OUR MISSION
Our mission is to unite the world’s best weavers and craftsman with today’s most respected designers to enrich the lives of those who create, as well as those who experience sanctuary through natural design.
OUR BEGINNING
Sometimes, a seemingly random event unlocks a part of us to reveal a personal truth and provides the catalyst to discover unrealized potential and passion. Such a revelation was experienced in 1998 by Hartmann&Forbes’ founder Michael Jones.
WHILE TRAVELING ON BUSINESS as a trade merchant in Southeast Asia, Michael happened upon artisans practicing the ancient tradition of handweaving. Mesmerized by the flurry of shuttles among wefts and warps, he observed hand-prepared native fibers being woven into exceptional textiles. He was transported to another time when there was an unspoken reverence for earth, craft and community.
AS THE WESTERN WORLD HURRIED about on the other side of the planet, Michael saw the shared benefits of bringing the two worlds together. He considered how the rare beauty of these weaves might spark the imagination of designers to create spaces that exude the intangible, spiritual quality of handcrafted organic materials. Michael felt compelled to bridge these two communities and, in so doing, preserve the legacy of timeless weaving traditions.
Although the brand has become synonymous with world-class quality, luxury and environmental sustainability, Michael has never lost sight of his vision of a holistic, collective experience. Hartmann&Forbes has created a community that's proven to be mutually beneficial and sustainable. One indicator of Michael’s successful business model came in 2008, when Hartmann&Forbes was recognized by Inc. magazine as one of the 500 Fastest Growing Companies.
TO CONTINUE ON THE PATH of expansion and innovation, Michael has imparted his progressive design philosophy and passion for excellence to a team of talented designers, artisans and managers. The company remains committed to environmental stewardship by handcrafting the highest quality custom products of only the finest natural materials from sustainable ecosystems.
SHARING MICHAEL’S VISION, the team he’s assembled understands the major reason for the company’s existence—to produce industry-best, natural, handwoven products, such as the company’s signature custom-loomed, woven-to-size windowcoverings. From the farmers and weavers in distant lands to the American craftsman, who skillfully finish the products, to showroom partners and designer clients, Hartmann&Forbes enriches lives by preserving traditions and honoring craftsmanship. It’s this mission-based attitude that pulses in the heart of Hartmann&Forbes.