Kevin O'Brien taps Capel for his first area rug line

HTT Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 9/7/2010 2:47:48 PM

Troy, N.C. - Through a recent alliance with Capel Rugs, longtime fabric designer Kevin O'Brien is for the first time delving into the area rug category with a new collection slated for launch at the October High Point market.

O'Brien began his career as an architect and painter but has worked in the design business for more than 20 years. His Philadelphia-based studio is where he creates his designs, which are known for their natural themes and materials. His company started by creating decorative, hand-painted fabrics and then branched out into top-of-bed products, pillows, furniture, wall art and accessories.

The line from Capel will feature O'Brien's original designs, "faithfully rendered," Capel Rugs noted, by the company's team of artisans. Patterns include transitional and contemporary looks interpreted in wool and wool-viscose blend constructions.

"The contemporary collection has a hip, downtown vibe, while the transitional designs are more tranquil and serene," said Tami Watras, Capel Rugs' director of merchandising.

O'Brien described the new rugs are "bold and fun, yet grounded in structure." He added that they are aimed at consumers "who have fantastic taste and are looking for stylish yet affordable products."

Both Capel and O'Brien expect the partnership to expand each companies' distribution, adding new types of stores and customers to their current bases.

Other O'Brien home products are currently carried in stores such as Anthropologie, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, ABC Carpet & Home, Bloomingdales, Gumps and Barneys as well as a number of gift and lifestyle stores.
The new rug collections will be on display throughout October's High Point Market at Capel's showroom, located in Market Square, space 112.