Thomas O’Brien was Safavieh’s first personality to design a rug collection for the company, and his line grows at High Point this month, with new patterns. In addition, the designer himself will be on hand to sign copies of his first book, “American Modern.”
Known for merging traditional styles with modern looks, O’Brien’s latest designs are no exception. Not the usual animal print, Esmeralda Trellis uses paw prints and leopard spots in an airy trellis design. An antique Imari porcelain pattern provides the inspiration for another new pattern, Imari Floral.
“Thomas O’Brien pioneered the style of warm modernism, and his talent for linking the best of traditional and modern design elements makes his rug collections for Safavieh unique and highly saleable,” said Arash Yaraghi, principal of Safavieh.
The company will hold a book signing and reception for O’Brien on Monday, April 19, in the Courtyard at Market Square. Held from 6-8:30 p.m., the book signing will include cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Safavieh’s Martha Stewart collection will also expand at the market. Her 100 percent wool micro-hook collection, which replicates the look of Wilton weave carpets, will have additions, and there will also be new cotton hooked and hand-tufted wool and viscose patterns.
In addition, Safavieh will debut its Amagansett hand-knotted wool rug line, which has an aged look due to the washing of the space-dyed wool before it is woven and again after weaving, and then the pile is sheered very low. Expansion of the eco-friendly Bohemian line includes its first patterns on coarsely woven, textural jute and aloe rugs, which range from traditional Oushak designs to a dramatic tiger motif in fashion colors.
Thomas O’Brien’s Esmeralda Trellis design for Safavieh translates an animal print into a loose trellis design. safavieh.com