In each issue, we ask Southwest Florida design pros to share standout global finds. This month, Estero-based architect Nathalie White of Schenkel Shultz presents a considered edit of high-design, intentionally manufactured goods grounded in sustainable design principles.
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nathalie white design picks trono oak sideboard table
Trono Oak Sideboard by Andrés Gutiérrez
Multidisciplinary Mexico City artist Andrés Gutiérrez carved the Trono Oak Sideboard for Vancouver-based brand Obakki, drawing inspiration from Mesoamerican folklore to inform his design. At the base, four rounded feet reference ancient depictions of the jaguar, a sacred animal that symbolizes power. Founded in 2005 by designer Treana Peake, Obakki is a maker-focused brand that works to celebrate and nurture artisanship, from elevating emerging talent to supplying basic needs like education and access to water. Over two decades, the brand has drilled and repaired more than 4,000 wells around the world. “There are so many levels to sustainability,” Nathalie says. “[Obakki] is dedicated to keeping craft alive.” obakki.com
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nathalie white design picks moncloud sofa patricia urquiola
Moncloud Sofa by Patricia Urquiola
Architect and longtime art director for Italian furniture company Cassina, Patricia Urquiola meets the moment with furnishings that blend minimalism, femininity and environmentally conscious design. Crafted from recycled polyester wrapped around a metal frame, the 10-foot, three-cushion Moncloud sofa balances its sturdy presence with rounded edges and a plush tufted backrest. “The name is totally accurate,” Nathalie says of the enveloping design. Removable fabric upholstery allows for easy cleaning; sustainable craftsmanship offers peace of mind. cassina.com
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nathalie white design picks meeting point blue run helena rohnen
Meeting Point Blue Rug by Helena Rohner
Color, geometry and textural contrast define jeweler Helena Rohner’s Weave Collection for Gan. Helena drew on historic artisan practices and the repeating patterns found in nature as inspirations for the collection: four rugs woven on a hand loom according to different mathematical principles. “I prefer rugs that aren’t shaggy, I think they can be too much,” Nathalie says. She favors the lower-pile Meeting Point rug, which provides soft, subtle texture with an alternating weave pattern and knot size. Known for their focus on artisanship and materiality, Gan employs weavers in India to produce each piece by hand using 100% wool. gan-rugs.com