It was my love of chocolate waffles that led to my discovery of Plaza Midwood’s newest store. We’d just finished Sunday brunch at La Bon, and I noticed the new storefront. “Liora Manné”: the script lettering looked fashionable and designy; rather incongruous next to Family Dollar.Peering inside the darkened shop, clearly still under construction, I saw brightly patterned rugs, cheerful pillows adorned with butterflies, and chic felted handbags. My interest piqued, I did some Google sleuthing and paid a well-timed visit to the Liora Manné booth at High Point Market. This led to an invitation to the store’s grand opening last Friday night: score!
Liora Manne at the store opening in Charlotte
Liora Manné is an Israeli-born, US educated textile designer who runs a successful business based in New York City. Her signature, trademarked product is called Lamontage™, which is a synthetic felted textile used to make rugs and fabrics. Many of the textiles include intricate layered patterns and die-cut shapes that add texture and dimension. At the opening event, I had the chance to meet the lovely Liora herself, and look through her company’s impressive portfolio of product installations. Her rugs can be seen in the Delano Hotel in Miami and Radio City Music Hall, among many other places.
A wall of beautiful pillows at the Liora Manne store
As you can see from the photos, Liora Manné’s felted fabrics can be used for upholstery. A company representative explained that the rugs and fabrics are extraodinarily durable, and are even suitable for use outdoors. Spot cleaning and regular steam cleaning is recommended. The Charlotte store stocks many of the fabrics, which can be purchased by the yard.
Tres chic! I love this script pattern.
This new Charlotte store is the first retail location for Liora Manné. (Products are sold online and through the New York showroom). I’m already a big fan, and feel lucky to have the store right in my neighborhood! Visit Liora Manné at the Central Square Shopping Center on Central Avenue, right across the street from Slate Interiors.
UPDATE, JUNE 2013: Since writing this post the Liora Manne store in Charlotte has sadly closed. You can still purchase products from the company online at Liora Manne Home.