At the risk of sounding sentimental, Barewood really is a family story. It began with the Grace family—Joe and Robin—a husband-and-wife duo who poured more than 35 years into growing both their business and their family. Their mission was simple but powerful: bring Tampa Bay high-quality real wood furniture and back it with excellent customer service. Judging by the loyal following they built, it worked.
By 2019, Joe and Robin were ready for retirement. They had already closed six of their seven stores when we came by to visit our friends’ shop before the final chapter closed. At first, we were hesitant—what did two outsiders really know about the furniture business? But then we spoke with Joe, and even more importantly, with his customers. That’s when it clicked: this wasn’t just a business worth saving, it was a mission worth continuing.
So, with a teacher’s love for design and a business leader’s knack for operations, we jumped in. We rolled up our sleeves—painting walls, reworking layouts, refreshing décor, and curating new pieces. Little by little, we started shaping the store into something both familiar and new.
And then… COVID.
Just months after taking over in September 2019, we had to close our doors in April 2020. It was a scary time, no doubt, but we used those quiet months to tackle the projects we hadn’t gotten to yet. When the doors finally reopened, our community came back strong—ready to make their homes more beautiful, cozier, and personal after so much time indoors.
The six years since have been a whirlwind. We’ve learned the ins and outs of furniture, the art of finishing, and—maybe the trickiest part—how to work together as husband and wife without driving each other crazy (Well... MOSTLY).
Through it all, we’re deeply grateful: to Joe and Robin for their unwavering support, and to our amazing customers who have trusted us, cheered us on, and truly made this journey possible. We look forward to many more years of helping Tampa Bay (and beyond!) fill their homes with furniture that lasts, and stories that do too.