Virtual Styling
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
From the Costa del Sol to country fincas, Spanish homes are seeing a surge in online decorating — with more and more people turning to websites and apps for stylish, affordable pieces delivered right to their doorstep. Whether you›re searching for a statement mirror, minimalist coffee table, or woven pendant light, shopping for furniture online promises convenience, choice, and often, a surprisingly low price tag. But how reliable is it, really?
In Spain, platforms like Maisons du Monde, Kave Home, and La Redoute Interiors offer on-trend designs with relatively fast delivery and dependable customer service. Then there are international giants like IKEA and Zara Home, both of which offer extensive online catalogues with local delivery options across much of the country. Newer names like H&M Home and Westwing have gained popularity for their curated edits and seasonal collections, especially among renters or those looking for quick, chic updates.
But while online shopping offers access to styles you may not find locally — especially in rural areas — it also carries its fair share of frustrations. One of the most common is the disparity between how an item looks in a professional product photo and what arrives at your door. That sleek armchair with boucle fabric may, in reality, feel more like thin felt. The rustic coffee table that looked beautifully aged online might arrive as a flat-packed board with faux wood veneer. These differences don’t always mean the product is bad — but they can disappoint if expectations aren’t managed.
There are also issues of size. In physical stores, you can see and feel the scale of furniture — how high a seat sits, how deep a sofa feels, or how wide a dining table really is. Online, it›s easy to misjudge. Even with measurements listed, shoppers can find themselves with items that either overwhelm or underwhelm the space. Reading reviews, especially those with customer photos, is one of the most effective ways to navigate this. Real photos often reveal true colour, material texture, and proportions better than anything the product description will tell you.
On the upside, online shopping opens up flexibility. You can browse multiple styles from bed, compare prices across sites, and take your time without pressure. For busy families, remote workers, or expats renovating second homes, this ease is invaluable. And because many sites offer free or low-cost delivery across Spain — especially on orders over a certain amount — the experience is often more economical than people expect.
However, returns remain a grey area. While most reputable sites allow returns, the process isn’t always simple. Returning a cushion cover is one thing; sending back a 40kg wardrobe is another. Costs, repackaging requirements, and courier collection slots can turn what seems like a small mistake into a full afternoon of logistics. For this reason, many shoppers avoid buying bulky items unless they’re confident in the quality or have seen them in person previously.
That said, when done wisely, online furniture shopping in Spain can be a brilliant resource. It allows you to discover pieces that reflect your style — whether that’s Mediterranean minimalism, rustic warmth, or bold contemporary — without being limited by local showroom stock. And with a bit of patience and review-scrolling, there are real gems to be found. A handmade-look rug, a perfect glass vase, or a lamp that adds just the right glow to your living space.
So what›s the takeaway? Online homeware shopping can offer incredible value, especially if you know where to look and take time to research. Trustworthy sites, customer reviews, and a realistic view of what you’re buying are key. While some items may fall short, many are well-made, beautiful, and genuinely elevate your home.
As with anything, it’s about balance: a little care in selection goes a long way — and sometimes, you really do get what you pay for. But every now and then, you might just find something special that looks and feels like it cost three times the price.
Comments