Celebrating the imperfect beauty of natural materials

The philosophy brings a sense of freedom and peace through learning to find beauty in imperfection. It encourages the idea of accepting life and all that it encompasses in its organic form. By recognising the simple idea that “nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect”, we rid of expectations and find beauty within.

Craftsmanship embodies this philosophy. We choose to find beauty in the smallest of details through the unhurried method of crafting by hand. Each element, cared for and lovingly refined, reflects the very idea of wabi-sabi. Rather than enforcing a standardised approach, we focus on embracing the flaws and peculiarities of the ingredients that make our products. Because every bed is handmade from inception to completion, no two can be the same. The very idea that this is made for you, and no one else, is quite special.

So, against the fast pace of the modern world, we continue to honour the practises which have been passed down for generations. Although it certainly takes longer, creating a product by hand gives it character. And without it, beauty wouldn’t exist. That’s something mass-producing simply cannot replicate. As the third teaching of wabi-sabi says:

Undoubtedly, nature is where this philosophy is reflected in Western culture. Plants, flowers, and wilderness are all an expression of wabi-sabi. Though not entirely untouched by the modern world’s pursuit of perfection, their natural charisma remains a universal symbol of beauty.

At Savoir, we always favour natural ingredients and ensure they’re at the heart of each of our products. The sumptuous cotton that makes our bed linen is harvested in the valley of the Nile Delta River in Egypt. The South American horse hair lends its temperature-regulating properties to our mattresses and toppers. While exquisite wool, leather and linen that adorn our headboards, are selected because of their unique imperfections. Meet the materials that celebrate the philosophy of wabi-sabi.

Linen offers a great range of unique properties. From breathability and moisture-wicking to its excellent durability, thanks to the strength of its fibres. While these properties make it the perfect textile for clothing, its unique aesthetic also makes it an elegant choice for upholstery.

The tiny slubs dotted around the surface of this fabric are the organic, raw texture of linen. It’s what gives it its rare and pared-back appearance, which distinguishes it from other fabrics. Particularly because of those gentle markings, which resemble charming freckles, no two pieces of linen can be the same. Altogether, the combination of its durability and lightweight feel wonderfully nods at its organic nature.

Our Holly Design is upholstered in Mark Alexander’s signature linen. Its delicate, stonewashed effect and matt finish add a gentle feel to the rectangular shape of the headboard. The fusion of the intricate and textural material against the simple shape of the headboard creates a calming effect. Inarguably, this is where the imperfect beauty of organic materials comes from – their ability to transform and elevate.

Equally adored, wool and cashmere are favoured for their sumptuous softness and versatility. This is thanks to the incredible array of textures, colours, and depths they’re available in. When blended, wool and cashmere create an almost otherworldly fabric. Whilst being the most comfortable and warm blend, it also holds a marvellous feeling of decadence. Its appearance and slight sheen, which delicately reflect even the slightest glimmer of light, are all natural properties of wool.

The organic spirit of this fabric is celebrated in our design with Tom Faulkner, a renowned British furniture designer. The headboard of this design combines the simple shape of a cloud with a unique blend of wool and ramie fabric by Svensson. Also known as China grass, ramie is one of the oldest, natural fibres. Together, the matt texture of wool balanced with the shimmering ramie fibre creates an unusual, characteristic effect.

Similarly, the Amelia Design is upholstered in a unique, directionless wool fabric. Its smooth and consistent surface beautifully fuses the modernity of this design with a classic element that wool brings. The hidden depths of the fabric, which are revealed as the viewer’s perspective changes, are unique to organic wool. The finish of this fabric can be compared to a melange effect, that resembles a blend of complementing colours. When combined with an unusual and contemporary shape, wool adds an organic element of calmness.

Leather gained its popularity in the early 1900, becoming the symbol of strength and rebellion for decades. In the late 60s, it began to appear in interior design, adding an unexpected edge and a sense of drama to furniture. Its timeless look and soft feel create a paradoxical element of masculinity. What is most noteworthy about leather, is its unusual structure. Because of the natural origin, it showcases a marvellous array of markings, dimples, and ridges. Altogether, these details add character and charisma, which cannot be replicated in inorganic materials.

Our Winston design is upholstered in Whistler’s cognac leather. Its distinctive colour brings to light the delicate, natural lines that run across the material. The whimsical effect of these resembles storytelling scars, which in the ancient Japanese art form is celebrated as Kintsugi.

Undeniably beautiful, these materials proudly showcase their imperfections. When combined with a carefully handcrafted bed, they celebrate wabi-sabi, creating an antidote to the modern world.