What happens when the world of fashion and furniture intersect? You get Cynthia Rowley. One of the world’s leading contemporary fashion designers. We’ve seen her push boundaries in fashion, and now she can add furniture designer to an impressive resume of groundbreaking achievements. Cynthia is innovative, approachable & a true style icon whose global style brands are sold worldwide. A creative genius whose dynamic vision has made a lasting impression on everything from clothing to wetsuits, and beyond. Cynthia has an energy that is infectious and after meeting her you are left with an indelible feeling that this is a woman who is truly conquering the world. From her eye-catching fashion collections to a new furniture collaboration with Hooker, she brings her interminable passion for adventure into the home furnishings market.
Recently, Cynthia Rowley debuted her 140 piece collection at October High Point Furniture Market. Divided into three stories each has its own attitude & style- Pretty, Sporty, & Curious. Not knowing how to make furniture she approached it the same way she did fashion or a collection and “Never has more than one inspiration but many different concepts.” Her goal was (and is) to remain true to the heritage of her brand while sparking the imagination. She has taken us to another realm of possibilities “creating furniture that will brighten a space and make your home a happy place.”
I met Cynthia during the High Point Design Bloggers Tour when she gave us a personal tour of her collection with Hooker Furniture. I was able to catch up with her several weeks later for this interview. On a side note: I asked what it would be like to be her intern. She offered me a chance to find out, as she may need one next summer working on her new surfboard line. So does that mean I would hang out a shingle next year “The Ace Goes to the Hamptons I’ll Be Back Soon.” Never say never. But until then I’ll be dreaming of the surf, a summer in the “City” & the consummate dream job.
So let me introduce you to Cynthia Rowley & her spirited collection with Hooker Furniture.
Photo/ Courtesy of Hooker Furniture
Vicki Gladle Bolick: What was the inspiration behind your collection?
Cynthia Rowley: “Just as fashion and style reach beyond clothes are about the art of living, so is furniture. I wanted to create pieces that will brighten your space and make your home a happy place! It was important to create a collection that was special and authentic to my work, but also give people the ability to interpret in their own way, and to infuse their own style and personality into their home.”
Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture
Vicki Gladle Bolick: What are some of your favorite pieces?
Cynthia Rowley: “The Alchemist Bar Cabinet. The Belle Semainier Chest (it has the days of the week in each drawer). The Swanson Upholstered Metal Side Chair.”
Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture
Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture
Vicki Gladle Bolick: If you had to describe your collection with Hooker Furniture in three words, what would they be?
Cynthia Rowley: “Curious,” “Sporty” and “Pretty.”
Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture
Vicki Gladle Bolick: What is your design philosophy and how does that translate into your personal style at home?
Cynthia Rowley: “I think of myself as sort of a tomboy — None of my homes get too girly, but there are always pops of color or prints used in interesting ways. I like to mix the unexpected. My style is also always changing, it’s never just one singular style. I don’t want to wear the same thing every day — and that’s my approach to home. Your interior design style should be personal and incorporate all facets of your personality. So one room might have one flavor and another room, a different flavor.”
“Just because you’re investing in a piece of furniture doesn’t mean you should play it safe or buy something neutral – it’s the opposite. You’ll have the piece for life — If you love it, you’ll find a place for it. Don’t worry about if it works. Sometimes the unexpected is what makes it a room exciting.”
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And yes, I couldn’t agree more…
Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture
Cynthia Rowley @ Hooker Furniture/High Point Design Bloggers Tour-Photo/ Vicki Gladle Bolick
Cynthia Rowley @ Hooker Furniture/High Point Design Bloggers Tour-Photo/ Vicki Gladle Bolick
Cynthia Rowley @ Hooker Furniture/High Point Design Bloggers Tour-Photo/ Vicki Gladle Bolick
Cynthia Rowley @ Hooker Furniture/High Point Design Bloggers Tour-Photo/ Vicki Gladle Bolick
If you need information about this exciting collection please visit hookerfurniture.com.
This post was not sponsored although we received compensation for attending the Design Bloggers Tour. As always all opinions are 100% my own.
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Until next time,
BE INSPIRED. BE AMAZED.
