designchicagomag.com designchicagomag.com THE MART DESIGN CHICAGO 77 76 DESIGN CHICAGO THE MART 1991 - Preservation of Braquenié Inspired by his father’s admiration for Braquenié fabrics, Patrick Frey acquired the historic Braquenié Maison, which was at risk of disappearing. This was a personal achievement for Patrick Frey and marked the beginning of a long-term commitment to preserving and revitalizing French textile heritage. 2022 - Acquisition of Thorp of London Founded in 1971 by Bernard Thorp, Thorp of London became renowned for its hand screen-printed textiles in the United Kingdom. In 2022, Maison Pierre Frey acquired the Norfolk- based workshop to preserve this unique expertise, blending British artisanal tradition with Pierre Frey’s decorative vision. 2018 - Furniture Manufacturing To respond to increasing demand for custom furniture and limited-edition pieces, the company integrated the Rosello Manufacture in Villers- Cotterêts. This facility brings together skilled artisans dedicated to high- end furniture production and craftsmanship. 2023 - Acquisition of Zuber Maison Pierre Frey acquired Zuber, a historic wallpaper manufacturer founded in 1790 and globally recognized for its panoramic wallpapers printed using woodblocks. The Zuber archive contains more than 130,000 engraved woodblocks, classified as historical monuments. This acquisition ensures the preservation of a two-century-old decorative heritage while supporting innovation and contemporary design. 1989 - Becoming a Manufacturer Pierre Frey acquired Denimal (Margueroy), a fabric-weaving mill in northern France and a long-standing partner since the 1950s. Specializing in wool and technical outdoor fabrics, the workshop represents a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and textile innovation. It is today recognized with the “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” (Living Heritage Company) label. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: COURTESY PIERRE FREY, MATTIA AQUILA. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ETHAN HERRINGTON, COURTESY PIERRE FREY, FANNY LATOUR-LAMBERT.