BAKER NEWS

October 2008
BAKER BRINGS NEW FORMS TO ITS MILLING ROAD COLLECTION BRIDGING FAMILIAR FAVORITES WITH MORE STYLIZED DESIGNS

CHICAGO (October 20, 2008) – Drawing inspiration from European, Provincial and Neoclassic designs Baker unveiled new forms to The Milling Road Collection at the Fall 2008 International Home Furnishings Market. The remarkable range of 30 new pieces include three dining tables, three dining arm and side chairs, poster, upholstered and paneled bed styles, a sideboard, occasional and side tables, chests, two mirrors, and an étagère.

The Milling Road Collection spans over 50 years and has built its reputation on bringing to the marketplace classic, familiar forms that are functional and versatile, yet are fresh in approach by weaving in unexpected design elements. These latest forms are more elegant and delicately scaled than past designs, yet continues to resonate with provincial appeal and rustic character. Each piece is individually handcrafted by Baker, with intricate details such as barley twist legs, turned and reeded posts, fine veneer, woven cane chair backs and shelves and such touches as drawers lined in French book paper, sea grass baskets, plate grooves and convex glass. Brass hardware finished in Antique Brass complement two new finishes developed specifically for these new pieces. Two new transparent wood finishes were designed to bring out the fiery veneers. Tanin, a rich golden brown, and Brun, a dark medium brown hue layered under black, hand-rubbed through to expose the warm wood tones.

A new Entertainment Cabinet is one example of the thoughtful, versatile forms that are the foundation of Milling Road designs. The cabinet stands an impressive 36 inches for superb viewing height. Inspired by demi-lune styling, the curved top is finished in figured veneers and buffed to a satiny gloss.

The open lower cabinet features two adjustable shelves finished in figured veneer. Flanking doors appointed with cast brass hardware finished in Dark Copper provide discreet storage. The interior houses sea grass baskets to capture remote controls and other electronic incidentals and an adjustable lower shelf.

Showcasing the level of craftsmanship that Baker brings to even its lower priced collections is Pedestal Table. Scaled to work in even the most intimate spaces, the table has an octagonal top surrounded by a slightly raised gallery in a rich display of veneer. The intricate turned barley twist pedestal and plinth base support and create visual excitement.

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, Kallista plumbing, and Mark David hospitality furniture, 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.