Rest of Gallery Furniture set to reopen Thursday

Houston store rebounds after fire

Clint Engel -- Furniture Today, August 31, 2009

HOUSTON — Consumers here will be treated to another big bash this Thursday when Jim McIngvale opens its doors to a completely restored Gallery Furniture.

The 100,000-square-foot showroom, which suffered extensive damage in a May 21 fire that destroyed Gallery's adjacent distribution center, was partially reopened in July with several new features. But owner McIngvale says the Top 100 company will have some more surprises at this week's event.

"You have to see it to believe it," said Gallery spokesman Hamilton Masters.

The refurbished store is anchored by a new Inspirational Home area, a three-apartment complex built into the store and decorated by designer Bill Stubbs to illustrate three themes - traditional, Texas Hill Country and Urban Loft.

"Bill has gone all out on the designs," Masters said. "Each apartment is also a Smart Home, with new home automation systems as integral parts of the design. This exhibit will be like no other furniture setting in the world."

Gallery also will introduce an expanded youth furniture area, a playground, and an area rug department called the Moroccan Rug Bazaar.

Gallery is expecting a large crowd Thursday and is promoting the event with an advertising blitz that includes 60 billboards, radio and television spots and newspaper and online advertising.

"Well have live music, hamburgers and hotdogs, barbeque, soft drinks, cake and other goodies available for everyone who comes in during Labor Day weekend," Masters said.

The first 100 people through the door Thursday will receive gift certificates and also will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $5,000 shopping spree. Also, the local CBS affiliate will host its daily talk show from the store and will broadcast the shopping spree drawing.

McIngvale said that last week, "The owner of a very large furniture factory came through to look at Gallery Furniture. He left speechless. I guess we did something right."