David Francis Furniture :: Blog

I adore designing case pieces and love the versatility of chests…they can be used in virtually every room.

- Today, you may be buying a chest to store your clothing; but tomorrow, this same piece may be parked in the dining room and used as a buffet.
- Chests are great for hallways - place one near the front door to be used as a catch-all for your keys or position one down a long corridor to showcase a fabulous piece of art.
- Arrange a chest against an odd-sized wall or to use it to add life to a desolate corner.

Buy high-quality with clean lines…if/when your décor changes a few years down the road, you can change the finish and/or hardware for a fresh, new look. My advice to you: if you buy one piece of furniture this year, make it a chest!

I just read the December 2009 issue of Fast Company, a magazine I love for its emphasis on design, marketing and the latest technology. There was an article on DWR, the home furnishings retailer who carries iconic products from some of the most well-known furniture, textile and product designers.

DWR enjoyed amazing success in the past, but apparently, they veered away from the business practices that first made them reputable and successful. The most shocking, to me, is that they’ve allegedly knocked-off furniture from designers and other manufacturers and sold those items as their own. I don’t know if this accusation is true, but just the notion of knock-offs make my blood boil!

Yes, David Francis Furniture has been knocked off. They say imitation is the highest form of flattery, but I beg to differ. Designing a piece of furniture, or any product for that matter, takes creative vision and lots of revisions. A designer’s heart is worn on his sleeve as he puts himself “out there” by revealing his design.

All that hard work and time put into a product can be easily replicated in other countries…using factories with no regard for original design. The only motivation is money. And most times, the knock-off is poorly done – think faux designer handbags being sold on the streets of any big city.

I don’t “get” the conscience of anyone who is willing to manufacturer a knock. And as a consumer, I like products not only with good design, but also with a soul and a story. A cheap reproduction just isn’t going to do it for me.

I just got back from our first showing at HD Expo in Las Vegas, a huge expo and conference with thousands of hospitality buyers. Since I had no idea what to expect, we decided to go small with a 10’ X 10’ booth in the “new exhibitor” section of the first floor.

We were among every product imaginable in regards to the hospitality design trade – linens, bath products, lighting, accessories, technology, artwork and furniture!

After seeing our competitors’ products, quality and design, I felt more than ever that we have a tremendous opportunity to fill a specific need. Whereas our prices may not be as low as some, our quality, finishing and upholstery is unmatched. I also believe that our quantity pricing is extremely competitive and will stand up to a side-by-side comparison with any other high-end manufacturer.

The recognition and positive feedback we received during our maiden voyage at HD Expo has energized us more than ever to be the very best at what we do.

So, I return from HD Expo feeling good about our commitment to bringing the hospitality design community the finest products, the highest quality designs and the best service.

We look forward to exhibiting again at the 2009 HD Expo, with a bigger and better booth and more visibility.