Embracing a New Americana: Introducing Hudson Valley

One of the most rewarding times here at Stickley is the day we get to let our customers in on new product that we’re very excited about. And that revelation finally happened last week for our newest lifestyle collection, Hudson Valley. This special collection that reimagines Americana is arriving now on the floors of our Authorized Dealers and company-owned showrooms, meaning that all of you now have the opportunity to see it for yourselves—and then make it your own!

When it was decided that a new collection should explore Americana style,  Director of Design Marissa Brown was passionate about what came next, immersing herself in research and inspiration. She knew Americana represented a bountiful period of Early American creativity. “It was incredibly moving to reflect on the makers of the past and how the act of creating was so central to their lives. Think about people sewing quilts, for example—taking arbitrary pieces and making something whole that tells a story. The way they worked together to create pieces that became something greater, and the quietness and thoughtfulness of that mindset—that was really magical for me. I wanted to show how that kind of collaborative craft is still current and relevant.”

Inspiration from these makers is easy to see throughout Hudson Valley. Marquetry drawn from American quilt patterns is crafted from walnut, maple, and black-dyed veneers, while details like hand-turned spindles, shaped cap rails, and plentiful drawers nod to both Americana and Shaker influences. Even the Iron Gray pulls found on so many drawers and cabinets take their familiar shape from iconic Shaker pegs!

At the same time, the collection makes important detours from the expected in order to combine nostalgia with fresh ideas. “I wanted to acknowledge contemporary artisans alongside the historic ones,” said Marissa. “In recent decades, many makers returning from the cities to rural communities have integrated rural traditions with their urban sensibility. That mingling of influences inspired me as I looked for ways to renew Americana style.”

One important departure comes in Hudson Valley’s woods and finishes. Instead of using cherry as was customary, the collection is crafted from American black walnut. And where a mid-tone brown finish might be more traditional, instead we see a deeper Dark Roast finish. Yet the collection doesn’t feel heavy, thanks to a brilliant twist: select spindles and cabinet interiors are made in Natural Maple, and the contrast in tones is simultaneously light-hearted and gorgeous.

Upholstered pieces have also been refreshed, with traditional forms given a larger, more modern scale along with contemporary tailoring. Included are a versatile 86-inch sofa, a striking wood-frame accent chair that’s full of character, a modified high wing chair with a swivel-base option, and the charming settee above, available in either black walnut or maple.

Over the course of its development, the Hudson Valley Collection has thoroughly captured our imaginations, and now it’s your turn. Hurry to see this joyful furniture for yourself. And who knows? Someday you may be able to boast, “I was one of the very first to own it!”

Additional sources:

Marissa Brown, Director of Design