Metropolitan Home’s new collection showcases modern lifestyle
After a quarter-century of championing contemporary design and serving as a showcase for the modern lifestyle, Metropolitan Home magazine has enlisted the expertise of internationally renowned designer Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz to develop the Metropolitan Home Collection.
Manufactured by Shermag, a leader in fine contemporary furnishings, the collection was created into distinct, eclectic lifestyle groupings rather than traditional suites of furniture so that consumers can blend pieces together tailored to their environments and lifestyles. The collection, which was introduced to the home-furnishings industry last fall, incorporates pristine hardwoods, exotic veneers, glass, metals and myriad fabrics and leathers.
It focuses on three trends inspired by weekend getaway homes with the feel of coastal or warmer clients, urban loft living, and upscale homes with accent pieces done in rich finishes and exotic veneers that serve as focal points.
To re-create the relaxed and serene ambience of a weekend getaway, pieces feature a finish of soft ceruse-limed oak, cork tops and contrasts with dark-chocolate wood base treatments or clear acrylic bases.
The need to define different environments for sleeping, entertaining and home office within a large space is assisted with pieces such as a multifunctional bed wall with a distinctive chevron veneer.
Macassar ebony and zebrawood are combined with leathers to create rich, accent pieces for the third trend.
The collection includes more than 65 pieces and 100 fabric and leather choices. Available pieces include a high contemporary shelter-back sofa, shelter-back wing chair, slipcover sofas of various sizes, lounge chairs, case goods, occasional tables and beds.
Noriega-Ortiz is considered one of the finest contemporary designers, appearing on numerous "best" lists. He is known for his use of interesting silhouettes that interact with the space around them, creating a soft sensuality and graceful elegance.
"Interiors should be elevated into living works of art, environments in which the intrinsic human desire for comfort and beauty are naturally aligned," he said.
Noriega-Ortiz earned his first master's degree in architecture in 1982 at the University of Puerto Rico. He earned his second master's degree, in architecture and urban design, from Columbia University.
Through his company, he is involved in all aspects of design including architecture, custom furniture, lighting, accessories, textiles and even stationery.
His work has been featured in more than 100 publications worldwide and his client roster includes celebrities such as rocker Lenny Kravitz and author Laura Esquivel.
The Metropolitan Home Collection is set to debut in fine home-furnishing retailers this spring.
Information courtesy Metropolitan Home
