By Brian Coleman
Since 1929 Scalamandre has been weaving its own exquisite silks, wools, linens and cottons as well as laboriously hand making elaborate and ornate passementerie for some of the finest interiors in the country. Scalamandre has also had the unique role of being the major manufacturer of historical fabrics in the United States, and over the years has woven historically accurate textiles for restorations ranging from the Red Room of the White House to William Morris' home Kelmscott in England. At last, the story of this leading design and manufacturing house is told, and is introduced by personal reminiscences by Adriana Scalamandre. Visiting high-end homes across the country, designed by a fifteen different professionals, we see the lush, colorful furnishings, draperies, wall coverings and decorative moods that Scalamandre textiles produce. Ranging from Traditional, English Regency Contemporary, Neoclassical and Aesthetic and Cottage styles to Bungalow, Country French and Louis XV elegance, these rooms are rich with color and personality, always touting refinement and elegance. Designers include: Michael Simon, Joan Kruse Rogers, Cass Daley, Melinda Gray, Kent Kiesey, John Rolland, Nancy Serafini, Meredith Moriarti, Carol Knott, Betsy Best, Robert Bitter, and JZ Knight.