Even something as simple as a small side table or bookshelf can give your bedroom added interest and these days you can get stylish items for every room without spending a lot. Now a days ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture is available in most stores and it's not the cheap junk that it used to be.

Stores like WalMart and Target have expanded their selection and added stylish models to their selection of RTA furniture and IKEA continues to be a pioneer in this type of furniture offering hundreds of styles at discount prices. According to market analysis reports, RTA furniture is one of the fastest growing segments of the furniture market in the world.

Ready-to-assemble furniture has made it's reputation in simple storage items, like microwave stands and bookcases, which were often considered low quality. Price point and package handling have always been a big feature of RTA. You could easily take what you need from the store and put it together at home that same day.

Today, comsumers are beginning to demand more sophisticated design as well as durability. While the consumers' standards may be increasing, their pocketbook still forces them to watch for price. Many younger consumers are looking to create stylish rooms that integrate with newer technology - the slim and modern designs common to RTA have a clear win over heavier, more expensive furnishings with this group.

It used to be that RTA furniture was cheaply made and not very stylish but the quality is greatly improving with better materials and modern designer styles are being offered.

If you are afraid you won't be able to put it together, then you'll be happy to know that involvement by local manufacturers has improved the clarity of instructions available to the do-it-yourselfer. The common problem of RTA was often that instructions were translated by the foreign makers - leading to confusion and frustration. Improvements to the instructions lead to happier consumers, fueling the trend even further.


RTA furniture originally was created for the home entertainment and home storage needs but has branched out to more decorative pieces. Many office supply stores have been carrying RTA desk and office furniture for years and recently, RTA furniture has expanded into dining room, bedroom and living room furniture.

Today you can find a designer bedroom set at Walmart or even your own grocery store and you won't have to pay those high boutique prices to get a designer look.