Leather is one of those materials that only get better with time. See Hobnob’s picks for designer leather home accessories that show off your good taste in trays, aprons, chargers, tiles, and handsome totes for when you are on-the-go.
Courant Phone Chargers
Let’s face it, we are all in a steady relationship with our mobile phones, and the need for juice is constant. Why not set up a station that charges your phone in style? Courant, a Brooklyn design studio, has come up with a most elegant solution for keeping cell phones powered. They offer two models crafted in sensuous pebble-grain Italian leather. The CATCH:3 provides not only a deluxe surface for phone charging, it also includes an couple of areas to toss keys, wallet, watch, etc—so you know exactly where everything is before you run out the door. The CATCH: 1 focuses exclusively on charging. Both have extra fast charging power to pump up your iPhone or Android devices in no time—a timed 30 minutes faster than standard plug-in chargers. The base of the units are made of a heavy matte aluminum alloy material which keeps it from sliding around, and have an additional USB-A output to charge a second device (when your buddies drop by). Also, a nice item to stage in your guest room, so your friends feel extra welcome. 11” w x 8” d x .625” h. Catch:3, $175. Catch:1, $80. staycourant.com
DutchDeluxes
I fell in love with this collection when I encountered them at the NYNow Show last year. Dutchdeluxes is a Dutch design label that mixes cuisine and fashion beautifully with their hand-crafted kitchen products, made of the most durable and eye-catching leathers. Their philosophy: wining and dining is about feeling good—and looking good too. Their collection comes in vintage leathers, colored styles, and embossed in crocodile patterns. The color selection comes in a sophisticated range, you might have trouble deciding on the right one for you. The products are crafted to look better with age, when they will develop a nice patina, and be infused with memories of dinner parties shared with good friends.
Leather Aprons are made of 100% split leather, finished with an all-over dyed coating, making it easy to rinse and clean. The apron will arrive in a gift box which includes two black carabiners (hooks) and a loop for a handtowel. $195.
Oven Gloves are made of 100% full grain leather insulated with heat-resistant lining. Can be used with temperatures from 350ºF – 460ºF, and are finished with a dirt-repellent coating. $98.
The Round Serving Tray comes in a great range of colors, with embossed croc on some models. Covered in 100% leather on a base of waterproof plywood, this 18” round, tray comes finished with a coating making it easy to wipe with just a bit of water on sponge. $255. Match or contrast the tray with Leather Coasters, which are about 4” round, with a base of texon recycled leather.
In NYC you can find their merchandise at the Museum of Arts and Design or online at food52.com and dutchdeluxes.com
Miyabi Contract
If you are enamored by the idea of leather-clad walls, then the collection from Miyabi Casa will certainly capture your attention. Their contract division, Miyabi Contract sells their Leather Wall collections through design trade professionals. These collections are created with longevity in mind and their leather tiles and mosaics are suitable for intensive use in the hospitality world, so will wear especially well in a home environment with its fireproof, waterproof, antibacterial, stain-resistant, and washable characteristics.
Leather Mosaics come designed as a mural effect, with a large scale repeat, made of top quality leather. Custom designs are possible, and Miyabi honors a quick response time for design development and production. Leather Tiles come in 20 sophisticated patterns. See more info at miyabicontract.com
Jay Teske
If you love the look of leather with the spirit of the motorcycle lifestyle, these items are for you. With a passion for vintage motorcycles, Jay Teske’s career in leather began with creating bespoke motorcycle seats. (You may have seen his work on “American Choppers.”) In 2014, Jay and his wife launched Jay Teske Leather Co. in upstate New York, Kingston. The company only uses top-of-the-line hides that are sourced from the two remaining American tanneries which specialize in bridle leathers.
Jay Teske’s classic and clever designs work well in culinary settings. Most items are available in natural, brown, or black. I adore the minimalism of his Hanging Air Plant Holder. It’s made with 8/10 oz leather and comes with an air plant and care instructions, measures 3.5” and features a sold brass ring. $30.
When you are on the go, the Beer Carrier is the most stylish way to arrive with a six pack. Made with stainless hardware it fits both bottles and cans. $84.
More of a wine person? Your picnic just got more romantic with your personal Bicycle Wine Carrier. Made with stainless hardware, it straps securely to your bicycle frame. Once removed, the straps easily convert to a handle for elegant pouring. $65.
I wish every pan handle was cool to the touch, but when that’s not the case the Skillet Grip can help you serve in rugged style. Made from 9/10 oz vegetable tanned cowhide, it creates a handsome presentation indeed. $24. jayteske.com
V Rugs and Home
I came across this Miami-based design studio at NYNow Trade Show, and was impressed by their collection of leather pillows. Founded in 2006 by designers Rafael Velazquez and Mariano Michelli, everything is manufactured in the United States, from the fillers to the final product. The pillows often feature cloth backgrounds embellished with blocks of natural materials: skins, shells, leather, cowhide, horns, fur, or mango wood beads.
The white pillow in the photo is called Aline, and is crafted with striated leather backed by a gray cotton velour. The cover is removable cover. Zip closure. 25” l x 14”w available in Oyster or Grey. Filled with 95% duck feathers, 5% duck down. $365. Buy online at barneys.com. vrugsandhome.com/
Giobagnara
The leather goods from this company are designed by a 4th generation of Italian designers. Giorgio Bagnara had it in his genes to develop special home accessories using leather generally used in fashion. Styled with polished chrome-plated brass handles, the Victor Leather Tray is handcrafted in pebbled leather and will make anything you put on it that much more special. Available in white, gray, chartruese, orange, and black. Wipes clean with soft damp cloth. Available in four sizes. Mini, 12.25”l x 8.75”w x 2”h, $330; Small, 15”l x 11” w x 2” h, $395; Large, 21.25”l x 17.75” w x 2” h, $500; Extra-Large, 24.75”l x 21”w x 2”h, $535. Buy online at barneys.com. giobagnara.com
