Dinette Designs Inc. of Mount Holly, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, features the area’s largest selection of dinette sets, bar and counter stools, pub sets, chairs, tables, kitchen furniture and more.
Dinette Designs is owned and operated by Steve Koster, who lives in the Yardville section of Hamilton with his wife, Maria. Prior to opening his own business, Koster worked for 10 years at the former Mack Dinette of Robbinsville.
“I always dreamed of opening my own business,” he said. “But I didn’t want to compete with Mack Dinette, a company that had been very good to me. I saw an opportunity at the Armory Plaza in Mount Holly, which was just far enough away. It has worked out great.”
There are more than 50 dinette sets and 80 barstools on display in the 2,800-square-foot showroom at Dinette Designs.
“We have a huge selection of quality merchandise right here, with many more options that can be customized,” Koster said. “Our products are very affordable.”
While dinette may seem like an old-fashioned term, Koster said it is very appropriate to describe their casual kitchen sets.
“We fill a niche,” he said. “Casual dining is our main business.”
The store also specializes in game tables, islands, bars and accessory pieces such as buffets, sideboards and TV stands. More than 25 brands are featured, including Canadel, Amisco Industries, Chromcraft and John Thomas.
Most items can be customized to fit each customer’s needs and décor, including color, sizes, heights, materials and fabrics.
“You choose, and we will put you with the right company,” Koster said. “I love working with customers to assess and meet their needs, and then see the end product that goes into their home.”
Koster also said that word of mouth is key to his business.
“We want to make sure that all our customers are completely satisfied,” he said.
He is also very proud of his staff.
“They are great,” he said. “They treat the store and customers as well as I do.”
Koster noted that although a lot of people start their search online, it’s very important to come in and see the merchandise.
“There is a lot to try out here,” he said. “We have lots of options, and are very experienced and well informed about what is available.”
The atmosphere at Dinette Designs is casual and friendly, not high-pressure.
“People are welcome to look around,” Koster said. “We are here to help them and find out what is important to them.”
“I really enjoy people,” he continued. “I love my job because there is always a new challenge, and every day is different. Every customer is different. I love coming to work every day.”
Delivery and set-up services are available. The store has just 3.5 percent sales tax because it is in the Mount Holly Urban Enterprise Zone. There is also a 10 percent military discount, and the store sometimes has special offers.
Dinette Designs Inc. is located at 1690 Route 38 in the Armory Plaza in Mount Holly. It is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11-4 p.m. Phone: (609) 702-9500.
Dinette Designs owner Steve Koster sits at a table in his Mount Holly showroom.,
