fbpx
Close

david/nicolas’ blends decoration and function for new Pierre Frey furniture collection

Verso is the first furniture collection under new artistic director, Sam Baron

Verso by david/nicolas

david/nicolas is behind Pierre Frey’s first collection under new artistic director of Furniture, Sam Baron, that reinterprets tradition to blend decoration and function


Verso is the new furniture collection by Lebanese duo david/nicolas for Parisian design house Pierre Frey, designed in collaboration with its new artistic director of Furniture, Sam Baron — both of whom share a passion for reinterpreting tradition in a contemporary way.

The collection showcases a series of pieces that respond to new lifestyles, blending functional and modular design with the decorative arts. It demonstrates an innovative approach by marrying classic, contemporary and futuristic elements into a timeless aesthetic.

Verso by david/nicolas

Focusing on the theme of travel and the great transatlantic liners such as those once decorated by designer and decorator René Prou from the 1930s to the 50s, Baron was confident that David Raffoul and Nicolas Moussalem’s distinctive approach to contrasting materials and blending influences would result in a fresh visual language for the Maison.

The designers boldly reinterpreted René Prou’s codes, combining the notions of comfort with careful design decisions to create three, unusual seating configurations. These include a drawer-dresser and a lounge chair and sofa-shelf that can be combined with a low pouf-table. A folding screen with shelves called Versus designed by Baron and two pedestal tables called Venus, along with a rug by René Prou complete this concept of a new spirit in contemporary design.

All the pieces are made by craftsmen in Pierre Frey’s workshop in Villers Cotterêt, France, highlighting the handcrafted and meticulous finishes of the collection. The solid oak is engraved with fine grooves, the luxurious brass knobs add a sophisticated touch while the mohair velvet ‘Teddy’ elegantly adorns the shape of the seats.

Baron’s artistic direction brings with him an affinity for the heritage of decorative arts, which is evident throughout the Verso collection. This, applied with his own vision, brings forth a design language that redesigns the basics and reinterprets tradition without straying from brand’s beginnings. His sensitive approach relooks at traditional furniture-making and know-how through a contemporary lens.   

René Prou – the grandfather of Patrick Frey — serves as a poignant inspiration for his work at the Maison, where he is currently reorganising, modifying and enriching its collections, while reconnecting the House of Pierre Frey to its roots.

The Latest

Things to Covet in June 2025

Elevate your spaces with a pop of colour through these unique pieces

Designing Spaces with Purpose and Passion

We interview Andrea Savage from A Life By Design – Living & Branding on creating aesthetically beautiful and deeply functional spaces

Craft and Finesse

EMKAY delivers a bold and intricate fit-out by transforming a 1,800 sqm space into SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi, a vibrant multi-level dining experience

An Impressive Entrance

The Synua Wall System by Oikos offers modularity and style

Drifting into Summer

Perennials unveils the Sun Kissed collection for 2025

The Fold

Architect Rabih Geha’s collaboration with Iwan Maktabi

AYESHA ERKIN

From Floorplans to Foodscapes

For Ayesha Erkin, architecture was never just about buildings, but about how people live, eat, gather and remember

deos mykonos

Between Sea and Sky

Cycladic heritage, heartfelt hospitality and contemporary design converge on Deos Mykonos, designed by GM Architects

A Fresh Take on ’70s Style

Curved shapes and colourful artworks bring vibrancy to this contemporary home with mesmerising nature views

Into the Woods

Perched among the treetops, this serene home’s permanent connection to nature invites dwellers to unplug and unwind

A New Chapter for Dubai – Jebel Ali Racecourse

A.R.M. Holding and BIG unveil visionary masterplan around Jebel Ali Racecourse