David Rockwell debuts new collection of fabrics and wallcoverings for Jim Thompson

American architect David Rockwell continues his collaboration with long-time partner, Jim Thompson, with the launch of the Dreams Collection at Maison&Objet in Paris this January.

The Dreams Collection comprises 12 patterns in a range of textures and materials, with multiple uses, from drapery to upholstery. Thompson’s artistry and skill allowed Rockwell and his team to experiment with various weaving techniques and surface treatments to achieve the textural variations and rich, vivid colours that create a modern textile collection.

Looking more closely at the Dreams Collection, it was apparently inspired by dreams and dreamscapes – the way that images and references in our subconscious can feel abstract, shadowy, and blurry around the edges, just out of a grasp of comprehension but still recognisable.

Inspired by his experience working on a myriad of projects, from hospitality and residential to theatre and culture, Rockwell has explored various motifs and patterns that exemplify his style in textile design. The collection also reflects his deep interest in light and his appreciation for natural materials and textures.

Each pattern in the Dreams Collection features a different exploration of abstracted natural imagery. There are no sharp edges – the designs have a misty, hazy, soft feel. Some of the patterns veer in colour and form towards a more mysterious, dramatic, and darker look, while others are light and ephemeral. The patterns reflect a range of textures and materials (silk, linen, cotton, etc.) and uses.

Also at Maison&Objet, Rockwell will reveal his first wall coverings as part of Jim Thompson’s Atmosphere Collection. He has created two new designs, Misty Forest and Raindrop Sisal. Coming in sky-inspired hues, these atmospheric wallcoverings are complementary as well as opposites.

Misty Forest is the most literal and referential of the two patterns, depicting a forest that is barely recognizable from a hazy fog. Printed on a finely textured sisal grasscloth background, the nature-inspired palette is soft and subtle.

Raindrop Sisal is more abstract and painterly, with its hint of clouds behind a scrim of raindrops and varying moments of translucency. The hues are enhanced with a silver metallic and sisal grasscloth ground, adding subtle lustre and glamour.

The Dreams collection of fabrics and wallcoverings will be showcased at the Jim Thompson Showroom, 2 Rue de Furstenberg, 75006 from 18 until 22 January. Open daily.