Designer Billy Cotton knows a thing or two about American design: A graduate of the Pratt Institute, Billy’s goal is to take the things that make our everyday lives easier but elevate them in order to bring joy and functionality back to our spaces. It’s no wonder, then, that home retailer West Elm just dropped a new collaboration with the designer, consisting of elevated basics such as furniture, tableware, and home decor items we use on a daily basis.
'At its core, American design is about a new way of living and thinking,' says Billy Cotton. 'How do we inspire people with the simplest of things?' The answer, it seems, lies in neutral tones and simple silhouettes, such as a modular, geometric lamp that lends a soft glow to any space, or an armless chair that provides extra lumbar support.
'I dug deeply into this idea of American modernism and what it means to be an American designer,' he explains. 'When we started the West Elm collection, we had just come out of a dark period and I was thinking of the sun and brightness.' Think minimalist and retro, but with a modern twist.
Billy Cotton x West Elm Collaboration
While many of the items in the Billy Cotton x West Elm collaboration are simple, they each have a unique feature to them that brings about a stylish addition, and focuses on form and function equally. I’ve picked my favorites from this Danish design trend-inspired collection, but you can also view the entire collaboration at West Elm.
This stylish LED table lamp uses two opposing geometric shapes to create one form-focused, unexpected option that’ll command all the attention on your dresser.
Influenced by the form of contemporary modular furniture, this armless chair features a curved back for extra lumbar support.
These whimsical porcelain bowls take their inspiration from oyster shells, and work perfectly to store little trinkets like keys and earrings.
This set of four metal coasters comes equipped with a simple base for storage, and the perforated design allows for minimalism with an unexpected twist.
Made with kiln-dried wood for extra durability and lacquered for that glam factor, this modern version of a coffee table is neutral enough for any living room.
These chic monochromatic vases serve as the perfect simple base for your favorite rainbow blooms, allowing their colors and textures to shine through.
The smooth enamel finish on this side table keeps it classic, while the minimalist look and simple lines allow a sturdy base for your favorite items. It’s a calming look for a cozy bedroom.
These chic, modern metal glass hurricanes add an extra dose of glow to your home, and are an on-trend way to display your favorite candles.
This dining table’s pedestal base and sculptural form makes it ideal for small-space dining rooms, and it frees up leg room for chairs, too.
How many pieces does the Billy Cotton x West Elm collection consist of?
The Billy Cotton x West Elm collection consists of 25 pieces: furniture, tableware, and smaller decor items that Billy believes helps to elevate our everyday lives. Choose from larger pieces such as a modular sofa or a sleek, sculptural dining table, or look to Cotton’s smaller items, such as shell-shaped porcelain containers and a durable, etched glass pitcher.
Billy Cotton’s West Elm collaboration is ideal for those who love minimalist decor, but even those who love a bit more pizazz in their living space will also find joy in the simple details Cotton has made sure to include in his collection. It’s all the basics you could require in a home – just with a bit of an upgrade.
