Bernhardt names Summer Thornton as new designer in residence

LENOIR, N.C. — Bernhardt, a family-owned manufacturer of upscale case goods and upholstered furniture, is relaunching its designer in residence with interior design talent Summer Thornton for April 2022.

Known for her modern maximalist viewpoint, Thornton will highlight design with an exclusive reinterpretation of Bernhardt’s gallery and select furnishings.

Bernhardt’s designer in residence debuts April 2-6 during High Point Market and will be celebrated in conjunction with the Hearst Design Collection (Elle Décor, House Beautiful and Veranda).

“The only guideline for Bernhardt’s designer in residence is that there are no guidelines. This is where imagination and creation are celebrated and revered,” said Gregory Heller, vice president of merchandising for residential case goods. “Summer is known for her fearless use of color, pattern and texture, as well as an ability to bring a fresh point of view to traditional design.”

Chicago-based, Thornton has been included on the list 1stdib’s 50, Luxe Gold List, Traditional Home’s 10 New Trads and Sotheby’s 20 Designers to Watch. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, House Beautiful, The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors and several others.