Cast in saturated mono- and multichromatic hues—photographs of Holly Hunt’s new Onward Collection indicate a bold shift for the well-established Chicago furniture brand, part of the Knoll universe since 2014 and the Miller Knoll conglomerate since 2021. The natural finishes of rectilinear sideboards and muted tones of moderately plush sofas long synonymous with the boutique producer have been replaced by the sleek lacquered surfaces of undulating stools and the porous dimple texture of forged metal side tables.
Marking seasoned talent Chris Eitel’s recent appointment as Holly Hunt Design Director, the freshly imagined 9-piece offering nods to the sculptural audacity of Vladimir Kagan Design Group, for which he complementarily serves as Executive Creative Director. Eitel spent years training with the sister brand’s late namesake—an ever-provactive giant of American design—but also developed his own vocabulary.
Onward seems to have emerged as a coherence of styles and ambitions but, as the name suggests, announces something entirely nascent. It’s neotenic, unexpectedly proportioned, space age even, but still demonstrative of Holly Hunt’s commitment to uncompromising quality, refined luxury, and timeless design. To ensure the efficacy of this cohesive venture, Eitel worked closely with SVP and Executive Creative Director Jo Annah Kornak and their internal team.
“Onward represents a defining moment,” she said. “It embodies the ambition of the design studio and illuminates the path ahead. Each piece is designed to make a statement, crafted to command attention and play the hero in any room. This collection remains true to the brand’s DNA while offering Chris’ fresh new perspective.”
While the entirely handcrafted Isley Sofa balances the crisp profile of a sculpted solid wood base and a tight seat-and-back, the aptly named Selina Slipper Chair takes on soft curves and archetonic resolve. Its fluid upholstery complements a carved solid wood frame that, with an open and light silhouette, takes on unanticipated proprietary dimensions. The Lucius Console is clad in a distinctive ring-cut veneer and has an elongated lacquered base. As with all nine pieces, the design is meant to cut a striking figure, become the star of a show, regardless of interior style. The Dent Cabinet is defined by a rhythmic pattern of recessed forms imbuing it with both visual and visceral aplomb. Even the smaller lacquer finish Yoel Stool takes the cake.
“Every iconic design brand reaches a moment when it must reinterpret its legacy to continue building it… onward,” said Eitel. “Onward is playful, vibrant, and the start of something exciting and fresh – a new era for the brand. It captures the spirit of Holly Hunt through a modern lens and proves that a storied design house can evolve without losing its soul.”
To learn more about the brand, visit hollyhunt.com.
Photography courtesy of Holly Hunt.
