Global Expressions Collection

Resiliency of Culture
Expressed Through Design

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Designed in collaboration with Gensler, serving as product design consultant, the Global Expressions Collection honors enduring cultures by drawing inspiration from their traditional textiles.

While each pattern is distinctly individual, there are wonderful similarities in geometry and scale that allow them to be mixed, as well as used independently.

Scott Star, Director of Product Development and Co-Global Practice Area Leader, Gensler

Traditional Techniques

Geometric Patterns

Global Expressions’ six patterns – Kente, Yakan, Jakar, Shibori, Kuba, and Ochre – reinterpret traditional weft techniques, material dyeing processes, and brocades through asymmetrical grids, faded corners, and intersecting shapes.

Central Africa

Kuba

Kuba cloth designs originated in Central Africa in the 17th century in the Kuba Kingdom. It features both repeated themes and irregularities throughout its pattern. Our adaptation is focused on its bold geometric repeats.

Australia

Ochre

The principal foundation of Australian Indigenous art, Ochre pigments were initially used in body painting, rock painting, and artifacts. Dating back 400,000 years, recognized as the earliest use of pigment.

Ghana, West Africa

Kente

Kente cloth hails from Ghana, West Africa. Made of strips of silk and cotton woven together in a narrow loom, the fabric was historically worn as a wrap by royalty among ethnic groups. Our pattern highlights its stripes and the angular geometry inside them.

Bhutan

Jakar

Found in Bhutan, South Central Asia, Jakar textiles feature signature brocades and supplementary warp patterns signifying prestige and wealth. This ornate pattern creates a graphic yet airy aesthetic.

Japan

Shibori

Shibori, meaning “to wring, squeeze, or press”, is a Japanese tie-dying technique used to produce a number of different patterns. Traditionally dyed with indigo ink, these patterns are achieved with folding coupled with binding or stitching. Our interpretation is a deconstructed version of the pattern.

Philippines

Yakan

The Yakan are indigenous to the tropical island of Basilan in the Philippines. Their original, traditionally geometric textile designs were made from pineapple and bamboo fibers brightly dyed with natural extracts.

Geometry and Scale

Specify these stunning translucent repeats as they come or work with a Materials Consultant to customize their scale to best fit your design needs.

Resilient Patterns
Inspired Design

Amplify light and add privacy with your choice of translucent Varia or Etched 3form Glass. Cleanable, durable, and stunning, designed for any environment in mind.