When research revealed to Lexington Home Brands that over half of affluent consumers describe themselves as traditionalists, the furniture company saw an opportunity in the marketplace to create an entirely new take on classic traditional design.
“Our brand launch with Barclay Butera represents a milestone, because its the first time we have partnered with an interior designer to collaboratively reimagine a style category,” said Phil Haney, president and chief executive officer of Lexington.
Lexington and Butera unveiled the result of their collaboration at the recent Fall #HPMKT in what they describe as the “largest product launch from a single interior designer in High Point history.” Comprised of 225 pieces, there are two distinctly different whole-home collections, Newport and Brentwood, with each taking a curated approach to Butera’s innovative interpretation of “New Traditional” design.
The “light, breezy and crisp” Newport finds its inspiration in the relaxed yet sophisticated lifestyle of the coast, and offers two primary wood finishes: Sandstone, a light-hued finish over Elm veneers, and Sailcloth, a custom whitewash. The collection also has very personal roots, as it reflects “how I live in my home in Newport,” Butera said.
The Sandstone finish is shown on the Lido Isle Hall Chest and La Jolla Woven Mirror above. The opening photos, also in the Newport Collection, are of the Blair Sofa, Harbor Raffia End & Cocktail Tables and the Sydney Chair. Barclay Butera is sitting on the Sheffield Leather Cocktail Ottoman in the opening photo.
Signature items are offered in 3 shades of raffia — natural, marine blue and sea glass green, offering possibilities for layering of texture and color.
Sea glass is a favorite accent color of Barclay’s used throughout the collections, along with his signature blue and white palette that is especially prominent in Newport. Sea glass is used on an upholstered bed and on this pair of crewel-patterned wing chairs.
Drawing its name and styling from the exclusive enclave near Beverly Hills, the Brentwood Collection offers a chic interpretation of traditional with a touch of glam and the sophistication of Hollywood Regency.
In contrast to the casual Newport, Brentwood takes a more refined and curated aproach that retains the sophistication of Hollywood Regency, but the infusion of transitional and contemporary elements updates the look with a more modern vibe.
The signature element of Brentwood is the warm graphite-hued Wilshire finish, hand-waxed to enhance the depth and clarity of the wood. Custom metal bases feature black nickel stainless steel. Textiles offer palettes of black, gray and white with accents of celadon and blue. Patterns include menswear stripes, herringbone, geometrics, toile, embroidery and animal prints.
Animal prints are also sprinkled into Newport, along with bold geometrics, balanced stripes, bamboo lattice designs and an unexpected touch of chinoiserie.
In an on-stage conversation with Kelly Edwards of Editor At Large in the Lexington Showroom, Butera gave his definition of “New” Traditional style: “It is classic shapes with modern twists added to make it current. For example, an unexpected black nickel base on a dining sideboard.” Butera said he intentionally scaled the upholstery with a generous “California scale, with lower and deeper seating for lounging, along with upright and substantial chairs.”
“While it may sound unexpected, I’ve found that one of the roles I often find myself in with clients is that of a therapist for the home. It’s my responsibility to understand their aspirations for living and entertaining and to them create an environment that enables them to live that lifestyle,” Butera said. “I cherish the role because I can literally impact someone’s life. How amazing is that?”
Kim Darden Shaver
for
Leslie Hendrix Wood
Founder,
Editor In Chief
Hadley Court
Interior Designer
Leslie Hendrix Wood Interiors
Midland, Texas
Gracious Living. Timeless Design. Family Traditions.
Photos Courtesy of Lexington Home Brands. Photos 6, 9, 10 & 11 by Author.
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