Inspired Interiors: Restoration Hardware launches modern collection

Restoration Hardware is known for its scrubbed wood Euro look, neutral palette and young vibe. It’s a style with Belgian roots defined by natural upholstery and exposed nail trim spiced by glints of aerospace aluminum.

That may be about to change.

The new RH Modern collection is debuting this month nationwide, including the gallery at The Fashion Mall at Keystone, where the front third of the store has been redesigned as modern. RH Modern was launched a year ago in a handful of galleries. The collection sold so well, RH decided to roll it out nationwide.

Perhaps a couple of definitions will help. People use the term contemporary to connote very contemporary as in avant-garde Italian design. Modern, on the other hand, usually has mid-century references and RH Modern falls in this category.

RH Modern is more of a minimalist aesthetic than the classic Restoration Hardware style. Look for brass, bronze, stone, aged mirror and faux shagreen. Rather than being rustic or European in influence like Classic Restoration Hardware, RH Modern is more luxe.

Among designs debuting are the live-edge Wythe Rectangular Dining Table, the Aquitaine Round Chandelier, the Smythson Shagreen Bedroom Collection and the Italia Chesterfield Sofa, which is a contemporary take on a classic silhouette. This is a large collection that spans furniture, accessories and lighting.

Colors tend to be as minimal as the design: white, gray, black. Coffee tables and floor lamps are overscale and dramatic. Chandeliers are spiky with Sputnik influences. Texture is important; so are organic forms. This is a sophisticated, on-trend attitude defined by leather, lacquer and luxury.

Sally Falk Nancrede is an Indianapolis-based home-decor writer. Email her at hoosierhabitat@yahoo.com.