April 2005
FABRICS IN STYLISH NEUTRALS GIVE MILLING ROAD UPHOLSTERY A MODERN FLAIR

CHICAGO (April 14, 2005) - Calming colors, luxurious woven textiles and chic prints with a retro twist were the order of the day when Milling Road unveiled nearly fifty new fabrics for upholstery at the Spring 2005 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C. These fabrics, including four new options in leather and suede, offered a crisp contrast to the bold colors of previous seasons. As fresh and clean as an ocean breeze, these textiles maintain an elegance that is in keeping with the refined silhouettes seen in Milling Road's furnishings this Market.

The three colorways offered encapsulate the resort feel and soothing sophistication that define the overall collection:

Twig - A tasteful mix of chocolate brown, soft taupe and earthy green

Pumice - Calming neutrals ranging from crisp off-white to nutty beige with elements of coral running throughout

Raffia - A collection of creamy khaki and tan

"In keeping with the more modern look of Milling Road's furnishings this Market, the fabrics are clean and contemporary with a bit of a flair," said Dennis Anderson, independent showroom and store merchandiser, and color consultant for Milling Road. "These are neutrals with a lot of character. The fabrics are elegant and classic, but they maintain a sense of fun and personality."

Included in the woven fabrics this Market is a chic brown and tan spotted animal skin design; a heavy geometric with an African feel; and a classic ticking stripe made modern with fat lines and fun colors like coral and chestnut. Also included are three new soft velvet and chenille weaves in brown, creamy white, and stone, as well as a striking coral branch weave in three colorways. In addition, there is an embroidered vine motif that is curling and playful without being overwrought.

The prints this season consist of a rich coffee brown with modish cream starbursts; a lively fruit print with an Arts and Crafts feel in its outlined designs and soft colors of melon and putty; and a large-scale plaid in caramel and beige. Also included is a faux Ikat fabric: a stylized paisley print designed to look like Asian fabrics that are hand-dyed to give the patterns a soft shirred appearance. Finally, a velvety suede offered in a rich, flame coral and a deep taupe, as well as two new leathers - a soft, buttery café au lait and a tan with a distressed, antique finish - round out the collection.

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

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America's oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, home interiors, and hospitality services.