Carol Johnson (right) said she bought the business from her parents in 1989 and has been at the helm ever since. (Andrew Creelman/Community Impact)
For nearly 100 years, the building at 283 S. Seguin Ave. in New Braunfels has been a locally owned furniture store.
Johnson Furniture Co. owner Carol Johnson—said the historic business has been built on relationships, trust and an extensive selection of unique goods.
Marking a milestone
This year, Johnson Furniture Co. is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Johnson Furniture Co. opened in 1966 after Johnson’s parents, Dorothy and Wallace Johnson, took over C.J. Ludewig Furniture, which opened in 1929.
Johnson worked at the register and in sales growing up. She returned to the shop in 1989 after earning an interior design degree from Texas State University, becoming the new owner with her newfound expertise.
Most of the store's interior has been preserved from the 1920s, aside from the modern light fixtures. (Andrew Creelman/Community Impact)
What they offer
Johnson Furniture Co. keeps a rolling inventory, meaning new pieces are ordered based on customer preference and industry trends, Johnson said.
“We’re able to pick and choose exactly what we bring in and not have a corporate influence tell us what we’re going to put on the floor,” she said.
The furniture store also boasts a selection of unique furniture, from single ottoman pieces to living rooms sets complete with couches, coffee tables and lighting.
"We do a lot of custom dining and custom living room tables, accent pieces or signature pieces that are more unique than what you’d find online or in a bigger store," Johnson said.
Johnson Furniture Co. also offers interior design consultations. Johnson said she works directly with customers so they have their ideal space.
By paying attention to individual needs, Johnson Furniture Co. offers a more diverse selection of fabrics and options in-store than big box retailers, Johnson said.
"When someone comes in to purchase from us, they have something more unique to suit their needs and their tastes, rather than walking into a corporate store,” she said.
Johnson Furniture Co. sells furniture and light fixtures. (Andrew Creelman/Community Impact)
Notable quote
Johnson said she wants to keep unique, locally-sourced furniture in town and keep small businesses alive.
“You have a specific need and look for your home, and we want to be able to have all of those offerings,” Johnson said.
