Essentials for Living

Who We Are

Essentials For Living was born from the merger of two trusted brands, Star International Furniture and Orient Express Furniture bringing together decades of contemporary flair and transitional style. The result? A collection that's versatile, elevated, and always crafted with quality in mind. Headquartered in Southern California, EFL operates bi-coastal quick-ship distribution centers, powered by a dedicated team passionate about what they do. As our V.P. of Design and Merchandising Anna Schweiss puts in:

"Much of our style comes from our love for SoCal. We're often described as 'California Transitional' or 'California Coastal,' and we take that as a tremendous compliment. We love where we live, and that's reflected in the style of our furniture."

That relaxed sophistication shines through in every collection, from clean lines to calming palettes that capture the essence of indoor-outdoor living.

Why Work with Us?

At Essentials for Living, we know great design is only part of the story. Supporting the trade has been at the heart of our business for decades. Our Trade Program is designed to give designers the tools, resources, and service they need to succeed, including:

• Extensive In-Stock Furniture Program
• Dedicated Trade Department Sales Team
• EFL Freight Program
• East & West Coast Distribution Centers (each other 100,000 sq.ft.)
• Tiered Benefits Program

These resources allow us to deliver not only beautiful furniture, but also exceptional logistics and service, making your job easier and your projects run smoother.

Join Us at High Point: October 24th - 29th, 2025

High Point Market is always a highlight of the year, but 2025 feels extra special. With the opening our brand-new flagship showroom at 111 N. Wrenn Street- it is only a five-minute walk from Showplace & Interhall. At 23,000 square feet, the space has been thoughtfully designed in collaboration with a local architect and design firm. Every detail was considered to highlight what matters most: beautiful furniture styled in a way that feels livable, inspiring, and versatile. Stop by to see the latest introductions, experience our curated displays, and recharge with a bite to eat, a cocktail on the rooftop deck and gelato to round off your day.

At Essentials for Living, we believe in building community and creating timeless pieces that elevate everyday living. Our new High Point showroom is designed to be more than just a display of furniture, it's a place where designers can feel inspired, supported, and at home. We couldn't be more excited to welcome the design community in.

Get Connected

We'd love for you to be part of our community. Here are a few ways to stay connected:

Register for our Trade Program:

https://www.essentialsforliving.com/register

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram: @essentials_for_living

Facebook: @EssentialsForLivingFurniture

Contact Our Team:

E-Mail: Trade@essentialsforliving.com

Phone: 949-858-8087