Close Hide is a specialized technique in leather processing and design where animal hides are meticulously treated to maintain their natural characteristics while being transformed into a durable, high-quality material for design applications. This method emphasizes preserving the hide's original texture, grain patterns, and surface features, distinguishing it from heavily processed leather treatments. The process involves carefully cleaning and preparing the hide while keeping it as close to its natural state as possible, allowing the material to retain its authentic appearance and unique markings. In furniture and interior design, Close Hide techniques have gained prominence for their ability to showcase the raw beauty and organic qualities of leather, making each piece inherently unique. The method requires extensive expertise in hide selection, preservation, and finishing, as practitioners must understand both traditional craftsmanship and modern conservation methods. This approach has become increasingly relevant in contemporary sustainable design practices, as it typically involves fewer chemical treatments and processing steps compared to conventional leather finishing methods. The technique has evolved to meet modern design standards while respecting traditional leather-working principles, finding applications in luxury furniture, architectural elements, and high-end accessories. The A' Design Award competition has recognized numerous innovative applications of Close Hide techniques in furniture and interior design categories, highlighting its significance in contemporary design practice. The method's emphasis on maintaining natural characteristics aligns with growing consumer interest in authentic, sustainable materials and transparent production processes.
leather processing, sustainable design, natural materials, texture preservation
CITATION : "Lucas Reed. 'Close Hide.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=480066 (Accessed on March 16, 2025)"
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