I am thrilled to share what's new in design for the home.  I discovered a company that has an interesting story as well as unique and exclusive furniture and textiles unlike any I've seen.

The company is called Bunakara, founded by Joana Aranha.  Bunakara is the Hindu word for weaver, the humble yet precious craftsman who shapes the artistic landscape of India and inspires the world.

I had the pleasure of speaking with the founder's daughter, company architect Marta Aranha.

1. How long has Bunakara been in business? I love that the name is Hindu for “weaver”.

The conception of the collections took place throughout 2014.  Joana’s wonderful  ideas were first designed and water-colored  creating the visual expression of Bunakara’s collection. Technical drawings and the execution of the prototypes was the next step and production followed.

In  January 2015 we revealed it at the Atlanta’s Mart and the response was really good. So we went in April to High Point which confirmed the enthusiastic welcome clients gave to the brand.We would say that 2016 is the launching year of Bunakara.

1. Where do you get your inspiration for the designs?

Joana Aranha, heart of Bunakara and head of creation, always goes back as far possible in search for inspirational elements in a dialog between her cosmopolitan soul and her artisan essence. Although Joana has her roots in Europe, a land of history that inspires her creations, it is in India that she celebrates heritage and nourishes savoir-faire to create the objects she does not find anywhere else.

Inserted inside the pillow case is the phrase "not to be found".  Their motto for their one-of-a-kind products!

1. What is your favorite product and why?

It is very difficult for Joana to pick one product since the whole collection reflects what she really loves. If only you could see her when she holds the fabrics…. And the extremely keen eye for proportion when it comes to the furniture.But since Joana has to choose, on textiles her favorite is the Patchwork story because of the incredible mix of velvet, linen, cotton, buttons and embroideries. A patchwork of a story, the mix of old techniques.Regarding furniture the piece that Joana can’t resist is the two stripe chair with the back covered with fabric. It’s an Icon, the chair that is completely unexpected, that surprises the client. Actually this one was the first creation of Bunakara, maybe that’s why there is a special connection.

4.  Tell me about the red flower and why it’s included in every piece?It is the iconic signature detail, a tiny beaded red rose with a fabric-wrapped stem. Inspire by a red flower Joana once cupped in her hands in New Delhi, represents the soul of Bunakara, the “beginning of everything”. The flower of India insignia hangs from all the Bunakara pieces.

Another signature of Bunakara is one painted leg on each piece of furniture.

Here are some of my favorites.  Pay close attention to the details.....

The stamp of quality.

The tie on the back of this settee is everything!

Window treatment close up details....

5.   What national venues do you show your product? In Atlanta we are in JDouglas showroom and in New York we are represented by Life Designs LLC, c/o Amy Lynn. This Fall we will be present at the High Point, in the Salon at The Suites at the Marketplace  Booth - G605

To view the other products click Bunakara.

Joann

photos provided by Bunakara or Kandrac & Kole Interior Designs, Inc.