Sabine Marcelis creates rainbow of furniture for Vitra Design Museum

Dutch designer Sabine Marcelis has transformed the VitraHaus Loft in Weil am Rhein, Germany, with a vibrant and innovative installation that redefines living spaces through a bold color scheme. This project is a continuation of Marcelis's previous collaboration with the Vitra Design Museum, which included the 2022 'Colour Rush!' exhibition. The current installation on the top floor of the VitraHaus mirrors the design philosophy of Marcelis's own home, featuring a large open space divided into distinct zones, each characterized by a unique color palette. Her approach integrates her own designs with artworks from other artists and iconic Vitra furniture pieces. Till Weber, Vitra’s Creative Director of Interiors & Scenography, highlights the VitraHaus Loft as an ideal setting to showcase the versatility of Vitra furniture. He commends Marcelis's use of natural, organic hues that create a harmonious interaction between the various zones without demanding perfect matches. The design prioritizes a warm, home-like ambiance through a thoughtful layering of design elements and diverse materials, moving away from a traditional gallery aesthetic. Upon entering the loft, visitors encounter a spacious living room bathed in a cool mint green. This area features a distinctive lounge setup conceptualized by Marcelis, utilizing Jasper Morrison’s Soft Modular Sofa to form an inviting, enveloping pit, designed for relaxation, film viewing, and appreciating scenic views. Marcelis's installation employs seven primary colors, each purposefully assigned to a specific zone. For instance, a soft pink defines the bathroom, which includes a custom pale pink onyx unit that captivates with its elegance and light-reflecting properties. Marcelis notes that the chosen colors are personal favorites, selected for their timeless quality and her enduring appreciation for them, a philosophy she believes is crucial for creating a personal home. Her exploration of Vitra's extensive catalog led her to Danish designer Verner Panton. Coinciding with the VitraHaus Loft's unveiling, Marcelis has reinterpreted Panton's iconic Panton Chair Classic (1959) and Visiona Stool (1970), incorporating them into the installation and releasing them as limited editions. Each piece aligns with the loft’s color scheme, with the Visiona Stool featuring various upholstery finishes, including faux fur, leather, and other materials, across the seven colors. Christian Grosen, Vitra’s Chief Design Officer, praised Marcelis’s reinterpretations of Panton’s works, emphasizing the timelessness of Panton’s designs. He believes that the Panton Chair Classic, while echoing its 1960s origins and innovative production techniques, remains highly relevant today, especially with Marcelis’s use of color, which offers a fresh perception of the chair. A significant aspect of Marcelis’s vision for a homely environment within the VitraHaus Loft is the inclusion of artworks and design elements from outside the Vitra collection. This collaborative approach features artists such as Maria Pratts, Johnny Mae Hauser, Carlijn Jacobs, and Berlin-based pattern designer Ehsan Morshed, who has also created special edition printed bedsheets for purchase. Grosen underscores Vitra’s philosophy that its products achieve their full potential when integrated into a collage with other objects, reinforcing the idea that Vitra is not the sole answer but a vital component of a broader design narrative. The reimagined Panton Chair Classics and Visiona Stools are available in limited quantities at the VitraHaus and vitra.com, with specific availability details for the United States. #SabineMarcelis #VitraHaus #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FurnitureDesign #VernerPanton #LimitedEdition #ModernDesign #DesignInstallation

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

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 article presents room design ideas from maximalist expert Abigail Ahern, focusing on creating personalized and character-filled homes. Ahern, known for her 'more is more' philosophy, encourages bold color palettes, luxurious textiles, diverse patterns, and embellishments, contrasting with minimalist aesthetics. Her new book, *Everything*, serves as a guide for individuals to express their personalities through home design, especially relevant given the increased time spent indoors. Ahern emphasizes the importance of incorporating tactile textures to add depth and interest to a space. She suggests mixing various textures, such as shaggy rugs, metallic accents, woolly cushions, and fluffy throws, to create friction and visual richness. A key principle highlighted is the 'golden rule' of repetition, where any single texture should be used at least three times within a space to ensure cohesion and harmony. This approach helps prevent a room from feeling disjointed and contributes to a well-integrated maximalist design. Regarding color, Ahern advocates for intuition over apprehension, particularly when considering dark hues for smaller rooms. She advises against seeking external opinions, as color choices often provoke fear in others, and encourages designers to trust their own instincts. To inject vitality into predictable spaces, she recommends introducing a few colors that seemingly deviate from the main palette, thereby infusing the room with unexpected life and energy. For furniture arrangement, Ahern prioritizes traffic flow but advises against overthinking it. The primary goal is to ensure ease of movement without obstruction. A distinctive tip from Ahern is to float furniture in the middle of a room, even in compact spaces, to foster intimate conversation areas. She argues that pushing furniture against walls can make a room feel institutional, akin to a waiting room, and encourages regular rearrangement to revitalize the home's ambiance. Lighting plays a crucial role in transforming a dull space into a cozy retreat. While acknowledging the vast array of styles, Ahern prefers lighting fixtures that complement existing decor rather than overtly standing out. She specifically recommends investing in table lamps, which can either blend with the room's style or serve as an interesting focal point. Mixing two different table lamps with similar colors or geometric shapes can introduce visual symmetry. For dramatic effect and definition, pendants are suggested. Layering materials is another essential technique for creating depth. Ahern advises against matching materials too closely, such as a grey ceramic coffee table with a grey concrete floor, instead suggesting a marble alternative. Incorporating rustic elements like rattan or cane and blending shiny with matte finishes adds complexity. For a cozy atmosphere, the article highlights the warmth of wood, with finer grains offering formality and larger grains providing a casual feel, or a combination of both for a richer effect. To avoid a monotonous, catalogue-like appearance, Ahern stresses the importance of varying heights and scales within a room. She suggests combining tall and short, thin and plump items, such as placing a small chair next to a larger table. Oversized lamps or sculptures can serve as captivating focal points, creating visual interest without clutter. The article emphasizes that grand gestures often yield the most mesmerizing results. Finally, the article underscores the need to inject personality through pattern. Homes should reflect their occupants' individuality. Creating a gallery wall with beloved prints, or clustering patterned cushions on a solid-colored sofa, are immediate ways to add dimension. For those feeling more adventurous, mixing patterns through rugs and wallpapered walls is encouraged, combining graphic with organic elements or leopard print with florals. Incorporating diverse cultural influences can also create a fascinating design. To maintain an eclectic yet cohesive look, linking motifs, scales, and colors is crucial. #AbigailAhern #MaximalistDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RoomDesign #TexturalElements #ColorTheory #FurnitureArrangement #LightingDesign #PatternMixing

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

This design dispatch highlights several key happenings and product releases in the world of interior design and art, focusing on the transition into a new season. It begins by exploring RH's Fall 2023 Collection, which aims to redefine true luxury in a market often saturated with superficial claims. Gary Friedman, CEO and chairman of RH, emphasizes that true luxury stems from exceptional craftsmanship and the quality of materials, citing their use of premium European and American White Oak, Walnut, Indonesian Teak, and the detailed construction of their American-made sofas with eight-way hand-tied springs or Italian-made pieces with engineered foam and exquisite tailoring designed for longevity. The collection features global designers like Australian duo Harrison and Nicholas Condos, who contribute natural pieces in European White Oak, including sideboards, bed canopies, and day beds. British designer Oliver Oulton incorporates Belgian Flax Linens into elongated sofas, while American designer Julie Lawrence introduces organically shaped sideboards and tables made from American White Oak. The aesthetic of the collection promotes serenity through light woods and organic lines, devoid of harsh angles and vibrant colors, encapsulating the idea that luxury is defined by thought, creativity, and rarity rather than just price. Next, the dispatch turns to the art world, detailing an opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire a piece from the renowned artist Cecily Brown. For over 25 years, Brown has been celebrated for her abstract expressionist style, with her paintings, often featuring motifs of women, skulls, skeletons, and still-lives, fetching high prices at auctions. Currently, The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is hosting "Cecily Brown: Death and The Maid" until December 3, 2023. This exhibition showcases fifty works from her career. For those wishing to own a piece of Brown's art, a new etching inspired by Jan Brueghel the Elder's 17th-century allegorical series, "The Five Senses," will be available at The Met Store. Edition one of twenty-five will join The Met's collection, with others priced at $8,000, with proceeds supporting the museum's initiatives. The article also introduces a new book from Bulgari, "Beyond Time," celebrating over a century of Bulgari horology. This collaboration with Assouline provides a comprehensive retrospective across 300 pages, featuring contributions from notable friends, ambassadors, and experts of the Maison. A dedicated chapter explores the brand's iconic serpent watch design, which watch collector John Goldberger notes was revolutionary for its combination of wraparound Tubas bracelet with a watch dial. Finally, as the fall season approaches, the dispatch offers a suggestion for entertaining: Sophie Lou Jacobsen's new stemware collection. Inspired by Art Nouveau motifs and the Ecole de Nancy, the collection features glasses morphed into floral designs. While playful, the set maintains an air of sophistication, making it suitable for formal gatherings. The collection is set to launch in October, and readers are encouraged to consider complementary table accessories in preparation for upcoming events. #DesignDispatch #HomeDecor #LuxuryDesign #RHCollection #ArtExhibition #CecilyBrown #MetropolitanMuseumOfArt #BulgariHorology #SophieLouJacobsen #TablewareDesign

The Danish company Notes has introduced a novel approach to the paint industry, simplifying the often-complex process of selecting paint colors. The company emerged from the observation that traditional paint brands present an overwhelming array of choices, making it difficult for consumers, designers, and architects to make informed decisions. Notes addresses this by offering a curated palette of 40 colors, which are carefully selected to embody Scandinavian aesthetic principles of simplicity and minimalism. The core philosophy behind Notes is to provide a foolproof color selection experience. The brand works with leading creatives in design and architecture to develop a cohesive and harmonious color palette, ensuring that any combination of their colors will result in an aesthetically pleasing outcome. This simplification is intended to empower individuals to confidently define the mood and aesthetic of their living spaces, highlighting that true freedom often stems from straightforward solutions. The brand's catalog serves as a source of inspiration, enhancing color awareness and demonstrating the profound impact color has on setting the emotional and intellectual ambiance of a home. Notes operates exclusively through an online shop, designed for ease of use and accessibility. The website features an editorial section where interior designers and stylists share their insights and experiences, providing guidance and inspiration for individual color choices. The online platform facilitates shade matching and combinations through clear examples and explanations, aiming to ensure optimal results for users. To further support customers, Notes offers free sample kits and a comprehensive tools section, supplying everything needed for a painting project, including brushes, primers, dust sheets, and tapes. Beyond aesthetics and user-friendliness, Notes places a strong emphasis on product quality and sustainability. The company offers a thick-textured paint formulated to provide a matte, uniform, and long-lasting finish, distinguished by its unique pigments. From an environmental perspective, the paint is water-based, features low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content, and is certified with both the EU Ecolabel and the Swan Ecolabel, underscoring the brand’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. The brand's innovative approach was showcased at the Milan Design Week 2023 as part of the “This is Denmark” exhibition, which highlighted how contemporary Danish creators interpret national heritage values through modern design. This exhibition featured 15 selected objects, with Notes demonstrating a practical and thoughtful application of Danish design principles to everyday home improvement. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PaintIndustry #ScandinavianDesign #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign #MilanDesignWeek #OnlineShopping

Mark Mitchell's 'Sunbeam Side Table' is a conceptual piece of furniture designed to replicate the visual phenomenon of sunbeams radiating through clouds, despite the parallel nature of actual sunlight. This design draws inspiration from the optical illusion that makes distant sun rays appear to converge from a single point in the sky. The product, crafted from Botticino marble in collaboration with Serafini, is intended to evoke the sense of mystery and wonder associated with this natural occurrence. The side table features intricate carvings that allow its spruce wood surface to interlock with the marble base without the need for adhesives, demonstrating a blend of aesthetic appeal and thoughtful construction. The design's functionality is highlighted by its ability to split light from an overhead spotlight through its wooden fins, projecting a sunbeam pattern onto the angled marble surface below. This interaction of light and material is central to the table's purpose, creating a dynamic visual experience for the user. Mitchell emphasizes that the design goes beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to tell a story and enhance user experience through its narrative qualities. The 'Sunbeam Side Table' is described as a totemic product, reflecting the designer's intent to capture and share moments of natural beauty within a functional object. The choice of Botticino marble for its fabrication underscores the product's luxurious and refined character, while the detailed craftsmanship by Serafini artisans ensures its high quality. The design process is deeply influenced by Mitchell's characteristic approach, which integrates poetry, wanderlust, and romance into his creations, whether they are products, spaces, or experiences. This side table is a testament to his ability to translate abstract natural phenomena into tangible, artful furniture. The piece serves not only as a functional item but also as a conversation starter, inviting contemplation on the interplay between nature, perception, and design. #FurnitureDesign #ConceptDesign #InnovationDesign #InteriorDesign #MarkMitchell #BotticinoMarble #Serafini #LightInteraction #EtherealMoments

Petra, a new showroom founded by Monica Khemsurov, co-founder of Sight Unseen, made its debut at NYCxDESIGN, introducing a curated collection of artistic hardware. The brand aims to revitalize the popularity of sculptural hardware designs, drawing inspiration from Khemsurov's observations during her travels. Petra focuses on offering select boutique hardware pieces and exclusive, commissioned works from independent designers, emphasizing architectural detail and artistry. The inaugural collection features hardware from 27 designers and brands, providing solutions for various applications including cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, door handles, switch plates, appliance handles, curtain tiebacks, and towel bars. A notable inclusion in this debut is a new line of hardware from designer Pamela Love, which showcases hand-carved cabinet knobs in organic forms such as eyes, pomegranates, and urns. The collection also highlights historical designs through licensed reproductions from BD Barcelona, featuring knobs and handles originally crafted by Antoni Gaudí for buildings constructed between 1902 and 1910, as well as Salvador Dali’s intricate 1937 Rinoceróntico door handle. Petra distinguishes itself through its commitment to expressive hardware, both in aesthetic and conceptual terms. The brand's offerings largely consist of small-batch, handmade fixtures designed to serve as distinctive elements within interior spaces, differentiating them from mass-market options. While some pieces function as elevated basics, many are intended to be statement pieces, reflecting a fusion of art and functionality in everyday hardware. The initiative seeks to elevate the role of hardware in interior design, transforming utilitarian objects into points of artistic expression and focal points within a room. The curated selection suggests a move towards hardware that not only performs its function but also contributes significantly to the overall design narrative of a space. #NYCxDESIGN #ArtisticHardware #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #MonicaKhemsurov #PamelaLove #SculpturalDesign #DesignerHardware

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

This article explores how to add a playful and personal touch to living room interiors through the use of colourful and quirky accent furniture. While appreciating minimalist aesthetics, the piece emphasizes the importance of decorative details to make a house feel more like a home. It suggests that accent pieces, such as side tables or smaller decorative items, can easily introduce a dose of fun and can be swapped out as needed. The article then presents a curated selection of 12 furniture and decor items, each drawing inspiration from candies, macarons, and other confectionery, offering readers unique ways to brighten their living spaces. One of the highlighted items is the Hem Boa pouf by Sabine Marcelis, a doughnut-shaped seating option available in pastel hues, featuring an innovative shape-knit textile for a smooth finish. Another distinctive piece is the Tavolo Morbido Swirl table by Studio Mignone, which boasts a triple-tone concrete top reminiscent of lollipops and chocolate candy, supported by chubby legs and available in limited editions. The Foscarini Binic table lamp by Ionna Vautrin is showcased for its compact size and six candy-like colours, making it a versatile addition to any room. The article also features the Cloud stool by Singaporean designer Karyn Lim, recognized for its ombre finish and rounded edges that evoke the image of popsicles. The Slide Gelée pouf by Roberto Paoli is presented as a jelly-like, playful addition, with lounge chairs and coffee tables in a similar form also available. For those with a sweet tooth, the Akar de Nissim Macaron coffee table, inspired by the French pastry, offers a hollow center for storage and a glossy lacquered finish. Smaller decorative items include the Bonbonniere glass dish with lid by Helle Mardahl, ideal for storing candies and serving as a sculptural piece. Seating options also extend to the Marshmallow sofa by Kam Kam, which features a twisted shape made from skein yarn and soft wool, providing both structural strength and a striking design. Lighting is covered by the Lasvit Lollipop lamp by Boris Klimek, which uses slumped glass techniques to mimic the appearance of lollipops. Artistic elements are also suggested, such as the "Candy Series p.07" print by South Korean artist Koo Seong Youn, depicting candy flowers against a millennial pink background, perfect for adding whimsical flair. The Jonathan Adler Globo bookends, with L-shaped brass bases supporting candy-toned acrylic orbs, offer a playful touch to display shelves. Finally, the Bocci 87 pendant lights are described as pearlescent, taffy-like fixtures that resemble spun candy, designed to create a lively focal point, available as wall lamps or pendant lights for individual or grouped display. Each item is presented with details on its design, materials, and availability, providing comprehensive inspiration for homeowners looking to inject personality into their living rooms. #HomeDesign #Furniture #LivingRoom #Decor #DesignInspo #InteriorDesign #Quirky #Whimsical #SpaceFurniture #AccentPieces #SabineMarcelis #StudioMignone #IonnaVautrin #KarynLim #RobertoPaoli #AkarDeNissim #HelleMardahl #KamKam #BorisKlimek #KooSeongYoun #JonathanAdler #Bocci

Susan Alexandra, known for its vibrant and beaded accessories, has opened a new store in New York City's Lower East Side, offering a colorful and whimsical retail experience. The store's design, spearheaded by founder Susan Korn in collaboration with Lula Galeano of Studio Galeon and Levi Shaw-Faber of Wiggle Room, transforms the space into a 'pigmented oasis' that draws inspiration from playful, retro aesthetics like '80s roller rinks, watermelons, and bananas. This design ethos extends beyond a mere shopping destination, providing a source of innovative and bold home decor inspiration that can be adapted for various personal styles. The store's exterior immediately captures attention with its bright yellow facade, setting the tone for the interior's vibrant color palette and unique architectural elements. One notable feature is the beaded banana door handle, a whimsical detail that exemplifies the brand's playful approach. Inside, the design incorporates several distinct elements that can be translated into residential settings. For instance, colored-glass bricks are used to create custom archways, room partitions, and corner tables, introducing a burst of color and a disco-like ambiance while minimizing the need for traditional wall hangings. This approach suggests an alternative to conventional wall decor, using structural elements to infuse color and light into a space. Another design technique highlighted in the store is color-blocking the ceiling and the top quarter of the walls, a concept referred to as 'Accent Wall 2.0.' This method creates a dynamic feel in any room and can be further enhanced by painting accent shelves and cubby spaces to match, integrating storage with the overall color scheme. The use of mosaics, described as a supersized version of Susan Alexandra's beaded bags, is prevalent throughout the store. Multicolored tiles in various shapes and sizes are employed to craft custom images and patterns, effectively embedding visuals directly into the walls, offering a creative alternative to wallpaper or paint for personalization. Lighting also plays a significant role in the store's design, featuring bespoke elements such as giant fruit sconces and intricate beaded chandeliers. While these are custom creations, the article suggests that antique and modern lighting fixtures can serve a similar purpose in residential interiors, introducing interesting colors and silhouettes that act as bold decorative choices. An example provided is the Matin wall sconce from Hay, illustrating how specific lighting pieces can contribute to a space's overall aesthetic. These design choices collectively offer a blueprint for homeowners looking to incorporate vivid colors, unique textures, and playful elements into their living spaces, moving away from neutral palettes toward more expressive and personalized interiors. #StoreDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorBlocking #MosaicTiles #LightingDesign #RetailSpace #SusanAlexandra #NewYorkCity

The article highlights nine iconic pieces of furniture, traditionally attributed primarily to male designers, revealing the significant contributions of women to their creation. It challenges the historical perception of furniture design as a male-dominated field, emphasizing that women often pioneered functional and aesthetically pleasing designs, partly due to their intimate understanding of home environments. The piece begins with Charlotte Perriand, an idealist who enrolled in Paris’ Central Union of Decorative Arts school in the 1920s as one of the first women to study furniture design. Despite an initial rejection from Le Corbusier, her innovative tubular steel furniture quickly earned her a place in his studio, leading to her co-design of the LC4 Chaise Longue in 1928, alongside Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret. This piece is recognized for its adjustable design and use of industrial materials, embodying modernist principles. The article then discusses Ray Eames's pivotal role in the Eames Lounge Chair (1956), a collaboration with her husband Charles Eames. This design, often solely credited to Charles, is presented as the culmination of years of work in molded plywood, advanced through a U.S. government contract during World War II. Florence Knoll's namesake Knoll Sofa (1956) is featured as a design born from necessity, addressing the need for versatile furniture that suited both residential and commercial spaces, and known for its clean lines and timeless appeal. Nanna Ditzel's Hanging Egg Chair (1959) is celebrated for its unique form and challenge to traditional notions of practicality and beauty, cementing her status as "The Grand Dame of Danish Design." Eileen Gray's Bibendum Chair (1926) is introduced as a politically charged design, serving as her feminist response to Le Corbusier's 'Grand Confort.' Inspired by the Michelin tire company's mascot, the chair features rounded, upholstered forms over a tubular steel base, blending Art Deco glamour with industrial modernism. Lilly Reich's often-overlooked collaboration on the Barcelona Chair (1929) with Mies van der Rohe is also brought to light. This elegant design, drawing inspiration from ancient Egyptian folding stools, signified luxury and status, with its graceful curves departing from earlier modernist efficiency. Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky's Frankfurt Kitchen (1926) is presented as a revolutionary contribution, transforming kitchen design with a focus on efficiency and hygiene. Designed for social housing, it featured built-in storage and thoughtful material choices, empowering women by streamlining household tasks. Lina Bo Bardi's Bowl Chair (1951) is recognized for its playful aesthetics and ergonomic design, with a semi-spherical seat that can be adjusted for varying comfort. Finally, Zaha Hadid's Z-Chair (2011) showcases a futuristic and fluid design crafted from bent aluminum, illustrating her bold architectural thinking translated into furniture. #FurnitureDesign #WomenInDesign #DesignClassics #MidCenturyModern #ModernistFurniture #InteriorDesignHistory #FemaleDesigners #IconicChairs #HomeDecor

Following his appointment as creative director at Celine, Hedi Slimane has swiftly implemented his vision, significantly transforming the luxury brand. His initiatives include removing the accent from the brand's 'e', introducing menswear lines, and reshaping womenswear. A cornerstone of this transformation is the global rollout of his new retail concept, driven by Celine's CEO Séverine Merle's strategy to expand the brand's footprint with larger flagship stores capable of showcasing the broadened menswear and womenswear collections. This expansion began in March with a 5,000 sq ft New York flagship and two new addresses in Paris: a remodelled two-storey space on rue de Grenelle for both menswear and womenswear, and the brand’s first dedicated menswear flagship on rue François 1er. By mid-April, new boutiques had opened in major cities including Tokyo, Shanghai, Los Angeles, Madrid, Milan, and London, with a Beijing store slated for later in the year. Each store, designed in collaboration with Celine’s in-house team, possesses a unique character while adhering to common design principles. A strong emphasis is placed on natural stone and bold materials, with massive, richly veined slabs of marble, granite, and travertine adorning walls, shelves, and columns. Basaltina lava stone covers the floors. These materials, with their contrasting patterns, are reflected in large mirrors and steel surfaces, creating a visually dynamic environment. Reclaimed oak, alongside wood and leather furniture, introduces warm brown accents that complement the sleek black-and-white palette. Many surfaces, such as the creamy Bianco Raffaello marble and ginger-veined black granite, are noted for their smooth, tactile qualities, inviting touch and offering a departure from the typical coldness associated with stone. Slimane's architectural style is characterized by rigorous lines, evident in the intersecting seams of concrete floors, parallel shelving, and rectangular metal displays. Despite this precision, the designs maintain a sense of weightlessness; display cases and shelves appear to hover, and materials, like brushed steel and Grande Antique marble, are positioned in close proximity without directly touching. This creates an effect of suspension and delicate interaction between elements. The stores also feature a new collection of furniture designed by Slimane, alongside vintage 1960s and 1970s pieces that highlight French woodworking. Slimane’s furniture, primarily made from light or dark plywood, is minimalist and evokes the simplicity of children's building blocks or primitive thrones, with future plans for retail. A significant aspect of the new concept is the Celine Art Project, which integrates contemporary artworks by established and emerging artists. These pieces, either acquired or commissioned, add another layer of sensory engagement; examples include Rindon Johnson’s yellowed rawhide cube wrapped in rope and Shawn Kuruneru’s ink-and-acrylic paintings that echo the marble patterns. The rue de Grenelle store's centerpiece is a site-specific installation by Oscar Tuazon, reflecting Slimane's commitment to combining global brand strategy with a passion for supporting young talent in music, art, and creativity. #HediSlimane #Celine #RetailDesign #LuxuryFashion #StoreArchitecture #InteriorDesign #MaterialSelection #ArtIntegration #FurnitureDesign

Emma Beryl Kemper, founder of Emma Beryl Interiors, shares her unique design philosophy focused on creating quietly layered, deeply livable, and timeless spaces. A graduate of the New York School of Interior Design, Kemper's approach emphasizes combining vintage finds, new items, and bespoke pieces to achieve a personalized and collected aesthetic. She intentionally avoids designing rooms that look 'fresh out of the box,' instead preferring elements with a sense of history that seamlessly integrate into the overall design. This method not only adds character but also helps manage project budgets. While not adhering to a specific vintage era, Kemper draws inspiration from her travels, focusing on patterns, color usage, and spatial details encountered in places like Portugal. Key to her design process is the incorporation of what she calls "emotional resonance." Kemper aims for spaces that feel uplifting and intriguing, with a goal that clients feel embraced by their homes. She encourages layering textures on walls and incorporating sensory elements like scented candles to enhance this emotional connection. Her portfolio frequently features natural materials such as stone and antique textiles, and she appreciates materials that age gracefully, avoiding anything that doesn't develop a rich patina over time. Sculptural lighting and unexpected art pieces are also staples in her designs, chosen for their delicate appearance and ability to add visual interest without being easily damaged. For lighting, she often selects sculptural glass, placing it out of reach to maintain its fragile beauty. Kemper's design journey has recently led her to embrace red as a surprising neutral, particularly terracotta or brick tones like Farrow & Ball's Red Earth. This color, which she once disliked in her childhood home, now offers warmth and comfort in her projects, used for painting walls or as a statement piece like a red velvet sofa. When discussing the most crucial detail for a house to feel like a home, she highlights comfortable furniture that allows for true relaxation, coupled with a sense of personal belonging. She stresses that a home should reflect its inhabitants, making it uniquely theirs. Her subtle yet impactful design trick, inspired by designer Beata Heuman, involves leaving room for future evolution. Kemper believes that a well-designed home should serve as a canvas, allowing inhabitants to continuously add new items and personal touches over time. This ensures the space remains dynamic and reflective of its occupants' evolving tastes and lives, rather than appearing rigidly 'finished.' Her approach centers on creating environments that are both functional and deeply personal, fostering a sense of warmth, curiosity, and comfort. In essence, Emma Beryl Kemper's design philosophy blends practicality with artistic intuition, ensuring that every space she creates is not only aesthetically pleasing but also resonates deeply with the individuals who inhabit it. Her emphasis on collected items, natural materials, thoughtful color choices, and adaptable designs contributes to homes that feel genuinely lived-in and cherished. #InteriorDesign #EmmaBerylKemper #DesignPhilosophy #HomeDecor #VintageFurniture #NaturalMaterials #ColorPalette #EmotionalDesign #TimelessDesign

Jessica Davis, founder of Atelier Davis and creative director of Nest Studio, shares her current design inspirations, which are heavily influenced by Miami's oceanside landscape and Art Deco architecture. Her approach blends sophistication with a playful whimsy, seeking a balance between intriguing elements and lighthearted touches. Davis draws specific inspiration from the pattern play found in Streamline Moderne buildings and the nautical motifs prevalent during the heyday of steamships. Her color palette, while acknowledging Miami's perpetually warm climate, incorporates grounding browns and moody blues to provide a sense of escape and depth. She describes these as "complex browns with purple or red undertones" and "inky tones that remind me of the turbulent ocean," ensuring they remain interesting despite their moodiness. To offset these deeper hues, she integrates naval-style elements, such as ropelike cord and hardware featuring porthole designs. This circular motif is subtly echoed in her choices of embroidered fabric and printed wallpaper, creating a cohesive visual theme. Davis highlights several specific items that embody her current aesthetic. For textiles, she selects Zak+Fox's Temari fabric for its Japanese-inspired feel and subtle yet provocative colors. Maharam's Firma fabric is chosen for its durability and intriguing weave, mixing blue and purple in a textural wool. The Kettlewell Collection's Vera fabric, a large-scale cotton patchwork, appeals to her for its compelling nature, while Knoll Textiles' Cato fabric in green provides an impactful and unexpected pop of chartreuse. Larsen at Cowtan & Tout's Tanago fabric in ivory is favored for its nubby, nautical texture and durability. In terms of hard surfaces and architectural elements, Davis is enthusiastic about Townsend Harbor Brown paint by Benjamin Moore, appreciating its rich, complex brown tones. She expresses a particular interest in sophisticated glass blocks, specifically the Thickset 90 Endura Glass Block by Seves Glass Block, moving beyond standard wavy 1980s styles. Adelphi Paper Hangings’ Viennese Trees wallpaper, a 1920s pattern, is admired for its blend of architectural and organic Art Deco aesthetics. For stone, she opts for Rosso Luana marble by ABC Stone, seeking a dark and moody, high-impact stone with significant movement, departing from white-background marbles. Custom metal samples with cooler finishes are also incorporated to add to a project's distinctiveness. Her own Nest Studio Aperture handle in waxed white oak is chosen for its integral yet interesting linear and minimal design, suitable for wood cabinets. The Shade Store’s Waterfall woven wood shade in Sienna Almond is included to introduce texture and soften interiors dominated by hard surfaces. A custom textured rug by Marc Phillips, made of wool, serves as a sophisticated yet durable base layer. Finally, nylon cord in gold and blue from Knot & Rope Supply offers a fun element for custom furnishings, and Bilbao tile by Bert & May provides a patterned, muted, and weathered floor option that feels both historic and contemporary. #InteriorDesign #JessicaDavis #AtelierDavis #NestStudio #MiamiInspired #ArtDeco #StreamlineModerne #MaterialSelection #ColorPalette