A High-Degree Promotion, New Title, and Digital Rebrand: Change Is Underway at Patterson Flynn

Ever since Patterson Flynn Martin rebranded as Patterson Flynn in October last year, change has been afoot at the custom rug company (which is a subsidiary of the family-owned New York design house F. Schumacher & Co.). The latest development at the company, following the recent launch of a new collection and a website redesign? New creative leadership. Today, the company has announced the appointment of Pamela Marshall, a nearly 10-year veteran of Schumacher, to creative director.

In her new role, effective on January 31, Marshall will lead product design and development in addition to marketing and visual merchandising for the evolving firm. She will continue to report to Dara Caponigro, chief creative officer of F. Schumacher & Co., who adds, “I have no doubt that Pam, with a discerning eye and unrivaled technical knowledge, will be brilliant in her new role as we expand Patterson Flynn’s footprint within the luxury market.”

Marshall, who joined Schumacher in 2013 as design director before sliding into her role as vice president of design and product development the following year, cites beautifully-wrought rugs and exemplary customer service as hallmarks of Patterson Flynn since its founding in 1943. But now, she wants to “focus on bringing clarity to the voice of the brand.” Doing so, she adds, will entail “zooming in on the materials and processes that make what Patterson Flynn does so special and mirror this in new categories.”

Fans of the brand got a preview into those new categories last fall with the introduction of Patterson Flynn Wovens, a line launched in collaboration with Schumacher. In keeping with Patterson Flynn’s caliber for ultra-luxe materials, the label’s foray into fabric features virgin lamb wool and silk velvet. Another line is planned for this summer, with additional category releases in the works.

As the company steps into new creative territories and technical processes, a few brand standards remain. “People often associate technology with being forward-thinking, but there is a wonderful crossroads in finding ways to apply both old and new for innovative textiles,” says Marshall. Its work runs the technical spectrum, from preserving antique loom processes to experimenting with the performance qualities of modern engineering—always with a focus on natural and rarefied fibers.

How that thinking will weave through category expansions, only time will tell. More than one week out from her official start and Marshall already has her sights on Patterson Flynn being able to “provide products to own the entire room.” Though not one to consider trends, “the bedrock,” says Marshall, “is rather to produce rugs, textiles, and beyond that have a true presence in a room without overwhelming.” Leading with a hushed confidence, as the brand new creative director described it best.