West Elm and Stylist Colin King’s New Collaboration Is Quiet Luxury to a T
It’s been a busy month for West Elm. In addition to the release of their kids’ collaboration with National Geographic, the Brooklyn-based modern home retailer has partnered with interiors stylist, author, and Apartment Therapy 2023 Design Changemaker Colin King on an exclusive new line of furnishings.
The 41-piece-strong capsule features larger anchor pieces, like sofas, chairs, tables, and lamps, alongside textiles and smaller decorative accessories, all of which King believes address gaps in the market. “At home and on set, there are certain objects that I always reach for — a ceramic vessel, a simple wooden box, a tailored chair, a sculptural occasional table,” King said in a press release announcing the collection’s launch. “These are things that should be easy to find and yet they’re things that too often elude me. Together with West Elm, we’ve created versatile everyday treasures, including accessories, seating, and lighting.”
Those familiar with King’s work know natural materials, classic shapes, and attention to craftsmanship are at the heart of everything he does, and this collaboration is no exception. Organic elements like ceramic, stone, and wood dominate the case goods, while linen rounds out the upholstered pieces and soft goods offerings. In keeping with the decorating philosophy behind his 2023 book, Arranging Things, King sees all of the pieces — even the smallest objects — as layering tools to help tell the story of a home and constantly keep reinventing it through artfully created tableaus and vignettes.
The collection as a whole has a stunning, earthy neutral palette that would work in many interiors, but those who favor a warm minimalist or more traditional aesthetic will probably find the most to shop. Pieces like the Iron Taper Holders would bring a textural touch to a fireplace mantel or dining table, while the Deluxe Linen Stripe Pillow Covers in assorted subdued colors will jazz up an existing sofa with just the right amount of oomph.
Other standouts include the Travertine Table Lamp, which is available in two sizes individually or can be purchased as a set, and the Bench, which has just the right proportions, silhouette, and quiet striped seat as to not command too much attention in an entryway or elsewhere in a home. Anyone looking for the perfect place to display a special bust, vase, or other piece of pottery will love the Pedestal Table, which comes in two heights and is made from sustainably sourced solid pine wood.
The release of the Colin King for West Elm collection has kicked off the roll-out of West Elm’s fall 2023 offerings, so you can expect more pieces to arrive in stores and online over the next few weeks. Prices for King’s collection start at $29 and go up to $3,299.