One of the largest introductions in its 30-year history, Lillian August’s new Vintage Roundtop Collection draws inspiration from the classic pieces revered for their iconic designs in Round Top, Texas. It also incorporates the aesthetics of three generations of the Lillian August family: the designer herself; Dan Weiss, company co-founder and Lillian’s son; and Lillian’s granddaughter, Eliza Weiss. The collection reflects the brand’s focus on creating timeless interiors with a dynamic signature play on color and iconic design.
The Beginnings of the Collection
“We love antiques and vintage furniture, so this is really a nod back to what we were doing in the business for many years. We see the reemergence of clientele who have an interest in vintage and antique furniture,” Dan said of the new collection. Its aesthetics were guided by various sensibilities: traditional drama from founder Lillian, rustic woods and big leather pieces from Dan, and a sustainability focus from Eliza. “Vintage Roundtop is a curated collection of some of our favorite forms and finishes that we plan to expand on for many years to come,” Dan added.
This Vintage Roundtop Collection gets back to the roots of Lillian August, which is coming up on celebrating 30 years in designing furniture. No stranger to doing antique reproduction looks, Lillian August has had many craft-oriented manufacturers support its business, and recent trends in the market show a desire for going back to traditional and antiques. “We’ve leaned into this casual lifestyle, but with high-end taste,” Dan said. “It’s really more of this flea market, antique discovery type of furniture that is now having a nostalgic resurgence.”
About the Collection
Featuring a relaxed, modern aesthetic that fits well in a wide range of lifestyles and décor, the Vintage Roundtop Collection showcases antique reproduction forms in relaxed oak finishes. In addition, there are several new vintage-inspired leather frames mixed with sumptuous woven fabrics and neutral hues. It pushes beyond typical home furnishings, presenting a more masculine collection than what Lillian August is typically known for, but “it still remains in line with the brand’s bold colors and traditional style elements,” Eliza said. “Clients will be able to spot the glam, traditional and bright Lillian August look within Roundtop.”
One standout of the collection is the Austin sectional, a beautiful mid-century European modular lounger featured in hand-distressed leather upholstery. A 1920s French Deco piece, the Ace chair is reminiscent of vintage finds. And the Knox cocktail table features a light oak Scandinavian design with an X-base, providing a smart balance of form and function. A dark finish for The Knox will be debuting at the Spring 2023 High Point Market.
A big part of the collection harkens back to Lillian August’s leather business. The Sherrill Furniture team, known for creating incredible, hand-distressed leathers that are unique in the market, was the inspiration for Lillian August to bring back leather. “Their hand finishing and waxing is totally unique, and it was really the inspiration for us to do a lot of this product to differentiate ourselves and use these themes,” Dan said.
So much of the story with this collection in particular comes through in the design and in the textiles selected. These days, clients want furniture that’s casual and elegant. “This collection is much more casual than any we’ve done - it’s got a light, clean oak finish, giving it a Scandinavian feel,” Dan said.
