Raf Simons designs Kvadrat upholstery collection informed by haute couture fabrics

This article serves as a comprehensive guide to 12 prominent fabric brands, specifically curated for individuals looking to incorporate custom upholstery and textiles into their home interiors. The author, an expert in interior design, acknowledges that moving beyond off-the-shelf furnishings to bespoke options can be an overwhelming yet rewarding step in one's interior design journey. The selection presented leans towards modern styles but also includes brands that offer a blend of traditional and contemporary designs, ensuring a wide appeal. The guide begins with Casamance, a Parisian brand known for its romantic and painterly textiles, offering a soft approach to geometric patterns and a diverse range of materials from wools to silks, suitable for curtains, upholstery, and even outdoor furniture. Jane Churchill follows, an interior brand with traditional British roots, featuring structured florals, heritage stripes, and East Asian-inspired patterns that bring sophistication to both classic and modern spaces. Dedar, an Italian fabric brand, is highlighted for its innovative, sleek, and glamorous designs, with a global footprint and a reputation for luxury boucles, tapestry-like linens, and its iconic 'Tiger Mountain' jacquard velvet. GP & J Baker Group, though more traditional with a Royal Warrant, is presented as a brand offering classic quality plains and charmingly creative patterns through collaborations, such as with Kit Kemp, bridging traditional and contemporary design. House of Hackney is identified for its mainstream crossover appeal, known for creative, maximalist patterns in textiles and wallpapers, offering edgy palettes and dramatic florals suitable for clashing or pattern-drenching effects. ILIV, a rapidly growing UK brand, caters to a wide range of styles from luxurious velvets to country-chic, and retro to modern, with all designs created in-house. Liberty, an iconic brand, is celebrated for its intricately detailed patterns rooted in British art and design history, offering romantic florals and Art Deco flourishes in velvets, weaves, and linens for interiors. Kvadrat, a Scandinavian design brand, stands out as a modern choice favored by contemporary interior designers and architects for its clean lines, futuristic aesthetics, and minimalist textures, with separate collections for upholstery and lighter curtain fabrics. MINDTHEGAP, a Transylvanian brand, offers a unique aesthetic with folk-like inspirations and bohemian qualities, featuring intricate patterns that range from whimsical illustrations to historical frescoes. Prestigious Textiles is recommended as a go-to for interior designers seeking mid-range price points without compromising on quality, offering a large selection of in-house designed fabrics and wallpapers with a classic, timeless style. The Romo Group is presented as a collection of diverse fabric brands, each with its distinct identity: Romo for timeless patterns, Zinc Textiles for edgy luxury, Black Edition for contemporary elegance, Kirkby Design for graphic patterns with retro flair, Villa Nova for earthy organic qualities, and Mark Alexander for sophisticated, couture-like textiles. Finally, the Sanderson Group rounds out the list, encompassing Sanderson for traditional country-chic styles, Harlequin for modern and playful designs, Morris & Co for heritage prints, Clarke & Clarke for accessible yet stylish options, Zoffany for rich and opulent textures, and Scion for playful, Scandinavian-inspired graphic prints. Each brand offers a unique approach to textile design, enabling homeowners to curate a personalized mood and tell their home's story through custom fabrics. #FabricBrands #CustomUpholstery #TextileDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BespokeFurnishings #ModernInteriors #TraditionalFabrics #DesignTrends

DLT Interiors designer Debbie Travin undertook a project to "warm up" a recently purchased, expansive six-bedroom Hamptons-style house in Scarsdale for a young family, Ashley and Brian Davis. Having previously lived in Battery Park and furnished apartments with inexpensive items, the couple, now with two young daughters, sought a sophisticated yet family-friendly design that would accommodate their growing family and endure over time. The 6,800 sq. ft. home, while in pristine condition, required a design approach that merged their Manhattan-style aesthetic with practical, durable elements suitable for children. The initial phase of the design focused on the most critical areas, primarily the great room, which encompasses the family room and the eat-in kitchen on the lower level. The Davises desired a space that was both inviting for entertaining and resilient against the wear and tear of family life. Travin addressed this by creating a luxurious, airy color palette and utilizing high-performance, easy-to-clean, and stain-resistant fabrics from reputable brands like Schumacher, Romo Group, and Thibaut for custom upholstery and furniture. The open-plan layout necessitated a cohesive design, prompting Travin to extend the family room's aqua blue accents into the dining area and kitchen through elements like window treatments. The kitchen, already featuring a large island, was enhanced with contemporary Circa Lighting pendants to add a polished touch and anchor the space. A spacious table between the family room and kitchen was designated for everyday family meals, prioritizing functionality over a formal dining room for the present. Moving to the upper level, Travin focused on enhancing architectural details, such as the entryway where a custom Stark Carpet runner was paired with vinyl grasscloth wallpaper on the wainscoting. This choice not only added textural contrast and visual appeal but also offered practical benefits due to the vinyl's durability and ease of cleaning. The master bedroom was conceived as Ashley’s personal sanctuary. Travin incorporated Ashley's preference for lavender, blending it with gray and teal accents to create a glamorous yet warm and relaxing atmosphere. An antique mirrored console and velvet upholstered chairs with a subtle animal print contributed to the luxurious feel, while decorative artwork in antique metal frames provided a transitional aesthetic. This balance between contemporary and traditional elements was a key design principle throughout the home, ensuring it felt neither too cold and modern nor overly heavy and traditional. For the guest room, a soft blue color palette was used, combining high-end and more affordable furnishings. Custom pillows and window treatments elevated the overall aesthetic, complemented by the homeowner's artwork and antique silver lamps. The guest bathroom was also given special attention, featuring paneled walls, chic contemporary sconces, and a custom linen shade, reflecting the Davises' penchant for hosting. The overarching goal of the project was to deliver a versatile home environment where parents, children, and guests could all enjoy themselves without worry, thanks to the extensive use of stain-resistant and high-performance materials. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ScarsdaleHomes #FamilyFriendlyDesign #LuxuryInteriors #HighPerformanceFabrics #ColorPalette #TransitionalStyle #CustomUpholstery

Kvadrat, a renowned textile manufacturer, celebrated its widely recognized fabric, 'Divina,' by inviting 22 international designers to reinterpret the material for a unique exhibition during Milan Design Week. The exhibition showcased a variety of products, ranging from umbrella-like structures to stacked cushions, created by designers such as Max Lamb, Philippe Nigro, Martino Gamper, and Anton Alvarez. Among these installations were the 'Jib' stools designed by Peter Marigold. Marigold's 'Jib' stools are characterized by their individually upholstered components, which can be combined in various configurations. This modular approach allows for the pieces to be arranged as if selecting and comparing fabric swatches. The name 'Jib' is inspired by one of the main sails on a boat, suggesting a sense of adaptability and dynamic arrangement. When assembled, the stool parts are deliberately arranged asymmetrically, creating an impression of one piece 'jumping onto' the next. The design addresses a common challenge associated with 'Divina' wool: its density. Marigold noted that the fabric's bulkiness can result in visible seams that detract from the overall aesthetic if not handled carefully during upholstery. To mitigate this, Marigold aimed for the stool legs to present as solid blocks of color, ensuring that the seam lines did not interfere with the geometric purity of the design. The construction involves cutting a groove into the stool's structure, allowing the dense fabric seams to lie flat and maintain a smooth finish. Beyond individual stools, the modular design of the 'Jib' series enables further adaptation. Longer components can be incorporated to create larger furniture pieces, such as benches, while maintaining the same design language and aesthetic consistency. This flexibility highlights the versatility of Marigold's approach and the potential for 'Divina' fabric to be utilized in diverse applications, demonstrating its aesthetic and functional qualities within contemporary furniture design. The exhibition successfully transformed a single textile into a platform for innovative design exploration, showcasing the fabric's potential through varied and imaginative interpretations. #PeterMarigold #Kvadrat #DivinaFabric #MilanDesignWeek #FurnitureDesign #TextileInnovation #ModularFurniture #UpholsteryDesign

Raf Simons, the acclaimed fashion designer known for his work with Jil Sander and Dior, and recently appointed co–creative director at Prada, has launched his latest textile collection for the Danish textile company Kvadrat. This collaboration, which began in 2014, introduces two new upholstery fabrics, Helia and Silas, drawing inspiration from Persian lamb fur and matte surfaces. These new offerings result in a bouclé fabric and a matte fabric, both characterized by a notably soft and gentle hand. Anna Vilhelmine Ebbesen, Kvadrat's head of design consumer, highlights the textiles' extra softness, which contributes to a more rounded, organic aesthetic, and their comforting tactility. In addition to the new fabrics, Simons has refreshed the color palette of Sunniva, a previously designed textile. The collection's launch also features a unique application of these new materials: Simons has used them to reupholster Roberto Matta’s Malitte Seating System, a modular furniture piece from 1966 that is part of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) collection. This choice serves as a playful contrast to the sophisticated elegance of the new upholstery textiles, reflecting Simons's haute couture background. Ebbesen expresses her admiration for Simons's creative approach, noting his distinctive perspective on textiles and colors, which brings a fresh dimension to furniture and space design. She describes Simons as a brave individual and an attentive listener who values diverse opinions, qualities she deems crucial for successful collaborations. His commitment to questioning established norms and refusing to compromise on detail or quality further underscores his meticulous design philosophy. The development of this collection predated the global impact of COVID-19, and a planned celebratory event for the launch was canceled due to the pandemic. However, the timing of the new collection, with its focus on enveloping and comforting interior fabrics, proved to be particularly relevant as consumers were spending more time at home. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Ebbesen remains optimistic, viewing the crisis as an opportunity for reevaluation and positive change within Kvadrat's operational practices. #RafSimons #Kvadrat #UpholsteryFabrics #TextileDesign #RobertoMatta #MalitteSeatingSystem #FashionDesigner #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign

The article highlights 15 unique UK fabric shops and designers, moving beyond mainstream options to showcase artisan and distinctive fabric designs for home interiors. These selections cater to a wide range of tastes, from traditional country styles to eclectic prints, hand block-printed motifs, and sustainable options, providing inspiration for upholstery, curtains, cushions, and other soft furnishings. The aim is to introduce readers to designers and shops that offer unique aesthetic qualities and ethical production methods that might not be commonly known. St Jude's is featured for its artist-designed fabrics and wallpapers, including works by Mark Hearld, Angie Lewin, and Emily Sutton, making it suitable for those seeking unique prints. Kate Forman is recommended for traditional, vintage-style floral linens, ideal for country living rooms or bedrooms. Molly Mahon specializes in cheerful block prints, encouraging the mixing of various patterns for a vibrant interior. Susie Watson Designs offers a cohesive palette with prints ranging from florals to animal motifs, designed for easy incorporation into daily life with a muted and pastel color scheme. Madder Cutch & Co stands out for its commitment to sustainability, printing linens with natural pigments and plant extract dyes in a garden studio, also offering cushions and fabric accessories. Fanny Shorter reimagines botanical prints with maximalist fabrics for those desiring a unique take on nature-inspired designs. Morris & Co is recognized for its iconic prints, experiencing a revival that suits both traditional and contemporary interior schemes. Cabbages & Roses caters to vintage enthusiasts with understated designs, including faded floral linens and timeless stripes, perfect for period properties. Tori Murphy presents timeless style through stripes and geometric patterns, woven in a traditional Lancashire mill, ensuring durability and enduring appeal. Sam Wilson provides whimsical printed fabrics based on linocut designs, offering an understated way to integrate nature into interiors. Rapture & Wright is noted for its bold, hand-printed fabrics, featuring Moorish-inspired geometrics and the 'Walled Garden' print, ideal for making an impact. Sylvia & Margot specializes in cushions with intricate florals and birds, based on artist Rebecca's hand-carved linocuts. Ian Mankin is highlighted for its extensive collection of stripes and checks in cottons, linens, and wools, all woven in a historic Lancashire mill, offering a wide variety for different preferences. Cloth & Clover offers Scottish-milled linen mixes that evoke a traditional style, suitable for older properties or adding historic charm. Finally, Pippa Blacker Interiors provides elegant, nature-inspired fabrics and wallpapers based on Pippa's sketches and paintings, all made in the UK, with an option for a made-to-measure service for various soft furnishings. Each selection emphasizes distinctiveness, quality, and specific aesthetic appeals to guide consumers in their fabric choices. #FabricShopsUK #HomeInteriors #FabricDesigners #UpholsteryFabrics #CurtainFabrics #CushionFabrics #ArtisanFabrics #SustainableFabrics #VintageStyle

The choice of a sofa is a significant design decision for any home, acting as the focal point of the living room for hosting, relaxation, and entertainment. In 2025, sofa trends are shifting towards more expressive and personalized styles, moving beyond previous furniture trends that offered less individualization. This exploration into 2025 sofa trends highlights fabrics, shapes, and styles that combine comfort with style, drawing insights from interior designers and furniture experts. Key trends for 2025 emphasize durability, support, and aesthetic appeal. Many of these designer-approved trends are expected to have longevity beyond the current year. One prominent trend is the use of rich fabrics with luxurious textures. Materials like velvet, linen, and boucle are popular choices for their ability to add depth and dimension. Velvets, particularly patterned ones in shades such as chocolate, terracotta, or sage, are noted for their luxurious feel. This move reflects a growing desire for tactile interiors and layering of patterns and textures, allowing for greater personal expression. Another significant trend is loose, skirted upholstery, offering a less formal alternative to structured couches. Slip-covered sofas, inspired by aesthetics like the Nancy Meyers look, contribute to a relaxed, lived-in atmosphere. Skirted bases, whether tailored or loose, provide a refined silhouette while also being practical by concealing dust. This style is particularly well-suited for coastal living room designs, balancing subtle and thoughtful details with a soft, layered appearance. Relaxed silhouettes are also gaining traction, moving away from rigid and structured designs towards more approachable and inviting forms. Roll-arm sofas or those plumped with pillows offer inherent comfort, encouraging lounging. Pillow-back sofas, characterized by loose, oversized cushions, provide flexible seating arrangements but may require regular fluffing. Soft and sculptural shapes, featuring elegant curves, continue to be popular. These fluid designs create calming and cozy environments, ranging from large sectionals to smaller loveseats. The re-emergence of curves is linked to biophilic and biomorphic design, drawing inspiration from organic natural shapes. Contrast trim, such as piping, fringe, or box pleating, is a fun way to elevate traditional sofas, adding a fashionable touch for 2025. Fringe introduces movement and vintage glamour, while contrast welting and piping integrate color and contrast directly into the upholstery, offering a customized and high-end feel. This allows neutral sofas to have an interesting edge with complementary or unexpected details. Regarding color palettes, earth tones are a dominant theme for sofas in 2025, with warm, rich hues like terracotta and umber creating a sense of warmth and grounding. Decorating with brown is expected to continue its prominence. These tones, especially when paired with tactile fabrics like brushed linen, add depth and richness. Personality-packed patterns are also making a statement, allowing for expressive and individualized spaces. Folk-inspired prints and South American textiles, featuring embroidery techniques like chain stitch and crewelwork, add texture and a handcrafted look. Custom upholstery is identified as a major trend, allowing for unique pieces that perfectly fit a space's dimensions, patterns, or creative vision. This trend caters to a desire for personalized homes, moving away from mass-produced furniture. Investing in custom sofas is seen as a timeless and sustainable purchase that offers long-term value. Nostalgic designs, particularly those influenced by the 1980s, are also resurfacing. The charming chintz fabric trend, with its lively floral patterns, is finding its way into upholstery and curtain designs, especially for English country decor styles. Finally, extra deep cushions are a key feature for comfort-driven sofa designs. Oversized sofas with deep, plump cushions prioritize relaxation and lounging, signaling a move away from stiff, occasional seating. This trend emphasizes curating spaces for social connection and comfortable living. In terms of colors, 2025 trends are moving away from classic neutrals like gray and stark white towards bolder shades such as deep blues, greens, rich reds, and chocolate browns. While lighter hues like light blue and butter yellow remain popular, moodier colors are becoming more en vogue. Sofa styles that are considered outdated include overly coordinated matching furniture sets and impractical, overly stylized designs that prioritize aesthetics over comfort and functionality. #SofaTrends #InteriorDesign #Furniture #HomeDecor #LuxuriousFabrics #EarthTones #CustomUpholstery #RelaxedSilhouettes #SculpturalShapes

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

Designer Clive Lonstein, based in Manhattan, showcases his philosophy of creating balance through contrasts in the transformation of a bedroom with a sitting area in a New York City suburb. Lonstein's approach blends antiques with contemporary elements, Old World craftsmanship with modern colors, and fosters intimacy within expansive spaces. His design for this project heavily features Italian-made luxury fabrics, rugs, and wall coverings from Coraggio, along with a custom area rug from Thibaut and throws from Rosemary Hallgarten. A key aspect of Lonstein's design is the strategic use of texture over overt patterns. He highlights that texture is a hallmark of his work, and Coraggio's sumptuous, to-the-trade offerings were ideal for fulfilling the client's desire for an intimate room that avoided feeling dark or cluttered. The Coraggio Elevato Wallcovering, a basket-weave raffia, was chosen for its ability to add detail and warmth while maintaining a sophisticated, minimalist palette. Lonstein notes the dual scales at play: the macro scale of large squares composed of much finer strands, creating a rich yet uncluttered aesthetic. The natural variations in the 100-percent-raffia fibers contribute to a variegated color and dimensional texture, particularly around corners and the bed's bump-outs. Despite the room's cathedral ceiling and inherent openness, the wallcovering imparts a sense of coziness and intimacy, transforming the overall feel of the bedroom. Another principle applied by Lonstein is clothing traditional shapes in modern colorways, aiming for a rich appearance without excessive complexity. He appreciates the material integrity of Coraggio's offerings, even in simple, solid colors, which lend a contemporary feel. For a classic armchair in the sitting area, he selected a shimmering cognac-colored Royal Silk Mohair Fabric from Coraggio, enhancing it with accessories in similar shades but different fabrics, such as a Solaro fabric pillow in Cognac and a Pebble Strie throw in Camo from Rosemary Hallgarten. For an adjacent loveseat, Lonstein opted for green, a favored shade for its freshness and versatility, using Coraggio’s linen-cotton blend Solaro fabric in Olive. Throw pillows in Astratto and Burano fabrics, along with other accessories like a jade lamp base and bed bolster, maintain a monochromatic, tone-on-tone scheme within this zone. Lonstein emphasizes the paramount importance of quality in textiles, noting that Coraggio's materials are crafted by master weavers in Italy, ensuring luxurious finishes and drape. Lonstein also focused on marrying timeless style with practical, modern elements. The bedroom features an eclectic mix of antiques and new acquisitions, including vintage wood doors hung on roller tracks that serve as a visual anchor and subtly connect to the loveseat's fabric and outdoor greenery through their remnants of green paint. While mostly vintage tables dot the space, they are accessorized with contemporary ceramics. A practical addition is the neutral-colored, highly textural Sonoma AREAS Rug from Thibaut. Made from synthetic PET, this rug is both soft underfoot and durable, as well as easy to clean. This versatility is crucial to Lonstein’s design process and influences his material choices. He asserts that high-quality, high-design lines like Coraggio’s provide significant design agility. Lonstein believes that environments profoundly impact human well-being, and transforming a home to reflect its inhabitants creates immense harmony. Coraggio products are available to the trade, with information on their offerings and services accessible online. #InteriorDesign #LuxuryFabrics #BedroomDesign #CliveLonstein #DesignContrasts #Coraggio #Thibaut #RosemaryHallgarten #TextureInDesign

The Sabi textile range by Louise Sigvardt for Kvadrat is a woolen upholstery collection designed to explore the interplay of color, textures, and layers. Developed by Copenhagen-based designer Louise Sigvardt, these textiles are produced using a traditional dobby weave technique. The material composition includes both virgin wool and post-industrial recycled wool, sourced from UK yarn spinner Wooltex. The virgin wool is utilized for the vibrant, colored threads, while the recycled wool is dyed in darker tones. This strategic combination aims to create a dynamic depth within the fabric. Sigvardt's inspiration for the Sabi collection stemmed from her personal experience renovating her home, during which she became particularly interested in the process of layering colors and textures. She emphasized her focus on exploring color combinations that reveal different nuances as layers are examined, both literally and figuratively. This design philosophy translates into textiles that offer a visual journey, with individual colors becoming more apparent upon closer inspection. The Sabi collection features a rich and diverse palette of colorways, designed to bridge the gap between contemporary aesthetics and shades characteristic of the 1970s and 1980s. This blend of historical and modern hues contributes significantly to the visual depth and multidimensional effect of the textiles. Kvadrat describes how the perception of color in Sabi evolves as one approaches the textile, gradually revealing its various color components. The color options available within the Sabi range include names such as Mellow Butter, Acid Green, Camel Brown, Sour Lavender, and Prima Magenta, indicating a broad spectrum of choices. This collection is a part of Kvadrat's 2021 Fall collection, which aims to uphold the brand's core values. These values encompass visionary design, a high degree of color accuracy, engineering excellence in production, and superior functional performance. The Sabi textile range, therefore, represents a product that is not only aesthetically sophisticated but also aligns with Kvadrat's commitment to quality and innovative textile design. #UpholsteryTextiles #WoolenFabric #Kvadrat #LouiseSigvardt #TextileDesign #InteriorDecoration #SustainableMaterials #ColorTheory #HomeFurnishings

The article explores the predicted sofa trends for 2025, moving away from minimalist and mid-century aesthetics towards more personality-driven pieces. Designers anticipate a resurgence of fresh patterns and silhouettes, incorporating inviting fabrics like velvet and mohair, and revamping classic features such as Chesterfield tufting and skirting. The overarching theme emphasizes creating living spaces that reflect individual preferences and offer both style and comfort. One significant trend identified is the re-imagining of boomerang sofas. Traditionally confined to difficult nooks, designers like Leanne Ford envision these angled corner sofas as central pieces, floated in the middle of larger living areas. This approach aims to provide greater flexibility in layout, freeing homeowners from wall constraints and enabling more dynamic and functional room arrangements. Several examples of boomerang-style sectionals are provided, demonstrating their adaptability and modern appeal. Geometric shapes are also expected to gain prominence, with designers like Keren Richter of White Arrow recommending sofas that draw inspiration from Bauhaus, French Art Deco, or 1970s Italian design. These 'chunky' geometric pieces are considered trend-proof classics, often paired with chrome finishes and warm wood tones. Clive Lonstein further notes a shift towards more eclectic styles, featuring complex designs that combine multiple materials and dynamic shapes, moving beyond single-material reliance. Examples showcase a variety of geometric and curved sofas that embody this trend. Layered patterns are another key trend, with designers encouraging homeowners to embrace bold prints and colors in their formal rooms. Laura Collins advocates for patterned sofas as a celebratory element in a home, noting their practical advantage in hiding spills compared to stark white upholstery. Anne McDonald highlights patterned sofas as a way to inject personality, especially in rooms lacking architectural interest, suggesting pairings with vintage wood coffee tables and woven rugs. Mandy Cheng advises contrasting patterns for pillows to add visual depth. The article presents several patterned sofas, including floral and striped options, as well as settees. Deluxe textures such as velvet and mohair are highlighted by Corine Maggio for their ability to elevate a space with softness and vibrant energy. These inviting fabrics are ideally suited for deep-seated couches or sprawling sectionals, promoting peak lounging and comfort. The article features examples of sectional sofas and standard sofas upholstered in luxurious materials. The classic Chesterfield silhouette is predicted to make a comeback, with designers like Alykhan Velji suggesting unexpected upholstery choices, such as rich colors or materials beyond traditional leather, to modernize its timeless appeal. The focus is on detailed considerations that transform the Chesterfield into a room's focal point. Examples of updated Chesterfield sofas are provided, showcasing variations in color and fabric. Contemporary skirting is another classic detail receiving a modern update. Nacho Polo of STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN foresees this traditional feature appearing on minimalist pieces, with innovative finishes like fringe, contrast piping, or bold colors. This trend allows for a playful reinterpretation of skirting, as illustrated by various sofas featuring this detail. Finally, modular designs continue to be popular for their practicality and versatility. Sapna Aggarwal emphasizes their ability to transform a living room for different uses, from cozy movie nights to social gatherings. She suggests using neutral modular sofas as a base, then customizing them with colorful accent pillows or woven accessories to add personality. Several modular sofa configurations are presented. The article also touches upon 'warm minimalism,' a concept from Meyer and Davis of Meyer Davis, which blends simple colors and unfussy forms with curved elements, comfortable proportions, and mixed materials. This approach offers a sophisticated yet livable aesthetic, balancing early 2000s stark minimalism with the overly casual deep-seated sofas of the 2010s. Examples of sofas embodying warm minimalism are included, characterized by their understated elegance and comfort. #CouchTrends #SofaDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FurnitureTrends #LivingRoom #DesignersPredict #PatternedSofas #LuxuryFabrics

An interior designer who specializes in high-profile clients, including influencers and CEOs, reveals current trends in luxury home decor. Wealthy homeowners are increasingly seeking unique elements that combine aesthetic appeal with personal narrative. A significant trend involves incorporating expensive conversation pieces, such as salvaged architectural elements like a 17th-century French fireplace or a weathered wooden door from an Italian villa. These items serve as distinctive focal points and discussion starters, reflecting a desire for pieces with historical context and a story. Custom art is another growing demand among affluent clients. Instead of purchasing mass-produced pieces, clients are collaborating with designers to create bespoke artwork that aligns with their individual visions and personalities. This process often involves large-scale paintings or canvases, and while costly, it offers a deeply personalized touch that standard art cannot provide. The emphasis is on the creative journey and the fulfillment of owning a truly unique masterpiece. Sustainability is emerging as a key consideration in luxury design. Wealthy clients are actively seeking eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions for their homes. Examples include energy-efficient lighting, reclaimed wood, and the integration of renewable energy sources. The designer highlights a recent project where sustainably made mattresses were sourced and barn boards were salvaged for a kitchen backsplash, indicating a shift towards environmentally conscious luxury. This trend is expected to grow, with designers exploring innovative ways to reuse and repurpose materials like marble. Statement stones such as onyx and exotic marbles are highly favored for their bold colors, rich veining, and striking impact. These materials are used to elevate spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, transforming ordinary countertops and backsplashes into captivating features. The preference for these unique stones signals a move away from minimalist, all-white interiors towards more expressive and visually engaging designs. Custom-made furniture is also a staple in high-end homes, allowing for perfect sizing and coordination within a space. While mass-produced options are still utilized, custom pieces offer unparalleled opportunities for personalization in terms of style, fabric selection, and cushion fillings. This ensures that furniture not only fits the dimensions of a room but also reflects the client's specific aesthetic preferences and functional needs. Ambient lighting is being integrated into homes to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Custom ambient lighting, which can include hidden LED strips or artfully designed lamps, is used to achieve a soft, glowing illumination throughout every corner of a house. This approach enhances the luxurious and relaxing feel of the living spaces, reminiscent of high-end restaurant environments. Furthermore, organic mattresses are gaining popularity due to concerns about chemicals like volatile organic compounds found in traditional polyurethane foam mattresses. Clients are opting for organic alternatives for health reasons. Lastly, luxurious linen materials are ubiquitous, being used not just for bedding but also for furniture upholstery and window treatments. Linen's versatility, breathability, and sophisticated aesthetic contribute to an effortlessly luxurious feel in various applications within the home. #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomeDecor #HighEndClients #SustainableDesign #CustomFurniture #AmbientLighting #OrganicMattresses #StatementStones #LinenMaterials

This article highlights various home decor and furniture pieces, emphasizing unique designs, craftsmanship, and the stories behind their creation. It features a reintroduction of the Lawrence Peabody chair from 1962, now custom-crafted in America from solid teak or wicker with high-density foam cushions and customizable fabric choices. Another piece is Shanan Campanaro's largest rug collection for Eskayel, inspired by Marrakech and the High Atlas Mountains. This collection includes the Kotoubia/Duomo rug, made from Merino wool and silk blend, hand-knotted with varied weave structures and pile heights. The article also presents a whimsical kitchen apron called 'Siberia' by Helen Wilson of Witch and Watchman, depicting a jungle of animals on a crimson Siberica leaf background, offering an eccentric take on chinoiserie. Pillows designed by Sigi Ahl are showcased, crafted from felt made from recycled clothing by Eileen Fisher, as part of Fisher's zero-waste initiative, which has seen over a million clothing items returned. Joana Aranha's Fingerprint Chaise Longue, made from Indian Acacia wood with an extra matte varnish and a linen-cotton blend upholstery, is also featured. Her pillows incorporate hand-sewn gold zippers and a trademark tassel with the 'flower of India' insignia, inspired by a red flower Aranha found in New Delhi. Adriana Hoyos' Rumba upholstered chair is described with its distinctive silhouette, pronounced curves, generous seat, and gold-finish metal studs on a wooden frame, combining comfort, craftsmanship, and design. The Francis desk, named after Hillary Petrie's father, is presented as a simple yet complex piece with intricate joinery, ideal for floating in a room. This custom version is crafted from natural Douglas fir with a clear water-based finish and saddle leather drawers, all made in Egg Collective's woodshop or in collaboration with New York City fabricators. Michael Wainwright's new artisanal dinnerware brand for Lenox, 'Crafted,' introduces the Pompeii collection, which features durable stoneware with charming blue-on-white patterns and gold accents, designed for playful layering and everyday use. The Margot Chest by Bruce Andrews is highlighted for its dazzling emerald green, piano-ribbed front, and silver leaf-covered solid maple base with contoured legs. Handcrafted in America, this piece measures 40 3/4 inches wide, 18 3/4 inches deep, and 44 inches tall from its 12-inch leg. Aoife Mullane's textiles feature foiling on fabric, drawing inspiration from sea glass and pebbles, incorporating glamorous metallic touches in bronze, copper, and silver. Michele Varian's lighting designs are noted for their use of solid, unplated metals like brass, copper, or steel, with sculptural Mala 'bead' pendants inspired by Constantin Brancusi and modern primitive design, which will naturally patina over time. Alexandra Petrache's HALFDROP textile collection, specifically the Layers Yellow pattern, is shown, inspired by antique Romanian rag rugs. This reinterpretation features bold, organically layered patterns in mustard yellow and complementary grays, with hand-drawn lines enhancing fluidity. These 20-inch pillows are made of 100 percent cotton. The Lake Shore Watercolor Console from John Strauss Furniture is presented as a piece of art, featuring a watercolor by Tracy Hiner digitally printed and applied as a veneer to the doors, protected by an acrylic coating. The console has a satin sheen navy lacquer finish, stainless steel legs, and touch-latch doors with adjustable shelves. Lastly, Stacy Kunstel's Chunky Captain Compass Table, designed with Michael Partenio, features a massive turned maple base painted in a glossy custom Benjamin Moore color, Blueberry Hill, and topped with a 48-inch white-honed Carrara marble. Maggie Cruz’s Alexandra Cane Bench, influenced by her Cuban heritage and Miami, showcases Art Deco styling in a coral dust finish with white-washed cane and optic white linen upholstery. #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #InteriorStyling #TextileDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #SustainableDesign #ModernPrimitiveDesign #ArtDeco

The Sumi fabric collection by Camira has been expanded to include 21 new color finishes. Originally launched in 2020 with six neutral shades, the updated collection now features a broader spectrum of bright hues, pastels, and dark tones. These new additions are inspired by natural dyes derived from plants and minerals, aligning with the collection's organic aesthetic. The textiles are crafted from worsted wool, known for its minimal and natural appearance. Designed to be versatile, the Sumi fabrics are suitable for a range of applications. They can be used for upholstery on furniture, covering vertical surfaces, and creating curtains and drapery. Additionally, the collection is also recommended for acoustic panels, suggesting its potential to contribute to sound management in various settings. This expansion aims to increase the product's adaptability across different interior design and architectural contexts. The development and manufacturing process of the Sumi textiles occur at Camira's facility in Yorkshire, England. The dyeing process for these fabrics utilizes water sourced from the Pennine hills, emphasizing a connection to natural resources. Lynn Kingdon, Camira's head of creative, noted the popularity of the Sumi collection since its initial launch and expressed that the timing was right to introduce the new color offerings. The intention behind these new shades was to replicate colors achievable through natural dyes, further enhancing the collection's organic appeal. The expanded Sumi collection became available for purchase starting September 20. This release signifies Camira's continuous effort to innovate and diversify its product lines, catering to evolving design preferences while maintaining a focus on natural inspirations and manufacturing integrity. The inclusion of a wider array of colors allows designers and consumers more options to integrate these woollen fabrics into their projects, whether for residential or commercial spaces, where both aesthetics and functionality, such as acoustic properties, are important considerations. #SumiFabric #Camira #TextileDesign #NaturalDyes #WoolFabrics #Upholstery #InteriorDesign #AcousticPanels

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams has announced a significant partnership with Kravet, a well-established textile source, to expand its upholstery fabric selection. This collaboration is a strategic move to address evolving consumer expectations for greater product personalization within the home furnishings market. The demand for mass-produced items is declining, and customers now anticipate a wider array of customization options, similar to those available for products like sneakers or luxury cars. The enhanced fabric offerings aim to elevate the customer experience by providing more choices for personalizing furniture pieces. Through this partnership, customers visiting any of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' 30 Signature Stores nationwide will have access to over 340 Kravet fabrics. This extensive selection will be available for various furniture categories, including sofas, chairs, sectionals, dining chairs, and beds. Bob Williams, president of design at Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, emphasized that this investment in personalization is crucial for ensuring customers truly love the pieces they select for their homes, fostering a sense of heirloom quality. Beyond consumer benefits, the collaboration offers substantial advantages for interior designers. Chairman Mitchell Gold highlighted that designers can now procure products for their clients much more quickly. Previously, specifying Kravet fabric for a customer’s own material (COM) project would typically add one to two weeks to the lead time. With the new program, upholstered furniture orders will be delivered within a standard 10 to 12 weeks, streamlining the design process. Williams worked closely with Kravet to curate the fabric assortment, specifically targeting gaps in Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' existing upholstery collection. This effort resulted in a selection that introduces more patterns and textures, featuring luxurious velvets and richly toned jacquards. A majority of these newly integrated fabrics are also treated with a stain-retardant finish and meet residential performance standards, enhancing durability and practicality. The selected Kravet fabrics are organized into seven distinct fabric books: Sky, Twilight, Ford, Natural, Slate, Seagrass, and Graphite. The expanded fabric options are currently exclusive to Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Signature locations, aligning with the brand's omnichannel strategy. Allison O’Connor, president and CEO of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, who was brought in for her expertise in omnichannel product, noted that this exclusivity is a deliberate step to ensure the brand is accessible wherever customers prefer to shop. Plans are also underway to introduce the program digitally. O’Connor also underscored the strategic positioning benefits of the partnership, stating that Kravet's strong reputation within the industry will help maintain Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' presence in the minds of interior designers. #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #Customization #TextilePartnership #UpholsteryFabric #RetailStrategy #DesignTrends

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

The Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Manhattan, which features works from 23 top interior design firms, provides inspiration for incorporating textiles into home decor beyond traditional upholstery. The article highlights four innovative approaches to utilizing fabric, demonstrating its versatility in creating luxurious and artistic spaces. One approach involves fashioning a contemporary canopy bed. Timothy Whealon's design showcases a modern canopy bed using a geometric fabric by Jennifer Shorto for Claremont. This fabric features watercolor hues of lavender, green, and blue, creating a dreamy and luxurious aesthetic. The design reimagines the classic canopy, providing both privacy and a focal point for the bedroom. Another creative use of textiles is to explore an artistic side by swathing entire walls in fabric, and then enhancing them with artistic applications. Designer Phillip Thomas commissioned Andrew Tedesco Studios to decorate the fabric-clad walls of his "Lady Lair" with vibrant hues. This technique not only makes a bold statement but also serves to visually enlarge a small space, demonstrating how textiles can be a medium for expansive artistic expression. The third method involves covering every inch of the wall, including architectural details, with fabric. The interior design firm Drake / Anderson employed a French upholstery technique called gainage in a bedroom. This method involves meticulously applying fabric to walls from top to bottom, extending it over moldings, electrical outlets, and light switch plates. This creates a seamless, enveloping textile environment that adds warmth and texture to the room, transforming it into a cohesive and luxurious space. Finally, the article suggests wrapping furniture in textiles to add texture and unique character to a room. In a bedroom designed by Maximilian Sinsteden and Catherine Olasky of Olasky & Sinsteden, custom-made twin canopy beds were upholstered in a sand-hued Fermoie fabric. This application demonstrates how fabric can transform furniture pieces into tactile and visually engaging elements within a design scheme. These examples from the Kips Bay Decorator Show House illustrate how textiles can be ingeniously integrated into home interiors, offering solutions for enhancing aesthetics, creating visual interest, and defining spaces with a touch of luxury and creativity. #TextileDecor #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #KipsBayShowHouse #FabricWalls #CanopyBed #UpholsteryTechniques #LuxuryInteriors #CreativeTextileUse

This article explores how incorporating specific fabrics and materials can significantly enhance a home's style and luxurious feel, drawing inspiration from the design principles of the 2023 INFINITI QX60 Crossover SUV. The article emphasizes that attention to detail, even in the smallest characteristics, can create a substantial impact on the overall aesthetic and comfort of a living space. The goal is to make one's home as stylish and indulgent as a high-end vehicle, offering a welcoming retreat after a long day. The article highlights five key materials, each chosen for its unique properties of comfort, effortlessness, and durability. The first material discussed is leather, known for its ability to add warmth and comfort. It notes that INFINITI conducted extensive research to identify the most pleasing material feels, including soft-touch leather, which is integrated into the QX60. Leather is presented as a durable and easy-to-care-for option for home furnishings, such as kitchen stools, to introduce a contrasting texture against hard surfaces. Next, faux fur is introduced as a way to inject coziness and warmth into a room, particularly during colder months. The article advises a minimalist approach, suggesting one or two faux fur pieces per room—like an area rug, a throw blanket, or a pillow—to prevent overwhelming the space while still achieving an inviting ambiance. Velvet is presented as a material that exudes sophistication and luxury due to its sleek and soft texture. It is recommended for various home items, including sofas, throw pillows, dining chairs, and curtains. A key advantage of velvet is its ability to intensify color, allowing for bold design choices with vibrant hues such as royal blue, emerald green, or mustard, thereby adding a significant design statement to any room. This is compared to the INFINITI QX60's availability in distinct exterior colors like Deep Bordeaux and Grand Blue, suggesting parallel design philosophies. Stainless steel is discussed as a material to create visual interest through metal accents. The article suggests using stainless steel wall art, bar carts, cocktail accessories, brushed nickel hardware, and copper cookware to introduce a blend of textures. This juxtaposition with softer elements, like chunky knit throws, can add depth and brightness to a room. The interplay of different materials and finishes is central to achieving a balanced and dynamic interior. Finally, marble is highlighted for its chic, elegant, and highly durable properties, as well as its resistance to high heat. While ideal for countertops, its versatility extends to other areas of the home, such as sturdy coffee tables, decorative bowls and vases, or even a marble fireplace surround. The unique veining of each marble slab ensures a personalized and one-of-a-kind touch, underscoring the material's inherent exclusivity and natural beauty. These material choices collectively contribute to elevating the home's overall style and creating a sophisticated, comfortable environment. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FabricSelection #MaterialTrends #LuxuryInteriors #LeatherFurniture #VelvetDecor #FauxFurAccents #MarbleDesign