TRENDS

OPR House Invites You To BDNY – Booth # 876

Boutique Design New York, is an annual trade fair and conference that showcases the latest trends and innovations in the hospitality and design industry, which will take place on November 12th and 13th at the Jacob K. Javits Center NYC.

OPR House – Bespoke Luxury Furniture

The passion to create high-quality luxurious furniture, capable of providing emotional
experiences is the reason for our existence and continuous evolution.

Our meticulous attention to detail, quality control based on extensive experience, and careful planning, provide us the ability to deliver luxury bespoke furniture for projects all around the world with the utmost efficiency and refinement.

OPR HOUSE has been in the furniture industry for over 40 years, with a more recent focus on designing and crafting exclusive pieces of luxury furniture and upholstery.

Building a legacy through Exclusive furniture manufacturing by carefully selecting and working with noble and sustainable materials.

Find out more about OPR House and what’s new in the world of opulent furniture design at Boutique Design New York. We look forward to welcoming you to our booth # 876 for an unforgettable experience at BDNY 2023!

JOIN US AND DISCOVER A NEW RANGE OF FURNITURE – BOOTH # 876

In today’s world, sustainability has become the cornerstone of responsible consumption. This transformation is particularly evident in the luxury furniture industry, where opulence now coexists with eco-consciousness.

As consumers are increasingly prioritizing environmental values, manufacturers are responding with innovative approaches that are not only beautiful and luxurious, but also ethical and environmentally responsible.

In this blog post, we’ll take a dive into the world of sustainable luxury furniture and explore how it’s changing the industry.

The Evolution of Sustainability in Luxury Furniture

Sustainability in the luxury furniture industry is not just a passing trend; it’s a fundamental shift driven by a growing awareness of environmental issues. Consumers are no longer satisfied with merely beautiful and luxurious furniture; they seek products that align with their ethical values. As a result, manufacturers are redefining their practices to meet these demands.

A key aspect of this transformation is the emphasis on local sourcing and production. By minimizing transportation emissions through local supply chains, manufacturers are reducing their carbon footprint. But sustainability goes beyond logistics; it extends to the very core of the furniture-making process.

Materials Matter: Brass in Luxury Furniture

An excellent example of sustainability in luxury furniture is the use of reclaimed brass. This approach drastically reduces the need for new raw materials to be mined and extracted, lessening the negative environmental impact.

Manufacturers have recognized the importance of responsible sourcing when it comes to fresh brass, ensuring they collaborate with vendors who adhere to ethical and environmental standards.

Furthermore, brass’s reputation for durability aligns perfectly with the sustainability ethos. Long-lasting furniture reduces the need for replacements, ultimately reducing waste. To further minimize waste, furniture makers should consider recycling the scrap brass produced during the manufacturing process.

Veneer: A Sustainable Solution

Veneer, a popular choice in high-end furniture, can also be produced sustainably. Thin layers of wood from sustainably managed forests or those with FSC certification (Forest Stewardship Council) help preserve forests and biodiversity. Some manufacturers even opt for reclaimed wood from old buildings or furniture pieces, further reducing the demand for new timber.

Choosing veneer responsibly also involves using low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) adhesives and finishes, which not only lower hazardous emissions but also improve indoor air quality. As previously mentioned, certifications such as the FSC are essential, as they attest to responsible forestry practices.

In addition, there are alternatives to wood veneer, such as bamboo veneer, which is known for its rapid growth and renewability.

Other factors to consider are the durability and recyclability of the material. Concerning durability, the quality of the craftsmanship in the application of the veneer and the design of the furniture can significantly extend the product’s lifespan. Regarding the recyclable potential, veneer can be reused or added to new products as the furniture nears the end of its useful life, despite the fact that it is not easily recyclable due to its thin nature.

The Intersection of Sustainability and Luxury

In the quest for sustainable luxury furniture, it’s vital to combine eco-friendly manufacturing techniques with ethically sourced materials like brass and veneer. This holistic approach not only reduces the environmental impact but also promotes ethical business practices within the luxury furniture sector.

To truly make a difference, both manufacturers and consumers must prioritize sustainability in their choices. By doing so, we can ensure that the journey from opulence to eco-consciousness in luxury furniture is not just a trend but a lasting transformation that benefits both our homes and the planet.

Gold leafing, also known as gilding, has long been associated with opulence and luxury. This timeless technique involves applying thin sheets of genuine or imitation gold to furniture, creating an ornate and lavish appearance that immediately catches the eye.

In this blog, we will take you through the meticulous process of applying gold leaf on luxury furniture, revealing the craftsmanship and precision required to achieve the desired results.

Steps of Gold Leafing Process:

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Before diving into the gold leafing process, it’s essential to prepare the furniture’s surface thoroughly. A clean, smooth, and dust-free surface is crucial for ensuring the gold leaf adheres perfectly. Depending on the condition of the furniture, sanding and priming may be necessary to create an even base for the gold leaf.

Step 2: Apply the Adhesive

The magic of gold leafing begins with the application of adhesives, commonly known as gold size or gilding size. These adhesives come in liquid or gel forms and play a pivotal role in bonding the gold leaf to the furniture surface.

Step 3: Delicate Application of Gold Leaf

Handling the delicate gold leaf requires utmost care and finesse. With the adhesive in place, the thin gold leaf sheets are gently applied to the surface. Special brushes or tools are used to prevent tearing or crumbling of the delicate leaf.

Step 4: Press and Burnish

To ensure a secure and flawless bond, the applied gold leaf is lightly pressed down and burnished using smooth tools or cloths. This step eliminates air bubbles and imperfections, leaving behind a dazzling surface that radiates luxury.

Step 5: Sealing and Protect

To preserve the brilliance of the gold leaf and protect it from tarnishing, a clear coat of varnish or sealer is applied over the gilded surface. This additional step not only enhances the shine but also contributes to the longevity of the gold leaf finish.

Step 6: Age and Patinate (optional)

For those seeking an antique or weathered appearance, optional aging and patination processes can be employed. These techniques add character and depth to the gold leaf, enhancing the overall allure of the furniture.

What else you need to know about the gold leaf application on furniture

It’s important to note that gold leafing is a skillful and labor-intensive craft that demands expertise and precision. As a result, furniture adorned with real gold leaf is of the highest quality and often comes with a higher price tag, reflecting both the cost of the gold material itself and the craftsmanship involved.

Gold leafing isn’t limited to specific types of furniture; it can be applied to various types of furniture, including picture frames, mirrors, cabinets, tables and more. Regardless of the piece, gold leafing adds a touch of elegance and opulence, transforming the furniture into a luxurious statement piece that instantly elevates any interior setting.

In conclusion, the art of gold leafing elevates furniture to a level of luxury that has stood the test of time. Each step of the intricate process contributes to the creation of a masterpiece that exudes opulence and sophistication. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of extravagance and timeless beauty to your living space, consider embracing the art of gold leafing on your treasured furniture pieces.

For extra inspiration, check out two unique pieces from OPR Luxury House that used the gold leaf process.