Homecrest to unveil deep-seating collections, sling and Permaplush seating at Casual Show

Staff -- Casual Living, 9/1/2005 12:00:00 AM

Homecrest anticipated an announcement early this month about a change in ownership of the Wadena, Minn.-based outdoor furniture manufacturer as part of principal owner Don Bottemiller's retirement plans.

"We can tell you that we're very pleased with the direction we're going," Homecrest President and CEO John Sundet said, although confidentiality constraints kept details from being available as this issue went to press.

Based on dealers' feedback at premarket, many changes were made to Homecrest debuts, including four deep seating and three sling seating collections. The 50-year-old manufacturer also is expanding its alternative top table program with marble and granite options.

Permaplush, an innovative upholstered all-season seating line, will be available on select 2006 Homecrest padded sling collections including Alvia, Alaire, Kensington, Palisade, Trinity, Holly Hill, Affinity, Manor House and Florida.

Homecrest's three sling debuts are: Bastone, inspired by coastal environs with arm details resembling bent reed; Samara, featuring an elegant basket-weave design; and Haven, double-layered seating available in swivel rocker, dining chair and motion chat chair. New this season is a series of cast aluminum tables specifically designed to coordinate with Bastone, Samara and Haven collections.

Homecrest's new cushion collections are cast and extruded aluminum groups with wide armrests and elegantly detailed backs. Mira Bay includes a chat chair, ottoman, dining chair, swivel rocker, sofa and table bases; Divano combines a Mission style with modern flair; Dorchester, inspired by Old World, artisan quality with swivel rocker and dining chair plus a skirted cushion with custom trim and welting options; and Trinidad, boasting clean lines and classic styling.

"Our deep seating cushion collections successfully integrate today's style with classic comfort, a hallmark of Homecrest, and address a growing demand for casual furnishings that complement consumers' interior designs and create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces," Sundet said. "Our new cushion collections offer a greater selection of affordable luxury designs, available in 11 frame finishes and more than 100 fabrics for 2006."

Homecrest's Artisan Cafe collection was created in response to emerging outdoor living trends in urban and loft settings. Ideal for bistro groupings, balconies and other small seating areas, the collection includes versatile steel armless chair designs ranging from contemporary to traditional styles.

The Divano armchair