Skip to main content

Cookies on BBB.org

We use cookies to give users the best content and online experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to allow us to use all cookies. Visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Cookie Preferences

Many websites use cookies or similar tools to store information on your browser or device. We use cookies on BBB websites to remember your preferences, improve website performance and enhance user experience, and to recommend content we believe will be most relevant to you. Most cookies collect anonymous information such as how users arrive at and use the website. Some cookies are necessary to allow the website to function properly, but you may choose to not allow other types of cookies below.

Necessary Cookies

What are necessary cookies?
These cookies are necessary for the site to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you that amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

Necessary cookies must always be enabled.

Functional Cookies

What are functional cookies?
These cookies enable the site to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of these services may not function properly.

Performance Cookies

What are performance cookies?
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.

Marketing Cookies

What are marketing cookies?
These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant content on other sites. They do not store personal information directly, but are based on uniquely identifying your browser or device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will experience less targeted advertising.

Find a Location

Ballard Designs has locations, listed below.

*This company may be headquartered in or have additional locations in another country. Please click on the country abbreviation in the search box below to change to a different country location.

    Country
    Please enter a valid location.

    ComplaintsforBallard Designs

    Catalog Shopping
    View Business profile
    View Business profile

    Need to file a complaint?

    BBB is here to help. We'll guide you through the process.

    File a Complaint

    Complaint Details

    Note that complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. See details.

    Filter by

    Showing all complaints

    Filter by

    Complaint Status
    Complaint Type
    • Complaint Type:
      Product Issues
      Status:
      Answered
      I purchased a desk set. They sent duplicate of one of the items. There was no charge for it.we returned it for a refund. They sent a gift certificate. we were okay with that. we like their products. they refuse to honor gift certificate. they say it has expired. i told them it has an expiration date of 08/30/2024. They insist it is expired. i have attached copy of gift certificate. we sent back duplicate that we weren't charged for (their mistake). accepted gift certificate in lieu of cash refund. not only are they not honoring gift certificate, but they are rude about it.

      Business response

      05/14/2024

      We've reviewed the customer concern, and we'll reach out to the customer to re-issue the gift certificate. 
    • Complaint Type:
      Delivery Issues
      Status:
      Resolved
      Ordered a rug November 6. They canceled the first delivery. The second delivery never arrived.

      Business response

      01/04/2024

      We've reviewed the customers concern and the refund was processed on December 26th. We're working with our transportation department on the miscommunication. We'll follow up with the customer to address the issue. 

      Customer response

      01/04/2024

       
      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

      Sincerely,

      *******************************
    • Complaint Type:
      Sales and Advertising Issues
      Status:
      Resolved
      I ordered the chair it is beautiful. One of the problems is that the bird was to be on the back and the flowers on the front. The other major problem are the cracks in three different places.They promised to replace, then they never sent arrangements to pick up. I contacted a few more times, then they said I had to call the day before pick up so that they could schedule. I called the day before, and no there system is down and will be down a few days so I need to call back. I believe they have no intentions because it has been several months, and I've gotten nothing but the run around.The box is as flimsy as they come and I've added extra bubbles and cardboard to hopefully prevent any additional damage. I would like this resolved.

      Business response

      12/07/2023

      After reviewing the customer's concern, we will reach out with a resolution. 

      Customer response

      12/08/2023

       
      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

      Sincerely,

      ***************************
    • Complaint Type:
      Delivery Issues
      Status:
      Answered
      Ordered 4 chairs only 3 showed up. Called 5 times keep getting the same response that they are working on it. They tell me when they are calling me back. Example will call in 1 day 2 days or a week. No calls. I have to constantly follow up and nothing gets resolved.

      Business response

      12/07/2023

      After reviewing the customer's, we will reach out with a resolution. 
    • Complaint Type:
      Sales and Advertising Issues
      Status:
      Answered
      I purchased a quilt from Ballard design in September 2021. Shortly after, it started falling apart. I reached out to Ballard to let them know about the issue in March 2023 once the issue had worsened. They proceeded to issue a credit for $127.60 after I sent photos to a closed credit card without my permission. Ive been emailing and calling them ever since trying to get it resolved and they sometimes say the check is in the mail and other times say its not possible to retrieve the funds. I am so exhausted by the run around and want a check so that I can purchase new bedding.

      Business response

      07/26/2023

      We've reviewed the customer concerns and we will reach out to address the issue. 
    • Complaint Type:
      Service or Repair Issues
      Status:
      Answered
      3 Lemans counter stools purchased from Ballard Designs in July 2017, order #x472404410015 with rush seats at $299 each. The rush seats are now cracking/splintering/catching on our clothing. Letter was sent to Ballard Designs (and photos) requesting the seats be replaced as this damage should not be happening to a $299 stool that is still advertised and listed in their catalog. Ballard Designs response states they stand behind their products, but only for a 1 year warranty. Very deceptive as the stools start falling apart after the warranty year.

      Business response

      06/21/2023

      We reviewed the customer concerns and we'll reach out to customer on a resolution. 
    • Complaint Type:
      Product Issues
      Status:
      Unanswered
      Placed order for the Geneva Bookcase on Feb 28, 2023. Received the first bookcase on March 13th using Ballard's "white glove" service by *************. The delivery guys unpacked the bookcase and found some of the finish missing and black smears in other parts of the finish. They had me contact customer service and arrange for an exchange. (I had a painter on site who offered to repaint the bookcase, but Ballard's offered discount for the item did not cover the cost to repaint it. We proceeded with the exchange.) The second bookcase arrive on April 4th. Again the delivery guys found the bookcase damaged (a crack on one of the legs). A credit was requested. The poor quality of this product was no longer in doubt. ************* took them both on April 4th and provided me with both RA numbers. I was told the credit would be issued when the bookcases reached the warehouse. With no communication I called several times and found out that on April 10th at the direction of Ballard Design's the bookcases were picked up by an unknown carrier and on or before April 20 the bookcases were delivered to an unknown warehouse. Again I called and was told at least one of the bookcases had been received and the credit would be issued in 5 business days. Six business days later, I called and was told that it would be 10 business days after Ballard's return department reviewed them, but that the customer service person was going to send an email and request the credit be processed. REALLY!! Ballard Design's own delivery guys flagged the bookcases as damaged and took them back. Why can't I get written communication that the "return department" has the bookcases and the amount of credit due. More importantly - why are they holding up the credit at all? I want a full credit for the bookcase, tax and shipping applied to my credit card immediately. AND an apology for the defective product and sloppy customer service wouldn't be a bad idea either. SIGNED DISGUSTED

      Business response

      05/09/2023

      We've reviewed the customer's concerns and we'll reach out with an apology. The refund was done on April 28, 2023. 

      Customer response

      05/10/2023

      Ballard issued credit for the bookcase and tax but short the shipping charges on the date they received the BBB complaint, April 28, 2023.  Called Ballard for a 5th time and demand a refund of the shipping.  That refund was finally provided until May 1,2023.  On May 8, 2023 I received an email from Ballard with an apology.  It included a discount certificate for $100.  That was nice except the certificate expired on the same day, May 8th.  The certificate info in the email did not include any identifying information that allowed it to be applied.  The more formal certificate showed up in my email on May 10, 2023, two days after it expired.  This company is dishonest and incompetent.  I will have no further business with them.

      Business response

      05/11/2023

      I've reached out to the customer and informed her that the gift certificate expires on May 8, **** and sent her a screenshot of GC number and expiration date. 

      Customer response

      05/11/2023

       
      Complaint: 19991717

      I am rejecting this response because:  The original gift certificate expired on the date issued.  The company is correcting this additional error and making it look like I (the customer) was in error.  Not true.  

      How many customer service mistakes can this company make in one transaction.  It is laughable at this point.  I do not want to spend anymore time on this issue.  I will stay away from Ballard Designs and make sure everyone I know does the same.

      Sincerely,

      *******************************

    • Complaint Type:
      Product Issues
      Status:
      Resolved
      The upholstered bench with Performance Upgrade Fabric arrived with a noticeable flaw. Phone conversations and various emails starting on 11/22 are attached.As of 3/23 Ballards is claiming that no notification of desired replacement has been received.Ballard Designs Order Number: T4849706 Items Purchases:PRODUCT NAME: ******* CORNER W 2 36 INCH BENCHES COM BLACK LEGS / UB070 COM BLK ***Item Non-Returnable***QUANTITY SHIPPED: 1 SHIP METHOD: Truck SHIP STATUS: SHIPPED TRACKING NUMBER(S):Purchased the upgrade of Performance Fabric Order Subtotal:$2,683.45 Shipping:$118.00 Tax:$223.88 Total:$3,025.33 ******************* **************

      Business response

      04/12/2023

      We've reviewed the customer concerns and we've reached out to the customer. A replacement order has been set-up for the damaged item. 

      Customer response

      04/12/2023

       
      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

      Sincerely,

      *******************
    • Complaint Type:
      Sales and Advertising Issues
      Status:
      Answered
      On November 3, 2022 I purchased a sideboard ORDER NUMBER:T5339120 with an expected delivery between 12/05/2022 - 12/12/2022. As I watched the tracking information, I saw that the item had not been shipped out as expected. On December 7th, ********, a customer service rep apologized for the delay and wrote that I would receive a shipping credit after the item had shipped. Again, I contacted Ballard Designs on December 28th inquiring about the expected shipping date. I finally received the item the 2nd week of January. On January 30th I contacted Ballard Designs inquiring about the shipping credit. Patches, a customer service rep, stated that I should receive a credit in 3-5 business days. It is February 26th and I have yet to receive the credit. The furniture purchased was intended for the holidays. It was not delivered as expected. I made concessions based on the promise of a shipping refund.

      Business response

      03/09/2023

      We've reviewed the customer concerns. The shipping fee was credited on February 17, 2023, to her original form of payment. We'll reach out to the customer and share which credit card number it was refunded too. 
    • Complaint Type:
      Delivery Issues
      Status:
      Answered
      October 2022 I ordered 4 Outdoor dining chairs. I discovered they were only three delivered to my client on the island of Kauai in the ******** islands One month later I learn they only had three chairs in stock after calling repeatedly about where the fourth chair was. I was credited for the missing chair. The option of returning these 3 chairs was pricey. needed to be re-boxed, and shipped back, Which was out of the question.My clients needed the outdoor chairs. We kept the 3 (repairing one which was cracked.)In January 2023 I ordered two similar side chairs for my client to make up for the missing chair. After two months waiting and calling the business and shipper in ******** I was finally told the shipment was lost. I was told to cancel the order and get a credit, Then reorder.I re-ordered the identical chairs and it will be three weeks on 3/1/2023, Wednesday and the product has still not left the warehouse. I have been told they are in stock.It has been a comedy of errors with this company, going on 5 months!!My clients like the chairs and I am trying to get some side chairs to complete the set. No one seems to have an answer. No one is taking charge. I am stuck as a designer trying to work with Ballard and solve this Mele of incompetence.I hope you can light a fire under someone!

      Business response

      03/09/2023

      We've reviewed the customer concerns and we'll reach out to the customer. We will also reach out to the carrier on confirmation on the delivery date of the order. The expected delivery timeframe is between March 14th and March 21st.  

    Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

    BBB Business Profiles may not be reproduced for sales or promotional purposes.

    BBB Business Profiles are provided solely to assist you in exercising your own best judgment. BBB asks third parties who publish complaints, reviews and/or responses on this website to affirm that the information provided is accurate. However, BBB does not verify the accuracy of information provided by third parties, and does not guarantee the accuracy of any information in Business Profiles.

    When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints.

    BBB Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period. BBB Business Profiles are subject to change at any time. If you choose to do business with this business, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a BBB Business Profile.

    As a matter of policy, BBB does not endorse any product, service or business.