Design Within Reach Unveils ‘Semita’ Rug Collection by Little Wing Lee
Design Within Reach has launched an exciting new rug collection, ‘Semita,’ developed in partnership with the acclaimed designer Little Wing Lee from Studio & Projects. This collection redefines rugs not merely as floor coverings but as central, tactile design elements within a living space.
Design Within Reach Unveils ‘Semita’ Rugs: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
In a significant collaboration, furniture and décor retailer Design Within Reach (DWR) has introduced its latest offering, the ‘Semita’ rug collection, crafted by designer Little Wing Lee of Studio & Projects. Unveiled to the public, these distinctive rugs are meticulously handmade in India, utilizing premium New Zealand wool, embodying a blend of global craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Lee, recognized in Wallpaper* US400, views rugs as foundational components of interior design, asserting their importance often surpasses that of fine art. She highlights that a rug's unique tactile quality, offering a softening presence, distinguishes it from other decorative items. Lee notes, “A rug anchors a space, setting the stage for other elements like furniture, lighting, plants, and art. Its unique feature lies in its tactile nature, inviting physical interaction. A beautifully designed rug can either grace a floor or adorn a wall, enriching the environment with color, texture, and intricate patterns.”
The inspiration for the ‘Semita’ collection draws deeply from traditional kilims, the flat-woven textiles historically produced in regions such as Turkey and North Africa. Additionally, Lee integrated personal memories of a striped rug from her childhood home. This confluence of influences culminates in a striking spiral motif, reminiscent of constructivist painting and fragmented geometric forms. The name ‘Semita,’ derived from Latin, translates to ‘footpath’ or ‘narrow way,’ reflecting the maze-like quality of the designs, whose scattered lines and angles invite visual and tactile exploration.
Lee elaborated on her creative process: “My approach to rug design begins with pattern and color. Subsequent stages involve considering construction techniques and material selections. Manipulating pile height and observing how fibers capture and reflect light are essential tools I employ to refine and enhance the design elements. A successful rug achieves a harmonious balance of all these components.” The collection showcases Lee's skill in blending bold graphic elements with fluid organic shapes, all while expertly manipulating light and texture. This collaboration underscores DWR’s commitment to offering artistic and functional pieces that celebrate meticulous craftsmanship.
The introduction of the ‘Semita’ rug collection by Design Within Reach and Little Wing Lee offers a compelling perspective on the role of textiles in interior design. It challenges us to reconsider how we perceive and interact with our living spaces, moving beyond purely aesthetic considerations to embrace tactile and emotional connections. This collection serves as a powerful reminder that design, at its best, marries beauty with utility, transforming everyday objects into works of art that enrich our daily lives. It's a testament to the idea that even the most functional items can possess profound artistic merit and create a sense of grounding and identity within a home.