October 2002
Milling Road Offers Vintage Furnishings With a European Flair

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Continuing the evolution of Milling Road from Baker, new pieces crafted in the style of European country antiques were introduced at the Fall 2002 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, NC. The result is a compilation of casual pine pieces inspired by the French designs of Europe and Canada and accent pieces in exotic rattan and wicker. The collection is comprised of pieces that are at once sculptural and sturdy, offering form without forgoing function.

The pine pieces, which include a harvest draw table and chairs, an entertainment cabinet, a bookcase and several new occasional pieces including a striking chest, are straight out of a French country estate and meticulously crafted to endure for generations. A new Waxed Pine finish on the light pine wood provides a clear low sheen and is meticulously rubbed by hand to bring out the wood's natural warm golden honey glow.

Also offered are Asian-inspired pieces, among them a Chippendale-style two-seat bench with an intricate latticework back. These pieces have been redefined using local materials of the Orient such as sturdy Malacca rattan, leather bindings, and luminous Chinese lacquering.

"These pieces allow Milling Road to speak to a broader audience than ever before," explained Joe McCambridge, manager - product design, Baker Knapp & Tubbs, and lead designer for the Milling Road. "The forms are meant to interest a consumer in relaxed living without sacrificing quality or character."

Among the most distinctive pine pieces is the entertainment cabinet, which is a celebration of its heritage in the mountainous Savoie region of France. There generations have crafted distinctive rustic furniture of this type influenced by the English, French and Italian styles of the 18th century. An overhanging cornice tops two bi-fold doors which are overlaid with diamond shaped panels and raised reeded moldings. It stands atop a decoratively shaped bracket base and has rat-tail door hinges.

A decorative Continental chest in cherry solids has its roots in 19th century Italian neoclassicism with its simple form and elaborate decoration. A rectangular overhanging top is veneered in mappa burl and rests on canted posts that are overlaid with flat ebonized pilasters. The two drawers are framed in warm cherry and veneered with gesso molded with lovely acanthus leaf detailing.

"These are pieces that are extremely easy to live with, but have a special defining flair," said Daniel R. Bradley, president - Baker Knapp & Tubbs. "They fit in very well with the relaxed, but refined lifestyle that is characteristic of Milling Road."

Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc. includes Baker Furniture, Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms and Baker Stores. Along with McGuire Furniture Company and Ann Sacks, it is part of the Kohler Interiors Group and a wholly owned subsidiary of Kohler Co., a global leader in kitchen and bath designs.

Kohler Co. was founded in 1873. Headquartered in Kohler, Wis., it is one of the oldest and largest privately held companies in the United States.