Bored by conformist furniture and accessories? If you can conceive it, this store owner can probably turn it into reality.
By JACKIE RIPLEY
Published September 5, 2004
TOWN 'N COUNTRY - If the Fantasy Furniture banner draped across Furniture to Go on W Waters Avenue fails to attract curious shoppers, then the red and black faux fur, stiletto-shaped chair sitting out front surely will.
The unusual chairs positioned outside the furniture warehouse at 3910 W Waters are a prelude to some of the more outlandish pieces inside.
"If people like contemporary, art deco, they'll like this," said owner Jerry Stethem.
The idea behind the fantasy furniture store is that almost everything is custom made - and a bit off the wall.
You might find a G-shaped bar inside the showroom that holds your fine wine amid an array of twinkling lights. Or, there's the fireplace with the sparkling lights that seem to spiral off into space.
"We get all kinds of customers," Stethem said. "But it's more a lifestyle than an age group."
Merchandise, which is midrange in price, includes custom made sofas, chairs and tables, faux stone fireplace mantles, liquor cabinets and entertainment centers.
"We have quite a few pieces on display," said Stethem, illustrating how he can build an entertainment center to a customer's specifications. "We can make the opening to accommodate any size TV."
Ready-made items include a lime green leather chaise longue and a chair in the shape of a hand.
Often, customers come in with an idea of what they want but are unsure how to execute it.
"We've gotten into some really outrageous stuff like acrylic staircase railings," said Stethem, describing how 2-inch clear tubes can be used instead of wood for a banister. The clear links can be curved into just about any shape.
"We have access to artists who do that," Stethem said.
The Town 'N Country store, which is the company's warehouse, opened last year. The main store is in Carrollwood at 7214 N Dale Mabry Highway.
