Another rug luring visitors to the booth for further inspection was a cut pile natural silk rug imbedded with 20,000 Swarovski crystals ($22,500 in 9x12). The crystals are heat-set-applied beneath the surface level of the pile, so that the rug can be maintained -- vacuumed and even washed -- Izsak told a hospitality designer at the stand. "Many of our client's customers have amazing art collections, which dictate subtle rugs that won't detract from the art. But at the same time, they want rugs that are worthy of the art and luxurious in quality, design and materials -- like the rugs we are showing here," she said.
Doris Leslie Blau's custom rug program, which has its own dedicated showroom (dubbed DLB@D&D) in New York City's Decoration & Design Building, features an extensive range of designs and weaving techniques. In addition to the silk rugs shown, rugs are made from wool, cotton and other natural fibers in cut pile, looped and high-low pile, flatweaves and more.
Izsak has focused on transitional and contemporary designs, but any design in the bespoke program's archives can be modified, including those by prominent architects and designers in collections curated by Doris Leslie Blau as far back as 2002.
In addition to the show, marketing efforts include a new hardcover book featuring custom installations that illustrate the breadth of looks designers can create. "We just came out with this brand new book and we've developed so many new textures, the integrity of our company speaks for itself," Izsak said.
Doris Leslie Blau signature galleries are located in the Interior Design Building on East 61st Street in New York and in Washington, D.C.