Step into the world of Online8, where craftsmanship meets design, and vintage charm finds a place in contemporary spaces. Verve sit down with Pradeep, the founder of Online8, to unravel the story of how a passion for unique, high-quality furniture led to the creation of a brand that has captured the hearts of customers nationwide.
Hi Pradeep, tell us about yourself and why you got into the furniture business?
I have always held a profound appreciation for craftsmanship and design. As a result, I’ve always been captivated by vintage furniture and décor; there’s something about the character and charm it can bring to any space. When my wife and I met, we were both pleasantly surprised that we both shared the same passion. Needless to say, this all segued perfectly into our story moving forward.
As time went on and we bought our first home, we searched for a certain style of furniture, which we discovered was a mission to find. As we began sourcing the type of furniture we loved, guests would always compliment our decor and ask where we found it.
As we delved deeper, we realised there was a unique opportunity to bring high-quality, well-designed furniture to a broader audience. We saw a need for a curated selection that combined both aesthetics and functionality, catering to various tastes and lifestyles.
This was the beginning of our journey, the beginning of Online8.
We ran the business part-time and entirely online during the early days of the pandemic. However, as business picked up rapidly, it exceeded our expectations, leading to exponential growth in a short period of time. To our then surprise, we discovered that customers loved our selection; our range struck a chord across the country with people furnishing their entire properties with Online8.
This led to an expansion of our product line, allowing us to select a collection of pieces we hold dear.
After our online success, we decided to open our first showroom for clients to view selected pieces that give them the feel and quality we sell.
Where did the name Online8 come from?
As an online store, we aimed for a straightforward name, which led us to choose Online8. The number 8 holds special significance for both my wife and me. We believe that online shopping is the way forward.
What are some key things you look for when curating your furniture range?
Uniqueness, Class, and Quality
What is your favourite piece of furniture you own?
Excalibur Aged Italian Leather Swivel Chair
What are your customers loving at the moment?
Our Occasional Chairs and Large Mirrors currently. Most customers get overwhelmed when they enter our showroom, and there is always something for everyone.
You have almost 100 5-star customer reviews on Google, which is incredible. Tell us what makes your service stand out?
Our commitment to customer satisfaction. We prioritise clear communication, timely delivery, and quality products. Our team goes the extra mile to ensure every customer has a seamless and positive experience.
Additionally, we continuously listen to feedback and use it to improve and enhance our offering. This dedication to excellence is what has earned us nearly 100 5-star reviews on Google. We are truly grateful for the support of our amazing customers!
I’ve always been captivated by vintage furniture and décor; there’s something about the character and charm it can bring to any space.
What’s the biggest mistake you see people make when buying furniture?
One of the most common mistakes I observe when people are purchasing furniture is not considering the scale and proportions of the piece in relation to the room. It’s important to measure both the furniture and the space it will occupy to ensure they are a good fit. Another common error is not taking into account the existing colour scheme and style of the room, which can result in a piece that clashes with the overall aesthetic. Lastly, overlooking the quality of materials and construction can lead to disappointment in the long run. It’s essential to invest in well-made furniture that will stand the test of time.
What’s one piece of furniture that can transform any room?
With the right selection, an armchair/casual chair can transform any room.
