Modern design offers new twist on classic rockers
The simple motion of rocking back and forth is synonymous with good feelings. Soothing and relaxing, rocking eases tension and induces rest. Praise for rocking is forthcoming from every age group, and for good reason.
A rocking chair is a mother’s best friend in the nursery. The motion mimics the movement a baby feels in the mother’s womb. Studies suggest that the act of rocking releases endorphins that relieve anxiety and elevate moods.
President John F. Kennedy was a great proponent of the rocking chair, insisting that it relieved his chronic back pain. He even took his rocker with him when he traveled.
There are several designs and types of rockers, including gliders and reclining gliders.
Dating back to the 1800s, the iconic Bentwood rockers were made by bending and shaping wood while it was wet (or green). Today, the rocker is available in designs that have a distinctively modern edge, but they share the same soothing qualities.
Monte Design’s Joya Rocker, shown here, has a compact footprint and has been thoughtfully designed with a new mother’s comfort in mind. The rocker has ergonomic arm height and a high back for exceptional comfort. The chair includes a lumbar pillow that can be used to support the back, neck or elbow when holding the baby. The rocker base options are solid walnut, white or clear maple. The high-density foam fill is free of any flame-retardant chemicals.
The contemporary lines of the Rockwell Bassinet (not shown) match the modern nursery in size and design. The bassinet has a streamlined chrome stand with solid walnut rocking feet. The soft upholstered basket can be removed and transported to different rooms in the home. The basket’s protective sides are covered with removable, washable fabric. The bassinet comes with a waterproof mattress pad and fitted sheets.
Babies grow into active toddlers and young children. Monte Design has a solution for chairs that suit their size and youthful energy. Monte’s Cubino seats are made of thick, durable foam covered with a soft, strong micro suede. As the photo shows, the seats are lightweight, and the high-quality foam holds its shape for years. The seat cushion is removable, and the covers are removable and machine washable.
Monte Design specializes in modern furniture for the nursery and kids, as well as a home collection of chairs and sofas. The designs have a small footprint that works well in any space. The Mitchell Swivel Chair (not shown) is compact and curved, resting on a circular stainless-steel swiveling base. Height, width and depth are each 26 inches. The chair is available in a choice of fabrics and two-tone with genuine Italian tan leather. To complement the compact size of the chairs, the Duo solid walnut side tables measure 20 inches high and 14 inches wide.
Choose from Monte’s wide selection of fabric types and colors. The company sends free samples on standard fabrics. Visit www. montedesign.com when you are looking for a stylish way to rock away the stresses of the day. It’s a good option for moderately sized furniture with a modern twist using eco-conscious sustainable design and manufacturing for your home. Debbie Travis’ House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Email questions to house2home@ debbietravis.com. Follow Debbie on Twitter at www.twitter.com/debbie_travis, or visit her website, www.debbietravis.com.