Furniture

August 18, 2021

Perfecting Assembly Piece by Piece

“Meet the Makers” is one of our favorite features from our factory partners – Old Dominion Furniture Company. This time we meet Charlie, who has been with Old Dominion Furniture Company for 31 years! In our opinion, it says a lot about a company, when you have veterans like Charlie around. Read on below and see how Charlie has been perfecting assembly, piece by piece!

 

Originally from West Virginia, Charlie has a background in construction. Applying and interviewing for a position in 1990, he was hired on the spot! His first job was in the finishing department, spraying and finishing high chair and chair frames. With quick hands and an eye for detail, he quickly moved from Finishing to Assembly, where he has continually honed his skill and now leads the team responsible for building all the chairs, barstools and child seating.

Charlie’s dedication and commitment stems from a love of his hands-on role. He feels that this position, perfecting assembly piece by piece, is “what he was destined to do,” partly because he actively builds and works with his hands every day. Another part of what makes the job special for Charlie is the people. He is a true team player, and his upbeat, friendly personality makes him great to work with and for.

Old Dominion Furniture Company owner John says of Charlie: “Charlie is immensely loyal and, after 31 years, embodies what we mean when we say Old Dominion Family!”

May 26, 2021

Crafting Color Formulas and Perfecting Hues

Crafting color formulas and perfecting hues can be a difficult task! But in today’s installment of “Meet the Maker” from our factory partners – Old Dominion Furniture Company. we meet the person who does just that!

Linda has served as Old Dominion Furniture Company’s lead colorist since 2002! Nailing down the precise formula for matching stain and paint colors can be a tedious task! But Linda has it down to a science! During her 20 year tenure, she has formulated, mixed and perfected “recipes” for countless custom colors! Linda documents all of her recipes in countless handwritten books!

In 1990 Linda joined the Old Dominion crew as part of the Finishing Department. The finishing department is responsible for customizing the look of each chair frame and tabletop! From formulating custom paints and stains to applying color and sealer coats, the team ensures that each piece is flawless and ready for delivery! Linda’s task was to sand high chair frames, which is a critical step in the finishing process. After experiencing other roles in the finishing department, Linda moved to color mixing in 2002. And thanks to her perfectionist tendencies – her love-hate relationship with color is still going strong!

Linda enjoys being part of the Old Dominion team and takes great pride in her role in creating the beautiful pieces that customers have come to know Old Dominion Furniture Company for.

We continue to be amazed by her ability of crafting color formulas and perfecting hues with the same dedication and commitment as the day she started.

 

 

 

 

February 11, 2021

Meet the Makers: Covering Seating One Stitch at a Time

We are thrilled to bring you another installment of one of our favorite features from Old Dominion Furniture Co.: Meet the Makers!

Meet the Makers: RodneyToday, we are meeting Rodney, who heads up the Upholstery Department at Old Dominion Furniture Co.. To him, upholstery is an art form: “It is just like making a picture. You have to connect seams and patterns to create a flow between each part of the booth and all booths in a series. No two pieces are the same!”

And Rodney would know. He began working for Old Dominion Furniture Co. seven years ago as a laborer and now leads the team that installs fabric, vinyl and leather on all seating. Though his background was in the wood industry, upholstery has become his passion. He calls himself a “dedicated perfectionist” and loves structure, so his job overseeing all upholstery department details suits him well.

The close-knit relationship among the department are an added bonus.

“It feels like family here,” Rodney says. “We work as a team, and every day is an opportunity for us to learn something new.”

 

So what does the upholstery team do? The upholstery team at Old Dominion Furniture is hands-on and responsible for figuring out yardage, fabricating custom patterns, building the underlying structure of all seats and backs, as well as meticulously sewing each covering. Additionally, they expertly craft and apply finishing details like upholstered buttons, welt cord and nailhead trim. Rodney in action

Finally, they ensure that each piece is steamed, wrinkle-free and looking flawless before leaving the floor!

For us it is so wonderful to learn more about who is behind the beautiful furniture from Old Dominion Furniture Co., so stay tuned as we share more “Meet the Makers” in the future.

 

 

August 28, 2020

Meet the Makers: Selecting the Perfect Piece of Wood for Every Table Top!

Bernard from Old Dominion Today, you have a unique opportunity to meet the makers! From conception to creation to production to installation, each table top at Old Dominion Furniture Co. gets its start as a single piece of wood in the factory.

It is the job of traveling Gospel singer, Bernard, to set the initial benchmark of quality for every wood table top produced.

Bernard first started working for Old Dominion in 1975. He would go to class in the morning and work a full-time shift in the factory after school. He is proud of the joy and growth his position has brought him. “I wouldn’t get out of bed, for 45 years, for a job I hate.”

Bernard is a self-taught, yet expert, lumber grader and is responsible for sorting, selecting and grading each piece of lumber that comes into the Old Dominion Furniture Co. building. His commitment to his craft is a key component to the high standards of quality.

So you might be asking yourself; how does the dimensioning department work?

Step 1: Grade

Sorting, selecting and grading raw lumber sets the quality benchmark

Step 2: Chop

Chopping raw boards to specific lengths based on table top dimensions

Bernard at work

Step 3: Rip

Ripping the sides of raw boards for clean, straight edges, ideal for adhering boards together

wood working at OD

Step 4: Glue

Positioning and gluing boards based on grain pattern, to create raw table top panels

Gluing wood

Step 5: Sand and Size

Sanding, sizing and edging table top panels to meet order specifications.

Old Dominion finishing

Upon completion of each piece, the dimensioning department inspects all table tops before releasing them to the Finishing Department for stain and sealer.

We hope to share more installments of Meet the Makers in the future, as we find it interesting to learn about different aspects of the manufacturing process.

March 27, 2020

Nautical Teak Umbrella by TUUCI

TUUCI Nautical Teak Umbrella The innovative design of the new Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak umbrella by TUUCI draws inspiration from classic and modern sailing architecture and details! With it’s one-of-a-kind features, the Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak umbrella sets a new standard for teak umbrellas. Read on to learn more!

The unique reinforced mast, sports an aluminum spine; which adds strength to the umbrella! Further, it also allows the integration of an internal telescoping crank lift system. This is something never before achieved in a teak umbrella.

The Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak umbrella features responsibly harvested and expertly cured teak of the highest grade.

Teak will gracefully develop a gray patina over the long life of the product. Additionally, teak has the necessary oils to protect from dry rot and splintering, which is key in any outdoor environment. (No one wants splinters, when they sit down 😉)

TUUCi sources the natural teak for each umbrella, and uses it throughout the hubs, ribs and struts. Combined with polished metal elements the teak adds an elegance to this new umbrella, while also giving a nod to TUUCI’s aluminum roots.

INSPIRED DETAILS

The Aluma-CORE mast enables TUUCI’s proprietary gear system and telescoping mast. Further, the mast features a crank, which provides an easy open to close, and the telescoping elements allow for unobstructed closure over the furniture below. This innovative core reflects in external chassis reinforcements clad in polished yachting grade 316 stainless steel alloy.

SUPPORT WHERE YOU NEED IT

Inspired by TUUCI’s marine roots, the premium teak parasol blends the authentic beauty of natural teak hardwood, classic elements of nautical design and durability of corrosion-proof materials.

 

March 24, 2020

It’s elemental – new colors from emuamericas

emuamericas new colors for 2020Add some new and exciting colors to your patio this summer! For 2020 emuamericas introduces 3 new bold and beautiful colors that draw their inspiration from the elements.

Whether you prefer the cold of places like Alaska or Greenland, the grey of the urban jungle, or the sandy beaches of Florida or other exotic places, there is a color that is sure to please you! The 3 new colors are: Antique Ice White, Antique Cloud Grey and Antique Sand.

By adding these 3 new colors, emuamericas has now given you 21 different color options to choose from! Additonally, emuamericas also offers custom RAL colors, making the possibilities for color combinations endless!!! Don’t be afraid to mix and match the colors! The hottest trend right now, is to have more than one color on your patio.. 

Summer will be here before we know it, so if you are looking for inspiration for your patio, head on over to the emuamericas website. While you’re there, you can also view the products that are in these new colors! Alternatively, reach out to us, and we will be happy to send you the 2020 color card! The color card represents the all the 21 available colors, as accurately as can be achieved through the printing process! 

March 17, 2020

TUUCI Eclipse Cabana – Relaxation in Style

If you are anything like us, you are dreaming of warmer weather, and this week we are excited to showcase the TUUCI Eclipse Cabana! Available in a variety of  configurations the Eclipse Cabana creates a luxurious modular, outdoor open-air living room for relaxation in style.

Whether your vision is lounging by the pool or enjoying dinner with guests, the versatile TUUCI Eclipse Cabana can transform your landscape into an inviting shaded retreat.

TUUCI’s Eclipse Cabana features a Retractable Roman Shade Roof, which adds old-world romance and stylish shade to any cabana. Made with beautiful, durable, stain-resistant and fade-resistant Textilene® mesh fabric for UV protection and light filtration, the shade opens and closes easily on stainless steel cables. Choose from any of these colors to create the perfect open-air ambiance for your setting!

Available colors for Roman Shade Roof

Owing to the modular design of the TUUCI Eclipse Cabana, the possibilities of personalizing the look are almost endless! Additionally, the modular design of the cabanas means that they are not considered “permanent structures”. Therefore, they are not subject to building regulations – although we always recommend that you check with your local authorities first!

For the Eclipse Cabana, TUUCI offers a variety of modern and classic finishes to complement your outdoor space. Choose from one of the contemporary powder-coat options, or the state-of-the-art woodgrain Aluma-TEAKâ„¢ finish.

If you are worried about the outdoor conditions; don’t be! TUUCI tests all of their umbrellas and shade structures to to withstand demanding commercial wind-force standards. Additionally, TUUCI products come standard with:

  • Corrosion-resistant aluminum frame construction
  • High performance marine-grade materials
  • Replaceable components for a lifetime of serviceability

 

Engineered for simplicity, the Eclipse Cabana is beautiful and built to last!!

March 5, 2020

The Como Collection by emuamericas

Como chairs and tables as promoted by emuamericas

This is the best time of year to prepare your business for patio season! The Como Collection by emuamericas is here to help!

This week, we are happy to shine the spotlight on another new collection by emuamericas! Designed by Angeletti-Ruzza Design, the Como Collection by emuamericas is a reinterpretation of an Italian Classic. By giving the collection a contemporary look, it easily fits into any setting, regardless of it’s architectural style.

The practical proportions of the steel tube frame combined with a decorative motived back, create a refined appearance, which is timeless and versatile!

With this collection, the possibilities are endless, as it consists of a chair and an armchair, an armchair with a high backrest, as well as a lounge chair and loveseat. Completing the collection are two round tables with an intricate interwoven base and metal tops!

Want to know more about patio furniture and shade options? Then keep your eyes peeled, as we feature other exciting options for your outdoor space in the weeks to come!

 

 

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March 3, 2020

Mixology by Forbes with Chris Adams

Mixology Carts by Forbes with Chris Adams Forbes Industries has partnered with mixology expert, Chris Adams, to design a series of mobile mixology carts perfect for today’s restaurants, catering, food & beverage, and hotel events. This partnership resulted in the game changing Mixology Carts by Forbes with Chris Adams!

Early in his career, Chris Adams was trained by a Master Bartender. Under this tutelage, Chris learned to be technically sound in the art and chemistry of Mixology. Further, he gained an understanding of the intangible feelings guests have, as a connection with each drink. BUT, having in depth knowledge of all the elements being used, was only part of the equation. The stories and history behind those elements and pairings, gave him the foundation needed to maximize his skills.

The only missing piece was having a method to deliver these experiences to guests. Chris and the Forbes Design Team collaborated to create several design concepts resulting in a unique line of Mixology Carts. Specifically designed to enhance the presentation of the Mixologist, their tools and ingredients, the Mixology Carts are simple and yet practical.

So, what are the benefits of these Mixology Carts?

  • Built-In Everything: Designed with functionality in mind, the top tier models of Mixology Carts are available with all the bells and whistles. This could include adjustable gallery rails, extending speed rails, built in garnish and drip trays, storage for liquor, mixology tools, crushed and large format ice, a glass rinser and so much more!
  • Three Top Configuration Options: Depending on your needs, Forbes offers three configuration options for the top.
  • Customizable Cold Storage: Designed for the experienced user, the insulated Mixology Carts accepts standard size food pans. This allows for the Mixologist to organize their ingredients. If items need to stay cold and not wet, it separates them from the ice. Within easy reach, you can store larger pans for ice, which make for easy swap out during sevice.
  • Multiple Price Points: To ensure you get the Mixology Cart you desire, each design is available at multiple price points.
  • Boosted Social Media Presence: Mixology Carts are sure to create special one of a kind, post-worthy moments!

 

February 28, 2020

Tuuci Plantation MAX Cantilever Umbrella

Tuuci Plantation MAX Cantilever UmbrellaWe are less than a month away from the first day of spring! This week we are featuring the bold design of the TUUCI Plantation MAX Cantilever umbrella! This oversized parasol creates a cool retreat with warm ambiance!

Featuring an ultra-strong, aluminum-milled fulcrum and telescoping mast, the canopy easily closes over tables and chairs. This oversized parasol is available in a variety of shapes and sizes, with a maximum of 170 square feet of uninterrupted shade, making it perfect for any sun drenched environment!

Ideal for both contemporary and traditional spaces, the TUUCI Plantation MAX Cantilever umbrella features TUUCI’s Aluma-TEAKâ„¢ finish. This natural feel of a hardwood finish combined with the durability of TUUCI’s Armor-Wall Aluminum construction results in a structure resistant to seaside corrosion.

Available in a variety of colors, courtesy of the Sunbrella fabrics offered by TUUCI, this umbrella is quite simply the ultimate structure to hover between sky and surface!

For more information on patio furniture or umbrellas, check back soon as we feature yet another great selection by our manufacturers!