Ralph Lauren, a name synonymous with American luxury and style, has long been celebrated for his masterful approach to cross-cultural design. In the heart of Milan, Ralph Lauren’s headquarters—a stunning Rationalist-style palazzo—evokes the ambiance of an exclusive private club. Last spring, during Milan Design Week, this remarkable building hosted the debut of the Modern Driver collection from Ralph Lauren Home.
In the courtyard, a classic Jaguar convertible elegantly showcased its allure, while upstairs, redwood-paneled walls reminiscent of a Manhattan office set the tone for a collection steeped in sophistication. These eagerly awaited pieces are now slated to roll out this fall.
Ralph Lauren, aside from being a pioneer in fashion and home design, is also a globally renowned collector of vintage automobiles. His extraordinary collection—featuring Bugattis, Ferraris, and Porsches—has been exhibited in prestigious museums worldwide. Partnering for the first time with Haworth Lifestyle Design, Lauren drew upon his passion for cars to create a collection that celebrates their aesthetic and functional beauty.
“My car collection represents the epitome of functional artistry. Most of them were handmade, designed for speed, with every detail meticulously considered,” Lauren remarked.
One standout piece, the RL-CF1 cantilever chair, takes direct inspiration from Lauren’s prized McLaren F1. Crafted from 71 layers of carbon fiber—the same material used in Formula 1 race cars—this chair is a centerpiece both in Lauren’s Manhattan apartment and his Madison Avenue office.
The Modern Driver collection seamlessly blends Ralph Lauren’s automotive influences with home furnishings. Walnut-brown leather seating extends across dining chairs and side tables, creating a cohesive yet versatile lineup. The Ellis bed, featuring a base of rosewood and polished stainless steel with a saddle-leather headboard, draws inspiration from the interior of a 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster.
The collection also includes coffee tables, side tables, dressers, and armchairs, utilizing classic car materials such as mahogany, rosewood, polished stainless steel, and premium leather and wool fabrics.
Accessories in the collection also nod to automotive design. From speedometer-inspired dials to perforated leather cushions and the Beckford table lamp—its metal mesh detailing mimics the grille of Lauren’s cherished Bentley Blower—every piece tells a story. Reflecting on his collection, Lauren remarked, “Cars are like my children; it’s impossible to choose a favorite.”
Ralph Lauren’s Modern Driver collection is more than a furniture series—it’s a celebration of design, craftsmanship, and the enduring beauty of his passion for classic cars.
Sourced from Our China Media Partner 77° Global Furnishings Media.