April 2005
THE MILLING ROAD COLLECTION PARES DOWN ITS APPROACH TO CLASSIC FORMS FOR A SIMPLE, LIVABLE ELEGANCE

CHICAGO (April 14, 2005) - With a focus on simple elegance, fluid lines, and everyday practicality, Milling Road introduced 25 new casegood pieces at the Spring 2005 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C. While clearly rooted in traditional styling, these pieces have a refinement and a minimalism that is decidedly modern. A new black-brown finish on the mahogany wood offers a burnished warmth that completes the look of sleek, urban sophistication.

"These are classics with a twist," remarked Jay Paschall, director - product development and merchandising, Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc. "They are a bit more relaxed and designed for the less formal way people live today. They can be dressed up or down, and they look terrific in multiple settings. We have also focused heavily on utility and making sure that these pieces accommodate every customer need."

A fine example of this marriage of style and utility is a handsome Chest-on-Chest in mahogany solids and veneer. The shape is straightforward and commanding, with ten individual drawers that have been fitted with cast knobs and ring pulls in a brushed nickel finish. Its simple, distinct lines and solid masculinity give it a unique presence without ever being overbearing.

Also in keeping with the desire for functional elegance is the new Bookcase/Plasma TV Cabinet. This impressive bow-front bookcase offers myriad shelves for books or artwork and can easily be adjusted to accommodate a plasma TV as well. A two-door storage cabinet sits at the base to house components, and the back panel is reinforced to hold mounting brackets for the

TV. Composed of mahogany solids and veneers, this piece is completed by the brushed nickel hardware and the new glossy Umber finish that has been hand-rubbed to allow a hint of the true wood grain to peek through around the edges.

A new mahogany Cocktail Table is the essence of smart, simple styling, with its rectangular top resting on two slab ends that have been cleverly incised with a harlequin low relief pattern. It is well-proportioned, unusual and well-suited for any number of applications and environments.

"These furnishings are designed to fulfill an aesthetic that is minimalist without sacrificing beauty and practicality," said Joe McCambridge, designer for The Milling Road Collection. "These pieces are unembellished but stand out as dramatic forms. We have also gone to great lengths to ensure that they have been designed to maximize utility, with thoughtful storage and functional elements."

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

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America's oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, home interiors, and hospitality services.