10 THINGS // Highpoint Spring 2016 Market
We tried Highpoint once several years ago. It didn't go very well. The North Carolina based furniture show is more geared towards larger corporate firms, who are looking to fill a containers worth of furniture imported from China. Not the best match for a custom, made to order brand who makes everything in Brooklyn! Also, it is a bit of a culture clash, and this year they had to deal with a PR headache: North Carolina politics. The state's government passed an anti-LGBT law … not a good look, especially for the inclusive interior design industry.
That said, we did discover some interesting, like-minded companies, like Gus and Sisco Furniture when we visited. This week's 10 THINGS highlights some notable products we thought were interesting from Highpoint Spring Market 2016, which just wrapped up.
The Delano Chair V2 is a simple, modern update to our original design. Balancing industrial aesthetics with elegant proportions, this refined accent chair will add an air of sophistication to any living space. Available in black, white or brown leather, this chair features blind-tufted, top-stitched seat and back cushions and a polished, tubular stainless steel frame. Interior cushion panels constructed with kiln-dried 100% FSC®-Certified hardwood. –from the Gus website
2) Sacha Chaise by Shine by SHO
This unique chaise lounge is custom made to order in California and is covered in a camel-colored mohair. For 2016, Shine by SHO is exploring the glitzy, groovy design of the 1970s – think Studio 54 and disco. We've noticed this is a current trend all over the place, so good on them.
3) Coeur Cabinet by Shine by SHO
I love this simple cabinet that adds some interesting details – in particular the large gemstone-inspired pulls. That's the hook, combined with the oh-so on trend greywash finish.
4) Pierre Coffee Table by Shine by SHO
A neat little coffee table that continues the theme of gemstones and 1970s design. The beveled glass combined with a satin-finished brass frame and marble base shelf really makes a strong statement, especially when considering the duel cantilever design.
5) Phillips Collection Iron Frame Console Table
It's a sad state of affairs when we're forced to say the Phillips Collection is one of the more interesting things at Highpoint. While we don't approve of imported woods and prefer local manufacturers, it is worth noting that at least Phillips is continuing to evolve the use of live edge, which is in danger of becoming stale.
It's hard to find 10 things that are actually good at Highpoint … this rams horn lamp designed and built in South Africa is interesting, and has been certified sustainable. So that's something.
7) The Markham Loveseat by Mr. Brown London
This is a lovely, light and airy little mid-century inspired sofa with a fresh bold pattern. It'd work well in a small Brooklyn Apartment.
8) Bennie Dining Table by Gabby Home
I hate both the names Bennie and Gabby, but I have been on a pedestal table kick lately. This example gets bonus points for the unique bronzed base and cerused black wooden top.
9) Angora Side Table by Barry Dixon
I've been reading that plaster is going to be a trend this year, so I figured I would include this. It isn't breaking any ground, but I think it's cheeky. Or leggy. Whatever …
10) Edros Dry Bar by Emotional Brands
I like everything about this: it's a really weird yet luxurious design and has a hidden, well appointed bar within. Even the name: Emotional Brands, huh? I love that it unintentionally reminds me of tongue-in-cheek hipsteriffic artsy studios like Confetti Systems and Various Projects.
For more, check out these articles by Dering Hall.
