The Return of Nailheads
Written by faith on February 13th, 2009
Eliza Chair
This detail was once synonymous with grandpa’s wingback chair. Now nailheads are glam, stylishly studding upholstered furniture, even creating patterns on the backs and edges.
This overscaled, low-sitting armchair with nailhead trim is, as O’Brien describes, an upholstered wood frame chair that sits and acts like a club chair. It is based on an original that O’Brien created for the lobby of the 60 Thompson Hotel in New York City. The carved wood body has its roots in American Mission style, especially evident when finished in the standard Modern Oak. But with its pronounced flares borrowed from a classic ChanelTM sofa, the overall profile owes some of its grace to French Deco. Bold nailheads on a wide fabric self tape and lengthy upholstered armrests add complexity and detail.
Nailheads will keep flourishing. Next look for spit tacks, smaller and more randomized nails, being used in furniture as a rustic accent.
