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ART + DECORATION 54 S cott + Cooner opened 23 years ago with a profusion of contemporary Italian names, many of which were brand new to Dallas. Paola Lenti's collection of woven furniture and rugs was one that made a splash, with its uncommon, sumptuous hues and a casual, low-slung molto Italiano vibe. Today, Lenti's designs remain as fresh and fun as ever — so much so that last month, Scott + Cooner launched its first dedicated Paola Lenti store-in-store, devoted to a vast selection of her indoor and outdoor furnishings. It wasn't until 1994 that she launched her namesake company, with a trove of bright felt she discovered in the back of a warehouse; the chunky rugs she wove with it became instant hits. Since then, Lenti has debuted high-tech materials suitable for outdoor use, including a tubular knit that she weaves into Plump outdoor throws. Her cutting-edge materials — such as the signature Rope Corda 10 used in most of her outdoor furniture — come from years of working with university researchers in Italy. And perhaps her greatest secret weapon is her sister, Anna Lenti, a nuclear engineer who now works for the brand. "We use very high-tech research in our materials," says Anna, who was on hand for the opening-night party at Scott + Cooner in March. "But our construction and weaving techniques are still the old Italian way." Collaborations are key to Lenti's business, and she often shares the creative process with other designers, including Nicolò Morales, who designed a set of color-drenched Calatini ceramic side tables made from volcanic stone, and Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola, who is responsible for the woven Nido scoop outdoor armchair. At Scott + Cooner, 1617 Hi Line Dr., Suite 100, scottcooner.com. Rebecca Sherman Blurring Lines ITALIAN DESIGNER PAOLA LENTI'S COLORFUL WOVEN FURNITURE MAKES a VIBRANT STATEMENT, with a NEW SHOP-IN-SHOP at SCOTT + COONER. Paola Lenti Ami chair Paola Lenti Paola Lenti Otto seating and Agadir lanterns