Discovering The Lotus Collection: A Bay Area Destination for Outstanding Antique Textiles
Studio Notes No. 005
The Lotus Collection is a true treasure for the Bay Area design community. Founded by Kathleen Taylor, the gallery is one of the most respected destinations for antique textiles in Northern California. As a San Francisco–based interior design firm, we feel fortunate to have such a rare resource close at hand. Kathleen has spent decades curating an extraordinary collection of vintage and antique pieces from across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe — each carrying history, artistry, and an unmistakable sense of authenticity.
At ABD STUDIO, we’ve had the pleasure of sourcing from The Lotus Collection for several projects, and each time, the textiles have added a distinct layer of character to our designs. One favorite example is an English 19th century needlepoint bell pull in a pink ribbon pattern, which we reimagined as a wide decorative tape trim for the Primary Bedroom bed lumbar pillow in our Nantucket Island project. For another project, we transformed an early 20th century English Arts and Crafts velvet appliquéd and embroidered panel — a stylized floral on an off-white ground — into three small lumbar pillows that now rest against a modern tiger velvet sofa. Most recently, an English printed linen flame stitch Bergello design from the 1950s became two tailored pillows for a bed, bringing vibrant pattern and historic charm into a fresh context.
Because of their age and delicacy, antique textiles benefit from thoughtful placement and expert handling. We recommend using them in areas not exposed to continuous direct, bright sunlight and collaborating with skilled fabricators who know how to work with delicate and valuable materials. With the right care, the textiles found at The Lotus Collection can be reimagined into new forms while preserving their integrity and history.
These projects exemplify what makes Kathleen’s work so invaluable: she offers not just beautiful materials, but textiles with provenance and soul. When incorporated into interiors, they don’t just decorate — they tell stories, spark conversation, and add a sense of timelessness that mass-produced fabrics simply can’t replicate.
For collectors, creatives, and designers alike, The Lotus Collection remains a must-visit Bay Area resource. Kathleen Taylor’s discerning eye and commitment to authenticity make her an irreplaceable partner in the design world. Visits to her studio are by appointment only, and we recommend coming prepared with the various fabric and material samples from your project — this makes the process of narrowing down her stunning options more focused and intentional. Be warned, though: with such an extraordinary collection, it’s almost impossible to leave empty handed.
ABD STUDIO, September 2025
