October 2003
Baker Reveals a Palette Refreshed by Vibrant Color for the Milling Road Collection

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (October 16, 2003) - A palette that blends the deep, rich hues from nature were the inspiration behind the new fabrics introduced by Baker for its Milling Road collection at the Fall 2003 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, NC. Fabrics in nearly 50 new patterns and colors were introduced, as well as four sumptuous new leathers.

"We wanted to capture a vintage feel without it looking old-fashioned," said Dennis Anderson, independent showroom and store merchandiser, and color consultant for the Milling Road collection. "These patterns have classic appeal, but they are very rich to the touch and the pretty colors make them pop. Throughout the worlds of fashion and design, color is back in a big way."

A collection of lush jewel tones show up everywhere from a classic houndstooth pattern with hints of emerald and cranberry to a bold stripe with shades of deep pink and soft taupe. Plumwood shades capture the essence of autumn in the deep browns and reds of a timeless plaid, as well as in the blue-gray of a soft, wide basketweave. Terra cotta hues provide a sophisticated twist to the popular preppy pinks and greens with muted dusty rose shades and hints of celadon amid cream, maroon and chocolate brown.

"We have fabrics that will make a statement in a room, as well as many which are unique but which incorporate classic colors and textures that will work well with other pieces," said Anderson. "They are traditional, but with brighter, fresher colors."

Included in the mix this fall is a thick tapestry floral print straight out of an English country home that has a significant hand and heft to it. A rich, nubby chenille is a pairing of fawn with either deep red or black to create what from a distance looks like a classic leopard print. A fun wide stripe pairs brilliant greens and reds with toned-down creams and pinks to be both dressy and relaxed.

For making a statement, there's a large windowpane plaid that has strong accents and colors, combining clean, geometric lines with sumptuous shades. Taking a cue from menswear, there is a diminutive houndstooth that weaves in subtle touches of color and is incredibly soft and luxurious. In addition, there is a velvety faux mohair that has a refined, rich look in the hues of dusty moss, dark café au lait, or warm terra cotta.

Among the new offerings for fall are also a number of timeless leathers. One of the standouts is a distressed brown leather with a slight sheen, a very soft feel, and an excellent pull-up quality giving it a true sense of character. In addition, there is a soft, pliable leather offered in both a rich loden shade and a lighter café au lait brown. Lastly, Milling Road introduced a Merlot-hued, pull-up leather imparting a dense, glove leather quality and pliant hand.

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.