PRESS RELEASES

October 2009
BAKER INTRODUCES NEW FORMS TO THE MILLING ROAD COLLECTION

CHICAGO (October 17, 2009) – Baker, a premier manufacturer and designer of fine furniture, unveiled new designs to its successful Milling Road Collection at the Fall 2009 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C. Inspired by European Provincial design, the collection features five new forms including a square dining table, upholstered bench, an occasional table, a tier table and a diminutive demilune.

The Milling Road Collection has built its reputation on bringing to the marketplace relaxed alternatives to classic traditional forms. Competitively priced, the collection continues to broaden its repertoire while remaining true to its European Continental roots with functional and versatile designs, range of finishes, and the fine craftsmanship that is expected from Baker.

The pieces are crafted from mindi hardwood solids and veneers, an abundant, sustainable resource that when expertly cut reveals a fiery veneer reminiscent of finely figured walnut. The pieces are offered in Milling Road’s exclusive Barley, a layered honey toned finish, which is hand-rubbed to a soft luster; Tannen, a rich golden brown, and Brun, a dark medium brown hue layered under black, hand-rubbed through to expose the warm wood tones and evoke a glossy sheen.

Cast brass bale pull hardware designs are finished in Dark Iron, its deep patina and soft luster a rich complement to the wood. Other decorative touches include drawers lined in French book paper, oil-rubbed bronze nail head trim, and intricate veneer lay-up.

The decorative Cloverleaf Table is a whimsical form featuring some of the more intricate craftsmanship Baker brings to its product. Its cloverleaf shaped top has a six piece mindi veneer inlay and has a raised gallery outlining its curvaceous form. Three turned and reeded legs are met by a unique stretcher centered with a small cloverleaf mirroring the tabletop design in exact detail.

A slightly scaled mindi wood Demilune is laid with highly figured mindi veneers and supported by a recessed scalloped apron. Three gently sweeping cabriole legs are joined by a lower shelf. The table is offered in either the golden brown tones of Tannen or the light, honey-colored Barley finishes.

To expand upon its dining room category, Baker introduced a new table, bench and server. The 64-inch square dining table of mindi solids is inspired by French Provincial design and finished in the deep tones of Brun. The faux plank top is laid up in a random pattern of finely figured mindi veneers and slightly distressed evoking an acquired air. The top rests on four posts met by a square plinth style stretcher.

The Parson style Dining Bench offers a unique and casual alternative for seating needs. The bench has an open upholstered back that reclines slightly for comfort and supported by three back posts that carry down to form its six legs outlined in a single carved bead. A simple horizontal stretcher joins the legs. Antique Brass nail head trim follows the back and seat in decorative detail.

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.