This month's round up of product news from SBID Accredited partners features flexible furnishing options for learning environments, durable multi-format flooring collections with new natural oak designs, and the latest distinctive wallpaper styles for the coming season!
KI's Hatton chair is the perfect fit for hybrid learning environments
As part of a refurbishment project for Dutch secondary education school, Projectum Inrichten B.V. were instructed to create a hybrid learning environment that supports innovative pedagogical methods where students can work on their own or in several groups; the concept of the space was to focus on the wellbeing of students and teachers to inspire them during studies. KI's Hatton chairs were specified by interior designer Marloes Miltenburg for three of the new learning squares.
The chairs were chosen as their design complemented the environment, whilst providing functionality and comfort. The elegant, streamlined silhouette of these chairs is created with a 100% recyclable, one-piece injection-moulded polypropylene/glass fibre blend. Its built-in UV protection makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Strong, comfortable and light, they are stackable and the subtle curved backrest features an integrated grab handle to make the chair easy to move around and quickly reconfigure a space.
Click to shop
New distinctive wallpaper designs by Linwood for Autumn/Winter 2020
The Hampshire-based family business straddle the worlds of creativity and innovation to produce distinctive collections of fabrics and wallpapers that are bursting with fresh ideas. New for the season, this selection of wallpapers have been carefully curated by the creative team. Printed in the UK, the nine new designs retain the quality and artistry that Linwood are renowned for, while offering customers a range of diverse styles. Many are hand painted in their Hampshire studio, and designs range from contemporary to classical. From stylish, tonal wallpapers with dramatic, undulating waves or intricate mirrored-designs that feature dragons, mountains and oriental landscapes, to an explosive mix of palms and beautiful blooms; the decorative designs are perfect for making an interior statement.
Karndean Designflooring introduces first multi-format collection with new natural oak designs
Karndean Designflooring is introducing its new look multi-format Van Gogh collection with natural wood looks available in both rigid core and gluedown luxury vinyl formats, as well as its first herringbone designs in a rigid core specification.
Designed to offer interior designers, architects and contractors greater flexibility, it means the same design can be specified in either gluedown or rigid core across different environments as part of the same project. Whilst rigid core is the format of choice for wellness and wellbeing with its K-Core® technology helping to reduce sound transfer to rooms below by 21dB, gluedown is most recognised for its flexibility in design with bespoke cuts, laying patterns and added design features available.
The new look collection features the brand’s most recognised contemporary and classic designs in a standard 48” x 7” size, as well as welcoming six designs inspired by European oaks and American barnwood in a larger 56” x 9” plank and four exclusive 28” x 7” herringbones.
Providing colour confidence with Craig & Rose Colour Patch
The innovative self-adhesive paint colour samples allows you to effortlessly test out colour options in your own home. Colour Patch is designed to help you find your colour confidence and visualise your choices without the fuss of wet paint.
The way we see colour is impacted by a number of factors such as the amount of natural and artificial light in the room and also surrounding materials and finishes. Each 20cm x 20cm Colour Patch can be moved to different walls and reapplied to new locations and by using this method you will get a true understanding of how the colour will look. For convenience, Colour Patches can be ordered online with free delivery and this clever new product is available in 60 of Craig & Rose's favourite shades so choosing great colour for your home has never been so easy!
If you'd like to feature your product news here, get in touch to find out more.
From the flooring to the furniture, this month's round up of product news from SBID Accredited partners has got you covered. Featuring new variations of natural limestone floors, an impressive collection of ceramic wall tiles and luxuriously handcrafted furniture inspired by great American design movements.
Karndean Designflooring introduces five new stone designs
Karndean Designflooring is celebrating the understated colour tones found in natural limestone by introducing five new stone designs to its modern Korlok collection. The new limestone hues create a neutral backdrop for any interior design scheme!
Designed to offer quicker installation times and enhanced acoustic benefits, it is the first time the brand has added stone to its rigid core portfolio. It enables architects, interior designers and contractors to specify a wood and stone rigid core design in the same space when looking to support wayfinding. Like all Karndean floors, the designs are handcrafted to reflect the understated colour tones found in natural limestone and have been developed to include subtle veining, delicate mottling and a chalky appearance to create a realistic finish.
The latest ceramic wall tile collection from Parkside
Designed in collaboration with a leading colour consultant, Matrix is the latest ceramic wall tile collection from specification company Parkside. Inspiring creativity, Matrix offers an unprecedented portfolio of 23 tile colours, available in matt or gloss finishes, accompanied by matching grouts and trims. With the Matrix collection, Parkside wanted to create a range of colours that would allow the design community to curate co-ordinated looks or mix and match colours to create striking design statements.
The Matrix colours were developed in collaboration with colour consultant Vanessa Konig, who wanted to ensure that they would complement natural materials as well as work across a range of environments; from warm, cosy restaurants and bars to more pared-back, minimalist designs.
Bette offers over 400 colours for bathroom inspiration
German bathroom manufacturer, Bette, offers its baths, shower trays and washbasins in over 400 colours and also creates bespoke colours for large projects. A new colour reference fan, featuring its most popular colours, is also available. Bette can create its bathroom components in over 400 colours because of the way its products are made. Each item is individually manufactured in titanium-steel, before its durable BetteGlaze enamel finish is applied and fired. Bette mixes colour pigments into the BetteGlaze enamel finish, prior to application, which is why such a huge range of colours, including gloss, matt, shimmering and glittering options, are available.
Bette’s unique finish not only allows over 400 colour options, but the glazed titanium-steel results in products that keep their good looks for many years, are easy to clean, 100% recyclable and come with a 30 year warranty, making them ideal for both contract and residential projects.
Luxury furniture brand, Linea Luxe offer bespoke service for any brief
Linea Luxe believe that all life’s greatest luxury products can only be crafted by hand. Attention to detail, care and respect for how they treat each creation allows the masterpiece to develop. With an experienced team that works with the best tools and latest technology, they employ traditional techniques learnt from a lifetime of experience. Every piece that leaves the workshop carries with it a sense of pride and commitment that it has been produced in the best possible way.
Their collections have been inspired by the great American design movements covering Retro, Art Deco, Mid Century and Regency periods; taking inspirations from the design icons of the time and adding a unique modern twist. Linea Luxe produce case goods and upholstered items, all made 100% in the UK. In addition to their furniture collection, they are also known for bespoke and one-off furniture with a skilled team to take almost any brief and effortlessly transition idea to reality.
Elite Stone showcases its 'Bond' Calacatta Borhini interior collection
Elite Stone curate innovative spaces in the kitchen and living area to create unique environments in perfect harmony. The kitchen enters more and more into the living space, becoming the cradle of conviviality. ‘Bond’ Calacatta Borghini interior collection is produced in marine multi-layered wood with a maple coating and backlit E-Light panels to light up the space. The exterior is entirely covered in washable quality leather, with hand stitching and steel handle inserts. A contemporary design with an illuminated sliding-top that opens up a worktop with integrated sink. The island, which can be opened from all sides, includes several extractable cupboards and internal drawers, and is complete with appliances with a smart ‘knock-to-open’ opening functionality. At the centre, an evocative winery space with a double door that can be opened fully to create a precious and modern lounge bar inside the home.
With lockdown lifting, projects resuming and new clients on the horizon, we're sharing the latest product news from SBID Accredited Partners. Featuring premium, Mother of Pearl decorative wall panels; a table collection inspired by a new wave of Brazilian music, and an ecological collection of advanced natural paints with sustainable options for any project!
Introducing Siminetti's Mother of Pearl decorative panels
Siminetti’s Mother of Pearl Decorative Panels are the next generation in Mother of Pearl surface finishes. Handcrafted by Siminetti’s team of artisans, the ‘Golden Pearl Drop’ Decorative Panels capture the stunning natural beauty of Mother of Pearl that has for centuries been associated with luxury, sophistication and elegance. Utilising a combination of Siminetti’s ‘Bianco’ and ‘Golden Promise’ Mother of Pearl, every panel carries its own bespoke appeal.
Produced from fully sustainable Freshwater and Saltwater Pearl, each decorative panel is assembled to the clients exacting dimensions and can be produced in almost any shape up to maximum size of 240cm x 120cm. The individual Mother of Pearl pieces are hand placed onto a lightweight, robust, honeycomb backing which ensures they are also fully waterproof, making the decorative panels not only suitable for kitchen splashbacks and furniture inlays, but equally wet-room and shower environments. Siminetti Decorative Panels are the luxurious alternative to tiles and are available in over 30 stunning designs. Siminetti also offers a bespoke design service, allowing Designers, Architects and Specifiers to develop their own unique style.
Cox London presents the Siren Chair for Collect at Somerset House
The Siren Chair was created by Cox London for Collect at Somerset house in March 2020. This generously proportioned chair is traditionally upholstered with natural lamb’s wool for great comfort, supported by sculptural cast-bronze arms and a forged iron frame. Both visceral and flocculent, the beguiling chair is signed and numbered by the artist. Special editions available in different finishes and different fabrics. The founders, Christopher and Nicola Cox take inspiration from the great traditions and techniques of making; their work is craft orientated, sculpture based and infused with historical references.
Christopher and Nicola make their artwork and furniture in their north London atelier and workshop. Having studied fine art sculpture together they set up their studio early in 2000, they have since taken on a wide variety of commissions from the worlds of fine art, craft and interior decoration to produce bespoke or limited-edition pieces that combine creativity with the best of British craftsmanship and artistry. Cox London’s unique designs are on display in their Pimlico and North London showroom’s.
Kassavello features elite brand's Bossa table collection
The Bossa collection is taken from a range of curated products from the portfolio of elite brands that are available through luxury furniture design atelier Kassavello. Inspired by ‘Bossa Nova’, the new wave of musical genre and culture that emerged from Brazil in the 1950’s, the Bossa table collection is defined by a sleek finish and subtle curved edges. Constructed from high gloss solid mahogany wood with contrasting natural cane and matt mahogany detailing, these unique pieces are subtle enough to compliment a myriad of schemes whilst adding a distinctive sense of style and flair.
The Bossa square coffee table combines natural cane with a practical glass top whilst the Bossa side table is completed with an elegantly crafted inset matt veneer. Designed with flexible grouping in mind, the taller side tables combine beautifully with the shorter coffee table creating a stunning composition and centerpiece. Bespoke options and finishes are available across the collection.
A New Era for advanced natural paints with Graphenstone
As a customer rightly stated, "Graphenstone offers a range of stunning colours, all of them Green.” Using 100% recycled and recyclable packing and delivery materials, Graphenstone is proud to hold 'Cradle to Cradle Institute' Gold and Silver Certifications, as the ultimate validation of its dedication to green products and processes. With natural ingredients combined with graphene technology, Graphenstone offer the most advanced, durable and ecological ranges of paint available on the UK market. The absence of toxicity makes the paints virtually odourless. LEED, WELL and BREEAM Compliant, Graphenstone’s products are ideal for any large or small-scale project seeking healthy and sustainable paint options with trusted certifications.
Ana Azevedo, founder of SBID Accredited Partner, Kassavello shares her insight into the interior design industry as a supplier of high-end brands and bespoke furniture solutions to interior designers.
What is your current job?
I head up Kassavello’s London office and manage sales and customer relations with particular focus on the interior design community. I founded Kassavello with my business partner Renata in 2015. We offer a selection of curated products from elite brands and bespoke furniture to interior designers, architects and end clients.
What is your background and how did you get into interior design?
My previous career was in business management within the hospitality sector where I managed a number of high-profile restaurants and bars. I had always had a passion for design but having exposure to such a variety of prestigious venues ignited my interest and I enrolled in a series of interior design courses at the University of Arts in London. Moving from client-side within hospitality to client-management within design was a hugely rewarding transition where I was able to transfer and combine old and new skills whilst working in a creative industry that is constantly evolving and never fails to inspire me.
Describe an average day in your job role..
My business partner Renata is based in Portugal, the location of our key suppliers and manufacturers and it’s critical that we stay aligned at all times so that there’s a consistent and seamless workflow. Every day begins with a video conference call where we run through current priorities, project status and actions required. I then follow up client-side, more often than not this is with a UK based interior designer, on any decisions required for bespoke furniture production such as discussing design detailing or scheduled fabric deliveries. Whilst we often receive DWG drawings from our clients, we always produce detailed technical drawings for approval working closely with a team of dedicated craftspeople in Portugal who have decades of experience and can often propose sleek solutions to practical design problems. Most days also bring new enquiries which I follow up on often whilst juggling the logistics of overseeing white glove installation on site. I also dedicate time each week to keep abreast of industry trends and developments too as its critical that designers can trust us to be one step ahead of the game when it comes to innovation and evolution within the luxury design space.
Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most and/or find the most rewarding?
We frequently use different artisans to deliver individual elements for one piece of furniture – for example an exquisite brass handle crafted by an exemplary metal artisan combined with beautifully inlaid veneer from our expert team of joiners. Facilitating a designer’s unique vision through our trusted network of craftspeople is always rewarding when you see the vision from conceptual drawings through to final installation.
Is there anything new you are excited to be working on?
We’re currently working on a proposal for a significant number of bespoke items for a project in Malta in collaboration with one of our favourite designers. She has a passion for bold design and colour and is always looking to push the boundaries in terms of shape and form which is thrilling for us and the team of experts that we work with. There’s nothing like a creative challenge!
What do you find the most challenging aspects of your job?
Managing expectation versus budget is a familiar challenge to everyone in the industry and our sector is no exception. Our clients consistently want to deliver exceptional pieces but sometimes you have to set expectations and find the best solution in terms of materials or a design tweak that offer a very good result and one that also comes in on budget!
The logistics of delivery can also be very challenging. Whilst we work with outstanding white glove delivery teams, we can often be faced with logistical issues and dependencies on a 3rd party in terms of access or red tape, particularly in central London. Always surmountable but always a challenge!
What do you wish you knew before working in the field?
How much attention to detail interior designers have. This is certainly not a criticism, in fact far from it - we work with some exceptional designers who can sometimes request a change of design equivalent to a few millimetres. When we first developed the business, we had no idea how particular clients could be but with the benefit of experience behind us we are now able to guide and collaborate on those decisions, knowing when they will and when they won’t matter to the stability or aesthetics of a piece.
What would you tell your younger self if you had the chance?
Follow your gut feeling… if a project or a client does not feel right, it probably isn’t
What has been your favourite project to work on?
We were very fortunate to be given the opportunity to work on an exceptional project in Kuwait with an end client who had no budget constraints and an appetite for luxurious finishes and styling. Having the opportunity to work alongside her and her family to furnish their beautiful villa was a design dream and allowed us to select hand-crafted pieces that are rarely accessible but are truly timeless heirloom items.
Conversely, we recently worked on a project in Chelsea with high client expectations but challenging budget constraints. We spent a lot of time with the designer developing solutions and alternatives that did not detract from the exceptional result that was required and ultimately delivered – hugely rewarding.
What do you think is the biggest problem the interior design industry faces?
The access to information for end clients via social media has become overwhelming. It can make the decision- making process extremely drawn out when the client suddenly spots something new they love, or when they have seen a cheap copy of an atelier piece of furniture and fail to appreciate the value in the time and craftsmanship that is put into bespoke pieces. It’s something that the industry is working hard to address and a conversation that we are always happy to be a part of. With close and long-standing relationships with some of Europe’s finest artisans we absolutely appreciate the skill and dedication that goes into every piece of bespoke furniture.
Who do you admire the most in the industry and why?
In terms of furniture design, Kelly Wearstler is a personal favourite of mine. Her curation of vintage, contemporary and architectural forms within her pieces is truly exceptional. She is always innovative, inspirational and evolutionary – outstanding traits in a designer that consistently pushes the boundaries and is a leading industry narrator. Architecturally it has to be Joseph Dirand, his eye for volume and space underpinned by classical proportion is unsurpassed – a true master of his craft.
Want to become SBID Accredited? Click here for more information.
As designers, it's important to maintain motivation and keep finding the inspiration to fuel your fire during these uncertain times. This month's edition of the Interior Edit brings you the latest product news and interior product inspirations from SBID Accredited Industry Partners. Featuring a colourful collection of printed velvet fabrics, an inspired and aesthetic range of electrical fittings, as well as a new striking leather look for luxury seating.
Modern lightness meets the de Sede heritage with new DS-531 range
DS-531 combines the requisite modern lightness with the heritage of de Sede. This versatile family of seats in an unmistakable patchwork design combines everything that sets our craftsmanship apart: tradition and innovation, creativity and experience, passion and high-tech. This passion gives rise to comfortable, cozy seating options, with flowing shapes and a striking leather look that will blend in everywhere.
With a lowered sitting position and modern, stitched leather design, the sweeping frame construction and wooden supporting base for the seat cushions are the simple structural elements of these contemporary sculptures. They are available both as three-seater and as a cozy armchair with head section and stool.
Focus SB launches Kelly Hoppen's debut electrical accessories collection
Focus SB launched an exquisite collection of luxury ‘wall jewellery’ in collaboration with the multi-award-winning designer, Kelly Hoppen MBE. Focus SB’s MD, Gary Stevens says: “From the moment I first met with Kelly it was like a breath of fresh air and she was bursting with new ideas for what is a relatively conservative and mature product sector.”
This is the first collection of electrical accessories designed by Kelly Hoppen MBE who comments: “Interior fittings such as light switches and plug sockets are often not considered until the end of a project, but these details can add an extra touch and shouldn’t be overlooked. The world of electrical wiring accessories is generally very conservative, but I wanted to create something that would very much be part of the overall design, introducing jewellery-like details and alternative finishes. This collaboration with Focus SB introduces a new aesthetic to electrical fittings in a way we haven’t previously seen.”
Linwood Fabric introduces its new collection of printed velvet fabrics
New for Spring/Summer 20, Omega Prints II by Linwood Fabric is an alluring collection of printed velvet fabrics. This beautiful addition to our much loved Omega and Omega Prints ranges is presented in an enticing palette of fresh pastels and bold primary colours. The 15 exclusive designs range from small geometrics to painterly styles; inspired by a myriad of sources from Moroccan kilims to vintage Russian textiles. Inherently fire retardant and soft to the touch, these velvets drape beautifully but are also stain resistant and washable, ensuring upholstery has longevity.
Frette debuts its latest Style of Living pieces for Spring/Summer 2020
Storied luxury Italian linen brand Frette revealed the newest releases as part of its Style of Living assemblage, available both in-store and online since March 2020. The latest pieces continue to build upon the foundational collection and colourways of the Style of Living assemblage with signature motifs re-imagined in timeless, versatile shades of navy and opal blue. In addition, four new designs have been added to the bedding assortment this season. A new collection of classics that extend beyond the bedroom, Style of Living’s precise design formula, called “product agility,” was carefully developed to prioritise the agility of the product over passing seasonal trends while also allowing for nearly infinite design possibilities across generations – from minimalist to extravagant, from geometric to romantic and ornate.
Gillian Weir offer bespoke cashmere throws, blankets and cushions
Gillian Weir’s bespoke cashmere throws, blankets and cushions are custom made to suit your individual projects. With a palette of 75 shades and looms just under three metres wide, each piece is completely bespoke and is hand dyed, woven and finished in your preferred colour, size, weight and finish.
For a relaxed, rustic feel choose from one of eight tassel designs; for a sleek luxe look opt for a pure mulberry silk border or pick a cashmere binding for a more natural, contemporary style. Gillian Weir rarely make the same throw twice, offering a unique touch of luxury for the most exclusive interiors.
Sponsors of the SBID International Design Awards for the Residential House Under £1M category, Kassavello supply curated and bespoke luxury furnishing solutions for interior designers. The Director and founder, Ana Azevedo shares insight into how they work directly with designers to help them source the right furnishings for their projects.
What are the origins of your brand? Launched in 2015, myself and Renata Teixeira spotted the opportunity to bring high quality, handcrafted yet fairly-priced Portuguese furniture to the UK market. Kassavello has since become a luxury furniture design atelier dually based in both England and Portugal. Our roots are firmly entwined with Portuguese craftsmanship and artisanal design and, over time, the business has organically grown to encompass two complementary areas of expertise: Curated products from elite brands and Bespoke furniture production.
How do you work with interior designers? We offer a high-end, bespoke furniture design service for interior designers and architects that includes complex finishes and detailing. Our extensive portfolio of manufacturers have been carefully selected for their quality, reliability and craftsmanship and we frequently use different artisans to deliver individual elements of one piece to guarantee the highest possible standards of workmanship.
We also have an extensive portfolio of curated products from elite brands and often work closely with our clients to select items for their projects. Our services range from producing all technical drawings for bespoke projects, to personally organising and supervising shipping and installation.
What value does your sector add to the interior design industry?
We supply high-end furniture for both residential and commercial projects, offering a very personal and tailored service to help designers source the right furnishings for their projects. We believe that beautiful handcrafted furniture and design should be accessible to all. From covetable sofas to striking mirrors, our expert team have hand-picked the brands that we partner with and the curated pieces that we sell.
How does your offering enhance an interior designer’s projects?
With a strong focus on customer service, Kassavello offers a premium and tailored service. Working closely with discerning clientele and leading interior designers, we have developed a reputation for delivering products and designs of the highest calibre to residences across the world. We have a team of experts available to advise on every step of the process and we work collaboratively with our clients from specification phase to the installation of a project; ensuring a full level of support throughout the project development.
What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?
More recently, we are noticing that organic shapes and textured materials are increasing in popularity among our clients. Also, the desire to use natural materials like cane, stone and brass is growing significantly.
Why did you want to become a sponsor for the SBID Awards?
We wanted to sponsor the SBID Awards because it’s a very prestigious event that celebrates design and serves as a fantastic opportunity to network within our target market.
Sponsorship for the SBID International Design Awards 2020 is now open.
To find out more about becoming an SBID Awards sponsor next year click here or email [email protected]
Sponsors of the SBID International Design Awards for the Office Design category reveals how they help to create happy, healthy, high performing working and learning environments with their range of smart, contract furniture solutions for office, workplace and healthcare spaces. Jonathan Hindle, Group Managing Director E.M.E.A of KI tells us more...
What are the origins of your brand?
KI (Krueger International, Inc.) is headquartered in Wisconsin, USA; was founded in 1941, and has been a contract furniture manufacturer ever since. Fully employee-owned, KI has grown to become one of the world's largest, most respected furniture manufacturing groups. KI’s EMEA headquarters and showroom in Central London is supported by an established network of manufacturing facilities and distribution partners across the UK, Europe and the Middle East committed to providing customers with smart solutions for Workplace, Education and Healthcare Sectors.
How do you work with interior designers?
KI engages with interior designers and specifiers both directly and through a global network of showrooms and resellers. It has offered a unique Market of One manufacturing philosophy for many years and supports specifiers with the opportunity to design and build the furniture the want quickly and cost effectively through its Infinity programme. There are many online tools to assist designers such as See it Spec It, CAD and Revit Symbols, Image Libraries and Finishes options libraries to assist with Specification and Planning.
We provide a valuable furniture engineering design and manufacturing resource for workplace, education and healthcare interiors. KI’s furniture helps the world’s leading organisations create happy, healthy, high performing working and learning environments. We strive to improves productivity through the design and manufacture of furniture solutions which both optimise floor plans and stimulate users. We also know how diverse furniture requirements can be, so by working to understand what our client's need, we can deliver the ideal solution.
As above. Not only do our products represent cutting edge solutions to furniture requirements in workplace, education and healthcare environments, KI brings together good design, advanced engineering and sustainable resources to produce products that are durable, flexible and offer excellent value.
KI products can help designers meet client needs by improving productivity of the end-user through the design and manufacture of furniture solutions which both stimulate and provide efficiencies; meeting the demands of evolving workplaces. Customers throughout the world come to KI, not just for high-quality contract furniture but for the knowledge to make the right choices. Working with KI gives you access to our wealth of experience and innovation, so we can help you select the perfect furniture for the desired application.
KI Europe has recently introduced the 800 Series Shelving System, designed to offer a flexible platform for designers to divide space in open plan offices with shelving systems providing a domestic aesthetic. We have introduced a new seating range utilising the latest injection moulding techniques to provide flexible comfort and a lightweight aesthetic called Grafton, a new injection moulded dining chair called Hatton an enhancement to the market leading education seating range Postura+ providing fully recycled plastic options and a new generation Sit/Stand Collection of desking and benching called Work 2.1 to meet the evolving requirements for enhanced wellness across major organisations.
We wanted to engage with the SBID in order to better promote KI’s capabilities and desire to work with the world leading design practices which the SBID attract.
We interviewed the SBID International Design Awards sponsor for the Restaurant Design category. Adam Hout, International Director at Perennials and Sutherland speaks about how the brand has developed since 1944 when founder, David Sutherland embarked on a mission to transform the outdoor furniture industry. From Sutherland furniture to the launch of Perennials fabrics, the brand now showcases the best of its luxury performance fabrics and rugs, as well as high grade outdoor furniture.
The story begins over 40 years ago with David Sutherland who opened with his first multi-brand showroom in Houston. This was followed by a flagship showroom in Dallas. He was the first to bring high-end designs from the New York and Los Angeles markets to the booming Texas market. In 1994 David embarked on a mission with friend and collaborator John Hutton to transform the outdoor furniture industry by creating a collection of teak performance with a level of luxury and comfort never before seen outdoors. Sutherland pioneered tailored “deep-seating” cushions and was the first company to introduce fully upholstered outdoor collections. For David and John, it was time to bring indoor comfort and design to the outdoors which was revolutionary at the time. Only in recent years have others embraced this trend.
Creating the best outdoor furniture came with a problem, there were no outdoor fabrics luxurious enough! David partnered with his wife Ann to create outdoor fabrics which looked and felt natural, complementing nature and yet bringing luxury feel to the space. Perennials began as an outdoor fabric brand, but now it is a Luxury Performance fabric and rug brand, with much of its sales attributed to indoors, contract, and hospitality use. Perennials has grown substantially in that time and rightfully sits as the leader in luxury performance.
The company expanded its showrooms across the US and in 2017 opened a direct subsidiary in London UK; showcasing the best of Perennials performance fabrics, rugs, and Sutherland furniture. The strength of this company is in its multi-channel dynamic business model. P&S is a manufacturer, direct wholesaler to the trade industry, and private / white label manufacturer. It owes its success to the designers that it serves, and they remain the main focal point of the business.
We manufacture and wholesale highly technical products, therefore specification of our product by a qualified individual or company is the focus of our company. We want the end users to use and enjoy our products in the correct format, setting, and design – for this the designer becomes of paramount importance. We sell direct to the trade and collaborate with them to fulfil their requirements. We educate, train and support our professional clients to get the most out of our products. We believe in one to one relationships and always strive to individualise the service to our clients.
It was never Ann Sutherland’s initial intention for the outdoor fabrics to become indoor / contract fabrics. It was the designers themselves that began using Perennials fabrics for that purpose and this developed the brand into what it is known and respected for today. This shows that performance is important to designers and end users alike. The issue with performance fabrics is that more often than not, luxury feel will be compromised, usually encouraging the client to go with an indoor fabric for those spaces. That is where Perennials fabrics comes in. We manufacture velvets, linens, silks, bouclets; in complex designs and weave structures which look and feel convincingly natural. The compromise becomes negligible, the client can enjoy the feel of a luxury velvet whilst not worrying about stains.
This is possible through the Perennials yarn technology which is known as 100% Solution Dyed Acrylic. The colour is embodied within the fibre which makes it very difficult to separate the colour from the yarn, unlike traditional yarns where the dye is added later on. Think of a carrot that, when peeled, remains orange – the same can be said about the Perennials fibre. The fabric is inherently resistant to water, mould, bleach, UV, and almost any stain you can think of. The use of bleach allows the user to remove most stains. Our fibre also has an inbuilt Nano-seal technology which adds repellence, with liquids splashing off.
Many other fabrics in the industry are also called Performance fabrics: Polyester and Polypropylene being two examples. They do not perform anywhere near as well, the colour does not hold and the quality and feel is not comparable. Many brands will add performance through using chemical top sprays which simply do not last and are not desirable. Customers often ask about sustainability: my answer is that Perennials is highly sustainable because it lasts an extremely long time and can easily be re-purposed.
What makes Perennials so special is that we have over 130 fabric lines, qualities, and over 1000 SKU’s of fabric using this technology. Whatever the project; whether a restaurant, a yacht, or a residential sofa, the client does not have to compromise to get luxury and performance together: a strong value proposition indeed.
Our performance fabrics and rugs are not only an item of beauty, quality, and soft touch – but they bridge the gap into being a technology product. This enhances our client’s ability create a value proposition to their client. If something is beautiful, great, if it also more durable, cleanable, and will last longer than anything else, then even better!
Sutherland offers a unique aesthetic of understated luxury, combined with a focus on high grade raw materials, and comfort. The brand is world renown for bridging the gap between outdoor and indoor, not compromising on the outdoor area. Sutherland offers designers full customisation of product at a dedicated custom workshop. Whether you look to start from scratch or merely tweak an existing Sutherland piece, our product development team will partner with designers to create custom outdoor furniture guaranteed to be the perfect fit for your project.
The autumn trends appear to be embroidery, flowery prints, jacquard effects, and natural wool blends in fashion; and this has crossed over into the interiors industry. The Timothy Corrigan for Perennials collection reflects these trends well as do some of our longstanding natural weaves.
We want to give back to the industry and SBID is the perfect partner and platform for that. SBID is a shining light in the industry and is a strong facilitator for the the various participants.
The SBID International Design Awards winners for 2019 will be announced on Friday 25th October! Tables to attend this year's SBID Awards are now sold out, but a limited number of individual tickets are still available. Book a seat now! To find out more about sponsoring the SBID International Design Awards next year, email [email protected]
‘Wave’ wallpaper by Katie Ridder
Over the past six months, A-Gent of Style started noticing around him the ancient Asian pattern of the wave and also fish scales. Suddenly, these two scalloped designs seem to appear everywhere before him and A-Gent soon realised they were ubiquitous – in shops or restaurants, in the streets, in fashion, design and home magazines, online of course and many other appearances. What turned into a game of ‘spot-the-pretty-fish-scales-pattern’ almost ended up in an obsession and even hallucinations.
This is a compilation of all the images and photographs A-Gent of Style has accumulated featuring waves and fish scales in all their various shapes and representations.
Now, you too might start noticing them everywhere.....Will you catch the bug!?
Marion Cotillard in Jean-Paul Gaultier, Oscars, 2008
Jarrod Lim’s ‘Koi’ Chair
‘Pot Pourri’ wallpaper by Neisha Crosland
Le 1947 restaurant by Yannick Alléno, Le Cheval Blanc, Courchevel
‘Owl’ lantern by Soane
Korla’s ‘Grand Kyoto Koi’
Gate at Piccadilly Circus tube station, Glasshouse Street exit
‘Easton’ fabric by David Hicks, 1968
Danish cabinet by Julian Chichester (as seen at Decorex 2013)
‘Caducee’ clock by Jean Dunand, 1913 , estimate €100,000-120,000 at Felix Marcilhac auction, Sotheby’s, 11-12 March 2014 http://bit.ly/1dvv2Hl
‘Ecailles argent by Le Manach
Le Manach’s ‘Ecailles’ (as seen at Paris Deco Off 2014)
Dinner setting by Miles Redd
Urban Outfitters rug
Australian Aboriginal design
‘Coordonne’ tiles
Hartmann Risler et Cie (Rixheim), 1800
Gents at The Zedel restaurant, London
Finally, a shelf at home with some of A-Gent of Style‘s favourite packaging. Not strictly waves or fish scales, more of an (Art Deco) fan shape this time but that’s another blog post!
Author: Interior Designer Fabrice Bana, founder and editor of A-Gent of Style
It’s slightly unnerving to see familiar, everyday objects such as furniture and chairs in a museum or art gallery setting. I was reminded of this when I strolled around the Pop Art Design show at the Barbican.
But it also gives a sense of familiarity that I can spot items that wouldn’t be out of place in a Heal’s shop window or indeed any high-end furniture retailer. It’s also important to know where the original ideas and designs came from, as it gives a sense of history, continuity and respect for early designs.
Pop art exploded onto the scene in the late 1950s to early 10970s and it’s hard to imagine now the impact it had on the art and design world. Previously, much of what you found in the home was pretty drab, conservative and a grown-up’s idea of what good interior design should be.
The new movement of Pop didn’t give a damn. It was bright, fun and playful. The protagonists including Achille Castiglioni, Charles and Ray Eames and George Nelson threw caution to the wind, using the primary colours of childhood – bright reds, yellows and blue colour palettes.
Just looking at George Nelson’s Marshmallow sofa from 1956 () is so pleasing to the eye, with its vivid custard yellow and classic black colour scheme – and you just want to sit on it – which is surely the prime function of any sofa.
Pic 2. Evelyne Axelle, Ice Cream 1, 1964
The delightful image by Evelyne Axell, a Belgian Pop painter, takes us back to halcyon days when the highest form of pleasure was slurping on an ice cream – and not to imbue it with Freudian overtones. Sometimes licking an ice lolly is just that.
This is when we see the beginnings of the cult of celebrity and commodity fetishism. We also see the rise of sexual politics in furniture and design. Allen Jones’ Chair, 1969, of a woman in high heels, which you sit on, is probably the least offensive of his series of ‘furniture sculpture’. Personally, I want to take a hatchet to it, partly because it is demeaning and objectifies the female form, but also because it’s downright ugly.
The baton for the best ideas in Pop art has been passed on to new designers and artists, such as Kate Jenkins, who crochets a range of Pop art items including ketchup and mustard bottles as well as coke cans. It’s good to see that the influence of Pop art remains alive and thriving today.
What I do like about Pop is its play on words, the questioning of what makes for good interior design, as in Richard Hamilton’s 1956 collage Just what is it that makes today’s homes so different, so appealing? It blows the lid off the seriousness and lack of humour that was all the rage in the design world previously.
Author Fiona Keating, Editor at Inside Property
Join SBID
Find out more about our flexible membership structure.
By subscribing, you agree to be added to SBID’s mailing list. As an industry’s standard bearer organisation, we strive to bring you the most up to date news and access to exclusive industry content through our various newsletters.
First Name
Last Name
Email Address
I accept the SBID Terms of Use