A View On: Modern History
Barbour Spangle Design had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Beaver, President and Creative Director of Modern History, Somerset Bay Home, and Yorkshire House Antiques.
These three companies are local to High Point, North Carolina. Modern History and Somerset Bay are furniture collections tailored for the interior design trade. YH Antiques is an offering of original period art hand selected in Europe and available in the High Point showroom. Both Modern History and Somerset Bay have been featured in numerous publications such as Veranda, Traditional Home, and Coastal Living, just to name a few. The product is specified by some of the finest designers in the nation and is often referred to as a “style leader” in the industry.
Q: Please tell us about your companies Modern History, Somerset Bay Home, and Yorkshire House in about 10 words.
A. Modern history uses classic touches and details to create a relevant, updated style that will stand the test of time.
Q: Why and how did you start them, what was your vision?
A. The vision is “classic-modern-timeless.”
Modern History evolved in an effort to supply the interior design community with truly fine furniture at a genuine value that is beautifully proportioned, nuanced with delicate hardware and finished with an authentic patina.
Q: What services or products do you offer, manufacture or sell?
A. We sell occasional, bedroom and dining room furniture.
Q: What is one thing people would be interested to learn about Modern History, Somerset Bay Home, and Yorkshire House?
A. Almost all of our designs are exact copies of, or inspired from classic, iconic antique designs that have stood the test of time.
Photography by Modern History
Q: What differentiates Modern History, Somerset Bay Home, and Yorkshire House from others?
A. Our finish, proportions and attention to detail.
Q: What are the highlights and challenges of owning and operating your business in High Point?
A. Highlights: High Point has furniture in its DNA. We really rally together for the furniture markets. We are very proud to be the furniture capital of the world.
Photography by Modern History
Q: Why did your parents choose to start Yorkshire House in High Point?
A. My parents started the business in High Point simply because this is where they lived.
Q: How has High Point changed since the business opened?
A. The furniture market in High Point has grown tremendously since my parents started the business 25 years ago. In addition to the market growth, the city continues to evolve and grow to satisfy not only the needs of the market attendees but also our local community.
Photography by Modern History
Q: What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
A. My biggest challenge was shifting all production from England to Vietnam when Yorkshire House evolved into Modern History.
Q: Are you involved in the High Point community and if so, how?
A. My family and I try hard to stay involved in the High Point community through volunteerism, our church, and charitable projects that are near and dear to our heart.
Photography by Modern History
Q: If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in High Point, what would it be?
A. I would say to try hard to get a job in any industry where you have an interest or passion.
Q: What are you excited about for High Point’s future?
A. High Point’s leadership is in lockstep! I am excited for all of the revitalization projects in the pipeline. The next 5-10 years should be transformative for our city.
Thank you Michael Beaver for sharing your insight with us on your business and your view of High Point.
Discover our High Points,
The HP Discovered Team