Homecrest began as an offspring of a retail furniture shop in Wadena, Minn. in 1953, when founders Mert Bottemiller and Al Engelemann set out to build a better hassock (now more commonly known as an ottoman) than their vendors could supply. They soon expanded their business into manufacturing with a growing line of indoor and outdoor furniture.

Bottemiller's swivel rocker mechanism, patented in 1956, was at the foundation of the Homecrest outdoor product line, which took off in the 1960s as Americans increasingly enjoyed backyard dining, entertaining and recreation. The popularity of Homecrest products soared and distribution extended nationwide.

As retail sales prospered, distribution expanded into new markets including international, and contract for resorts, restaurants and health care. The Homecrest product line also grew, with a stream of new collections, products and innovations including: self-adjusting chaise, swivel rocker recliner and chaise, gliders, padded slings and technically innovative fabrics, very low maintenance aluminum mesh, and the popular Comfort Recliner.

In the late 1990s, Baby Boomers began to fervently embrace their outdoor environments and seek more outdoor furnishings to satisfy their growing desire to cocoon, nest and socialize with friends and family. This movement also generated increased competition from lower priced import products and other market changes, which created numerous business challenges for Homecrest.

In response to the rapidly evolving outdoor living market, Homecrest has been redefined with new leaders, owners, and manufacturing strategies, and a bold new emphasis on marketing and trend-driven design. Building upon the brand's heritage of quality, performance and comfort, Homecrest's focus has broadened to encompass the demands of increasingly sophisticated, style-driven consumers seeking to complement their homes' interior designs and create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

The latest Homecrest collections reflect this trend, highlighted by detailed frame designs and fashionable finishes, stylish and comfortable cushion seating options, and an array of natural and faux stone tabletops. And the innovative HI Design Center helps to simplify the often-laborious process of shopping for custom outdoor furniture.

This 50-year old outdoor furniture brand combines a rich history of quality and classic design with today's demand for affordable luxury and versatile living. Homecrest is poised to build its future on consumer and contract needs, innovative new products and global opportunities.