Mohawk inks license with Puerto Rican designer

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 3/15/2004 12:00:00 AM

SUGAR VALLEY, GA. —

In an attempt to tap the country's growing Hispanic customer base, Mohawk Home recently forged a licensing partnership with Puerto Rican designer Rosabel Paraliticci, with the initial line launching later this month during the New York Home Textiles Market.

The line will launch with coordinating decorative pillows and throws made of various constructions — lace, poly/silk and cottons — in 16 designs that fall into four color palettes.

"There is little design in the marketplace, particularly in home textiles, that truly captures the spirit and responds to the lifestyle of the growing Hispanic population," said Merle Johnson, vice-president of marketing, Mohawk Home.

Paraliticci was born in Spain and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

"I love to blend colors, textures, forms and patterns, and I never underestimate the materials that I use," Paraliticci said. "Part of the challenge for me as a designer is to find beauty in objects that may appear nondescript to others and to transform them into unique and interesting products."

She said she understands the Hispanic customer and has employed this knowledge in her collection for Mohawk Home.

"Hispanic women have the first and last word when it comes to home décor. We are colorful, expressive, warm and romantic, and we want our surroundings to reflect who we are," said Paraliticci.

"I know the Hispanic woman of today as a woman who is proud and fond of her traditions, yet embraces change — a woman with the knowledge and respect of her past culture and heritage, yet with the savvy of the new world order," she added.