In Hong Kong, where designer furniture is as commonplace as designer clothing, the challenge lies not in finding the most talked-about new piece, but in finding something rare.
Leslie Kabla and Alexis Dupont hope to fill that gap with the launch of HWD Gallery, a new platform that makes highly coveted European design classics by the likes of Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Pierre Jeanneret slightly more accessible, alongside other collectible objects, books, and art. "Our goal is to promote collectible design in Hong Kong — we want to bring visibility and create a desire for these unique pieces," Leslie says.
Previously based in Paris and New York, Leslie and Alexis worked in the fields of art, luxury design, and architecture in the past, from which they’ve drawn expertise in putting together a venture they felt would be of interest to Hong Kong’s growing pool of design enthusiasts.
But, rather than set up a brick-and-mortar space, the pair will organise a series of exhibitions and events in various locations, each time mounting a full-fledged showcase of furniture, décor, and works of art. “We love the idea of having a long-term inventory while having seasonal exhibitions, publishing books, and organising events such as talks, dinners, and collaborations.”
Leslie and Alexis kicked off the opening of their gallery with their first selling exhibition, “The Collector’s Den,” which runs through Friday, April 12. In putting together inspiring shows, their aim is “to put collectible design in the spotlight and within reach in Hong Kong.”
“Our clients are always surprised to see that we actually use our furniture,” Leslie says. “Those armchairs are meant to be comfortable, and yes — you should definitely put flowers in that 1960s ceramic!”
The pieces they’ve decided to bring into Hong Kong are difficult to come by, more so to source locally. While midcentury furniture from European design heroes like Charlotte Perriand, Pierre Jeanneret, Le Corbusier, René Gabriel, Guillerme Et Chambron, Roger Capron, and Vallauris are frequently photographed, you won't often encounter authentic pieces in boutiques, unless you're really lucky. Beyond these pieces’ obvious aesthetic value is collectability — all were designed and manufactured in the early 20th century, most of them iconic of its designer's work.
The gallery’s next exhibition is in the works and planned for October 2019. In the meantime, pieces can be viewed online or at HWD Gallery's storage space in Hong Kong. Leslie and Alexis will turn their attention back to their consultation services, guiding clients in various stages of decorating, from sourcing to finalising. Says the duo, “We’re working closely with local collectors and interior designers to help them source and acquire the right pieces for their collection.”
Scroll down to see some of the pieces in HWD Gallery’s current inventory:
“The Collector’s Den” runs through April 12 at 41 Sai Street, Sheung Wan; to book a meeting, e-mail design@hwdgallery.com; hwdgallery.com.
Photography courtesy of HWD Gallery
