modern twist
I’m sure you’ve seen a resurgence of woven materials in your latest feed and editorials. Taking some time to bring to you some inspiration and background on this trend, along with some helpful hints on specification. Mater Design has a beautifully crafted collection Nestor which features hand-woven paper cord most often found on Scandinavian designs. This piece, designed by Tom Stepp of Stepp Design, is available in two FSC certified Beech frame finishes and suitable for both commercial and residential applications.
The use of this paper cordage, adds texture and an aesthetic that stands the test of time. Both durable and sustainable, this hand woven detail is a welcome reprieve in a land of plastic and metal chairs. This piece is available armed, or armless to suite a variety of applications and scales. Mater Design has a domestic stocked program, so many pieces are available to ship immediately from Central US.
For a few more options, Billiani, an Italian brand founded in 1911, started out producing chairs in curved wood and caning. Now this third generation family run company is now well known for international hospitality and corporate projects in need of beautifully crafted seating and tables. In 2019, Billiani entrusted renowed architect and designer Cristina Celestino with the artistic direction of the company. Want a pop of color? Most frames are available in either naturally stained Ash or Beechwood but a curated selection of standard wood stains or lacquer, allows for some unique combinations. Customization is Billiani’s strength, so happy to work with custom colors or stains…just submit an RAL or stain to match.
Fratina is inspired by those classic chairs with rush seats. In Emilio Nanni’s reinterpretation, the designer exaggerates its lines, the legs have a round section and the backrest, attached to the rear legs, is generous to the point of becoming a semicircle in the armchair version. The seat is available in fabric, leather, straps or woven cellulose cord, which simulates the ancient processing of rush wickerwork. Awarded the Red Dot Design Award in 2016, Fratina is quintessentially Billiani – a chair in perfect balance between tradition and experimentation.
I like things to be modern and still have a bit of tradition.
-Alexander McQueen
