Summer’s last holiday weekend has finally arrived, and while most Houstonians will be hosting backyard barbecues, the folks over at the Houston Design Center will be celebrating Labor Day weekend with, well, labor. That’s right — they’re preparing for the Annual Designer Showroom Sale.
Photo by Emily Cotton
Find contemporary items at James Craig Furnishings.
Referring to this annual affair as a “sample sale” would be a disservice of epic proportions. Participants in the sale have stressed that with the release of the 2025 manufacturers’ line sheets, furniture prices are getting ready to soar. So, now is certainly the time to take advantage of the deeply discounted prices on everything these showrooms will have to offer when the doors swing open on Thursday, September 5.
CultureMap previewed the sale and also choose a favorite piece, or two, to highlight for readers. While most of the showrooms will spend the weekend toiling away to have everything showroom ready, plenty had already prepared vignettes. Here are a few of our favorite can’t-miss pieces.
Memorial Antiques & Interiors
Comprised of three large connected spaces, if this showroom seems familiar, it’s not just happenstance. Multiple vendors keep this space stocked with art and antiques sourced from Europe, mostly by way of Round Top. Think beautiful painted and burled wood pieces aglow beneath more antique crystal chandeliers than one is used to seeing under one roof. Prepare to spend at least an hour here to see everything.
Sale: 20 percent off showroom wide, plus individual dealer discounts.
CultureMap picks:
- Multicolor fluted Murano glass chandelier.
- 19th century English Pine breakfront bookcase with floral swag carvings.
James Craig Furnishings
This contemporary showroom keeps things modern, clean, and fresh. As official distributors of Lee Industries, their offerings include solid wood framed upholstered and case goods, plus lamps, accessories, and bedding.
Sale: Select items 50-80 percent off.
CultureMap picks:
- Olive velvet swivel chairs.
- Tansy King bed.
Design House
Color and pattern really come out to play in this whimsical showroom. A curated mix of custom upholstered furniture and fine antiques, it’s worth a visit just for a lesson in successfully mixing old with new. The art and accessory collection is carefully curated as well.
Sale: 40 percent off upholstery and case goods, plus 25 percent off art, accessories, and lighting.
CultureMap picks:
- Lillian August green square ottomans.
- Hickory White swivel back chairs.
Fabric House
This sister showroom to Design House is a fabric lover’s dream. Whether it’s fabrics-by-the-yard or a full-service design workroom for bedding, draperies, and the like, Fabric House has it covered.
Sale: 25 percent off showroom wide, plus 3 yard silk panels for $75 per panel. Access to the fabric remnant room; prices marked per piece.
SceneOne Interiors
Those in search of something a little on the dramatic side will be pleased to visit this showroom. Think bold reds, blacks, and golds with metallic accents sprinkled throughout. While there is some diversity, the main theme that comes through is decidedly Old Hollywood.
Sale: Discounts vary, but note that the piece we chose will be 40 percent off.
CultureMap pick:
- Hickory White Benson Desk in Walnut.
Turkish Rug Company
This purveyor of fine rugs has a top-notch selection that keeps designers returning to their stacks. If anyone is ever curious about who is responsible for the muted, elegant wovens seen in the impossibly chic River Oaks real estate listings — this is the source.
Sale: up to 35 percent off. (9’x12’ priced from $5,400-$7,000).
CultureMap picks: Everything!
Also participating in the sale are the following interior design showrooms, who will offer a selection of custom pieces and accessories: Sheffield House Design, Teri Pugh Studio, and Chapman Design.
The Houston Design Center’s Annual Designer Showroom Sale will take place from September 5-14. For more information visit the Design Center’s website.
