Bernhardt Furniture has tapped Erin Sullivan, former Vice President and General Merchandise Manager of luxury home furnishings brand Frontgate, to lead its Bernhardt Exteriors outdoor furniture line.
Launched in October 2019, the new Bernhardt Exteriors brand offers a range of approximately 70 pieces including sofas, sectionals, accent and swivel chairs, dining tables, dining chairs and occasional tables in custom materials and finishes and luxury performance fabrics.
Sullivan, who will serve as Director of Bernhardt Exteriors, held various senior merchandising positions at Frontgate for 19 years and most recently was Vice President of Product Development and Merchandising at Fine Furniture Design since 2017. She reports to Steve Pilgrim, Senior Vice President of Residential Sales.
“Erin brings exceptional expertise in the luxury outdoor space to Bernhardt,” Pilgrim said. “She was regarded as the driving force in establishing Frontgate’s position in the outdoor luxury space. She has a deep understanding of what the end consumer is looking for, along with outstanding creativity and innovation in product development, strategic vision and team leadership."
“I’ve always admired Bernhardt’s brand aesthetic, and I am excited about the opportunity to bring their iconic luxe look into the outdoor space,” Sullivan said. Currently, the Bernhardt Exteriors outdoor line is distinguished by its curated, eclectic assortment of unique, high design furniture using innovative, quality materials designed for comfort that blurs the lines between what is indoors vs outdoors.
“As we expand the line, we will continue to focus on creating signature designs and collections congruent with our unique brand aesthetic,” she said.
Given her 20-year background in outdoor furnishings, Sullivan said she also looks forward to “educating our sales team and retailers about Bernhardt Exteriors, while also introducing the Bernhardt brand and legacy to the dedicated patio and outdoor retail shops."
