West Elm vs. Pottery Barn

Whats the Difference?

Store comparison is a crucial step in buying furniture. When examining the differences between West Elm vs. Pottery Barn, buyers might find the process easier than expected. These high-end retailers are both part of the Williams-Sonoma family. This brand offers quality home furnishings through a variety of stores targeted at specific customers.

While your West Elm gift card will definitely work at Pottery Barn and vice versa, these companies are quite different. Each has a unique style profile and options designed to meet certain buyer needs.

Summary of Comparisons

West Elm vs. Pottery Barn: Retail Mission

In this respect, West Elm and Pottery Barn are quite similar. Both brands practice responsible sourcing, using reclaimed or recycled materials and collaborating with groups that limit the use of chemicals during production. Both vendors offer quaility furniture that you can feel good about buying.

Locations

West Elm and Pottery Barn serve a worldwide market and offer online shopping, which makes visiting a local showroom less vital to buyers. However, shipping costs vary based on distance, so choosing the closest store saves money.

West Elm

West Elm has showrooms in over 85 cities in the U.S. and operates in the Middle East, U.K., Mexico, Australia, and Canada.

Pottery Barn

With a strong e-commerce environment as well as over 200 locations, Pottery Barn also enjoys an international presence as well.

Return Policy

These retailers offer the same return policies. The following rules apply to products from either West Elm or Pottery Barn:

• Returns with an original receipt receive a full refund.
• Gift receipt returns can expect store credit.
• Delivery fees are non-refundable.

Delivery

The retailers also share a shipping policy. West Elm and Pottery Barn transport options include:

• Front door parcel delivery
• Next day shipments
• Unlimited flat rate shipping
• International shipping

The Greatest Difference between West Elm and Pottery Barn: Style and Price

Modern and urban in design, West Elm prices its furniture at the bottom tier of the high-end market. Founded in 2002, the brand is a newcomer compared to Pottery Barn, which got its start in 1949. As a result, West Elm has only recently become a household name.

Pottery Barn, the more established retailer, offers many decor styles. In particular, contemporary and rustic home designers will find plenty to love. Slightly higher price points are in line with the company’s trusted name.

Special Features

Both West Elm and Pottery Barn have their own amenities that may appeal to certain shoppers.

Eco-Friendly

West Elm supports a sustainable production model. In fact, they have the Forest Stewardship Certification medal and create 90 percent of their furniture in-house.

Custom Orders

Pottery Barn has an option for custom upholstered seating. Shoppers can choose from a broad selection of styles, materials, and colors.

Is West Elm or Pottery Barn for You?

The differences between West Elm and Pottery Barn involve design tastes, budget, and special features. Regardless of the brand that resonates with your current home design and decor, you’re sure to find stylish, well-made furniture.