For over 60 years, both local and national designers and customers have turned to Hickory Furniture Mart as their furniture and design resource. Known for our exceptional quality craftsmanship, local factory deals, and unparalleled selection, we pride ourselves on being a trusted resource for experienced designers and customers seeking quality furnishings at unbeatable prices. Below you will find expert advice from some of our favorite designers on making your time at the Mart as seamless as possible.
- Start by creating a detailed list of all furniture and accessories you need, organized and itemized by room.
- Take advantage of our online Room Planner to create floor plans with precise dimensions for each space in your home. Make sure to print and bring copies of each floor plan you created to share with your designer or sales associate.
- Request our latest issue of the Buying Guide to stay informed on new arrivals and manufacturers, ensuring you prioritize your must-visit showrooms upon arrival.
- Check for any promotions, upcoming sale events, or Special Incentive Programs that may apply to you, whether you are a military member, victim of a natural disaster, or professional interior designer.
- Explore our online Off-the-Floor Product Catalog, which features both custom and clearance items that are readily available.
- If you plan on enjoying an extended stay in Hickory, be sure to ask about our Discounted Furniture Shopper Rates, available at several partner hotels in the area.
- Don't forget your phone/ iPad and a tape measure - you will be surprised at how often you need both.
- Make sure your phone or tablet is fully charged and you also bring your charger to capture photos and access any online references or design inspiration you may need during your visit.
- Consider bringing fabric swatches, paint chips, or wooden floor and cabinet samples to assist you with any color matching needed to ensure your furniture selections complement your space.
- Bringing a small notepad or using an app on your phone is perfect for jotting down any important information about items you see throughout your trip or design questions you may have.
- Opt for comfortable walking shoes, as you will be exploring one million square feet and four levels of showrooms inside the Mart. Be prepared for plenty of walking, but elevators and manual wheelchairs are available, with accessible entrances at the South and West entrances, as well as accessible bathrooms, water fountains and water bottle refill stations at the South entrance.
- Choose casual attire, and consider bringing along a light sweater to stay comfortable as temperatures can vary throughout the showrooms and throughout the day.
- Take time to sit in any upholstered pieces that catch your eye to ensure they will conform to your comfort level.
- Keep in mind that upholstered furniture may be custom-ordered in your own material or personalized fabric, allowing for an additional personalized touch. This is known as COM in the industry, and also includes custom-order trims, fringes, and other small details that complete the look of any piece.
- If you plan to buy multiple items or shop from multiple showrooms, be sure to take advantage of our Consolidated Shipping, which allows you to combine all your purchases into one single shipment to your home.
- Visiting the Mart from out of state? Our showrooms collect and submit all use or sales taxes for North Carolina, but out-of-state customers will need to submit the appropriate sales and use tax paperwork in their home state.
- Ensure you are prepared for the delivery of your items - we offer additional information about our shipping policies and process on our Purchasing Information page. If you need to store your items for any length of time, due to an extended trip out of the country or a delay in construction, our retailers and shipping partners offer a warehousing service for an additional fee.
- Last but not least, be sure to come back often. Our showrooms and outlets accept new inventory regularly, and your visits also support our local retailers, manufacturers and craftsmen. We truly appreciate all of your repeat business and referrals to your family, friends, and colleagues.