Dressed up or dressed down, Thomas O'Brien's new line for Reed & Barton is suitable for any occasion.
By: Aimée Morgan
Q: In creating your line with Reed & Barton, what qualities were most important to you?
A: I am a collector at heart and wanted to produce quality products that might be passed down through generations of a family. I reinterpreted classic motifs, juxtaposing them against more modern elements. Most importantly, while each line has its own style, every pattern and its accessories may be mixed and matched, so that a couple can create a table that is uniquely their own.
Q: Tell us about your four dinnerware collections and what makes them special.
A: In the design process, I strive to blend traditional and modern, masculine and feminine and casual and elegant. Each of my lines—Marielle, Tiago, Tilden Lace and Elissa—reflect these qualities differently. Tiago is inspired by my collection of 1940s and 50s Russell Wright dinnerware; it is sleek and modern in shape, yet it has traditionally elegant touches, like light platinum banding to contrast with the rich, dark colors. Elissa is classic bone china with a subtle retro motif of white oval dots on the inner rim. It’s classic with a crisp, modern flair.
Q: Your collection has been called fine casual. Can you explain the meaning and how it relates to couples?
A: Nowadays, many couples store their china in a cabinet, pulling it out only for special occasions. I created tableware and accessories that have the sophistication and tradition of your grandmother’s china, yet are pieces you could use every day. With my collection, meals don’t have to be elegant or casual—they really can be a lovely combination of both.
Q: Your barware line, Darby, is extensive. What was the source of your inspiration?
A: It was definitely my collection of vintage barware that I’ve amassed over the years. Each piece is substantial in weight, and the deep horizontal and vertical cuts suggest a plaid design. The barware is intended to coordinate with each of the four dinnerware lines, and indeed has features drawn from certain patterns. These subtle similarities allow for a dynamic table that’s not too matchy-matchy.
Q: What is your favorite wedding gift to give to friends?
A: I like to choose something from their registry, like a set of wine goblets, and then personalize it with a bottle of wine that I know they enjoy. It’s a way to give them a gift you know they want while still adding a special touch of your own.
Gallery
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From left: Elissa collection, Tiago dinnerware and flatware, and Tiago and Cynthia accessory pieces, all by Thomas O'Brien for Reed & Barton. For more information, please visit reedandbarton.com or the Aero store; 212-966-1500.
Thomas’s Tips
- Create balance by incorporating elements you both like. If your tableware pattern is feminine, use accessories with strong, clean lines.
- If you are overwhelmed by all the options at a store, make a list of what you absolutely don’t like. Build off each mutual decision. Before you know it, your registry will be complete.
- Compromise is key! Change one element, like the shape, and the piece will have a completely different feel, even if it has the same pattern.
- Nothing is set in stone. You can always go back to the store or the website and make changes.
Photography: (still life) courtesy of Reed & Barton; (portrait) courtesy of Laura Resen.
