furniture at home may also influence your purchasing decision. Natale encourages sourcing natural fibers. "[Look for] linens and cottons that get softer with age, are completely free of harsh chemicals (which are often used to coat fabrics), and can be cared for at home," he says.

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Other Signs a Furniture Piece Is Well-Made

Examine the Small Details

"From hinges, to screws, to back-plates on sconces and kick-plates on chairs–the small details are what really separate a piece of furniture or lighting that lasts a lifetime or more, from something that should be disposed after a few years," Barnes says.

Feel and Touch the Piece

"You can tell by the weight, by how solid it feels, or how the drawers and doors open and close. If it's an old piece and it's still around, then that's a good sign," Geriner says. Plus, if a piece is built from solid wood, it will likely come at a higher price point—often a sound indicator of quality craftsmanship.

Analyze the Piece's Composition

"If you’re considering purchasing something made of wood, give a look to the piece’s composition. Engineered wood, MDF, particle board, and even some veneers are red flags for me," Natale says. "I like to get a sense for a piece’s weight. While not a foolproof sign, it’s an easy way to quickly distinguish whether a piece is made using quality materials and features proper construction details under the hood. Manufactured woods, veneers, faux stone, etc, all tend to be significantly lighter and often don’t last as long as a result. Whether it’s a sofa or a table, I don’t want the thing to budge when I bump into it," he says.