Sixth months ago we received an inquiry from a retail store design team asking if we could fabricate a jute rug that was bound in an alternating every-other-side method.  At the time it seemed like a somewhat peculiar request, but not being one to turn down a challenge and always looking to expand our custom capabilities we said we would figure out a way.

It took our expert craftsmen one day of experimenting to master the technique.  Hand-woven and backed in India, our Bora Bora jute rugs have a unique braided construction that allows us to exclusively apply this technique to them.  Bora Bora comes woven to just under 13’.  To achieve a smaller width for this look, our team carefully cuts in between two braided rows, allowing for ~4” sizing increments depending on the pattern.  This is all done by hand and is fairly labor intensive, as it requires craftsmen to crawl the length of the rug and delicately trim it so as to cleanly cut between two rows without damaging anything.

The next step is to apply the natural jute braid binding to two ends to give it a natural, finished look.  The most difficult part of this step is to make sure that the binding is lined up correctly.  Since our jute rugs are woven by hand they can be slightly uneven, so it’s important to pay close attention.

The final result has a gorgeous hand-finished look that is unique and stunning.  This finishing method has been increasing in popularity, and was recently spotted on the cover of October’s Elle Decor Magazine.

Interested in getting this look?  Send us an email >

Hello Blog-o-sphere, my name is Tara.  Perhaps I have worked with some of you, as I am a Sales Executive for Merida in the Southeast and New England Territories. For those of you that I don’t know, Hello! I am excited to announce that I am starting a blog series on Monday’s called ‘Innovation in Interiors’.  What better way to start your week, right?

I pledge to you loyal readers that I won’t be perfect, but I will provide interesting and hopefully thought provoking content with the goal of helping us all navigate this changing world of interiors… So with that being said, as High Point Market quickly approaches I thought I would take a look at the model of “THE TRADE SHOW”!

In just a few days, the Who’s who of interior design will be flocking to North Carolina for the trade show that touts itself as the ‘largest trade show in the furnishings industry.’  Over the past few years there have been questions around the trade show model as a vehicle for brands to connect to their customers. Many companies pulled out of trade shows since the cost seemed to outweigh the benefit.  What I find intriguing as a ‘trade show skeptic’ myself, is how High Point has maintained its integrity and continued to draw such loyal supporters from designers to manufacturers alike.

Let’s rewind a bit. I became a skeptic of the model from my experience recruiting college graduates in a past career.  The career fair model seemed bizarre to me.

Let me get this right, I am supposed to wait at this booth for someone to come to me??  Then, when a student arrives they look straight past me to the pretty presentation board, which lists all the reasons why they should work with us. Before you know it the next person is standing in line waiting for the same experience, and at the end of the fair you’ve talked to 100 or some odd kids but didn’t get anywhere.

Now, I map this over to the majority of trade shows. I see so many exhibitors and so many industry professionals having virtually the same experience.

At High Point, however, I think there is something different happening.  My hypothesis, which I will be testing at High Point, is that this trade show has successfully bridged the gap between vendor and clients to create a meaningful environment.  People don’t go year after year just to look at products – they go to brainstorm, collaborate and draw inspiration from other industry professionals.  A great example of this is seen in a story by Editor-at-Large that details how High Point is connecting some of the leading design voices in the industry, including Tobi Fairley, Julieann Covino, Wanda Horton, Elaine Williamson, Heather Clawson, Meg Biram, Lisa Ferguson, and Jennifer Brouwer with Pinterest as Style Spotters! Ooh la la!  (If you don’t follow these ladies’ blogs and twitter accounts, you should!)

What is Pinterest you say?  Do you remember when you were little and used your corkboard to pin up everything that inspired you??

Well it’s like that, only 2011- Internet style.  Pin and collect all things inspiring and beautiful AND SHARE! Can you think of a better way to connect these talented ladies and share the unique things that inspire each of them? I say… pretty smart. Kudos to all involved!

This is one of the reasons why I will attend High Point this year.  I want to see if my hypothesis is correct. So if you see me … say hello!

Let’s chat and change the world.

Members of the Merida team are attending this year’s High Point Market and will be meeting, tweeting and blogging on Monday and Tuesday! If you’re going to be there, swing by the Barclay Butera Showroom in Market Square (suite #330) to see our gorgeous hand-woven stripes and popular Dune pattern.  If you are interested or would like to connect, we are available.

Contact us at High Point Market
Tara McGeachey- 617-901-2983
tmcgeachey@meridameridian.com
@meridatara

Siobhan Kelley – 617-872-4254
skelley@meridameridian.com

Here at Merida we are constantly inspired by designers and enjoy being a part of the evolving world of design. For this list, we selected 10 New York City designers that we feel have made an impression on the design industry in a big way. Some have influenced the way people think about design by making it more accessible, others were selected because they are iconic and a source of inspiration for many, and others yet because of the way they challenge and inspire through their media presence. Many designers on this list have amplified their design philosophy through furniture and textile design. The designers all range in style and the list is not meant to be a “top 10” for visual aesthetic. Without further ado and in no particular order, we present Merida’s 10 Most Influential New York City Designers…

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FOLEY & COX

Website: http://www.foleyandcox.com/
Blog: http://foleyandcox.designshuffle.com/blog/
Twitter: @foleyandcox

About: Foley & Cox have had a strong presence in the design world since their founding in 2002. Specializing in high-end residential spaces, private aircraft interiors and yacht design, Foley & Cox is known for their ability to incorporate their client’s personal taste and style into their projects from the ground up. They have a sophisticated look that is elegant and modern with traditional elements. They do a stunning job of incorporating aspects of a home’s environment and brining it indoors to give a space context. Foley & Cox was named one of New York Spaces Magazine’s top 50 interior designers this year.

Take a Peek: We can’t get enough of their Mountain Home design. It is the embodiment of cozy elegance. Take a look at their portfolio to see the project.

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KEMBLE INTERIORS

Website: http://kembleinteriors.com
Blog: http://kembleinteriors.com/list/our-minds

About: Founded in 1982 in Palm Beach, FL, by Mimi McMakin, Kemble Interiors opened a NYC branch in the late 90’s under daughter Celerie Kemble’s leadership. Known for incorporating an unexpected element of surprise into each of their projects, Kemble Interiors breathes livable personality into the spaces that they design. Each room is unique and pulls together unexpected pieces in a way that makes them seem to inherently work together. Celerie Kemble was named one of the Top 5 Most Influential Women in Design by Elle Décor Magazine.

Kemble shares her design expertise through her book, “To Your Taste,” and is set to publish a second book, “Black and White,” this year.

Take a Peek: We love how Kemble plays off of the environment – utilizing slightly toned down splashes of color in New York projects and playing off the bright Floridian colors in southern projects.  Check it out in her portfolio

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RICHARD MISHAAN

Website: http://www.richardmishaan.com/
Twitter: @richardmishaan

About: Colombia-born Richard Mishaan has a way of making a space elegant and unique while remaining true to the individual styles of his clients. As he says, “the best interiors are layered and rich….I adore creating synergy between collected pieces whose common thread is tonality, a texture, or simply the excitement they evoke in the client who chose them…”. He often incorporates striking contemporary art into his fresh, clean designs. Mishaan was selected to be part of this year’s Elle Décor A-list.

Take a Peek: See how Mishaan utilizes oversized, bold artwork to make a statement in this Floridian penthouse.  Take a look at the project.

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AMANDA NISBET

Website: http://amandanisbetdesign.com/flash.html
Twitter: @amandanisbet

About: Founded in 1998, Amanda Nisbet Design brings elegant, livable style to her interiors. Nisbet’s projected are chalk full of personality and have so much energy it almost seems as if her rooms are dancing. She has an eye for color and a way of making rooms feel elegant yet livable and fun.

Despite her success, Nisbet keeps her work close to her heart by maintaining a small firm and only taking on select projects at a time. She focuses on getting into the mind of her customer and creating a space that truly reflects them and the way they live. Nisbet has been sharing her work and inspiring people through the Twitter community.

Take a Peek: Flip through her portfolio and get inspired on how to incorporate bold colors into your home to add a little laid-back fun.  Check out her portfolio.

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BRAD FORD

Website: http://bradfordid.com/
Blog: http://www.designtherapy.com/
Twitter: @DesignTherapy

About: Brad Ford I.D. was established in 1998 with a focus on creating elegant yet understated residential spaces that radiate style, class and sophistication. Labeled one of “10 New Designers to Watch” by New York Spaces Magazine, Ford has a minimalist approach that focuses on clean lines. Each individual object that he selects seems unique in and of itself. He tends towards chairs and couches with interesting shapes and lines, one-of-a-kind light fixtures, and bold artwork. Ford keeps spaces clean and simple, allowing you to fully appreciate the intricacies that make each piece special.

In addition to his eye for creating wonderful spaces, Ford is making waves in the design community with his influential presence in the world of social media. Ford’s blog, Design Therapy, provides a unique perspective on design, while his inspiring tweets reach more than 22,000 followers.

Take a Peek: We love the unique light fixtures and bold art that Ford paired in this project.  Take a look at the project.

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BETTY WASSERMAN

Website: http://www.bettywasserman.com/

About: Betty Wasserman founded her interior design business in 1996 after 10 years experience in the private art sector. Wasserman brings her passion for art into her design aesthetic – allowing a stunning piece to set the tone for a room. She focuses on clean lines and is known for her skillful ability to design a room in a modern, minimalist style that has warmth and character.

Wasserman brings color and excitement to her designs through her deep understanding of and appreciation for artwork. She has brought attention to and provoked inspiration on how to creatively utilize art within a space as a whole.

Take a Peek: We love what Wasserman has done with this Bridgehampton residence. From the architecture and clean lines to the eye-catching artwork and open concept walls, this house is perfection. Check out the Bridgehampton House.

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BUNNY WILLIAMS

Website: http://www.bunnywilliams.com/
Blog: http://buzz.bunnywilliams.com/
Twitter: @bunnywilliams

About: Bunny Williams has been a driving force in the NYC design world for years. After 22 years of gaining experience with Parish-Hadley Associates, Williams opened her own business in 1988. Williams takes on a classic, refined approach that emanates elegant style and incorporates unexpected patterns and colors in a seamless way.

Williams is so well versed and deep in her knowledge of design that others often look to her for guidance and inspiration. As the New York Times said, “Bunny Williams [is] a reigning star among New York society decorators.” She has a knack for including books in her spaces — and boasts four published works to her name, including one that shares her knowledge and love of outdoor design.

Williams also has her own full product line – Beeline Home – that has everything from accessories and wall decorations to chairs and lighting.

Take a Peek: Bunny showcases her own apartment in her portfolio – we love the glamorous canopy bed and are tempted to curl up with a good book in front of the roaring fireplace. Check out the project.

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TOM SCHEERER

Website: http://tomscheerer.com/

About: Tom Scheerer pairs his interior design skills with his appreciation for and deep knowledge of architectural structures. His understanding of the process from the beginning up results in well-designed spaces that are open, airy and seem to work naturally in terms of spatial relationships. Scheerer has a clean, modern design style that he accurately refers to as “relaxed modernism”.

Scheerer has been able to apply his style in different ways to execute stunning Manhattan apartments, laid-back country cottages and luxurious beach homes. He is well known for transforming many Bahamas residences and most recently the renowned Lyford Cay Club in Nassau.

Take a Peek: We love how Scheerer’s light and clean design tactics transform a Manhattan Studio. Check out the before & after shots. We also love the breath-taking floor-to-ceiling windows in the aspen residence – take a look.

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THOM FILICIA

Website: http://www.thomfilicia.com/home
Twitter: @ThomFilicia

About: If you think you recognize Thom Filicia, you probably do. The host of Style Network’s Tacky House and Dress My Nest, Thom has also appeared on major network shows including Oprah, Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres and The View. He has shared his design knowledge and educated millions through his role as interior design expert on the hit show Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.

In looking through his portfolio it’s no secret why Filicia is such a hot commodity. He has a talent for marrying unique patterns and textures in an evoking way. Filicia has a modern style that is sophisticated. He effectively uses splashes of vibrant colors to break up neutral palettes and draw your eye throughout the room. He often incorporates interesting visual objects and sculptures into his work.

Take a Peek: Filicia’s “Soho Mews” residential project captures how he adds excitement to his spaces with vibrant splashes of color and interesting sculptural objects. See the project.

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JOHN LOECKE INC.

Website: http://www.jloeckeinc.com/
Blog: http://demystifyingdesign.com/
Twitter: @JohnLoecke and @JOliverNixon

About: John Loecke Inc boasts a beautiful and diverse design portfolio. They have the rare ability to translate their design skills to dramatically different settings and styles. One thing that they consistently carry throughout all of their projects is their ability to utilize color. Whether it be a deep blue floral print in a classic interior or a pink chandelier in a sophisticated cityscape, they are able to integrate color to bring a space to life and give a room personality.

John Loecke and his partner Jason Oliver Nixon have been spreading their passion for design through their popular blog, Demystifying Design, and via Nixon’s column for Delta’s Sky Magazine.

Take a Peek: We love how John Loecke was able to pair greens, blues, pinks and yellows with unique patterns for a fun look in their residential project “Crazy for Color!”. Check it out in their portfolio

Fulfilled by Merida’s experience volunteering at the Greater Boston Food Bank last year, Merida’s Customer Solutions team was inspired to bring employees together for another opportunity to give back. Having discussed how autism has personally touched many of their lives, it didn’t take long to agree on the worthy cause to support – Autism Speaks.

Autism Speaks is dedicated to funding research into the causes of, prevention of, treatment and cure for autism. A major initiative for the organization is teaching people to be more aware of and recognize the early signs of autism. In addition to educating the public, Autism Speaks has raised multi-millions of dollars to go towards researching autism so we can better understand it as a whole. Their mission is to pave a better future for those who struggle with autism spectrum disorders and they are making great strides to get there every year.

To support Autism Speaks, Merida’s Customer Solutions team formed “Team Merida,” a group of Merida employees that are energized and excited to participate in this year’s walk. The walk consists of a 1-mile loop around the track at the Suffolk Downs in East Boston on Sunday morning, October 2nd.  Merida employees that have walked in past years say you can expect to feel the positive energy in the air and have a great time enjoying the many games and activities on hand.

In addition, Merida is donating 2% of all sales generated from 9:00 am on Monday, September 26th, to 5:00 pm on Friday, September 30th to Autism Speaks.

LEARN MORE ABOUT AUTISM SPEAKS >
JOIN OUR TEAM OR DONATE TO AUTISM SPEAKS THROUGH TEAM MERIDA >
HELP SUPPORT THE CAUSE – PURCHASE YOUR RUG THIS WEEK >

Below we are proud to share three personal stories about Merida employees who have been touched by someone with autism in a very special way.

JOHANNE THOMAS & JEREMIAH THOMAS

Their Story: A leader on Merida’s Customer Solutions team for more than 5 years, Johanne Thomas has intimately learned about autism through her autistic son, Jeremiah. After missing many of his developmental milestones, Johanne and her husband learned about Jeremiah’s condition after Jeramiah, then 2 ½, was referred to a child psychologist through his pediatrician. At the time Johanne did not know what autism was, but she and her husband openly embraced the diagnosis. They have been able to take advantage of the many resources available to educate them on autism and to help support Jeremiah, and have been by his side helping him grow and develop ever since.

Johanne’s Words of Wisdom: “ Having an autism diagnosis does not mean that it’s the end. There is always hope — never give up.”

NATALIE KAISER & ANTHONY

Their Story: One of Merida’s super-star Account Managers, Natalie Kaiser has been fortunate enough to watch her autistic nephew, Anthony, develop into the warm, loving teenager that he is today. Diagnosed at age 2, Anthony has a very mild form of autism called pervasive development. Since the age of 3 Anthony has been fortunate enough to have an aid, Melody, to help him navigate the difficulties of being autistic. Natalie has witnessed first hand what a positive and influential effect Melody has had on Anthony’s life.

Natalie’s Words of Wisdom: “Autistic people are just like you and me, they just have another way of interacting with the world. They are just as smart – they understand everything – they just have their own unique way of expressing themselves.”

MICHAEL MCGREAL & BRENDAN

Their Story: Michael has been fortunate to watch his nephew, Brendan, grow from a childhood into a healthy and productive 38-year-old man. When Brendan was growing-up in the 70’s people did not have nearly as much knowledge about autism as they do today. Through dedication and research, Brendan’s Mom was able to discover that he was autistic and found resources to support him. Brendan has been able to take advantage of a number of the resources at hand to help people with autism (including a life-skills class and an internship opportunity), and has now held down the same full-time job for 12 years.

Michael’s Words of Wisdom: “A person can be autistic and function on a day-to-day basis. If given then opportunity, they can hold a job and be self-sufficient. There are so many resources readily available to help – take advantage of them.”

We want to extend a big “thank you” to Johanne, Natalie and Michael for sharing their stories and how autism has changed their lives. We invite you to share your story with us and together we can make a change.