ABOUT : textile design studio

Working in a temporary space can be chaotic. This is not the case in Brentano's transitional studio. Since relocating our corporate office in February 2008, Brentano's design team has been busy in a well lit and incredibly organized area. While they labor in this space, extensive new layout planning is underway for our new 2,000 square foot fabric design studio. Windows will line an entire wall, and coupled with the skylights, will allow an abundance of natural light. Iris envisions the windows opening into a tranquil Japanese garden, though she points out that first, there must be windows to open. Because we are building the new studio from scratch, the elements will be in keeping with Brentano's green mindfulness.

The studio, whether transitory or permanent, is a hub for creativity. For Design Director Iris Wang, Designer Aaron Mensik, Assistant Designer Erica Shamrock and Studio Assistant Lan Chenh, it is a meeting place for discussion and experimentation. The team pushes the boundaries of patterns, materials, weaves and color while maintaining usability. "We try things that are surprising and unexpected," explains Aaron. He also says it's in the studio that Iris most visibly lives up to her title of Director, singling out the strengths of original artwork and guiding its path. Additionally, sales associates offer critical input on geographical influence and designer trends. National Sales Representative Jeff Frank says it's his job to offer a different perspective and "bring back what the real people are saying."

Careful consideration is taken when choosing where to manufacture the fabrics, including travel to and thorough research of locations worldwide. It is important to Brentano to find the perfect mill to weave each pattern. Additionally, we are increasing business with a number of environmentally-minded mills. After the textiles are woven, they are stocked at Brentano's Headquarterss for purchase and distribution.