DECOR AND DESIGN: “The major focus is consignment, but I always have new retail pieces to add a fresh, updated look.” Cynthia (CJ) Johnson, owner of the Elephant in the Room Design Showroom, is shown by a lattice-work desk/potting table by Mecox Gardens, two new lamps from Port 68, and above, a large Wendover Art Group print, featuring a colorful butterfly wings motif. Ms. Johnson is holding a sample of her own fabric design.

The Elephant in the Room is ready and waiting! A new and unique fine consignment, retail furniture, and home decor emporium, it invites customers to share a delightful experience — starting with the store’s intriguing name!

As owner Cynthia (CJ) Johnson explains, “When people speak of the ‘elephant in the room,’ they are often referring to something that is there but that they are not talking about or trying to avoid. People often have furniture that becomes an ‘elephant in the room’ — just taking up space. This is the place where we can find room for that ‘pachyderm,’ and it will become the star attraction in someone else’s home. I also love elephants. They are my logo and the idea behind the store.”

Visitors to the new showroom are certainly in for a treat. Just opened in January in the Princeton North Shopping Center, 1225 State Road (Route 206), it offers a combination of consignment and new retail items.

Furniture, furnishings, accessories, lamps, rugs, artwork, and glassware are all highlighted in the charming showroom.

Marketing and Design

Ms. Johnson’s background and experience reflects her talent and interest in art. Studying graphic design and jewelry-making at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, she later went into art publishing and sales. In addition, Ms. Johnson taught art in high school and privately for several years, as well as designing and making jewelry.

Most recently, she was a marketing and design consultant for a furniture consignment establishment in northern New Jersey.

“I was doing a lot of creative work, including designing their floor space and logo, and then I began designing my own fabrics. All this was a very valuable experience. I always loved art and design,” says Ms. Johnson.

“I also always liked the idea of having my own business, especially when I began making jewelry. Doing my own thing was always a passion for me. I decided it would be really cool to have my own place.”

She discovered the location in Princeton North Shopping Center, and it was perfect for what she hoped to present. “It didn’t need any overall renovation,” she explains. “We did some repainting, removed shelving, and turned it into a perfect setting for the items I wanted to display. I like to have vignettes in the showroom, so customers can imagine the pieces in their own home.”

The idea of combining consignment pieces with new retail choices reflects Ms. Johnson’s belief that blending pieces from different periods adds interest to a room.

Eclectic Look

“This is a nice way to show people how to combine old and new, and show a freshened, updated, and current look. People don’t buy suites and sets anymore. I don’t sell these. We show new, fresh ways to use things and how to display them. It’s a much more eclectic look.”

Whether vintage pieces on consignment or new items, they are fine quality, emphasizes Ms. Johnson. This is a priority. “The value of well-made pieces is unmistakable. All the furniture here is outstanding. For example, on consignment, we have a handsome sleigh bed by Henredon, an antique rosewood Chinese game table and chairs, a Charles P. Rogers campaign-style iron bed, a limited edition brass-glass dining table by Design Institute of America; a lattice-work bookcase by Fauld, and campaign-style cabinets by Henredon.”

A selection of special Chinoiserie pieces is also available. “Chinoiserie is my love and passion,” says Ms. Johnson. “I think it’s beautiful. Chinoiserie is the French word to describe the use of Chinese decoration and motifs in European — and now American — art, furniture, decor, etc.”

New retail upholstered sofas and chairs are available from C.R. Laine, and also solid wood pieces from Harden Furniture, including solid cherry dining tables and chairs. These can be custom-ordered.

In addition, Ms. Johnson offers a line of her own fabric designs for upholstery, draperies, bedding, table cloths, table skirts, etc. A variety of colors and designs is available.

There is also a selection of new artwork from the Wendover Art Group as well as paintings on consignment.

With a Twist

Customers will find an array of lamps, oriental rugs, glassware, candles, and decorative items, all chosen by Ms. Johnson to complement and enhance her clients’ home.

“I’ll be testing my market for a while to see what my clientele enjoys,” she points out. “I hope people will appreciate the aesthetic that I have created here. I think it is traditional with a twist, and I love whimsey.

“Also, everyone has very individual tastes, and I believe if you trust yourself, your own taste, and always choose things you love, they will work together. There will be a common thread. And, sometimes, there will be an unexpected touch to make it that special piece that you love. It’s about filling the space with beauty.”

Ms. Johnson notes that although customers’ choices are indeed eclectic, certain trends are noticeable today. “Color is coming back in fabrics and furnishings. It’s not just gray anymore. Now we’re seeing vibrant colors. In fact, I base some of my decisions on my garden. It has such interesting color combinations. I am really inspired by the colors and texture of my garden.”

The consignment arranged at Elephant in the Room Design is 50-50 for the store and the consignor, explains Ms. Johnson. Customers can email a photo with a description of additional information, or with an appointment, bring it to the store if it is a small item. Ms. Johnson will also pick up the item for a fee.

“The consignment period for each item is 12 weeks. If it is unsold after four weeks, it is marked down 15 percent, and another 15 percent after eight weeks. If it is still unsold after 12 weeks, it can be picked up by the owner or donated to a charity, and the owner can claim a tax deduction.”

Any Budget

Acceptance of consignment items is based on their quality and their marketability, says Ms. Johnson. “It has to fit the aesthetic of the store and also be suitable for today’s market.”

Ms. Johnson notes that items in the showroom range in price but are appropriate for any budget. “I have something for everyone! The spectrum includes high-end custom retail items to fine gently-used consigned pieces at reasonable prices.”

Ms. Johnson is very encouraged with the customer response in the short time the showroom has been open. “I feel so fortunate to be located in such a welcoming community. This is an excellent location. It’s a very nice shopping center, with very convenient parking.

“A consignment business can only be successful with the support of the community. You rely on consignors and customers to keep things moving. I strive to serve — and impress — both.

“What I really hope is that people will feel welcome and happy when they come here. I so much enjoy the interaction with the customers. It gives me energy. Most of all, I want this to be a place of joy, a place where customers will want to visit and come again.”

Elephant in the Room Design is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. (609) 454-3378. Website: elephantintheroomdesign.com.