Brentano

Part of the fun of working in the design industry, as with the fashion industry, is the fabric. The colors, patterns, textures and mixes of all of these things can change a room, a house, and your feelings instantly. When you want calm, or energy, brightness, or thoughtfulness, all you have to do is surround yourself with the right fabrics. And sometimes, it works in reverse too - the fabrics speak to you, and evoke a certain feeling as soon as you see them. And often dictate to you what exactly should be made from the fabric you fall in love with (and not just from a practical standpoint since not all fabrics can be used for all applications). But as I've written about before, the textile industry is actually one of the more environmentally challenging industries in design. Not only does the material the fabric is made from impact us, but how it is grown or obtained, how it is processed, and how it is dyed. The water usage, chemical usage, and waste production from the various steps, from planting the seeds to creating the threads, all impact us. And finally, when the fabric is made and on your pieces of furniture, what are the chemicals that are being released into the air from all the processes that happened before it got to our homes? These are all the important factors that we have to consider when picking a fabric. One of the fabric lines that I always go to is Brentano. And amongst their many styles and patterns, are an ever growing number of "Brentano Green" fabrics. The fabrics are either made from recycled materials, or natural and rapidly renewable resources that are grown without the use of harsh chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers. They even focus their efforts on sourcing from fabric mills that pay attention to social responsibility, human rights, and eco-consciousness.

Look at all the wonderful patterns, colors and materials below - from recycled polyester like the "House Party" fabric below & above (what a fun fabric!)


To gorgeous EcoWool - theses stripes are so handsome. I love the color palettes and variations on the thickness and style of stripes.


To fabulously fun Faux Leather - the "DeVine" pattern is both easy to clean and totally youthful.


The Casita below is another of the 100% recycled Polyester fabrics. The subtle pattern and soft colorways are excellent for upholstery.


One of my absolute favorite Faux leathers happens to be a Brentano - the Amazon collection. I just love both the snakeskin pattern, the feel, the sheen level, and all the fun colors!


This textured and woven recycled Polyester "Bark Cloth" is the perfect drapery for a casual room. The subtle mix of hues is wonderful, enabling you to pull a bit of color and depth into a neutral palette.


And my personal favorite - Zebra Faux Leather!! A total wow!