The designer’s penchant for gracious living
and understated elegance inspires her
new furniture line for Henredon
TEXT Katharine Kaye McMillan
PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy of Henredon Furniture Industries, High Point, NC


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Barbara Barry is sitting pretty in a sleek chair from her newly launched line for Henredon, appropriately called “Barbara Barry Realized by Henredon.”


“Look around,” she says, pointing to the vignettes of her pieces on display at Robb & Stucky Interiors, the exclusive distributor of her new line in Florida.

“It’s more than a collection — it’s a lifestyle, a way of living that speaks to everyone through fabrics, furnishings and lighting.”
And lifestyle, in the truest sense of the word, provides the foundation for Barry’s design philosophy — “Design is a stage for elegant living, for enjoying the rituals of daily life.” In keeping with this belief, her new collection focuses on people rather than objects.


“Great design is not about stuff,” Barry says. “Whether it’s high tea or cocktails, my design has always been about people.”


With their soft curves, pared-down lines and rich wood tones, Barry’s new 70-piece collection of furniture, upholstery, case goods and accessories epitomizes a “softer take on modern styling,” according to Kris Kolar, vice president of interior design for Robb & Stucky Interiors. The colors are pale; the textures subtle; and the patterns kept to a minimum.


Like everything she touches, Barry’s creations resonate with originality and grace. “As a designer, I’m concerned about the authenticity and integrity of the design process,” she says. “Every piece is designed by my own hand.” To signify her commitment, Barry brands each piece with her trademark bronze oval and signature X.


In addition to Henredon, Barry has created collections for Ann Sacks Tile & Stone, Kallista, Baccarat, Haviland Limoges, Boyd Lighting, Tufenkian Tibet Rugs, Baker Furniture and McGuire. Currently, she is developing a line of bone china for Wedgwood.


For more information on Barry’s latest collection, visit online at www.robbstucky.com or www.barbarabarryco.com. u

 
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above: Elegant and sculptural, the dark walnut “Facet Dining Table” features an octagonal base — one of Barbara Barry’s signature geometric touches.
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Barry’s new collection for Henredon includes ceramic accessories, such as the vases and centerpiece. Gentle ridging adds texture to the glazed-white pieces.
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above: Oval tracery, antique bronze hardware and jewelry-like hinges distinguish Barry’s walnut “Open Oval China Cabinet” for Henredon.
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Barry named the “Grace Lounge Chair” for its graceful lines and comfortable, inviting upholstery. The open oval aperture gives the chair room to breathe.