Why High Point Is the Furniture Capital of the World
High Point's identity is inseparable from furniture. The city hosts High Point Market, the largest home furnishings trade show in the world, which draws tens of thousands of buyers, designers, and manufacturers each spring and fall. Showrooms fill more than ten million square feet of space, and many of the industry's most respected brands are headquartered in or near the city. Even the city's landmarks, like the giant highboy chest of drawers, celebrate its furniture heritage.
For consumers, this means access to an extraordinary range of retail stores, outlets, and brand galleries. Whether you are furnishing a first apartment or designing a luxury home, here are ten of the best furniture stores and brands in High Point.
1. Furnitureland South
Furnitureland South is one of the largest furniture stores in the world and a must-visit destination for many shoppers. Its massive showroom features hundreds of brands across every style, from traditional to contemporary. Shoppers appreciate the in-house design consultants, competitive pricing, and the ability to compare many manufacturers in one location.
2. Universal Furniture
Universal Furniture is headquartered in High Point and is known for stylish, livable collections designed for modern lifestyles. Its designer collaborations and coastal, transitional, and contemporary lines are widely available through local retailers. Universal's focus on value and design makes it a favorite for families updating entire rooms.
3. Theodore Alexander
Theodore Alexander is a luxury furniture brand with a strong presence in High Point. Its pieces are celebrated for hand-carved details, fine veneers, and artisan craftsmanship. Designers seeking statement pieces for high-end residential projects frequently turn to Theodore Alexander for its blend of heritage and contemporary design.
4. Bernhardt
Bernhardt is a North Carolina furniture maker with more than a century of history. Based in Lenoir, the brand offers sophisticated upholstery, case goods, and outdoor furniture. Its commitment to craftsmanship and design innovation has earned it a loyal following among interior designers and homeowners.
5. Century Furniture
Century Furniture, based in Hickory, is renowned for custom upholstery and fine wood furniture. Customers can choose from extensive fabric and finish options to create truly personalized pieces. High Point shoppers who value quality craftsmanship and customization often place Century near the top of their list.
6. Hooker Furnishings
Hooker Furnishings has a long history in the Southern furniture industry and offers a broad portfolio of brands spanning casual to upscale styles. Its home office, entertainment, and bedroom collections are well regarded for function and finish. The company's showroom presence during Market keeps it closely tied to High Point.
7. Bassett Furniture
Bassett is a Virginia-based brand with deep roots in American furniture manufacturing. Its stores offer custom upholstery, solid wood furniture, and free design services. Bassett's quick-ship custom options and made-to-order flexibility make it a practical choice for homeowners who want personalization without long waits.
8. Ashley Furniture HomeStore
Ashley is one of the largest furniture brands in the world, offering affordable and stylish pieces for every room. Its High Point-area stores carry sofas, sectionals, bedroom sets, and mattresses, often with financing and delivery options. Ashley is a strong choice for budget-conscious shoppers who want a complete look quickly.
9. La-Z-Boy
La-Z-Boy is best known for recliners, but it also offers stylish sofas, sectionals, and custom upholstery. Its comfort-focused designs and in-store design services help customers create inviting living spaces. La-Z-Boy's reputation for durability and comfort keeps it popular with families.
10. Havertys
Havertys is a Southern furniture retailer known for quality pieces, attentive service, and complimentary design consultations. Its collections range from modern farmhouse to contemporary styles. Havertys appeals to shoppers who want an elevated retail experience with reliable delivery and support.
Furniture Trends Emerging from High Point Market
Because High Point Market influences the entire industry, trends that start here quickly reach homes nationwide. Curved silhouettes, warm earthy tones, performance fabrics, and natural materials like rattan and light oak are popular. Sustainability is growing, with manufacturers offering responsibly sourced wood and eco-friendly finishes. Multi-functional furniture for smaller spaces and home offices also continues to rise.
Tips for Visiting High Point as a Furniture Shopper
If you are traveling to High Point specifically to shop, plan your trip carefully. Retail stores are open to the public year-round, but many downtown showrooms are reserved for trade professionals during Market weeks in April and October, when traffic and hotel demand also peak. Visiting outside those dates usually means a calmer experience and more attention from sales staff. Bring room measurements, photos of your space, and fabric or paint samples. Ask stores about shipping to your home state, as many High Point retailers deliver nationwide with white-glove service.
How to Choose the Right Furniture Store
Set a clear budget and measure your space before shopping. Decide whether you want ready-to-ship pieces or custom options, and ask about lead times. Inspect construction details such as joinery, frame materials, and cushion density. Take advantage of design services, which are often free, and confirm delivery, assembly, and return policies before buying.
Final Thoughts
No city in the world offers furniture shopping quite like High Point. From the vast showroom at Furnitureland South to locally headquartered Universal Furniture and luxury craftsmanship from Theodore Alexander, the options are endless. Whether you live nearby or plan a special trip, High Point is the place to find furniture that turns a house into a home.