Design
Sara Hayat Design
Fleur Chair in wood
The chair was inspired by Hayat’s memories of growing up in Peshawar, Pakistan, the “City of Flowers.”
Image courtesy of: Sara Hayat Design
For Sara Hayat, design is in her DNA. The Pakistan-born and raised founder of Sara Hayat Design has always been surrounded by furniture designers and artisans. Her family’s company, M. Hayat & Bros. was founded in the 1870’s; it has produced luxury furniture for everyone from royalty to John F. Kennedy. It was Hayat’s great-grandfather’s entrepreneurial passion and skill that pushed the company to become one of the leading furniture crafters in the country. Specifically, M. Hayat & Bros. was known for manufacturing high-quality antique reproductions.
Initially though, Hayat attended University of Minnesota and studied Economics; she says she was interested in what drives human behavior and how people make decisions under varying circumstances. A successful career in finance as a trader working with futures and crypto currency ensued. Nevertheless, during the pandemic, Hayat’s love of design and her strong familial ties to design made her ponder (courtesy of Sara Hayat Designs), “the importance of space.” Before long, Sara Hayat Design was founded.
The Bevel sofa in Royal Blue.
Image courtesy of: Sara Hayat Design
Now based in Colorado, Hayat quickly decided that creating made-to-order furniture was her calling. The debut collection included three tables: coffee, dining, and writing, in addition to sofas and creative modular seating. The pieces (courtesy of Luxe Source) “have their genesis in detailed drawings, are hand-built by her family’s longstanding artisans in Peshawar, Pakistan.”
The Erete is a mid-century modern marvel. Courtesy of the 19th-century, the barrel chair “remains a study in Old World Charm and a timeless piece of self-expression.” Functionality wins with this piece as the extra back support and ergonomic design provides ideal posture alignment. The deep-set and cushioned back is remarkably comfortable!
Image courtesy of: Sara Hayat Design
Hayat spent a lot of time studying joinery (the aspect of woodworking that involves joining together pieces of wood) and detailing techniques as per her family’s archival catalogues. These familial treasures, along with researching some of the world’s greatest designers, including Oscar Niemeyer and Pierre Paulin, helped Hayat design a perfect initial collection.
Hayat was adamant that each part of each piece was completely thought-out. As per the designer’s web site, “From the materials used to joinery techniques, to how different elements of the piece will come together, we wanted to make sure they serve their intended purpose in your home.” Those purchasing Hayat’s pieces will be in esteemed company as there is a lot of familiarity between Hayat’s designs and what M. Hayat & Bros. designed for King George V and President John F. Kennedy.
The T3 Sofa comes in a number of neutral colors and different fabrics such as velvet, leather, or suede.
Image courtesy of: Robb Report
One of Hayat’s most interesting designs is the “T3” modular sofa. The geometric-shaped sofa consists of several padded pieces, each is made up of smaller, connected cubes.
The modular blocks that make up the sofa can be easily separated and rearranged. Interestingly, when pulled apart, each individual modular piece can function independently. When put together, the pieces form a substantial sofa that measures twelve feet by three feet. Hayat hopes that people who purchase this innovative piece will be creative in using it.
The Loya Chaise
“I wanted to make a chaise that not only aesthetically looks majestic but is also extremely comfortable and roomy. The curves in this piece provide ample lumbar support. Wrapped in an extremely soft and luxurious cushioning, it is the perfect afternoon place to read a book or take a nap.”
Image courtesy of: Sara Hayat Design
The designer, although relatively newly-minted, has already received her fair share of well-deserved accolades. In particular, Hayat received the A’Designer Award Bronze winner in the furniture design category. Sara Hayat Design already has ten design copyrights… and more copyright designs are pending.
With the goal of creating pieces that affect human behavior, Hayat understands better than most the huge impact that furniture has on our everyday lives. Perhaps this quote by the designer herself sums it up perfectly, “My mother always believed that you should surround yourself with items that make you happy.” Sara, you are certainly making your mother happy!
