It’s flooring—and then some. Made for More.
Step inside the creative mind of David Oakey, Founder of David Oakey Designs, and the mastermind behind the new Dressed Lines™ carpet tile collection.
Dressed Lines Palette
Q. Dressed Lines reflects how classic design from the 1950s continues to resonate today. What inspired you to explore this time period?
David: My team is constantly attending trade shows, museums, and exhibitions. We look at what’s new in furniture, in upholstery, in fashion, and more. For this collection, we were inspired by the post-war era of modernism. For example, iconic furniture by Florence Knoll.
Q. Dressed Lines plays on the idea of longstanding leadership in design. How is this concept translated through flooring?
David: Before the war, interiors were very traditional, very ornate. Think oriental rugs and furniture with lots of intricate curves and detailing. After the war, you saw greater freedom to explore a more modern style.
We looked at classic design leaders from that time. Lucienne and Robin Day, Anni Albers. Charles and Ray Eames. They all broke the mold. And their works influenced our approach to texture and contrast.
Product/Color: Accent Hour carpet tile in Ebony and Comes Around carpet tile in Charcoal
Q. Can you expand a bit on the notion of “timelessness” in design?
David: When I think of timeless design, I think of styles with appeal that spans generations. What’s amazing is there are brands that are still showcasing designs they first launched 70 years ago. It’s intriguing how these post-war modern looks have such staying power. And as designers, we have to consider how the new designs we create complement these classic pieces. This was top-of-mind during the development of Dressed Lines.
Q. How can designers incorporate Dressed Lines into their projects?
David: We created Dressed Lines to address the versatile needs of our customers. At one end of the spectrum are very subtle, subdued styles that work best in open areas. At the other end are bolder, more complicated designs that make for great accent or focal points. And of course, those in between can go either way. Each of the styles in the collection feature complementary colors, so you can mix and match as needed.
Q. Do you have a favorite style within Dressed Lines?
David: That’s like trying to pick who's your favorite child! If I had to choose one style to highlight, it’d probably be Accent Hour. It’s the boldest style in the collection – really the complete opposite of subtle. And it’s probably the most fun one of the collection.
Product/Color: Angular Times carpet tile in Charcoal and Heirloom LVT in Canvas