BOH caught up with designer and architect Barry Goralnick to discuss the inspiration behind his latest collection for Currey & Company, which features lighting and his debut line of furniture for the brand. 

What’s the inspiration behind the new collection?
The through line for my design projects is blended modern. I use forms or motifs that resonate with history, yet incorporate them in new and unexpected ways. Recently, I have mined forms from midcentury modern, while earlier collections were inspired by neoclassical design. 

For my first furniture collection for Currey & Company, I wanted to complement their offerings with pieces that convey glamour and sophistication, but are also comfortable. The Hollywood Regency period seemed like the ideal period to evoke. It is the nexus of both Art Deco and midcentury design, which is what my clients are most excited by right now. 

What was the starting point for this collection?
For this collection, I used a motif I have always loved: the Greek key. It not only taps into my classical education in architecture, but it’s a design element that resonates with people on a deep level. The challenge I gave myself was to use the Greek key in a linear and singular form, and to play with the scale of it. I reimagined forms for upholstery and case goods, then embellished them with these motifs.

What piece are you most excited to unveil?
If I have to choose one, I’ll choose the Zoe Club Chair. The Greek key climbs up the arm and along the back in a subtle way that adds a fresh element in the crowded field of club chairs. There’s a singular Greek key above the carved leg. The counterpoint of the linear chain of keys combined with these singular keys is what’s especially interesting. Plus, this chair is extremely comfortable. I think it will be a star of the collection. 

How do you feel this collection pushes the brand forward?
When developing a line, the goal of any designer is to create a timeless collection that will be beautiful and get attention, but most importantly that will sell and last for a long time—essentially, to become a classic. I think that this collection meets that criteria. It’s a sweet spot that pushes forward both my brand, as well as Currey & Company’s brand, while delivering what people want now: sophisticated glamour that they can live comfortably with every day.

How do you envision designers using this collection?
If you look at current interiors that are expressive and exciting, every home has accents from the past, even in the most modern spaces. Wood pieces are having a resurgence in every style. They add warmth and meaning to any space, and help ground it. My hope is that the pieces in this collection become the antiques of the future and serve that purpose for future generations.