Scholten & Baijings' Ottoman daybed for Moroso "started with the textile"

Bouclé, a textured fabric known for its small loops, has experienced a significant resurgence in popularity, particularly in interior design and fashion. This versatile material, whose name derives from the French word for 'curl' or 'loop,' was originally made from looped yarn, typically wool. The loops impart a distinct texture, softness, and bulk to the finished cloth, contributing to its cozy and comforting aesthetic. The rise of bouclé can be largely attributed to mid-20th-century design luminaries. Florence Knoll, a pivotal figure in modern furniture design and co-owner of Knoll Associates, played a crucial role in elevating bouclé's status. Knoll, known for her uncompromising approach to design and her philosophy of creating rather than merely decorating spaces, sought a fabric that combined softness with durability. Her collaboration with Eero Saarinen, a childhood friend and frequent design partner, led to the creation of the iconic 'Womb' chair in the mid-1940s. Saarinen designed the chair to be a deep, inviting seat, allowing individuals to 'curl up' comfortably, a concept that perfectly aligned with the tactile qualities of bouclé. The 'Womb' chair was upholstered in Knoll's 'Classic Bouclé,' and both the chair and the fabric achieved immediate success. The fabric's soft texture and hard-wearing practicality made it an ideal choice for residential and commercial settings. Its inherent charm and functionality positioned it as a staple in contemporary design. Beyond interiors, bouclé soon captured the attention of the fashion world. Gabrielle Chanel, a pioneer in modern fashion, had already been experimenting with textured woolen fabrics like tweed since the 1930s. Two decades later, she incorporated bouclé into her collections, creating the distinctive boxy jackets and suits that became, and continue to be, symbols of chic elegance. This crossover into high fashion further cemented bouclé's reputation as a sophisticated and desirable material. The current renewed interest in bouclé is closely linked to the enduring popularity of mid-century modern design. Over the past five years, luxury textile firms such as Dedar have introduced collections dedicated to this tactile fabric. Furthermore, leading furniture designers like Levi Christiansen, Royal Stranger, and Raf Simons for Kvadrat have integrated bouclé into their new furniture ranges. The fabric's ability to add texture, visual interest, and comfort to interiors has contributed to its sustained appeal. Bouclé's versatility allows it to be used in various applications, from subtle accents to prominent furniture pieces. It can be featured in cushions, such as those made from Lelièvre's 'Kosi' or 'Lama' fabrics, or it can serve as upholstery for larger items like chairs and sofas, exemplified by B&B; Italia’s 'Tortello' chair designed by Barber Osgerby. Its tactile nature and aesthetic appeal ensure its continued relevance in contemporary design, making it a favorite among designers and homeowners alike. #BoucleFabric #InteriorDesign #TextileHistory #MidCenturyModern #FlorenceKnoll #EeroSaarinen #WombChair #FashionInfluence #TexturedFabrics

The article explores a prevailing trend in design-centric hotels: the use of custom and often handmade coverlets as a key design element, moving beyond the traditional emphasis on high thread count sheets. This approach highlights a commitment to unique aesthetics, local craftsmanship, and a deeper connection to the surrounding culture and history. Instead of relying solely on luxurious sheet materials, hotels are now investing in bespoke bedding that tells a story, often crafted by local artists and artisans. Five specific hotels are showcased for their distinctive coverlet designs. The Siren Hotel in Detroit, housed in a building with a musical heritage, commissioned two former Cranbrook Academy of Art students to create a pink-and-cream jacquard-woven coverlet featuring a mythological siren. This design not only nods to the building's origins but also emphasizes the hotel's Art Deco influences and its connection to the art community. At the Captain Whidbey Inn on Washington’s Whidbey Island, textile artist Hannah Ruth Levi weaves unique blankets on a floor loom. These blankets incorporate wool and cotton, reflecting the natural colors of the Pacific Northwest, including the deep blue of Puget Sound, pine green, storm-cloud gray, and occasional yellow. Each blanket is distinctive, with variations in color sequencing and stripe width, taking about a week to create, thus providing guests with a tangible piece of local art. The Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles features a custom blanket designed in collaboration with L.A.-based Commune and produced by Pendleton Woolen Mills. These Mondrian-esque blankets, with blocks of jade, cobalt, and fiery orange, add warmth and color to the hotel's industrial-chic rooms, which are characterized by concrete floors and unpainted walls. This collaboration brings together renowned design firms and heritage manufacturers to create a unique guest experience. Canada’s Fogo Island Inn, located in remote Newfoundland, celebrates the island's centuries-old quilting tradition. The inn's quilts feature vibrant patchwork designs, often incorporating clean-lined heritage patterns like stripes, log cabins, and herringbone, made by local quilters. The color palette is bright and lively, and the quilts serve as works of art in the modern guest rooms. A unique detail is that each quilt changes seasonally and includes the name of the local quilter sewn directly into the fabric, reinforcing the connection to the community and its craft. Finally, the Durham Hotel in North Carolina, a former bank, showcases mid-century modern design with interiors by Commune. The hotel’s denim coverlets, created by local jeanswear brand Raleigh Denim Workshop, are a modern interpretation of traditional patchwork quilts. These coverlets use various denim washes to form bold, geometric patterns that complement the hotel’s color-blocked carpets and artwork, blending local craftsmanship with a contemporary aesthetic. Across these examples, the common thread is the dedication to creating bespoke, locally inspired, and artfully crafted coverlets that enhance the guest experience and reflect the unique identity of each hotel. This trend signifies a shift towards celebrating traditional techniques, supporting local artisans, and integrating meaningful design elements into hospitality spaces. #DesignHotels #CustomBedding #TextileArt #LocalCraftsmanship #HotelDesign #InteriorDecor #BeddingTrends #ArtisanProducts

Bedspreads serve as a versatile bedding option, offering both an extra layer of warmth and decorative appeal to a bedroom. Unlike comforters or duvets, bedspreads are typically thinner and designed to drape extensively over the bed, often reaching the floor. This provides a finished, tidy appearance while protecting the bed from dust and dirt. Their lightweight and breathable construction makes them particularly suitable for warmer climates or as a light covering during summer months, yet they can also be layered with other blankets for added warmth in colder seasons. The article highlights several top bedspreads, catering to various preferences and budgets. The L.L.Bean Vintage Matelassé Bedspread is recognized as the 'Best Overall' for its balance of affordability, comfort, and style. Its matelassé weave provides a quilted look without heavy padding, and its oversized dimensions ensure ample coverage. The Lush Décor Ruffle Skirt 3 Piece Bedspread Set is recommended as the 'Best Value,' offering an affordable yet elegant solution that includes matching pillow shams. Made from 100% polyester, it is lightweight and moisture-wicking, though it requires dry cleaning. For those seeking luxury, the Frette Luxury Lozenge Bedspread, crafted in Italy from a cotton-silk blend, is presented as the 'Best Luxury' option, known for its sophisticated sheen, delicate feel, and excellent temperature regulation, despite its high price point. The Company Store Putnam Cotton Matelassé Bedspread is featured as the 'Best All-Season' choice, made from 100% cotton, balancing warmth and breathability for year-round use and being machine-washable. Key differences between bedspreads and other bedding items are clarified. Bedspreads are distinguished from blankets by their larger size, covering the entire bed and often reaching the floor, whereas blankets typically cover only the sleeping surface. When compared to quilts and comforters, bedspreads are the thinnest, usually consisting of a single layer of fabric, while quilts have three layers (decorative outer, fill, backing) and comforters are the thickest and warmest. The primary benefits of bedspreads include their ability to act as a traditional accent to bedroom decor, their year-round versatility, and their comprehensive coverage. Various materials used in bedspreads are discussed, each with distinct characteristics. Cotton bedspreads are breathable and ideal for hot sleepers but may lack insulation. Wool offers year-round temperature regulation, providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer, but can be more expensive. Chenille provides a tufted, fuzzy texture, often thicker and warmer, but may require careful maintenance. Polyester bedspreads are affordable, retain heat, and wick moisture, often used in blends. Velvet bedspreads are soft, warm, and luxurious, but tend to attract dust and pet hair. When selecting a bedspread, important considerations include the quality of materials, aesthetic design, size (ensuring it provides desired drape), tactile feel, price, weight, durability, temperature regulation, and ease of care. The article advises checking manufacturer recommendations for washing to prolong the bedspread's lifespan. #Bedspreads #Bedding #HomeDecor #SleepProducts #BedroomDesign #FabricMaterials #TextileCare #LuxuryBedding #AffordableBedding

The DUNE collectible piece, a collaboration between BUDDE and Nando Studio, redefines the traditional rug by transforming it into a multifunctional design object that serves as both a rug and a sculptural daybed. Currently exhibited at Galleria Rossana Orlandi, this piece introduces a novel category in interior design, blending the characteristics of a chaise lounge with a textile landscape. The design, originating from Cologne-based BUDDE and Nando Studio, is crafted from gun-tufted merino wool and incorporates a removable bent aluminum frame for structural support. This frame allows for flexible configurations within various living spaces. Inspired by the historical practice of floor seating prevalent in nomadic desert cultures, DUNE integrates these ancestral influences with the ergonomic sensibilities and tactile comfort associated with European design. The result is a sculptural form that promotes diverse interactions, whether through communal cross-legged seating or individual reclining on its elevated, undulating surfaces. The name "DUNE" directly references its aesthetic, as the rug's rippling pattern visually evokes wind-sculpted sand dunes. This visual theme is further enhanced by a warm, gradient color palette that mimics the transient colors of desert sunlight. The aluminum frame, cleverly hidden beneath the wool surface, offers adaptability, as it can be detached and repositioned under either side of the rug. This feature enables the daybed to be adjusted to suit different spatial arrangements and user preferences. Measuring 300 x 175 x 42 centimeters, DUNE is designed to function as a focal point within a room, initiating conversations and transforming the floor into an area of enhanced comfort and artistic expression. The project info identifies BUDDE and Nando Studio as the designers, with Saskia Kinast credited for the imagery. This innovative piece exemplifies a fusion of art, functional design, and cultural narrative, offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional lounging elements. #BUDDE #NandoStudio #DuneDaybed #SculpturalFurniture #MerinoWool #InteriorDesign #TextileArt #ChaiseLounge #GalleriaRossanaOrlandi #CustomizableDesign

Dorothy Cosonas, creative director at KnollTextiles, is a significant figure in contemporary textile design, recognized for her ability to blend historical tradition with forward-thinking aesthetics. With seven of her designs, including four of her own creations, inducted into the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum's permanent collection, Cosonas upholds Knoll's legacy of modern textiles for contemporary interiors. Her approach deviates from the rigid Modernist textiles historically associated with Knoll, incorporating deep colors, patterns, and ornaments. This nuanced aesthetic is a result of her extensive experience and unique design philosophy. Cosonas's career began after graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she honed her skills in fine arts and textile design. Mentored by Sina Pearson at Unika Vaev, she developed a keen understanding of the textile industry and a talent for modern design. She rose to Vice President of Design at Unika Vaev before joining KnollTextiles in 2005, taking the helm of the textile division established by design icon Florence Knoll Bassett. Her tenure at KnollTextiles is marked by a deep respect for the brand's heritage, as she currently delves into the company's archives in preparation for its 70th anniversary. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining Knoll's reputation for aesthetic, principle, and refinement, viewing her role as a continuation of a lineage of distinguished designers. Andrew Cogan, Knoll’s CEO, praises Cosonas for consistently setting the pace in the industry, highlighting the limitless opportunities for groundbreaking designs through new technologies, innovative weaves, architectural applications, and collaborations with guest designers. The competitive nature of the industry demands five to six new collections annually, and Cosonas meticulously oversees the 12- to 14-month development process. This includes extensive research, selecting appropriate mills, and multiple rounds of prototyping. Her challenge lies in creating designs that are current, slightly ahead of trends, yet timeless, ensuring they do not quickly become outdated. Fashion serves as Cosonas’s primary source of inspiration, evident from her office's pinup board adorned with photos, clippings, and swatches. She expertly translates motifs, textures, and details from high fashion, such as Chanel and Alexander McQueen, into textiles suitable for modern interiors. Matilda McQuaid of the Cooper Hewitt notes Cosonas's masterful ability to transform inspirations into original contract textiles, exemplified by her design "Topography," which, though inspired by Missoni, evolved into a unique interpretation resembling geological strata. This talent for hybrid design also extends to her collaborations with other designers, such as Irma Boom and David Adjaye, and high-end fashion designers like Proenza Schouler and Maria Cornejo, ensuring their visions are translated effectively into fabric. Cosonas's personal history also influences her work. For the 2016 Odyssey collection, she drew inspiration from her Greek heritage, modernizing embroidery motifs from her grandmother’s 1913 handwoven rug. This collection, featuring fabrics like Andissa, Vatera, and Yeni, alongside solid upholstery fabrics, represented a unique challenge in adapting traditional elements to a contemporary context. Her foresight in anticipating trends was affirmed when similar Old World–meets–modern embroidery themes appeared in fashion collections shortly after her line's development. Cosonas attributes her success to trusting her instincts and relentlessly pursuing the right design. Ultimately, the greatest reward for her is seeing Knoll's textiles integrated into real-world spaces, a testament to the chosen quality and design in a saturated market. #TextileDesign #KnollTextiles #DorothyCosonas #InteriorDesign #FashionInfluence #DesignInnovation #ModernDesign #Craftsmanship #DesignCollaboration

Tom Dixon is set to unveil a new textile collection, named Super Texture, at the Maison&Objet; furniture fair. This collection is an exploration of various textile techniques, including weaving, knitting, knotting, and digital printing, applied across a range of cushions and throws. The Super Texture collection introduces three new product families and includes updates to two of Dixon's existing lines. Among the new offerings are the Abstract cushions, which are thick, woolly cushions distinguished by bold blocks of saturated color. These cushions are crafted by artisans in Varanasi, Northern India, utilizing a hand-tufting technique traditionally employed for rug making, resulting in durable, shaggy textures. Dixon drew inspiration from urban perspective sketches and 1970s "hippy" wall hangings for these deep-pile cushions. Another new addition for 2018 is the Paint cushions, which feature painterly prints of abstracted urban landscapes. These landscapes were created by British artist Josephine Ortega, commissioned by Dixon to produce a series of architectural watercolors based on British urban scenes. The designs are rendered onto a textured canvas made from off-white linen blended with lightweight viscose, with pink and indigo pigments digitally printed onto the fabric. The Paint cushions are then sewn, stuffed, and finished in Britain. The third new family in the collection is Geo, comprising cushions and throws that showcase geology-inspired illustrations. These patterns, reminiscent of rock formations and layered sediment, are embroidered in black thread onto white cushions and a double-sided throw. In addition to these new product families, the Super Texture collection brings updates to the existing Soft and Boucle ranges. The Soft cushions and pouches are now available in new Wine and Khaki colorways. The Boucle cushions and throws are updated with Khaki and Electric Blue options, with the studio noting the electric blue's intensity and the military-inspired khaki's versatility as both a neutral and a highlight. The manufacturing processes for these textiles highlight traditional craftsmanship and global sourcing. The Boucle cushions are hand-spun using hand-woven yarn in the mountainous region of Rajasthan, India, with wool sourced from New Zealand. The Soft cushions and pouches are crafted from Dutch woven fabric, utilizing South-African Angora goat hair. This collection, debuting at Maison&Objet;, is part of a broader launch of new designs at the fair. Other notable introductions include spherical glass pendant lamps by Sebastian Herkner for German brand Pulpo and a martial arts-inspired table and chair set by AC/AL Studio for Petite Friture. The Super Texture collection reinforces Tom Dixon's commitment to exploring diverse materials and manufacturing techniques to create distinctive homeware items. #TomDixon #TextileDesign #MaisonObjet #Cushions #Throws #HomewareDesign #IndianCraftsmanship #BritishDesign #ProductLaunch

This article explores the Czech bedding style and its potential benefits for sleep quality, drawing insights from Terezie Täubelová, founder of Marieli, a Czech luxury bedding brand. The company's heritage dates back to the First Republic, with Täubelová's great-grandmother owning a bedding shop, a legacy disrupted by communism but now revived with a focus on quality and sustainability. Täubelová, a former diplomat, emphasizes that good sleep is fundamental for overall well-being and productivity, asserting that it begins with a well-prepared bedroom environment. Marieli's commitment to quality is evident in its production, with down comforters sourced from Czech farms and cotton sheets produced ethically and environmentally friendly, holding the Oeko-Tex certificate. The brand aims to return the high-quality standards of the past to modern bedrooms. The article delves into cultural aspects of sleep, particularly the debate around shared versus individual duvets and the use of top sheets. Täubelová advocates for separate duvets for couples, especially if they have different thermal needs, highlighting that men often prefer lighter duvets while women may need warmer ones. This approach ensures personalized comfort and minimizes sleep disturbances. While acknowledging the intimacy a shared duvet can foster, the scientific perspective prioritizes uninterrupted sleep. The discussion then moves to the top sheet, which is presented as a cultural preference. Täubelová, who personally prefers sleeping without a top sheet, explains that its primary function as a hygienic layer is often redundant if a duvet cover is used and bedding is washed regularly. However, for those using quilted duvets without covers, a top sheet becomes essential for hygiene. The article also provides practical advice for creating an optimal sleep environment, recommending a bedroom free of televisions, work areas, and clutter. It suggests using good-quality blackout curtains, avoiding overly complicated decorations that collect dust, and opting for bright, gentle colors and patterns that promote a calm atmosphere. Investing in high-quality bedding, despite a higher initial cost, is presented as a sound long-term investment, as it offers durability and superior performance, thereby enhancing the quality of sleep and life. Marieli maintains a customer-centric approach, offering fast, free shipping, easy returns, and responsive support. The brand's products, made with solid stitching and durable materials, are available as sets or individually. For newcomers, Marieli offers decorative pillows and a "Ready to Sleep" package, providing a complete bedding solution at a discounted price. Marieli's philosophy extends beyond selling products; it aims to educate customers on optimizing their sleep and fostering a comfortable and inviting sleep space, emphasizing the profound impact of sleep on daily life. #BeddingStyle #SleepQuality #CzechCulture #MarieliBedding #BedroomDesign #SustainableProducts #ExpatLife #HealthAndWellness #HomeTextiles

The concept of luxury, traditionally associated with fashion, is now being extended to home textiles, particularly bedding, which occupies a significant portion of daily life. Current home design trends, from organic modern aesthetics featuring relaxed duvets to Hipstoric styles utilizing crisp linens, highlight the growing demand for sumptuous bed threads. Understanding the distinct characteristics of luxury bedding brands and new styles, including various stitches and thread counts, is crucial. This article categorizes luxury bedding into three main types: Hotel Bedding, Organic Bedding, and Rustic Bedding, providing specific recommendations within each category. Hotel bedding aims to replicate the crisp, refined feel found in five-star establishments. Experts recommend supima cotton bedding with a percale weave, rather than sateen, for its cool and crisp properties. A thread count between 300 and 400 is considered ideal for breathability, as hotels prioritize 'true' thread counts over multi-ply yarns. Top recommendations in this category include the Frette Classic Collection, known for its elegant Egyptian cotton percale with double-row embroidery; the Sferra Celeste Sheet Set, an Italian-woven extra-long-staple Egyptian cotton percale; the Matouk Essex Duvet Cover, a 350-thread-count cotton with a satin stitch border and convenient zipper closure; the Ralph Lauren Home Spencer Sateen Border Comforter, a 300-thread-count cotton sateen option with a tailored look and OEKO-TEX certification; and the Donna Karan Essential Quilt, a silk-lyocell blend renowned for its softness and oversized coverage. Organic bedding caters to the popular relaxed linen look seen across social media, aligning with the organic modern trend. Key to this style is flax linen bedding, valued for its relaxed texture that softens with age. When selecting organic bedding, opting for 'flax linen' with Oeko-Tex certification is advised, ensuring the product is organic, free of harmful chemicals, and suitable for sensitive skin. Featured organic bedding options include the Coyuchi Scandinavian Bed Bundle, made from sturdy, GOTS-certified flax linen designed to soften over time; the Snowe Home Linen Sheet Set, praised for its softness, cooling properties, and durability; The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Duvet Cover, a French flax linen duvet that improves with washing; the Cozy Earth Silk Comforter, filled with mulberry silk and shelled with bamboo viscose for temperature regulation and softness; and the Hawkins New York Simple Linen Quilt, a lightweight, stonewashed Belgian flax linen quilt available in vintage-inspired hues. Rustic bedding appeals to an eclectic style, blending upscale aesthetics with farmhouse charm, aligning with the "Hipstoric heritage" trend. This category emphasizes coverlets and quilts with muted, tone-on-tone patterns that offer a minimal yet cozy feel. The focus is on investing in high-quality, vintage-inspired pieces made from premium materials that can be passed down through generations. Suggested items for a rustic look include flannel sheets, fringed coverlets, and floral percale duvets, evoking a classic Ralph Lauren aesthetic with patterned or textured linens. Specific recommendations include the Ralph Lauren Home Camile Bedding Collection, which features paisley prints on cotton percale and sateen, with options for comforters, duvet covers, and coordinating accessories; the Peacock Alley Egyptian Cotton Flannel Sheet Set, which offers soft, breathable Egyptian cotton flannel despite its typically warm reputation; the Peacock Alley Seville Percale Duvet Cover, known for its unique floral motifs inspired by European architecture; the Ralph Lauren Sandra Floral Comforter Set, a 200-thread-count cotton percale comforter with painted bouquets; and the Serena and Lily Lakeside Coverlet, a waffle-woven cotton coverlet with a fringed edge that provides a quaint, B&B feel. #LuxuryBedding #HomeDecor #BeddingTrends #HotelBedding #OrganicBedding #RusticBedding #InteriorDesign #HomeTextiles #BedroomEssentials

The ottoman, a widely recognized piece of upholstered, backless furniture, holds a rich and somewhat debated history tied to its namesake, the Ottoman Empire. The term itself is often attributed to Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire, also known as ‘Uthman’ in Arabic. One prevailing theory suggests that the concept of the ottoman originated from a practice in the Ottoman Empire, where people would use stools piled with cushions to rest their feet in homes and tents. Turkish carpet weavers are credited with developing these footrests using bales of cotton. This method potentially evolved from an ancient Egyptian technique of crafting low stools from cloth and natural materials, a solution to the scarcity of wood in the desert environment. Early wooden frames in Egypt were often padded with leather for comfort. Another perspective proposes that in medieval Turkey, the ottoman was a primary form of residential seating, specifically referring to 'divan' — banquette-like sectional furniture that would line three walls of a room. These divans, laden with pillows, were common in council meetings (also called divans) held by sultans and commanders, fostering human interaction. The ottoman concept made its way to Europe in the late 18th or early 19th century. Its earliest documented use in Europe dates back to 1729 in France, appearing as ‘ottomane’. Thomas Jefferson's 1789 memorandum, detailing his purchase of a velvet ‘ottomane’ (likely an armchair) during his Paris tour, marks its entry into the English language. Upon its arrival in the West, the larger, divan-like piece began to shrink into smaller, more versatile units, suitable for corners or as circular seats around central columns, as often seen in modern hotel lobbies. By the 19th century, the design of the ottoman evolved significantly, moving from wall-aligned seating to a central room feature. It adopted circular or octagonal forms, and some versions even included backs or arms. However, contemporary ottomans are typically devoid of these features, often incorporating buttoned upholstery, castors, or integrated storage. The French invasion of Egypt in the late 18th century offers another theory for the ottoman's nomenclature. French observers reportedly witnessed locals using distinct footstools to rest their feet after enduring various hardships under Ottoman rule. The French then adopted this furniture style. Alternatively, Western European travelers might have brought this Near Eastern design back from their travels in Greece and the Balkans. The exact reason for the name transition from ‘ottomane’ to ‘ottoman’ and its potential symbolic implications—such as keeping the 'ottoman' (referring to the empire) figuratively 'under one's feet'—remains a subject for contemplation. #OttomanHistory #FurnitureDesign #TurkishCulture #HomeDecor #DesignEvolution #Footstool #Upholstery #InteriorDesign #CulturalExchange

The demand for cut-and-sewn mattress products, particularly zippered covers, is experiencing significant growth, driven largely by the increasing popularity of boxed beds. This trend has led to more textile and components suppliers entering the zippered cover market, offering specialized services that allow mattress manufacturers to cut costs and improve efficiency by outsourcing. Previously, such outsourcing was less common, but now, mattress producers are comfortable relying on external suppliers for various components and services, including finished beds and fabrics. BekaertDeslee Solutions, a cut-and-sew division, highlights the evolution of knit fabrics, expanding beyond all-foam mattresses to hybrids and innerspring models, as well as accessory products like pillows and protectors. The company focuses on clean, simple, and functional cover designs, and is actively working to shorten lead times for orders. To achieve this, BekaertDeslee Solutions has expanded its cut-and-sew capabilities to its Mexican textile facility, aiming for a one-stop-shop model where knitting and sewing can occur on the same day under one roof. This strategic move is intended to enhance service to U.S. customers and compete effectively against offshore providers with longer lead times. CT Nassau Corp. has also significantly expanded its presence in the cut-and-sew arena. The company acquired a majority stake in Ideal Quilting and partnered with Furniture for Living to create Cover Contract Sewing. These investments have integrated their operations, allowing them to offer a comprehensive range of products, including mattress fabrics, borders, tapes, handles, and presewn and engineered covers. CT Nassau emphasizes engineered borders, which mimic intricate cut-and-sewn designs but are woven in a single piece, reducing labor costs and addressing the challenge of finding skilled sewers. The company has also lowered minimum order requirements and offers in-stock covers to meet fluctuating market demands. Ideal Quilting, under Nick Rossini, notes a trend towards presewn smooth-top covers with visually distinctive designs, drawing inspiration from fashion and interior design. Manufacturers are seeking bolder colors and patterns to differentiate their products in a saturated market. Covers are also expected to be durable, comfortable, easy to install, and removable, offering merchandising flexibility. Technological advancements allow for more intricate designs, colors, and patterns, with a growing focus on integrating technologies that offer benefits like temperature management and eco-friendly materials. Maxime Knitting's TM Couture service has seen strong growth, leading to the establishment of a second vertical cut-and-sew facility in Mexico. This expansion aims to service the promotional market with shorter lead times and a comprehensive, vertically integrated approach from knitting to finished covers. The company uses advanced software to streamline operations and product development, ensuring traceability and transparency. Current trends in zippered covers lean towards cleaner, simpler designs, with knit borders replacing woven ones due to better recovery properties. Color is increasingly used to differentiate products, especially in the e-commerce sector, with heathered grays, chambrays, indigos, and dark shades gaining popularity. Jomel Seams Reasonable, a division of Jomel Industries, has transformed into a major profit center with multiple facilities and over 125 employees. Their growth, fueled by e-commerce and boxed beds, extends to traditional mattress channels, government contracts, and related sewn products. For the online market targeting younger consumers, smooth, clean, and elegant covers are preferred, often in heathered gray, charcoal, white, and off-white tones. While Jomel creates innovative prototypes for shows, current trends favor subtle embellishments, engineered borders, decorative stitching, embroidered logos, and custom zippers to convey brand messaging and product features. The company's U.S. presence offers advantages in freight rates, turnaround times, and custom solutions. George Jimerson and Tim Witherell of Creative Ticking emphasize the role of covers in conveying brand messaging and highlighting innovative technologies within mattresses. They see growing demand for engineered covers, which integrate brand messaging during the design process and reduce labor. Creative Ticking, with its vertical integration, offers rapid turnaround times and inventory management, positioning itself as an alternative to offshore operations, especially given potential anti-dumping duties on Chinese mattresses. The company anticipates continued growth in zippered covers across various mattress types, with quilted knit covers featuring textured motifs becoming increasingly popular due to flexible yarns. Innofa Americas also observes expanding demand for zippered covers beyond boxed beds to hybrid models. They have developed covers to camouflage springs in compressed hybrids, maintaining product benefits. Innofa's engineered cover sales have more than doubled, offering design flexibility despite technical limitations in knitting intricate patterns. The company emphasizes smart, tech-savvy aesthetics with upscale appeal and enhanced performance, exemplified by new fabrics featuring extreme chill cooling and far infrared ray technology. Their Customer Experience Center facilitates collaboration with customers to develop innovative designs on-site. A. Lava & Son, through its partnership with Culp Home Fashions (CLASS), provides one-stop shopping for mattress components and sewn covers across various product categories. They leverage a diverse manufacturing base in the U.S., China, and Haiti to meet customer requirements for turnaround, price, and volume. Zippered covers are increasingly adopted across all mattress categories due to their affordability and ease of installation. Style-wise, covers are becoming more sophisticated, incorporating apparel-inspired techniques like flatlock stitching and using zippers as fashion elements to enhance aesthetics and brand promotion. #MattressIndustry #CutAndSewnCovers #BoxedBeds #TextileSuppliers #MattressManufacturing #ECommerce #SupplyChainInnovation #ProductDesign #HomeFurnishings

Donald Brothers, a Scottish furnishing-fabric company established in the early nineteenth century, is the subject of a collection of over 300 fabric design images now freely available on JSTOR, courtesy of Heriot-Watt University. The company, based in Dundee, has a rich history in textile design, though much of its business records, including details on specific designers for many pieces, have not survived. Despite this, the collection offers a significant glimpse into the company's aesthetic and its contribution to fabric design. The collection highlights various designers, including those who worked as freelancers and staff. One notable designer featured is Ernst Aufseeser, who created the 'Crossways' design in 1933. Aufseeser was a German emigrant who designed for multiple firms in Britain before returning to Germany where he died in 1940. His children also pursued careers in design, suggesting a lasting legacy within the family. His work for Donald Brothers showcases a geometric and modern aesthetic that was prevalent in the early 20th century. Mary Oliver, another prominent designer, is credited with 'London Square' from 1948. This design was inspired by views from her London flat, reflecting a personal connection to her work. Oliver's career began with practical design, as she was involved in designing models of landing beaches during World War II. Her ability to transition from such critical tasks to creating intricate fabric patterns while still a student demonstrates her versatile talent. Marjorie Young contributed multiple designs, including 'Cactus' (1950) and 'Berne' (1951). Young designed for both Wemyss Fabrics and Donald Brothers. Her career trajectory later shifted to local drawing and design after she started a family, indicating the evolving priorities and constraints faced by designers during that era. Her designs often featured natural motifs, capturing the organic forms of plants and landscapes. The collection also includes designs where the specific creators are unknown or not explicitly mentioned, such as 'Wildflowers' (1955), 'Beaumont' (1937), 'Carron' (1939), 'Medina' (1944), 'Persian Tree' (1930), and 'Windows' (1951). These pieces collectively represent the diverse artistic styles and influences that shaped Donald Brothers' output over several decades. For instance, 'Wildflowers' might evoke a pastoral English garden, while 'Persian Tree' suggests exotic and intricate patterns, showcasing a global influence on design. Other attributed works include 'Pisces' (1955) by George Zissimedes, a design likely featuring aquatic or celestial themes given its name. Cecil Judge's 'Bamboo' (1936) is particularly notable as it was supplied to significant clients like Harland and Wolff shipbuilders in Belfast and the General Dental Council in London, illustrating the broad application of Donald Brothers' fabrics in various commercial and institutional settings. These designs underscore the functional and decorative aspects of the fabrics, used not only in homes but also in public and commercial spaces. The availability of these samples provides valuable insight into the history of textile design, the evolution of interior aesthetics, and the careers of individual designers during the 20th century. Researchers and enthusiasts can explore the collection to understand artistic trends, material culture, and the industrial production of textiles in Scotland. #FabricSamples #TextileDesign #ScottishTextiles #DonaldBrothers #HeriotWattUniversity #InteriorDesignHistory #FurnishingFabrics #MidCenturyDesign #DesignHistory

Swedish designer Stefan Borselius has expanded his Tondo chair collection for furniture brand Fogia into a comprehensive modular sofa system. Building upon the success of the Tondo chairs introduced last year, which featured simple cushioned seats and backs with optional armrests and head supports, the new sofa system maintains the original design's core principles while offering enhanced versatility. The Tondo sofa system is built around 55-centimetre square modules, allowing for numerous configurations. These modules can function as individual stool seats or be combined to form two- or three-seater sofas. A key feature of the system is its adaptability, with options for integrating tabletops and varying backrest heights to suit different functional and aesthetic requirements. This modularity is designed to make the sofa system suitable for a wide range of environments, from private homes to public and commercial spaces. Borselius's design philosophy for the Tondo sofa system aimed to balance seemingly contradictory qualities: thinness with softness, simplicity with character, lightness with robustness, and classic appeal with a playful touch. This approach ensures the furniture is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and durable. The construction involves an ash frame upholstered with multiple layers of foam and fabric, available in a variety of colors. The sofa modules are supported by distinct round-footed ash legs, contributing to the overall refined appearance. Specific variations within the system include angled backrests, small and large armrests, and back supports that are tall enough to serve as effective room dividers. These elements allow users to customize their seating arrangements to create intimate high-backed two-seater sofas for residential settings or expansive, low-backed multiple-seat sofas with integrated tables for commercial applications like waiting rooms. Fogia, the Sweden-based furniture manufacturer, describes the Tondo sofa system as an evolution from a single comfortable chair to a complete seating solution for both home and office environments. The brand highlights how the design's stark, exact lines encase generous comfort, and its classic shape balances playfulness with neatness, all while providing a soft aesthetic. The rectangular exterior of the modules suggests an architectural influence, contrasting with the light and soft upholstery which is designed to adapt to the body, offering a sense of sensuous coziness. The Tondo Sofa system made its debut at the Stockholm Furniture Fair. At the same event, Fogia also showcased other new designs, including a minimal furniture range by Andreas Engesvik and a compact lounge chair by Note Design Studio, further underscoring the brand's commitment to contemporary and versatile furniture solutions. The development of the Tondo sofa system reflects a thoughtful expansion of an existing successful design, adapting it to meet broader market needs while maintaining its distinctive characteristics. #StefanBorselius #TondoSofa #FogiaFurniture #ModularDesign #SofaSystem #FurnitureDesign #StockholmFurnitureFair #InteriorDesign #ScandinavianDesign

The article discusses the resurgence of ruffly patterned bed skirts, a popular bedding trend from the 1980s. This comeback is highlighted by data from the bedding brand Piglet in Bed, which observed a significant increase in searches for "valances" (the British term for bed skirts) and "floral" products. Queries for valances have skyrocketed by 734% since December, and floral products have seen a 47% year-on-year increase. The renewed interest in bed skirts is attributed to their aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. They offer a decorative element that can instantly transform a bedroom's look, adding a touch of charm and nostalgia. From a functional perspective, billowy bed skirts are effective at concealing storage or clutter underneath the bed, contributing to a tidier appearance in the bedroom. To help readers incorporate this trend into modern home decor, the article features five stylish bed skirt options. The "Spring Sprig Cotton Bed Skirt" from Piglet in Bed offers a charming, countryside-inspired floral motif, suitable for adding a cheerful touch and reminding one of warmer seasons. The "Vintage Bed Skirt" from Greenrow provides a direct callback to nostalgic bedroom aesthetics with its floral design. For those seeking a classic yet adaptable look, the "Sawyer Mill Tailored Bed Skirt" from Wayfair features a timeless stripe pattern. This option can be modernized by pairing it with high-contrast, bold patterned bedding, such as a large-scale plaid or a floral Ikat, to create a maximalist style. The "Zen Linen Bed Skirt" from P.C. Fallon Co. is presented as a choice for transforming the bed into a functional work of art, with its distinctive lattice print. Finally, the "Warm Blue Gingham Linen Blend Bed Skirt" from Piglet in Bed is suggested for its versatile gingham pattern and soothing blue hue. This bed skirt is noted for its ability to complement either solid-colored sheets or botanical patterns, adding a sweet and welcoming touch to any bedroom setting. The article provides diverse options to cater to various aesthetic preferences while embracing this revived bedding trend. #BeddingTrends #HomeDecor #BedroomDesign #InteriorStyle #PatternedBedSkirts #VintageRevival #ProductRecommendations #AffiliateMarketing

The article highlights the resurgence of coverlets in bedding, moving away from fluffy down comforters. This shift is observed in both residential and hospitality design projects, with designers like Axel Vervoordt and Rose Uniacke incorporating sleek, minimalist bedding styles. Sebastian Zuchowicki, for example, drew inspiration from 1950s Italian homes to furnish the James Bradley Hotel with heavy linen coverlets, aiming for an effortless and casual aesthetic, particularly effective against limewashed walls. The article details the specific styling techniques required to achieve this elegant, old-world look. Key recommendations include storing extra pillows to maintain a smooth surface, with only two pillows being necessary and hidden under the coverlet. Some designs may feature a single boudoir or lumbar pillow on top. To achieve an elongated, pooling effect on the floor, the coverlet should be purchased one size larger than the bed. This style is particularly well-suited for lower beds, though designer Colin King suggests tucking the fabric under the mattress or allowing sides to drape over if a footboard or platform is to be featured. King also emphasizes that the heavy nature of certain bedcovers, like those from his collaboration with Cultiver, helps combat wrinkles, ensuring a flat and forgiving appearance. For those concerned about comfort for sleeping, the article addresses how to maintain coziness while adopting the coverlet style. Designer Augusta Hoffman, known for her natural yet refined interiors, proposes layering a heavyweight bedspread over a duvet. This method allows sleepers to retain the comfort and weight of a comforter, while it remains completely hidden beneath the coverlet. Hoffman notes that this technique also simplifies the bed-making process, eliminating the need for perfectly ironed and tucked linens. The piece concludes with recommendations for purchasing coverlets, suggesting various options available in the market. Hoffman recommends a raw canvas coverlet from Ruemmler for winter due to its softening quality over time and wrinkle forgiveness, and a gauzier Jayson Home bed cover for summer, available in a range of earth tones. Several other coverlets are also listed, including options from Cultiver, Parachute Home, Morrow Softgoods, Coyuchi, Quince, Design Within Reach, Bed Threads, and Matouk, providing readers with diverse choices to achieve a rustic, laid-back bedroom aesthetic. #ItalianBedding #Coverlets #HomeDecor #BedroomDesign #BeddingTrends #InteriorDesign #StylingTips #LinenBedding #HomeFurnishings

The article presents an interview between Joy Moyler and Esha Ahmed, focusing on Ahmed’s journey into textile design and the philosophy behind her brand, Makrosha. Esha Ahmed, born in Bangladesh and raised in New York, recounts her early introduction to textiles through her mother’s extensive sari collection in Jackson Heights. These early experiences, including playfully repurposing saris into costumes, sparked her interest in fabrics and fashion. Ahmed's formal education at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she studied fashion design and later costume preservation and textiles for her master’s, further solidified her passion. Her initial career involved managing designer Peter Marino's extensive textile collection, an experience that broadened her understanding of textiles within interior design, covering commercial, residential, and hospitality projects. This role provided insight into both the creation and application of textiles, exposing her to numerous vendors and artisans. Following her tenure with Marino, Ahmed launched Makrosha, a business specializing in fabric, rugs, and throw pillows. A core mission for Makrosha is to preserve and support vanishing traditional weaving arts globally, ensuring the survival of high-quality, handcrafted textiles. Ahmed collaborates with weavers worldwide, each contributing unique methods and aesthetics to her designs. She also partners with designers for custom textiles and represents Aïssa Dione Tissus, a Senegalese master weaver known for handwoven fabrics. Ahmed draws inspiration from historical fashion design, particularly medieval styles, and shares an affinity for late 18th-century Europe and medieval Spain, periods known for their ornate, colorful, and detailed designs that resulted from cultural fusions. She acknowledges the historical influence of the fashion industry on luxury home textiles, observing how trends from designers like Dries Van Noten often translate into the home market. However, Ahmed expresses concerns about the modern culture of disposability and emphasizes the importance of sustainability and longevity in design. She advocates for investing in high-quality items, such as hand-knotted rugs that can take months to create, intending for them to last generations rather than being treated as disposable goods. Her design process involves starting with inspirations from her antique collection, developing renderings with mills, and collaborating closely with individual makers across different cultures, such as those in Laos, Nepal, and England, to ensure the essence of craftsmanship is maintained. Ahmed stresses that true quality and craftsmanship come from this collaborative, hands-on approach. The conversation highlights the critical need to protect traditional weaving practices from extinction due to increasing mechanization, underscoring Makrosha's role in keeping these artisanal skills alive. #TextileDesign #GlobalWeaving #EshaAhmed #Makrosha #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #ArtisanalCraftsmanship #FashionHistory #HomeDecor

The article explores the evolving landscape of mattress ticking, highlighting how it has transformed from a purely functional outer cover into a significant element of mattress design, performance, and fashion. Historically, mattress ticking was a simple, plain fabric, but contemporary consumer demands have driven innovations in materials, patterns, and functionalities. Today's ticking acts as a fashion statement, integrating seamlessly with interior design trends while also fulfilling crucial performance expectations such as cooling, antimicrobial properties, and sustainability. A major focus in the ticking industry is sustainability, with manufacturers actively seeking natural materials and incorporating recycled components. Boyteks Tekstil, for instance, has gained recognition for its vegan mattress ticking, which is animal-product-free and environmentally friendly. Lava Textiles introduced Zoë, a fabric blending cotton with Tencel fibers derived from sustainable forestry, known for its eco-friendly manufacturing process and excellent moisture-wicking properties. Aydin Tekstil developed Cococo, a fabric made from coconut-based yarn, which utilizes activated carbon from coconut shells to create fibers with antibacterial, deodorizing, and moisture-managing qualities. CT Nassau is innovating by repurposing its production waste into new quilting materials, employing an ultrasonic process that melts fabrics together to form patterns without threads, demonstrating a commitment to reducing waste. Fashion is a driving force behind modern ticking design, with inspiration drawn from haute couture and interior design. Companies like Maxime Knitting leverage their background in high-end fashion to create mattress ticking that elevates the mattress to a piece of furniture. Maes Mattress Ticking translates fashion trends, such as modernized houndstooth patterns, into woven ticking. Culp Home Fashions, inspired by Chanel, developed a bridal collection of ticking, recognizing the growing trend of mattresses and bedding being featured on wedding registries. This highlights a shift towards viewing mattresses as integral components of a room's aesthetic. The industry is also embracing futuristic and digital trends. BekaertDeslee's Neo fabric collection, for example, explores themes like "Restart" with sporty designs and "Rejoice" with hyper-natural, digitally-inspired botanical patterns that feature blurred effects and non-traditional colors. Maxime Knitting's Digital Trace collection showcases avant-garde, geometric designs with 3D effects, reflecting a futuristic and bold aesthetic. Meanwhile, there's a simultaneous appreciation for both modern and traditional styles. Maes reinterprets traditional Belgian damask with a contemporary touch, while Global Textile Alliance offers distinct Traditional and Modern collections. The Traditional line features soft, floral, and antique-inspired patterns, emphasizing a feminine and livable aesthetic, while the Modern collection embraces contrasting elements with arresting graphics reminiscent of barcodes or M.C. Escher's work. Color plays a pivotal role in these trends. While white and gray remain dominant, a broader palette including rose gold, saturated neutrals, pinks, lilacs, cobalt, umber, violet, and teal is emerging. BekaertDeslee emphasizes color as a key tool for self-expression, especially in expanding virtual worlds like the metaverse. WGSN's color of the year, Orchid Flower purple, is predicted to influence designs, blending nature with technology and conveying optimism. Furthermore, the border of the mattress is gaining attention as a critical visual element, with designers creating textured, upholstered-feel borders and incorporating diverse patterns and colors to capture consumer interest. Beyond aesthetics, performance remains paramount. Modern ticking must be cooling, hygienic, and offer flame retardant (FR) solutions. Antimicrobial properties, particularly boosted by recent health concerns, are now a strong third requirement after cooling and sustainability. Companies like Creative offer CoolZone fabrics and collaborate on antimicrobial lines, while Culp integrates cooling properties into colored fabrics. Standard Fiber highlights the growth of polyethylene and cooling nylon yarns, along with bio-based finishing treatments to enhance evaporation and heat absorption. Innovations like Boyteks' cactus mattress ticking provide natural moisture management and cooling benefits. The article concludes that mattress ticking has evolved into a sophisticated component that combines innovative design, advanced functionality, and sustainable practices, offering a comprehensive sleep system that contributes to overall health and wellness. #MattressIndustry #Ticking #Textiles #Sustainability #ProductDesign #HomeDecor #TextileInnovation #FashionTrends #SleepProducts