Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/975396
50 E uropean embroidered textiles from the 17th and 18th centuries are highly coveted, but they're also fragile and rare. Interior designers have always loved the look, but 30 years ago, even good reproductions of antique embroideries were hard to find. Former Bloomingdale's buyer Mona Perlhagen saw this as an opportunity: Not only could she start her own business, but she could preserve historic embroidery at the same time. In 1992, she moved from New York to London, where she researched French and English archives and sourced authentic materials and craftsmen. From this passion, Chelsea Textiles was born. The London- based company has become one of the world's most desired resources for hand-embroidered textiles and pillows, respected for its adherence to original designs and manufacturing. Collaborations include designs by English interior designer and hotelier Kit Kemp and charming embroidered dog- breed pillow designs by former World of Interiors illustrator and textiles expert Domenica More Gordon. George Cameron Nash has carried Chelsea Textiles for years. This month, he brings Chelsea's furniture to Texas for the first time. Like the textiles, Chelsea furniture is painstakingly researched, handmade, and finished by master craftsmen using traditional techniques. Perlhagen and her daughter, Chelsea design director Jenny Simpson, will be in Dallas at George Cameron Nash on May 3, to launch the furniture collection. Also on May 3, designer Kit Kemp flies in from London to host a private high tea at the showroom. Kemp and her husband, Tim, own Firmdale Hotels, where she is design director; properties include Ham Yard Hotel, Haymarket Hotel, and The SoHo in London and Crosby Street Hotel and the Whitby Hotel in New York. Kemp will sign her book Every Rooms Tells a Story. Look for our exclusive interview with her in an upcoming issue. To the trade through George Cameron Nash, georgecameronnash.com. TWO LONDON POWERHOUSES LAND AT GEORGE CAMERON NASH. CHELSEA TEXTILES + KIT KEMP Chelsea Textiles' Gustavian console BY REBECCA SHERMAN