BAKER NEWS

April 2008
BAKER UNVEILS NEW FORMS TO THE MILLING ROAD COLLECTION
Handcraftsmanship, Hand-Rubbed Finishes and Engaging Forms Broaden and Redefine Offering

CHICAGO (April 7, 2008) – Baker, premier designer and manufacturer of fine furnishings, introduced additions to its highly successful Milling Road Collection at the Spring 2008 International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C. Designed by Baker’s in-house design team, the new pieces including a leather topped writing desk, dining table, an upholstered and walnut panel bed, a hand-finished three panel screen, and an assortment of occasional and accent pieces. Inspired by 19th and 20th century European and American design, the pieces are impeccably rendered from North American cherry and walnut woods, expertly crafted by Baker.

In the spirit of Milling Road, a collection which has been part of the Baker repertoire of designs for almost 20 years running, the pieces are a modern interpretation of traditional form, reflecting functionality, versatility, and pared down sensibility. Decoration is kept to a minimum, the pieces drawing interest from subtle design elements executed through meticulous craftsmanship. Rich veneers, and sculptural architectural molding, including such Asian influences as bamboo references, detail but do not overwhelm with elaborate carving or decoration.

North American cherry and walnut solids are decorated with quarter and flat cut cherry and walnut veneers. Exclusive to the collection are three hand-rubbed wood finishes, Dark Walnut, White Walnut and Light Cherry that are joined with a lustrous hand-rubbed black lacquer, all employed to complement the woods’ fine figuring. Drawer interiors are lined with handmade Italian paper in a floral pattern of brilliant sienna on an antique white ground for a surprising pop of color. Cast brass hardware is hand-buffed in Old World technique to a satin patina bringing out its Dark Copper luster.

Speaking to Milling Road’s functional and versatile nature is the Upholstered Cocktail Ottoman. Crafted from walnut solids, the top is a firm cushion upholstered tight to the frame and detailed with a single welt. Four slightly rounded and tapered legs wrap around a lower shelf decorated in walnut veneers, The ottoman is offered in the collection’s signature Dark Walnut or White Walnut finishes.

A new Bench examples Baker craftsmanship and the attention to detail that can be found in The Milling Road Collection designs. Crafted from walnut solids, the Bench is scaled to fit easily within limited space or tuck at the end of a bed. The comfortable, yet sturdy cushion is upholstered tight to the wood frame above a rail decorated in a radius rout pattern and supported by four turned legs. The chest is offered in the collection’s signature Dark Walnut or White Walnut finishes.

Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc. includes Baker furniture, Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms, and Baker Stores. Along with McGuire Furniture Company, Ann Sacks tile, stone and plumbing company and Kallista plumbing, 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, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.