Four industry leaders were inducted into the American Furniture Hall of Fame during last month’s High Point Market.
Joining 81 Hall of Fame members are Manuel Capó, former chief executive officer of El Dorado Furniture; Darrell and Stella Harris, president and CEO and executive vice president of Furnitureland South; and Bob Timberlake, president of Bob Timberlake, Inc.
The international banquet was sold out and attended by over 400 retailers, buying group members, interior designers, manufacturers, suppliers and association leaders. It was hosted by Jane Seymour, actress, author, artist and designer.
“Each fall, we honor an elite group of Industry Fellows with induction into the Hall of Fame, the industry’s most prestigious and highest honor,” said Jeff Cook, president of the American Furniture Hall of Fame Foundation. “Selected by a vote of the members of the Foundation, they will forever be remembered for their contributions and passion for this industry. We congratulate each of them for achievements, innovation and generosity as they join the ranks of the Hall of Fame.”
Manuel Capó (1925-2009), grew his family business, El Dorado Furniture, into one of the top 50 of more than 35,000 furniture stores in the United States. As chief executive officer, he led the charge in exceptional customer service, targeting ethnic markets, offering same-day delivery, promoting the store as a brand and giving back to the community and industry. He created the unique concept of a “main street” with realistic building facades, old fashioned street lamps and benches opening into galleries. All seven of Capó’s sons worked side-by-side with him, along with 10 of his 20 grandchildren.
Darrell and Stella Harris founded and have grown Furnitureland South into one of the world’s largest (1.3 million square feet) retail furnishings showplace and an international furniture destination selling to consumers in more than 50 countries. Focused on adding value for the consumer, the family company has pioneered styled vignettes, a “green” gallery to promote sustainable practices, a national delivery team, and shopping amenities such as orientation movie theaters, a full-service restaurant, a coffee house and a lounge.
Bob Timberlake, an internationally recognized artist who has become a brand, partnered with Lexington Home Brands in 1990 to create “The World of Bob Timberlake.” The coordinated lifestyle displays of his products include furniture, textiles, wall décor, floor coverings, lighting, tabletop, gifts, books and collectible items in 20 licensed categories.