The Lounge Chair, One of the Most Popular Items Available from Chilton, 100 Commercial Street Portland.
The Popular “Acadia Live Edge” Bed in the 100 Commercial Street Showroom.
“We are delighted to open our third showroom here in Portland,” said Liesel Rickert, a sales associate at Chilton, 100 Commercial Street, this afternoon. The other two locations are in Freeport and Scarborough.
Long admired for the simplicity of the hand-made hardwood furniture and respected for the craftsmanship, Chilton is one of the oldest companies in Maine. It’s founding family dates back to the 19th century. Today’s furniture company is an outgrowth of the manufacturing boom that followed the Civil War. Originally it was a paint company along with furniture manufacturing that began in the Old Port. But it eventually changed its focus to produce furniture exclusively according to Rickert.
Chilton furniture has always been inspired by the Scandinavian countries and by Shaker traditions. Sixty percent of the furniture is crafted here in Maine from small builders who follow strict quality control measures to ensure the exceptional quality that characterizes Chilton furniture. All furniture is made in the United States, some in Vermont and New Hampshire as well.
Real estate reports indicate a sharp rise in home sales to out-of-staters in recent months. “We have seen a lot of customers from out-of-state in the Freeport and Scarborough stores,” said Rickert. This just opened Portland location is well-positioned to service the growing market in between the two other stores.
Six years ago, Jen and Jared Levin, Cumberland County residents, purchased the company from the owners who were ready to retire. But the couple still serve as consultants when needed. The Levins, both attorneys, plan on adding more styles to the product line as the market allows.
Chilton, 100 Commercial Street, is open seven days a week. Sunday through Thursday between 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Friday and Saturday, this new kid on the block is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm.