Float from the Paul Davis collection in wool.
Andrew Joseph: After 20 years of defining design in hide, what inspired you to expand into wool & silk?
Kyle Bunting: My journey began with a gift from my father — an artwork that opened my eyes to the artistic potential of hide. Over the years, we’ve transformed leather into a medium for expression, much like a painter with a canvas. But as an artist, evolution is essential. Wool and silk offered a new frontier, a different texture and movement, yet the same opportunity to create dimensional, sculptural works. The challenge was to translate the depth, carving, and rich color variation of hide into a woven textile. After three years of development, we’ve done just that — pushing craftsmanship and artistry into a new realm.
AJ: How does your approach to designing in wool & silk differ from working with hide?
KB: While the materials and techniques differ, our approach remains unified. With hide, we create through assembly — cutting, layering, and piecing together bold compositions. Wool and silk, on the other hand, rely on weaving, carving, and tonal variations to achieve depth and movement. But whether it’s hide, wool, or silk, the vision is the same: every piece is a balance of craftsmanship, color, and precision. It’s about pushing the boundaries of material while staying true to the artistry that defines our work.
Atlas from the Douglas Friedman collection in wool.
AJ: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
KB: Service the artist.
AJ: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as a designer?
KB: Start from the ground up. A rug is the foundation of a room — it defines the space, sets the tone, and anchors the design. When you get the rug right, everything else — furnishings, lighting, and art — falls into place with a sense of cohesion. This advice has shaped my approach to design. Whether working in hide, wool, or silk, I focus on creating rugs that don’t just complement a space but shape its entire atmosphere. A well-designed rug isn’t just an accessory; it’s the starting point for a great interior.
AJ: What’s your design pet peeve?
KB: Laziness in the design process. Great design requires thought, intention, and a willingness to push boundaries. When someone defaults to the easiest or most predictable choice without considering the bigger picture, it shows. That said, I also believe in being open to all ideas — innovation comes from exploration. At the heart of what we do is service; our job is to help designers and clients bring their vision to life. The best outcomes happen when creativity is paired with dedication and a commitment to doing the work.
Tower Rug from the upcoming Tom Fruin collaboration.
AJ: How do you stay creative and inspired, especially when expanding into new materials?
KB: I travel constantly, scheduling my time around events and exhibitions that fuel creativity. As Picasso once said, “Inspiration exists but it has to find you working.” That resonates with me deeply.
AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
KB: There’s no single dream client — it’s about the creative trust they bring to the process. The best collaborations happen when a designer sees the full potential of what we do and gives us the freedom to explore. When there’s a shared vision and a willingness to push beyond the expected, that’s where the magic happens. Whether it’s a private residence, a boutique hotel, or an unexpected application, the dream is always about working with someone who values the artistry and craftsmanship as much as we do.
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