Meet&CoHIGH POINT — When Lynne and Khrys McArdle rebranded Alden Parks to Alden Home Furniture, it wasn’t just about a new name; it marked a fresh identity for the company.
“We came to realize that we couldn’t cater to everyone,” Lynne shared. “So we asked ourselves, what do we truly want to be? For us, it’s about making furniture people will cherish — not just temporary pieces, but items that tell a story and become woven into family memories.”
The McArdles’ journey begins with veneer, the essence of their craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from the textures and natural beauty of the world around them, the couple scours the globe for rare burls and woods. They collaborate with skilled veneer suppliers and finishing experts to reveal the rich colors and stories hidden in each piece.
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“Our goal is for your furniture to tell a story from nature itself,” McArdle explained.
Every detail, from the finish to the build, is deliberately planned. The process can span years, as exemplified by their Oceanic console, which reflects the ebb and flow of waves on a Maui beach. Each curve captures motion, light, and texture, making the piece appear as if it’s alive.
At Alden Home Furniture, design is a fusion of instinct, artistry, and expert insight. Khrys McArdle, a former civil engineer and talented musician, contributes his artistic perspective, while Lynne brings a lifelong passion for design inspired by her aunt, a senior vice president at King Studio of Design in Manhattan. Together, they collaborate with industry veterans like Gary Ash, previously of Lane Company and Thomasville, to explore unique veneer combinations and textures, giving each piece its own narrative.
The company’s approach to upholstery is another standout feature. With a commitment to the highest standards, Alden Home Furniture is working toward producing 100% of its upholstery domestically in North Carolina. This not only ensures superior craftsmanship but also provides faster production times and greater control over materials, fabrics, and finishes.
“If we take pride in our case goods, we want our upholstery to have the same level of excellence,” McArdle emphasized. The company offers a palette of over 100 fabrics and leathers, allowing designers and clients to create pieces that are as durable as they are beautiful.
While many brands chase the mass-market appeal, Alden Home Furniture focuses on the premium market, catering to designers, upscale retailers, and homeowners who appreciate the story behind each piece.
“Our aim is to create furniture that becomes the heart of a home — pieces that clients touch, admire, and remember,” McArdle stated. The company emphasizes quality, attention to detail, and longevity, ensuring every item is made to last a lifetime.
What truly sets Alden Home Furniture apart is its philosophy of tackling challenges. McArdle recalls a treacherous climb up Mount Shasta with her husband, where they faced icy conditions. At one point, she questioned whether they should turn back. He asked her, “Do you think you can climb Mount Shasta?” Her response: “No, I know I can.” He then gave her a simple piece of advice: “10 steps, 10 breaths.”
This mindset guides the McArdles both in business and life. Rather than getting overwhelmed by the complexities of the furniture industry — with its tariffs, supply chain hurdles, and other challenges — they focus on the next 10 steps, making steady progress while staying grounded.
This patient-focused approach applies to every decision, ensuring every piece of furniture is crafted with care and every partnership nurtured with respect.
Alden Home Furniture’s commitment to excellence extends to its manufacturing partnerships. While many furniture brands rely on factories in China, Alden’s case goods are made in Vietnam, at a facility that aligns with their high standards. This collaborative approach with both the McArdles and their consultants ensures each design stays true to the company’s ethos of quality craftsmanship.
In addition to their craftsmanship, Alden Home Furniture is embracing new ways of connecting with customers, utilizing technology and storytelling. From short videos that showcase the intricate details of their veneer to social media campaigns that highlight the artistry behind each design, the company aims to engage designers and end-users with the deeper narrative behind the furniture.
McArdle sums up their vision: “We want to be the best in our niche, creating furniture that speaks to people and stands the test of time. Every piece carries a veneer story, and every piece is made to be cherished.”
In an industry dominated by trend-chasing and mass production, Alden Home Furniture proves that thoughtful design, quality materials, and a focus on storytelling can carve a lasting place in the market.
For Lynne and Khrys McArdle, it’s not just about creating furniture — it’s about crafting experiences, capturing the essence of nature’s beauty, and honoring the journey, step by step.
