An Introduction to Purchasing High-End European Furniture

Why It’s Different—and Why It’s Worth It

In a world of instant gratification and flat-pack convenience, high-end European furniture stands in stark contrast. It’s not about speed. It’s about craftsmanship, heritage, and quality that spans generations. While many online furniture retailers promise fast shipping and budget pricing, they often deliver mass-produced, flat-packed pieces that lack the character and integrity of true European craftsmanship.

Made to Order, Handcrafted in Europe

At David Michael, 100% of our furniture is handcrafted in Italy, Spain, or France and made to order. Each piece is built by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. These craftsmen work with solid woods, fine veneers, hand-applied finishes, and ornamental detailing that simply cannot be replicated in mass production.

Made-to-order production is an intentional process. It typically takes 90 days or more for a piece to be built from scratch, finished according to the designer’s specifications, and shipped by container to our facility in the United States. Once received, every piece is carefully unpacked, assembled, and inspected before being re-crated and shipped to our clients.

By contrast, many so-called “luxury” brands rely on large-scale production and overseas warehousing. Their products are designed for fast delivery in flat boxes—often requiring the buyer to complete final assembly with basic tools. While convenient, this process typically sacrifices long-term durability, refined aesthetics, and personalization.

Built for Designers, Customized for You

We offer thousands of designs online, with the majority customizable in finish, fabric, and size. This level of detail and personalization is why our furnishings are trusted by the interior design community across the country.

Because of the complexity and customization involved, click-to-purchase ordering for custom products is not recommended. Each item requires consultation, careful planning, and coordination between client, designer, manufacturer, and logistics providers. This is not fast furniture—it’s heirloom-quality work meant to reflect individual style and last for generations.

Stocked and Ready in Virginia

To meet the needs of design professionals and customers with tighter timelines, we maintain a substantial inventory of our most popular designs—fully or partially assembled—at our warehouse in Lynchburg, Virginia. These in-stock pieces are carefully selected for their broad appeal and are ready to ship, offering the perfect balance of artisanal quality and timely delivery. Like all our furnishings, each stocked item is handcrafted in Europe and reflects the same exceptional standards as our made-to-order pieces.

If you see a piece online that interests you, feel free to contact us—there’s a good chance we may have it in stock as shown and ready to ship.

Why White Glove Service Matters

High-end European furniture requires expert handling. These are not items you can simply leave at the doorstep. Many pieces are partially or fully assembled, heavy, and fragile. They require white glove delivery service—trained professionals who place, assemble, and inspect the furniture in your home to ensure it arrives in flawless condition.

This level of care is vital to preserve the integrity of hand-applied finishes, delicate carvings, inlays, and premium materials such as marble, gold leaf, or fine upholstery.

Quality Takes Time—and Cost Reflects It

True luxury is defined by what goes into a piece: solid hardwoods, hand-cut marquetry, hand-carved detailing, 24K gold accents, and time-consuming finishing techniques. It is also defined by what is not used: no particle board, no synthetic veneers, and no shortcuts.

The price difference between handcrafted European furniture and mass-produced alternatives is significant—and for good reason. You’re not paying for a box in a warehouse. You’re investing in artistry, customization, and enduring value

Planning for International Logistics

Because these items are built to order in Europe, delays can occasionally occur during transit—especially in international freight or customs clearance. While most deliveries remain within projected timelines, we encourage clients to plan ahead and understand that the same patience and planning required to build the furniture also applies to its safe delivery.

Conclusion

High-end European furniture is not about fast fashion or quick delivery—it’s about timeless design, enduring quality, and the legacy of true craftsmanship. While the process may take longer and cost more, the result is a level of beauty, customization, and value that mass-produced furniture simply cannot achieve.

For those who appreciate artistry, refinement, and the luxury of bespoke design, there is no substitute.