Family-owned Lawrance Furniture still thriving after 80 years
Family-ownedLawrance Contemporary Furniture is thriving and earning new accolades, more than 80 years after it began serving customers in San Diego.
Earlier this month, Howard Haimsohn, the company’s current owner and president, was awarded the 2023 Retailer of the Year Trailblazer Award by the Home Furniture Association (HFA). The honor reflects Haimsohn’s 40-year tenure serving on retail industry association boards including the Western Home Furnishings Association, National Home Furniture Association and the HFA.
“It caught me a little by surprise,” Haimsohn said about the honor. “I’ve been in this industry all of my adult life and I have a passion for it. I don’t consider it work.”
Haimsohn — who with his father co-founded Contemporary Design Group, a national association of community furniture stores — said being hands-on is something he’s very proud of. He runs the business with his wife, Julie, and their children, Joel Haimsohn, and Bethany DelConte. He said his dedicated team and family are to thank for his recognition and success.
Lawrance Contemporary Furniture was founded by Haimsohn’s grandparents in 1937. Its original showroom in Hillcrest still stands on University Avenue. In 2018, the company’s second location, in Encinitas, relocated to a new space designed by local architect David Keitel with Domus Studio Architects.
Lawrance specializes in modern furniture made in the U.S., Canada and Italy. Haimsohn’s team makes sure to find the “perfect piece” in the right color, size and shape for each customer. Clearance items are listed online, and the company offers complimentary in-house interior design services, as well as shipping and delivery.
Visit lawrance.com and follow @lawrancefurniture on Instagram.
Roxana Becerril is a freelance writer.