Some architectural products shape a space by providing structural support, views to the outside, or wayfinding within. Others are specified purely for show. These furnishings and surfaces combine aesthetics and purpose to ensure they’ll be conversation starters for years to come.
Girard Color Wheel Ottoman, Herman Miller Collection
Herman Miller is reviving the colorful ottomans of the late midcentury designer Alexander Girard, who was named director of design for the company’s textile business in 1952. Offered in bold solids and two vibrant stripe patterns, the piece is as much a footrest as it is a coffee table and a seat. The furniture maker is collaborating with Girard Studio on this collection of ottomans and forthcoming Girard re-introductions.

Human Touch, Bernhardt Textiles
Bernhardt partnered with Brooklyn, N.Y.–based designers Dani Song and Makoto Kishino to craft Human Touch, a collection of two upholstery designs inspired by silk painting and tea staining. Makoto, shown, replicates the patterns and saturations of tea-stained napkins achieved through its namesake's experimental design processes.

Contemporary, Fireclay Tile
San Jose, California–based Fireclay Tile recently acquired Kibak Tile in Sisters, Ore., adding a trio of collections, including Contemporary, to its stock of hand-crafted ceramic tiles. Each of the collection’s eight patterns (Palmera, shown) are screened and glazed on the company’s 70% recycled clay tile bodies in neutral colorways. Offered in 8”-square and 6”-by-12” dimensions. For indoor use.

Nestle Chair, Stylex
New York–based designer Brad Ascalon crafted a versatile chair with an ergonomic bucket seat and five base options suitable for applications spanning conference rooms to cafeterias. The midcentury modern–inspired Nestle features a bio-based molded foam shell whose design is optimized to limit manufacturing waste. It is Greenguard-certified for Children and Schools and Indoor Air Quality. Shown with a sled frame base.

Fusion, Nendo for Bo Concept
Designed by Tokyo-based studio Nendo for furniture maker Bo Concept, Fusion is a 13-piece collection of furniture and housewares rooted in Dutch design but with patterns inspired by origami folds. Among the collection are plates, cushions, a sofa, shelving, and a rug (shown) that apply variations in color and scale to the folded patterns.

Analog Table, Republic of Fritz Hansen
Analog’s oval top makes the piece suitable for use as a desk, a dining table, or other work surface. By Spanish designer Jaime Hayon for the Republic of Fritz Hansen, the 28.3”-tall, 41.3”-wide table is offered in lengths of 72.8” and 96.5”. Its top comes in white laminate and oak and walnut veneers, and its four-legged base is made of solid oak and walnut.
