Rosenthal Contemporary Interiors to close after 128 years in business

Retailer recognized as a leader in contemporary and luxury furnishings

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — After 128 years of family ownership, Rosenthal Contemporary Interiors is going out of business, effectively ceasing operations of one of the state’s oldest furniture retailers.

The company, which got its start in 1895, began its liquidation sale on Nov. 9. The sale event continues until all the inventory is sold from its two stores, a location in downtown Minneapolis that also is up for sale, and a location in Minnetonka.

Promotional sales specialists Planned Furniture Promotions is handling the liquidation.

 “There is a proud heritage of quality and service in this century-old business, and we’re honored to help the Rosenthal family preserve that legacy as we close out this business of 128 years,” said Tom Liddell, PFP senior vice president.

Aaron and Rose Rosenthal and their son, Harold, began the discount furniture store in 1895 as Rosenthal Furniture. After years of continuing to operate the business, Harold Rosenthal passed the business on to his children and later to his granddaughter Rosie in the late 1980s. She shared ownership with her cousin, Scott, until 1999 when she bought out his share of the business and gained full ownership.

Under Rosie’s leadership, the business shifted its focus to contemporary luxury furniture. And upon joining Contemporary Design Group as the sole Minnesota member of the buying group at that time, she changed the name of the company in 2017 to Rosenthal Contemporary Interiors, which further identified its focus and position in luxury design.

“Through 128 years of the family business, the Rosenthals proved their fortitude and resilience through two economic recessions as well as a fire and flood at their flagship store in downtown Minneapolis,” PFP said, adding that the store underwent a six-figure renovation six years ago, “transforming it into the upscale space it is today.”