PEOPLE LOVE
Industrial Furnishings
Industrial furnishings are highly desirable and rightly so. Put your feet up, don’t bother with coasters, and don’t worry about scratches and wear & tear.
Industrial furniture always brings a lot of excitement to our New England and New York estate sales and are clients know all about it better than anyone.
For those not as familiar, industrial furnishings first came into mass popularity when Restoration Hardware introduced it years ago, although the firm has changed quite drastically from their early days. When I say ‘rustic’, I really mean it. They offered rustic furnishings that look nothing like their products today.
Stephen Gordon was the original founder of Restoration Hardware. He was living in Eureka California and while restoring a Victorian home he realized that affordable, high-quality hardware and fixtures were unavailable.
Gary Friedman joined Gordon after being passed over for CEO at Williams-Sonoma in 2001 however in 2005, Gordon left the company to run Robert Redford’s Sundance Catalog Company. It is interesting to now that Sears also now holds a stake in Restoration Hardware.
Today about 65% of Restoration Hardware products are made in China.
In September 2010, the company again change their focus. In an attempt for more upscale items and higher price points, the company began focusing on a finer look to distinguish itself from competitors like Pottery Barn. They even added the term “Gallery” to their marques to further enforce the new upgrade.
Then there’s the real thing. True industrial furniture and accessories that are fantastic to own and display in any home. Even a polished modern home can benefit from a pop of industrial. The rocket ship martini set or industrial lighting for example are perfect for a modern environment.
Industrial decor also celebrates the past for those who are not exactly thrilled with today’s offerings, mostly from China. Then there’s the factor of “repurposing” which appeals to so many. Brushed metal storage cabinets, display shelves, task lamps, pendant lights and tables with worn wooden tops and cast-iron bases, all make living very comfortable with kids and pets alike. Like a good pair of jeans, you can always dress it up.
New York lofts were ultimately ahead of the industrial curve with their industrial interiors feature elements like raw brick walls, exposed steel beams and oak floors. All in all, its a great design element and fun to collect so when purging, moving, or changing your interior, make sure not to overlook items that could be of value. Make sure and note some of the values on these items we are highlighting above and below.
