BAKER NEWS

April 2008
BAKER STUDIO UNVEILS NEW SELECTION OF ECLECTIC FORMS
Baker Expands its Casual Contemporary Category with Forms Based on International Design

CHICAGO (April 7, 2008) – At the Spring 2008 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C., Baker unveiled an exceptional mix of new forms to complement Baker Studio, its dynamic in-house collection. Reflecting a bold, youthful aesthetic that speaks to emerging urban markets, the latest designs for Baker Studio are a clearly articulated vision of casual contemporary furniture. Baker Studio offers a compelling price point and exceptional craftsmanship, a fashionable representation that is something more designer-led with a creativity rarely seen in the casual category.

The forms bridge beautifully to the existing collection with a playful personality, modest in scale and exuding a modern sensibility. Strong anchor pieces, such as a glossy black lacquer bar cabinet, and upholstered panel bed, are complemented by unique accent and occasional pieces. The approach to the collection is as free-spirited as the pieces that make up this eclectic assortment.

This Market, Baker Studio drew from a diverse pool of inspiration including elements found in Chinese, Danish, English, Egyptian, and North African design. There is a gathered air about the pieces, at once visually exciting yet not too precious in detail with a relevance that speaks to the moment. The techniques and materials reflect Baker craftsmanship and an attention to detail not commonly associated with mainstream casual contemporary lines. Crafted from oak or maple solids and veneers, the pieces are finished in Black and White hand-rubbed lacquers, and a splendid Ceruse Oak finish, all executed in Old World technique. Complex wood joinery pays homage to late 19th and 20th century design, with decorative glass and steel fretwork creating subtle relief Hardware is forged from steel, the custom Chinese designs finished by hand in a lustrous Satin Nickel finish.

An example of the diverse nature of these pieces is a sleek Bar Cabinet influenced by Chinese design. The hardwood cabinet is finished in a choice of Ivory or Black lacquer and fitted with hand-rubbed, steel hardware, its medallion design referencing the Baitong escutcheons of China. Lacquered finished sides and a mirrored back decorate the interior that houses one adjustable glass shelf. Finishing the piece are legs in a stylish interpretation of a foot detail that hearkens back to the Kangxi and Ming Dynasties.

Presenting a fun, functional addition to any home is the Sushi Table from this Market. Low to the ground and intimately scaled for casual dining, the Sushi Table is crafted from oak solids and veneers. The table top has a centered, rotating serving plate and is surrounded by an inset apron adding an elegant Danish touch to the form. The table is supported by four legs joined by a solid lower shelf that can be easily employed to free up table top space in a moment’s notice. The table is offered in Light Oak with a Black lacquer shelf or in a Dark Limed Oak.

Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc. includes Baker furniture, Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms, and Baker Stores. Along with McGuire Furniture Company, Ann Sacks tile, stone and plumbing company and Kallista plumbing, 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, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.