Kravet Asks Alice...

We love the seasonal Kravet Inspired.News newsletter, the most recent of which debuted last week.
The "Ask Alice" column is always a favorite. Written by Alice Guercio, a 15-year Kravet veteran who is Vice President of Product Coordination, the column shares her expertise on specific fabrics. Maybe it was all of the Fashion Week happenings in NYC last week, but we found ourselves thinking of Chinoiserie. Turns out Guercio had already offered this distillation of its rich history, which we wanted to share:

"Recently I attended a meeting in which one of my colleagues told us all about the origin of chinoiserie. As he was telling the story to others in the room, I saw how they were enjoying his animated story of its history and I thought it would make a wonderful column.



The Western fascination with all things Oriental began in the mid 17th century with trade between Europe and China. Imported arts and crafts had an exciting and different beauty from those made in the west, especially Chinese porcelain and lacquer. In the early 18th century, the term “chinoiserie” was used to describe the European fantasy vision of China and the Far East. It is actually a French word for “Chinesery” or “Chinese-esque.”

It is an invented fusion of Asian motifs and European sophistication created by designers and craftsmen in the West. Since they knew little about far-off Asian cultures due to limited exposure, early chinoiserie is characterized by the use of imagery of a China that could only be imagined with pagodas, fabulous birds, monkeys, dragons and figures in exotic costumes. Decorative scenes may show a mythological creature in an oriental landscape, or an elegant lady with a Chinese parasol and Parisian hairstyle. Chinoiserie is often eccentric but most of all it is a fun mixture of fact and fiction of what seemed incredibly exotic to the people of Europe.



This new playful style was popularized when the French court of Louis XV found the curves and whimsy of chinoiserie integrated beautifully with Rococo architectural features. It soon spread throughout Europe and could be found in the interiors and gardens of the royal palaces.

It is fascinating to learn how an interpretation from a world away many centuries ago turned into the exotic, stylish and often peculiar fashion called chinoiserie. I encourage you all to dig deeper into the history because I have only touched the surface; after all, there is only so much information I can put in my little column."

If you have a question about fabric for Alice, email her at askalice@kravet.com and it just may become the subject of a future article!

Shown throughout is Ralph Lauren Home's Chinoiserie Garden that Kravet distributes to the trade.

Stop by Kravet at the DDB (Suite 324), DCH (Suite 150), DCOTA (Suite B-180) and PDC (B624) and pick up your copy.

Michael Smith to consult for Brunschwig

This just in: Brunschwig & Fils has tapped renowned interior designer Michael S. Smith as creative consultant. California-native Smith will help guide the brand’s future direction and product development through an exclusive consulting agreement. This collaboration will catapult Brunschwig & Fils to the top of the high-end, luxury home décor market, a space the company has occupied since the 1960s, and reinforce its position as the most prestigious brand in the industry. Smith will work closely with both Stephen Elrod, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Director for Brunschwig & Fils and Lee Jofa, and with the entire Brunschwig team, on designs released as soon as next year.



For more than a century, Brunschwig has been synonymous with quality and fine French-influenced design. The company was founded in 1900 as a tapestry-weaving mill in Aubusson and Bohain, France. Several of Brunschwig’s most beloved designs have remained top sellers for decades.
“Michael Smith’s experience and advice will be invaluable to the product and merchandising teams,” expressed Cary Kravet, President and CEO of Kravet Inc., which acquired Brunschwig & Fils in 2011. “I look forward to his fresh approach to this brand, which I am confident will help to present new collections that match the brand image and equity with the discerning palette of our customers. Michael will be an integral part of the Brunschwig & Fils team.”



Smith, known for his multi-layered take on traditional interiors, has redefined American design for a new generation. His influence appears throughout the country, from his classic design for the Oval Office in the White House to the cover of Architectural Digest and many fine residences in between. His first memories as a young designer are of the iconic rooms created by Billy Baldwin, Geoffrey Beene, Parish Hadley and others that featured floor to ceiling Brunschwig fabrics.


“It is a great testament to the longevity and beauty of Brunschwig fabrics that when I look through the archives, so many designs from decades past are still relevant. Brunschwig fabrics remain a symbol of absolute elegance and the iconic prints used throughout the years are always present, always Brunschwig, and still resonate today. Many of the classic Brunschwig patterns are go-tos in my own work,” said Smith. “My goal for Brunschwig is to marry its incredible archives with the talent of the brand’s artists, and create a new era of design inspiration based on the beauty of the past.”

Echo Design and Windsor Smith outdoors for Kravet

Nothing like a hump day afternoon to have us daydreaming of an afternoon in the sunshine. Kravet Soleil's latest outdoor textiles collections, from Echo Design and Windsor Smith Home let us harness that playful mood even if we're stuck indoors. With such beautiful, and durable fabrics that feel as good as they look, why shouldn't we do the whole house in them?


Hammock in Merton Stripe with pillows in Torbali.




The Echo Design collection includes sky blues, rich oranges and citrus notes with as many patterned elements for a perfectly mix-and-matched look. The company, which started as a scarf brand back in 1923, is now known for its range of home accessories with a classic, modern American sensibility.




Windsor Smith, known for her relaxed style, designed a palette of greens, pinks, bright yellows and strong neutrals that capture her California sensibility.

As seen in: Luxe Magazine

Pick up a copy of Luxe's Spring issue for a look at some of the editor's favorite finds at the DDB. A graphic paper by Farrow & Ball is pictured above.

Howard Slatkin's runner for Stark is pictured on this staircase:


Kevin Reilly's decorative accessories at Holly Hunt:


And Kravet's upholstered bed:

Blogfest 2012!

If the DDB feels particular bustling today, it's probably because of the upswing of bloggers. Blogfest 2012, the second annual, by-invitation-only event that brings bloggers from across the country to NYC during Design Week, kicked off yesterday. The three-day event connects bloggers not only to each other, but to design and publishing professionals. It's sponsored by some industry heavyweights, including Kravet, Lee Jofa and Brunschwig & Fils. For a complete list of sponsors, click here.

This morning the 170+ bloggers enjoyed private tours and visits with Veranda, House Beautiful and Elle Decor. Here's what in store for them this afternoon:

-Lunch at Lee Jofa, sponsored by Traditional Home with special guests Keith Granet and Robert Brown

-A Traditional Home Event at Kravet, hosted by Editor in Chief Ann Maine, featuring Alexa Hampton

-A Visit to the Brunschwig & Fils Showroom, followed by a cocktail reception and preview of the soon-to-open Baccarat Showroom.

As seen in: Elle Decor

Earlier this week we saw some great DDB showrooms and products in the May issue of Elle Decor. Thomas Jayne and Katie Ridder selected an armoire by Julia Gray, and a Ralph Lauren Home end table, below:


Ralph Lauren Paint:




Romo:


Maya Romanoff:


Fabrics from Duralee, Clarence House, Ralph Lauren Home, Kravet and Manuel Canovas, Brunschwig & Fils, Fabricut, de le Cuona, Pollack and Zimmer + Rohde:

Meet the blogger: Mindy Miles Greenberg

This morning we're meeting Mindy Miles Greenberg, of EncoreDecor who will be joining the DDB's Spring Market Bloggers Lounge in just 9 days...

Where are you from? I am a native New Yorker that stumbled on home design after many years working in retail store display/design.

What did you do before blogging? I've collaborated with world class organizations like: Louis Vuitton, Donald Trump, Benjamin Moore, Hilton and even Ringling Bros. on the branding and presentation of their property. All my past employers have taught me how to stretch creative boundaries and re-define the definition of "design". It always amazed me that each product manufacturer, store owner or mall management company had such a unique vision of what they wanted to convey to their target consumer. I was hired to make their "image", actually happen on the store level. I am fortunate to have had many mentors. Soon after I turned my focus to working in homes, I was invited to be on a regular segment on HGTV, which lasted many years.

How long have you been blogging? I launched my blog about three years ago as a way of connecting with the design world, reaching out to my past clients and because I wanted to do it as a personally fulfilling creative journey. 

What's your blogging schedule like? My posting frequency happens organically, not on schedule. I don't post daily, but make sure my posts are filled with content that reflects my point-of-view. Sometimes it takes hours to create a post, but I guess it takes that long to create a multi-course meal - so since posts live-on in cyberspace, it's time well spent!

Favorite showrooms at the DDB? I love shopping the DDB. All my time there is project driven, so I don't rush home to blog about the latest and greatest every night but save it up for a day with less excitement. It's hard to keep-up with the demands of running a design firm, so I have a file-pile that has ads, papers, fabrics, ideas, etc. that's my go-to for inspiration. Some of my favorite haunts are: Kravet, Romo, Creation Baumann and Lewis Mittman. I love the modern lines by Windsor Smith and Kelly Wearstler.

How do you shop the building? I always spend some time checking out the entrance window displays to make sure I don't miss anything new. My usual routine is to take the elevator to the top floors and walk down.

What else should we know about you? With my blog, Twitter and all the other social media outlets, my reading has been mostly on the computer. I do love to attend events, and thanks to the DDB's design community, there are so many opportunities to meet, greet, mingle and learn. Fact-taking for posts very much reminds me of note-taking in school - it didn't come naturally, but I worked hard to make the grade.  Since the world has changed at such a fast pace, I love the idea of being about to speak my mind, break the rules and be myself using this blogging medium. And since it's my name on the front door, I have nobody to answer to! It's a wonderfully liberating creative endeavor.

Sample Sale Alert: Furniture Sample Sale at Kravet & Lee Jofa

Both the Kravet and Lee Jofa showroom at the PDC are hosting furniture sample sale until supplies last.

Significant savings on products are available, so make your way over to the Kravet showroom in Suite B624 and the Lee Jofa showroom in Suite B639 at the PDC and start shopping!

In the News: Gastón y Daniela Now Available Exclusively Through Kravet

Gastón y Daniela, the beautiful Spanish textile house that we simply cannot get enough of, has made an exclusive agreement with Kravet for US distribution, and we've got to admit that we're thrilled.

Founded 135 years ago, Gastón y Daniela is a European interiors brand based in Spain. Its collections are full of color and texture, and appeal to markets all over the world.

"Kravet Inc., with its absolute commitment to quality and customer service, will allow Gastón y Daniela to reinforce its already recognizable presence in the American market," said Miguel Angel Guisado of Gastón y Daniela.

Make your way over to the Kravet showroom at the DDB, PDC, DCOTA or DCH to get your hands on Gastón y Daniela textiles that will surely make your winter months beautiful.

Product Pick: Maharaja by LIZZO

We recently took a virtual tour to India with the latest collection from LIZZO. The collection of fabrics is inspired by the lavish, luxurious lifestyle of the ancient Maharajas and their patronage of India's rich culture, art and spirituality.

The Maharaja collection from LIZZO is destined for richly decorated settings with ornamental highlights. We love the way the modern colors combine with antique elements, merging silks, velvets and glossy satins.

You can find LIZZO's collection online at Kravet or in Kravet showrooms at the DDB, PDC, DCOTA or DCH.

In the News: Kravet Names New Executive Vice President at Kravet

We hope you’ll join us in congratulating Beth Greene to Executive Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Branding for Kravet.

“I have had the pleasure to work with Beth for 10 years now and can personally attest to her drive, her creativity and spirit which has allowed her to rise through the ranks and which makes her so deserving of this promotion," said Ann Feldstein, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications of Kravet.

Beth was hired by Kravet nearly 20 years ago to create an in-house marketing department, and through the years, she has helped to drive the success of Kravet and Lee Jofa. She is responsible for all marketing efforts including advertising, web marketing, direct mail, public relations and special events for both companies.

Beth has also led the company to an award-winning print advertising campaign for Kravet Fabrics and Furniture. She is the voice of the Kravet Inc. organization and is charged with keeping the image of Kravet, Lee Jofa and the recently acquired Brunschwig & Fils consistent and top of mind with the interior design trade and their clients.

Barbara Barry's 'Indochine' for Kravet

Fresh from her tour of the Orient, Barbara Barry's Asian-influenced collection Indochine is now available exclusively through Kravet. The Indochine collection consists of fabrics, trimmings, carpet, drapery hardware and wall coverings inspired by the colors, textures and patterns of Asia. To read more, click here.

Barbary Barry Introduces 'Indochine' for Kravet

Fresh from her tour of the Orient, Barbara Barry's Asian-influenced collection is now available exclusively through Kravet. The Indochine collection consists of fabrics, trimmings, carpet, drapery hardware and wall coverings inspired by the colors, textures and patterns of Asia.

Barbara translated her signature subdued color palette into new combinations based on the ancient colors of Asia: lotus and silver; lacquer and blanc de chine; gold and fig. Balancing tonal and textural elements, her fabrics range from sheers, light linens and silks to rich wovens, damasks, chenilles and embroideries. Color influences like the red lacquer doors of the Forbidden City, intricate stitching and French knots add luxury and convey the rich aesthetic of the Asian culture.

"Asia has been a large influence on me and my work because of its ancient culture, the graciousness of its people and the way they use and relate to nature," said Barbara. "Indochine has so many different moods to it and in the hands of designers I know that it will unfold in compelling ways."

View the collection at Kravet or stop by the Kravet showroom at the DDB, PDC, DCOTA or DCH.

Random Encounters: Brice Gaillard

Spotted in the D&D Building, Brice Gaillard was wearing her designer hat—but on other days, she's a stylist, and still other days, a freelance writer. When Go Design Go found her, the native Floridian was stepping into Kravet on the hunt for bold drapery textiles for a Westchester project. We're betting it took her forever to make it to those wings since she could barely make it past the entrance displays without stopping to compliment what she saw. She grabbed a couple throw pillows in a pattern called Jerry and rattled off her to-do list for the afternoon. After Kravet, she'd visit Pindler & Pindler, which she said had many affordable options, Duralee, Robert Allen/Beacon Hill and Fabricut, which she loves for its patterned fabrics. Before parting, Brice pointed the overscale floral, which was framed and mounted on the showroom walls. "I really like the idea of fabric or wallpaper as art," she said. Have you ever done that in a project, we asked? "Only for editorial!"

Fresh, sophisticated, spirited and modern…

Fresh, sophisticated, spirited and modern… Seychelles, the latest collection from Echo Design is inspired by textiles from around the world: ikats, suzanis, paisleys, linens, indigos and stripes - reinvented in fresh modern colors on linens and cottons. To further enhance the beauty of the collection, there are coordinating upholstery fabrics as well as multi purpose weaves. The fabrics reflect the very of-the-moment ethnic trend and are perfect for upholstery, drapery, bed coverings and accessories.

Kravet is Proud to Announce...

A new collection with Thom Filicia! One of House Beautiful’s Top 100 Designers, Filicia is best known for his high profile interior design work for clients such as Jennifer Lopez and the W Hotel chain, as well his work as a producer and designer on television shows such as Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Dress My Nest, and Tacky House.

He is known for his thoughtfully personalized interiors, which feature richly layered textures and colors for a lived-in yet highly sophisticated look. His new fabric collection for Kravet introduces a style, he says, that is "fresh, modern and accessible" and “empowers consumers to express their unique personalities through design.” The collection features prints and weaves in both timely and timeless patterns and colors such as yellow, grey, blue, orange, and natural.

“Wearing the Green”

What better way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and the coming of Spring than to dress your rooms in cottons and linens all in a palette taken straight from the emerald isle. These fresh, charming patterns, have a painterly quality and could spark a new color scheme or spruce up an existing one. Tour the D&D today. It’s easy being green. Look for this timeless color in all the top showrooms. And while you’re at it, look for new collections with eco-friendly “green” fabrics.

By Carolyn Sollis, Contributing Editor for Editor-at-Large.

Image Credits:

Above

Blithfield Collection at Lee Jofa, BFC 3521-3 (flower/lattice)

Below

1. Lisa Fine Collection at John Rosselli

left: Malula MAL/07, color Neem

right: Chiara, CH1/07, color Neem (fern)

2. Camilla David Collection at John Rosselli, 1004/048, Eucalyptus, linen

with embroiderey

3. Kathryn M. Ireland Collection at John Rosselli

L to R clockwise:

Scroll Sanibel S-204, green on white, 100% cotton

French Ticking 4506, green, 100% cotton (stripe)

Papoose Sanibel S-103, green on white, 100% cotton (dots/star)

Scroll Sheer Sanibel S-405 green on white, 100% linen

4. Studio Bon at Schumacher, Oompa, color 07, 100% linen, hand print

(big dots)

Check out these other "Green" lines at:
Creation Baumann, Suite 1522
Kravet, Suite 324
Q Collection, Suite 1500