By Katie Melton
Some local residents may not realize that one of the first companies to ever arrive in Maple Leaf remains right in the heart of the neighborhood.
A.W. Hoss & Son, an upholstery and furniture manufacturing company at 9221 Roosevelt Way N.E, has been family-run and owned in the Seattle area since 1936.
The upholstery company, which has done work for major national and local commercial bus
inesses including Nordstrom and the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, was built on Broadway in Capitol Hill by Amos W. Hoss. His son, Larry Hoss, migrated the businesses to Maple Leaf in 1960, originally in an older, smaller home located across the street from the current warehouse. At the time, most of Maple Leaf had been annexed into Seattle for only six years.
The business began to thrive, so in 1970 the businesses moved across the street into what is now the largest custom furniture showroom in the metro area.
What kind of furniture should you bring into A.W. Hoss?
“We redo anything, but we’re honest with people. We mostly reupholster furniture from the 1930s and 40s, as well as custom build furniture for our customers,” explains Rich Hoss, one of three of Larry Hoss’ children.
The shop also offers a variety of fabric and leathers that are suitable for commercial and residential use.
For those interested in an environmentally friendly home or shop, Hoss has a full line of “green” products, ranging from recycled and natural fabrics to soy-based foam.
The family business is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. To honor the company’s successful years, A.W. Hoss will be having special deals starting on the first of each month, something the company has have never done before. The shop will also be offering 5 percent off an order if you “like” them on Facebook.
A.W. Hoss is happy to provide service to their local neighbors and businesses. “We’re proud of the quality work we do. We don’t cut any corners. Everything is done kind of old school here,” Rich said.
Maple Leaf neighbors should be proud to know that they contribute 30 percent of the company’s business, and will receive some special treatment. “We provide free delivery and free pick up only for Maple Leaf residents, or those within a five-mile radius of the store,” said Susie Hoss, daughter of Larry.
Make sure to check out the website to find out what the signature deals each month will be. Or, swing on by the store, which is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
Katie Melton is the intern for Maple Leaf Life. She is a journalism student at the University of Washington.
Yeah Hoss family! These are great people ~ went to high school with them. Never had a need for furniture repair (yet) but will for sure patronize them in the future if the need presents itself!