Featured in Conjunction with NeoConnect, June 2020
CHICAGO (June 4, 2020) – Design Center at theMART is pleased to present dozens of fresh collections and products, being promoted by showrooms as part of NeoConnect, the dynamic digital hub launched on neocon.com.
Explore the latest product introductions and stay on the pulse of innovative design trends, courtesy of Design Center showrooms:
Baker Furniture (6-187)
The Luxe Collection for Baker is an authentic, fashion-forward assortment imbued with an eclectic mix of 1970’s modern. Infused with unique jewelry-like silhouettes and informed by an era of icons such as Yves Saint Laurent, Halston and Warhol, the collection represents a ready-to-wear approach to attainable luxury. In this collection, bold sculptural profiles pair effortlessly with modern forms, incorporating semi-precious materials that showcase Baker’s attention to detail. Clean, casual and comfortable, the Luxe Collection captures the essence of today’s trend-savvy lifestyles.
The new Barbara Barry Collection is inspired by Hawaiian and Scandinavian design sensibilities, celebrating the spirit of casual luxury. The color palettes, shapes and textures take cues from the harmony and calmness of nature. Quartered figured walnut plays a large role in the materiality story, and new finishes are introduced to bring in a fresh, neutral tones, including Mica, Coconut, Almond, Mercury, Flint, Silverlake and Dusty Amethyst.
From Baker’s origins as a humble cabinet shop in 1890 to the glamour of today’s global showroom openings, glittering Hollywood events and collaborations with world-renowned interior designers, Baker’s story is one that’s vital and evolving. Baker continues to set the standard for using the best methods for each piece. Quality at the core assures a form and feel that can only result from the highest standard of craftsmanship. The new additions to the Baker Originals Collections comprise 27 in-house-designed additions. The new introductions were created in classic forms, using unique materials such as bronze, Carrara marble, eggshell, eel skin, Murano glass and acrylic.
From left to right: Luxe Collection; Barbara Barry Collection; Baker Originals Collections
Bradley (6-157)
(From left to right: Saddle Los Triple Bench, available in 2 – 4 seat sizes; Double Bolster Dining Bobby Chair, also available in bar and counter height; Curved Counter Nelly Stool, available in counter height and bar height)
Forward Space : Studio (614)
West Elm Work Belle is a modular sectional that boasts beauty and brawn. Inspired by deco-era design and expertly tailored, its seat and wide channeled back stands up to commercial wear and tear. Better yet: it’s totally modular, able to adapt to the layout of your space. Designed by West Elm. Made by Steelcase.
Hardworking materials lend West Elm Work Greenpoint a workshop-crafted feel. Clean lines and fresh finishes reinvent the private office for a vibe that’s sleek, not stuffy. Named after a neighborhood near West Elm’s Brooklyn-based headquarters, Greenpoint Private Office offers a contemporary take on the private office with its distinct visual language and fresh materiality options.
Created in collaboration with UK-based designer James Harrison, this modern Wing Chair features a high back and extra-large winged sides to provide privacy in the workplace.
(From left to right: West Elm Work Belle, West Elm Work Greenpoint, West Elm Work chair “James Harrison”)
Innovations in Wallcoverings (6-130)
Embrace achingly cool innovation with Boa, a novel cork wallcovering with a raised metallic snakeskin print. Inventive application of a material typically used in the high-end fashion industry, elevates natural texture and brings a chic animalesque surface to walls.
Empress uses iridescent foil and a 3D raised-surface printing technique to create a captivating motif. Layering metallic and matte finishes with a subtle stripe, Empress deconstructs a classic floral with modern flair.
Inspired by tin ceilings permeating SoHo architecture, Innovations’ NY design studio created Blossom. An elegant non-woven, Blossom spotlights rich embossing and deep metallic variations for a masculine twist on a romantic floral.
(From left to right: Boa, Empress and Blossom from Innovations in Wallcoverings)
Kravet (6-121)
The newest fabric collection from Kravet Contract, Ardsley Court, is designed to perform in the toughest commercial environments. Each yarn is fully encapsulated to resist moisture, stains, bacteria and odor. From healthcare to senior living, or hotels and restaurants this collection is ideal for all interiors where performance is paramount. Ardsley Court utilizes Crypton technology, which makes it extremely easy to clean but can also extend the life of furnishings up to seven years. This durable collection of fabric offers transitional designs in plush chenille and textures with fresh colors to enhance interiors in a variety of scale. Made in the USA and 99% Fluorine-free, Ardsley Court is also in our exclusive Guaranteed in Stock program to meet time sensitive deadlines.
Kravet Contract introduces a new book of durable fabrics, Inside Out Performance Fabrics®. These fabrics were designed with modern living in mind, combining luxury and performance. Think poolside, spa, restaurants, lobby areas, guest rooms as well as any high UV areas. Beautiful and soft body cloths ranging from chenille, to linen-looks, herringbone, boucle and velvet – all exceeding ACT standards. In a crowded and confusing performance fabric market, Kravet Contract has made it simple by launching the first All-In-One Performance fabric that provides your customers “go-to” performance fabrics that will satisfy every need – no matter the end use or the performance required.
Heyward Textures, a new collection of upholstery fabric, emulates the look and feel of linen. These versatile fabrics are designed to fit an array of interiors and are perfect as a foundation in any setting. Three sophisticated textures including a subtle chenille, linen-like slub and a modern classic weave are offered in a natural and contemporary color palette. Hues range from neutrals and grays to minty greens, steel blues, citrine and lilac. These durable textures are widely applicable to hospitality and commercial projects. Exceeding 50,000 double rubs, Heyward Textures also has the added benefit of Kravet Armor performance finish for maximum cleanability and stain resistance.
(From left to right Ardsley Court, Inside Out Performance Fabrics, Heyward Textures)
Samuel & Sons Passementerie (6-168)
Captivated by the tranquility of Bali’s pearlescent white sands with crystal clear water, terraced rice fields, rainforests and mystical valleys, the Samuel & Sons Design studio created Bali, a collection of trimmings influenced by the aesthetic of the lush natural environment.
This Celestial collection of embroidered, laser-cut, hand-beaded and applique borders emerged from the artistic collaboration of the Samuel & Sons Design Studio and a group of distinctive artisans. Intrigued by the landscape of the night sky, the Samuel & Sons Design Studio set out to explore unique materials reminiscent of otherworldly luminosity.
Tiverton is a classical collection of passementerie composed of a hand-tied pear bead fringe with a scalloped header, delicate corded gimp, Twill Gimp and Border as well as two crepe cords. These trimmings are complemented by a tri-color fan edge and pinstriped gimp. A coordinating Pleated Border with picot edges completes this ensemble.
(From left to right: Bali, Celestial and Tiverton collections)
Scalamandré (6-132)
Whether your preference is beachside or poolside, or possibly gazing out from the loggia, the Old World Weavers Elements VI collection decorates it all. Along with statement patterns, Scalamandré offers a wide range of small scaled contemporary designs for broad use in seating. Named for the beautiful white and black sanded beaches on Tenerife and Costa Rica, the serenity of these blue oceans calls us back.
Designed to imitate the appearance of a traditional grasscloth wallcovering, these styles provide the charming aesthetic one seeks from grasscloth but without the delicacy. Grassland Vinyl Wallcoverings provide easy maintenance and exceed the Type II contract specifications, making them ideal for high traffic contract and hospitality areas in need of a durable product that adds character and warmth.
Lelièvre, a family-owned company based in Paris, offers professional interior designers and architects a vast array of the finest quality textiles and wallcoverings, Lelièvre Contract 24 Collection features bold color and innovative looks, from classical to contemporary, including collaborations with the fashion world.
(From left to right: Old World Weavers Element VI Collection, Grassland Vinyl Wallcoverings and Lelièvre Contract 24 Collection)
Zoffany (6-117A)
Anthology introduces Volume 07, an evocative collection of ten wide-width wallcoverings that further explore man’s interaction with the natural world, unearthing abundant inspiration and endless possibilities.
Antiquary is a stunning portfolio of 10 prints, weaves and embroideries. Zoffany’s AW19 launch is a feast for the senses, a designer’s companion of vivacious, adaptable fabrics and wallpapers inspired by art, history and travel.
In this latest collection, Harlequin adds three new books to its successful Momentum range, with the launch of Momentum 6 Wallpapers, Momentum 11 Upholstery and Momentum 12 Drapes, where architectural elements and the subtleties of nature entwine with inspiration from leading hotels of the world.
Inspired by the Silk Road, Sanderson Caspian opens up a world of intriguing and captivating delights with its exotic fusion of versatile designs. Featuring three beautiful embroideries, nine authentic prints, eight dramatic weaves and 13 striking wallpapers, Caspian’s dynamic color palette is influenced by natural dye colors such as Madder, Indigo, Turmeric and Saffron running through to the subtle tones of Linen, Ivory and Charcoal.
(From left to right: Anthology, Antiquary, Harlequin and Sanderson Caspian collections)
Artisan Electronics Group (1486)
From left to right: Custom home cinema designs; Design, Build and Install complete custom home cinema rooms, from Drawings to Dreams come true)
Ebanista (1457)
Hand-carved Lemaire lounge chair with turned legs and reeded base in antiqued and distressed 22K gold finish with 12K Borghese detailing. Antiqued gold nail head trim along inside back. Loose seat cushion with self-welt. Includes one standard back pillow 19″W x 14″H with knife-edge and self-welt.
Tufted tight-back Marchese Sofa. Single bench seat cushion with decorative cording. Hand-carved reeded base and six decorative legs in antiqued and distressed 22K gold finish. Includes four standard 22″W x 22″H throw pillows with knife-edge and decorative cording.
Wrought iron Guerlain cocktail table. Shown in antiqued 22K gold finish with segmented antiqued mirror top.
(From left to right: Lemaire Chair, Marchese Sofa and Guerlain cocktail table)
HOLLY HUNT (1428)
The Imola Cocktail Table is a dynamic and versatile living room center piece conceived to be transformed into many custom versions from rectangular to asymmetrical. The exquisitely finished lower and upper tops are separated by elegant, fluid forms finished with deep grain that invites the touch.
The iconic outdoor Omura Lounge Chair has been reinterpreted for the indoors in a flawless, polished stainless-steel frame. Generous cushions are suspended using beautiful saddle leather straps available in 2 colors.
A sculptural, organic expression of ever-changing shapes. The biomorphic sibling of the larger, more geometric Rogue Side Table, Ronin is made from cast bronze. In its interior, this bronze has been rubbed to reveal the light-catching properties of its material; the contrasting exterior features a deep, rich patina. Taken together, these elements offer a unique and actively shaped design for an entertaining or living space.
(From left to right: Imola Cocktail Table, Omura Lounge Chair and Ronin Drink Table)
Scott Group Studio (14-129)
From left to right: Karri – From the Empire Collection by Hokanson; Agata with silk – From the Escala Collection by Scott Group Custom Carpets; and Cambrian – From the Basho Collection by Scott Group Custom Carpets)
Wired Custom Lighting (14-132)
The Verga lighting pendant has a contemporary aesthetic adding a luxe sophistication yet industrial atmosphere to any interior. Refined Industrial chandeliers are dominating current interior design trends.
The Nash Pendant features mahogany tone shapes in a geometric sculpture bringing class and richness to the interior design composition.
Dazzling lights like the rays of the sun. This handmade chandelier called Fuoco blends luxe sophistication and maximalism fundamentals for an illuminating fixture that complements both contemporary and traditional decor. Glass with class!
(From left to right: Verga, Nash and Fuoco lighting)
Homecrest Outdoor Living (1518)
Infiniti is designed for maximum ease of use in any space, at work or at play. It is generously proportioned and simply designed, making it adaptable to all kinds of environments, space designs and functional requirements. It features Homecrest’s exclusive Sensation fabric, an elastomeric stretch sling that provides a luxurious sit, exceptional shape retention and surface memory, without any of the maintenance that comes with a traditional cushion. Together with the intelligently designed Infiniti tables that can function as end or corner units, Infiniti offers flexibility and the incomparable quality of Homecrest’s American manufacturing.
The Mid-Century era was a great time to be in furniture design. Decades later, this iconic style is experiencing a renaissance, but with all of the benefits of modern technology. The Revive Air collection uses our unique Sensation sling material, which offers incredible stretch, memory and UV resistance, providing the look and feel of a cushion, with none of the maintenance.
The clean lines of the Allure collection, met with the strength and durability of powder-coated aluminum, provide premium comfort. Allure features a field-replaceable double layer sling with no welting, and carries an unprecedented sling warranty. The quick-drying café chairs are available with or without arms.
(From left to right: Infiniti, Revive Air and Allure collections)
Kannoa (1598)
The Santorini, a collection of outdoor furniture imbued with handmade craftsmanship and a mid-century feel. Chair and table bases are made from sustainably-harvested teak wood. The seats are injection molded seats upholstered in Spradling Silvertex vinyl which has an antimicrobial, UV resistant and anti-abrasion patented formula. The chairs are offered in 8 different colors and the tables have the option of having a white or graphite HPL tops. (Shown, Dining Chair and Table)
For Kannoa, Luis Alejandro Blasini has designed an outdoor club chair perfect for garden or poolside soirees. With a handsome profile and an urban tropical look, the Nest chair features sturdy construction of all-weather wicker wrapped around a lightweight aluminum frame. The Nest is offered in a graphite finish topped with plush cushions covered in all-weather acrylic Sunbrella fabrics. Nest or entertain al fresco in subtle style.
(From left to right: Santorini Dining Chair and Table and Nest Chair)
Kellter USA (1544)
The Timber lounge is one of our most versatile sets in our new lounge series. There are many different elements so you can combine the pieces to fit your family and lifestyle. Create a corner set using the open benches, extension and corner pieces, or create a cozy patio set using the 2.5-seater bench in combination with the arm chairs. The ceramic table is height-adjustable, and with one hand can quickly transition from being used as a lounge table to a fully functional dining table for outdoor dining.
The Paros Lounge set is inspired by minimalist European designs, with a small footprint while boasting a large presence in your outdoor living room. The durable, sleek, powder coated aluminum frame, and weatherproof seats allow this set to be left outside for enjoyment year-round. Featuring non-slip cushions, allowing you to freely relax in any position as you unwind at the end of the day. This modern set is a valuable addition to virtually any space, and provides the ideal environment for spending time with friends or family.
If you are searching for a statement piece that will draw everyone to your outdoor living space, then look no further. The Fitz Roy lounge set in teak is a beautiful warm blend of all natural, grade A, Indonesian certified robust teak wood on a strong lava aluminum frame combined with soft luxurious cushions. The finesse of the calm color palette of this lounge set fits in perfectly anywhere, while the modular seating and side tables provides you with space to enjoy your refreshments with friends and family. The Jones’s will now be trying to keep up with you.
(From left to right: Timber, Paros and Fitz Ray lounge sets)
OW Lee (1572)
The sleek modern lines of the Studio collection are inspired by mid-century and contemporary design. This all-aluminum group makes Studio perfect for coastal locations and is a good fit in any contemporary space. Included in this collection is the new proprietary Flex Comfort™ that allows for the comfort of cushioned seating with sling-like ease of maintenance. The Studio collection features a dining arm chair, swivel rocker dining arm chair, lounge chair, swivel rocker lounge chair, ottoman, chaise lounge, and left/right/center/corner chaise sectional pieces.
The simple modern lines of the Lennox collection are inspired by designs of the 50’s and 60’s that made functionality a priority. Most pieces in this group are designed to efficiently stack for easy storage. With a spirit of mid-Century design and updated materials such as galvanized steel tube and expanded metal mesh, Lennox embodies the mantra of form follows function.
The Aris collection was inspired by Mid-Century design and architecture, where clean lines and geometric shapes were key. Aris’ clean look is met by the prevalent Mid-Century design principle of ergonomics. The Aris collection includes dining, deep seating and lounge pieces in twelve frame finishes and over 75 stock Sunbrella fabrics.
(From left to right: Studio, Lennox and Aris collections)
Pavilion Furniture (1519A)
Inspired by the authentic nautical architecture of sailing, motor yachts and cruise lines central to the coastal resort culture of Miami, the Marina collection from PAVILION designed by Richard Frinier sets sail with comfortable FlexStrap seating surfaces interwoven by hand over a classically styled powder-coated aluminum framework. Embellished with clever arm wrap details crafted with colorful yacht cord or a Deckor wood-grain cap rail design instantly transporting the mindset of guests to drift and relax.
The Tides Collection is form and function brought to the outdoors. Inspired by the beauty of the ocean’s movement, the curvilinear lines and shapes of the chair convey the fluidity of the tides. The curved elements of the chair are spaced evenly and repeatedly throughout the piece evoking motion. Narrow extrusions closely aligned and gently bending to support the human form exude ergonomic comfort. The collection is constructed with an inner and outer frame that allows the chair, ottoman and tables to be specified with contrasting colors. Sunlight passes through the slats, creating intriguing shadows as the sun moves across the sky. The Tides Collection evokes nature’s movements and our effort to bend it to our will with unique design.
(From left to right: Marina and Tides collections)
POLYWOOD (15-105)
Designed for comfort and style, the EDGE Modular Deep Seating is scaled for a variety of outdoor living areas — from a spacious patio to an intimate balcony. The all-weather deep seating features plush pillow-back cushions as well as supportive seat cushions covered in high-performance outdoor fabric. The EDGE Collection is also available in outdoor dining.
Inspired by the popular 18th century design style, the Chippendale Collection showcases an exquisite blend of intricate details and fine lines. The Chippendale Collection includes outdoor dining, benches, and gliders.
The modern appearance of the Euro Collection bears the essence of cool sophistication, and the welcoming warmth and comfort you expect from POLYWOOD outdoor furniture. The Euro Collection includes outdoor dining and chaise lounges.
(From left to right: EDGE, Chippendale and Euro collections)
About the Design Center at The Merchandise Mart (theMART)
The Design Center, located in Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart, is home to four floors constituting the world’s largest and finest design center. As a leader in the $65 billion residential home furnishings market, the Design Center offers the largest presentation of high-end, customizable, residential and outdoor home furnishings worldwide, all under one roof. Encompassing 750,000 square feet, boasting more than 125 showrooms and featuring more than 2,500 product lines, it is the ultimate resource for designers and design enthusiasts of luxury furniture, fabrics, floor coverings, wall coverings, lighting and much more. For more information, visit designcenter.com. Visit Design Center on Facebook and Instagram.
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Lizzie Campbell (Grand Rapids, Michigan)