Benjamin Johnston’s Collection Dispatches from Italy
A Q&A WITH DESIGNER BENJAMIN JOHNSTON
It’s a great privilege that, as part of our work, we have the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most gifted artists and designers in the business. We get exclusive looks into their creative inner lives and a peek into their day-to-day. We couldn’t help but wonder: why keep that to ourselves?
We are thrilled to bring you Houston designer and industry VIP Benjamin Johnston's collection. The collection is an invitation to revel in the pageantry of Italy through color, pattern, and texture. The palettes are jubilant and sophisticated, inspired by the Italian seasons, and the juxtaposition of ancient and modern that defines the landscape in this part of the world.
Ben’s creative process continues to inspire us. We’re excited to share it with you. We think you will be inspired to create a getaway of your very own.
Classic. Curated. Cool. How does your signature approach show up in your collection?
I believe that rich colors and decadent textures will never go out of style. These classic qualities are manifested throughout the entire collection. The dramatic patterns and colors are an exploration of mid-century European fashion, which we then carefully curated and rendered in a variety of scales and techniques. The fabrics, wallcoverings, and trimmings embody a fresh, cool vibe that support the feelings of being on a luxurious Italian vacation.
Do you have a favorite piece in the collection?
All of my children are my favorites, so I could not possibly choose. I am much more interested in knowing which patterns speak to other designers.
How do you think your work on this collection will enrich your next experience with Italy?
I often find myself captivated by the landscape and the architecture that inhabits it, but I believe that I will definitely be more aware of the fashion when I am on my next Italian 'vacanza.'
What's been on your inspiration board lately?
Classical paintings and fabulous photography!
Did you tuck in any personally meaningful in any of the designs of this collection?
I traveled extensively throughout Europe in my early 20s-especially in Italy. Feeling isolated during the pandemic, I fantasized about returning to travel along those same paths and finding new ones.Of course, at the time I was crafting the collection, a trip to Italy was not a possibility, but I could wander in my mind. So much of the collection was inspired by my joyful memories, re-experienced through my daydreams.
If you could send a postcard home from anywhere in Italy, where would it be?
Rome! Between the culture, history, architecture, and art, it is my most favorite place in Italy. Even though it is an ancient city, I believe that you can feel the pulse of a thriving, modern one.