INROADS INTO EUROPE: GROWING OUR GLOBAL PRESENCE
La Samaritaine, women's shoes and accessories department
Creative Matters’ growth in Europe began with a landmark project — creating 19 carpets for La Samaritaine, the iconic Parisian department store’s grand reopening in 2021. Recognizing our exceptional range of handtufted and woven axminster carpet, Yabu Pushelberg chose us to enhance their prestigious project. This marked the beginning of our commercial entry into the European market.
Following the successful completion of this project, Creative Matters took a significant and strategic step forward by opening a European satellite office spearheaded by Clémence Hardelay, Director of Design Europe. Establishing a European office was an essential progression for our company, allowing us to enhance our client service capabilities and effectively cater to our expanding European clientele.
NEW ROOTS IN BRUSSELS
Clémence Hardelay, Director of Design Europe & Laurie François, Senior Textile Designer
This Spring, our European design team has grown following the official opening of our new office in the heart of Brussels. We recently welcomed to the team Laurie François, Senior Textile Designer, who for the past 8 years has been developing exceptional materials in Belgium. Laurie is providing dedicated support on European projects and product development directly from our Brussels office.
By having a physical presence in Europe, we will be able to foster closer relationships with interior designers, and industry leaders in the hospitality sector. Our Brussels office serves as a creative hub, allowing us to participate actively in major European design events, exhibitions, and conferences. This proximity has not only heightened our brand's recognition but has also enabled us to develop designs with the latest trends and innovations in the European market, ensuring that our work remains at the forefront of the industry.
BUILDING OUR EUROPEAN PRESENCE
Creative Matters’ exhibit at Rendez-vous de la Matière
We have been actively engaged in key trade shows and exhibitions such as Paris Design Week, Rendez-vous de la Matière, Collectible, Carpet Diem, Milan Design Week, and Hostys Connect. Participating in these events has allowed us to showcase our innovative designs and connect with industry professionals. Clémence shares, “Creative Matters will now have an even larger stage to interact with our peers from an artistic perspective, creating pieces that challenge the concepts of traditional design, whilst also allowing us to do face-to-face business with industry leaders and securing high-end, multi-floor covering projects.” These experiences have further solidified our reputation within the European design community.
STRONG TIES IN EUROPE AND BEYOND
Redoux Passager exhibit at Paris Design Week
Being physically present in Europe, we can better understand the needs and preferences of our clients, providing real-time problem-solving and personalized service. Clémence shares further, “The most significant milestone for our European branch has been the establishment of an exceptional reputation in the high-end luxury retail sector. This achievement underscores our commitment to excellence and innovation in design.”
(L-R) LOMA’s Théa Schiffers and Johan Brunel, Creative Matters’ Clémence Hardelay and Laurie François at Milan Design Week
“As a result, our work is consistently sought after, and our influence is extending into the Asia-Pacific region and the United Arab Emirates every season. Our European office not only reinforces our brand's prestige in the luxury segment but also serves as a pivotal gateway for global growth and continued success.”
NEW ADVENTURES AHEAD
Creative Matters’ exhibit at Carpet Diem
As we continue to grow our presence in Europe, we’re excited about new projects, extending our expertise in hospitality, residential projects, and luxury yachts. We look forward to applying our innovative techniques and meticulous craftsmanship to create striking floor coverings that make an impression. "As we forge ahead with our expanding portfolio across this hemisphere and beyond, I urge everyone to look out for more exciting projects from Creative Matters. We're just getting started," says Clémence.