Unpacked: Peter Gomez on Zoffany and Michael S. Smith

By Gemma Sudlow, EVP, Group Commercial and Marketing

Michael S. Smith needs no introduction: his timeless and intellectually rigorous interiors are only one facet of his ingenuity and prowess. Following the recent launch of his new fabric range with Zoffany, we sat down with Peter Gomez, lead designer at Sanderson Design Group, to discuss the thought process behind this beautiful collection that balances heritage, innovation and sustainability. 

Gemma Sudlow: Peter, this collection brings both a sense of historicity and modern technological know-how to a fabric collection. What was the genesis of the conversation with Michael S. Smith? How did it all begin?

Peter Gomez: It actually began with Michael approaching us. He noticed a distinct gap in the market that he was incredibly keen to fill. From there, the collection grew out of a constant, fluid dialogue with him. Through these collaborative conversations, we evolved a unique combination of print and weave that beautifully marries a historic aesthetic with modern performance. The goal was to create versatile, outdoor fabrics that look and feel like an antique document. It has been a process of constant interpretation and progress.

GS: I want to start with the Filigree Bellagio Stripe — how did you work with Michael to select the archival fabrics? How long was this process and what was memorable about it?

PG: The collection essentially started as an investigative piece. As the conversation developed, Michael delved deep into our archives, focusing closely on lightweight woven structures. For us as designers, the most memorable part was seeing exactly how an archival piece can adapt to the needs of today. For instance, with the Filigree Bellagio Stripe, we took the colours from an original indigo print and translated them entirely through weave. It became a beautiful exercise in modernisation and archival evolution.

GS: In addition to the historical references, I was intrigued to learn that many of the composition of these fabrics include recycled materials — was this a conscious choice to consider sustainable elements to the end-product?

PG: We focus heavily on the impact of our materials, which is why we turned to recycled polyester, as it yields one of the lowest carbon footprints. We paid close attention to the relationship between recycled yarns and performance capabilities relative to how the fabrics will actually be used. In fact, these materials are made to a higher specification than standard nylon, and the finishing techniques over the past few years have upgraded significantly to support this. The longevity of the fabric, thanks to its innate durability and strength, is also key to reducing waste. The collection’s prints are also all digital, which is far more energy efficient a process than other methods.

GS: Lily Stripe brings together one of spring’s earliest gifts and immortalises it for all seasons. Though French inspired, to what extent does it also reference the long and distinguished history of chintz production from its earliest days in 16th century India to now?

PG: It’s all about capturing the past while allowing the design to speak about the story of chintz, all the way from its origins to the present day. The deep relationship between nature and plants is firmly rooted in chintz, and Lily Stripe bridges that historical gap. This pattern, with its artfully arranged lilies of the valley, celebrates the style of early block techniques in a unique way, where traditional print meets the future to bring history forward.

GS: Our mantra here at Cadogan Tate is Everything, Handled with Care. What distinguishes the process of making and launching a new collection like this at Sanderson Design Group?

PG: For us, it comes down to absolute due diligence, care, and attention to detail. This philosophy dictates the entire chain, from the initial sketched concept to the specific mills we choose to work with. Because of this rigor, the resulting fabrics have a lower impact and superior handle than many other performance collections, allowing our designers to make the most responsible choices possible.

Click HERE to view the full collection.

Click HERE to learn more about Cadogan Tate’s Interior Design Services.