English Francis Sultana designs a Haute Couture bed for Savoir
Discover the inspiration behind Francis Sultana’s unique design for Savoir, crafted in London fusing the finest, natural materials with an element of Haute Couture drama.
As one of the most sought-after interior and furniture designers, Francis Sultana is known for his unique ability to merge different styles and eras of design. Working across both residential and private spaces, his studio creates some of the most extraordinary designs. He is one of only a handful of UK designers to be featured in Architectural Digest’s most coveted AD100 list.
Alongside his multiple international interior projects, his atelier produces annual collections of bespoke furniture and textiles. Francis’ own work is known for his use of noble materials such as bronze, rock crystal, straw marquetry and bespoke fabrics. Additionally, the studio also strives to support artisanal skills and techniques from around the UK and Europe throughout its work.
Our mutual passion for natural and rare materials influenced a collaboration from which emerged one of our most unique designs. Inspired by Elizabethan ruffs and collars, the ‘Louis’ bed elegantly marries traditional tweed with vibrant, joyful tones. Whilst the fluid shape of the headboard nods at organic Art Deco shapes. The result is a wonderfully inspiring design, which instantly becomes the focal point of the room.
I didn’t want to design a standard headboard, a ruff adds a wonderful sense of fashionable opulence and drama.
Paired with our iconic Nº2 bed set, originally created for the Savoy Hotel in London, the headboard elegantly towers over the bed. Hand-upholstered in a bespoke fabric by Francis Sultana, the traditional tweed perfectly juxtaposes the organic shape of the headboard. The choice of fabric is perhaps the most unique element of this design. Two shades of green are weaved with a complementing gold shimmer and a contrasting bold black colour. These intricate details elevate this design, adding a moment of Haute Couture drama.
[the Louis bed is] named after both King Louis XIII of France, who wore the ruff with great aplomb, and Louis Majorelle, an Art Nouveau French furniture designer who devised some amazing beds for his own house.
