Pierre Frey, Fabric of an era

At a time when minimalism’s influence can be seen everywhere, one might think that the world of interior fabrics is rather quiet. But Patrick Frey, who heads the family firm, emphasizes that exciting things are happening in his business. He’s enthusiastic about “the transformation” of his profession – the interest in eco-friendly materials or demand for high-tech textiles that resemble natural fabrics. But of course it’s the design, or pattern of a fabric that has helped establish the reputation of Pierre Frey, which has furnished top hotels around the world including the George V. And the company today has more than 8,000 design references and 30,000 archive documents dating from the 16th century to today. With the recent openings of a showroom in Paris and a location in Cannes, as well as the creation of a line of sofas, lamps and sheets, the company certainly enjoys rising to a challenge.