Terry Crews has worn many hats throughout his career – from NFL player to actor and furniture designer.
This man of many talents has brought his unique vision and energy to the world of home furnishings, partnering with Bernhardt Design to create eye-catching and cozy pieces.
Crews’ journey into furniture design might seem unexpected, but it’s a natural extension of his lifelong passion for art and creativity.
His collection showcases a blend of comfort and style that mirrors his vibrant personality.
Each piece tells a story, drawing inspiration from unexpected sources and pushing the boundaries of what furniture can be.
In this post, we’ll examine how Terry Crews translates his artistic vision into furniture that is not only functional but also a statement of style and comfort for modern homes.
Terry Crews and Bernhardt Design
Terry Crews’ venture into furniture design stems from a desire to create pieces people enjoy using.
His partnership with Bernhardt Design has resulted in furniture that doesn’t compromise comfort or visual appeal.
Each item is thoughtfully crafted to enhance living spaces while providing a cozy, relaxing spot.
Crews draw inspiration from unexpected sources, infusing his designs with elements of ancient Egyptian culture reimagined for the modern world.
This unique approach has led to a collection that stands out in the crowded furniture market.
Terry Crews’ Design Philosophy
Background in Art and Design
Many people might not know that before Terry Crews became a household name as an actor, he was an artist at heart.
He studied graphic design and fine art, earning an art scholarship to Western Michigan University.
This foundation in visual arts has played a key role in shaping his approach to furniture design.
Considering his lifelong passion for creativity, crews’ transition from art to furniture design feels natural.
He sees furniture as another medium for artistic expression, allowing him to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Design Influences
Crews draw inspiration from various sources, but one of the most intriguing is his fascination with ancient Egyptian culture.
He asks himself, “What if Egyptian civilization had never disappeared and we were still living with pharaohs, but in a modern way?” This thought experiment led to unique design elements that set his furniture apart.
Crews’s personal experiences also shape His design style. His time in the NFL, acting career, and travels all contribute to a diverse pool of influences he taps into when creating new pieces.
Creative Process
Crews approaches furniture design like a storyteller or a set designer. He starts with a narrative or a concept and builds the design around that idea.
This process allows him to create pieces that are not just functional objects, but items with their own stories and personalities.
Innovation is key to Crews’ design process. He’s not afraid to push boundaries and challenge conventional ideas about what furniture should look like or how it should function.
For example, his Lilypad chair combines seating with a built-in table, reimagining how we interact with our furniture.
Crews also strongly emphasize sketching during his creative process.
He produces hundreds of drawings for each collection, refining his ideas and exploring possibilities before settling on the final designs.
This thoughtful, story-driven approach results in unique and meaningful furniture.
Each piece in the Terry Crews Collection is more than just a chair or a table—it’s a work of art with its own tale to tell.
Signature Furniture Pieces by Terry Crews
By combining quality materials with thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship, Terry Crews has created a furniture line that truly delivers on its promise of comfort and style.
These pieces aren’t just functional items – they’re statement pieces that can transform a space while providing the comfort and durability that users expect from high-end furniture.
Terry Crews’ furniture collection showcases pieces that exemplify his design philosophy. Let’s take a closer look at some standout items.
1. Becca Lounge Chair
The Becca is a fully upholstered lounge chair that embodies comfort without sacrificing style. Its soft curves invite you to sink in and relax.
Available in various sizes, the Becca adapts to different spaces and needs.
The chair’s versatility makes it suitable for both home and office settings. It can offer a cozy spot for reading or a stylish addition to a waiting area.
2. Elevation Modular System
Elevation is Crews’ answer to the need for flexible furniture in large, open spaces. This modular system of benches, ottomans, and tables can be arranged in countless configurations.
It’s particularly well-suited for building lobbies or open-plan offices where adaptability is key.
The system allows users to create seating areas that can be easily rearranged as needs change.
3. Ibis Sofa
Inspired by the sacred Egyptian ibis, this two or three-seater lounge is a true showstopper. Its gentle curve and extended tubular stainless steel frame create a striking silhouette.
The frame allows arm pillows to rest at either end, combining visual interest with practical comfort. The Ibis sofa proves that functional seating can also be a work of art.
4. Aire Bench
The Aire is a minimalist bench with an organic, curved shape. Its four-panel upholstered seat features saddle stitch detailing, adding a touch of craftsmanship to its sleek design.
The Aire can serve as additional seating in a living room, a statement piece in an entryway, or even a unique coffee table alternative.
Impact of Terry Crews’s Furniture Designs on Modern Furniture
Market Reception
Terry Crews’ entry into furniture design has been met with genuine interest from both design enthusiasts and the general public.
His collection debuted at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York, one of the largest and most influential design shows in the U.S.
This platform gave Crews’ designs immediate visibility in the industry.
The market has responded positively to the unique blend of artistry and functionality in Crews’ pieces.
Retailers like Twentieth, Hive Modern, and YLiving.com have picked up the collection, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
This distribution speaks to the commercial viability of Crews’ designs, showing that they resonate with both design professionals and homeowners.
Influence on Trends
Crews’ furniture makes waves in the design world by challenging conventional ideas about form and function.
His narrative-driven approach to design inspires other creators to think beyond mere utility when conceiving furniture pieces.
One notable trend that Crews’ work influences is the integration of multifunctionality in high-end furniture.
His Lilypad chair, which combines seating with a built-in table, exemplifies this trend.
We’re seeing more designers exploring ways to create furniture that serves multiple purposes without compromising on style.
Another trend Crews is pushing forward is using organic, flowing shapes in furniture design.
The curved forms of his Ibis sofa and Aire bench inspire a move away from rigid, boxy shapes towards more natural, inviting silhouettes.
Comparison with Other Celebrity-Designed Furniture Lines
Crews’ collection stands out for its originality and depth of thought compared to other celebrity-designed furniture lines.
Unlike some celebrity lines that put a famous name on existing designs, Crews is deeply involved in the creative process.
For instance, while fashion designer Virgil Abloh’s furniture designs for IKEA made a splash with their quirky takes on everyday items, Crews’ work feels more cohesive and considered.
His collection tells a story and has a clear design philosophy behind it.
Similarly, when compared to Pharrell Williams’ collaborations with Kartell and Domeau & Pérès, Crews’ designs feel less trend-driven and more timeless.
While Williams’ pieces often play with pop culture references, Crews draws inspiration from historical and personal narratives, resulting in furniture that feels both fresh and enduring.
That said, like successful celebrity designers such as Brad Pitt (whose collaboration with Frank Pollaro received critical acclaim), Crews brings a unique perspective to furniture design.
Conclusion
Terry Crews’ venture into furniture design has resulted in a collection embodying the fusion of style and comfort.
Each piece, from the inviting Becca chair to the striking Ibis sofa, showcases Crews’ commitment to creating visually appealing and genuinely comfortable furniture.
Crews’ journey from NFL player to actor to furniture designer is as unique as his creations.
This diverse background infuses his work with a fresh perspective, resulting in furniture that tells a story and challenges conventional design norms.
If you’re intrigued by Crews’ designs, consider visiting showrooms featuring his collections.
Experiencing these pieces firsthand lets you fully appreciate the thoughtful craftsmanship and innovative design that sets Terry Crews’ furniture apart in modern home furnishings.
