Velvet reloaded

We declare an end to the dark Middle Ages! In their place, we herald in a return to the ideals of Antiquity, and focus on the light, the beautiful things in life - this is what the Renaissance stands for (French for rebirth), which began to dominate Europe from the 14th century onwards. It's no coincidence that this is the very epoch in which velvet was invented. It is an elegant, shiny material which catches the eye, which begs to be touched and which magically creates a pleasant sensation on the skin every time it is touched.

The major cities of northern Italy became the centre of European velvet production. It was thanks to the Industrial Revolution that this elegant material, which back then was exclusively fashioned from silk, finally became accessible to a wider public. Today, high-quality velvet is mainly made of cotton. Manufacturers of high-quality furniture such as Rolf Benz appreciate this renewable raw material both for its sustainability and for its naturalness. The company uses only the very finest-quality cotton from Italy, the birthplace of velvet.

In times gone by, pomp was the thing. Costly velvet was an expression of aristocratic superiority, and the exclusive preserve of the clergy and nobility. Understatement? No way! Whether it was clothes or interiors - it had to be velvet. And lots of it. There were then also times when velvet was 'out'. Too ostentatious, too pretentious. This prejudice was also levelled at this fine material in recent decades. But now velvet is reclaiming its place in our living rooms - with a new look, yet still luxurious and sensual. A style offensive on velvet paws, accompanied by clear and straightforward design.

SHOWING YOUR COLOURS

Velvet radiates a special aura - it is unique. And it expresses something about its owner: that they have taste and appreciate the exceptional. This material is experiencing its come-back in a new look and with fresh nuances. Muted natural shades such as beige and brown look elegant. A more powerful dark red or orange give furniture something sensual. And green tones - especially in darker or muddier nuances - exude an invitingly casual vintage look. Numerous boutique hotels and international interior stylists currently swear by it. Our recommendation: simply choose your favourite colour! After all, it's only about one thing when it comes to your own home: the feel-good factor.

VELVET MEETS UNDERSTATEMENT

The fact that velvet can quickly become overbearing is particularly evident in Baroque furniture. What counts today is authenticity, and this is achieved through straightforward design and clear proportions. When this sensually luxurious cover material is combined with a few select materials such as wood or metal, it creates an elegant yet light material symbiosis. A typical characteristic of velvet covers is their iridescent surface, which creates a vibrant look. It's truly in the eye of the beholder: depending on the lighting, the colour looks either lighter or darker in its nuances.

Grand, ancient ideals combined with the possibilities of a new age – the velvet revolution is well underway. The North Italian weavers of the early modern age would have been thrilled.