Bassett Introduces The Chris Madden Collection Spring 2000.

Lifestyle Editors

Bassett, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 6, 2000

We all dream of a private place to escape the demands of modern life. The need to create a personal space or a private refuge for the family intensifies as the outside world becomes more high-tech and fast-paced. Whether as charming as a weekend retreat in the country, as idyllic as a rambling cottage on the beach, or as simple as a well-appointed and comfortable room in our own home, there is nothing like opening the door to a personal getaway after a long day or an extended journey.

In response to their consumer's increasing emphasis on creating comfortable havens in their own homes, Bassett(R) has teamed up with Chris Casson Madden, renowned interior design expert and prolific author, to create a new collection of furniture. "We are thrilled to be working with Chris. The association is a perfect fit for Bassett, inspiring women in their home decorating choices, while building on the Bassett image of quality, style, value and fun," said Bassett President and COO Robert H. Spilman Jr.

Bassett's new Chris Madden(TM) Collection is inspired by Madden's recently published book Getaways (Clarkson Potter, Spring 2000), an inspirational look at carefree retreats for all seasons. With chapter titles like Mountain Road, Sea Breezes, Reclaiming the Past, and Family Ties, the beautifully illustrated book introduces the reader to a variety of people and the private retreats they have created. "I know that my own life has become so much more hectic, with work, family and social commitments," said Madden. "My family and I look forward to the rare times when we can come together, relax and rejuvenate. And now I've been able to design a collection of furniture that my family and I can enjoy, no matter where we are."

To capture the character of a getaways lifestyle, the collection draws inspiration from Madden's own home as well as the personal experiences she has gained creating soothing escapes for her celebrity clients, including Oprah Winfrey, Katie Couric and Toni Morrison. It reflects Madden's exquisite flair for design and her ability to create character and charm in any room, bringing warmth to all corners of the home. "Creating your own space to relax and recharge from the complexities of day-to-day life," says Madden "is the single most important part of developing your own home."

Combining elements of old and new, this major collection is reflective of the relaxed European traditional style of design. It is a series of livable and eclectic groups for the living room, bedroom and dining room, complemented with imports, accessories and special `signature' pieces reflecting Madden's travels across the country and around the world. The result, encompassing traditional country, contemporary and casual classics, is a versatile assortment that feels hand-selected and unique. Chris Madden's attention to detail, combined with Bassett's legendary high-quality craftsmanship, has created a stylish and memorable collection.

The Bassett and Madden partnership began in 1998 when Madden was signed on as a Creative Consultant to offer her expertise on home fashion trends, decorating and home furnishings. Soon after partnering with Bassett, Madden helped launch the successful Bassett Idea Club, a guide for do-it-yourself decorators that includes a resource book, an Idea Box filled with essential decorating tools, and monthly decorating newsletters. Because of her ability to establish a dialogue with consumers, Madden has become a spokesperson for Bassett and appears in advertising and collateral for the brand.

The Chris Madden Collection by Bassett will be available to the consumer Spring 2000 through Bassett(R) Furniture Direct(R) stores, @t Home With Bassett(R) as well as select national retailers.

Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc. is one of the world's largest manufacturers and marketers of home furnishings. Its products are sold in more than 33 countries through many channels, including Bassett Furniture Direct stores, major department stores, and other regional and upscale furniture stores. Bassett's stock (BSET) is traded on the NASDAQ market. For more information on Bassett, visit the company's website at http://www.bassettfurniture.com .