HIGH POINT, N.C.–Domus Ventures, known for both its casual and indoor furniture distributed throughout Europe, as well as in Australia, the Middle East, North Africa and Asia, introduced its casual line to the United States at the grand opening of its headquarters and showroom here on April 7.
The vendor, which was founded only 12 years ago, according to Dave Hill, manager of U.S. operations, said the firm is introducing 1,250 SKUs.
Product categories include seating, dining and occasional items, such as bars and bar stools, with many items suitable for indoors as well as outdoors. Materials include wicker rattan, loom (woven vinyl) and teak.
Asked why the company decided to enter the U.S. market at this time, given the downward trend of the economy, Hill responded that the “groundwork was laid prior to this time.”
Notwithstanding the economy, however, Hill said that Domus Ventures executives are optimistic, and felt that “it was time” to sell here. The company’s products will be retailed through specialty stores such as Smith & Hawken, Crate & Barrel and Frontgate, he said. Retailers will have wholesale access to the company’s catalog.
Although the firm sells bedroom furniture in Europe, it has decided to forego that category in the United States. “Their bedding sizes are different,” Hill explained, noting that European beds tend to be lower than American beds. Furthermore, European “taste differs,” he said.
Among Domus Ventures’ introductions are the Red Chili Collection, a seating and dining combo that comprises teak, stainless steel and vinyl wicker.
Also new is Cubu Gray, a rattan collection that retains a weathered look well suited for resort residences.
The new headquarters, at 215 Church Ave., in High Point, will be open to the trade year-round.
— Nathan Weber
