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McGuire Introduces The Danish Cord Series | November 2006
SAN FRANCISCO (November 2006) ? McGuire, world renowned for its exquisitely handcrafted contemporary designer furniture, introduces its newest collection, The Danish Cord Series. Designed by Glyn Peter Machin, a multi-disciplinary designer, this well-edited and refined collection includes 7 living, dining and occasional pieces.
The forms of these seven pieces are interpretations of traditional Danish design, updated and executed in McGuire's signature material: rattan. Simplicity in material does not eliminate the complexity of construction: stunning three dimensional curves dramatically articulate the art of hand craftsmanship. Visual depth is achieved with the use of varying pole dimensions, resulting in gracious uninterrupted lines that provide maximum structural strength. The woven cord detail in each of the pieces' deck is inspired from classic Danish Modern design; the down and feather upholstered cushions provide luxurious, contemporary comfort. This collection is an extraordinary example of simplicity of form combined with detailed manufacturing execution.
The Danish Cord Series was inspired by the clean, bold silhouettes of Danish Modern design, re-interpreted to make a contemporary yet timeless statement. By testing the curvature limits of rattan poles, McGuire has created a transitional collection with a harmonious balance of dramatic form and subtle proportion. The design vision combines a deep appreciation for materials and craftsmanship, a passion for European and Scandinavian design, with thoughtful, contemporary executions.
"The Danish Cord Series represents another first for McGuire. Glyn's incorporation of Danish cord detailing in his designs emphasizes the unique versatility of McGuire's rattan, infusing these forms with a fresh European sensibility," remarks Jason Phillips, President ? McGuire. "While mid-century Scandinavian design served as an inspiration, the forms themselves are both timeless and uniquely contemporary."
"I am strongly influenced by the 'before their time' work of designers from the early 1920's to late 1960's; especially French and Danish artists of this remarkable era. Danish Modern and Scandinavia as a whole strongly influenced a direction for the McGuire collection," says Machin. Additionally, the works and design philosophies of Wegner, Kj?rholm, Klint and Mogensen along with Arbus, Old, Ruhlmann, Frank and other talents of past years subtly imbue the forms, scale and minimalist detail.
In addition to being inspired by philosophies of artists past, the rugged coastlines and perfectly arched curves of ocean waves provided inspiration. "Watching the tide come in and out during balmy summer evenings gave birth to the Slipper Chair's wave-like arched back," says Machin. "The sea, perfectly curved pebbles and large rockery formations that make up Scandinavian archipelagos provided endless inspiration to almost every shape within this line."
Collection Highlights
Dramatic and bold, The Danish Cord Series includes a Loveseat; Wing Chair and Ottoman; Slipper Chair and Ottoman; Dining Chair and Barstool.
"Simplicity as an art form inspires me. That is why the pieces for McGuire seem so open and simple but in fact upon closer scrutiny the pieces are made from elaborate curves that ebb and flow, forming functional artistic shapes that are comfortable and inviting," Machin comments.
Perhaps the most dramatic of the 7 piece collection, the Wing Chair is a Danish interpretation of a classic Wing Chair, expertly crafted. Boasting stunning three dimensional curves it is spacious and comfortable with a visual depth achieved with the use of varying pole dimensions. It is a beautiful example of simplicity of form combined with detailed manufacturing practices. The woven cord inset deck is reminiscent of classic Danish Modern design; the down and feather upholstered cushions provide luxurious, contemporary comfort. Designed to complement the Wing Chair, the AO-90 ottoman is perfectly scaled for function and comfort. Whether used as a traditional ottoman or additional seating, the down and feather fill and upholstered cushion provide simple detail and luxury.
The Loveseat is generously proportioned and scaled. At more than 76" long and 37" deep, it provides ample seating but its clean rattan lines retain an overall light look. By incorporating different diameters of rattan pole within the frame creates visual complexity and interest. One long seat cushion provides continuity and structure, while down and feather back/arm cushions provide luxurious comfort. As with all of the pieces, the inset deck is wrapped in woven cord.
The Slipper Chair is generously proportioned and crafted for relaxation and style. The extreme curvature of the sculpted rattan poles results in a dramatic shape of clean lines. Danish-inspired woven cord inset deck and down and feather cushions mirror the rest of the collection. The Slipper Ottoman is a strong yet spare shape that complements the Slipper Chair in proportion and styling. Its clean lines and down and feather semi-attached cushion highlight the subtly of woven cord.
The Dining Chair is a unique articulation that incorporates McGuire's classic materials, Danish-inspired design and expert craftsmanship. The lines of this chair reinterpret a classic form; simplicity of material does not reduce the complexity of construction. Steamed rattan poles and minimal bracing result in gracious uninterrupted lines that provide maximum structural strength. The woven cord inset deck is inspired from classic Danish Modern design and is topped with a comfortable, semi-attached cushion.
The architectural purity of the Barstool lends it the flexibility to complement commercial and residential settings; simplicity is an artistic expression as rattan poles are expertly sculpted into curved lines with minimal bracing. It is available in both bar and counter heights and the foot rail can be customized in antique bronze, brushed nickel or brass.
The Lounge and Dining Seating pieces are shown in McGuire's own Headlands fabric: PHBL113 Basic Linen Weave in Sand Dollar.
All of the Lounge and Dining pieces are available in any of McGuire's 44 finishes.
About Glyn Peter Machin
Classically trained as a master cabinet/furniture maker in England, Machin continued his education in both England and Denmark and now resides in rural Kolding, Denmark. Housed in a classic triple floor 1930's Danish villa, his studio functions as both as his home and workplace. It is from this beautiful and relaxed setting that Glyn Peter Machin and his team design find inspiration for their multi-disciplinary design and product development initiatives.
His full service studio prides itself on the creative and technical ability to take a design or project from its initial first conceptual stage through final installation. The studio carries an educated background in furniture making as well as providing technical expertise and support in manufacturing. The studio functions on an international platform and is actively involved in projects and design commissions across 3 continents.
Availability The Danish Cord Series is available through McGuire's flagship showrooms in New York and San Francisco, through Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms and select independent showrooms nationwide and to consumers through Baker stores.
For more information on McGuire, visit www.mcguirefurniture.com or call 1(800) 662-4847.
The McGuire Furniture Company
McGuire Furniture Company, together with Ann Sacks, Kallista and Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc., which includes Baker furniture, Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms, and Baker Stores, comprises the Kohler Interiors Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kohler Co.
Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, 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 furnishings, as well as the development and operation of award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.