After more than 80 years of serving families in Connecticut, a well-loved Hartford furniture store is preparing to close its doors for good.
Connecticut Home Furnishings, a staple in the community since 1932, announced it will be shutting down but not before one final farewell — a heavily discounted closing sale.
From Humble Beginnings to Handmade Elegance
The store’s story stretches back to the early 1930s, when it first opened selling a wide variety of goods — everything from bicycles and toys to appliances and furniture.
By 1984, the shop had reinvented itself, shifting focus toward high-quality, handmade furniture that helped it stand out in a competitive market.
Over the years, the business became a trusted name for generations of families furnishing their homes.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to Loyal Customers
In a touching message on Facebook, the store thanked its loyal customers and community: “From helping you pick your first sofa to finding the perfect dining table for generations of memories — it’s been our honor to be part of your homes and your lives.”
The post added that while the lights may soon dim in the showroom, the gratitude for decades of support will never fade.
Final Closing Sale
The store’s liquidation event runs through the week and will end at 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 14.
Shoppers have the chance to save hundreds, even thousands, on brand-name pieces.
Customers were reminded that all purchases must be taken home immediately or scheduled for quick delivery.
The store also reassured those with pending orders that staff will continue assisting until all obligations are fulfilled.
Owner Bids Farewell
For owner Tom Hall, the closure marks the beginning of retirement.
Speaking to local media, he said, “I’m deeply thankful for the support this community has provided over the years and for the many friendships that grew out of the store.
As I step into retirement, I carry with me a deep appreciation for everyone who has been part of this journey.”
Why Furniture Stores Are Struggling
Retail experts point to economic pressures as a driving force behind closures like this one.
Neil Saunders of Global Data explained that high interest rates are hurting big-ticket purchases such as furniture.
“At present, people are more willing to buy smaller things as part of simple home refreshes,” he told Forbes, suggesting that the market will remain weak until interest rates decline.
A Tough Year for Furniture Retailers
Connecticut Home Furnishings isn’t alone in its struggles.
At Home, the Texas-based décor chain, filed for bankruptcy in June and is closing at least 32 stores this month.
Trees n Trends, with outlets across Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee, also shuttered in July.
Even furniture giant IKEA has closed locations in both the UK and California this year, signaling a challenging time for the entire industry.
Customers Share Their Memories
The closure has sparked an emotional response from longtime shoppers and employees.
One customer wrote on Facebook, “So sad, I have shopped there since it opened its doors as Silk Tree Factory.
You will be missed, no other store comes close to being as nice as this one!” A former employee added, “I learned so much from Joe and all the leaders.
I hold a special place in my heart for this company.”