October 2002
Milling Road Introduces Fabrics With Warm Autumn Color Palette in an Array of Textures

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Milling Road introduced fabrics in a palette of warm seasonal colors at the Fall 2002 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, NC. These fabrics offer patterns and textures that embrace the traditional but with just enough verve to offer any upholstered piece a modern shot in the arm. Pale shell, subtle cedar, sumac and burnished bronze offer a color bath for patterns that provide a new twist on old favorites. The fabrics in the collection range from tactile chenille and bouclé to simple cotton and sumptuous silk, all with a great feel and a sturdy construction.

"Many of these fabrics are modern and graphic, but at the same time, traditional," said Dennis Anderson, independent showroom and store merchandiser, and color consultant for Milling Road. "They often look like vintage fabrics, the kind you'd see at a flea market. At the same time, they are very special and sophisticated with their heavy weight and good construction."

For example, a classic tobacco leaf pattern is handled in a modern way with fresh colors and a worn, raised high relief pattern. A large scale peony print is familiar and classic, but is chic enough with its broad weave and celery undertones to be young and fresh. A French ribbon pattern with small star is both whimsical and bold in gold and black.

Also new to the assortment are three leathers: an earthy red wine and a chocolately brown, as well as a darker brown with a glossy finish that promises to gain a remarkable patina with age and wear. Rounding out the array of fabrics are traditional glen plaids, classic stripes, a warm gold pattern with a crest motif and numerous others. The creamy shell hues and basketweave patterns were used to provide a light counterbalance to the dark mahogany of the island-inspired pieces introduced by Milling Road at this Market.

In addition, in keeping with the introduction of new, lower price points from Milling Road, there are fresh fabrics that offer the quality and beauty that has come to be expected from Milling Road but at more economical prices. "Colors and styles are very well constructed, have longevity, and are nice to the touch, but less expensive," said Anderson.

Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc. includes Baker Furniture, Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms and Baker Stores. Along with McGuire Furniture Company and Ann Sacks, it is part of the Kohler Interiors Group and a wholly owned subsidiary of Kohler Co., a global leader in kitchen and bath designs.

Kohler Co. was founded in 1873. Headquartered in Kohler, Wis., it is one of the oldest and largest privately held companies in the United States.