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Over the last several years, we’ve seen many designers and brands tackle the problem of the boob light. A staple of rentals and new-builds, the fixture has prompted coverings made of fabric, ones sporting cabana stripes, and crafted of pleated cotton, among other styles. When we see wicker interpretations, they’re generally all in the same shape or hue. Which is why Ward + Gray’s take in its new Woven collection—available exclusively though the duo’s online shop, Boheme—totally delighted us.
On the heels of its gorgeous line of tile, the multidisciplinary design studio has launched a tight edit of stools, small tables, lighting, and a backgammon station inspired by coastal locales like Nantucket, the Bahamas, and North Carolina’s Outer Banks.
“Wicker is a material we love and return to again and again,” co-founder Staver Gray says, noting its enduring versatility. “It has an organic, natural quality that feels easy and casual, yet it can also be woven seamlessly into more formal interiors. It can read as both modern and traditional, depending on how it’s used.”
Co-founder Christie Ward adds that the five items were originally developed for different projects from the studio. “Each piece became a personal favorite, so we continued to refine and experiment with color, weave, and detail until they felt just right; and ultimately, perfect for Boheme.”
Of the Outer Banks light diffuser, Gray says it was born out of one of the pair’s hospitality projects. “The hotel had a relatively simple architectural shell, with low ceilings and all architectural lighting, so rather than take on extensive construction and electrical work, we looked for a simpler way to add character.” Gray explains that they developed the diffusers, which sport a contrasting dyed wicker trim, to screw directly into the ceiling.
Ahead, the duo weighs in on what makes the new designs special.
Theo Side Table
Created for: The Sanderling Resort
Staver Gray: We absolutely love mixed materials. You see it throughout the collection, from our mixed jute and wool rugs to our metal and glass lighting. We’re drawn to bringing together two organic materials that might not traditionally be paired, creating something that feels unexpected yet intuitive.
There’s also a practical element to the way we approach mixed materials, something that is especially important in our hospitality work. The leather tabletop, for example, adds a layer of durability while providing a smooth, stable surface so your drink or lamp stays level in a way that can be challenging with woven wicker alone. It’s a balance we always strive for at Boheme: beautiful materials, thoughtfully combined, with function at the forefront.
Bodie Pouf
Created for: The Sanderling Resort
Christie Ward: We love adding thoughtful details to upholstery. A self-welt and a blind tuft can completely transform a piece. We wanted to do something similar for Bodie but in a more modern way. The Bodie poufs were originally developed for a boutique coastal hotel, where we were inspired by the natural beauty of shells. They felt like the perfect opportunity to incorporate that inspiration in a very subtle way.
The shell motif is understated rather than literal, adding a layer of texture and character that we think brings a sense of sophistication to the design.
Dunmore Nightstand
Created for: A residence in the Bahamas
Staver Gray: These nightstands were first designed for a home with a highly sculptural architectural shell, which gave us the opportunity to really explore shape and proportion. The hexagonal form is both sculptural and functional; the smaller flat side sits neatly flush against the bed, making the shape particularly well-suited for use as a nightstand.
The woven colored wicker on each side emphasizes the geometry, with rectangular motifs playing with both negative space on the front and color blocking on the sides. On the knob and top band, circular motifs introduce a contrasting softness, creating tension against the angular form while also allowing us to play with scale.
Cisco Backgammon Table
Created for: A racquet club sitting room
Christie Ward: The racquet club this table was originally designed for was inspired by the golden age of leisure; think Slim Aarons, poolside cocktails, and long afternoons spent by the sea. We’ve since used the piece in a range of projects, from a South Florida members’ club to a Nantucket residence, and it seems to bring that same sense of relaxation wherever it goes. She’s a happy piece. And yes, we’re enthusiasts!
Outer Banks Diffuser
Created for: The Sanderling Resort
Christie Ward: The idea was to create pieces that feel whimsical and playful, without taking themselves too seriously.
Staver Gray: There’s something so exciting about seeing a design reinvented and interpreted in a completely new way. That said, I do love these in a series—down a hall, for example. And definitely in mixed colors.