HISTORY OF A BRAND BAXTER

One of the most original brands on the Italian interiors scene and an expert in luxury leathers, Baxter’s intriguing past is as rich as its design output

When it comes to Italian furniture brands, it can be said that there is a typical style: clean lines, boxy shapes and neutral colours. Baxter is different. One of the younger labels on the scene – it was established in 1990 – it marries traditional influences with bold, modern twists.

Baxter is a family-run company, with all its products crafted at its factory near Como. So far, so Italian – but why the British-sounding brand name? Apparently, this was chosen because Baxter’s original collection of upholstered furniture had a ‘typically English mood’. A hint of this can still be seen in its gentleman’s club-style armchairs and buttoned sofas.

The ‘Chester Moon’ sofa epitomises Baxter’s skill for combining classic shapes with modern, witty details

The Chesterfield-style ‘Chester Moon’ sofa (2009) is Baxter’s most famous design. Extravagantly buttoned all over and available in five widths, including an extra-large size measuring almost four metres, it epitomises the brand’s skill for combining classic shapes with witty, modern details. The sofa was designed by Paola Navone, who has collaborated with Baxter since 2003. Her inimitable colour sense – which encompasses jewel- like blues, botanical greens and oxblood reds – has played a major role in shaping the brand’s identity, as has her flair for big shapes and tactile finishes. For 2017, the brand is venturing into new territory with its debut collection of outdoor furniture. Overseen by Paola Navone and designer Antonino Sciortino, it features sculptural designs in tubular copper and high-tech, water-resistant leathers. It seems that Baxter’s expertise in skins knows no bounds ( baxter.it).