Design's new wave: from parisian elegance to murano magic
A curated collection of design highlights – from Barrie Benson’s meticulously crafted furniture to whimsical ceramic plates – signals a shift towards layered textures, handcrafted details, and a bold embrace of color and pattern.
Barrie benson redefines highland house with parisian roots
Highland House and designer Barrie Benson have established a symbiotic relationship, culminating in a Spring 2024 collection that marries Parisian sophistication with enduring comfort. The ‘Renzo’ sectional, inspired by Madeleine Castaing’s legendary apartment, isn’t simply about relaxation; it’s about a considered, luxurious ease. Edwards highlights pieces like the McHale dresser, boasting a remarkable ‘new old’ veneer, and the Silvie cocktail table, channeling vintage French glamour through its brass frame. “It’s a genuine privilege to expand our collaboration,” states Nathan Copeland, President of Highland House. “Barrie’s design sensibility perfectly complements our dedication to impeccable craftsmanship.”
Artisan ceramics and venetian glass: a collision of tradition
Elsewhere, Guillaume Sardin’s ceramic work, born from a historic atelier in France, presents a captivating study in spontaneity and texture. His plates, adorned with mythological figures and evocative landscapes, blur the lines between art and functionality. Simultaneously, In Common With’s partnership with Venetian glassmakers Laguna B has yielded the ‘Lido’ collection – a strikingly contemporary range of lighting that marries centuries-old techniques with a bold, modern aesthetic. Nick Ozemba and Felicia Hung emphasize their studio’s commitment to celebrating irregularity, “embracing the hand, the process, and the material itself,” resulting in a collection that feels both storied and refreshingly current.
A spectrum of styles: key highlights
clé’s new tile collection, in collaboration with Cristina Celestino, explodes with Mediterranean color and pattern, offering a retro fantasia for walls and floors. Cuff Studio, meanwhile, leans into a more ornamental mood with Scalamandré’s textiles, creating layers of texture and theatricality. From Kiln to Table, Sardin’s plates are a testament to the alchemy of craft, while In Common With’s lighting, featuring goti de fornasa and murrine techniques, underscores a dedication to honoring tradition – and injecting a dose of unexpected beauty into the everyday. The investment in these pieces, starting at $1,700, speaks to a demand for objects that not only look exquisite but also feel like they’ve been made with intention.
Final thoughts
These collections aren't simply trends; they're a quiet rebellion against the sterile, the predictable. They’re a reminder that true design lies in the embrace of imperfection, the honoring of history, and the unwavering pursuit of beauty – a sentiment echoed by Cuff Studio’s assertion: “We look back to move forward.”