Our Story
In the wintery, cold days of February 2009, Johnna Cole Sherer called Trish McCall seeking advice regarding starting a business. A four hour meeting followed, strategic plans were formed, timelines were established, and a partnership and friendship were born. Three short months later Johnna, Trish, and Julie Purkey, along with a receptionist, one salesperson, and one warehouse person opened a fully-stocked 10,000+ square feet “to-the-trade” showroom featuring well-known lines of furniture and accessories.
Vision, trust, faith, and hard work were in full force at Elizabeth Cole LLC Design Furniture & Décor. That first year the showroom and warehouse space were increased and a custom drapery and window coverings workroom was purchased. The drapery workroom, located adjacent to the showroom, created a one-stop destination for area designers.
Over the next few years, expansion continued by leasing additional showroom and warehouse space. In 2011 a design firm was purchased and EC Design was created with a full design staff and studio specializing in model home merchandising.
Another venture, EC Home Décor & Furniture Outlet was open to the public in 2016 in an 18,000+ square feet space across the parking lot from the to-the-trade showroom. As a result of a relationship with the area’s largest home builder, a buy-back program was created. All the furniture, art, and accessories designed by the EC Design team and placed in model homes throughout the city were bought back when these models closed out and offered to the public at up to 70% off retail.
On our 10th Anniversary in May 2019, we opened the doors of the designer showroom and drapery workroom to the public. Opening to the public was a direct response to meet the void in Houston and the surrounding areas and the growing demand for quality products available in a range of price options. Also, we moved the Outlet into the same building as the Showroom and continue to offer products from model home closeouts, as well as, showroom clearance items. We are the destination for home design, furniture, décor and drapery.
Twelve years, 27 employees, 35,000+ square feet of furniture and accessories’ showroom, design studio, workroom, and warehouse, an interior design and model merchandising firm, a custom drapery workroom, a positive and mentoring company culture, valued and extraordinary customers and business partners – all woven together to create the beautiful tapestry of Elizabeth Cole LLC.