HISTORY LESSONS
The House of Scalamandré was given unrestricted access to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s vast archives—including hidden treasures not on display—to create the Scalamandré x The Met collection. The result is a celebration of artistic and cultural traditions. Examples include a mural wallpaper based on an 18th century Indian wall-hanging, a fabric inspired by a Chinese scroll cover and an embroidered tape translated from a Marie-Antoinette chair found at Versailles. The collection debuted in October with more than 90 items, all taking cues from the rare antiquities, artifacts and ancient heirlooms found within the two-million-square-foot museum.
LUXURY LIVING
California-based Erik Lindström Rugs has expanded its presence on the East Coast with an NYC showroom. Located in the Flatiron district, the 4,000-square-foot space was created with interior designer Anna Beeber to replicate a glamorous apartment with partitioned salons, chic black walls and bespoke furnishings. “The idea behind our gallery was to be the opposite of a typical rug showroom,” says designer and founder Erik Lindström. “No design center. No bright lights. No giant stack of rugs. Designers can enjoy a unique experience and feel inspired by the surroundings we’ve thoughtfully curated. Here, you’re transported into a world filled with splendor, where our rugs are complemented with art, curiosities and rare furnishings from around the world.” Rugs in contemporary, transitional and textural patterns are handmade by weavers from natural materials including Tibetan and New Zealand wool, fine silk, cashmere alpaca and mohair. Erik Lindstrom is represented in CT by Crans Baldwin. NYC showroom is open by appointment.
AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP
Colonial Williamsburg’s Craft and Forge has partnered with Charleston Forge to create Armory and Frontier collections of cocktail and end tables. Inspired by the time-honored techniques and craftsmanship of Colonial America metalsmiths, the furniture—in steel with wood or glass tops—is designed for today’s lifestyle. Made in the Charleston Forge headquarters in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone, North Carolina, skilled welders, forgers, woodsmiths and painters craft each piece to order. Sales support the preservation, research and educational programs of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and the artisan trades. The furniture can be purchased through Charleston Forge and interior designers.
NATURAL BEAUTY
Interlude Home has been busy this year opening a new 3,000-square-foot showroom in Stamford’s Waterside Design District and introducing its biggest launch to date, the Naturals Collection. In rattan, sisal, grasscloth and wood, the latest assemblage melds contemporary style with a casual resort vibe. The extensive line-up features dining chairs, stools, cocktail and occasional tables, dressers, bedside chests, dining tables and more. The company has also aligned with Alonpi, a niche Italian brand, to offer luxe cashmere. The seven-piece, limited-edition collection of throws is woven in textural neutrals, staying true to Interlude Home’s signature aesthetic.
