By reporter Steven Smalley
With a long-established store in Belltown, a second Modele?s Home Furnishings has opened in the?Village at the old Laroux location. Deb Bluestein, Magnolia resident and owner sat with?Magnolia Voice to talk about the new venture.
?We sell high-end used furniture on consignment,? Bluestein begins. ?When people are moving,?redecorating, downsizing, and they have nice furniture that they want to part with, we offer a service.?When we sell it we take a commission and we send them a check.?
Just to keep it interesting, she sells a mixture of used furniture and new gifts and accessories for the?home; from baskets and soap to French dish towels.
?Customers appreciate quality and don?t mind the concept of something being gently used, which is?popular in these days of being ?green,?? she says. ?You often get better quality merchandise ? it?s built?better. Mainly it represents a significant savings.?
Bluestein?s focus is on Modern and Contemporary furnishings with the occasional antique to keep?an interesting mix, but don?t look for Early American pieces, they don?t fit the market. Nor will you find?anything resembling an antique mall. The atmosphere is uncluttered and the interior spaces neatly?arranged.
?I?m not a designer,? she continues. ?Rob, who is on the staff, is the designer. He does beautiful?merchandising.?
If you are looking to sell, don?t throw the sofa in the back of the pickup so fast.
?We have a process,? Buestein says. ?The way we like to start is with a digital photo. Sellers can call?and describe what they have. If I think it?s a good match, then I will request digital photos.?
Or if you are considering a purchase, stop by. There is no junk. Just expect a warm greeting and?caring attitude from all.
?I am so happy to be here,? Bluestein says. ?I?m still having fun. I?m in my 22nd year of business. I love?what I do. It?s fun. I love living here.?
Modele?s is located in the Village 3220 West McGraw Street. Call 206-287-9942
