In 1936, Harry Zarin opened a fabric store on Orchard street in a space so small that, according to his son Robert, "you had to walk in sideways." Fortunately, the store has since moved to a multi-level loft space on Grand street that now holds Zarin's dizzying array of upholstery and window fabrics.

Though they changed location (although, always remaining on the Lower East Side) and ownership--Harry's son Robert now runs the business-Zarin's maintained its connections in the fabric industry, allowing Robert and his staff to deal directly with fabric mills, cutting out the middleman and assuring a vast selection of textiles sold at discount prices.

But, Zarin's isn't just about quantity and discount prices; they sell some of the finest fabrics available to the public. Walk around Zarin's second floor fabric warehouse and at least one bolt of fabric is bound to catch your eye. If you want to ponder your purchase, you can take swatches of fabric home with you, place your order by phone or e-mail, and Zarin will deliver the fabric to your door. The store is truly a one stop home decorating experience, carrying everything from the hardware to install your window treatments to the trimmings that accessorize your upholstered items.

Visiting Harry Zarin is a pleasure not only for the selection but also for the sunny, helpful staff and luxurious surroundings. Robert Zarin was born into the business and has been working at the store since he was eight years old. From tending to the pushcart in front of his father's store to supervising the highly knowledgeable staff, he has helped turn Harry Zarin into the biggest better fabric warehouse in New York City. Over the years, former staff members have gone on to become luminaries in the fabric and decorating world, but only after testing their mettle at this Lower East Side institution.

With their newly renovated space, Harry Zarin continues to offer the best on the Lower East Side.