An Entrepreneur’s Long-Lasting Love for Leather
We were lucky enough to chat to Graeme about his now year-old business Molleé and the importance of using only the finest leather.
While the ramifications of the pandemic are still being felt around the world, certain sectors flourished despite the last two years of on-off lockdowns.
Social media sensation Tik Tok was catapulted into the spotlight, Zoom Video Communications became a must-have and brands such as Urban Outfitters found sales of their homeware offerings surged.
With more time spent in our homes than ever before, the need to create cosy, safe spaces was of the utmost importance.
Homeware sales rose by 42 percent in 2020 according to the Office for National Statistics, and with flexible working now becoming the norm, interest in interior design is expected to continue to grow, with leather accessories weaving their way into our lounges, home offices and onto our dining tables.
“We have been forced to slow down and spend time in our homes—this drives a strong desire to really create a space that reflects both visually and affectionately what it is we are feeling,” Erick Garcia of LA-based design firm Maison Trouvaille tells Vogue.
“As of lately we are paying close attention to how design has the ability to create an energy.”
Leather furniture has gained a much bigger fanbase more recently. Not only is the material luxurious and durable, but it is easy to maintain, particularly if messy kids are around!
The trend for leather interiors has now gone beyond the sofa and has become a key design accent for homes all over the world.
“Leather in rich tones offsets cool metals and has the ability to tell a story over time as it wears through use—we shouldn’t be afraid of age showing its face,” says Erick Garcia.
Often available in earthy shades, the primitive appeal of leather homeware takes us back to nature and adds texture inside. Connected with feelings of endurance, protection and power, it’s no wonder leather has become a reliable material for interior designers.
It can be associated with a more masculine feel thanks to historic gentleman’s smoking rooms decked out with dark wood and leather panelling, but don’t be afraid to use the fabric with lighter colours and delicate prints.
From placemats to pen pots, here are some of the key leather homeware pieces we have our eye on.
The warm chestnut colour of this chair with equestrian style buckles should take pride of place in your living room.
This gold side table with leather magazine rack is compact enough to sit next to your sofa while looking super luxe.
Elevate your dining table with leather placemats that make the ideal backdrop for any tablescape.
This little piggy brings the countryside directly to your home. Add it to a mantelpiece so the porker can be the star.
It’s not just the look of leather that we love, but the smell it evokes. Bag this smoked leather candle for a rich aroma that will have you feeling relaxed in no time.
Made from recycled leather, this sustainable waste paper bin will ensure your trash is stored in the classiest way.
Display your favourite memories in this striking photo frame and be sure to smile every time you look at it.
Handy hooks so that you can get your home organised in a stylish way.
Bring the vibrant colours of Marrakesh to your living room with a bold pouffe cover.
Ensure your working-from-home desk is in perfect condition with a pen pot guaranteed to help with productivity – we hope!
By Joely Chilcott
We were lucky enough to chat to Graeme about his now year-old business Molleé and the importance of using only the finest leather.
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