From Today’s Charlotte Woman
For 60 years, Colony’s distinct entrance with its black and white striped awnings has invited passersby to experience the true pleasures of buying home furnishings. Years ago, when people needed to buy furniture, they consulted with a furniture store’s interior designers and came up with a plan. Today, Colony still operates that way.
A true Charlotte landmark, Colony Furniture & Interiors is governed by the same customer-service standards today as when Mr. Merrill Gattis opened the doors in 1950. “Mr. Gattis started this store to offer (furniture) lines that were not otherwise available,” says Gail Maynard, vice president. The same people have been making our upholstered pieces for us since day one: they’re all custom made. This way we know exactly what’s under the cover to assure lasing quality.
Buying trips to Europe bring both reproduction and antique furniture and antique accessories at direct import prices. Plus, many lamps are made especially for Colony.
WHAT’S THE LOOK TODAY
Colony’s interior designer, Chris Stephens has noticed a shift away from heavily embellished furnishings to more streamlined shapes and the use of natural fibers. Popular now are tones of gold, green, aqua and taupe---creating simple, clean settings, but reds and browns are as strong as ever.
Stephens has been a professional designer for over 35 years, over 10 of which at Colony and is considered one of the top interior designers in Charlotte. Some clients ask what to do if they already have nice pieces in their homes, but would like a new look. “Paint, slipcover or reupholster,” he says, “then change accessories and pillows.” For those who have a limited budget, Stephens helps them create a plan for how to purchase high quality pieces over time.
“We have thousands of fabrics and trims,” says Maynard, and 15,000 square feet of space. People are stunned when they see the size of the showroom. Our designers are true professionals,” she continues. “We do floor plans, renderings and put together fabrics---and it’s still a free service.”
A TRUE HOME FURNISHINGS SHOP
Customers like the eclectic mix at the store, and many clients have been shopping at Colony for decades. The unusual and ever-changing selections keep shopping exciting and fun.
“We carry really comfortable chairs, sofas and ottomans in fabrics that feel good to the touch, like chenille, textured prints and soft cottons,” says Stephens, noting that clients are simplifying their homes by turning them into places of comfort and function, rather than display.
But there is still a need for people to embody a unique style in their homes, and Colony addresses this need by offering distinctive accessories. “We take ordinary things and use them in extraordinary ways,” says Maynard. “We take items such as vases, old ship’s lanterns, antique caddies and old instruments and have them made into lamps. We also carry beautiful chandeliers---most are imported from Italy---and all kinds of table top accessories, rugs, carpeting, mirrors and paintings. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve heard people say I wish I had found you sooner.”
CHANGING YOUR STYLE
Rather than jumping right in and buying a house full (or room full) of furniture that may not be suitable for you a year or two down the road, Stephens suggests you ask yourself a few key questions:
What is this change about?
Is it a personal wish for new surroundings?
Are you entertaining more or differently?
Do you have a cherished collection you want to feature?
Once you have ideas about what you want, Colony can furnish your home from attic to basement, including everything from the furniture itself to draperies and carpeting. “Or we’ll work with what you have,” says Stephens. “Charlotteans won’t give up their favorite things, which is exactly how they should decorate.” Colony handles the re-upholstery of furniture, as well, if a client wants to keep a well-made piece that has nice lines.
“If you come through our doors,” he says, “you’ll be met by professionals who are friendly and happy to help. After 60 years in business, we know how to meet every need.”
So you have a penchant for a European flavor, a blend of English, French and Italian? Or you’d love a traditional all-American look? Then you’re off to a good start here, says Stephens because “good taste is always in style.”
