Maybe April 14-18 will be your first ever trip to High Point Market. Maybe you’ve been so many times you’ve lost count.
But whether you’re a newbie or seasoned pro, you’ll want in on these insider tips and lesser-known gems of information from industry veterans Richard Codanti and Libby Langdon.
Richard Codanti, owner of Bella Casa in Portland, Oregon
Why do you go to High Point Market?
Richard Codanti: I’ve been going to High Point twice a year for 20 years now. It’s not just a market to buy furniture and case goods, it’s also a great show for accessories, art and one-of-a-kind finds. It has the most to see out of all the shows, and, yes, you can’t be too hard on yourself because you won’t be able to see it all. It’s huge, basically an entire town of showrooms. I love it for all it has to offer and for inspiring me to go back home with new fresh ideas.
What’s your strategy for working the market?
RC: To do it right, you’ll need to work the show 10 plus hours a day, and you still won’t be able to see it all. Take lots of pictures. All the products will start to roll together in your head at the end of the market. I take a photo of the showroom name followed by photos of things I like or buy in an effort to keep track of it all.
Where do you find unexpected market surprises?
RC: If you’re in the mood for a hunt, the old section of Market Square has a lot of unique showrooms and one-of-a-kind items for sale. You’ll know you’re there when you hit the creaky wooden floors that are original to the building, which was once a factory. Two hundred Steele is also a great building with some amazing showrooms.
What's your favorite market snack?
RC: Some of the larger showrooms do a great lunch and dinner, but you can find snacks most everywhere. Global Views (IHFC D220) always inspires me with lots of color and fun ways to display their product, but it’s also a great happy hour spot to hit up for drinks and their famous jalapeño cheese squares. They even give the recipe on their website.
While we’re on the subject, where do you like to eat and drink in High Point?
RC: I love dinner at the amazing Theodore Alexander showroom (229 W. Russell Ave). You have to carry the line to get in, but they really know how to put on an impressive spread. In the evening, Phillips Collection (IHFC C202) has a great buffet and strong shots to help you get into the buying mood. Sometimes, they’ll even have live music.
Where do you go when you want to have some quiet time to clear your head or rest your feet?
RC: If I have time to relax or catch up on emails, I always enjoy the space on the second floor of 200 Steele. It’s bright and quiet and feels like a high-end hotel lobby with comfy sofas.
Where is your favorite High Point spot to connect with industry friends?
RC: The Accessories Resource Team always throws some amazing parties. It’s a great network of people and friends.
Libby Langdon, interior designer, author, product designer, makeover television personality and the creative force behind Libby Interiors Inc., in New York City
Why do you go to High Point?
Libby Langdon: I was actually born and raised in High Point. I go to market to show the collections I design for KAS Rugs, Crystorama and Bradburn Home as well as to expand my interior design resources and discover the latest trends in home furnishings.
What are your favorite showrooms for creative ideas and inspiration?
LL: I always start in Interhall. The showrooms are smaller, but it’s the perfect place to discover creative companies that are new to market. I never miss Hickory Chair (Market Square 314), Bungalow 5 (IHFC’s Interhall 610), Wendover Art (IHFC C215) and Hickory White (309 N. Hamilton St.), and I always like to see how Bernhardt (IHFC D601) reinvents new materials and silhouettes.
Where do you find unexpected market surprises?
LL: I love Texture Imports (517 South Hamilton St.). They fly so far under the radar there’s no website. It’s a large collection of one-of-a-kind accessories using reclaimed roots, rattan, blown glass, resin, iron and natural materials. They also have handcrafted tables, baskets, mirrors, consoles and seating. It’s such a hidden gem.
What's your favorite market snack?
LL: Canapés and a glass of something sparkling at Bradburn Home (200 Steele). They also create a fun daily cocktail, which I love to enjoy as I walk through the showroom.
While we’re on the subject, where do you like to eat and drink in High Point?
LL: For laid-back drinks and appetizers beyond downtown High Point, I like the Wine & Taps Bar at REAL Kitchen & Market. And for a total departure from the market atmosphere, there’s a place called Tipsy’z Tavern on Westchester Drive. It’s a super casual bar and restaurant that serves great, big burgers. Some nights they have live music. It’s full of locals, and it’s off the market radar!
Where do you go when you want to have some quiet time to clear your head or rest your feet?
LL: I love the glass-enclosed walkway that connects IHFC Main to the Wrenn Wing on the third floor. It’s quiet with little window seats, so you can plop down your bags and enjoy the natural light. If it’s nice out, I love the little hidden back garden patio at OLY (106 N. Wrenn) and the outdoor patio next to Four Hands (Showplace 4101).
What do you know about High Point that others might not?
LL: For the last few markets, Emerywood Country Club has opened up their private dining rooms to non-member market attendees. This is a great choice if you want a nice, quiet spot to have a conversation without the loud buzz of market showrooms and parties. The food is great, and it’s full of wonderful southern hospitality. A super special place all designers should check out is the Beinenstock Furniture Library. It has the world’s largest collection of books on the history and design of furniture, interiors, architecture, textiles, finishes and construction and is a treasure trove of all things design. Plus, real North Carolina-style barbeque at Kepley’s is just a few blocks away.
What’s your favorite off-the-beaten-path High Point gem? Share with us in the comments below.
