French eclecticism meets American excess in Baker’s extensive new furniture collection by Jean-Louis Deniot.
June 12th, 2017
“It’s generous. It’s eclectic. It’s larger than life,” says French designer Jean-Louis Deniot of his new collection for American furniture company Baker. And he is right on all accounts. Unveiled in Chicago in April, Deniot’s collection for Baker spans an impressive 80 pieces in total, and some key pieces have just landed at the Proof Living showroom in Singapore.
Deniot enrolled in the architecture programme at École Camondo at Les Arts Décoratifs in Paris for two years before switching to interior architecture. He opened his own design practice in 2000 and has since amassed a portfolio that covers architecture, interior design and furniture design.
Drawing from his academic training, Deniot’s massive collection for Baker includes a little bit of everything (both in style and typology) that one could ever need to furnish one’s space. The collection comprises big ticket items like sofas, dining tables and beds, as well as upholstery, lighting and accessories that further broaden its versatility.
“I was influenced by vintage furnishings of the twentieth century and by the sense of presence in grand, aristocratic decors. But I still wanted my designs to have a relaxed side and a sexy elegance that make them feel timeless,” says Deniot of the collection.
Commented Brett Beadleson, Vice President of Baker International Sales at the intimate launch of the collection at Proof Living, ION Orchard: “The Jean Louis Deniot collection marks a new direction for Baker. It is more contemporary and pared down but still opulent and rich in details.”
The Agate Rectangular Table, for example, features a generous 110-inch-long tabletop with intricate marquetry and metal pedestals with a laser-cut pattern inspired by agate stone.
The Moonstone One Arm Corner Sofa provides massive comfort with its 99-inch length and creates a nook with its asymmetrical arm.
And one can recognise hints of the baroque in the gentle curves of the Carnelian and Jasper sofas.
The lighting pieces and mirrors are handcrafted by small, artisanal enterprises in Italy. Both organic and geometric, the Iolite Chandelier features five alabaster diffusers that create a striking contrast with their polished brass structure.
“I have a connection to and a story behind every single piece,” says Deniot.
In Singapore, Baker is available from Proof Living.
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