Pierce & Parker Interiors
By Jan Lane Harper

I do believe this is the busiest time of the year. All those organizations that suspended activities for the summer are back in full swing, and we’re checking dates for get-away weekends that may be sandwiched between the numerous social commitments filling the blocks on our calendars.

Forgive me for mentioning the impending holidays, but it does pay to plan ahead. You may have guests coming for Thanksgiving or planning to host
your own series of parties and dinners. Thus unashamedly, I gently suggest that you take an objective look around and consider your home’s furnishings.

Whether your wish list includes totally redecorating a room or two or just creating a different look by changing fabrics or adding accenting accessories, Pierce & Parker Interiors can provide the inventory and the expertise. Fran and Jack Pierce are proud of this business that they have owned since the mideighties, and they are proud to offer a full array of furnishings and services in this beautifully appointed facility. You may be surprised to learn there are 17,000 square feet filled with over a million dollars in inventory and to discover the competitive pricing of this mid-to high-end merchandise. “I’ve heard that some people hesitate to shop here, thinking that the prices may be exorbitant,” Fran says, “and I’d really like for people to know that we can work within most any budget.”

Wandering through this exquisite store is likeroaming through a colorfulmaze. Furnishings are arranged in groups – occasional chairs with a sofa and accent pillows, area rugs, mirrors and other framed works, lamps, screens and greenery, and tables casually topped with decorative pieces and magazines, including, of course, current and back issues of Elegant Island Living. Each turn through the maze offers a fresh setting – striking contrasts in black and white, bold reds and other strong colors, or the softer pastels traditionally associated with island living.

“We try to keep about thirty sofas on display,” Fran notes. In addition to those groupings, there are exquisite four-poster beds and various displays of dining tables with accompanying chairs. “We do sell off the floor,” Fran says, explaining that some furniture stores only display samples. “Although we certainly do take custom orders, we offer immediate delivery of merchandise from these showrooms,” Fran continues, “and slipcovers are available for many of our sofas. That’s especially appealing to seasonal residents who may lease their properties when theyare not here.”

Tucked in smaller spaces throughout the store are areas filled with fabric swatches for upholstery and window treatments. “We can also do floor coverings,” Fran shares, adding, “and don’t forget we have a second floor filled with outdoor and patio furniture.”

There’s an amazing array of “case goods.” Fran explained: “That’s the term for all those occasional pieces made of wood.” Those beautiful tables, cabinets, and chests include pieces from Henredon, Drexel, and Century. Fran assembles all the floor displays, and she also does the buying, traveling to High Point, North Carolina, for furniture in April and October, and to Atlanta for accessories and accent pieces in January and July. Jack oversees the finances, handling the business end with the expertise gained from his previous career as a banker. Five employees assist in all phases of the business, and there are two interior designers

– Lori Cook and Nikki Hull Smith – whose services are offered gratis to help with all furnishing decisions. “To help you make the right decisions the first time,” Fran suggests with a smile.

The Pierces moved to St. Simons Island shortly after they and Barrie and Ken Parker purchased Harvey & Harriet’s, a business originally owned by the Bebermans. Fran and Barrie had worked together for Ethan Allen in Macon and then opened a furniture and design store there in the mid-seventies. The purchase of this island business was the husbands’ idea. The Parkers had discovered this business opportunity while here for a wedding in 1980, and because Jack had always dreamed of owning his own business, it didn’t take long for a decision. The two couples bought the business, changing the name the next year. Then in the mid-eighties, the Parkers relinquished their involvement, selling their interest in the business to the Pierces.

Even if you’re not in the market for something new, treat yourself to the Pierce & Parker Interiors experience. You might find just the right piece and know just the place in your home to put it, and if you’re not sure, the designers can help. There are many treasures to discover.