Jeffrey Bernett

With his commitment to function and simplicity – and a singular attention to manufacturing detail – Jeffrey Bernett has won accolades in a range of disciplines, including architecture, interior design, residential and office furniture, lighting, graphic design, transportation design and fashion. His very first furniture collection, presented at the 1996 International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York, received the Editor’s Award for “Best of Show.”

Bernett initially entered college to pursue a degree in business, then altered his course to undertake studies in furniture design in England. Along the way, he deepened his understanding of mechanics and manufacturing processes. The combination of design, business and manufacturing expertise has contributed to Bernett’s stunning success as a multi-disciplinary consultant. In 2002, he established Consultants for Design Strategy (CDS) in New York.

In addition to Design Within Reach, Bernett has worked with top American furniture companies like Bernhardt and Knoll, as well as European manufacturers of furniture and household products such as B&B Italia, Boffi, Cappellini and Ligne Roset. He consults on custom furnishings and fixtures for projects such as the Michael Kors flagship store in New York and ergonomic passenger seating for Northwest Airlines.

Armed with knowledge gained from his design of comfortable in-flight seating for Northwest Airlines, Bernett developed a streamlined lounge chair for Design Within Reach that reclines with a slight seated push and supports the body in comfort from head to toe. With none of the bulky assertiveness of a traditional reclining armchair, the Flight Recliner (2005) has a contemporary visual lightness suited to today’s homes. It was such a success that Bernett and DWR have continued an ongoing collaboration, introducing the Liege Desk and Parcel Sofa Collection in 2006.

What inspires him? Bernett acknowledges three great passions – sports, speed and problem-solving – all of which require self-determination, focus and discipline. He also draws upon travel to broaden his experience of culture. “Whether it’s for work or private purposes, I visit one place a year where I’ve never been before. I take great pleasure in experiencing the culture of that place and absorbing it.” *

* From Interior Design, “Thinking About Tomorrow” by Sheila Kim, December 1, 2003