World of Decor Offers Unique Treasures

Local shop finds and sells unique treasures in customer-friendly experience


World of Decor specializes in new, hard-to-find pieces from across the globe.World of Decor has been transforming the way Central Florida residents buy furniture for 25 years. From Orlando roots, World of Decor has become one of the nation’s largest importers of home furnishings. Unlike a big-box furniture store where sales-floor employees pressure you to buy big and buy now, World of Decor specializes in new, hard-to-find pieces from across the globe and creates a distinct customer-focused buying experience in its 300,000-square-foot Orlando showroom. Plus, regular weekend auctions offer customers an opportunity to purchase items at a price that comes in well below retail.

In 1990, owner George Eouse came to Orlando from Boston and opened up a shop selling high-end mirrors and frames. Soon he expanded and opened a store in Winter Park called The Liquidation Station, formerly located on U.S. Highway 17-92. There he held what he called reverse auctions where items started off at the regular price and got lower every day. It was a way to sell things in his inventory at a lower price. When the housing market declined, he decided to hold regular auctions at his store, but instead of a registration fee to participate, Eouse opened his auction to the public, served refreshments and provided music and entertainment. It was a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, and the event became a regular occurrence.

“We create an auction for our customers comprised of only the items they’re interested in,” said Scott Major, World of Decor’s strategic marketing director. ”The opening bid is usually set around 80 percent off of the listed retail price. Then, the interested parties in the audience set how high the price goes. The auctioneers will never let the price go over its retail listing. This guarantees our customers the best deal. It’s also a lot of fun.”

This nontraditional auction setting allows Eouse to gauge demand for the different furnishings he stocks. He’s in constant search for new sources of inventory, scouring the world for unique items and great values.

“The No. 1 difference between World of Decor and its competitors is the breadth and depth of selection we have in one location,” Major said.

 

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World of Decor’s inventory is always changing, making for a fresh selection of choices during every visit. You might notice a wide variety of marble and bronze fountains and amazing leather sectionals on one visit and silk, floral table pieces and hand-knotted Persian rugs upon your return.

“You never know what George is going to find,” Major said.

Furniture dealers, interior designers, general contractors and regular customers with refined tastes all seek out the nonantique treasures found at World of Decor, because they’re not found anywhere else.

“This is an interior designer’s dream,” Major said. “This is their playground. They come with their clients and shop for anything from a 20-foot, hand-carved marble sculpture to whimsical decor like a 6-foot-tall Santa to put in their front yard for the holidays.”

Clients include prominent businesses, restaurants, bars, hotels and resorts who are usually interested in grand crystal chandeliers, ornate iron security gates, rich leather and large marble fireplace mantels. Everything from classic and contemporary bedroom, living room, dining room, bathroom and patio pieces to marble, bronze, mirrors, rugs and framed art can be found at World of Decor. Even items from the historic Church Street Station in downtown Orlando were auctioned off here when the establishment was sold.

“Think of a man cave with an amazing hand-carved bar that makes your home feel like an Irish pub,” Major said. “If you’re looking for treasures, this is where you find them. We essentially turn homes into estates.”

World of Decor has available financing options as well as an online store where customers can purchase goods or participate in weekly online auctions. In-store auctions are held during specific weekends throughout the year. These catered affairs not only provide ways for customers to get a great deal, but also provide education on the items.

“When they bring something up for auction, we help customers to understand why the item has value,” Major said. “For example, we describe the quality of the leather, the intricate and [decorative] hand-stitching of the cushions. We tell you how it was made, and, as you learn about it, you may have a new appreciation for a fine piece of furniture. You may never have known what makes something into an heirloom.”

Customers don’t have to buy exclusively in the live auction, but many find the
excitement of the event a great way to shop. The Orlando showroom, which is located at 11423 Satellite Blvd. in Orlando, is open weekdays from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Everyone is invited to come tour the showroom and see the items prior to the auction.

“We want customers who are looking for ideas,” Major said. “We have items you’ll want to keep in your family for generations. And we listen to our customers so we can find what they’re looking for.”

For more information about World of Decor or to schedule a showroom tour, call 407-816-7055 or visit www.worldofdecor.com on the Web.