From significant business changes to noteworthy product launches, there’s always something new happening in the world of design. In this biweekly roundup, AD PRO has everything you need to know.
In the News
A pivotal legal win for Jean Royère’s estate
In 2022, the Estate of Jean Royère and Jean Royère SAS, which honors and faithfully reproduces the 20th-century French talent’s furniture designs, filed a lawsuit against designer Denis de la Mésière and his atelier, Edition Modern, alleging that the studio had been manufacturing and selling unauthorized replicas of more than 50 original Royère designs. Recently the court ruled in favor of the Estate and Jean Royère SAS, validating claims of trademark and copyright infringement and unfair competition. The defendants have paid an undisclosed sum as compensation, ceased using the Royère name, and permanently terminated all sales of the illegitimate products. The victory protects the Royère oeuvre for generations to come—and underscores the importance of provenance and authenticity in the industry.
AD PRO Hears…
…that Dunes Point Capital has acquired a majority interest in trade furniture and textiles company Kravet Inc. for an undisclosed amount. The Kravet family, which is now in its fifth generation of leadership since the textile house’s founding in 1918, announced they will continue to lead the corporate operations and maintain a significant ownership position.
Design Happenings
Dollhouses go designer at the third annual La Petite Maison Gala
On December 4, Houston design aficionados flocked to Hotel ZaZa in the city’s Museum District for the après-ski-themed La Petite Maison Gala. Founded by local designer Alexandra Killion, the buzzy benefit tasks Texas-based architects, designers, and builders to construct fantastical dollhouses, which are then auctioned off to support a local nonprofit. This year, the miniature marvels by Jennifer Barron Interiors, Courtney Barton, Elizabeth Garrett Interiors, Amy Kummer Interiors, Kristen Leigh Studio, Jean Liu Design, Wills Design Associates, and AD PRO Directory’s Avery Cox Design garnered $213,000 for Family Houston, which provides counseling and employment coaching. Structurally crafted by Reagan & André Architecture Studio and Alair Homes Houston, the miniature forms spanned aesthetics: Barron’s Southern Georgian–style abode flashed a teeny delft tile fireplace, while Cox’s Art Deco meets Greco Roman villa was coated in jewel tones.
AD PRO Hears…
