Design lovers have a new reason to shop. Here are three openings we have our eye on this autumn.
Ethnicraft
Plans for a new showroom by Belgian-based furniture brand Ethnicraft are on the horizon at the New York Design Center. Founded by Philippe Delaisse and Benoit Loos, Ethnicraft began as an import business. Now, 30 years later, with numerous product and accessory lines, plus showrooms in Chicago and High Point, an expansion to New York was a natural next step for the brand. “We are convinced that there are two places in the world—New York and Paris—where everyone goes professionally and personally,” says Stefan Dusart, head of marketing and sales for Ethnicraft. “It’s a great opportunity for us to invest in the brand experience in our showrooms.”
Eleish Van Breems Antiques Barn
The Antiques Barn in Roxbury is Eleish Van Breems‘ (EVB) latest offerings of folk art, Scandinavian antiques and midcentury furniture. Built in the 1790s as a working barn, the structure was renovated into an antiques shop by its previous owners, making it the perfect spot for EVB founders Rhonda Eleish and Edie van Breems to continue the tradition. “We’re collectors at heart,” van Breems says. “This space lets us display so much of what we had in storage. It’s a celebration of all the regional Nordic furniture styles.” Friends since childhood, the women have built an empire around their love of Swedish pieces and beautiful spaces. The antiques barn joins an interior design studio and stores in Westport, New Preston and Nantucket that tout vintage and new pieces and accessories. “We’ve been in business for 30 years, but we’re always discovering something new,” van Breems says. “Rhonda and I aren’t normal businesspeople—we’re artists and curators.”
The Lacquer Company
London-based brand The Lacquer Company recently expanded with a showroom at the New York Design Center, featuring its colorful collection of handcrafted furniture and accessories. “I founded The Lacquer Company in 2008 while living in New York, so opening a showroom here feels like coming home,” says company founder James Lowther. “We’re seeing many familiar faces at the showroom, but we’re also reaching many new designers and retail clients.” While lacquer is an ancient craft, the company continues to innovate with new finishes and collaborations. Lowther says to stay tuned this year for new pieces with London designer Rita Konig and a collaboration with Los Angeles duo Nickey Kehoe.
