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Larch + Porter: The Design Stories Behind Two Signature Patterns

A high-quality design is one that has lasting resonance. It’s eye-catching yet classic, and it has a unique visual appeal that stands the test of time.

At Unison, we’re proud to have two beautiful patterns that meet these exacting standards: Larch and Porter. Each of these patterns is original to Unison and has a fascinating design story. And though they feature very different looks, they both make wonderful additions to our bedding collection and other Unison designs.

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Larch: An Organic Print with a Personal Touch

Of all the modern designs at Unison, none are as personal to our history as the Larch pattern. Its history connects directly to that of Unison’s co-founders Robert and Alicia Segal. In fact, the Larch print is based on a photograph that Alicia took while enjoying a nature walk at the family farm in Wisconsin.

The crisp air of early spring set the stage. New buds hadn’t yet emerged on the branches, which allowed for clear views of each tree’s tangled branches. One particular tree, a Tamarack, caught Alicia’s eye. As a trained photographer, she could see a striking composition with the silhouette of the branches against a pale gray sky.

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The photo she captured in that moment would go on to become a Unison classic. But first, the design duo had to determine the best way to utilize this distinctive image. A solarized treatment was considered to retain the photographic quality. However, a simpler approach was deemed a better fit in order to emphasize the organic lines and create a pattern with longevity in mind.

The tree branch silhouette was abstracted and translated into a large-scale design. The image could be easily worked into a repeat pattern without sacrificing its natural, untamed appearance. In addition, the silhouette design allowed for a variety of colorways to reflect how the colors of the tree shifted through the seasons.

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Although the Larch print is original to Unison, it has made quite an impact in the design world. At a time when Unison was still quite unknown, it was featured on the cover of the CB2 catalog as Teal bedding through their collaboration. When Unison introduced the Plum colorway as bedding in 2010, it caught the attention of architect Christopher Deam, husband of Dwell Magazine founder Lara Deam. Larch Plum bedding was selected as a design package offered in new Airstream interiors, which Christopher was designing at the time.

Porter: Tailored Stripes for a Dapper Look

The backstory behind our sophisticated Porter print derived from another pattern in Unison’s debut bedding collection: Pinstripe. The Pinstripe print focused on a dark, saturated background in a single color. Bold white stripes stretched across horizontally, creating a high-contrast effect.

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Although the Pinstripe print was popular, Alicia and Robert sought to create a design that inverted this color distribution for a softer appearance. The new pattern featured very fine lines in tight repetition across a classic ivory background. At first, a name proved elusive. Taking inspiration from the Pinstripe moniker, the sensibility of shirting and suit fabrics came to mind, along with a nostalgic past of sophisticated urban movement. As such, the name Porter emerged.

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The Porter design provides the perfect blend of timeless vintage inspiration and modern simplicity. Although the striped print appears neat and tailored, it doesn’t look formal or stuffy. The lines can be arranged in different orientations for a subtle contrast, like in the vertically striped sheets paired with horizontally striped pillowcases.

Porter has become one of the most iconic and timeless patterns at Unison. This core pattern is incredibly versatile and practical while still bringing a fresh aesthetic to any space. In addition to bedding, it has been featured on aprons, napkins, placemats and tablecloths.

Modern Bedding Designs

Both Larch and Porter have remained relevant in the years since their introduction. They’ve been reimagined in new colorways and can be mixed and matched with other prints to create an eye-catching combination. Today, you’ll find these patterns on a variety of our high-quality bedding products, including duvet covers, throw blankets, pillowcases and sheets.

 

 

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Jasper Morrison: A Living Legend of Simple, Modern Design

“Objects should never shout.”

Uttered in a rare interview, these words concisely sum up the value and purpose of Jasper Morrison’s creations. As a designer, Morrison is best known for his ultra-minimalist approach to everything from furniture and lighting to everyday products.

That isn’t to say that Morrison’s designs are lacking in necessary features and functions. Each piece has been carefully constructed to not only look beautiful, but also to serve a practical purpose. However, it’s his commitment to visual simplicity which allows Morrison’s designs to fit seamlessly into any space.

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Morrison’s Design Journey

Born in London, Jasper Morrison became dedicated to a career in design from an early age. After studying at the Kingston Polytechnic Design School and the Royal College of Art in the early 1980s, he opened his Office for Design in London. By that time, he had already developed some remarkably innovative designs, including the imaginative Handlebar Table and his iconic Thinking Man’s Chair.

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As he launched new designs from his base in London, Morrison’s design philosophy crystallized further. The Plywood Chair, launched in 1988, has an extremely simplified, almost barebones silhouette. However, the unique seat creates a kind of cushioning effect, proving that a minimalist, “honest” design didn’t necessitate the sacrifice of comfort or usability.

Morrison’s design mission has been described as “to produce everyday objects for everyone’s use, make things lighter not heavier, softer not harder, inclusive rather than exclusive, generate energy, light and space.” In all of his designs, including dinnerware, furniture and even door handles, Morrison strives to achieve an improved version of classic, timeless objects. He doesn’t aim to reinvent them, however. Instead, he works to enhance their form and function by stripping them down to the most basic — and most beautiful — intrinsic qualities.

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Besides his independent innovations, Morrison has designed furniture and products for companies like Emeco, Vitra, Flos, Muji and Alessi. Among his most notable designs are the Emeco Alfi Reclaimed Work Chair and the 1 Inch Reclaimed Stacking Chair, each of which offers a fresh, streamlined take on a classic chair style.

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The Alfi Reclaimed Work Chair removes the excess bulk seen in many of today’s desk chairs. Optimized for productivity and comfort, the chair exhibits a thin, sleek silhouette. The gentle curves which make it comfortable to sit in for hours at a time are subtle and refined. Although it has most of the bells and whistles that make for a quality, versatile work chair — a durable swivel base, gas shock seat suspension, adjustable seat height and smooth-rolling multi-surface casters — these features have been artfully incorporated for a pared-down appearance.

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With the 1 Inch Reclaimed Stacking Chair, Morrison puts his own spin on an iconic design. Inspired by Emeco’s 1006 Navy Chair, it features a similarly simplified silhouette with an eye toward long-lasting durability. Morrison’s chair has a solid back with a softer, more rounded shape. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, the 1 Inch Reclaimed Stacking Chair features a convenient stackable design and comes in classic neutral tones that effortlessly complement its surroundings.

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Both of these chairs take a sustainable approach to design that aligns with Morrison’s goal of improving upon well-established product concepts. To create the Alfi Chair, 100% recycled polypropylene is combined with mixed wood fiber, which is then molded to form the smoothly curved seat.

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The 1 Inch Reclaimed Stacking Chair is crafted from recycled wood-filled polypropylene (WPP), an eco-friendly material that drastically reduces the environmental impact of furniture production by transforming lumber yard and industrial off-cuts and into a high-quality, ultra-durable composite.

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With extreme attention to detail and a refined design, every Jasper Morrison piece is a timeless work of art that doubles as a practical addition to your home.

 

 

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Ethnicraft’s Quality Furniture and Commitment to Sustainability

A souvenir found on one of your travels can add an eye-catching accessory to a bookshelf or mantel. An ornate serving piece will wow your dinner party guests. But the central pieces in your home deserve to be just as beautiful, and the way they weave themselves into your everyday life can make them even more meaningful.

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Ethnicraft offers these types of home essentials featuring simple, refined designs, quality materials and superior craftsmanship. A strong commitment to sustainability also ensures that the company prioritizes environmental concerns every step of the way. Learn more about Ethnicraft as well as two of their masterful home furniture designs: the Air Oak Dining Table and Bok Oak Dining Chair.

Foundations for Your Home
Ethnicraft was founded in Antwerp, Belgium over 25 years ago. Cofounders Benoit Loos and Philippe Delaisse used their creative expertise to carve out the unique identity of the company.

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The combination of form and function is Ethnicraft’s driving force, ensuring that each piece is elegant and inviting while also providing practical uses and versatility in the home. In addition, Loos and Delaisse purposefully select materials that bring warmth to family spaces. Many of their creations, like dining tables and chairs, are the foundational items you see, touch and use every single day. Ethnicraft’s philosophy is that these pieces should be beautiful, inspiring and full of character — especially because they inevitably become incorporated into the memories and meaning of your life.

Good design is the basis for every Ethnicraft creation, which means that pieces are made with high-quality materials. Thanks to outstanding craftsmanship, their home furniture and accessories are made to last and age beautifully over time.

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This is a natural convergence with the company’s sustainable practices, with longer product life spans ultimately leading to less overall consumption. Ethnicraft also uses wood from sustainably managed forests, which helps to protect local ecosystems and ensure the availability of high-quality timber for future generations.

Timeless Dining Furniture
The Air Oak Dining Table from Ethnicraft is a beautiful example of the company’s values put into action. It showcases simple, crisp lines and appears light and airy to the eye. It also features a strong, sturdy design with impressive durability thanks to the inner MDF core and steel rod-reinforced legs.

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When you take a closer look at the table, the exceptional craftsmanship is evident. Small touches like rounded beveled edges and curved mitered corners at the legs add elegant details, and the lightly pigmented matte finish enhances the white oak wood’s natural grain. Available in three lengths (55″, 79″ and 94″), it functions beautifully as a kitchen table where morning coffees are sipped, a gathering point for family meals and board games or a dining room fixture fit for entertaining.

Ethnicraft’s Bok Oak Dining Chair is the perfect pairing for this piece. Like the Air Oak Dining Table, it features beautiful white oak with visible grain. The hardwax oil finish and solid wood construction add to the durability of the design, and the smooth, sculpted silhouette complements the table’s minimalist shape.
The distinctive lines of the chair are worthy of admiration, combining a comfortable curved back with gracefully angled legs and a beveled seat. The unnecessary bulk has been carved away, leaving behind an artful shape that’s immediately inviting.

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In keeping with the company’s environmentally friendly approach, Ethnicraft furniture is produced with a no-waste philosophy. All off-cuts and scraps are used for other purposes. Sawdust is utilized as fuel for drying ovens or compressed to make pellets, while larger wood pieces are repurposed to create box joints. These sustainable processes align with the original vision that Loos and Delaisse had for Ethnicraft from the very beginning.

Shop The Ethnicraft Collection

 

 

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All About Cork: Reasons to Love This Sustainable Material

The beautiful grain of white oak. The effortless elegance of ceramic. The soft texture of linen. Every material has its unique allure, and cork is no exception. We’re excited to share what makes cork so special — along with an introduction of our exclusive Centerpiece Cork Bowl and Tray.

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Where Does Cork Come From?
Grown primarily in Portugal, Spain and other countries along the western shores of the Mediterranean Sea, cork trees thrive in a warm coastal region with abundant sunshine and moist soil. And since only the thick, spongy bark needs to be removed to harvest cork, these tall evergreen trees can provide a continuous supply over decades or even centuries.

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Once cork trees reach the age of around 25, harvesters carefully remove the bark. This extraction method is 100% safe for the tree and can be repeated in cycles every 9 to 10 years. A cork tree can live for 180 to 200 years, allowing for about 15 to 20 extractions over its lifespan.

Extraction is just the beginning of the journey for cork. Post-harvest, cork bark is placed between cement slabs for six months. The cork is then boiled to sterilize and soften the material before being shaped into the desired product.

Cork’s Eco-Friendly Features
The way that cork is harvested is certainly one of its primary benefits in terms of sustainability. Cork is a 100% natural, renewable resource that contributes to an important ecological environment in western Mediterranean countries. It’s also biodegradable, recyclable and reusable.

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An eco-friendly approach is used for cork processing, which operates with little to no waste. In fact, many cork-base products for industry and domestic use are created using the discarded pieces from cork stoppers and other cork waste. Leftover fragments are ground down into grains and repurposed for all kinds of cork products.

The ground cork is packed into molds and pressed into shape by hydraulic force without the use of chemicals or glues. Pressure and high-heat steam is all that’s needed to allow the natural resins in the granules to release and stick together, creating agglomerated cork blocks. These blocks are then cut and shaped to create all sorts of products.

Centerpiece Cork Bowls and Trays
The Centerpiece Cork Bowl and Tray, which are made in Portugal with locally grown cork, combine form and function to bring out the very best that this material has to offer. The cork’s warm, natural tone serves as an attractive element in any home, and the organic, minimalist shapes of these pieces are simple and timeless.

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The bowl has smooth sculpted curves, while the tray serving platter features a subtle raised edge. Each of these designs is also conveniently practical for serving and dining purposes. Its naturally antimicrobial and water-repellent properties help to keep produce fresher longer and prevent pesky fruit flies from swarming.

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Keep healthy snacks on hand by filling the Centerpiece Cork Bowl fruits and veggies. On the Centerpiece Cork Tray, pile up pastries and bagels for a breakfast spread. The combination of fresh foods and cork’s natural beauty creates an inviting display on any table or countertop.

Shop The Centerpiece Cork Collection

 

 

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Crow Canyon: Timeless + Handmade Enamelware

At Unison, we love to feature items that can be passed down from generation to generation due to their timeless design. So, it only makes sense that we partnered with Crow Canyon. Their modern enamelware is designed to stand the test of time while also bringing a beautiful accent to any meal.

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A Women-Owned Business with Purpose
With Owner and President Cara Barde at the helm, Crow Canyon is a proud women-owned and operated small business based in Northern California. Founded in 1977, the company’s name derives from a former headquarters on Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon, California. Many of Barde’s family members work alongside her, which brings a personal, meaningful approach to the company’s designs and helps to underscore their values-driven mission.

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That mission revolves around sustainability, focusing on a zero-waste philosophy. Crow Canyon’s eco-friendly enamelware is incredibly durable and holds up beautifully decade after decade. Because these pieces are so well-made, they reduce unnecessary waste. Crow Canyon enamelware is designed to last, which makes each piece certain to become a mainstay in your family’s mealtime routine.

Functional, Effortless and Fun
All of Crow Canyon’s enamelware pieces are made using centuries-old craftsmanship and high-quality materials. The process begins when porcelain is carefully fused onto steel to create a hardwearing, shatterproof base.

The lightweight pieces are then dipped by hand to add multiple coats for a smooth finish. In many cases, artistic splashes of color, fun patterns or detailed illustrations are added to the exterior for a fresh, distinctive look. Even if they become chipped, Crow Canyon products are still completely food safe, and they’re easy to clean and oven safe.

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The versatile functionality and reliable durability of this enamelware allows for easy indoor and outdoor dining. In fact, the porcelain-coated steel base is designed to stand up to high heat, which means that bowls, trays and pans can be effortlessly popped into the oven or warmed over the fire without causing any damage. With an array of simple, minimalist designs and eye-catching patterns and colors, Crow Canyon makes it easy to bring a beautiful and fun touch to the dining table or picnic table.

Crow Canyon at Unison
Some of Crow Canyon’s most iconic and inspired designs can be found at Unison. The brand’s Splatter Enamelware Collection features hand-splattered dots which have been applied by skilled artisans, making each tray and bowl one-of-a-kind. The bold hues and attention-grabbing speckles make for a showstopper on any table, and the high-sided tray is a favorite for making homemade deep-dish pan pizzas. The Splatter Bowls include a larger size suited for crisp salads or buttered popcorn as well as a smaller serve bowl for side salads, afternoon snacks, cereal and more.

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In keeping with their California roots, Crow Canyon also has a collection of Rainbow Falls Enamelware. Featuring a pattern inspired by the contrasting beauty found at Rainbow Falls in Mammoth Lakes, each tray in this series is accented by vibrant splashes of red, green, blue and yellow.

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Crow Canyon Enamelware is designed to become your go-to for family meals gathered around the dinner table, casual backyard barbecues with friends, camping adventures in the woods and much more. Easy to use and care for, these high-quality pieces are still beautiful enough to take center stage at your table.

 

 

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Kay Bojesen: Timeless Wood Handicrafts

Distinguished figures from design history continue to provide inspiration for today’s modern homes. Kay Bojesen is one of those figures who revolutionized design in the 1930s with his iconic solid wood handicrafts. The Menageri series by Bojesen offers the chance to enjoy an important piece of design history in your home.

Kay Bojesen’s Legacy

Born in 1886, Bojesen would become one of the most notable names in Danish design. He first trained as a silversmith in 1910, focusing on functionalism as the driving force behind his designs. After the birth of his son in 1919, memories of his own childhood began to flourish, leading him to incorporate playful elements in his work. In the 1930s, Bojeson developed a series of wooden animals that would become some of his most well known and recognizable designs. These wooden objects combined the best of fun and functionality, while also being thoughtfully designed to feel good in the hand. Bojesen’s mantra was that “the line should smile.” This guided him to tell a story through each of his characters, giving his creations a warm and inviting appeal.

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In addition to his famous wooden characters, Bojesen also developed a number of practical items for the home. Using his egalitarian design philosophy, he made every day pieces feel elegant yet approachable. From bowls and cutlery to pepper grinders and egg cups, his items are crafted of solid wood and feature his signature smiling lines that add a touch of sensuousness. Bojesen achieved his vision of making great design that was not limited to elite spaces and special occasions, but part of our everyday lives.

Bojesen’s solid wood handicrafts continue to be admired by design lovers around the world. His ability to incorporate imagination, play and humor into his pieces instilled a timeless quality into every design. The commitment to good craftsmanship and beautiful details continues today through the design company he founded in 1932, which is now overseen by his youngest granddaughter, Sus Bojesen Rosenqvist.

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The Menageri Series at Unison

At first glance, the pieces in the Menageri series by Kay Bojesen appear perfectly in line with modern styles, infusing simple, streamlined shapes with the warmth of wood. But as with many things, Bojesen was ahead of his time when he designed this collection, which debuted in the 1940s. The soft, organic shapes of the Menageri series serve as inviting accessories to daily meals. The rounded surfaces are pleasant to hold, from the gentle curve of each bowl to the arched handle of the serving spoon and fork. All Menageri pieces are crafted with FSC-Certified oak and feature a smooth, food-grade oiled finish. The natural, visible wood grains add to its handcrafted appeal. A timeless quality makes each bowl and server an organic and beautiful addition to your dinner table.

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Whether you’re serving up fresh leafy greens, a perfectly dressed pasta salad or another appealing entrée or side, you’ll find that Menageri bowls and servers offer the durability needed for everyday meals and the elegance you desire for entertaining. The 5.5-inch Menageri Oak Bowl is ideal for single servings or optional toppings placed conveniently on the table. Use the 9.75-inch Menageri Oak Serving Bowl to present simple salads with a touch of Bojesen’s signature charm and simplicity. Complete your collection with the Menageri Oak Salad Server Set, an expertly crafted tool ready to dole out servings effortlessly. These pieces are not only utilitarian in nature, but they also bring a piece of design history into your home.

Learn more about the Menageri Collection

 

 

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Handmade Ilog Platters by Debbie Carlos

Debbie Carlos is a Michigan-based artist and photographer who grew up in Manila, Philippines where she derives inspiration from both nature and the Tagalog culture. Our partnership with Debbie began in 2013 when she documented the Unison studio and warehouse along with select artists and suppliers. The partnership continued in 2017, when her images were prominently featured in the Fall catalog.

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But photographs are only the beginning when it comes to this artist’s impressive work. After developing a successful career as a fine art and commercial photographer, Debbie decided to explore new mediums and has since become a talented ceramicist. In 2021, Unison introduced her handmade Ilog Bowls to the Holiday Collection as a limited edition run. They were a smash hit, selling out within a month of their launch. This year, another iteration of that very design has been added to the holiday collection: the Ilog White And Tan Platter.

Crafted by Hand
The Ilog White And Tan Platter has an undeniably handmade look and feel. A speckled white satin glaze flows over the stoneware surface, pooling and dripping down the sides before hardening into its final form. Ilog (pronounced ee-lohg) actually means “river” in Tagalog, a name inspired by this noteworthy feature. Part of what makes the Ilog Collection so fascinating is how this glaze never fails to create distinctive and unexpected patterns. By allowing the glaze to flow freely, Debbie is able to capture a more naturalistic look that reflects the movement of river water.

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The ceramic base of the Ilog Platter and its glazed accents work together seamlessly. Crafted from speckled tan ceramic stoneware, the base’s raw texture creates a tactile contrast to the smooth white glaze. The neutral tan and white tones complement one another, while the sheen of the glaze stands out against the matte base.

The Ilog Platter taps into a philosophy that Debbie has carried with her throughout her artistic endeavors. It features a playful quality that brings a sense of delight to the simple things. Its minimalist tones underscore that simplicity, and the flowing glaze patterns touch on the feeling of a moment captured in time — almost like a photograph.

Versatile Uses at Home
Whether you already own Ilog Bowls from the previous limited run, or you’re new to Debbie’s work, you’ll find that the Ilog White And Tan Platter carries an impressive number of potential uses in the home. Its gently sloped sides create a perfect border for snack plates that brim with fruits, cheeses and crackers or delicious side dishes for sharing, like roasted vegetables or freshly baked rolls.

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Those lucky enough to own an Ilog Bowl can combine the two to create a coordinated spread for family meals or dinner parties. The 12″ size can also function as a dinner plate, providing plenty of space for generous individual servings. This remarkable serveware piece can remain on display in your kitchen in between every day uses and special occasions, as it is something you’ll want to proudly highlight as an artistic contribution to the home.

Learn more about the Ilog White And Tan Platter

 

 

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Functional Ceramics by W/R/F

A focus on simple, clean aesthetics makes W/R/F a perfect fit for Unison. Founded in 2012 by Japanese artist Nobuhito Nishigawara, W/R/F offers a line of handmade stoneware that ranges from small accent vases to modern dinnerware. Both functional and beautiful, these pieces are designed for daily use while adding an artisanal touch.

Nishigawara’s popular Thrown Collection, which includes the Thrown Bud Vases and Thrown Gloss White Dinnerware, has already built him a strong following. The story behind his journey with ceramics provides more insight into his unique approach to the art form.

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Falling in Love with Ceramics
For Nishigawara, an interest in pottery began early on during his childhood in Japan, where ceramic-making traditions date back to 14,500 BCE. Nishigawara moved to Canada at the age of fifteen, and it wasn’t until he lived an ocean away that he began to learn the art form himself.

“I went to community college in Canada and met a Japanese professor and fell in love with working with clay,” Nishigawara explains. That professor, artist Sadashi Inuzuka, helped train him in ceramic art and installation work. Nishigawara went on to receive a BFA from the Kansas City Art Institute and an MFA from Arizona State University, developing a career in conceptual ceramic artworks which were displayed across the United States and internationally.

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Nishigawara also began crafting a few ceramic pieces for the home, including a set of dishes for his wife, Lesley Kice Nishigawara, as a Mother’s Day gift in 2011. “She told me I should make more. That’s how it all started,” he says. The following year, Nishigawara founded his own studio. His family name, 西川原, translates to West River Field, inspiring the name W/R/F.

A Collaborative Process
Nishigawara ceramics are handmade in Southern California at the W/R/F studio with the help of four assisting artists. While careful attention is paid to each piece, the studio is full of energy and constantly buzzing with creative activity. “My work environment is hectic. [It’s a] small shop with many people, [and we’re] multi-tasking all the time,” he explains.

That process begins with the simplest form: a ball of clay, of which Nishigawara prepares about 50 per day. That clay is cut into smaller pieces and any air bubbles are removed before they’re thrown on a potter’s wheel and shaped into their intended forms — a method that directly inspired the name of the Thrown stoneware collection.

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Next is the drying stage, which takes place overnight in a damp, moisture-controlled room. The next day, each piece is trimmed and stamped, creating slight variations for a one-of-a-kind result. Then, they’re left to continue drying for another seven days. “Loading the bisque kiln is the next step,” Nishigawara explains. “This is the process [in which] clay becomes ceramic, and this initial firing takes three days.” Once the kiln is cooled, glazes can be applied. Pieces with raw finishes are placed in a larger kiln with a hotter temperature, which melts and forms a glassy surface. Each member of the team contributes to these pieces as they transform from simple balls of clay into handcrafted vases, plates, bowls and more.

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Simple, Practical and Beautiful
The thoughtful design principles behind W/R/F ceramics shine through every piece, particularly the Thrown Bud Vases and Thrown Gloss White Dinnerware. In addition to traditional Japanese artistry of ceramics, Nishigawara incorporates the philosophy of Mingei or “art of the people,” which emphasizes the value of beautiful handmade goods that are both functional and accessible.

The minimal and clean aesthetic of the Thrown Dinnerware Collection taps into this approach with a classic glossy white finish which showcases every meal on the perfect blank canvas. Features such as tapered sides and rounded rims contribute to the quality look and feel of this hand-thrown pottery line, which includes classic dinner plates, high-sided plates and flat-bottomed bowls.

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The Thrown Bud Vase Collection fuses Nishigawara’s minimalist design principles with a splash of nature-inspired color. Perfectly sized for a miniature floral arrangement, each short and stout vessel features a rounded top and slightly tapered sides. A colorful glaze covers most of the piece, creating a distinctive contrast with an exposed portion of raw natural matte clay at the bottom.

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A perfectly imperfect glaze application is integral to W/R/F’s Thrown Collection, exemplifying the handmade appeal of Nishigawara’s designs and imbuing each piece with a unique, one-of-a-kind beauty.

Shop W/R/F

 

 

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Signature Textiles: Unison Patterned Throw Pillows

Textiles are an essential element in home design, adding warmth and texture to our day-to-day lives. A few touches of beautifully crafted fabric can transform a space to make it more comfortable and inviting.

The signature Unison Throw Pillow Collection is a perfect example of the way in which textiles can make a major impact — even in small doses. First introduced in 2010, the textile patterns in this collection are undeniably timeless thanks to understated details and neutral tones. At the same time, the simple, precise lines in each design add a modern touch that’s right in line with today’s minimalist trends.

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A perennial favorite at Unison, these signature Throw Pillows have just been re-released for 2022. These distinctive fabrics make it easy to update your space with touches of high-quality, carefully crafted textiles.

Three Remarkable Patterns
The Unison Throw Pillow Collection is available in three patterns, all of which are exclusive to Unison. First up, there’s Stitch, an all-over print that quickly became a Unison fan favorite after its initial debut in 2010. First featured on pillow covers, this pattern became part of a bedding collection in 2013 and a bath collection in 2017. It was also featured on the soft Stitch Rug in 2018. The graphic design features a dotted dash presented at an angle, created the appearance of hand-sewn stitches. Thanks to the diagonal positioning, the dashes take on a feeling of dynamic movement without looking busy or distracting. Each dash was drawn by hand, so there are slight variations that make the pattern look soft and natural rather than regimented. The classic neutral color scheme works in just about any space.

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The next pattern is Sailor, which features thin, dark stripes on a white background for a nautical-inspired appearance. The high-contrast design creates a fresh and tailored look that instantly spruces up any chair or sofa. The Sailor pattern has a classic feel that works well with both traditional and modern aesthetics, and the stripes can be aligned vertically or horizontally to draw the eye up or out. In addition to throw pillows, the Sailor print has been featured on Unison bedding and even Unison digitally printed wallpaper.

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Lastly, the Tiles pattern effortlessly blends timeless and contemporary styles with a structured and calming geometric print. Arranged in a grid style, the repeating squares reflect classic checked patterns, but with a modern twist. The neutral Black and White tones seamlessly coordinate with any other colors in your space while still serving as a sophisticated statement piece.

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The three patterns in the Unison Throw Pillow collection have complementary tones and designs, allowing for mixing and matching within one space or even on a single piece of furniture. Due to the timeless nature of the patterns, the pillows can be moved from room to room and persist as staple accents when upgrading furniture, paint colors and other elements of your home over the years.

Made by a Trusted Unison Partner
A great level of care and craftsmanship goes into transforming each of these three signature prints into throw pillows. The bulk of this effort takes place at Griswold Textile Print Company, a longtime manufacturer for Unison and a family-owned and operated business since 1937.

The partnership with Griswold extends all the way back to the very beginning of Unison in 2006. This manufacturer was selected not only for the high quality of the work they produce, but also due to the hands-on, artisan nature of their craft. Griswold Textile Print Company is one of the few hand-print mills left in the United States. Their hand-screening process is rare in today’s world, where textile manufacturing has become highly automated and mechanized.

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Located on the Pawcatuck River in the White Rock section of Westerly, Rhode Island, the Griswold textile mill uses a traditional hand-printing process that begins with large-scale fine mesh screens prepared with Unison’s signature patterns. Large buckets of ink are poured on one end of the screen, with 100% cotton sailcloth fabric placed underneath. A large squeegee is used to pull the ink across the screen and produce the pattern.

Once inked and dried, large rolls of fabric are shipped to the Unison headquarters in Chicago, where each one is carefully inspected. A local sewing company then converts the patterned fabric into individual throw pillow covers.

Durable and designed to invigorate your space with crisp, classic prints, Unison Throw Pillow Covers are an ideal accessory for any space. Choose one of the three exclusive patterns or mix and match multiple prints to add comfortable cushioning and a modern touch accent to sofas, chairs, beds and more.

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YYY Coffee Tables: Award-Winning Design by TON

It’s rare to see a fresh take on the classic coffee table, but that may just be the perfect way to describe the YYY Coffee Table collection by TON. With a focus on simple construction and incredible attention to detail, designer Alexander Gufler developed a creative silhouette that’s just as functional as it is striking. Made from PEFC-certified wood that has been sustainably harvested, the tables are available in a natural, light oak with a clear lacquer finish or a deep black stained beech that complement any decor. Learn more about these innovative products, as well as the history behind the beloved TON brand.

Distinctive Design Features

What makes the YYY Coffee Table unique? The first thing you’ll notice is a perfectly rounded tabletop with the exception of a single flat edge. That straight side adds a modern detail to the piece while also broadening its possibilities for use. It seamlessly slides up to a sofa, chair, bed or wall to keep items within reach, and maximizes available floor space in smaller settings.

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So, why is this collection called YYY? The answer lies underneath each table. The triple-leg base comes together at the center to form a “Y” shape, while also providing a sturdy, wobble-free foundation.

Even the packaging for the YYY collection is thoughtful and modern. The tables are flat packed, which makes for a smaller carbon footprint. Assembly is streamlined as well, making it easy to put the table together in just minutes at home.

Sized Right for Any Space

With three sizes available, YYY Coffee Tables are made to fit in any room. For large living areas, the 31.5” diameter YYY table can serve as a central point for furniture arrangements. The 23.5” YYY table works equally well as a nightstand or side table, while the 17.75” version fits neatly into tight spots.

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The diameter isn’t the only difference between our three available sizes, each also comes in a different height, ranging from 13.75” for the largest table to 19.75” for the smallest. Grouping the three sizes together instantly creates a multi-level, dynamic surface area that’s perfect for showcasing decorative items and serving up drinks and snacks. Alternatively, you can position them in different places — situated in front of the sofa, alongside a chair, next to a window, nestled in an entryway, etc. — for a coordinated look throughout your space.

Winner of Two Prestigious Awards

In 2020, TON’s YYY Coffee Tables took home two noteworthy awards in the field of design. The first was the Good Design award, for which the YYY collection was selected from more than 900 different products representing 47 countries.

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In addition, the YYY Coffee Tables were named as winners of the highly competitive iF Design Award. A 78-member jury, made up of independent experts from all over the world, selected the tables from 7,298 entries submitted from 56 countries.

TON’s Place in Design History

TON is a furniture maker with a long history. Over 160 years ago, inventor and entrepreneur Michael Thonet settled in the town of Bystřice pod Hostýnem in the Czech Republic. He built a factory there in 1861, and it remains the oldest surviving factory of its kind in the world. Dozens of skilled craftsmen continue to make beautiful bentwood furniture by hand, to this day.

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The founder’s lasting vision has persisted through modern times, upheld through generations by a line of dedicated design leaders. TON has consistently prioritized quality craftsmanship, natural materials and sustainability. These values are evident in the YYY collection as well as other TON products featured at Unison at Unison, including the Stockholm Side Chair, 811 Chair and Logs Coat Hanger, all designed to be beautiful, durable and timeless.

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