October 2004
BAKER INTRODUCES ELEGANCE AND LIVEABILITY IN ITS LATEST DESIGNS FOR THE MILLING ROAD COLLECTION

CHICAGO (October 14, 2004) - Intent on addressing the way consumers live now, Baker introduced 25 new casegood pieces to The Milling Road Collection at the Fall 2004 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, NC. These furnishings are inspired by traditional pieces but have been pared down and relaxed to fit a more informal lifestyle. They maintain Baker's meticulous craftsmanship and ageless style but in Milling Road style, are designed to coexist with other pieces to create comfortable yet classic settings.

"The Milling Road Collection designs are focused on those consumers seeking out pieces that they can truly live in and enjoy, yet still maintain a classic appeal," remarked Jay Paschall, director new product development and merchandising, Baker Knapp & Tubbs. "Drawing inspiration from European form, the designs are a bit more casual, not too precious or formal, with a freedom and character."

A perfect example of the objective behind these new pieces is the Cocktail Tray Table. With its straightforward lines, elegant utility, and ability to go just about anywhere in the home, this piece is both flexible and distinctive. It has a simple neoclassic style and has been crafted in teak solids and veneers. The removable tray table has been handcrafted in unpeeled rattan poles that surround a palm wood veneered panel, giving the piece an air of exoticism.

Also striking is the lovely Chairside Drink Table. Inspired by the Chinese Qing dynasty original, this unusual table has a round top echoed by a round stretcher and connected by three shaped legs. Completing the look of elegance is the Manor House Black finish with gold stripes. Perfect in innumerable settings, this piece is sure to be a conversation-starter.

For a piece that will become the focal point of any room, there is a new Buffet/Deck designed in the spirit of mid-18th century France. This commanding piece has an overhanging molded cornice that sits atop double molded doors that conceal adjustable shelving. The center section offers numerous stationary shelves perfect for displaying china or books, and the bottom section consists of a single drawer atop molded cabinets with a hand-carved base and cabriole legs.

Also mixing form with function is the new Work Table. Combining simple lines with superb materials and craftsmanship, this handsome piece works equally well in the dining room or the office. A planked rectangular top is finished in a warm caramel color and rests on a modern X trestle base that has been finished in Manor House black. There is also the new Round Bistro Table, done in the style of 17th century Spain with a hand-hammered forged steel base elevating a round hardwood top of caramel-colored random planks. The steel base has been naturally blacked through the forging process, creating a look that is both dramatic and chic.

For one-of-a-kind seating, there's nothing that compares to the new provincial French Barrel Chair. Relying on typical Louis XIV styling, this wonderful chair has a semi-circular top rail that rests above turned posts that elevate elegantly shaped rails. The comfortable seat consists of a plush cushion over woven sea grass. For use in the dining room, there are the Country French Dining Chairs, which manage to mix Old World refinement with country casual, all while maintaining their comfort through several courses. Also designed in the spirit of late 17th century French style, these chairs have a curved crest rail over a pierced back splat that is situated between shaped corner posts. As with the Barrel Chair, the seat consists of a cushion over woven sea grass.

"These furnishings are distinctive and look like they have a bit of history to them," said Joe McCambridge, designer for The Milling Road Collection. "Their heritage is both in European and Asian designs, but the finished versions are less ornate than the originals. They are comfortable and easy to live with, without sacrificing their uniqueness. We think these pieces are perfectly suited to today's less fussy homes and more casual lifestyles."

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.