“Some people see things as they are
and ask why?
I dream things that have never been
and ask why not?”
The year was 1968, and Robert F. Kennedy, the esteemed senator from New York, uttered the words of dramatist George Bernard Shaw throughout his presidential campaign. They were words that perfectly captured the year, the decade and the unwavering spirit of the United States of America. At that critical inflection point in history, Kennedy tapped into our country’s ability to evolve and innovate, and inspired a vision for change.
More than 40 years later, his message still rings true.
For Restoration Hardware, the past year has also been one of unprecedented change, a year in which, at every turn, we’ve asked ourselves “why not?” We sought out the most creative artisans in the home furnishings industry who have “dreamed things that have never been,” turning Belgian brick pallets into unique coffee tables, French wine barrel staves into a stunning chandelier, and 100-year-old reclaimed floor boards from a distillery in Great Britain into one-of-a-kind dining tables. The year 2010 promises similar revolutionary thinking as our spring collection showcases our commitment to the best the world has to offer. Reproduction French vintage chairs covered in linen and burlap; an authentic American factory cart with a clear glass top exposing its vintage cast iron wheels and parts; a giant map of London (purchased in England’s premier archive shop) that has been perfectly reprinted, creating a dramatic statement and conversation piece. These are just a few of the pieces debuting this season that will serve to further define your home.
Additionally, in the spirit of how we approach interior design, this spring we introduce the Restoration Hardware Garden catalog, our vision of an integrated aesthetic linking the indoors and outdoors, aspiring to create harmony between the architecture of one’s home and the surrounding landscape. A space that invites discovery and an appreciation of the natural world. A collection of furniture, fountains, objêts, planters and tools that enhance the sights, scents and sounds that exist only when we step outside.
This year will also begin the transformation of many of our stores throughout the country to our new “Gallery” concept, an artistic expression of our collection in an integrated gallery setting. We believe this new canvas for our products will enrich your experience and generate a wealth of ideas to evolve your home.
There is no better time than spring – a period of rebirth and renewal – to look beyond things as they are and, in the words of George Bernard Shaw and RFK, “dream things that have never been, and ask why not?”
Carpe Diem,
Gary Friedman
Chairman & CEO
