Next to color, fabric is one of the hardest design elements to decipher on-line. It needs to be seen, studied and touched to get a better feel for the hand of the fabric. Last Wednesday, we went to the unveiling of new additions to the “Le Jardin Chinois Collection” of Brunschwig & Fils at Interiors Trading here in Orlando. While I managed to capture a few images, I almost didn’t because I was so busy ooohing and aaaahing during the presentation. You can pretty much conclude that I was not disappointed in the least bit.

In case you didn’t know, Brunschwig & Fils is now a member of the Kravet family. Being the hallmark of craftsmanship, the Brunschwig and Fils continues its trademark of delivering quality. They offer more than 3000 fabrics and 500 wall coverings, ranging from documentary reproductions to striking contemporary designs. Their resources include relationships with more than 200 mills from around the world. One apparent fact is that Brunschwig does not retire its design quickly, of the designs in today’s collections date back to the early 1940s. Many of the collections are inspired by museum or historic place.

Panthere Velvet - 6 Colorways – Shown here is the Panthere Velvet Aqua and the Panthere Velvet Spice - both are equally fabulous. Probably my favorite of the entire line because of the animal print pattern and colors offered. Striking in presentation, heavy-duty and suggested for upholstery use. See more of this line  here.Zhen Velvet - 4 Colorways – Shown here is Zhen Velvet Turquoise and Zhen Velvet Ruby: “Adapted from a document in the Brunschwig archive, this 18th century design takes on a new and luxurious aspect as a velvet.” For upholstery use – see more of this textile here.   Alto Velvet – 4 Colorways – CHINA BLUE – Resembling riples of water, this is a heavy-duty fabric that will take a beating. One interior designer in audience even commented that she would use for a rug – that’s an interesting spin but it is pretty heavy. Take a better look at this beautiful print and I’m sure you’ll see what I see.  Bamboo Trellis Embroidery [on the left] – 5 colorways – Shown here in Bamboo Trellis Green. Another fantastic addition to the Le Jardin Collection. Big, bold and lively print that will dress and complement your space nicely. Check out more of this fabric here.

Harmony Stripe [on the right] - 6 colorways – Shown here in Harmony Stripe Green. ”The 18th century fascination with chinoiserie continued into the reign of Louis XVI, and blended with the striped and pastel colorings typical of late 18th centruy France. A striped silk from the period, now part of the Brunschwig archive, has been reproduced in practical cotton.” More of this line available here.

River Song Print (4 Colorways) and River Song Embroidery (3 Colorways). “Vignettes of varied Chinese figures, dancing or playing musical instruments and set within fantastic frames of foliage and flowers, clearly demonstrate a continuing debt to the mid-18th century  engravings by Pillement.”  I would have to say I was most impressed with the embroidery of this fabric. To see it up close is extraordinary.

What I like about these new additions is that there’s a print for just about any design style. There’s a variety of prints, colors and textures to spice up a space. While some are pricey per yard, there’s no substitution for quality. Impressed by this short preview, then hop on over to Brunschwig to see much more of the Le Jardin Chinois Collection.

Cheers