Smithe Blog - By Walter E. Smithe Furniture + Design (2024)

WALTER EDWARD SMITHE, JR. (1936-2022)

October 12th, 2022 posted in Uncategorized.

It is with great sadness that the family of Walter Edward Smithe, Jr., announces his passing. Walter was the patriarch of the extended Smithe family and the founder of Walter E. Smithe Furniture & Design. He died peacefully with his beloved wife of 64 years, Florence Flynn Smithe, by his side. Many family members from far and near gathered close during his final days, cherishing the memories of time spent with Papa during the 86 years of his extraordinary life.

Walt was born in 1936 to Margaret Slifka and Walter E. Smithe Sr., and he was raised in the Belmont and Central neighborhood of Chicago. In his own words, he was well-educated in Catholic Schools. He graduated from St. Ferdinand primary school in 1950 and Fenwick High School in 1954. He attended the University of Notre Dame and earned a Bachelor of Philosophy in Commerce degree in 1958 and a master’s degree in Anthropology from Loyola.

Walt married Flo, his neighborhood sweetheart, in July of 1958. The newlyweds moved to Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indiana, where he fulfilled his commitment to the US Army, attained the rank of Captain, and developed expertise in the nascent field of computers.

After discharge from the Army, Walt enjoyed a successful career in the computer industry working for GE and IBM. In 1967, Walt was lured back to the family furniture business, and soon pioneered the concept of custom order furniture in Chicagoland. This was the foundation of Walter E. Smithe Furniture & Design. Walt’s vision and leadership provided the roadmap to success still used by the firm to this day.

In 1980, at Loyola, Walt pursued his love of antiquity and culture by earning a master’s degree in Anthropology. His thesis was based on archeological sites he observed on rugged, oceanfront land he and Flo loved and owned in Malin Head, County Donegal, Ireland. Precious family memories were made there, among wonderful neighbors, the steep cliffs and surging sea.

Walt is remembered as the ultimate connector. His gregariousness and natural ability to find a common bond with others nourished him and created an enormous community of friends and colleagues. Until recently, he spent weekends at the Smithe showrooms, engaging with associates and clients.Walt volunteeredfor many years with Habitat for Humanity, traveling to the US and Central America to help build houses, often under difficult conditions. His care for, and interest in others was truly unique.

In his later years Walt, or “Papa” to his grandkids and great grandkids, immensely enjoyed his time with extended family. He delighted the children by engaging their curiosity and imagination, playing banjo, and singing folk songs like “The Rock Island Line” and dreaming up his tales of Tiny Tim and the Magic Gumball Machine.

Walt’s success in business is only exceeded by the success of his personal life. He is survived by Flo, his cherished wife; 7 children, Walter III (Mary) Smithe, Cindy (Randy) Perry, Tim (Mary) Smithe, Margaret Smithe, Mark (Will Forrest) Smithe, Hope (Jason) Byrne and Amy Smithe; 16 grandchildren, Maureen (Chris) Brusznicki, Meghan (JC) Clarke, Caitie (Danny) Jisa, Casey (Hillary) Perry, Colleen Smithe, Bob (Meghan) Perry, Wes (Lexi) Smithe, Cameron Smithe, Kelly Stock, Kevin Stock, Reid (Ashley) Smithe, Kathleen Stock, Jack Smithe, Summit Byrne, Ethan Byrne, and India Byrne; 23 great-grandchildren; and brothers Tomm (Rosemarie) and Gary (Debbie) Smithe, and sister, Nancy (Bob) Waters. He will be dearly missed by all. Walter is preceded in death by his parents, and his grandson, Timothy Smithe, Jr.

The wake will be held at Ryan-Parke funeral home in Park Ridge on Friday, October 21, from 4-8pm. Father Larry McBrady will celebrate his funeral mass at 2pm on Saturday, October 22, at St. Paul of the Cross Church in Park Ridge, Illinois, the parish where he and Flo raised their family.

The legacy of his life and work lives on in the hearts of all whose lives were touched by this great man. And now he rests in peace.

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Your Fall High Point Furniture Market Trend Report

October 28th, 2021 posted in bedroom, Designers, Dining Room, Hot Topics, hpmkt, Living Room, On Trend.

Twice a year, in April and October, furniture manufacturers, retailers, and designers from around the world travel to the otherwise quiet High Point, NC for the High Point Furniture Market (HPMKT). The Walter E. Smithe buying team never misses HPMKT as it is an opportunity for us to find the newest furniture and décor for…

Fresh from the [furniture] market, here are the latest furniture trends.

The coziest of fabrics
We saw oodles and oodles of chairs, sofas, and even sectionals covered in ultra-soft and cozy boucle and Sherpa fabrics. As Chicagoans, we fully support this trend. With fall in the air, these comfy styles had us wanting our favorite pair of sweats, a good book and a hot toddy!

Natural & Organic
We practically live our lives totally plugged-in and, as wonderful as it is to get outside and connect with nature, it isn’t always feasible. The next best thing? Bringing the outdoors in with furniture made with organic materials, elements and shapes. Think rattan, natural wood finishes, stones and petrified slabs of wood. On top of being cool and on-trend, it’s a beautiful, bright, and timeless look.

Throw-back inspired
One of the newest emerging trends that we are most excited about are pieces with modern interpretations of styles from decades past. Think 70s, 80s, and 90s… yes, THOSE decades past! We saw lots of greens and rust tones of the 70s, the curvaceous lines of the 80s, and oak finishes of the 90s, but all of these looks had modern updates like brass accents and organic materials. The styles all gave us nostalgic vibes while still feeling new and current.

50 Shades of White Upholstery
We are seeing more and more white upholstery go through our warehouse and this trend is only growing. The biggest driver of this trend? Worry Free fabric, of course! Our family is VERY passionate about Worry Free furniture, so we left HPMKT pumped about all the beautiful, soft and creative white fabrics we saw that had stain-resistance built-in. These fabrics look and feel like “regular” non-performance fabrics, so you don’t have to sacrifice style or comfort. Best of all, you can finally have that white sofa you’ve been coveting!

Curves for Days
Organic lines are rarely perfectly straight, and, with such an emphasis on furniture looking and feeling organic, it makes sense that furniture is moving away from being linear. There was an abundance of gorgeous and creative curved upholstery, but the curves didn’t stop there. We saw so many curvaceous casegoods like sideboards, occasional tables, dining tables and chairs, and beds. Curves naturally force your eyes to move around the room, instantly giving your space more interest.

If you want to add some Fall 2021 HPMKT style to your home, contact your Smithe designer today! Don’t have one? Let Walt personally select one for your project here or head into any of our 10 showrooms.

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Add Some Artwork

May 20th, 2021 posted in Hot Topics.

Make your home a reflection of your personality by adding the finishing touches – after all, design is in the details. Whether you need a new piece of art or a ton of pieces, we have thousands of options to choose from! Black and White If you’re not a fan of color but still…

Black and White

If you’re not a fan of color but still want your artwork to stand out, check out some of our favorite black and white pieces below.

Rinse and Repeat

Set of 15 Roman Busts on Acrylic

Heartbeat Note

POINTILLISM PRINT

Glitz and Glam

Sparkles, Shimmer, and Shine. Everyone that walks into your room will stop and stare at these beautiful pieces of art.

6o Divine Glitter Hand Painted

In Theory

Company Metallic View

Feather Glitter

Alger’s Ascend

POP of Color

Add some color to your space with these vibrant pieces!

Fallen Colorful Leaves

Red Sun

MOI!! Hand Painted Original Art

Tropical Pop

Best Seat in the House

May 17th, 2021 posted in Living Room.

No matter where you’re sitting, you’ll have the best seat in the house with our Power Motion Sofas and Sectionals. See what’s available for immediate delivery from our Quick Ship Stocked Collection so that you can start enjoying your new furniture right away. Sectionals Evans 6-Piece Leather Reclining Sectional Evans Double Reclining Leather…

Sectionals

Evans 6-Piece Leather Reclining Sectional

Evans Double Reclining Leather Sectional- 5 piece

The Evans Collection is a crowd favorite! You’ll love the power motion reclining mechanisms, top grain deep grey leather, and saddle stitching. Choose from 5 or 6 pieces.

EdieDuo Power Reclining Sectional

As stylish as it is comfortable, this luxuriously soft contemporary La-Z-Boy sectional offers accommodating comfort for any size gathering, plus the incline feature allows you to position this directly on a wall. Available as a configurable sectional and chair.

The Perez Power Motion Sectional

The whole family can kick back and relax in the Perez sectional! 3 power reclining sections, quality leather seats and back with leather match sides. This sectional is a limited special buy, so get yours now before it’s gone.

Sofas

Bennett Duo PowerReclining Sofa

With sleek side power buttons and built-in USB ports, and it’s clear this classic style has been given a modern makeover. Buy it as shown or customize this best-selling La-Z-Boy sofa.

Edie Duo Power Reclining Sofa

Understated style and unexpected power describe the La-Z-Boy Edie Duo Reclining 2-Seat Sofa. Its clean and casual design features padded outer arms, a padded back, tapered wood legs and welt trim.

ColonnadeDual Power Sofa

Stocked in this beautiful top grain grey leather with saddle stitching, you’ll love the dual power recliners on our Colonnade Sofa. Also available as a reclining chair.

For more sectional and sofa options visit smithe.com or work with a Smithe designer to shop your style, budget, and time frame.

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Bristow Collection

May 13th, 2021 posted in bedroom, Dining Room, Kitchen, Office, On Trend.

Our best-selling Bristow Collection is growing! What started as a single dining table has expanded to give you the perfect foundational piece for your dining room, bedroom, or home office. As part of our Quick Ship Stocked Collection, you can start enjoying your Bristow right away with immediate delivery. Keep reading to learn more about…

Bristow Dining

Our dining selection is available in rectangular or round, with 3 finishes and multiple sizes to fit your room size needs. Tables with a leaf have a functional self-storing butterfly leaf, making it easy to extend for guests or tuck it away when not in use.

Bristow Coffee Finish

Bristow Coffee Rectangular Tables

Bristow Coffee Round Tables

Carson Chair

Collins Chair

Bristow Coffee Benches

Bristow Coffee Buffet

Bristow Natural Finish

Bristow Natural Rectangular Tables

Bristow Natural Round Tables

Carson Chair

Collins Chair

Bristow Natural Benches

Bristow Natural Buffet

Bristow Greige Finish

Bristow Greige Rectangular Tables

Bristow Greige Round Tables

Carson Chair

Collins Chair

Bristow Greige Benches

Bristow Greige Buffet

Bristow Bedroom

The Bristow Collection is made by hand using Mango wood, a replenishable resource. Each piece reflects natural markings and rich characteristics of the wood that partner beautifully with other furnishings. Check out our newest pieces to the collection below.

Bristow King Bed

The Bristow Greige Bed is also available in queen size.

Bristow 7-Drawer Dresser

Bristow 11-Drawer Chest

Bristow Bachelor Chest

Bristow 3-Drawer Nightstand

Bristow 1-Drawer Nightstand

Bristow Office

The neutral greige finish on our Bristow Office Collection allows you to layer on accent pieces that bring you joy while working from home.

Bristow 8-Drawer Desk

Bristow 4-Drawer Desk

Bristow Writing Desk

Bristow 2-Drawer File

Bristow 2-Drawer Small File

Bristow 3-Drawer File

Get this highly desired look now for a fraction of the price of other retailers. Be the first to know about more expansions to our best-selling collections by signing up for our email list at smithe.com.

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Notable Neutrals

May 10th, 2021 posted in outdoor.

Update your outdoor furniture with our notable neutral picks for this summer! You don’t always need to go bold to have your furniture stand out. Shop our favorite pieces for your tranquil outdoor space below! Loom Outdoor 79” Sofa Drift Nesting Coffee Table Web Outdoor Club Chair Loom Accent Table …

Loom Outdoor 79” Sofa

Drift Nesting Coffee Table

Web Outdoor Club Chair

Loom Accent Table

More Smithe Favorites

Contempo Sofa

Tropez Outdoor 90” Sofa

Contempo Swivel Chair

Tropez Outdoor Sofa Chair

Tapestry Outdoor Club Chair

Shop our Woven Collection, Contempo Collection, and so much more on smithe.com. Work with a Smithe designer to find the perfect outdoor furniture options for your space!

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Dining Room Lighting

May 6th, 2021 posted in Dining Room, On Trend.

Let your dining room shine with lighting from Smithe. With plenty of styles to choose from across all budgets, we have what you are looking for. Darlana Large Linear Lantern Available in 4 finishes and 3 different sizes, the Darlana Lantern is a favorite among design influencers because it looks good in any space.…

Let your dining room shine with lighting from Smithe. With plenty of styles to choose from across all budgets, we have what you are looking for.

Darlana Large Linear Lantern

Available in 4 finishes and 3 different sizes, the Darlana Lantern is a favorite among design influencers because it looks good in any space.

Bling Chandelier

Add some glam to your dining room with this contemporary polished nickel chandelier covered in gorgeous crystal droplets. It is available in additional sizes and finish options.

Sommelier Blanc Chandelier

The distinctive white hues of the recycled glass used to make the Sommelier Blanc Chandelier bring this fixture a feeling of luminosity even when it’s not turned on.

Everly Chandelier

Made from natural fine abaca rope, finely woven over a powder-coated metal frame, this gorgeous chandelier is giving us Coastal Boho vibes.

Dallas Modern Chandelier

One of our most popular designs, this midcentury-inspired fixture features transparent glass spheres. 12 of the 18 arms are adjustable, making this the perfect piece for hands-on clients. The Dallas Modern Chandelier is available in polished nickel and approved for use in covered outdoor areas.

Allendale Aged Brass Chandelier

Allendale breathes new life into a classic style. Available in one-to-three-tier, rectangle, and multiple finishes.

Vito Chandelier

This black industrial chandelier is an inspired redefinition of the task light.

See all our lighting options on smithe.com or work with a Smithe designer to find the perfect lighting fixture for your home, style, and budget.

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Baby to Teen and In-Between

May 3rd, 2021 posted in bedroom.

Now is the perfect opportunity to give your little one an upgrade! Get the best deals on furniture for the youngest ones in your home from Walter E. Smithe, or for some inspiration, see our Youth Room Inspirations page. Cribs True Traditional Crib Minimal. Efficient. Clean. Unlike most cribs, the True Crib has no…

Cribs

True Traditional Crib

Minimal. Efficient. Clean. Unlike most cribs, the True Crib has no high-back, so it does not need to be positioned against a wall. It can float in the center of a room!

Baby Relic Batten Crib in Cloud

From modern to the most traditional of tastes, this Relic Batten crib design will work for you. This 4-in-1 convertible crib converts with ease from crib to toddler bed, to day bed, and finally into a gorgeous, adult full-size bed with the purchase of our conversion kits (sold separately).

Relic Winchester Crib in Fossil

Gender-neutral, this crib will work in any space. This design is wildly loved. Talk about a gorgeous show-stopping bed! It converts with ease from crib to toddler bed to day bed and finally into a beautiful, teen/adult full-size bed with the purchase of our conversion kits (sold separately).

Beds

Elinor Twin Bed

Pretty never goes out of style! The Elinor Collection reflects a stylish infusion and the finish and charming hardware add to the comfort of a home dressed in refined style! Available in twin and queen.

Cottage House Full Bed

This is a dream come true for children everywhere! The Cottage House full size bed is sure to transform any room into the ultimate dreamland.

Lawler Queen Bed

Cozy, comfortable simplicity is the hallmark of the Lawler Bed. Easy neutrals and fabrics come together with a classic headboard design. A simple change to the bedding over the years is all you’ll need to you as your child’s tastes and interests evolve.

Bunk Beds

Captain’s Nautical Bunk Bed

Anchors Away! Bring joy to your little sailors with the Captain’s Nautical Bunk Bed. Let their imagination sail away with this whimsical design and bring on the sleepovers! This bed comes as a twin over full.

Madison Complete Twin over Twin Bunk Bed

Instantly double your space with the Madison Twin over Twin Bunk Bed. Stylish and durable, this bed offers a great solution to a shared room or provides an extra spot for guests (and stuffed animals).

Bunk Bed Twin

A modern take on the classic bunk bed, the Scrimmage Bunk Bed, showcases subtle panel detailing for extra flair. It also includes a ladder and a convenient shelf for the top bunk.

To see more beds, storage, and accessories, head over to our Youth Furniture section on smithe.com. With the help of a Smithe designer, create a space that is as unique as each child and quality furniture that nurtures and grows with them!

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Spring Greenery

April 29th, 2021 posted in Hot Topics, On Trend, Uncategorized.

Bring nature into your home without the upkeep of real plants. Artificial plants are IN, and we are here for it! Our faux greenery looks so close to the real thing that you’ll have to remind yourself not to water them. Add some green to your space now! Olive Tree This faux Olive Tree will…

Olive Tree

This faux Olive Tree will be sure to add tranquility to your space. At 96”, it is the perfect size to height to bring your eye up without adding too much bulk.

Fiddle Leaf FigPlant

5.5’ Fiddle Leaf Tree

One of the more difficult plants to keep alive, but the most popular for décor is the Fiddle Leaf Fig. Brighten up any space in your home with this gorgeous faux plant or tree, available in different sizes and styles on smithe.com.

8’ Kentia Palm Tree

9.5’ Areca Palm Tree

Add some coastal vibes to your home with a faux Palm Tree. See our top picks for this artificial greenery above!

Rose Peony Arrangement

Dahlia/Peony/Rose/Pompon Mum

Add a pop of color with these realistic faux floral arrangements!

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Head over to smithe.com to see more of our Floral and Foliage options.

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BIG Clearance Sale Favorite Finds

April 26th, 2021 posted in Clearance, Dining Room, Kitchen, Living Room, Office.

We are having our biggest clearance sale of the year! Give your home a refresh with up to 75% off. Everywhere you look right now, inventory is low, but not at Walter E. Smithe. Our warehouse has over $2,000,000 in quality furniture ready to be delivered immediately to you. Check out some of our favorite…

OFFICE

Willow 48 inch Desk in Dalia and Black

~~$509~~ CLEARANCE $319