benjamin hubert expands upholstered talma collection for moroso

Benjamin Hubert, a London-based designer, has expanded his Talma collection for Italian brand Moroso by introducing a stackable dining chair. This new addition features removable covers, aligning with the aesthetic of his existing Talma lounge chair and reinforcing the collection's core concept of "fashion for furniture." The name "Talma" is inspired by a type of sleeveless cloak, which directly reflects the design's emphasis on textile coverings. The Talma dining chair is characterized by its padded fabric cover, which functions as both the seat and backrest, enveloping a minimalist metal frame. This cover is crafted from a quilted fabric with leather trim, a material developed in collaboration with Dutch textile brand Innofa. The design allows the cover to be easily slipped over a CNC-formed steel frame, with zips securing it in place. This modular approach highlights the chair's adaptability and offers practicality for maintenance and aesthetic changes. The chair's structure incorporates a rounded back and subtly angled sides, contributing to its modern and inviting appearance. It is available in two configurations: with or without armrests, providing versatility to suit various interior needs and user preferences. The introduction of the dining chair follows the success of the Talma lounge chair, which was first unveiled at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile furniture fair in Milan the previous year, where the dining chair also made its debut. Both pieces showcase Hubert's vision of furniture that can be 'dressed' or customized, akin to clothing. This collection by Benjamin Hubert and Moroso exemplifies a trend in furniture design where textiles play a crucial role not only in comfort but also in defining the object's form and style. The removable covers offer functional benefits, such as ease of cleaning and the ability to update the chair's look, while also providing a unique design language that sets the Talma collection apart. The collaboration with Innofa underscores the importance of specialized textile development in achieving the desired aesthetic and tactile qualities. #BenjaminHubert #Moroso #TalmaCollection #DiningChair #FurnitureDesign #MilanDesignWeek #TextileDesign #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign

Benjamin Hubert, a London-based designer, collaborated with Italian brand Moroso to create the Talma lounge chair, a piece of furniture designed to be both compact and innovative. The chair's name, 'Talma,' references a type of cloak, which reflects its design aesthetic: it appears to be wrapped in a padded textile, much like a body would be enveloped by a cloak. This aesthetic choice is integral to the chair's construction and its environmental considerations. Beneath the distinctive padded exterior lies a lightweight metal frame. This construction method aligns with the design studio's objective of reducing the material usage, weight, and overall cost typically associated with the traditional manufacturing of upholstered chairs. The frame is crafted using CNC-shaped steel, and integrated upholstery straps provide essential support. This approach allows for a significant reduction in the amount of polyurethane foam required for cushioning, thereby contributing to a lower carbon footprint for the product. The custom-made textile used for the chair's padded cover was developed through a collaboration with Innofa. This textile is specifically designed to incorporate padding directly, eliminating the need for extensive additional foam. The cover is meticulously secured to the chair's frame using strategically placed zippers and two fastenings located at the front of the chair. This fastening system not only ensures the cover remains in place but also contributes to the chair's neat and tailored appearance. The Talma lounge chair represents a design that prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility. By utilizing a minimal metal frame and an integrated padded textile cover, Benjamin Hubert and Moroso have developed a lounge chair that is not only visually striking but also mindful of its material impact. The design showcases an innovative approach to furniture construction, where the outer layer is not merely decorative but functionally essential in providing comfort and structural integrity while reducing the overall environmental footprint. #LoungeChair #BenjaminHubert #Moroso #FurnitureDesign #SustainableDesign #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernFurniture

Habitat, a renowned furniture brand known for its affordable, design-led, and on-trend furniture, has recently introduced a new made-to-order upholstery collection. This collection features a wide array of fabrics and colors, available across a selection of sofas, armchairs, and footstools, offering customers a personalized shopping experience. All pieces in the collection are manufactured in the UK and include both revitalized archive designs and new creations from Habitat's in-house design studio. The collection brings back popular archive designs such as the Hendricks, Swift, and Fenner sofas, updated with modern finishes and contemporary color palettes. Additionally, new designs have been introduced, including the mid-century inspired Turnmill, James Cottingham's Scandi-influenced Ayr, and Will Hudson's timeless Holmfirth sofa. The range emphasizes diversity in its offerings, featuring a broad spectrum of vibrant colors like papaya, burnt orange, sky blue, and emerald green, alongside various neutral hues, ensuring suitability for diverse interior schemes. Customers can choose from a variety of fabric types, including flat weave, textured weave, chenille, and a plush velvet made from 100 percent recycled materials. For enhanced practicality, an Aquaclean fabric option is available, which incorporates stain-resistant technology, allowing for cleaning with just water. Hannah Mallett, director of product for Habitat, highlights that the made-to-order collection aims to meet customer demand for a more personalized experience, providing extensive choices to create furniture that perfectly matches their individual preferences. The collection offers 21 new colorways and five different fabric qualities, applicable to two-seater, three-seater, chaise, and corner seating styles. Furthermore, customers can customize their furniture by selecting between dark wood or lighter ash finishes for the legs. Each sofa in the collection is constructed with FSC-certified timber, underscoring a commitment to sustainable sourcing. The furniture also comes with a 15-year guarantee and includes home assembly services, adding convenience and assurance for purchasers. The article showcases several notable pieces from the collection, such as the Frome 3-Seater Sofa, ideal for mid-century or Scandi-inspired interiors with its curved back and low armrests. The Turnmill 2-Seater Sofa, a popular comeback, offers a mid-century design with a reclining back and lumbar-supporting bolsters. The Fenner 2-Seater Sofa combines hand-buttoned, deep-fill seats with a neat box frame, suiting contemporary living spaces. The Habitat Lomond Left Hand Corner Sofa is part of the 'Full Circle' range, designed for full recyclability at the end of its life, featuring a gently angled design. The Ayr Reversible Corner Sofa provides a low and boxy style with wide armrests and generously padded cushions, emphasizing comfort and contemporary aesthetics. The Brooker 3-Seater Sofa blends traditional and modern elements with a Chesterfield-inspired deep button back, rolled arms, and curved legs. Lastly, the Askem Cuddle Chair offers a contemporary take on a classic shape, providing sinkingly soft and tactile comfort with a tall backrest and plump seat, while the Swift Reversible Corner Sofa, a Habitat classic, features an elegant design with curved arms, tapered legs, and ample scatter cushions. #Habitat #UpholsteryCollection #MadeToOrder #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDecor #Sofa #Armchair #HomeFurnishings #SustainableMaterials

The article highlights the work of London designer Benjamin Hubert, focusing on his innovative approach to seating design, particularly as showcased during Milan Design Week 2013. Hubert's design philosophy is characterized by a "materials-driven, process-led, industrial design approach," which prioritizes research into materials and construction methods to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable products. Three specific lounge chairs are featured: Cradle, Talma, and Membrane. Each chair demonstrates Hubert's unique methodology and commitment to reducing material usage and environmental impact. Cradle is a lounge chair that merges the characteristics of a net-structured hammock with a conventional upholstered lounge chair. Its design leverages a custom-made cut pattern in a non-elastic textile to achieve a three-dimensional form, providing comfortable support while visually and physically minimizing the product's weight and cost. The structure consists of a metal frame supporting this textile, which cradles an upholstered seat block. This innovation allows for efficient material use and a distinctive aesthetic. Talma, another compact lounge chair, takes its name from a type of cloak, reflecting its construction where a softly padded textile is wrapped around a lightweight metal framework. This design mirrors how a cloak envelops the body, and the studio's research aimed to reduce the material, weight, and cost associated with traditional upholstered chairs. Talma utilizes a CNC-shaped steel framework that defines the chair's form and incorporates integrated upholstery straps for support. A custom-made textile, developed in collaboration with Innofa, with integrated padding, is wrapped around this framework and secured with zips and fastenings. This construction significantly reduces the amount of polyurethane foam typically found in armchairs, thereby lowering the product's carbon footprint. Membrane is a lounge chair notable for its extremely light weight, at just 3kg. It features a lightweight steel and aluminum framework combined with a stretched 3D woven textile mesh. The design draws inspiration from the construction of tents and sports products, specifically focusing on space frames and stretched textiles. A CNC-shaped stainless steel and aluminum framework forms the chair's structure, which is then enveloped in a 3D woven textile with integrated padding. This type of construction and material choice is more commonly seen in the sporting goods industry. Similar to Talma, the cover is attached to the framework using zips and fastenings, allowing Membrane to minimize the use of polyurethane foam and consequently reduce its environmental impact. Benjamin Hubert, born in 1984, leads a team of industrial designers working across various sectors, including furniture, lighting, consumer goods, architectural installations, and art direction. His studio has received numerous accolades, including the Design of the Year (British Design Awards 2010), Best Product (100% Design/Blueprint Awards 2009), Homes and Gardens Young Designer of the Year (Design Classic Awards 2010), EDIDA International Young Designer of the Year 2010, the A+W Audi Mentorpreis 2012, and the winning commission for the Poltrona Frau Centenary armchair. These awards underscore his significant contributions and innovative approach to contemporary design. #BenjaminHubert #IndustrialDesign #FurnitureDesign #LoungeChair #MilanDesignWeek2013 #SustainableDesign #ProductInnovation #MaterialResearch #ContemporaryDesign

Carole Baijings of Scholten & Baijings discusses the design process behind their Ottoman seating range for Italian furniture brand Moroso, emphasizing the integral role of the textile in its development. The Ottoman daybed, unveiled at the Salone del Mobile furniture fair in Milan, features a unique fabric called Blocks and Grid, which Scholten & Baijings specifically designed for New York textiles brand Maharam. This design approach diverges from traditional methods where the furniture's form is established first, followed by upholstery selection. Instead, Baijings explains that the design of the daybed was initiated with the creation of the textile itself. The Blocks and Grid fabric is a blend of wool and nylon, characterized by a pattern of intersecting lines and rectangles. A key innovation in this textile is its unusually large nine-meter pattern repeat. This extensive repeat length ensures that an entire sofa can be upholstered without any visible repetition of the pattern, providing a unique aesthetic for each piece. Baijings clarifies that the nine-meter repeat was a deliberate choice, determined by the fabric requirements for two- or three-seater sofas, thereby allowing consumers to acquire a distinct product that appears custom-made despite utilizing a mass-produced textile. While Scholten & Baijings had previously collaborated with Herman Miller to upholster chairs using the Blocks and Grid fabric, the Ottoman daybed marks the first instance where a furniture piece was conceived and designed specifically around this textile. The duo intentionally contrasts the geometric patterns of the Blocks and Grid fabric with the soft, flowing lines of the Ottoman daybed's structure. The seat features a curvaceous, scoop-like form, complemented by rounded cushions. The color palette further enhances this contrast, pairing neutral greys with bold, vibrant hues such as pinks, greens, or yellows for the cushions and other accents. This juxtaposition of geometric and organic forms, along with the interplay of subdued and bright colors, contributes to the distinctive visual appeal of the Ottoman collection. Baijings highlights the significance of their collaboration with Moroso, noting that the brand's willingness to embrace color aligns perfectly with Scholten & Baijings' design philosophy. She expresses that working with Patrizia Moroso, who appreciates bold color applications, was a fulfilling experience, describing it as a "dream come true." This partnership underscores a shared vision for innovative and visually engaging furniture design. The movie documenting this design process was produced by Dezeen for Moroso and features music by UK producer 800xL, further detailing the creative journey of the Ottoman daybed from textile concept to finished product. #ScholtenBaijings #Moroso #OttomanDaybed #TextileDesign #FurnitureDesign #SaloneDelMobile #BlocksAndGridFabric #MilanDesignWeek #Daybeds

Hermès' latest homeware collection, unveiled at Milan Design Week 2021, emphasizes the integration of raw and natural materials into urban living spaces. The collection aims to reintroduce texture, color, and physicality, drawing inspiration from biophilic design principles to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and foster creativity within the home environment. The collection features items crafted by artisans and experts globally, utilizing materials such as cashmere, stone, lacquer, beechwood, and white porcelain. A prominent piece in the collection is the Sillage d’Hermès armchair, an organically shaped seat inspired by global aesthetics. It is constructed from beechwood and coated with a unique cellulose microfibre compound sourced from Puglia, Italy, a region known for its 16th-century papier-mâché tradition. This treatment gives the armchair a raw, textured finish, evoking a wabi-sabi aesthetic. The chair is further adorned with hand-varnished and hand-painted vertical lines, creating a striking visual effect that adds a touch of sophistication. Accompanying the armchair, the H Dye plaid throw is presented as a quintessential Hermès home accessory. These hand-woven throws are dyed in a vibrant array of color combinations, including bronze and citron, soleil and terracotta, and cobalt and jade, offering a playful yet elegant addition to any interior. The collection also includes the Lignage d’Hermès stone table, which initially appears black but reveals white engravings when carved, showcasing the transformative nature of natural materials. The collection also features the ‘Hippomobile’ tea set, designed by Gianpaolo Pagni, which introduces a whimsical touch with its equestrian-themed patterns. This set includes stacking porcelain dessert plates and tea cups, all adorned with playful horse illustrations, injecting a sense of joy and heritage into daily rituals. The tableware is complemented by ‘Chromatic’ baskets, crafted from wicker and leather, which serve both functional and decorative purposes, contributing to the collection's overall emphasis on tactile and visual richness. Another notable item is the ‘Park’ jewellery box, made from saddle-stitched bridle leather, which exemplifies Hermès' dedication to traditional craftsmanship and luxurious materials. The collection as a whole demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and the use of natural resources, reflecting a broader trend towards environmentally conscious design. By bringing these elements into the home, Hermès seeks to create living spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also conducive to mental and physical well-being, fostering a deeper connection with nature and craftsmanship. #Hermes #HomeCollection #MilanDesignWeek #BiophilicDesign #NaturalMaterials #LuxuryHomeware #InteriorDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #SustainableDesign

British architect John Pawson has partnered with Danish timber brand Dinesen to introduce a new furniture collection. This collaboration marks Pawson's latest venture into product design, following a long-standing relationship between the architect and the 125-year-old wood company. The collection, characterized by its pared-back aesthetic and minimal design, features a range of tables and seating options crafted primarily from Dinesen's signature ash wood. The launch encompasses a Lounge Series, which includes a stool, a daybed, and an armchair. These upholstered pieces are available with textiles from the renowned brand Kvadrat, adding a touch of softness to the otherwise austere wooden frames. Additionally, the collection introduces a Dining Series, comprising various tables and complementary seating. The design philosophy behind these pieces reflects Pawson's well-known minimalist approach, emphasizing clean lines, functional forms, and the inherent beauty of the natural material. The partnership between Pawson and Dinesen dates back approximately three decades, originating from the architect's need for simple, custom-made furniture for his London residence. Pawson initially crafted these pieces from Dinesen's ash wood planks, effectively laying the groundwork for this official collaboration. Both Pawson and Hans Peter Dinesen, the fifth-generation brand director, share a profound appreciation for wood as a foundational element in design. They view furniture not merely as objects but as stages upon which life unfolds, highlighting its role in shaping personal narratives within the home. Hans Peter Dinesen articulates this sentiment by stating that furniture serves as a medium for shared stories, particularly within domestic settings. Pawson further emphasizes the significance of furniture placement, noting that even minor adjustments can profoundly impact a space's ambiance and functionality. This attention to detail and thoughtful arrangement underscores the collection's alignment with principles of intentional living and design. To formally unveil the collection, Pawson and Dinesen are preparing a special presentation for the upcoming 3 Days of Design festival in Copenhagen. During this event, Dinesen's Copenhagen showroom will be transformed into a model apartment, meticulously furnished with pieces from the new line. This immersive experience will allow visitors to witness the collection in a realistic setting, demonstrating its versatility and integration within a residential environment. The exhibition will also serve as a practical demonstration of Pawson's philosophy on furniture arrangement and its impact on living spaces. #JohnPawson #Dinesen #FurnitureCollection #MinimalistDesign #WoodFurniture #InteriorDesign #DanishDesign #DesignCollaboration #ContemporaryFurniture

Herman Miller, in collaboration with Danish design label Hay, has launched a new collection that reinterprets iconic Eames designs. This partnership celebrates Hay’s 20th anniversary and infuses contemporary colors and updated materials into classic pieces by Charles and Ray Eames. The collection will be available across North America, South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa. The collaboration was driven by Rolf and Mette Hay's long-standing admiration for Herman Miller and the Eameses, recognizing their shared values of playfulness, curiosity, and experimental use of new technologies. Rolf Hay emphasized the Eameses' ability to create high-quality industrial design for a broad audience through smart production methods, a philosophy that aligns with Hay's own mission. Mette Hay undertook extensive research within Herman Miller's archives, examining Eames ephemera, auction prototypes, and museum catalogues, as well as out-of-production textiles by Alexander Girard, to inform the color palette. Her goal was to modernize the color approach without entirely abandoning the original aesthetic. The collection features eight reimagined Eames designs, including the 'Eames Molded Plastic Chair' (available with and without arms), the 'Wire Chair', 'Wire Base Low Table', the 'Universal Base Round Table', and the 'Hang It All' coat rack. These pieces are presented in playful new shades such as toffee, iron red, indigo, mint green, powder pink, and powder yellow. A significant update for the 'Eames Molded Plastic Chair' is its construction from 100% post-industrial recycled plastic, highlighting a commitment to sustainability. A special edition of the 'Eames Compact Sofa' is also part of the collection, featuring a 1955 colorway of Alexander Girard’s Jacob’s Coat textile. This inclusion pays homage to the close personal and professional relationship between the Eameses and Girard, with Maharam faithfully reissuing the textile at Mette Hay's request. Another highlight is the 'Molded Plywood Chair', now offered in emerald green. Overall, the Herman Miller x Hay collection not only celebrates the artistic vision of Charles and Ray Eames but also underscores their influential creative dialogue with Alexander Girard. This collaboration emphasizes the Hays’ dedication to partnership and their commitment to the Eameses’ philosophy of making good design accessible to everyone. The contemporary updates are designed to appeal to both long-time enthusiasts and new admirers of these timeless pieces. #HermanMiller #Hay #Eames #DesignCollaboration #FurnitureDesign #MidCenturyModern #ProductRedesign #SustainableDesign

Holly Hunt, a significant figure in the interior design industry, has been inducted into the 2024 Interior Design Hall of Fame. Born in 1942 in San Angelo, Texas, Hunt initially pursued a career in fashion after majoring in English at Texas Tech. Her early professional experience included an executive training program at Foley’s, a Houston department store, and a role as an assistant buyer in millinery, followed by designing for a costume jewelry company in New York City in 1969. Hunt’s pivotal entry into the design world occurred in 1983 when she acquired R.J. Randolph, a struggling showroom at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. She rebranded it under her own name, HOLLY HUNT, and embarked on a mission to redefine the showroom experience. Her approach was revolutionary for its time, focusing on elevating customer service, improving product display, and introducing transparency in pricing—a practice that faced initial industry resistance. Hunt curated showrooms that resembled actual living spaces, integrating architectural details, artwork, and a diverse mix of products and styles. She championed established designers like Vladimir Kagan and Rose Tarlow, while also discovering and promoting emerging talents such as glass artist Alison Berger and furniture maker Christian Astuguevieille. The company’s sophisticated branding and marketing materials were developed with the avant-garde graphics studio Thirst, all united by a commitment to superior quality. A key collaboration in the early 1990s was with French furniture designer Christian Liaigre, whose sleek, monochromatic aesthetic resonated with Hunt’s own. Hunt’s company became instrumental in manufacturing and distributing Liaigre’s designs in the U.S., influencing American interior design with rich dark woods and creamy textiles. This partnership gained significant recognition when André Balazs's Mercer Hotel in Manhattan opened with Liaigre-designed interiors in 1997. Hunt’s strategic vision extended to expanding her showrooms, notably opening one in the nascent Miami Design District in 1998. Designed by architect Alison Spear, this showroom deviated from conventional layouts, offering a luxury boutique experience accessible to all. Another Manhattan showroom, intended to open in October 2001, was successfully launched just two months after the 9/11 events, demonstrating Hunt’s resilience and foresight. She navigated the 2008 recession by restructuring her company, which led to the creation of Holly Hunt Modern, a collection that surpassed the profitability of her previous collaborations. In 2014, Knoll acquired HOLLY HUNT for $110 million. Hunt remained CEO for two years, overseeing expansions in Dallas and Los Angeles, and continued as a consultant until 2019. During this period, she undertook design projects such as a penthouse at the Surf Club in Miami Beach. Currently, Hunt leads House of Hunt, a Chicago-based interior architecture and furniture studio, engaging in projects ranging from product design, like the Dune sofa for HOLLY HUNT, to comprehensive home renovations. Her career trajectory is marked by continuous evolution and an adaptability to challenges, consistently eschewing rigid business plans in favor of dynamic engagement. #HollyHunt #InteriorDesign #HallOfFame #FurnitureDesign #ShowroomInnovation #DesignEntrepreneur #LuxuryDesign #ChristianLiaigre #DesignIndustry

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a 1936 brick Tudor home in Denver's Hilltop neighborhood, transformed by designer Jodi Cook for a young family. Initially, the 2,300-square-foot house suffered from an outdated layout, including choppy rooms, a galley kitchen, and a long formal living room, reflective of its untouched 1980s aesthetic. The clients, recognizing the need for a complete overhaul, collaborated with Cook to reimagine the space. The renovation focused on modernizing the home while retaining its classic and traditional essence. A key design choice was the extensive use of Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace white paint throughout the interiors, chosen for its clean and crisp qualities. To prevent the neutral palette from feeling stark, brass fixtures were incorporated for warmth, in contrast to the colder appearance of chrome. The design strategy also heavily emphasized the integration of pattern and texture, seen in a rose-and-gray bedroom scheme and an ikat-patterned tile wall in a bathroom, ensuring visual interest and contrast. Functionality and durability were paramount, especially considering the family's two young children and another on the way. Cook prioritized hard-wearing surfaces and fabrics to withstand daily family life. Examples include vinyl bar stools, designed to endure spills and sticky fingers, and an outdoor fabric used for the TV room sectional, chosen for its exceptional resilience. The white painted walls were also selected for their practicality, allowing for easy cleaning with a Magic Eraser, thus liberating the homeowners from constant worry about wear and tear. The structural changes were significant. The renovation involved reconfiguring all main living areas, notably converting the existing dining room into a spacious new kitchen, which became the heart of the home. An addition was seamlessly integrated, expanding the house from four bedrooms and four baths to five bedrooms and five and a half baths, providing ample space for the growing family. This expansion also enabled the creation of a spacious new master suite on the second floor, utilizing what was previously an unused covered patio. An exterior facelift further enhanced the property's appeal. The original mismatched bricks, particularly those from the enclosed patio, were unified with a coat of Benjamin Moore's Ballet White paint, complemented by black accents for a classic yet modern look. New windows and a roof were installed, and gutters and fascia were painted to match the windows, contributing to a cohesive and polished facade. Cook's advice to use brighter paint indoors than outdoors in Colorado was applied to account for the intense sunlight. The project successfully transformed a dated property into a functional, stylish, and family-friendly residence. #HomeRenovation #TudorStyle #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #ModernClassic #DurableDesign #SpaceExpansion #BenjaminMoorePaint #HilltopDenver

Rahul Mishra, an acclaimed couturier, has unveiled his largest store to date, Maison Rahul Mishra, located at Horniman Circle in Mumbai. This 7,500-square-foot flagship store is designed to be more than just a retail space; it is a physical manifestation of Mishra’s unique creative ethos, meticulously crafted to reflect the brand's identity even without the presence of clothing. The interior design incorporates elements directly inspired by Mishra's collections, such as carpets featuring his motifs, light fixtures inlaid with bees and butterflies, and walls adorned with kora muslin embroidery swatches, ensuring that the brand's essence is palpable throughout the space. To realize this ambitious vision, Mishra collaborated with AD100 designer and architect Rooshad Shroff. Shroff's approach involved an extensive two-month research period into the Rahul Mishra universe, resulting in a concept that resonated deeply with the designer from the outset. Shroff envisioned the store as a 'museum' dedicated to Mishra's work, emphasizing his connection to the natural world, Indian craft traditions, and narrative-driven design. This conceptual framework is intended to be adaptable for future store locations, allowing each flagship to draw inspiration from different themes, such as aquatic life or celestial bodies, while collectively offering a comprehensive brand experience. The store's layout is designed to provide a holistic and immersive journey. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a tranquil gallery space devoid of garments, serving as a prelude to the main retail area. This introductory section features framed hand-painted renderings of floral and entomological motifs, botanical drawings, insect studies, swatches, watercolors, and even pressed flowers, evoking the feel of Mishra's personal sketchbook and his research into nature. This deliberate presentation aims to prepare visitors for the artistic narrative that underpins the brand's fashion. Beyond the entrance gallery, the store unfolds into a series of interconnected chambers, creating a labyrinth-like circulation. These varied spaces, ranging in size and mood, guide visitors through different 'sub-chapters' of the overarching flora and fauna narrative. The journey culminates in a final chamber dedicated to couture, where garments are presented as wearable art. A notable feature in this section is the theatrical ceiling, adorned with over a thousand hand-crafted metal birds in mid-flight, complemented by bird motifs intricately detailed in wood marquetry on the walls. This cohesive design ensures that every corner of the store offers a new visual experience while maintaining a unified brand identity. The collaboration between Mishra and Shroff is characterized by their shared respect for Indian craft traditions and their ability to contemporize these elements for both Indian and global audiences. Mishra expressed admiration for Shroff's interpretation of his creative world, highlighting how Shroff transformed subtle details from past collections into architectural and interior design features. A specific example is the dragonfly motif, originally from Mishra’s Paris Haute-Couture Super Heroes collection, which Shroff reinterpreted as a sculptural marble lighting fixture. The store extensively utilizes custom-made elements, from hand-embroidered walls crafted by Mishra’s artisans to Shroff’s signature wood marquetry and specially designed lampshades and vases, all contributing to an immersive and bespoke brand universe. This deep level of customization and integration of design principles makes the Mumbai flagship Mishra's most intimate store, despite its size, offering a unique microcosm of his artistic vision. #RahulMishra #Mumbai #FlagshipStore #Couture #IndianCraftsmanship #RooshadShroff #InteriorDesign #FashionRetail #ArchitecturalDesign

Interior designer Bria Hammel is preparing to launch her own home furnishings line, Brooke & Lou, in August, named after her two children. Hammel's business, which she started with a single assistant six years ago, has grown significantly, now employing a team of 12 and handling projects across multiple states. The new collection is designed to be "life-friendly," catering to the common client request for durable pieces that can withstand daily wear and tear from children and common household incidents like spilled wine. The product line will encompass upholstered furniture, case goods, accessories, wallpapers, and pillows. Hammel describes the aesthetic of Brooke & Lou as a "fresh take on traditional preppy style," drawing inspiration from her Texan roots and an affinity for Southern design. This influence is intended to create a welcoming, bright, and cheerful home environment. The article highlights some of Hammel's previous design projects, showcasing her personal style, which she characterizes as a blend of coastal, preppy, and cottage elements. An example of this is a powder room featured in the article. Another project, a black-and-white entry, is noted as being particularly popular among her extensive Instagram following, which exceeds 45,000. The emphasis on practicality is further illustrated by a kitchen design where the fabric on the bar stools is described as "life-friendly," capable of easy cleaning even after spills like spaghetti. The collection aims to make stylish yet robust home furnishings more accessible to a broader audience. #BriaHammel #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #BrookeAndLou #KidFriendlyDesign #LifeFriendlyProducts #SouthernStyle #PreppyDesign

British designer Jasper Morrison has unveiled an expansion of his T&O; furniture collection for Japanese brand Maruni, introducing two new tables that combine wood and painted steel elements. The new pieces, which were first showcased at Salone del Mobile in April, build upon the aesthetic established by the original T&O; chair and table designed in 2016. The collection's name, T&O;, is derived from the subtle resemblance of its components to the letters 'T' and 'O', where the crossbar of the 'T' and the circularity of the 'O' are reflected in the design. The new additions include a rectangular table featuring red steel legs with circular bases, and a smaller circular table supported by a similarly shaped metal stem. Morrison highlights the unique use of materials in his designs, noting that while combining wood and steel is not unusual, his approach of integrating steel, particularly with color, between wooden parts, brings a fresh perspective to furniture typology. He specifically appreciates the contrast between the round base and the square tops of the tables, as well as the wooden bar connecting the legs of the longer tables, which positions the metal elements strategically within the wooden structure. Morrison envisions the T&O; collection as versatile, suitable for both home environments and certain commercial settings, citing an instance where he saw pieces from the collection in a Tsutaya bookstore in Japan. His collaboration with Maruni dates back to 2011, during which he has also designed a wood-framed bench-like sofa for the brand. Recognized as a leading industrial designer globally, Morrison's design philosophy is characterized by his "super normal" aesthetic, focusing on creating everyday objects that are both functional and subtly elegant. He received his education at Kingston Polytechnic and the Royal College of Art in London, establishing his studio in 2008, which now operates internationally with offices in Tokyo and Paris. His extensive portfolio includes collaborations with prominent brands such as Aram, SCP, and Cappellini. Beyond his work with Maruni, Morrison's recent projects demonstrate his diverse design interests. He serves as an art director for Swiss electronics company Punkt and has designed sandals for Camper, furniture for Vitra, and a prefabricated cabin for Muji. His contributions to the design industry have been widely acknowledged, placing him among the most influential figures in the field, as evidenced by his ranking among the top designers on Dezeen Hot List. #JasperMorrison #Maruni #FurnitureDesign #WoodAndSteel #SaloneDelMobile #BritishDesign #IndustrialDesign #SuperNormalAesthetic #MilanDesignWeek

Interior designer Luna Grey transformed a 600-square-foot one-bedroom rental in a prewar Brooklyn building for a young couple, creating a romantic and bohemian aesthetic. The clients, who were about to get married, expressed a desire for a space reminiscent of an Anthropologie catalog, which Grey interpreted as a call for romantic and bohemian decor. The project involved furnishing and styling the entire apartment, with an approximate budget of $18,000, covering all furniture, lighting, rugs, window treatments, art, and accessories. The entire process, from initial consultation to completion, took about three months. The designer utilized online shopping extensively, with virtually all new items procured from various e-commerce platforms. The couple's only existing pieces were a tall wooden dresser and a gilded mirror, both incorporated into the bedroom design. For the living/dining area, an extra-deep Maxwell sofa from Interior Define serves as the focal point, complemented by nested coffee tables from Willa Arlo Interiors (sourced via Wayfair and AllModern). A colorful Moroccan rag rug, discovered on Etsy, adds warmth and texture to the space. Lighting includes a flush mount ceiling fixture from Rejuvenation and a Miles Tripod floor lamp from Pottery Barn. A significant element of the living room is a thoughtfully curated gallery wall, featuring art acquired from online retailers such as One Kings Lane and Artfully Walls. Decorative pillows from Etsy and Anthropologie further enhance the bohemian feel. Window treatments consist of layered bamboo shades and sheer linen curtains, hung floor to ceiling to create an illusion of height and softness. The dining area features a table from West Elm and Madeleine chairs from Restoration Hardware. A metal and glass bar cart from Hayneedle and shelves from Ballard Designs complete this section of the apartment. The bedroom continues the layered and textured theme. An intricately carved Maharaja headboard from Home Decorators (available through Home Depot) creates a statement. A white dressing table and a wide dresser from Restoration Hardware's Baby and Child department were chosen to complement the serene atmosphere. The Fela Tassel chandelier, designed by Justina Blakeney and available from Anthropologie and other online sources, adds a distinctive touch. Other bedroom furnishings, including table lamps, a nightstand, and a bed platform, were sourced from Pottery Barn and West Elm, along with a Moroccan rug. Throughout the apartment, the strategic use of layered textiles, diverse materials, and a blend of online sources allowed for the creation of a cohesive and personalized bohemian living space. #InteriorDesign #BohemianDecor #BrooklynHeights #RentalApartment #OnlineShopping #GalleryWall #TextileLayering #LunaGrey #HomeRenovation

RH, a prominent home furnishings retailer, has launched RH Contemporary, a new business branch that significantly expands its product offerings through collaborations with a diverse array of global designers. This initiative marks RH's most substantial concept launch since RH Modern in 2015, reinforcing the company's ambitious growth trajectory. The new collection encompasses a wide range of items, from large furniture pieces such as sofas, beds, wardrobes, and outdoor furniture, to lighting, textiles, and decorative objects. The launch of RH Contemporary follows other significant developments for the company, including the unveiling of RH San Francisco, the acquisition of private planes and a yacht for charter, and plans for future locations in Manhattan, Oxfordshire, Paris, London, Milan, and an 'RH Ecosystem' in Aspen featuring the company's first spa. The development of RH Contemporary began prior to the pandemic, with RH leadership strategically using that period to focus on long-term growth initiatives rather than short-term revenue pursuit. A key aspect of RH Contemporary is its multi-tiered approach to elevating production standards and materials. This includes a partnership with Holland & Sherry, an established Savile Row tailor, to supply a comprehensive range of fine textiles for upholstery and curtains. Additionally, the collection features high-caliber Indian hand-loomed throws and pillow covers by textile artist Neeru Kumar, whose work has been acquired by the Victoria & Albert Museum. A significant portion of RH Contemporary's upholstered furniture, including modular leather seating and low linear sofas, is crafted in Italy. To achieve this, RH collaborated with expert Italian upholsterers, ALT in Romagna and Crivellari in Padova, whose founders are prominently credited on the RH website alongside the designers. Italian-sourced materials, such as travertine stone from outside Rome and Arabescato marble, are also widely used, although some fabrication occurs elsewhere. The emphasis on top-tier materials and production, including lacquered burl wood, hand-carved Spanish alabaster, and hand-applied plaster on lighting, is reflected in the collection's higher price points, with items like Jonathan Browning’s ‘Vouvray’ chandelier starting at over $35,000 and Joris Poggioli’s ‘Vitolo’ dining table starting at over $12,000. Gary Friedman, RH chairman & chief executive officer, notes that RH Contemporary items are priced approximately 30 to 35 percent higher than the current RH offerings. While large-scale furniture forms the core of the collection, smaller shoppable items are also included, such as vases and decorative dishes by Brooklyn-based ceramicist Dina Nur Satti, which incorporate her Sudanese and Somali heritage. Friedman expresses strong belief in RH Contemporary's potential impact, stating that it will likely have a greater influence on the company than RH Modern, not only from a design perspective but also in terms of quality. He anticipates that this new venture will redefine consumer perceptions of RH and expand its market aperture significantly. #RHContemporary #DesignerCollaborations #LuxuryFurniture #InteriorDesign #HighEndMaterials #ItalianCraftsmanship #GlobalDesigners #HomeFurnishings