Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, known for his dynamic and successful culinary career, is stepping into a new arena with the launch of a 32-piece home goods collection in collaboration with West Elm. The Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef captured the culinary world’s attention when he became the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit at just 24, earning a three-star review from the New York Times shortly after. He has further established his legacy as a restaurateur with venues like Red Rooster, Hav & Mar, and Metropolis.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson reflected on how the pandemic has transformed people’s dining habits. He noted that lockdowns prompted many to improve their home cooking skills, leading diners to seek out unique experiences when they go out to eat. They now crave not just good food but also quality service and an atmosphere that makes them feel part of a larger community.
Samuelsson emphasized that engagement with local communities is a critical aspect of his restaurants. At Red Rooster, for example, live music is an intrinsic part of the experience, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere he aims to create and supporting local musicians. Similarly, he aims to reflect the unique character of each neighborhood where he opens a restaurant, as seen with Hav & Mar’s art program inspired by Chelsea’s artistic spirit.
The new home goods collection draws on Samuelsson’s vast creative experiences beyond cooking, including his passion for art and design. He attributes the inspiration for the collection to his roots, referencing his father’s fishing village in Sweden as well as the cultural prints from Africa. This merging of influences showcases his rich heritage and multifaceted creativity.
As he engages in these diverse projects, Samuelsson remains rooted in his first love—cooking. Despite venturing into new territories, he finds grounding in the kitchen, where he feels most in control and clear about his direction.
This exciting new venture not only highlights Samuelsson’s versatility as a creative but also exemplifies how chefs can blend their culinary expertise with other forms of artistry. Those looking to indulge in Samuelsson’s unique aesthetic can look forward to the new collection, which brings a touch of his global influences into everyday living spaces.
In summary, Marcus Samuelsson continues to evolve, embracing new creative outlets while maintaining his culinary foundations. This blends his cultural heritage and passion for community into a practical collection that could inspire many interested in home design and cooking alike. Through his work, he exemplifies how one can adapt and create meaningful connections, promising a rich dining and lifestyle experience for his followers.