High Point: The Furniture Capital of the World

Where Design Meets History in the Heart of North Carolina

When you hear “High Point,” you might not immediately think of a global destination—but this city in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina has earned an international reputation that rivals design meccas like Milan and Paris. Known proudly as the Furniture Capital of the World, High Point blends history, craftsmanship, and innovation into a story that draws visitors, buyers, and designers from around the globe.

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A Town Built on Craftsmanship

High Point’s rise began in the late 19th century when its location along the railroad made it a perfect hub for trade. With an abundance of hardwood forests nearby, furniture makers found the city an ideal place to set up shop. By the early 1900s, High Point was bustling with factories turning out everything from sturdy oak dressers to elegant dining room sets.

By the mid-20th century, the city wasn’t just a manufacturer—it had become the showroom floor of America, showcasing new styles, trends, and innovations in home design.

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Did You Know?

• High Point got its name because it was literally the highest point on the North Carolina railroad line between Goldsboro and Charlotte.

• In 1921, High Point hosted its first official furniture exposition, setting the stage for what would become the largest home furnishings trade show in the world.

• Today, the High Point Market attracts more than 75,000 visitors from over 100 countries twice a year, transforming this North Carolina town into a global design destination.

• The city is home to over 12 million square feet of showroom space—that’s more showroom space than all of Manhattan’s Empire State Building… seven times over!

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A Global Gathering of Design

Twice each year—in spring and fall—the quiet streets of High Point come alive with a surge of international energy. Buyers, interior designers, architects, and style enthusiasts converge for the High Point Market, a week-long celebration of creativity and commerce.

Here, the newest design trends debut, from sleek European minimalism to bold American craftsmanship. Streets are filled with shuttle buses, showrooms buzz with conversation in multiple languages, and the city pulses with the excitement of global design exchange.

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Beyond the Market

While the trade shows are the star attraction, High Point offers plenty for visitors year-round. From the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers—a whimsical 38-foot landmark—to the Furniture Discovery Center, the city celebrates its heritage with charm and pride. Downtown revitalization has also brought local restaurants, breweries, and boutiques that make exploring worthwhile, whether you’re here on business or simply curious about the city’s story.

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Why It Matters

High Point’s story is about more than furniture—it’s about how a small Southern city embraced its resources, leaned into its strengths, and carved out a place on the world stage. For travelers, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most fascinating destinations are hiding in plain sight, just waiting to be discovered.

Teresa Davis
REALTOR® with the PREMIERE Group of Real Broker LLC
Licensed Mortgage Advisor NMLS# 2597433 with One Real Mortgage
(336) 688-3100
TeresaDavisHomes@gmail.com