Drexel's grown-up Disney reflects Art Moderne styling
By Jeff Linville -- Furniture Today, May 22, 2006
High Point — Drexel Heritage said it scored a hit with a licensed adult furniture collection inspired by pieces owned by entertainment icon Walt Disney.
The high-end manufacturer showed 12 pieces based on furnishings in Disney's studio office and living spaces. The company said more pieces would be added to the group in coming markets.
Using an Art Moderne style, the Walt Disney Signature collection is sleek and contemporary, with sophisticated leather and case goods featuring black granite, brushed nickel accents and glossy primavera veneers over birch solids.
"Walt was a true visionary. His aesthetic and style are still relevant today, and provided us with tremendous inspiration," said Lenwood Rich, Drexel Heritage president and chief operating officer. "The collection will keep Walt's vision and innovation alive through great design and superb quality."
"Walt Disney Signature is shaping up as one of our most successful launches to date," said Monica Edwards, vice president of marketing. "In early meetings this week, the buyer response has been overwhelming, and we look forward to an equal success at retail."
The Disney pieces are expected to be on retail floors beginning late this fall.
"Although Walt Disney's contributions to Hollywood and family entertainment are legendary, few know about Walt's passion for design," said Pam Lifford, senior vice president of global home and infant for Disney Consumer Products, which licensed the Drexel line. "Artists like Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol held Walt in great esteem as a creative visionary and design innovator."
Disney's studio office, finished in 1940, was furnished in a modern style by designer K.E.M. Weber. Such signature pieces as a desk, credenza and bookcase are recreated in the Drexel collection, said Jeannine D'Addario, director of marketing for Disney Consumer Products.
Other pieces include a cocktail table, two end tables, a TV credenza, sofa and matching upholstered chairs and an ottoman.
Drexel Heritage designers were given access to the Disney archives, where the original furniture from Walt Disney's office still exists.
