Michael S. Smith gets creative with Brunschwig & Fils

Gary Evans -- Furniture Today, July 20, 2012

NEW YORK — Well-known interior designer Michael S. Smith has been named creative director of high-end fabric house Brunschwig & Fils.

The company said Smith's exclusive consulting agreement will help guide its product development and reinforce the brand as one of the most prestigious in the industry.

Smith will work with Stephen Elrod, executive vice president and chief creative director for Brunschwig & Fils and its sister division Lee Jofa, and the rest of the Brunschwig & Fils team, the company said.

"Michael Smith's experience and advice will be invaluable to the product and merchandising teams," said Cary Kravet, president and CEO of Kravet Inc., which acquired Brunschwig & Fils in 2011. "I look forward to his fresh approach to this brand, which I am confident will help to present new collections that match the brand image and equity with the discerning palette of our customers. Michael will be an integral part of the Brunschwig & Fils team."

Kravet said Smith, known for his multi-layered take on traditional interiors, "has redefined American design for a new generation. His influence appears throughout the country, from his classic design for the Oval Office in the White House to the cover of Architectural Digest and many fine residences in between."