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I n the early 1990s, David Sutherland was the first show- room in the Southwest to carry furniture by an under-the- radar French interior designer named Christian Liaigre. First introduced to the U.S. via designer Holly Hunt in Chicago, the Liaigre look caught on fast for its min- imalism, refinement, and exquisite crafts-manship. The collection moved to George Cameron Nash show- room, where Holly Hunt also had her collection. Now, some three decades after their relationship began, Sutherland and Liaigre are togeth- er again, with a room showcasing select pieces from the designer's full collection, including upholstery and leathers. "The French work with a discipline that is to be admired," Sutherland says. "Their attention to detail is what attracts designers." Sutherland worked directly with the designer's wife, Deborah Liaigre, who is also the company's artistic and managing director, to bring the col- lection to Houston. "It raises the bar," says Sutherland of the collection. "It's aspirational — not just in terms of quality, but look." To the trade at David Sutherland Showroom, Decora- tive Center Houston, 5120 Woodway Dr. #170, davidsutherlandshowroom.com. FRENCH CONNECTIONS B Y R E B E C C A S H E R M A N Shelter armchair in larch wood and polished copper 50 Shelter armchair in macassar ebony and brass Deborah Liaigre Hunier sofa