IHFC EXPANDS, RENOVATES INTERHALL

Buyers attending Pre-Market here in High Point this week are getting a sneak peek at a dramatic work in progress at the International Home Furnishings Center (IHFC). The renovation and expansion of InterHall is nearing completion.

The $1.2 million project is IHFC’s response to demand for space in an area long known as an incubator for fashion trends. More than a year in planning (and six months of construction beginning last April), the renovation will preserve InterHall’s open, engaging appeal. The design integrates spacious and carpeted aisles that complement the stained concrete floor of each showroom space. Decorative and functional sconces line each aisle and complement the new modern signage and halogen track lighting.

“These changes are not only welcome, but will have a huge impact for buyers and exhibitors who can benefit from this upbeat, 21st Century space,” relates long-time exhibitor Peter Scheetz of Palu, Ltd.

“We’re tremendously excited about the changes, which we believe will bring additional exposure and interest to our products,” says Paul Delaisse of Central Station Original Interiors, a new exhibitor. “Our close proximity with related high-end exhibitors will provide an easier shopping experience for our subset of like-minded customers.”

The new InterHall will also feature four fashion-driven showcases by IHFC exhibitors, a new concept at Market. The dramatic, design-inspiring showcases include Excelsior—presenting the Nicole Miller Collection, Laneventure—featuring Celerie Kimble, Carter Furniture—and will introduce a new collection by Rick Lee and the best of Italian contemporary.

“We’ve responded to what retailers and designers have demanded from us,” says Thomas M. Lindh, president and chief executive officer of IHFC, “and that is to give them a dynamic shopping-discovery center of the hottest, freshest and newest merchandise from a great mix of progressive, well-known and up-and-coming resources.”

The project follows—and extends—last year’s massive multi-million dollar renovation of the Commerce lobby, which transformed IHFC’s main entrance into a modern, upscale environment.