Robin Grasby reveals Altrock furniture collection made from reclaimed marble

The article highlights the growing trend of using dramatically veined, exotic marble in home design, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, and showcases Ann Sacks as a leading supplier in this niche. Ann Sacks, a Portland, Oregon-based company, is expanding its retail presence with new slab galleries and showrooms, including recent openings in Nashville and Dallas, and an upcoming location in Long Island City, Queens, New York, in September 2023. These showrooms are designed to allow designers and clients to hand-select large segments of natural stone, emphasizing a personalized and immersive shopping experience. DeeDee Gundberg, Ann Sacks' chief designer, explains that the company curates its marble from various global sources like Italy, Greece, Portugal, and India, focusing on premium varieties such as Carrara and Calacatta that appeal to luxury clients and align with current interior design trends. Unlike competitors who might offer manufactured quartz, Ann Sacks prioritizes natural marble, treating each slab as a piece of art due to its unique patterns and balance. This approach aims to create a 'wow factor' in residential spaces, moving beyond traditional all-white aesthetics to embrace richer colorways and striking veining. The article features two designers who have successfully incorporated Ann Sacks marble into their projects. Nikki Chu, for her Dallas home, selected Calacatta Viola—an Italian marble with deep eggplant purple, maroon brown, and warm gold veining—for her kitchen backsplash and island. Chu transformed her 1969 bungalow into an open-plan space with high ceilings, making the marble island the focal point, complemented by a 9-foot-wide Lindsey Adelman chandelier that enhances the veining's movement. Her design challenges the traditional Dallas aesthetic, creating a dynamic and sophisticated kitchen that has garnered many compliments. Jean Stoffer, another designer, used a cooler-toned Turkish marble with a subtle lilac hue for a colonial home in Cedar Rapids, Michigan. She ingeniously used unlacquered brass strips to delineate seams between slabs on the kitchen backsplash, creating an illusion of continuous veining and adding a touch of glamour. Stoffer also opted for a honed finish, preferring its ability to display the marble's nuances without glare, a choice facilitated by Ann Sacks offering both honed and polished options. She acknowledges that while marble is beautiful, it can show wear over time, but embraces this as part of a home's unique history, advocating for regular sealing to protect the stone. The new retail model adopted by Ann Sacks combines showroom and warehouse functions, offering an enhanced experience. The forthcoming Queens location, for instance, will feature a slab gallery alongside a merchandised presentation of samples, lighting, bathroom vanities and mirrors from Robern, and faucets from Kallista. This holistic approach aims to provide designers with a comprehensive resource for their projects, allowing them to collaborate, select materials, and even enjoy amenities like coffee in a scullery kitchen. The immersive environment, as described by Chu, transforms the shopping experience into a global tour of geological beauty, reinforcing the idea that each marble slab is a 'slice of heaven,' unique to its region and reflective of the earth's dynamics. #AnnSacks #MarbleDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #NaturalStone #RetailExperience #DesignTrends

Michael Graves Design, in collaboration with Pottery Barn, has launched a new collection of home furnishings that prioritizes accessibility without compromising on style or aesthetic appeal. This partnership builds upon both brands' commitment to subvert the often clinical or uninspired aesthetic associated with accessible design, instead offering dignified solutions for a broader range of users. The term "accessible" in this context refers to products designed to be independently usable by individuals with varying abilities, a concept distinct from, yet complementary to, universal design. The collection specifically addresses the needs of differently-abled persons through thoughtful consideration in its design process. The new range includes three bedroom collections and two complementary armchairs, all designed with functionality and safety as primary concerns. The collection integrates innovative enhancements with elegant design details to facilitate effortless living, a standard often taken for granted. A highlight of the collection is the Cayman Collection, which exemplifies Michael Graves' iconic modernist approach. This collection features a bed with a built-in storage bench, a nightstand, a six-drawer dresser, and an upholstered dresser seat. Each piece is crafted from solid mango wood with a warm finish, exhibiting simple geometry, an engaging interplay of solid and void elements, and clear edge articulation. These design choices subtly reveal how form directly follows function within the collection. Several pragmatic features are incorporated into the Cayman Collection. For instance, seemingly inset surfaces create front grab rails and raised edges, preventing items from rolling off the dresser or nightstand. The nightstand is equipped with an integrated power strip and drawer cutouts to discreetly conceal medical devices and their associated cords. The bed frame includes subtle armrests with pull and roll side grips, aiding in repositioning and contributing to human balance, while also visually harmonizing the headboard with the built-in bench. Tubular inset feet on the bed frame are designed to minimize the risk of tripping and stubbed toes. The dresser's elevated base and raised bottom drawer are specifically designed to accommodate wheelchair clearance, providing up to 9 inches of space. Additionally, large voids within the furniture offer open storage, easily accessible when seated or positioned nearby. The Bradford Armchair, a corresponding piece to the Cayman style, features minimal tubular legs, flat arms, and oversized cushions. This design experiments with scale and incorporates touchpoints within the room, with moments of contrast serving as cues for mobility and balance. The chair also includes a taller seat, adjustable foot heights, and a rear handrail, further enhancing support for users. Ben Wintner, CEO of Michael Graves Design, notes the increasing focus on accessibility within the design community, comparing it to the earlier emphasis on sustainability. This mainstream collaboration with Pottery Barn is seen as a positive development, making aspirational and exemplary design more widely available and potentially inspiring future designers to further democratize beauty and functional design. #AccessibleDesign #HomeFurnishings #PotteryBarn #MichaelGravesDesign #BedroomFurniture #InclusiveDesign #ModernDesign #FunctionalDesign

Italian design duo Alcarol will present their "New Visions" furniture collection at the Mint Gallery during the London Design Festival 2014. The collection features furniture pieces created by suspending natural materials in resin. This exhibition, titled "Elements of Craft," is curated by Lina Kanafani and highlights the impact of craft on design. The collection is characterized by three distinct designs: FishEye, Dolomyth, and Undergrowth. Each design incorporates natural materials sourced from the regions around the designers' home country, spanning from the Venetian lagoon to the Dolomite mountains. The primary aim of Alcarol's work is to preserve the natural surfaces of these materials by encapsulating them in resin, thereby giving them a new purpose and aesthetic life within furniture. The FishEye series includes stools and side tables crafted from sections of timber poles retrieved from Venice's canals. These oak logs bear the marks of decades of weathering and the distinctive circular holes created by Teredo Navalis, commonly known as shipworms. Alcarol fills these natural imperfections and cracks with transparent resin, forming a cylindrical structure that is then fitted with swivel casters at its base. The design emphasizes the historical and aesthetic value of timber that has withstood the elements in Venice's waterways. The Dolomyth pieces are constructed around chunks of mountain rock, complete with natural mosses and lichens. These stones, harvested from abandoned quarries, showcase geological layers ranging in color from pink to grey. The designers cut the rock into a cuboid shape, with resin applied over the mossy surface to create a flat, functional top. This design seeks to capture the complex relief and harmonious blend of structural forms and climatic conditions found in the Dolomite mountains. Finally, the Undergrowth series features bookshelves and consoles made from solid oak planks. These planks are connected by steel rods that pass through the wood, creating a self-supporting structure. The mossy edges of the oak planks are encased in resin, preserving their natural state and creating the visual effect of the log sections being suspended in mid-air. This design aims for essentiality, showcasing the raw beauty of the natural materials. The New Visions collection will be part of a larger exhibition at the Mint Gallery, which will feature over 30 pieces by emerging designers. These contemporary works will be displayed alongside pieces from the 1970s and 1980s, creating a dialogue around the evolution of craft in design. The exhibition will run from September 13th until the end of the month, coinciding with the London Design Festival. #Alcarol #NewVisionsCollection #ResinFurniture #LondonDesignFestival #MintGallery #CraftDesign #NaturalMaterials #FurnitureDesign

This article from T Magazine highlights a range of cultural and lifestyle recommendations, featuring a former N.F.L. player turned furniture designer, a new art gallery in TriBeCa, a botanical-inspired wallpaper collection, an Athens restaurant showcasing contemporary Greek art, a homey Seattle hotel, and a hand-painted apparel line. Each section provides details about the featured subject, including their background, inspiration, notable works, and practical information for visitors or consumers. Michael Bennett, a former N.F.L. player, founded Studio Kër after retiring from football in 2020. His furniture designs are deeply inspired by his activism work for racial justice, his upbringing in Louisiana and Texas, and his ancestral roots in Senegal. Bennett’s inaugural exhibition, “We Gotta Get Back to the Crib,” features an 11-piece collection of sculptural furniture that reinterprets objects found in communal Black spaces. Key pieces include the Gumbo lounge chair, a sophisticated take on the monobloc chair, and the Pew couch, inspired by church benches, crafted from leather and ekki wood. The exhibition debuted at Theaster Gates’s Rebuild Foundation in Chicago and is scheduled to travel to Houston. In TriBeCa, New York, gallerist Jack Shainman opened a new 20,000-square-foot gallery called The Hall in the historic Clock Tower Building. This Beaux-Arts space, built around 1898 and formerly home to the New York Life Insurance Company, has been renovated and restored. The gallery serves as a new cultural center offering free exhibits, allowing visitors to appreciate both contemporary art and the historic Manhattan architecture, including its preserved bank vault and 29-foot-high coffered wood ceilings. The Hall plans to officially open in September with a 16-foot-tall bronze sculpture by artist Nick Cave. Currently, it features Richard Mosse’s immersive 74-minute multi-spectral video installation, “Broken Spectre,” which addresses the destruction of the Amazon rainforest. Mosse emphasizes the historical connection between the building’s past, built on wealth from enslaved people, and ongoing global issues like environmental destruction. Marian McEvoy, a former fashion and design editor, launched a new wallpaper and fabric collection with Schumacher, inspired by her botanical collages and illustrations. After nearly 30 years in Paris and Manhattan, McEvoy moved to a cottage on the Hudson River, where she creates her art. Her collaboration with Schumacher features six wallcoverings and four fabrics, including prints like Thistle Vine, Polka-Dot Jungle, and Bow-Wow-Wow, all reflecting her signature use of strong colors and lines. McEvoy has incorporated these designs into her own home, showcasing her personal approval of the collection. In Athens, entrepreneur and art collector Philippos Tsangrides opened Gallina, a restaurant designed by Objects of Common Interest. The interiors blend diverse materials such as red marble, pink leather, terrazzo, and wood, creating an unexpected aesthetic. Gallina also displays pieces from Tsangrides’s private art collection, including a silk tapestry by Jannis Varelas and a neon sign by Olga Migliaressi-Phoca. A notable design element is a sinuous white light tube by the architects. The menu, curated by chef Pavlos Kiriakis, features dishes with no specific provenance, such as chicken with miso beurre blanc and truffle, and wild mushrooms with white chocolate béarnaise. Tsangrides intends to open a wine bar nearby. Julian Hagood and Jake Santelli opened Harry’s Guest House, a two-room hotel in Seattle’s Capitol Hill, inspired by their neighbor Winnie. The Dutch Colonial home was purchased from Winnie, whose drawings and wooden writing desk are now integrated into the hotel’s design. One suite is named after Winnie, and the other after the couple’s dog, Lucy. The interiors combine vintage and contemporary furniture and textiles, featuring a 1940s hand-carved wardrobe and Zak+Fox fabrics. Guests can also enjoy in-room dining from Harry’s Fine Foods, Hagood’s adjacent restaurant. Artists Julia Dault and Hannah Whitaker launched Signs Point to Yes, a line of hand-painted apparel. Their sweatshirts and pants feature designs like metallic tulips, sherbet-hued confetti, and smiley (and sad) faces, often painted using ketchup bottles to achieve a gestural, imperfect style. The brand name, inspired by a Magic 8 Ball, conveys a sense of optimistic humor. The artists selected comfortable cotton garments as their canvases, recognizing their popularity during the pandemic and their continued appeal beyond loungewear. #SculpturalFurniture #ArtExhibition #Design #ArtGallery #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Restaurants #Hotels #Fashion

Rachel Gray, a Memphis-based interior designer, showcases her creative philosophy through the design of her own home, which serves as a living laboratory for her design principles. Unlike her professional work, where she follows a structured layering process for clients, her personal approach prioritizes continuous change, experimentation, and the integration of found objects and art. Her design decisions are influenced by her global travels, embracing diverse aesthetics and a willingness to evolve her living space. Gray views her home as an interior design lab, where she tests new ideas and evaluates products before recommending them to clients. An example is the rug under her dining room's Parsons table, which she is currently assessing for quality. Her dining room features a unique "Mary Poppins" light fixture, crafted from copper by an Italian designer, alongside red aluminum chairs sourced from St. Louis. The ever-changing nature of her home is highlighted by the recent replacement of dining chairs, a decision prompted by a client's interest in her previous set. Decorative elements like a "Therapy" sign found on the street and brass Moroccan lanterns discovered during an attic clean-up further illustrate her penchant for eclectic and unexpected finds. Gray is also an art consultant with a focus on abstract paintings and mixed media. She is known for guiding clients in selecting art that not only complements their interiors but also has investment potential. Her own home reflects this passion, with pieces like a Jeri Ledbetter painting, purchased for her daughter Vivian, adorning the foyer. Beyond art, Gray has a passion for furniture design and repurposing objects. Bamboo panels in her living room, which have served multiple functions from headboards to suspended lighting installations, exemplify her experimental approach to design. Her living room features an antique iron horse, a "slam dunk" discovery from an estate sale, and a circular art sculpture found on the side of a street, originally a wooden structure from a dock. A repurposed bottle-drying rack from France currently functions as a lamp, with plans to transform it into a ceiling-mounted light fixture. Gray's design aesthetic often combines unpredictable elements into seamless vignettes, such as a candle altar from Michigan juxtaposed with antique chest and mirror, reflecting woodcut prints by artist Ted Faiers. Gray's second favorite item in her home is an antique iron and wire fire screen, acquired through persistence from an antique store owner who initially deemed it not for sale. Similarly, she salvaged an oversized outdoor antique store sign, relocating it herself, showcasing her determination to incorporate unique, narrative-rich pieces into her decor. A core tenet of her design philosophy is that a home should reflect its inhabitants' favorite things, ensuring every object has a story. She emphasizes the importance of proper scale and lighting in any interior design project, advocating for dimmers to control mood and acknowledging the significant impact of natural light on color and material choices. Gray believes color should create a fluid, cohesive experience within a home, rather than segmenting spaces. Ultimately, her home is a dynamic expression of her creative process, design philosophy, and lifestyle, resulting in an engaging and evolving environment. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MemphisDesigner #ArtCollecting #RepurposedFurniture #EclecticStyle #HomeExperimentation #DesignPhilosophy #RachelGray

The "Bolete" table series, a collaboration between Hong Kong-based architect and sculptor Henry D’Ath and design-art duo Batten and Kamp, introduces a family of limited-edition coffee and side tables. These pieces are distinguished by their mushroom-like forms, crafted from hand-carved solid wood and natural stone. The design integrates the sculptural weight typical of permanent furniture with a flexible, modular approach that features configurable, overlapping surfaces. The genesis of the Bolete series traces back to a custom commission where Batten and Kamp recognized a natural synergy between D’Ath’s carved wood creations and their signature raw stone bases. This initial insight led to the formal collaboration and the development of the Bolete collection, emphasizing a harmonious blend of two distinct material elements. Each table in the Bolete series is meticulously carved by Henry D’Ath, who allows the intrinsic patterns of the wood grain and the natural contours of the stone to guide the creation of subtly organic shapes. The wooden tops are available in two finishes: a natural, sealed varnish that highlights the wood's inherent beauty, or a glossy black finish achieved through layers of calligraphy ink. The choice of wood for the tops is Camphor, a variety prevalent in China and Japan, known for its aromatic properties and natural insect-repellent qualities. For the bases, raw Taishan Granite stones are used. These stones are culturally significant, often featured in Zen gardens, and are admired for their grey-white hues, reminiscent of the dramatic Karst Mountains. Each granite base is individually sourced and intentionally left untreated, ensuring that every table possesses a unique character. The collaboration is deeply rooted in the shared heritage and mutual admiration among Alexandra Batten, Daniel Kamp, and Henry D’Ath, all originally from New Zealand but now working together in a Hong Kong studio. This shared background is reflected in the design philosophy, which embraces natural materials, robust forms, and simplicity—elements integral to New Zealand aesthetics—while also incorporating local materials and subtle Zen influences. Alexandra Batten describes the collaboration as effortless, stemming from a lifelong connection and shared artistic vision. Initially launched as a side table in 2023, the Bolete series has expanded to include coffee tables. The modular nature of the design is key, allowing for diverse configurations and sizes through the arrangement of overlapping surfaces, which enhances the collection's adaptability and aesthetic appeal. The tables are produced in limited editions, with eight pieces plus four artist proofs available per configuration, highlighting their exclusivity. Plans are underway to exhibit the series in major art and design hubs, such as New York or Paris, in 2025, further solidifying its presence in the global design landscape. The project was submitted through a DIY submission feature, reflecting a direct engagement with the creative community. #FurnitureDesign #Woodwork #StoneCraft #TableDesign #ModularDesign #LimitedEdition #DesignCollaboration #NaturalMaterials #HandCarved

The ancient art of marbling, traditionally found in antique books with its distinctive swirling and veined patterns reminiscent of Carrara quarries and Florentine workshops, is experiencing a significant resurgence in contemporary design. This centuries-old technique, once confined to specialized applications, has now permeated various aspects of modern aesthetics, from high fashion to home decor. The trend's widespread adoption is evident through its incorporation into collections by notable designers and brands. For instance, Rachel Comey has featured kaleidoscopic marbled prints in her collaboration with Target, making the sophisticated pattern accessible to a broader audience. In the realm of home decor, prominent ELLE DECOR A-List designers, such as Beata Heuman, are actively integrating marbled objects and fabrics into their clients' residences. This signifies a high-end endorsement of the trend, demonstrating its versatility and elegance in interior spaces. Beyond bespoke designs, a multitude of products are available for individuals looking to infuse this dreamy, rippling motif into their own homes. Entertaining experts and lifestyle brands, including John Derian, Rebecca Gardner, and Skye McAlpine, are offering their unique interpretations of marbling across various household items. Key product categories showcasing this trend include tabletop linens, such as those from Summerill & Bishop, which recently launched a collection of marbled linen tablecloths in multiple patterns. John Derian's shop features an array of marbled pieces, from decoupage items and papers to a unique collaboration with Astier de Villatte, and newly added marbled tabletop additions like plates, platters, and bowls crafted using a specialized stamping technique by Sylvie Saint-Andre Perrin in Paris. Decorative trays, exemplified by Wolfum Handcrafted Wooden Mix & Match Trays, offer a practical and stylish way to incorporate the pattern for organizing trinkets or serving. Dinnerware also embraces the marbled aesthetic, with brands like Bornn offering multicolor enamel sets featuring soft marbled patterns in various hues. Lighting fixtures are not left out, with Rebecca Gardner's Houses & Parties offering a range of marbled paper lampshades in diverse colors and swirls, alongside other marbled items such as party crackers, cachepots, lanterns, and scented candles. The trend extends to stationery, with Skye McAlpine's collaboration with Papier resulting in a line of marbled products including menu cards, place cards, and customizable recipe journals. Even luxury home accessories like candles are seeing this revival, as seen with the Acqua di Parma Oh L’Amore Candle, which comes with an elegant Carrara marble stand, a collaboration involving Artemest and the historic Giannini bookbinding company. Smaller decorative accents also feature marbling, such as Chantico Fireplace Matches from Ark Elements, which also offers marbled plates and bowls. Hand-marbled candles from BrightnessVermont showcase the pattern in various color schemes, highlighting its artisanal appeal. Furthermore, textiles play a significant role, with Beata Heuman's Dappled Velvet fabric available by the yard and in pillows, and Susi Bellamy's Mulberry Fantasy Marbled Velvet Square Cushion drawing inspiration from Florentine artistry. Finally, the trend makes a bold statement in wallcoverings, with Voutsa's collaboration with Lambert McGuire Design on an eye-popping marbled wallpaper used in the Hotel Saint Vincent, demonstrating the pattern's capacity to transform entire spaces. #MarblingTrend #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TabletopDecor #TextileDesign #DesignerCollaborations #LuxuryHome #ArtisanCraft #PatternResurgence

The luxury brand The Row, founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, has discreetly launched a curated vintage furniture line. This collection, found under a new 'Galerie' sub-page on The Row's website, expands on the brand's earlier foray into homeware. In early April, The Row introduced its first homeware collection during Milan Design Week, which included handwoven cashmere blankets and quilted bedding sets, presented in an intimate and minimalist style. The newly released vintage furniture line reflects The Row's signature aesthetic, characterized by understated luxury and meticulous attention to detail. This design philosophy was notably evident in the interiors of their flagship store in Paris, where furniture played a crucial role in shaping the twins' vision. Examples from the Paris store include two 1940 wooden Traineau chairs by Victor Courtray and a 1955 black Georges Jouve coffee table, alongside custom-built seating that subtly references Californian design, such as a 1930 coffee table by Michel Dufet. The online curated selection features a range of significant 20th-century pieces from renowned designers. Highlights include a Charlotte Perriand Cansado Table from 1958, a pair of armchairs by Guillerme et Chambron from 1960, a round wood and metal side table by Louis Sognot dating back to 1930, and a foldable chair by Pierre Dariel from 1934. These selections underscore The Row's commitment to timeless design and high-quality craftsmanship, extending their brand identity beyond fashion into the realm of home furnishings. The quiet launch of this collection is consistent with The Row's typically private and understated approach to their business, opting for a subtle online release rather than a high-profile announcement. This method allows the pieces to speak for themselves and resonates with an audience that appreciates refined aesthetics and exclusive offerings. The integration of vintage furniture into their existing homeware offerings suggests a natural evolution for the brand, reinforcing its holistic vision for a well-curated lifestyle. #TheRow #VintageFurniture #LuxuryDesign #Homeware #InteriorDesign #CharlottePerriand #LouisSognot #GuillermeEtChambron

In 2017, Snarkitecture and Gufram collaborated on the 'Broken' series, which featured mirrors and a bench with frames that appeared stone-like but were actually made of polyurethane and coated in concrete-looking Guflac paint. This innovative use of materials created an ambiguous mix of hard appearance and unexpected softness in their initial collection. Now, the Italian radical design brand Gufram and the experimental New York architecture and design studio Snarkitecture have revisited this collection, introducing a new edition of furniture in a pastel pink shade. The inspiration for this new color came from classic bubblegum, chosen to add a fresh layer of playfulness to the 'Broken' series. This specific shade of pink was meticulously developed over the last year in close collaboration with the Gufram team. The newly colored 'Broken' bench by Snarkitecture for Gufram and the 'Broken' mirror are central to this updated collection. This pink furniture collection was specifically created for a special display at K11 Musea in Hong Kong. K11 Musea, inaugurated in 2019 by Adrian Cheng, serves as both a retail and art venue. For its annual 'Art Karnival' event, Gufram exclusively presented an immersive, all-pink showcase to debut this new color palette for their collaboration with Snarkitecture. The event provided a unique platform to highlight the playful and innovative nature of the revisited collection. Accompanying the full-sized pink furniture pieces, a collection of 'Guframini' was also launched in the same bubblegum pink shade. These 'Guframini' are miniature versions of some of Gufram’s most iconic radical design classics, including the 'Bocca' sofa and the 'Cactus' coat stand. These miniature versions were exclusively created for the K11 Musea event, further expanding the pink theme across their product range. Charley Vezza, Gufram’s global creative orchestrator, explained the choice of pink. He noted that Gufram had never previously released a product in this color. For the 'Broken' series, pink was a significant departure from Snarkitecture's usual black and white palette, signifying a deliberate and well-considered color choice. The decision to use pink was a simple yet bold one, encapsulated by the question, 'Pink… why not?' The collaboration highlights Gufram's legacy of radical design and Snarkitecture's experimental approach, demonstrating how a change in color can recontextualize and inject new life into an established collection. #Snarkitecture #Gufram #FurnitureDesign #PinkFurniture #RadicalDesign #ProductCollaboration #DesignExhibition #K11Musea #InteriorDesign

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

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

The article highlights a growing trend away from mass-produced items towards unique, handcrafted furniture and home decor pieces that emphasize creativity, craft, and time-honored techniques. It showcases 15 such items from various global makers, positioning them as collectible interiors pieces that are worth investing in now for their potential to become future design classics. The featured items begin with a modern take on a classic: the Canopy Armchair from Marchmont Workshop, a handcrafted stickback chair inspired by woodlands and priced at £3,600. This piece reflects a return to traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary aesthetic. Following this, the article introduces hand-painted lampshades by Spanish artist-designer Alvaro Picardo, which can be custom-matched to interior paintwork and wallpaper using Farrow & Ball paints, starting from £110. These lampshades are presented as artistic finishing touches for living spaces. Another innovative item is the Vine Vase by Wobbly Digital, a Glasgow-based artist who creates eccentric 3D-printed objects from recycled and bioplastics, priced at £350. This vase is noted for its viral potential, akin to the popular Gluggle Jug, and is recommended for dried flowers only. Scarlett Farrer, a rising star in hand weaving, is featured for her rustic textiles, specifically wall hangings made from undyed British wool. Her work, ranging from £250 to £1,800, gained recognition after she won the 2024 Young Weaver of the Year award. The article then presents a statement chair designed by Esto Estudio in Madrid, which combines a tubular steel frame with vibrant orange fabric, blurring the lines between furniture and sculpture, starting from approximately £800. Rich Miller, a ceramic artist and judge on 'The Great Pottery Throw Down,' offers unique cone-shaped pendant lights inspired by antique sugar cones, each priced at £2,425. These lights explore the history of the sugar trade and Miller's cultural ancestry. Sustainability is a key theme, exemplified by Jacob Marks' resin lamps, made from pine resin, with the Red RF Lamp I priced at £730. These lamps were a highlight at the London Design Festival for their use of unusual sustainable materials. Xanthe Somers, a Zimbabwean ceramic artist, contributes surrealist stoneware from her 'Sisters Toil' series, which explores women's work and crafts, with pieces ranging from £6,500 to £9,000. Loney Abrams and Johnny Stanish of Wretched Flowers create mesh murals and chain mail lamps, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as museum archives and medieval armor. These shimmering wall hangings are available on application. James Shaw's sustainable seat, priced at £2,000, is crafted from recycled plastic waste like milk cartons and shampoo bottles, transforming discarded materials into unique, organic forms. The master plasterers Ffion and Steven Blench, known as Chalk Plaster, produce marbled, fluted sidetables using scagliola, a 16th-century technique imitating marble, priced at £7,800. Freya Bramble-Carter, a ceramicist, offers wheel-thrown pots in earthy shades, blending traditional techniques with an expressive approach, starting from £900. Maria Sigma, a textile designer and weaver, focuses on zero-waste wares using natural, often undyed, fibers for her throws and cushions, with her 'Apricity' throw priced at £890, though it has an eight to ten-week waiting period. Joe Sweeney's terracotta stoneware butter dish, priced at £300, is described as a charming and functional addition to the breakfast table. Emsie Sharp, a glassblower, presents candy-colored drinking glasses made in her Dorset studio, priced at £38 each, as a modern alternative for smart dinner tables. Finally, the article highlights Matthew Raw's tiled bedside table from his 'Welcome' collection, inspired by tiled facades of train stations and buildings. These pieces, featuring handcrafted and glazed tiles, are priced at £5,180 for a sidetable with a drawer, indicating a growing presence in contemporary home design. #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #HandcraftedItems #SustainableDesign #CollectibleArt #InteriorDesignTrends #Craftsmanship #ArtisanalProducts #LuxuryInteriors

SolidNature, a Dutch stone supplier known for collaborating with architects and designers on custom projects, frequently accumulates offcuts from its high-profile commissions. Recognizing the potential in these leftover materials, the company engaged Budde, a design studio based in Cologne, Germany, to explore innovative ways to repurpose them. This collaboration resulted in the creation of 'Five x Seven,' a limited-edition furniture collection comprising five distinct tables: a console, and various coffee and side tables. The Budde studio, led by founders Johannes Budde and Meike Papenfuss, developed a concept that showcases the inherent beauty and variety of natural stone. The collection utilizes seven different types of stone, including marble, onyx, granite, and travertine, sourced from SolidNature's inventory of offcuts. Each table is meticulously crafted by combining slabs of these diverse stones, which are then layered together to create a visual effect reminiscent of sedimentary rock formations. A distinctive design element of the collection is a slim, carved arch integrated into all four sides of each piece. The layered construction of the tables results in muted stripes of cream, pink, green, and gray, offering a dynamic aesthetic that changes depending on the viewing angle. This design approach not only highlights the unique characteristics and rich color palette of each stone type but also addresses the issue of material waste by transforming what would otherwise be discarded into valuable and aesthetically pleasing furniture. The 'Five x Seven' collection is presented as a limited edition, emphasizing its exclusivity and artisanal nature. However, SolidNature also offers the possibility of custom pieces, allowing clients to commission tables tailored to their specific preferences and design needs, further expanding the collection's adaptability and appeal. The collection is exclusively available through the Rossana Orlandi Gallery, a renowned platform for contemporary design that champions innovative and sustainable practices. The partnership with Rossana Orlandi underscores the collection's artistic merit and its place within the high-end design market. By transforming remnants into sophisticated furniture, the 'Five x Seven' collection demonstrates a commitment to sustainable design principles while celebrating the enduring appeal and versatility of natural stone. #furnitureDesign #naturalStone #SolidNature #BuddeStudio #tableCollection #sustainableDesign #RossanaOrlandiGallery #interiorDecor #materialInnovation

This comprehensive guide explores the thriving vintage and antiques scene across the Twin Cities, offering an insider's look into numerous shops, their specialties, and notable locations. The article highlights the enduring appeal of vintage shopping, presenting various categories of stores to suit diverse tastes and interior design needs. The 'Boutique Experience' section introduces highly curated shops with distinct focuses. Claire Steyaert Antiques and Design is noted for fine antiques and exquisite vintage wares, serving discerning interior designers and a well-heeled clientele with furniture and home décor. J. Atelier, a collaborative venture, offers an eclectic mix of new and old furniture and homewares with an emphasis on French flea market style. Antiques Bel Air is recognized as a long-standing gem for classic antiques, including paintings, vintage posters, china, glassware, sterling silver, old toys, lighting, and home furnishings. XII Vultures stands out with its museum-like atmosphere, showcasing unique curiosities such as taxidermy, ostrich eggs, mammal skeletons, and porcupine quills. Anthony Scornavacco Antiques features a personal collection of 17th-, 18th-, and 19th-century European antiques, fine art, furniture, chandeliers, china, and silver, particularly emphasizing European-made holiday décor. For those drawn to a '70s aesthetic, the guide points to specific stores. Carousel and Folk is praised for its curated collection of leafy plants, modern giftables, handwoven baskets, vintage rattan furniture, rugs, textiles, and cheeky home décor. E’s Emporium offers a range from the 1950s to the 1980s, with a strong focus on '70s décor, including rattan and wicker furniture, bold colors, and macramé. Southside Vintage provides an ever-changing inventory of patterned furniture, vintage books, tabletop items, and curated tchotchkes, accessible during planned open weekends. The area around 50th and Xerxes in South Minneapolis is highlighted as a powerful vintage shopping hub. A Rare Bird, run by owner Kelly Wallace, features curated art with European flair, garden goods, and furniture spanning various aesthetics. Clarabel, operated by Clara Domisch, offers antiques and vintage finds with an emphasis on ornate details and design. Hunt and Gather is described as a vast, overwhelming, and eclectic space filled with unique and unusual items, spanning 8,500 square feet. Loft Antiques, a co-op with 15 dealers, provides a comprehensive assortment of home accessories, decorations, and furniture across 4,500 square feet. Michael’s Lamp Studio has been a resource for vintage and antique lighting for 50 years, also offering rewiring and shade services. Queenie and Pearl features a rotating selection of vintage fashion on its upper floor. Victory, located in Linden Hills, presents an eclectic blend of glass chandeliers, chinoiserie ginger jars, rococo mirrors, brass candlesticks, vintage jewelry, leather-bound books, and perfume bottles. The guide also delves into stores specializing in 'Midcentury & Danish' design, attributing this trend to Minnesota’s Scandinavian influence. Danish Teak Classics in Northeast’s Northrup King Building offers interior design services alongside buying, renting, restoring, and selling Scandinavian furniture. FindFurnish, known for its strong Instagram presence, consistently stocks and restores midcentury finds. Golden Age Design in Robbinsdale provides Danish teak furniture, locally made candles, unique prints, and vintage glassware, with a 'To Be Restored' section for DIY enthusiasts. Haus Theory in White Bear Lake focuses on new and vintage furniture, art, and homewares, also offering plants. Excelsior is presented as a charming downtown area with a curated selection of antique stores. The Country Look In Antiques, established in 1979, focuses on an authentic heritage aesthetic reflective of the Lake Minnetonka culture, featuring maps, oil paintings, and nautical wares. Leipold’s Gifts and Antiques offers a mix of antiques, gifting wares, and local historical items. The Vintage Loft specializes in repurposing vintage pieces with custom paint and design, reflecting a cottage-chic vibe. Fairview & Selby in St. Paul is identified as a destination for storied treasures. Eastwood Gallery features mission- and modern-style design pieces from leading manufacturers and indie artists. The Mall of St. Paul is a large multiple-dealer shop offering a vast array of goods for those who enjoy the hunt. The Missouri Mouse, with approximately 50 vendors, provides a well-arranged selection of country, cabin, Americana, midcentury furniture, décor, costume jewelry, and Scandinavian antiques. Peter’s Oldies but Goodies focuses on large-scale furniture and hosts online auctions. Succotash specializes in '50s, '60s, and '70s furniture, art, glass, clothing, records, and lamps, embodying a retro aesthetic. Hopkins Mainstreet offers a convenient cluster of antique shops. Antiques on Mainstreet is a classic multi-dealer mall with a lively mix of goods, including table linens and cabin décor. Blake Antiques provides a more spacious, light-filled environment with classic and curated pieces. Hopkins Antique Mall features seasoned dealers specializing in particular wares on the first floor, with furniture pieces displayed in the basement. Pink Elephant Vintage and Antiques offers a playful selection across two floors from multiple dealers, including vintage vinyl. Finally, Stillwater, a charming waterside town, is recommended for a day trip. American Gothic Antiques offers art, décor, serving pieces, pottery, toys, books, and glassware. Black Letter Books specializes in used and rare books. Let There Be Light Antiques provides antique lighting, restoration, and repair services. Midtown Antique Mall features a wide range of collectibles, from coins to furniture. Reclaiming Beautiful focuses on repurposed vintage jewelry, home décor, and furniture. Staples Mill Antiques offers furniture, toys, jewelry, records, and décor. Stillwater Antiques Mall includes art, furniture, stationery, watches, coins, and collectibles. The article concludes by emphasizing the rich variety and unique character of vintage and antique shopping experiences available throughout the Twin Cities. #VintageShopping #Antiques #TwinCities #HomeDecor #MidcenturyModern #Furniture #LocalShops #InteriorDesign #RetroVibe

The article introduces RH Modern, Restoration Hardware's first freestanding retail platform, located on Beverly. This new concept is described as a minimalist haven, offering a fresh and refined aesthetic that departs from Restoration Hardware's traditional antique-minded style. The gallery integrates sophisticated design elements and aims to provide inspiration for home, office, and patio spaces. Upon entering, guests are greeted by contemporary art, specifically two massive Retna pieces, setting a modern tone. The interior design features luxurious yet understated room presentations, creating an immersive experience. The architectural and design choices highlight a commitment to modernism, evident in details such as palm tree-clad terraces and carefully curated displays. Key design features of RH Modern include the extensive use of rich brass and bronze hardware, adding a touch of elegance and warmth. Glass and aged mirrors are incorporated to enhance light and space, while platform and canopy beds offer contemporary bedroom solutions. Oversized ottomans and sofas and sectionals with integrated accent tables provide functional and stylish seating arrangements, promoting both comfort and modern living. The lighting in RH Modern is characterized by dramatic sculptural fixtures, which serve as focal points and artistic statements. Floating lounge chairs and vanities further contribute to the minimalist and sophisticated ambiance, creating a sense of lightness and openness. The material palette emphasizes luxurious leathers and a blend of rustic and refined woods, demonstrating a versatile approach to texture and finish. Gary Friedman, RH chairman and CEO, credits the collaborative effort of numerous talented individuals from various creative fields for bringing RH Modern to fruition. He highlights the contributions of artists, artisans, art directors, architects, designers, photographers, merchants, and manufacturers from around the globe, each contributing their unique perspective. Friedman specifically acknowledges Fabien Baron for his work in blurring the lines between a magazine and a catalog, thereby establishing a contemporary and revolutionary brand identity across RH Modern's Source Book, website, and advertising campaigns. The RH Modern Gallery is positioned as a source of next-level inspiration for those looking to enhance their living and working environments with modern design. The gallery's operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm. #RHModern #RestorationHardware #ModernDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BeverlyHills #LuxuryFurniture #RetailDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation