What’s the Difference?
Customers looking for upscale outdoor furniture often choose brands like West Elm and Restoration Hardware. While both retailers specialize in luxury home goods, there are many differences between West Elm and Restoration Hardware. Comparing these factors may help you decide which vendor will work best for you.
West Elm | Restoration Hardware | |
Locations | 100+ stores in the U.S., Canada, Australia & U.K. | Around 70 galleries & 30 outlets in the U.S. & Canada |
Selections | Living, dining & bedrooms, home office, decor, lighting, bath, rugs, patio sets, etc. | Living, dining & bedrooms, decor, lighting, bath, rugs, art, patio sets, etc. |
Styles | Modern, contemporary, mid-century, industrial, etc. | Contemporary, classic, rustic, glam, modern, coastal, etc. |
Returns | 30-day return policy with some exclusions | 30-day return policy with some exclusions |
Delivery | In-home delivery & standard shipping available | In-home delivery & standard shipping available |
Stores and Showrooms
Both West Elm and Restoration Hardware have a strong online presence, making them convenient shopping options for those who like browsing furniture and decor from the comfort of their own homes. However, if trying out furniture before making a purchase is important to you, you’ll need to find out which store is closest to your area.
West Elm
Part of the Williams-Sonoma brand, West Elm has over 100 U.S. stores as well as locations in Canada, Australia, and the U.K. Since the brand also partners with and promotes local and global artisans, West Elm furniture collections and products are available to customers around the world.
Restoration Hardware
Restoration Hardware, also known as RH, operates approximately 70 galleries and has over 30 outlets across the United States and Canada. Many showrooms offer additional perks like wine bars, restaurants, and in-house design services. RH also has global partners that help design and distribute many of its products.
Furniture Style & Selection
Whether you need pieces for the kitchen, bedroom, den or patio, you can find the furnishings you’re looking for at West Elm and Restoration Hardware. While each retailer offers decor items for the whole home, the stylish selections at these two stores vary. Depending on what chic look you’re going for, only one store may have the items you need.
West Elm
West Elm’s collection showcases contemporary curves and sleek frames to suit both industrial and mid-century design styles. You can select specific fabric types and colors for most of the brand’s upholstered pieces to ensure that they complement your decor and color scheme. Low-profile, modern patio furniture is available from this retailer as well, so you can bring home items like:
- Sectionals, sofas and chairs
- Outdoor heating and storage units
- Dining sets and kitchen accents
- Cushions, pillows, planters and umbrellas
- Recreational accessories like tents, tree swings and pool floats
Restoration Hardware
RH offers furniture in several different styles, including modern, contemporary, transitional, and classic. Many of this brand’s indoor and outdoor furniture and decor collections come from its various design partners, so products can suit a rustic look, a coastal aesthetic or anything in between. RH patio decor items may include:
- Lounge seating
- Conversation sets
- Dining and bar furniture
- Cushions and covers
- Rugs, planters, fountains and lighting
Returns and Exchanges
Some furniture brands have warranties or return policies to help customers feel more confident in the quality of their purchases. Before investing in new furniture, ensure that you understand each company’s return policy and decide which store’s methods and guidelines meet your expectations.
West Elm
In most cases, West Elm will refund the full purchase amount if you send a damaged or defective piece back within 30 days. Returns for smaller accessories and decor items must occur within seven days of delivery. Custom orders, discount items and products with normal wear and tear are ineligible for return or exchange.
Restoration Hardware
Restoration Hardware has a similar return policy to West Elm. Customers must send or bring back qualifying items within 30 days of delivery in order to receive a refund or exchange the pieces for other undamaged products. Mattresses and foundations from this retailer often come with a limited manufacturer warranty as well.
Delivery
When researching West Elm or Restoration Hardware, you’ll find that these companies have similar shipping methods. Larger furnishings typically qualify for direct white glove delivery. Shipping costs depend on your distance from the nearest store. Home accents usually ship through independent carriers.
Special Services
West Elm and Restoration Hardware also offer convenient services to help customers find and afford beautiful, stylish furniture to make their design dreams a reality. Research each brand’s special promotions and services to see which one would be the best option for your budget and decorating needs.
West Elm
West Elm’s Design Crew assists customers with different steps of the home decoration process. You can find professionals to help you plan the perfect look for your various layout, choose colors and fabrics that work best for each space or even figure out how to mount your flat screen TV on the wall and where to place the other items in the room.
Restoration Hardware
RH also offers professional design services for those who want extra help decorating a single room or an entire home. You’ll start with a one-on-one meeting to discuss your design vision, then you and the designer will brainstorm different layouts and furnishings that can help you achieve the look you want. RH also has a credit card program to help customers finance furniture.
Which Brand Is Right For You?
After noting the differences between West Elm and Restoration Hardware, you can shop smart when looking for patio furniture. Both retailers provide high-end outdoor products in an array of attractive styles. Consider locations, special amenities, and delivery options before making a final decision.