Palecek Brings Home Authentic South American Style To The High Point Show

Furniture World Magazine

Accessory and furniture buyers can expect a new twist on colonial décor from Palecek, the official accent furnishings licensee for The National Geographic Home Collection. Unlike popular Dutch and British blends, Palecek product conveys a warm elegance, evoking the charm of old-world Spain and indigenous craftsmanship. Inspired by South America's grand haciendas, flourishing markets, and native ruins, the characteristic look of the collection can be seen in Palecek furniture, accessories, and lighting. From turned wood and geometric weavings to artful basketry and uncommon blends of natural materials, Palecek's interpretation of the theme reflects a culturally authentic flair. Earlier this year Allan Palecek joined National Geographic's team of regional experts on a journey to South America, seeking out inspiration for his company's signature handcrafted accessories, furniture and lighting. The founder and president of Palecek gained a wealth of creative insights from the many culturally and historically significant sites they visited in cities, countrysides, and surrounding areas. "The beauty created by the region's diverse history, culture, and architecture made a huge impact on me," Palecek said. "The Andean microclimates with its fertile valleys, tropical rain forests and arid deserts leave a unique stamp on the raw materials used in the local wares. In Peru, the mix of European culture with Quechuan tribal styles lent a bold, refined texture to weaves. And in Venezuela, we saw a blend of traditional colonial and natural materials made to resemble old world Spain." From chairs and ottomans to vases and wall art, many accent pieces take their cues directly from regional settings. Palecek recreated a colorful writing box which caught his eye in the streets of Cuzco. A muslin pillow with bright green embroidery evokes a giant leaf he found in the Venezuelan rain forest. And an inlaid bowl with a striking pattern and a woven rattan rim exudes the graphic simplicity of the Incan style. "I think the collection speaks to what consumers are looking for today - a classic, casual elegance," said Palecek. "The tooled leather storage ottoman is one of my favorites; it's practical and stylish at the same time." The South American culture and heritage shine through the juxtaposed styles. "We've taken Spanish design elements like formal lines, large scale, and warm materials to offer a fresh take on traditionalism," said Palecek. Aside from beautifying environments, the product may fill a more elemental need in consumers. "We think consumers crave adventure without actually going on the adventure," said Palecek. "We believe homeowners will respond to the culturally authentic flair of our latest products, which are a unique byproduct of National Geographic's knowledge of world cultures and our expertise in designing accessories and accent furniture." About Palecek: Based in Richmond, California, Palecek offers furniture, accessories and lighting handcrafted from natural materials. Inspired by a network of artisans from around the world, Palecek's signature look and impeccably constructed pieces equally suit residential and contract environments. Retailers, designers, and corporate customers can choose from Palecek's award winning designs or customize them to suit their own needs. Founded in 1976 by its president, Allan H. Palecek, the company has permanent, to-the-trade-only showrooms in Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Seattle, Kansas City, and Denver, as well as a market-only showroom in High Point, N.C. www.palecek.com About National Geographic: In keeping with its century long mission to increase global understanding of our cultural diversity and promote conservation of our planet through exploration, research and education, The National Geographic Society launched the National Geographic Home Collection. The collection was inspired by the world travels of the Society's own explorer's and photographers from photos of their own home interiors. It reflects an eclectic mix of indigenous craft and handmade products which are aesthetically and literally, inspired by the world. National Geographic's net proceeds from the sale of all licensed products in the National Geographic Collection will go to the World Cultures fund, which helps support the work of archeologists, cultural anthropologists, and artists worldwide.