Century Furniture

Century Furniture is an American luxury furniture brand known for its exceptional craftsmanship, sophisticated design, and extensive customization options. With a rich history that spans over 75 years, Century Furniture is recognized as one of the premier makers of high-end furniture, offering a wide range of styles that cater to both traditional and contemporary tastes.

Key Characteristics of Century Furniture

High-Quality Craftsmanship: Century Furniture is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and superior craftsmanship. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, with a focus on precision and quality. The company uses only the finest materials, including solid wood, premium veneers, and luxurious fabrics and leathers.

Customization: One of the hallmarks of Century Furniture is its extensive customization options. Customers can choose from a wide array of finishes, fabrics, trims, and hardware to create furniture that perfectly suits their personal style and needs. This level of customization is a significant draw for interior designers and discerning homeowners.

Collaborations with Designers: Century Furniture frequently collaborates with renowned interior designers and design firms to create exclusive collections. These partnerships have resulted in unique and stylish furniture lines that reflect the creative vision of top designers.

Sustainability: Century Furniture is committed to sustainable practices. The company uses environmentally friendly materials and processes whenever possible, and it sources wood from sustainable forests. They also focus on creating durable, heirloom-quality pieces that are meant to last for generations, further contributing to sustainability.

American-Made: Century Furniture takes pride in its American heritage. The majority of its products are made in Hickory, North Carolina, a region known for its rich history in furniture manufacturing. This commitment to American craftsmanship is a key part of the brand’s identity.

Company Background

Founding: Century Furniture was founded in 1947 by Harley Ferguson Shuford Sr. in Hickory, North Carolina. The company was established with a commitment to creating high-quality, stylish furniture that would stand the test of time.

Family-Owned: Century Furniture has remained a family-owned business, with the Shuford family continuing to play an active role in its leadership and operations. This continuity has helped the company maintain its commitment to quality and customer service over the decades.

Growth and Innovation: Over the years, Century Furniture has expanded its product offerings and embraced new technologies while maintaining its dedication to traditional craftsmanship. The company has grown to become one of the largest privately-owned furniture manufacturers in the world, with a global presence and a strong reputation for excellence.

Market Position

Century Furniture is positioned as a top-tier brand in the luxury furniture market. Its products are often featured in high-end homes, hotels, and luxury commercial spaces, as well as in the portfolios of leading interior designers. The brand is known for its ability to create both statement pieces and classic designs that enhance any interior.

Century Legacy

With over 75 years of history, Century Furniture has established itself as a leader in the luxury furniture industry. The brand’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation continues to attract customers who value timeless design and superior materials. Century Furniture remains a go-to choice for those seeking elegant, customizable furniture that adds a touch of luxury to their living spaces.

In summary, Century Furniture is a distinguished brand that embodies the best of American furniture-making traditions, offering exquisite, customizable pieces that blend classic elegance with modern innovation.

Century Furniture History

The history of Century Furniture is a remarkable journey that highlights the evolution of American furniture manufacturing, marked by innovation, craftsmanship, and a dedication to quality. Here’s a detailed look at the company’s history:

Founding and Early Years (1947-1960s)

Establishment: Century Furniture was founded in 1947 by Harley Ferguson Shuford Sr. in Hickory, North Carolina, a region known for its rich tradition in furniture manufacturing. Shuford’s vision was to create high-quality furniture that would be both beautiful and durable, embodying the finest in American craftsmanship.

Initial Focus: The company began by producing mid-range furniture, but Shuford quickly realized that the market for high-end, luxurious furniture was underserved. He shifted the company’s focus towards creating upscale furniture that appealed to discerning customers looking for superior craftsmanship and timeless designs.

Growth and Reputation: During its early years, Century Furniture quickly gained a reputation for excellence. The brand became known for its meticulously crafted pieces, which combined traditional woodworking techniques with stylish design. This reputation helped the company grow rapidly, establishing itself as a leader in the American furniture industry.

Expansion and Innovation (1970s-1990s)

Product Line Diversification: By the 1970s, Century Furniture had expanded its product offerings to include a wide range of styles and furniture types. The company began producing everything from classic, traditional pieces to more contemporary designs, catering to a broad array of tastes and preferences.

Product Line Diversification: By the 1970s, Century Furniture had expanded its product offerings to include a wide range of styles and furniture types. The company began producing everything from classic, traditional pieces to more contemporary designs, catering to a broad array of tastes and preferences.

Customization Services: Recognizing the growing demand for personalized furniture, Century Furniture introduced extensive customization options. Customers could choose from a wide range of finishes, fabrics, trims, and hardware to create bespoke pieces tailored to their specific needs and tastes. This level of customization set Century apart from many of its competitors and reinforced its status as a luxury brand.

The Shuford Family Legacy (1990s-Present)

Family Leadership: Century Furniture has remained a family-owned business since its founding. Harley Shuford’s sons, Harley Jr. and Robert Shuford, took on leadership roles within the company, continuing their father’s commitment to quality and innovation. The Shuford family’s involvement has been key to maintaining the company’s traditions and values over the years.

Expansion into International Markets: As the company grew, it expanded its reach into international markets, becoming a globally recognized brand. Century Furniture began exporting its products worldwide, further solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury furniture industry.

Modernization and Sustainability (2000s-Present)

Embracing Technology: In the 21st century, Century Furniture has embraced modern manufacturing technologies while still maintaining its commitment to traditional craftsmanship. This blend of old and new allows the company to produce furniture that is both innovative and timeless.

Sustainability Efforts: Century Furniture has also placed a strong emphasis on sustainability. The company uses environmentally responsible materials and manufacturing processes, sourcing wood from sustainable forests and reducing waste. This commitment to sustainability reflects the company’s forward-thinking approach and its dedication to preserving the environment for future generations.

Global Recognition: Today, Century Furniture is one of the largest privately-owned furniture manufacturers in the world, with a reputation for excellence that extends beyond the United States. The brand’s products are featured in luxury homes, hotels, and commercial spaces around the globe, and it continues to be a preferred choice for top interior designers.

Century Furniture’s Influence

Commitment to Quality: Throughout its history, Century Furniture has remained true to its founding principles of quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. The company’s dedication to producing high-end, customizable furniture has allowed it to thrive in a competitive market and maintain its status as a leader in the industry.

Cultural Impact: Century Furniture’s influence extends beyond the furniture industry. The brand’s collaborations with renowned designers and its commitment to sustainability have set trends and standards that others in the industry have followed.

Century Furniture’s history is a testament to the power of vision, family leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From its humble beginnings in Hickory, North Carolina, to its current status as a global leader in luxury furniture, Century Furniture has built a legacy that reflects the best of American craftsmanship and innovation. The company continues to honor its rich heritage while embracing the future, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the furniture industry for years to come.

Shop Century Furniture at Hickory Park Furniture in Hickory NC