Circle Furniture

Despite the relentless country-cute styling of the showroom floor, for every table, bed, and chair on display there are at least 20 customizable options, making this strip mall–friendly mini chain a surprise winner almost by dint of choice alone. Because most pieces are made to order (in small workshops right here in New England), it's a breeze to swap out cherry for walnut, trade traditionally styled molding for up-to-the-minute details, and get that classic chair upholstered in a brashly modern fabric. And while the prices are right, the quality is even better, with rock-solid bookcases and ottomans begging for years of use. RUNNER-UP: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams LAST YEAR: N/A