Shining Stars

Becky Boswell Smith -- Home Accents Today, 5/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

Trying to define a Star of any kind is tough, as true in retail as any place. The Star store has its own distinct personality, usually a strong entrepreneurial owner who puts his or her stamp firmly on the product mix, the merchandising and the store's role in the community.

This year, the Home Accents Today's 50 Stars share all of these characteristics, but also are fiercely independent in their approaches to retailing. For some like Antique Garden and Fleuri, the product mix is the secret to success, often enhanced by adding antiques. Fleuri makes that combination even more fun with a frequent Paris Flea Market outdoor sale.

For some, that special touch of hospitality is important. It may be La Niche's espresso bar or Three French Hens' kid's room, but it's designed to make the customer happy to shop for a while.

The Web is becoming more important as stores such as Abode and At Home Furnishings prove. Location counts as All Thru the House, in business for 27 years, suffered a setback but reopened after being destroyed by Florida hurricanes in 2004.

Location also counts as Star stores occupy interesting quarters: an old Dr. Pepper plant became Richard Tubb Interiors and a historic barn became The Burlap Horse.

We congratulate the 2006 Stars. And we hope your store makes the 2007 list — send me a quick email at bbsmith@reedbusiness.com to tell us about your store.

The Home Accents Today Retail Stars for 2006

24 E SAVANNAH, GA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1.5 million

Family-owned retailer in business since 1983. Carries upper-middle price points in its 12,000-sq.-ft. showroom. Key vendors include Four Hands, American Leather, Robin Bruce and Jonathan Adler. Employs 20, including a sales staff of 12. Carries a wide variety of home accents, offering special orders especially in wall decor and high-end garden and patio accessories. Offers design services. www.twentyfoure.com

ABODE COVINGTON KY.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

An independent promotional to high-end furniture and home accents store started in 2000, targeting the 25- to 35-year-old consumer with largely contemporary styles. Relies heavily on its Web site to drive traffic to the store, using links to manufacturers' sites and offering coupons. Home accents include lamps, lighting fixtures, wall decor including mirrors, area rugs, tabletop and tabletop accessories and decorative accessories. Has 8,500 total square feet of selling space with 25% devoted to home accents. Average sales per square foot, $125. Key vendors include EQ3, Lite Source, Ariel and Big Fish. Home accents accounted for 20% of 2005 total sales; furniture, 75%; other merchandise, 5%. www.abode4me.com

ACCENT DESIGN STUDIO FORT WORTH TEXAS

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1.1 million

Family-owned home accent retailer, established in 1988. Offers middle to high price points in its 4,000-sq.-ft. showroom, with 60% devoted to home accents. Employs a team of nine, including five sales associates. Offers in-home design consultations. Plans to relocate current store to larger 6,000-sq.-ft. unit in June. Advertises through direct mail, newspaper, local magazines, yellow pages, special events and company Web site. Home accents include accent furniture, lamps, lighting fixtures, wall decor, mirrors, decorative pillows and throws, area rugs, tabletop and tabletop accessories and decorative accessories. Home accents accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 10%; furniture, 30%; other merchandise, 10%. Key vendors include Hooker, Lane, Bernhardt, Butler Tables, Palecek, Taylor King, Vanguard, Maitland-Smith and Habersham. www.accent-interiors.com

ACCENTS AND INTERIORS URBANDALE, IOWA

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned operation founded in 1990, with two stores, both in Urbandale, totaling 11,000 square feet of selling space. Home accents occupy about 40% of selling space. Price points range from promotional to high. Employs a team of 24, including 14 sales staff. Offers design services. Home accents accounted for 40% of 2005 total sales; furniture, 30%; accent furniture, 10%; and other products, 20%. Average sales per square foot, $210. Key vendors include Global Views, Guildmaster, Roma Moulding, Austin, Art & Frame Direct, CBK, Arteriors Home, Palecek and Shadow Catchers. www.accentsandinteriors.net

ALL THRU THE HOUSE VERO BEACH, FLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned store founded in 1979 carrying middle to high price points, with half of its 3,200 square feet of selling space devoted to home accents. Reopened in November 2005 after being destroyed by 2004 hurricanes. Has a team of five, including four sales people. Carries a full range of gifts and home accents, including accent furniture, lamps, area rugs, wall decor, permanent botanicals, tabletop and tabletop accessories, decorative pillows and throws and decorative accessories. Key vendors include Austin, Lady Primrose, Palecek, Lampe Berger USA, Swarovski Crystals, Thymes Ltd., Franz, Arthur Court, Ariel Art and Giuseppe Armani Porcelain.

ADIRONDACK STORE LAKE PLACID, N.Y.

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

The 4,750 sq.-ft. family-owned store, offering promotional to high price points, founded in 1955, was one of the first lodge-style stores. The owner uses his theatrical set-building background to create a changing environment while maintaining a casual, sporting life ambience. Special effects, such as an Adirondack lawn chair rebuilt as a rowboat to go with a Winslow Homer reproduction, along with donations to local charities garner both larger donations for the charity and favorable publicity for the store. Home accents account for 25% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 35%; and other merchandise, such as one-of-a-kind rustic furniture and accessories built by local craftspeople, 20%. Average sales per square foot, $340. Key vendors include Lee Industries, Flatrock Furniture, Sherrill Furniture, Palecek, Oklahoma Casting, Vintage Verandah, Pulvermacher, Woolrich, Pendleton Woolen Mills and Midwest Art & Frame. www.theadirondackstore.com

ANTIQUE GARDEN NORMAN, OKLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned store started in 1997. Carries mid-priced lines in 3,000 square feet of selling space with 80% devoted to home accents. The team of seven, including a sales staff of six, changes the display monthly, is considered fundamental to the store's allure. Many of the large furniture pieces are antique, bought in from Europe each spring. Hosts frequent wine and cheese events and relies heavily on direct mail. Home accents accounted for 40% of 2005 total sales; furniture, 20%; accent furniture, 25%; other products, such as new upholstered furniture, an in-house design studio with custom fabrics, apparel, antique furniture and lighting, 15%. Average sales per square foot, $260. Key vendors include Barreveld International, Aldik, CBK, Global Views, Old World Design Lighting, Archipelago, Illume, Lee Industries, Blanc D'Ivoire, Design Legacy, Timeworks and Studio Vertu. www.antiquegardenstyle.com

ARCANUM SAVANNAH, GA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned store founded in 2001 carrying upper-middle to high-end merchandise. Devotes half of its 2,000 square feet to home accents. Furniture accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales; home accents, 20%; accent furniture, 25%; and other merchandise, 5%. Average sales per square foot, $375. Carries a wide range of home accents including accent furniture, lamps, lighting fixtures, wall decor, mirrors, decorative pillows and throws, tabletop and tabletop accessories, garden and patio accessories and other decorative accessories. Key vendors include Global Views, Arteriors Home, Slatkin and Match.

ARCHIPELAGO PITTSFORD, N.Y.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned mid-priced to high-end retailer. Has 1,500 square feet of selling space, with 65% devoted to home accents. Located in a renovated historic stone-and-wood former boat house. In addition to signature handmade lampshades atop old and new lamps displayed on custom-made furniture, the store sells antiques, new accent furniture, handmade pottery, textiles, permanent botanicals, glassware, candles, patio accessories and jewelry. Home accents account for 45% of 2005 total sales; furniture, 25%; accent furniture, 20%; other products, 10%. Key vendors include Barreveld International, Vintage Verandah, AdV, Square Nest, New Growth Designs/TransEast, Root Candles, Luna Bella Products and Imax.

AREA HOUSTON

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned upper-middle and high-end 3,800-sq.-ft. store. A second unit is scheduled to open in Austin, Texas, in June. Offers design services. Makes itself known in the community by frequent participation in charity events. Changes displays weekly. Home accents accounted for 15% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 15%; furniture 60%; other merchandise, including jewelry, 10%. Key vendors include Arteriors Home and Dransfield & Ross.

ARRELLE FINE LINENS CHICAGO

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned business founded in 1981, specializing in luxury European linens in 1,800 square feet of selling space. Offers upper-middle to high-end price points. Has five employees, including three sales associates. Also carries accent furniture, lamps, wall decor, decorative pillows and throws, area rugs, tabletop and tabletop accessories and other decorative accessories. Plans to expand the current location this year. Average sales per square foot, $1,000. Key vendors include Sferra, SDH/Ygle, Home Treasures, Anichini, Bonjour of Switzerland, Anali and Fino Lino. www.arrelle.com

AT HOME FURNISHINGS BIRMINGHAM, ALA.

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $6.1 million

Family-owned store with 8,000 square feet of display space offering a broad range of home accent products at middle and upper-middle price points, much imported directly from India, China, Indonesia and Mexico. Displayed flea-market style, with displays changing daily. Also operates a companion store, 3 Sheets, with an additional 3,500 square feet of selling space. Advertising is concentrated using direct mail, local magazines, including Southern Accents, yellow pages and a company Web site. www.athome-furnishings.com

BOWHE & PEARE ARLINGTON, VA.

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned stores in Bethesda, Md., and Arlington, Va., with a combined 5,500 square feet of selling space, 80% in home accents, at upper-middle price points. The staff of 10 showcases accent furniture, lamps and lighting, wall decor, mirrors, tabletop and tabletop accessories and other decorative accessories. Home accents accounted for 25% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 25%; furniture, 20%; and other products, 30%. Key vendors are Butler Specialty, Oopsy Daisy and Palecek. www.bowheandpeare.com

THE BURLAP HORSE BOERNE, TEXAS

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned specialist offers mid-priced and high-end goods in 2,060 square feet of selling space, about 80% devoted to home accents. Housed in an award-winning adaptation of an historic barn. Products are offered in a gallery-style setting with a wood-burning fireplace and built-in sound system. Known for community service and in-store events (21 in 2005). Offers design services. Home accents accounted for 60% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 20%; other merchandise, such as spa/bath products, pet products and luxury bedding, 10%. Adding gourmet kitchen in 2006. Average sales per square foot, $131. Key vendors include Match, Caldrea, Western Ware, K & K Interiors, Murray Feiss Imports, Sweet Dreams, Global Views and Katherine's Collections at Silver Lake. www.burlaphorse.com

COOL CATS HOT DOGS HIGHLANDS, N.C.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Founded in 2004, the family-owned retailer carries mid-price to high-end lines showcasing styles from formal to funky, including home decor for the pampered pet in a 900 sq.-ft. store arranged in a French flea-market style. Home accents accounts for 73% of selling space, as well as 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 13%; furniture, 2.5%; and other merchandise including jewelry, pet beds, feeding stations and collars and leashes, 11.5%. Average sales per square foot, $278. Key vendors include Dorian Webb Designs, Luna Bella Designs, Barkology, Aidan Gray, Cindy Ciskowski Lighting, Seda France, Up Country and MosaicWares. www.coolcatshotdogs.com

CURIOUS SOFA PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KAN.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million

With a staff of seven, the store creates a comfortable, stylish atmosphere with innovative displays reminiscent of a European farmhouse, using a mix of painted antiques, slipcovered furniture, and handcrafted reproductions. Offers mid-priced to high-end lines in its 2,700 total square feet of selling space with 90% devoted to home accents. Home accents accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 10%; furniture, 20%; and other merchandise, including bath and body, jewelry, culinary accents, candles, books and stationary, 20%. Average sales per square foot, $350. Key vendors include Taylor Scott, Corsican, Barreveld International, Bella Notte Linens, Vagabond Vintage Furnishings, Carol Bolton, Bobo, Aidan Gray, Votivo, L'Occitane, Taschen, Cavallini, Pine Cone Hill and Hillhouse Naturals. www.curioussofa.com

DAVID ANTHONY'S FUQUAY-VARINA, N.C.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned, mid-priced retailer founded in 1988. Has 1,800 square feet of selling space with 65% devoted to home accents. Maintains a bridal registry and wish lists. The staff of six concentrates on creating a welcoming atmosphere with personalized service. Offers monogramming on items such as purses and baby gifts, as well as personalized paper goods. Advertises through newspaper, local magazines, special events and Web site. Key vendors include Andrea by Sadek, Toyo Trading, Cape Craftsmen, Evergreen Enterprises-Evergreen & Cypress Home and Highland Graphics. www.davidanthonys.com

THE DECORATOR'S EDGE THOMASVILLE, N.C.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $2 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 1979. Home accents occupy about 40% of the 7,000-sq.-ft. showroom/design area. Carries mid-priced to high-end lines. Home accents accounted for 20% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 15%; furniture, 35%; interior design services, 30%. Average sales per square foot, $286. Key vendors include Woodmark Inc., Rowe, Swaim, Magnussen Home, The Uttermost Company, Sedgefield by Adams, John-Richard, Kessler and Artistica Metal Design. www.decoratorsedge.com

THE DECORUM PITTSBURG, KAN.

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 2002. Home accents accounts for about 30% of the 2,700 square feet of combined selling space and 30% of 2005 total sales. Price-point concentration is promotional to middle. Whimsy and personalization are the store's hallmarks, along with special events. Carries accent furniture, lamps, wall decor, gifts, tabletop and tabletop accessories, garden decor, and gifts, baby gifts, jewelry and accessories. Key vendors include CBK, Two's Company, Paragon, Propac Images, Ganz, Imax, Mud Pie and Tyler Candle.

D'HIERRO PLANO, TEXAS

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned retailer with 11,000 square feet of selling space, about 70% devoted to home accents. Price points range from middle to high. Offers design services. Also sells online. Home accents accounted for 40% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 40%; furniture, 10% and other merchandise, 10%. Average sales per square foot, $200. Key vendors include Castilian Imports, Emerson et Cie, Raschella Collection, Old World Design, Lam Lee Group, Maitland-Smith and Theodore Alexander. www.dhierro.com

DIANE JOHNSON INTERIORS ALPHARETTA, GA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Founded in 1992. Carries mid-priced to high-end merchandise. The 5,600-sq.-ft. showroom with 85% dedicated to home accents is an offshoot of a full-service interior design firm. Designers work with any client from small accessorizing jobs to designing whole houses. Holds special events such as a Champagne Christmas Open House with a special Radko ornament available only then. Home accents, accent furniture and furniture each accounted for 30% of 2005 total sales; other merchandise, 10%. Key vendors include Chelsea House, John-Richard, Robert Allen @ Home, Schumacher, Oriental Danny, International Arts and Dessau Home. www.dianejohnsoninteriors.com

DOLCE VITA HOME DECOR TEMECULA, CALIF.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned store founded in 2002, carrying price points ranging from promotional to mid-priced in 2,100 square feet of selling space. Home accents accounted for 70% of 2005 total sales; furniture, 5%; accent furniture, 5%; and other products, such as gifts, candles and holiday decor, 20%. Offers matting and framing service in addition to framed art and prints. Key vendors include Picture Galleries, The Uttermost Company, Aldik, Sullivans, Root Candles, Highland House and Eastern Accents. www.dolcevitadecor.com

ELIZABETH HOUSE ST. LOUIS

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Selling promotional to high-end price points in 1,040 square feet of selling space, the store features a tight color palette of creams, tans, browns and blacks. All furniture is custom-designed by the owner, plus one-of-kind finds from European flea-market shopping trips. Introduced a Little Bit nursery line in December 2004, featuring custom crib bedding, cribs, organic sweaters, scarves and cashmere baby blankets. Offers studio photography to include product, Web site, lifestyle shots commercially as well as non-traditional expectant mothers, infants and children shots. Interior design services and consulting also available. Home accents accounted for 30% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 30%; furniture, 25%; and other products, 15%. Average sales per square foot, $195. Key vendors include America Retold, Barreveld International and Vagabond Vintage. www.elizabethhouse.us

ERIKA READE ATLANTA

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 1986. Located in a strip mall, the 3,800 square feet of selling space is open and airy, with vignettes of luxury bedding in the rear of the store and interesting tabletop displays throughout, showcasing a frequently changing and eclectic inventory. Concentrates advertising in direct mail, local and national magazines. Home accents accounted for 60% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; and furniture, 20%. Key vendors include Jan Barboglio, Match and Pine Cone Hill.

FLEURI CARMICHAEL, CALIF.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Founded in 1998. Home accents occupy 90% of the selling space in the 3,500-sq.-ft. specialty store. Products are displayed in home setting vignettes that change monthly. Quarterly outdoor "Paris Flea Market" events play up special Paris finds from shopping trips to Europe, along with high-quality local vendors invited for the occasion. Offers promotional to high-end merchandise. Home accents accounted for 25% of 2005 total sales; furniture, 25%; accent furniture, 25%; and other products, such as custom seasonal items and antiques, 25%. Key vendors include America Retold, Barreveld International, GiannaRose, Mary-Lake Thompson, Midwest, Cody Foster and La Lavande

FRONT & CENTRE FERNANDINA BEACH, FLA.

3 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Founded in 1988, the family-owned, three-store specialist sells promotional to mid-priced merchandise in 6,000 total square feet of selling space. Employs a team of five. Targets the second-home and condo market. Home accents accounted for 80% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%. Average sales per square foot, $100. Advertising is concentrated in newspapers, yellow pages and special events.

HOME ACCENT INTERIORS Buford, Ga.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Carries upper-middle price points in 14,000 square feet of selling space, housed in a 115-year-old former hotel. Home accents account for 65% of selling space and 55% of 2005 total sales. Remaining sales are divided among accent furniture, 15%; furniture, 20%; and fabric and custom window treatments made in an onsite workroom, 10%. Key vendors include Mohawk, Masland Rugs and Carpeting, Excursions, Hammary, Wellington Hall, Bernhardt, Kravet, Crystal Lighting, Savoy House, Hempstead, Nourison, Fabricut, F. Schumacher & Co., Currey & Company, Bradburn Gallery and Capitol Lighting. www.homeaccentinteriors.com

THE HOME ACCESSORY COMPANY SAN ANTONIO

2 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $2.1 million

Established in 2002, the original store is 3,000 square feet, and a new 12,000-sq.-ft. store was opened in September 2005, both in San Antonio. The two have a combined 11,400 square feet of selling space, about 75% devoted to home accents. Sells upper-middle and high price points. Provides custom floral arrangements and interior design services. Also carries European antiques. Home accents accounted for 60% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 20%. Average sales per square foot, $370. Key vendors include Maitland-Smith, Theodore Alexander, Habersham, John-Richard, Bradburn Co., Global Views, The Uttermost Company, Imax, TIC, Palecek, Pride Sasser, Prestige Arts and Frederick Cooper.

IN HOME FURNISHINGS NORWOOD, MASS.

5 STORES; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $13 million

Family-owned stores with locations in Natick, Danvers, Norwood, Boston and Hyannis, Mass., with a combined 60,000 square feet of display space. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Price points range from upper-middle to high. Products offered include lamps, lighting fixtures, wall decor, mirrors, permanent botanicals and garden and patio accessories. Also offers one-of-a-kind antique reproductions. The Natick and Danvers stores also feature Oriental rug galleries with product imported directly from Persia, Pakistan and China. Key vendors include Bernhardt, Rowe, McCreary Modern and Kalanik. www.inhome.com

LA NICHE PARK CITY, UTAH

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Plans to open a second store in nearby Salt Lake City this summer. Current store, carrying upper-middle price points has 1,300 square feet of selling space, 70% devoted to home accents. Has an espresso bar to lure and keep customers lingering. Limits advertising to its yellow pages listing. Carries gourmet items as well as a full range of home accents products. Also sells online at its Web site. www.frenchcountryfarm.com

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE, INC. SARASOTA, FLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1.5 million

Family-owned, high-end lighting specialist. Will complete 4,000-sq.-ft. expansion of existing 2,000-sq.-ft. showroom in October. Carries accent furniture, lamps, lighting fixtures, wall decor, mirrors and tabletop accessories. Lamps and lighting account for 90% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 5%; and other home accents, 5%. Key vendors include Tech Lighting and Bruck. www.lights-sarasota.com

M. BRANN & CO. MASHPEE, MASS.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned retailer carries promotional to mid-priced lines in a 1,500-sq.-ft. store. Did extensive renovation and completed a 30% expansion in 2005. Has five employees. Home accents accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales (60% of selling space); accent furniture, 10%; and other merchandise, such as American and international crafts, 40%. Average sales per square foot, $265. Key vendors include Mariposa, Story People, Ganz, CBK, Vietri, Design Ideas, N.C.E., Two's Co., Bella Bella and C.T.I.

MACDAVID & CO. ALEXANDER CITY, ALA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Brand-new 2,000-sq.-ft. store founded in 2005 focusing on the seasonal upscale lake/resort market. Carries mid-priced to high-end price points. Home accents accounted for 35% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 15%; other merchandise, such as candles, lotions, chocolates, local original art, note pads and jewelry, 50%. Making a hit with customers by handing out samples, small gifts and personal greetings with great packaging. Key vendors include Votivo Candles, Square Nest, Design Design and Stonewall Kitchen.

MADISON PARK SARASOTA, FLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned business focusing on upper-middle and high price points in 2,100 square feet of selling space, 70% devoted to home accents. Pays special attention to visual merchandising, frequently changing window displays and rotating merchandise to keep the store fresh. Home accents accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 25%; with the remainder split between furniture and other merchandise. Uses designer showcases as well as more traditional special events, local magazine advertising and its Web site to advertise. Key vendors include Global Views, Interlude Studio, Lunares, Michael Aram, Robert Abbey and Peter Casablanca. www.madisonparksarasota.com

MAGNOLIA TAMPA, FLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned specialist founded in 2001 offering price points ranging from promotional to high-end in 2,200 square feet of selling space. Concentrates on direct mail for advertising, has a Web site under construction. Home accents accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 30%. Key vendors include Oly Studio, Mitchell Gold, Jonathan Adler, Palecek and Jamie Young.

MORNING 'TIL NIGHT WARREN, N.J.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned retailer with 1,500 square feet of selling space, 50% devoted to home accents. Founded in 2003, employs a team of five, including two designers. Offers an in-home accessorizing service and a design service. Price points range from middle to high. Never orders the same decorative item twice so consumers know their home is customized for them. Home accents accounted for 50% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 20%; other products, such as bedding and bath accents, 10%. Average sales per square foot, $666. Key vendors include Palecek, Decorize, Global Views, Interlude Studio and Vanguard.

NATURES HARVEST INC. WAYZATA, MINN.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 1990. Price points range from promotional to high. Garden center/live plants and flowers accounted for 52.5% of 2005 total sales, home accents, the remainder. Accent products carried include accent furniture, lamps, lighting, wall decor, decorative pillows, permanent botanicals, area rugs, tabletop and tabletop accessories, garden accessories and other decorative accessories. Depends largely on word-of-mouth for advertising. Key vendors include Harvest Goods, Department 56, Imax and Import Collection. www.naturesharvest.info

THE NEST BARRINGTON, R.I.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 2001. Home accents occupies about one-half of the 2,700 square feet of selling space. Carries a mix of middle and high price points. Home accents accounted for 25% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 35%; furniture 40%. Average sales per square foot, $600. Made Rhode Island Monthly magazine's Best of Shopping list for home accessories in 2003. Key vendors include Cisco Brothers, South Cone Trading Co., Redford House, Currey & Company, Tyndale, Vietri, Pine Cone Hill, Bella Note, Dash & Albert and Lee Inds. www.thenestfurnishings.com

PFUNDAMENTALS BEND, ORE.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 1991. Entire 1,300 square feet of selling space is devoted to home accents, with price points ranging from promotional to high. Provides design services. Uses and sells unique house plants to create atmosphere throughout the store. Home accents accounted for 88% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 12%. Average sales per square foot, $130. Key vendors include Import Collection, Lamarche, Tag and Imax.

PIONEER LINENS WEST PALM BEACH, FLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $3 million – $4.9 million

A fourth-generation family-owned company focusing on upper-middle and high-end product in 10,000 square feet of selling space. Its reputation for quality landed the store the job of furnishing linens for the G8 Summit in Sea Island, Ga., in 2004. Has 25 employees, including a sales team of 12. In addition to luxury bed, bath and table linens and bath accessories, carries decorative pillows and throws, area rugs and tabletop and tabletop accessories. Key vendors include Anichini, Espalma, George-Henry, Home Treasures, Yves Delorme, Sferra Bros and Casa Dolce. www.pioneerlinens.com

POINT B GALLERY BRICK, N.J.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

A 1,400-sq.-ft. retail offshoot of an architectural and interior design practice, featuring custom artwork by artist Paul Barlo, augmented by carefully selected accessory items. Price points range from promotional to high. Average sales per square foot, $200. In addition to artwork, carries accent furniture, lamps, lighting, wall decor, decorative pillows, permanent botanicals, window treatments, tabletop and tabletop accessories. Home accents account for 75% of sales; accent furniture, 25%. www.pointbgallery.com

REINCARNATIONS FURNISHINGS WASHINGTON

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Founded in 1993 with a mission to bring consumers unusual decorative accessories with a high-end look, but at moderate prices. Home accents, described as "icing on the cake," and "small stuff, big impact," on the Web site, occupies about 55% of the 6,500 square feet of selling space. Relies on its Web site and newspaper advertising. Provides design service and six- to eight-week delivery on most custom orders. Carries furniture, lighting and accessories such as vases and urns, art, candleholders, bookends, mirrors, sculptures, pillow and rugs, including seasonal pieces. www.reincarnationsfurnishings.com

SANTORO & COMPANY BRIDGETON, N.J.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Founded in 1996, offers an eclectic combination of mid-priced gifts, designer lamps, oriental rugs, fine antiques, jewelry, candles, florals, architectural items, home accents and reproductions in 5,250 square feet of selling space. Won the Silver Award For Store Design in Gifts & Decorative Accessories' 2003 Retailer Excellence Awards, and was a 2005 ARTS Awards winner for the East/Atlantic region. Home accents accounted for 30% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 30%; furniture 30%; and jewelry and antiques, 10%. Key vendors include CBK, Art In Motion, Pacific Rim, Imax, Foreside, A.A. Importing, Nadeau, K&K Interiors, The Bramble Co., Barnstorm, C D M and Gift Craft. www.santoroandco.com

SENSE OF PLACE FORT COLLINS, COLO.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned retailer with a staff of 21, including 16 sales staff. About 70% of the 4,300 square feet of selling space is devoted to home accents. Price points range from promotional to middle. Creates ambience with displays such as a turn-of-century elevator to create an intimate vignette, an antique carousel horse perched from the ceiling, and vintage gazebos to create a room within a room. Home accents accounted for 55% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 5%; other merchandise, 20%. Average sales per square foot, $325. Key vendors include Pacific Rim, Ashton Co., CBK, Import Collection, Sullivans, Imax and Bailey Street.

SIGNATURE INTERIORS TULSA, OKLA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Family-owned retailer founded in 1995. Carrying upper-middle and high price points in 7,500 square feet of retail space. Completed expansion to 10,000 square feet in April. Home accents occupies 40% of selling space. Changes its trend-setting vignettes seasonally, down to the colors on the walls. Home accents accounted for 30% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; furniture, 20%; fresh flowers, 30%. Key vendors include Austin, Montaage and Decorative Arts. www.tulsasignaturedesign.com

THE STUDIO FRENCHTOWN, N.J.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: Less than $1 million

Carries middle and high price points in 3,800 square feet of selling space. The product mix from approximately 600 vendors includes art glass, vases, glassware, tabletop, fragrances, soaps, candles and candleholders, furniture, lamps, rugs, frames, fine art, clocks and a limited selection of garden and patio accessories. Offers gift baskets and limited design services. Home accents accounted for 20% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 20%; and furniture, 60%. Average sales per square foot, $250. Key vendors include Lee Inds., Sarreid, Morgan Hill, Robert Abbey, Merida Meridian and Thymes Ltd. www.greathomestyle.com

THREE FRENCH HENS WILDWOOD, MO.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned specialist opened September 2003 with 10,000 square feet of selling space. Offers mid-priced and high-end merchandise. The boutique has European antiques, reproductions, home furnishings, accessories and gifts arranged in a foyer, a library, a design room, a Safari room, a lodge room, a shabby chic room, a garden room, a boy's room and a girl's room. Features the Michael Perry collection, a line of architecturally designed furniture made from salvaged antique flooring, porch posts, windows and doors. Offers upholstery from Highland House, Harden, Paul Robert, Taylor Scott, Hickory House, Leather Craft, Old Hickory, Duralee and Design Master. Provides design services. Offers complimentary coffee and latte to customers while they browse the store. A room is also available for the children to watch a kids movie while parents shop. Home accents accounted for 35% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 30%; furniture, 30% and other merchandise, 5%. www.threefrenchhensantique.com

RICHARD TUBB INTERIORS BIRMINGHAM, ALA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $2.8 million

Housed in the historic Dr. Pepper Bottling Plant, the 9,300 sq.-ft. unit has 6,600 square feet of showroom space. The industrial atmosphere features concrete floors and brick walls. The showroom is laid out in room vignettes, and product selection ranges from upholstered furniture, lamps and lighting to rugs, decorative accessories, and original works of art from local artists. Each Wednesday a visual designer comes in to "fluff" the showroom, giving the space a mini-makeover. Home accents account for 25% of income and vendor selections include Home Carter, Highland House, Stanford, Vanguard, Pearson, Robin Bruce, Visual Comfort, New Growth, Arteriors, Peacock Alley and Textillery Weavers. Richard Tubb fosters an old-fashioned way of doing business; there are no computers or cash registers. www.santoroandco.com

TUSCANY FINE FURNISHINGS ROSWELL, GA.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned business offering upper-middle and high-end products in 11,000 square feet of selling space, about 55% devoted to home accents. Completed a 3,000-sq.-ft. expansion in March. Offers design services. Home accents accounted for 30% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 25%; furniture 25%; other merchandise, 20%. Key vendors include Ambella Home, American Drew, Ara Collection, Artistica, Aspen, Bailey Street, Bernhardt, Butler Specialty, Century, Charleston Forge, Casa Bique, CBK, Classic Design, Design Master, Elements By Grapevine, Evans Designs, Garcia Imports, Global Views, Goshen, Hammary, Heather Brooke, Hekman, Henredon, Hickory White, Imax, Interlude Home, John-Richard, Lam Lee, Largo, Maitland Smith, Murray Feiss, Royal Patina, Steinworld, The Uttermost Company, TS Berry and Vintage Verandah. www.tuscanyfinefurnishings.com

VALENTINE INTERIORS BRENTWOOD, TENN.

1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2005 TOTAL SALES: $1 million – $2.9 million

Family-owned specialist, founded in 2000, features a professional design staff specializing in residential and corporate design. About 75% of the 2,000 square feet of selling space is devoted to home accents. Price points range from promotional to high. Advertising is concentrated in direct mail, yellow pages, special events, including seminars and speakers, a Web site and a billboard. Home accents accounted for 75% of 2005 total sales; accent furniture, 10%; furniture, 10%; and other merchandise, such as luxury linens and stationery, 5%. Key vendors include Chelsea Interiors, Currey & Company, Bradburn Lighting, John-Richard, Wildwood, Jeanne Reed, Century Furniture and Pearson. www.valentineinteriors.com

Adirondack Store

At Home Furnishings

Curious Sofa

In Home Furnishings

Natures Harvest

Magnolia

Santoro & Company

Richard Tubb Interiors