Lifestyle Solutions Barbados Day Bed w/Drawers Review

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(More customer reviews)After pondering for several months, I recently purchased this item and a Lifestyle Solutions (LS) 5pc. bedroom set from another distributor. I regret both purchases. In spite of the many positive reviews I read elsewhere, I am very disappointed in the quality and craftsmanship of this product. The manufacturer's customer service is even worse than their poor product quality.

LS owes a lot to their photographer who certainly makes their products appear to be more polished, well-constructed and sturdy than they actually are. The fit and finish does not match the product images, to say nothing of the price.

At any rate, I unpacked the daybed and was struck by the minimalist construction for a piece that costs $1,000 or more. I was also surprised by how fragile the two (2) main longitudinal support pieces appeared to be. The bed frame essentially consists of two (2) headboards that are connected by two(2) wood supports measuring approximately 1" x 2" x 76" (Thickness x Height x Length). Each of the two wood supports have another ~ 1" thick piece of wood attached by screws to the inner side to serve as support for the wood slats that are the platform for the mattress. For the twin-sized daybed there are no other support pieces.

I assembled the pieces easily as directed by the included instructions. Given the minimalist construction, the directions are straightforward and easy to follow. After assembling and placing the mattress and pillows on the platform I laid my fit and trim 190 lb. frame down to test the sturdiness and comfort of the bed. I found the bed comfortable and sturdy at first. I then decided to test a little further by elevating (in a supine position) and landing on the bed to further test it's sturdiness. I heard a slight noise on the first bounce and then the distinct and loud sound of one of the supports cracking beneath me on the second bounce. The bed gave way in the middle on one side at which point I stood up and inspected the damage. To my surprise, the wood support had split and exposed what appeared to be an interlocking joint wedge. Apparently the wood supports are constructed of composite pieces of wood that are compressed and wedged together then lacquered over. Of course, I was not at all happy with this development.

I immediately emailed support and sent pictures of the damage. After emailing back and forth for about 2 weeks, I was eventually notified that a replacement part would be sent. After emailing back and forth for another 3-4 weeks, I was finally notified that the replacement part was shipped. I finally received the replacement part and reassembled the bed. I am still hesitant about putting much weight on the bed until I figure out a better way to provide additional bending support. BTW, Lifestyle Solutions forgot to ship the under bed drawers with the original shipment. I am still waiting to receive that portion of the order some 6 weeks later.

If the price of this product was $300.00 or $400.00 less, I would feel a little better about my purchase. My recommendation is to look elsewhere.

UPDATE (8/11/2010): I finally got the remaining portion of my order and inspected it for damage. There was slight damage to two of the drawer facings and the third drawer was completely damaged. At this point I am exhausted with my ordering experience with this manufacturer and will seek to cut my losses and accept whatever remedy is available to close this matter.

I underscore my previous recommendation to avoid this item and this manufacturer at all costs. Their products photograph well but are POORLY made. Everything about this item is substandard -- from the construction materials, construction, assembly design, to the packaging itself. Save yourself a major headache and find a different manufacturer.

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Product Description:
Invite the uplifting vacation feel into your home with the Beautiful Barbados Day Bed.