Craft, Elevated
In an ever-more-machined world, this season we are celebrating makers and artisans. Their commitment to the creative process, rare skills and great endeavours are elevating craft to luxury status. Nothing is standard; everything is fastidiously considered.
Just a handful of examples include (pictured from top to bottom): On the Fringe, a new range by Tai Ping, an exploration of hand-tufted craft. In 12 abstract designs, yarns are freed to go beyond the outer edges, allowing them to be used on the floor or be hung as artwork on the walls. Davidson’s ‘Galaxy’ drinks cabinet is notable for its hand carved and hand gilded front panels. Miles x Bookshop distributes Alexander Lamont’s furniture which is renowned for its exquisite use of the ancient craft of straw marquetry where each piece is inlaid carefully by hand. Much inspired by the work of the great Jean-Michel Frank, Lamont also uses a wide variety of rare materials and finishes – mother of pearl, patinated copper, lustrous indigo, lacquer, shagreen and smoked Spanish eucalyptus – all of which give his pieces a distinctive, rich appeal. SA Baxter Foundry & Design Studio has developed collections created in collaboration with architects and interior designers. The ‘Joy’ door handles were named after a 70m superyacht designed by Bannenberg & Rowell. Artisans employ a unique wax-casting process for creating their moulds. The result is handcrafted hardware that harkens back to manufacturing of the past, updated for today.
Tai Ping, Fourth Floor, Design Centre East
Davidson, First Floor, South Dome
Miles x Bookshop, Ground Floor, North Dome (just outside)
SA Baxter Foundry & Design Studio, Third Floor, Centre Dome
