Weitzner’s new spring collection, Alhambra as Muse, was inspired by VP and Design Director Lori Weitzner’s long-awaited tour of the beautiful complex in Granada, Spain. Blending intricate multi-faceted techniques of print, weave, embroidery and artisanal paper-making, this collection captures the compelling geometry of the Alhambra’s ancient motifs, the magnificent play of light between water, sun and structure, its serene garden landscapes, and the magic that resides there.
Raymond Paul Schneider: What was the overall timeline from conception to final design?
Lori Weitzner: The collection began in the summer of 2023, inspired by a visit to the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. Its intricate mosaics, carvings and serene gardens became the creative foundation. Soon after, the studio transformed on-site photos and sketches into visual research, exploring mixed-media techniques to develop patterns that captured the palace’s essence.
RPS: What was your initial inspiration, and where did the idea(s) come from?
LW: The iconic palace and fortress in Granada, a symbol of timeless beauty, combines intricate mosaics, carvings, gardens and fountains that evoke serenity and strength. Constructed over a 250-year period, the Alhambra represents the enduring power of beauty to connect us across time and cultures.
RPS: Describe your overall creative and design process.
LW: We began with photos I took while visiting the palace. The studio team began to paint, collage, sketch, rubber stamp and play with all kinds of tools to create patterns related to and inspired by the palace. Everything from the large gardens to the smallest ceramic tile to the shadow play from a cut-out stone window became our prompts. Then we took these designs and matched them to various qualities suitable for fabrics and wallcoverings. We approached our best mills and artisans to develop prototypes and samples. Once we finalized the quality, we could turn to color… the most enjoyable part for me!
RPS: Did you have a specific audience or theme in mind?
LW: Any interior designer who appreciates a modern approach to classic design with influences from multiple cultures and historical periods. Designers looking for something unique yet easy to use in a variety of interiors.
RPS: What methods, tools, and materials did you use to develop and prototype this design?
LW: Just about every method and material at our disposal! We incorporated intricate multi-faceted techniques of print, weave, embroidery and artisanal papermaking, utilizing metallic print, mylar, abaca pulp, special twisted boucle and chenille yarns, embossing… just to name a few. This combination of techniques — some very ancient and some quite innovative — is one of the characteristics that makes the collection so special, layered and sophisticated.
RPS: Did you use any new techniques or technologies to conceptualize or create this product?
LW: We use many special techniques, but perhaps my favorite is the use of pure abaca (banana fiber) that we made into pulp to create these wonderfully very dimensional paper tiles for the walls or ceilings. Although the material is natural, the way we created the tiles was very innovative.
RPS: Were there any challenges that influenced or changed the final design?
LW: Only that we ran out of time and had so many more designs to produce! Curating is always a challenge, but in the end, I believe we launched just the right balance with something for everyone.
RPS: Describe your brand’s overall DNA and ethos.
LW: We always try to be thoughtful, inventive and multi-faceted in our approach to design. We love the mix of old and new techniques to create products for interiors that create a sense of balance and well-being. We aim to always bring something fresh and interesting, but in ways that are somewhat familiar and grounding. At times our designs are romantic in the literary sense, but not sweet. Curated. Livable.
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