Essential for some, better for all. “Accessibility” has become as buzzworthy a term as “sustainability,” with many brands attempting to capitalize on the moral arc that bends toward a more egalitarian design scene and consumer market in its slow march forward. But few are as nuanced in the practice as Michael Graves Design. Born from the late architect’s eponymous firm, it is arguably the most accessible design brand available offering thoughtful solutions to overcome cognitive, financial, physical, and emotional barriers. The studio now adds to that storied history with a fresh collection of home furnishings produced in partnership with digital-first, design-led retailer Pottery Barn. What’s more, the Michael Graves Design x Pottery Barn launch builds upon both parties’ commitment to subvert the often clunky or clinical aesthetic associated with accessible design objects for a more dignified existence.
The term “accessible” is used in reference to the characteristic that facilities, products, and services can be independently used by people with a variety of abilities. Making with that in mind means adhering to a process within which the needs of differently abled persons are specifically considered – not to be confused with the broader concept universal design.
In a showcase of three bedroom collections and two complementary armchairs, the entire range prioritizes functionality and safety without sacrificing style. Innovative enhancements are elegantly fused with design details to facilitate near-effortless living that most take for granted. Of particular note – and truer to the modernist approach that made Graves iconic – is their Cayman Collection comprising the bed with a built-in storage bench, nightstand, six-drawer dresser, and upholstered dresser seat crafted from solid mango wood in a warm finish. Each piece boasts simple geometry, a lovely interplay of solid-void, and clear edge articulation that will delight users when they discover the ways in which form follows function.
Seemingly inset surfaces create front grab rails and raised edges to prevent tabletop items from rolling off the dresser or the nightstand, which is also outfitted with an integrated power strip and drawer cutouts to conceal medical devices with flowing tubes and power cords out from inside the drawer. The sleep solution includes subtle armrests with pull and roll side grips for repositioning that not only aid in human balance, but also reconcile the visual weight of the headboard against the substantial built-in bench opposite it. Tubular inset feet on the bed frame reduce the risk of potential falls from tripping and the occasional stubbed toe. Equally as pragmatic is the dresser’s elevated base and raised bottom drawer to accommodate wheelchair clearance up to 9”. And large voids within the furniture provide open storage at an arm’s length when positioned adjacent to them or seated atop.
Cayman’s corresponding style addition is the Bradford Armchair, whose minimal, tubular legs, flat arms, and oversized cushions experiment with scale while adding touchpoints to the room. Moments of contrast are calls-to-action for mobility and balance when needed. The taller seat, adjustable foot heights, and rear hand rail also bolster support while navigating the chair.
Given the context, going mainstream is nothing to balk at. This and other collaborations with big brand retailers proliferates aspirational, nay exemplary, design increasing its potential to inspire a fresh crop of designers who will continue to democratize beauty and design. “Years ago, when reviewing student portfolios, everything was about sustainability. Today, we see a lot of focus on accessibility. We love it,” says Ben Wintner, CEO of Michael Graves Design. “This makes sense, because gaining empathy for the future users of your products is at the core of product design. The design community is ready for accessibility.”
To learn more about this and other collections available from the broader Michael Graves Design x Pottery Barn launch, visit potterybarn.com.
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