Arnout Meijer lights up Victor Hunt Designart Dealer with illuminating collection

Dana Harel, a San Francisco-based Israeli designer, has launched her inaugural lighting collection under her studio, White Dirt. Harel's career trajectory showcases a diverse artistic exploration, starting with architecture and extending into ceramics and line art before her current venture into luminaires. The new collection, dubbed "Ora," comprises three tented table lamps—Ora I, II, and III—and a suspended, trapeze-like floor lamp, Ora IV. These pieces draw inspiration from Harel’s existing body of work, particularly her vases and vessels, which inform their hand-carved sculptural aesthetic. The lamps are crafted using a combination of gypsum cement, muslin, and brass, materials that contribute to their unique visual and tactile qualities. The design intentionally evokes the imagery of draped wedding gowns, suggesting moments of concealed intimacy and exploring the delicate balance between revealing and hiding forms. This interplay of materials and forms allows the collection to convey a sense of fluidity and softness, a departure from more rigid sculptural traditions. Harel describes the process of working with fabric—folding, pleating, and draping—as a refreshing experience, contrasting with her previous work that often involved tools like chisels and hammers. This shift towards softer, more pliable materials allowed her to experiment with light in a new way, focusing on how textiles interact with illumination to create ambiance and shape. The collection's design ethos embraces a certain spontaneity, reflecting Harel’s approach to her creative process. Each piece in the Ora collection stands as a testament to her evolving artistic language and her ability to translate diverse inspirations into functional art. A notable and unconventional source of inspiration for Harel was a scene from the HBO series *Succession*, where characters Tom Wambsgans and Cousin Greg consume a rare delicacy with napkins tented over their heads. This seemingly obscure reference underscores Harel's willingness to draw from unexpected cultural moments, transforming them into artistic concepts. The designer interprets this act of "masking shame" or "heightening pleasure" as a metaphor for the lamps' ability to create intimate, almost cloistered, environments through their draped forms. The sculptural swagger of the lamps is deeply rooted in these varied influences, bridging architectural precision with textile softness and cultural anecdotes. The collection as a whole is an exploration of form, light, and material, reflecting Harel's multidisciplinary background and her continuous quest for new creative expressions. #DanaHarel #LightingCollection #SculpturalLighting #InteriorDesign #WhiteDirtStudio #ProductDesign #TextileArt #ContemporaryDesign

The High Point Market Fall 2024 showcased numerous new collections and collaborations from prominent designers and brands in the home furnishings industry. This event served as a platform for unveiling innovative designs and product lines across various categories, including furniture, textiles, lighting, and rugs. The market attracted a significant number of design professionals, all seeking to discover the latest trends and offerings. Bernhardt's Designer in Residence showcase, led by Nicole Fuller, presented an installation inspired by the Moroccan desert. This collection featured exotic elements such as pierced brass lanterns, an art deco-style faceted credenza, bullion fringe-trimmed settees, and pillows with beaded "evil eye" accents. The showcase aimed to create an immersive and unique design experience for visitors. Four Hands introduced the second installment of its collaboration with designer Amber Lewis. This launch comprised over 160 artisan-made SKUs, reflecting Lewis's signature coastal-cool aesthetic. Notable items included the shearling-covered Bennett chair, the paper cord-accented Salvador coffee table, and the hammered-bronze Corinne stool, catering to a blend of comfort and style. Tara Shaw's collaboration with Century Furniture drew inspiration from French flea market finds. The collection highlighted antique-driven designs such as the midcentury Italian-style Saint Laurent lounge chair and ottoman, the Rococo-esque Sainte Rome accent table, and the Trocadero desk, which featured ebonized detailing and hand-carved animal paw feet. This partnership aimed to merge historical elegance with contemporary craftsmanship. Thibaut's Anna French room displayed the Camelot collection, characterized by vibrant, jewel-toned fabrics. The collection included chairs upholstered in Linden Velvet, a sofa in moire-esque Regia, and drapes made from flame-stitched Kamut Embroidery, providing a luxurious and colorful aesthetic. Hickory Chair presented new collaborations with Kim Scodro and Suzanne Kasler. Scodro's contributions included soft-hued designs like the pale pink Harrison lounge chair, while Kasler's Bruges collection featured pieces such as the bone-inlaid Luc cocktail table and the tufted, art moderne-style Annabelle sofa, combining traditional and modern influences. Abner Henry's launches featured Sasha Bikoff's second collection, inspired by Memphis Milano, and the sinuous Aero console. These pieces emphasized unique shapes and artistic expressions, attracting attention from industry figures like Thom Filicia. Kravet's collaboration with fashion label Altuzarra at 200 Steele showcased a couture-fueled line. The collection included the ombre, sunset sky-inspired Colorscape mural, the Moth Weave, and the finely feathered Caspia, available as both fabric and wallcovering, reflecting a blend of fashion and home decor. Hubbardton Forge introduced the Snaps collection, an interactive lighting system composed of leather straps, LED modules, and alabaster diffusers. This modular design allowed for various configurations, offering customizable lighting solutions. Interlude Home presented petite versions of its Lucie and Theo sheep and a line of designer-selected chairs upholstered in Kravet fabrics, adding playful yet sophisticated options. Eliko Rugs by David Ariel collaborated with Anne-Marie Barton for a 27-piece collection of artisan-crafted rugs. This collection, which included the ultrashaggy Adorne and geometric Terra Luna styles, blended European design influences with contemporary aesthetics. Universal Furniture's Dwell collection featured architectural designs like a latticework-like bed frame, a cast concrete-shelved bar cart, a multifunctional cocktail table with an attached ottoman, and the Basalt credenza with pine lap-siding. Harbour showcased its new Palm Beach collection at the 313 Space, alongside other outdoor retailers and sustainability-minded brands such as Loose Parts, Nanimarquina, and Soil to Studio. Barbara Barry expanded her line with Baker and McGuire, introducing pieces like the rattan-framed Encircle sofa, the oak veneer-topped Cinch dining table, the plaster Dias Cylinder lamp, and the L-shaped Lao cocktail table made of honed Honey Onyx. Jaipur Living collaborated with House Sprucing on a collection of six artisan-crafted rugs, including the distressed Tesorino and hand-tufted Amata styles, made from 100 percent PET yarn. This collection emphasized European design and sustainable materials. Cordless lights were a notable trend, with introductions from Surya, Visual Comfort, Currey & Company, and Pooky, offering portable and flexible lighting solutions. Verellen celebrated its silver anniversary with a line of colorful upholstered furniture, including the polychromatic Otis club chair, the rainbow-speckled Roger swivel stool, and a bold color-blocked iteration of the modular Diego sectional sofa. Loloi featured Chris Loves Julia’s Scottie collection, a line of hand-tufted rugs with scalloped edges and striped double borders, available in various sizes and colorways. Burton James presented plush designs like the slope-armed Ally swivel chair, the sinuous Grayson sectional sofa, and the tightly upholstered Roy ottoman. Brown Jordan’s bestselling Luca collection, designed by Ann Marie Vering, offered a range of outdoor furniture with gently curved teak frames and weather-safe cushions. American Leather updated its Menlo Park series by Rick Lee, introducing a curvaceous bed and serpentine sofa upholstered in Ultrasuede fabric with channeled backs and welt detailing. Regina Andrew Detroit unveiled new lighting designs, including the mobile-inspired Artemis chandelier, the asymmetrical Happy Outdoor sconce, and the leather-wrapped Denver table lamp. BDI’s Elements collection by Matthew Weatherly provided acoustic-savvy storage solutions with laser-carved wood door fronts and metal mesh panels, designed to conceal audio equipment without compromising sound quality. #HighPointMarket #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign #HomeFurnishings #DesignerCollaborations #FurnitureTrends #LightingDesign #TextileCollections #RugDesign

This article explores how ten jewelry retailers have innovatively transformed blank walls within their stores into engaging and brand-enhancing features. The core idea presented is to view an empty wall not as a void, but as a canvas for creativity and opportunity to enrich the customer experience and reflect the store's unique brand identity. Several broad categories of wall treatments are discussed, including murals, mirrors, and curated displays. Specific examples from various jewelry stores illustrate these concepts. Shaftel Diamonds in Houston utilized a vibrant, gem-filled mural by local artist Anat Ronen on their patio wall, enhancing the outdoor space and aligning with the store's "fun and engaging" vision. King's Fine Jewellery in Alberta, Canada, created a 'natural attraction' with a 22-foot preserved moss and geode art installation, complemented by a 7-foot aquarium, bringing a unique natural aesthetic into the retail environment. Just Desi in Beverly Hills features a dried flower wall that serves as an appealing selfie station, encouraging customer interaction and social media sharing. Adornment + Theory in Chicago dedicated a wall to a library nook, allowing customers to explore jewelry history and adornment, which also incorporates miniature 3D jewelry showcases. Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers in Blue Springs, MO, opted for a casual and welcoming vibe by featuring a simple, fitting message scrawled directly on one of their 4,000 square-foot store's walls. Fiat Lux in San Francisco incorporated colorful wallpaper depicting trees and animals, further enhanced by gold resin drips painted by artist Caroline Lizarraga, a design element that reflects the store's slightly 'punk rock' reputation. Greenwich St. Jewelers in New York City embraced the city's 'gritty' character by having muralist Mason Nye create a custom subway grate stencil pressed into plaster for their back wall, adding an urban edge to an otherwise elegant space. Julez Bryant in Solana Beach, CA, uses a collection of colorful glass bottles, gathered over 30 years, as a distinctive and seasonally adaptable decorative feature. Moonrise Jewelry in Cape Charles, VA, created an interactive back-wall installation that functions as a swatch board for their specialty fish leather, allowing clients to customize colors using magnetic fish that 'swim' across a hand-painted river. Lastly, William Travis Kukovich in Chapel Hill, NC, transformed an entire wall into an impressive display of his awards and press clippings, establishing instant credibility and showcasing his extensive experience and expertise as a bench jeweler and designer. These diverse approaches highlight the versatility of blank walls in retail settings. #JewelryRetail #StoreDesign #InteriorDecor #WallDecor #RetailExperience #VisualMerchandising #CreativeSpaces #CustomerEngagement

This article highlights the new 48-piece lighting collection from Arteriors, a collaboration with architecture and design firm Workshop/APD. This partnership marks a significant first for Arteriors, as it is their initial venture with an external design firm, aiming to infuse a distinctly contemporary aesthetic into their typically more traditional offerings. The collection is designed to serve as the “jewelry of a room,” emphasizing the transformative power of lighting in interior design. A central feature of this collection is the “Glaze” assortment, which draws inspiration from the ceramic artistry of Workshop/APD principal Andrew Kotchen’s wife. Each piece within this line incorporates a handmade ceramic shade or backplate, notable for its delicate crackled ivory glaze. This ceramic component is thoughtfully contrasted with blackened steel elements, creating a sophisticated and modern look. The versatility of these fixtures is a key selling point, as they are suitable for various settings, whether installed individually as a focal point or in multiples to create a cohesive design statement. The article showcases several specific pieces from the Glaze collection, providing descriptions and potential applications. The Glaze Large Sconce, priced at $715, is praised for its sleek shape and subtle hue, making it an ideal choice for bathrooms or bedside areas due to its effortless integration into diverse decors. The Glaze Linear Pendant, available for $1,040, is highlighted for its ability to stand out as a singular piece while also creating a striking impact when hung in a series. This suggests its adaptability for different spatial requirements and design ambitions. Another featured item is the Glaze Large Flushmount, costing $965, which distinguishes itself with a trio of frosted opal glass globes that add visual intrigue to a classic bowl-shaped flush-mount design. For larger spaces, the Glaze Floor Lamp, priced at $1,395, is presented as an ultramodern silhouette that casts a warm, inviting glow, enhancing the ambiance of its surroundings. Finally, the Glaze Sculptural Sconce, at $1,365, is noted for its geometric form and rotating armature, offering the unique capability to create a personalized focal point on any wall. This adjustability allows users to customize the lighting effect and direct light as needed. Overall, the collaboration between Arteriors and Workshop/APD introduces a collection that blends artistic inspiration with functional design, providing contemporary lighting solutions that can refresh and brighten any home interior. The pieces emphasize unique craftsmanship through ceramic details and modern silhouettes, offering versatile options for various design preferences and spatial requirements. #Arteriors #WorkshopAPD #LightingDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryLighting #CeramicLighting #DesignCollaboration

The thrill of discovering unique furnishings and the regret of missing out on a coveted piece are common experiences for interior designers, as recounted by nine professionals in the field. These designers share their personal anecdotes of both significant acquisitions and elusive 'holy grail' items, offering insight into the passion and pursuit involved in curating exceptional interiors. Will Meyer, a devotee of Danish design, recently acquired a Hans Wegner daybed but continues his quest for the perfect Papa Bear chair, an iconic piece he believes will eternally remain stylish. Amy Lau's 'big find' was a set of sculptural Dommus chairs by Joseph Walsh, which she commissioned for her New York apartment after a studio visit in Ireland, impressed by their handcrafted and expressive design. Pierre Yovanovitch expresses a long-standing desire for a rare and expensive Uno Ahren masterpiece, specifically his 1927 inlaid Mahogany Secretaire, admired for its flawless execution and unique Garden of Eden imagery. Nate Berkus laments multiple missed opportunities to purchase a Picasso ceramic owl. He first encountered one while working at an auction house in Chicago, unable to afford it then, and later saw others in Paris and on 1stdibs, observing its increasing value with each sighting. Miles Redd's most significant discovery is a mirrored bathroom by David Adler, found in a Chicago salvage warehouse. This unique piece, which he uses as both a bathroom and a dining room, holds special value due to its singular nature and the emotional connection it provides, making him feel as though he is 'inside of a diamond' every morning. Alexandra Champalimaud recalls admiring the Mattia Bonetti Rock dining table at a design fair, describing it as extraordinary and full of personality, but ultimately passed on it due to not having a suitable space. Martyn Lawrence Bullard shares an auction disappointment involving a Jacques Adnet Hermès Saddle leather daybed. Despite thorough research and a set budget, he missed the piece by two bids, regretting his hesitation and emphasizing the importance of passionate pursuit in auctions, as he has been unable to find a similar item since. Robert Couturier maintains a detached perspective on objects, viewing himself as a temporary owner and valuing history over intrinsic monetary worth. However, he holds a particular affection for a painting by Jean Baptiste Greuze depicting an angel. This piece, inherited from his great-grandfather and a constant presence in his grandmother's home, evokes profound memories of his upbringing and the love of his grandmother, offering a sense of 'bonheur' and timelessness. Michael Smith expresses his admiration for the Lovö chair, designed by Axel Einar Hjorth in 1932. He had bid on this dynamic and remarkably modern piece at auction but was unsuccessful, wishing he could have incorporated it into one of his classic yet modern projects. #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #Designers #LuxuryInteriors #ArtAndCollectibles #DesignStories #Acquisitions #LostOpportunities

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

Alberto Caiola designed a distinctive exhibition booth for Herman Miller's retailer Van Collection at Design Shanghai 2021, China's premier showcase for international design brands, architects, and interior designers. The booth's design was inspired by Herman Miller’s brand heritage, incorporating a quote from Gilbert Rhode, the firm’s first design director, which states: 'The most important thing in the room is not the furniture – it’s the people.' This quote was prominently displayed on the back wall and served as a central theme for the exhibition. Caiola's design reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered perceptions and functions of the home, leading to new demands for flexible living spaces. The booth ingeniously uses perspective and light to present Herman Miller's furniture as practical solutions for these evolving needs. A notable feature of the design is its unconventional lighting approach. Breaking from traditional exhibition lighting, which typically spotlights products from above, Caiola opted to illuminate the displayed furniture entirely from below using illuminated floor tiles. This technique not only visually reinforced the theme of seeing the home in a 'different light' but also subtly emphasized the central quote by drawing attention to the people interacting with the space rather than just the furniture itself. The underfoot lighting created a unique, almost ethereal atmosphere, providing visitors with an extraordinary sensory experience. An intriguing consequence of the bottom-up lighting was the absence of shadows cast by visitors as they moved through the exhibit. This cinematic and somewhat surreal effect was intended to allude to the disorienting experience of the pandemic, where the passage of time and daily routines blurred, similar to how the absence of shadows can obscure temporal cues. The design aimed to evoke the listlessness and urgency that many experienced during periods of lockdown. The booth was structured into four distinct areas, or 'rooms,' delineated by gridded partitions. These areas were configured to represent various domestic settings: a living area, a gaming space, a home office, and a dining room. The intended function of each space was communicated through a carefully selected arrangement of freestanding furniture. The gridded walls served a dual purpose, simultaneously opening up and obscuring the booth's layout. The depth of these partitions meant that visitors' views into adjacent rooms varied depending on their position and angle of observation. Similarly, the central quote on the booth’s backdrop, positioned behind one of these fiber-reinforced paneled walls, was only fully visible from specific perspectives. This design element subtly referenced a common experience during the pandemic: the fragmented glimpses into others' work-life spaces shared through video calls and the new hybrid work-from-home conditions. The entire setup, comprising freestanding pieces within a fully modular system, was intentionally designed for reusability. Both the illuminated floor tiles and the partition walls can be reconfigured to adapt to different dimensions required for future furniture fairs, underscoring a commitment to flexibility and sustainability in exhibition design. #HermanMiller #AlbertoCaiola #DesignShanghai #ExhibitionDesign #IlluminatedTiles #GriddedPanels #FlexibleLiving #PostPandemicDesign #ModularDesign

This monthly series, "In Our Carts," highlights a curated selection of new product launches and collaborations in the home and lifestyle sphere. The June 2024 edition features a range of items, from bedding and rugs to furniture, lighting, and kitchenware, all chosen for their design and functionality. One of the notable collaborations is between Danish home brand Tekla and Artek, which resulted in a new line of bedding. This collection includes duvets and shams in three colors, adorned with Finnish architect Aino Aalto’s Kirsikankukka pattern, inspired by a Japanese scarf. The collaboration also marks Tekla's first venture into kids' bedding. Cold Picnic, known for its printed rugs, has expanded its offerings with a new collection of richly hued, solid-color rugs. These nature-inspired designs, such as Grass Green, Roasted Tomato, Sky Blue, and Pear, are crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, providing a luxurious feel underfoot. Dusen Dusen has introduced three new vibrant and graphic throw pillow designs: Daisy, Hourglass, and Ricrac. These pillows come in bold colors like sunflower yellow, denim blue, and Kelly green, adding a playful touch to home decor. CB2 has launched new alabaster sconces designed by Australian studio VUUE. These hand-carved alabaster globes are available in two sizes, 6 and 10 inches, and offer a blend of old-world glamour with a modern sensibility, suitable for various interior and exterior settings. Fashion designer Carly Cushnie has collaborated with Lulu and Georgia on her first furniture collection. This 11-piece line showcases a mix of materials, including cane, wood, bouclé, fringe, and velvet. Standout pieces include the warm-toned Yucca sofa and the burl-wood Sabal console table, offering extensive mix-and-match possibilities. Opinel has released a cleverly designed grilling set that emphasizes simplicity and utility. The stainless steel tongs are extra-long with notched tips and a curved edge for effective gripping. A unique feature is the folding knife that ingeniously transforms into a spatula handle, complete with a Virobloc locking ring. The knife handle also integrates a bottle opener, enhancing its functionality for outdoor cooking. R+D Lab has partnered with Mexican chef Elena Reygadas and Fenn Apartamento to create the Rosetta collection of glassware. This collection features three new glass shapes—Acqua, Sour, and Martini—inspired by ancient vessels discovered in Pompeii. While named for specific drinks, these versatile glasses are suggested for various beverages, such as white wine in the water cups and cordials in the stemmed glasses. Finally, Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen continues to expand his collection with Zara Home. The latest additions emphasize natural materials like wood, concrete, and solid brass, featuring pieces such as a daybed, a library system, and organically shaped concrete side tables. Dark brown is a prominent color throughout this new iteration of the collection, reflecting a sophisticated aesthetic. Baggu has also collaborated with Collina Strada on a line of limited-edition prints for its reusable bags, picnic blankets, and towels. A new highlight from this collaboration is the Horse Bag, a mini zippered pony-shaped bag, and the Boxer Plaid print on the Small Cloud carry-on, combining playful design with practical application. #ProductLaunches #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #Furniture #Lighting #Kitchenware #DesignCollaborations #NewArrivals

This article highlights 19 distinct and eye-catching design pieces showcased at the High Point Market, offering a curated selection of furniture, lighting, and decorative accessories that can elevate any interior design project. The featured items encompass a range of styles, from contemporary and playful to classic and artisan-crafted, demonstrating the diverse offerings available to design professionals. Each piece is presented with its manufacturer, name, and a brief description of its unique characteristics and design inspiration. The selection begins with Universal Furniture's 'Strata bench,' characterized by its chunky, upholstered channels that create a cloud-like aesthetic. Vertuu Design's 'Andorra coffee table' follows, noted for its smooth top contrasting with a ribbed base, offering a subtle textural interplay. Wildwood introduces the 'Laguna vase,' an artisan-made Italian piece with a shimmery iridescent finish achieved through a reactive glaze, adding an artistic touch to any space. Arteriors presents the 'Melt sconce,' a collaboration with Workshop/APD, featuring overlapping drops of textured smoke glass that create a fluid and sculptural lighting effect. For seating, Taylor King showcases a sinuous iteration of their 'Hayworth swivel chair,' upholstered in a shapely Collage fabric by Susan Hable for Valdese Weavers, providing both comfort and visual interest with its curved lines. Visual Comfort's 'Bellamy two-light chandelier' by Marie Flanigan is highlighted as a statement lighting fixture designed to command attention. Accent Decor offers the 'Meander bud vase,' a whimsical, squiggly-armed vase perfect for creating an Instagram-worthy display. Co.House Designs presents the 'Lenny swivel chair' by Button Atelier, an homage to old-world European design, featuring faux mohair upholstery and a fanciful fringe trim. Practical yet stylish options include Worlds Away's 'Collins LB game table,' which combines inset grasscloth with sky-blue edging and discreet pullout drawers for storage. Intertwined: Handmade for Good features a 'framed handwoven Mayan textile,' a fragment of a vintage huipil from the Guatemalan highlands, serving as a conversation-starting art piece. Decorative Crafts' 'Argento coffee table' is characterized by its hand-finished antiqued silver leaf and a dazzling diamond-patterned frame. Barrett Bergmann Home's 'Shangri-La vanity' exemplifies understated elegance with its storage-savvy design. Curved forms are further explored with Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams’s 'Regatta sofa,' which transforms curved lines into an art form, and American Leather's 'Pira chair,' a tribute to Brazilian modernism with its gently rounded silhouette. Surya introduces the 'Herat rug,' a hand-knotted pure wool piece with a gradient hue designed to add warmth. Madheke’s 'Fanza' side table is a sculptural brass cast item with wabi-sabi appeal, featuring an asymmetrical base and a brushed finish. Taamaa’s 'Bau table' offers a modern interpretation of 1920s Bauhaus designs with its orb accents. Finally, Piegatto’s 'Palm coffee tables' are presented as highly configurable options, while Adriana Hoyos’s 'Origen daybed,' upholstered in quilted leather, is highlighted as an inviting piece for relaxation. #HighPointMarket #InteriorDesign #HomeFurnishings #StatementPieces #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #HomeDecor #ArtisanCrafted #DesignTrends

Selfridges' new restaurant, Brasserie of Light, offers a unique dining experience, prominently featuring a 24-ft-tall crystal-encrusted sculpture of Pegasus by Damien Hirst. This magnificent artwork, with its colossal 30-ft wingspan, soars above the dining hall, establishing the restaurant as Selfridges’ first after-hours dining destination in London. The Brasserie of Light lives up to its name through its design, which heavily incorporates luminous elements and reflective surfaces. Martin Brudnizki spearheaded the interior design, skillfully manipulating light and space to create a dazzling effect. The Art Deco-inspired space is enhanced by the strategic placement of mirrors, which amplify the volume and add to the overall spectacle. The double-height dining hall is invigorated with vibrant electric blue banquettes and mustard dining chairs, introducing a bold splash of color to the opulent setting. A substantial central bar serves as a focal point, anchoring the expansive space and contributing to the sophisticated ambiance. The culinary offerings at Brasserie of Light are overseen by chef Emanuel Machado. The menu presents a selection of refined dishes, including hand-dived scallops served with red peppers, spaghettini accompanied by lobster, and a signature dessert named Pegasus pie, featuring a yuzu coconut cloud. The restaurant is situated within Selfridges, accessible via the Duke Street Entrance at 400 Oxford St, London W1A 1AB. The article also features various dishes available at the Brasserie of Light, illustrating the presentation and variety of the menu. These include dark chocolate mousse with hazelnut praline ice cream, milk foam, honeycomb, and popping candy; shaved roots, fennel, cashew, clementine, and romaine lettuce salad; Valrhona Guanaja dark chocolate mousse with chocolate brownie, ice cream, and chocolate pearls; and Alaskan snow crab salad with watermelon, radish, and lobster dressing. The Brasserie of Light merges high-end art with sophisticated dining, offering an immersive experience that extends beyond mere culinary satisfaction. The collaboration between Damien Hirst's iconic sculpture and Martin Brudnizki's luminous interior design creates a destination that is both visually stunning and gastronomically appealing. The restaurant aims to provide a luxurious and memorable experience for its patrons, combining artistic grandeur with exquisite cuisine in a vibrant setting. #RestaurantDesign #InteriorDesign #DamienHirst #ArtInstallation #LuxuryDining #LondonRestaurants #Selfridges #ArtDeco

Cuff Studio, based in Los Angeles, has unveiled its Common Ground collection of furniture and lighting as part of the Virtual Design Festival (VDF) x Sight Unseen collaboration. This collection is featured in Offsite Online, a virtual exhibition curated by Sight Unseen, a digital magazine focused on contemporary design. The Common Ground series includes two tables, a bench, an armchair, and a light, all designed to showcase the studio's distinctive design philosophy that merges angular, architectural forms with playful, feminine elements. The studio's co-founder, Kristi Bender, explains that Cuff Studio consistently integrates curves and edges, formality with casualness, and femininity with a sense of 'testosterone' into their designs. This approach is evident in the Arc bench, chair, and console table, which incorporate the classic architectural arch. For the seating designs, this typically masculine architectural element is softened by luxurious leather or pink velvet upholstery. The Arc console table, while possessing a solid volume, features brass-filled channels that allow light to pass through and hand-chiselled grooves on its exterior, providing an organic counterpoint to its geometric shape. Another piece, the Paddle table, modernizes a traditional material, solid oak. The oak is bleached to achieve a clean white tone, and its thick edges are rounded, giving it a playful, substantial silhouette. The Five Track Surface Light, conversely, utilizes a flexible material—rope—which is meticulously wrapped around a rigid, tubular frame. This light fixture can be installed on walls or ceilings and is available in natural white cotton, as well as a variety of other colors. Wendy Schwartz, the other half of Cuff Studio, emphasizes that the collection aims to demonstrate how contrasting design elements can coexist harmoniously, reflecting a broader message of unity. The studio believes that the creative process can bring people together, particularly in a world marked by political polarization. The Common Ground collection was initially launched in early 2020 at the duo's new studio in Hollywood. This launch was intended not just for press or buyers but as a celebration with fellow makers and artisans, fostering in-person connections within the design community in Los Angeles. This initial gathering highlighted the value of direct interaction and shared passion among creatives. #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #CuffStudio #VirtualDesignFestival #SightUnseen #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryDesign #ProductLaunch #DesignPhilosophy

The article highlights Heather Chontos's collaboration with Layered, focusing on a new rug collection that translates her abstract paintings into hand-tufted rugs. The collection aims to capture the depth, color, and shape of Chontos's artwork, making her vibrant and expressive pieces accessible as functional home decor. These rugs are presented as a unique way to bring art into interior spaces, offering both visual appeal and tactile quality through their hand-tufted construction. Following this, the article introduces Clé's refreshed Architect's Palette tile collection. Clé has updated this classic collection by introducing a silkier matte glaze and expanding the available color palette. This refresh aims to provide designers and homeowners with more sophisticated and versatile options for tiling projects, emphasizing an earthy touch that enhances the collection's aesthetic and functional appeal for various architectural and interior applications. The ORA Lamp Series by Dana Harel, from White Dirt Studio, is also featured, showcasing sculptural lighting crafted from gypsum cement, muslin, and brass. These lamps are noted for their unique forms and the way they play with light and shadow, adding an artistic element to any room. The design combines diverse materials to create visually compelling and structurally interesting lighting fixtures. Fireclay Tile's new customizable bath fittings collection marks the company's expansion beyond surface materials. This new venture allows for personalized bath designs, giving customers more control over the aesthetics of their bathrooms. The collection emphasizes customization, enabling a cohesive and unique look when paired with Fireclay's extensive tile offerings. Molteni&C's Milan showroom and its top products are explored, conceived as the home of an astute collector. The showroom acts as a curated space displaying a range of high-end furniture and decor that reflects a sophisticated and eclectic taste. This segment offers a glimpse into the brand's design philosophy and product highlights. Visionnaire's new Italian-luxe showroom in London's Design District is also presented, inviting readers to explore its opulent offerings. The showroom is designed to exhibit Visionnaire's luxurious furniture and home accessories, providing a destination for high-end interior design inspiration and purchases. Lawson-Fenning's NoHo shop in New York, designed by Josh Grene, is highlighted for its glowing terra-cotta hues. The shop's design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, showcasing the brand's furniture and decor in a distinctive setting that emphasizes natural tones and materials. Ege and Snøhetta's collaboration on a carpet collection, Matter, is introduced, which reimagines flooring with generative flatweaves. This partnership combines innovative design with functional materiality, offering floor coverings that are both aesthetically engaging and practical for various commercial and residential applications. Finally, the article mentions several other product highlights, including an array of seating designs for a fall refresh, Carole Baijing’s understated furniture collection for Geiger, Slalom’s sustainable acoustic panels made with FSC-certified wood and recycled materials, Rop van Mierlo’s bold and shaggy rug series for CC-Tapis, Hem and Kusheda Mensah’s playful ottoman collaboration, Jiang Qiong Er’s poetic bamboo collection for Roche Bobois, Kevin Walz’s colorful collaboration with Ralph Pucci, Kriskadecor and Rafa Ortega’s nature-inspired Khronos collection with acoustic properties, and Jill Malek’s pastel glass mural panels inspired by natural phenomena. #InteriorDesign #ProductLaunch #HomeDecor #TileDesign #LightingDesign #FurnitureCollection #Showroom #TextileArt #AcousticPanels

This article provides an overview of the "Hanging Around" exhibit, a permanent collection of modern and contemporary lighting at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, as observed during a visit on a Sunday. The exhibit features several notable works by prominent designers, with a particular focus on the innovative creations of German designer Ingo Maurer. The collection showcases a variety of lighting designs, from functional pieces to artistic installations, highlighting the evolution and creativity within contemporary lighting. Among the highlights from the exhibition is the Lüster Chandelier, a two-dimensional LED chandelier designed by Ingo Maurer. This piece exemplifies a playful and unconventional approach to traditional chandelier design, utilizing modern LED technology to create a flat, illuminated form that reinterprets a classic lighting fixture. Its innovative use of light and form makes it a standout piece in the collection. Another significant work by Ingo Maurer featured in the exhibit is the 2003 lamp titled “Wo bist du, Edison?” (meaning “Where Are You, Edison?”). This hanging pendant lamp incorporates a 360-degree holographic image of a light bulb projected onto a transparent cylindrical shade. The actual light source, a halogen light, is concealed above the shade, positioned within a socket shaped to resemble Thomas Edison’s profile. This design ingeniously combines historical reference with advanced holographic technology to create a visually striking and thought-provoking lighting experience, albeit challenging to capture accurately in photographs. The Tears of The Fisherman light sculpture, also by Ingo Maurer, is another favored piece. This sculpture was conceived after Maurer's trip to Venice, where he was inspired by the way sunlight interacted with water droplets suspended from fishermen’s nets. The artwork translates this natural phenomenon into an artistic light installation, embodying fluidity and reflection through its design. This piece further underscores Maurer's ability to draw inspiration from everyday observations and transform them into unique and captivating lighting. Beyond Ingo Maurer's contributions, the exhibit includes works from other renowned designers such as Ross Lovegrove, George Nelson, Marcel Wanders, Rody Graumans, and Poul Henningsen, indicating a diverse representation of influential figures in modern lighting design. These designers collectively showcase a broad spectrum of styles and innovations in contemporary lighting, from functional lamps to sculptural forms. The article also mentions an untitled light sculpture from 1992 by Felix Gonzalez-Torres, encountered during the visitor's departure. This particular piece is described as a "waterfall of endless light bulbs," where each bulb appears to power the next. This installation creates a sense of continuous light and energy, suggesting themes of interconnectedness and infinity through its simple yet profound arrangement of light sources. The inclusion of this work emphasizes the artistic and conceptual dimensions of light within the museum's collection. #ArtExhibition #LightingDesign #ContemporaryArt #IngoMaurer #MuseumVisit #DesignInnovation #PhiladelphiaMuseumOfArt #ModernLighting #FelixGonzalezTorres

This article highlights recent notable design openings and exhibitions, showcasing a variety of styles and inspirations. One featured location is Leonessa, a new rooftop bar on the 16th floor of the Conrad New York Downtown. Designed by Islyn Studio, Leonessa draws heavily from the Italian Amalfi Coast, incorporating potted citrus trees, geometric patterns, and a color palette of sea-green, rose, and ocher. The design aims to evoke the feeling of a private seaside garden, with specific attention paid to selecting wind, rain, freeze, and thaw-proof furniture that maintains an alfresco coastal ambiance. The bar features retro prints, including works by Pietro Fornasetti and custom Dedar cushions. Another significant opening is Paloma Wool's first permanent store in Soho, located on Broome Street. After eight years of temporary pop-ups, the Spanish brand now has a dedicated space designed by artist Max Milà Serra in collaboration with designer-welder Mark Malecki. The store features sculptural clothing racks made from raw stainless steel and sanded acrylic sheets, which serve as both installations and functional fixtures. Welded steel and natural wood furnishings, including minimalist wood platforms with plexiglass boxes and suspended metal shelves, display accessories and clothing. The two large sculptural steel fixtures with translucent acrylic sheets, along with the curved, untreated timber shell of the changing rooms, create a distinctive and enveloping atmosphere. Tiny, modular, aerospace-inspired lights by Serra illuminate the 3,000-square-foot space without overpowering it. The article also covers the joint store of jewelry designer Caitlin Mociun and her husband, furniture and lighting designer Tammer Hijazi, founders of Bower Studios. Their new retail space on Driggs Avenue, which previously housed Mociun's solo store for eight years, now combines both brands. The redesign moved away from an all-white aesthetic, incorporating desaturated gem tones, varied textures, and a vintage Italian sensibility. Features include chocolate carpeting, green walls, ribbed-glass bricks, walnut wood furniture, and Maharam textile chairs. Custom details, such as an encased wood-and-metal bookshelf, replicate motifs from Bower Studios' new collection. A glass-brick wall extends through the space, creating distinct areas for client consultations and waiting. An olive-green wall houses a beveled-glass walnut case showcasing Mociun's jewelry. Furthermore, the "Gathered" exhibition in a Chinatown apartment is discussed. This show, a collaboration between the online platform Erria and Lyle Gallery, features objects from 32 artists and designers exploring the theme of 'home.' Notable pieces include Jihyun Kim's squishy ceramic inspired by a Korean grandmother's salt jar, Kritika Manchanda's holographic organza dinner napkin crafted from flattened bloomers, and Didi NG Wing Yin's wood vase with a pleated texture resembling an Issey Miyake top. Sophie Collé contributes a Memphis-inspired dollhouse-clock. Finally, the "Jewel Box" exhibition at Allen Street Gallery, the storefront space of Leroy Street Studio, is highlighted. This exhibition focuses on wall sconces as works of art, featuring a diverse range of materials and techniques from both established and emerging artists. Exhibitors include French stainless-steel pioneer Maria Pergay, material experimenters Chen Chen and Kai Williams, and emerging talent like Elana Shvalbe. Specific pieces mentioned are Katie Stout’s gold-glazed porcelain ceramic tusk, Lebanese architect Zein Daouk’s ceramic sconce inspired by a shiitake mushroom, and Max Ingrand’s oblong-shaped frosted glass lights from 1956, resembling jewels clasped in brass hardware. #DesignEdit #StoreDesign #InteriorDesign #AmalfiCoast #PalomaWool #BowerStudios #LyleGallery #AllenStreetGallery #Exhibition #LightingDesign

The importance of a well-conceived lighting plan in home design is often underestimated, frequently being an afterthought rather than an integral part of the initial concept. Good lighting significantly contributes to an inhabitant's well-being, optimizes functionality, and elevates the overall aesthetic of a room, transforming an ordinary space into something remarkable through strategic fixture selection and placement. This principle was vividly demonstrated at the recent WOW!house design exhibit held at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour in London, England. The exhibition featured 22 unique rooms, each crafted by leading interior designers, where lighting often took center stage. The WOW!house exhibition, open to the public for a month in June to support the United in Design charity, was not a traditional house but an innovative installation. It comprised a series of exterior and interior spaces within the atrium of the Design Centre. These spaces were diverse, ranging from entries, kitchens, dens, bars, and dining areas to libraries, bathrooms, bedrooms, and outdoor courtyards, all brimming with originality and creative design solutions. Across most of these spectacular settings, lighting played a prominent role in defining the ambiance and functionality. One of the most striking examples was the grand entry of the installation, which featured an dramatic leaf chandelier by Cox London. Victoria Davar, founder of Maison Artefact, specifically requested a five-meter ceiling height to ensure the fixture was not only accommodated but also given pride of place, asserting its visual dominance upon entry. Davar emphasized that this height aligns with classical design principles. Her design philosophy for the entry embraced a blend of classical and modern elements, where the chandelier was framed against a traditional-surround fireplace. This approach allowed each element to balance the other, creating a dialogue between the old and the new. Davar intentionally utilized negative space, leaving the wall above the fireplace blank, to allow the chandelier to stand out as a sculptural piece without visual interruption, fostering a sense of airiness. Another innovative approach was seen in the courtyard room designed by Emma Sims-Hilditch. This multi-functional space, envisioned to support various aspects of country living such as a boot room, dog wash station, and gardening area, integrated classical elements of heritage country homes with modern touches. Sims-Hilditch positioned an oversized Charles Edwards lantern as a focal point above an island, drawing inspiration from classical English country house lanterns. The lantern received a contemporary update through its coloration, painted in Farrow & Ball's Lulworth Blue. Wall lights, inspired by carriage lanterns, and pendant lights with fabric shades in corner spaces were strategically placed to layer the lighting, ensuring both functionality and comfort. Sims-Hilditch underscored the importance of soft lighting and avoiding bare bulbs, opting for a layered system that included John Cullen Lighting for downlights and Soane Britain for wall lights. The bathroom designed by 1508 London exemplified how lighting can transform a functional space into a luxurious retreat. The design studio incorporated an advanced lighting system by John Cullen Lighting and Lutron, offering three distinct illumination programs: Ritual, Revitalizing, and Revery. Paris Albert, an associate at 1508 London, explained that “Ritual” supports daily cleansing routines, “Revitalizing” enhances vanities and showers for rejuvenation, and “Revery” creates a dreamlike state for relaxation. These options, accessible at the touch of a button, elevated the bathroom experience from mere utility to a restorative escape. Interior decorator and antiques dealer Daniel Slowik presented his morning room design, emphasizing subtle, layered lighting rather than bright, centralized fixtures or intrusive task lighting. He advocated for side lights, often converting decorative vases or antique items like Arts & Crafts candlesticks into lamps, to create ambient illumination. Slowik aimed for a subdued, not overlit, atmosphere, focusing on objects that also serve as beautiful design elements. While generally disliking overt task lighting, he integrated a brass floor lamp discreetly next to a reading chair, chosen for its distressed appearance that conveyed a sense of history and permanence. The unifying theme across all these designs is the necessity for lighting to be an intrinsic component of the overall design strategy. A thoughtful approach to illumination enhances comfort and functionality, highlights the aesthetic, and can dramatically transform a room into a unique and spectacular environment. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LightingSolutions #WOWHouse #DesignExhibition #ArchitecturalLighting #DecorativeLighting #SmartLighting

This article highlights 15 emerging talents in product design who are making significant contributions to the industry. These designers and studios showcase innovation across various materials, techniques, and product categories, ranging from home furnishings to decorative objects. Lucie Roy, a member of the Kaléidosco collective in France, specializes in float-glass wall tiles. Her Blue Lands tiles manipulate translucency and opacity with aqueous hues, achieved through multiple enamels and three firing processes, and finished with subtle gold details. Bond Hardware, founded by Dana Hurwitz and Mariah Pershadsingh, originally known for jewelry made from scrap metal, has expanded its offerings to include home furniture. Ben Erickson's Erickson Aesthetics presents the "Halo Drippp," a product that integrates a rainbow spectrum into a fundamental form. Soft Geometry, led by Palaash Chaudhary and Utharaa Zacharias, focuses on shapes and references dessert in their new collection. Asa Pingree, drawing inspiration from his boat-building apprenticeship, explores fiberglass in his Brooklyn workshop, evident in his experimental stool designs. Jude Heslin Di Leo, inspired by feng shui principles, created "Amplifier," a 15-inch-high table crafted from pure quartz crystal, intended to enhance natural energy. Sasha Burchuk, founder of New Age Design Studio, reinterprets the ancient terrazzo technique for cement tiles and candleholders, utilizing ethically sourced precious and semiprecious stones in her "Gemstone Terrazzo" and "Ziv" lines. Marie Schumann, a Swiss designer, creates vibrant tapestries called "Softspace #5" and "Softspace #6." These textiles feature haptic fringing and draped threads, woven from materials like Lurex, Trevira CS, or cotton on an industrial jacquard loom and distributed through OKRO. Henri Judin’s "Liquorice" shelves, available vertically or horizontally, are crafted from black rods of bent and powder-coated steel by Lankapaja metalsmith, evoking the candy they are named after and sold through Young Finnish Design. Felicia Arvid, a former fashion designer, introduces "Addéra," a reconfigurable daybed. Its wool-covered cushions, armrests, backrests, and painted-birch tablet can be rearranged to slot into a tubular-steel base. Emiliana Gonzalez and Jessie Young, founders of Estudio Persona, launched "Flecha," an angled side table made of mahogany-veneered plywood, coinciding with the opening of their Los Angeles showroom. Virginia Valentini and Francesco Breganze of LatoxLato designed "Aracne," a coffee table with a 40-inch-diameter glass top supported by eight legs in light oak or dark walnut, noted for its innovative structure. Brecht Wright Gander of Birnam Wood Studio collaborated with jeweler Suna Bonometti on "Brutiful U&I," a cocktail table inspired by Carlo Scarpa’s Brion Cemetery, made from Valchromat wood-fiber visible through an acrylic top. Kyle Comeaux, founder of Komolab, offers "Walden," a dog bed featuring a walnut or white oak base topped with a removable wool-upholstered cushion and a waterproof liner. Finally, Daria Belyakova designed "Paspartu," an armchair described as an "inhabitable sculpture." It is made from chromed, molded fiberglass with wool upholstery and is supported by a nearly invisible glass stand, available through Palisander Gallery. These designers represent a diverse range of styles, materials, and functional applications within contemporary product design. #ProductDesign #RisingStars #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #TextileDesign #GlassArt #ContemporaryDesign

The article highlights a growing trend among luxury brands to utilize their boutiques as spaces for artistic and design installations, moving beyond mere retail outlets. This phenomenon is exemplified by Delvaux's Brussels flagship, designed as an art gallery, and Loewe's Mayfair store in London, which showcases an eclectic art and design collection. The Row's first European flagship in Mayfair also integrates expertly curated and purchasable design objects, such as pieces by Charlotte Perriand and Corbusier, into its retail environment. Since taking over Jil Sander in 2017, Lucie and Luke Meier have significantly enhanced the brand's artisanal identity through various architectural and artistic collaborations. Notable examples include a Tokyo flagship designed by John Pawson and a living installation at the Milan headquarters in collaboration with artist Linda Tegg during Salone del Mobile 2019. This strategic approach culminated in the announcement that Jil Sander's Via Saint Andrea store in Milan would be exclusively dedicated to temporary installations and exhibitions, thereby complementing the fashion collections housed at its Via Pietro Verri flagship. For the inaugural installation at the Via Saint Andrea store, the Meiers presented large, bulging sculptures crafted from padded down inflation. These sculptures were a direct reference to their ongoing fascination with architectural and buoyant silhouettes, reflecting a deep-seated interest in fabrication. This interest was previously evident in the label's S/S 2020 women’s collection, which featured intricate designs incorporating raffia, paper, beading, and elaborate intarsia techniques. The Meiers explained that these installations offer a platform to showcase items that do not fit into the typical runway or campaign presentations, allowing for a broader expression of their creative vision. Jil Sander's second installation at the Via Saint Andrea space is dedicated to Japanese denim, a material widely recognized for its superior quality and craftsmanship. The installation transforms the space with long curtains of dark denim, illuminated by tubular strip lighting. This dramatic backdrop showcases a new range of unisex denim styles, alongside men’s denim shirts and women’s shirt dresses, emphasizing the versatility and aesthetic potential of the fabric. The Meiers underscored that the Via Saint’Andrea space provides a unique opportunity for experimentation and exploration, suggesting a continuous evolution of thematic installations. The article underscores that these installations are not just about displaying products but about creating an immersive brand experience that physicalizes the artistic and design inspirations behind Jil Sander's work. By transforming retail spaces into cultural venues, brands like Jil Sander are engaging customers on a deeper level, offering more than just merchandise but a glimpse into their creative philosophy and craftsmanship. This approach solidifies the brand's position at the intersection of fashion, art, and design, promising an exciting future for their exploratory installations. #JilSander #JapaneseDenim #MilanFashion #FashionInstallation #LuxuryBrands #ArtAndFashion #LucieAndLukeMeier #TextileInnovation