The New Neutral Minimalism
With softer angles and tactile, organic textures, the new Minimalism is spare but never severe. It begs you to come closer, to run your hands over it, to pick it up and cuddle it … rather than just standing there in your Jil Sander, looking severe and unapproachable.
Serax
The Flora Vulgaris collection by Roos van de Velde is a study in perfect imperfection. This nature-inspired flatware allows flaws and coincidences that naturally occur during production to have a place in the final product. For more about the tender beauty on display check out our article on the recent Maison&Objet show in Paris.
Refin Ceramiche
Calm yet compelling, the malleability of wax becomes the surface of these ceramic tiles. Cera pattern tiles gain in complexity as you near them, revealing a seemingly translucent surface with the look of cracks, cavities, and surface irregularities. Learn more about the innovation we found at the Cersaie show in Bologna from our article.
Loom Imports
Loom Imports, a fair-trade, sustainable, Certified B Corp US company, offers stunning 100-percent wool rugs, handmade in Mexico, like Rug No. 5, shown here. Natural dye baths, created for each weaving, mean colors shift slightly with different batches, making the pieces even more unique.
Benjamin Moore
For spring, Benjamin Moore’s director of color marketing and development, Andrea Magno, sees neutral tones with Japanese/Scandinavian notes as tranquil and welcoming, drawing connections between exterior landscapes and interior comforts. For more from Andrea, check out her article on Spring 2024 paint trends.
Giobagnara
From designer Francesco Balzano’s series of benches, tables, and seats inspired by the bones used in the ancient Greek and Roman game known as knucklebones. The Ossicle coffee table is primal and monolithic—yet sinuously intertwined—in two-tone leather. For more about the tender beauty on display check out our article on the recent Maison&Objet show in Paris.
Neutrally Sophisticated
The beiges and tans of natural materials continue to reassure us that we can keep our private lives simple, no matter how complex the world outside our door might seem.
Antiquarian Shop
The shape of this wicker and rattan Louis VXI Trellis counter stool from Mainly Baskets recalls the historic luxury of the Bourbon kings. Its materials and craftsmanship ground it in today’s interest in simplicity and nature. Available in Sewickley and Aspinwall.
Today’s Home
A well-conceived coffee table can store books and remotes as well as display treasured objects, support a massive charcuterie board, and host a rousing family boardgame party. Versatility is a virtue! This Burrow tiered coffee table is available in Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Glass Center
The Jigsaw collection is a new addition to the Penn/Fairmount line designed by glass artist John Sharvin. Functional as well as beautiful, with its glint of gold and its good grip, the group highlights his passion for both art and engineering. (Photo by Adam Milliron)
Allegheny Millwork & Lumber
In this utility room, Armac Martin Hardware, made in England since 1929, brings a rich tradition of craftsmanship and design to solid brass cabinet pulls, latches, and a clever pot rail. Available in Pittsburgh.
Story by Stephen Treffinger and Keith Recker
