Universal Furniture Unveils Renovated Designer’s Lounge and Learning Center at Spring High Point Market

Furniture World News Desk on 4/11/2025

Universal Furniture will welcome guests to a fully renovated Designer’s Lounge at the April High Point Market, offering an updated experience designed specifically for interior designers. Now in its ninth year, the lounge continues to serve as a retreat where designers can take a break, connect, and recharge during Market.

“Designers should view the new lounge as a private retreat,” said Kayla Miller, Universal’s Marketing Director. “When days are long, feet are tired and eyes are overstimulated, it offers a calm, beautiful space set apart from the bustle of Market where they can recharge, relax and enjoy a few well-deserved luxuries.”

Designers with a Universal account can access the lounge after checking into the showroom. Inside, they’ll be greeted with refreshments—wine, cocktails, tea, coffee, and snacks—served by staff. A luxury gift kiosk allows guests to select a complimentary gift as part of the experience.

The lounge features vibrant custom upholstery showcasing Universal’s North Carolina-based capabilities. Textures and tones include plush velvets, deep jewel shades, and upholstery details such as reverse welts, alternating fabric backs, and contrast welting. Walls throughout the space are finished in expressive colors from Little Greene Paint Company.

A new collaboration area at the rear of the lounge offers a wide table for designers to meet with clients and review plans.

“Designers need a wide surface to properly show clients plans, drawings and boards,” said Miller. “The back room features a long table where they can spread out materials, talk through ideas and collaborate in a setting that feels both professional and inspiring.”

Additionally, a concierge service will be available to assist with dinner reservations and transportation.

Learning Center Refresh

The Universal Learning Center, which hosts the company’s Market educational programs, is also receiving a design update. New seating from Universal will be introduced, along with an upgraded aesthetic aimed at supporting both comfort and productivity. A coffee bar offering hot and iced beverages will be accessible just off the foyer, behind a Dutch door.

“We wanted to create an inspiring space that enhances learning while also making the experience more comfortable and seamless,” Miller said. “From the upgraded seating to the easy-access coffee bar, every detail is designed with our guests in mind.”

Designer’s Lounge Sponsors

The Universal Designer’s Lounge is sponsored by Rue Magazine, Regina Andrew Detroit, Valdese Weavers, and Moore & Giles.

About Universal
 Retailers and interior designers around the world trust Universal Furniture’s award-winning, smart and stylish designs to create modern, well-appointed living spaces for the whole home. The company’s casegood, upholstery, accent and outdoor designs are developed under the brand names Universal Furniture, Miranda Kerr Home and Coastal Living.

Universal Furniture, founded in 1968 and based in High Point, N.C., is the recipient of 14 Pinnacle awards for design excellence from the International Society of Furniture Designers. It is a brand of Samson Holdings, one of the world’s largest vertically integrated furniture manufacturers. For more information, visit www.universalfurniture.com.