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| Edited By: Mithila Mehta |Source: DNA |Updated: Sep 16, 2016, 07:46 PM IST
A richly upholstered sofa adds infinite grace to your room, beautiful curtains give your room character, while an armchair in bright prints makes an interesting statement. Cushion covers, carpets, tablecloths and more are the finishing touches you can’t do without. But that’s not all; for that touch of perfection, you need to ensure your fabrics come from the right makers.
Antico Sertifico Fiorentin
Silk fabrics are a striking addition to any home and Italian brand Antico Setificio Fiorentino has a glorious history in the fine craft of silk fabrics. Located in the heart of Florence, this ancient silk mill was established by noble Florentine families in 1786. Skilled craftsmen weave traditional Florentine fabrics, brocades and damasks on antique handlooms, some of which have been in use since the initial days of the company. The designs of the fabrics are carefully preserved in their archives and can be reproduced upon clients’ requests.
When you think of silk, you think at once of Thai silk and the brand synonymous with it is Jim Thompson. Named after its founder, an American who lived in Thailand, the brand was established as a name to be remembered in the world of luxury fabrics, when Thompson stepped in to save Thai silk from extinction. He saw that the traditional Thai craftsmanship of hand-woven silk was almost dying as it couldn’t face the competition from large factories producing machine-made fabrics. Today, their delicate silks make for elegant curtains, cushion covers and table runners.
For leather upholstery, the best known name is Edelman Leather. In 1964, the Edelman family, with the help of artist Andy Warhol, became a leading leather source for the fashion industry. The company evolved into one with a bold artistic vision, while upholding the time-honoured traditions of the craft. Even today, Edelman works with third and fourth generation tanneries. A special feature of the brand is that they allow complete customisation of design, spanning over 800 colourways and more than 80 different types of leathers.
Rubelli
In a mood largely representative of design trends across various spheres, glorious tradition meets modern technology. Italian brand Rubelli is a great example of this, where the old and new live peaceably side by side. Founded in 1858 in Venice, the company has adopted a unique approach to textiles—some of its fabrics are traditionally handmade, while others use the latest computerised technology. Rubelli is best known for their rich textiles for upholstery and wallpaper as well as sheer fabrics for delicate curtains.
A brand that has stayed true to its character over its four-plus decades of existence, Etro is a fine ode to high quality fabrics. The Italian brand is devoted to producing only ‘eco’ fabrics from natural fibres—silk, cotton, cashmere and linen. The designs are inspired by the founder, Gimmo Etro’s love for the exotic, which he explored through his travels. Interestingly enough, the brand’s designs are known for their hallmark Paisley motif, which has an oriental origin. Etro continues to find inspiration in Asia (their Creative Director has travelled the Silk Route four times), from the woven carpets of Tibet to the rich art of tapestry embroidery from Myanmar—a must-have for stunning upholstery, bedding and throws.
Etro
For some delightfully Parisian-style fabrics, opt for luxury brand Pierre Frey. Established in 1935, the brand rides on a heritage of fine craftsmanship in the purest French tradition. Their new collection has a lovely range of woven fabrics for indoor-outdoor use.
Another venerated textile brand is Christian Fischbacher, founded in 1819 in St Gallen, Switzerland. A family-owned business, their passion is evident in the great attention to detail and emphasis on quality materials. Christian Fischbacher’s interior fabrics are perfect for soft furnishings like curtains and upholstery. In addition, they also offer high-end carpets and bedding options.
Some of the best known fashion houses have a home decor range on offer. Ralph Lauren fabrics are most famous for being visually rich—on offer are paisley fabrics, rich brocades, thick plaid weaves and simple block colours, occasionally packing in a splash of colour. Missoni’s fabrics, true to the image of their fashion house, are edgy, vibrant and elaborate. They work wonderfully on a piece of statement furniture, while Armani Casa’s range is luxuriously elegant, emphasising monochromatic hues with a metallic hint.
