A-COLD-WALL* 2016 Pre-Spring/Summer "HOUSEHOLD" Collection

Samuel Ross’ A-COLD-WALL* brand presents its latest endeavour in the form of this 2016 pre-spring/summer collection. Titled “HOUSEHOLD,” the line comprises of a variety of pieces including jackets, sweaters, tees and bottoms in unorthodox color palettes. Favorites such as the “NO WATER” graphic return in a new iteration while we are also presented with a selection of new motifs. We spoke to Samuel about his latest offering to gain some further insight into the inspirations behind it.

What points of reference did you draw for inspiration?
The collection draws on, and channels materials that articulate a wider spectrum of experiences. The materials were utilized to merge and showcase the diversity of the British household, as work-inspired water-resistant nylons paired with traditional decorative fabrics usually are appointed to flaunt afro-caribbean wealth.
The old-school display cabinet era comes to mind. Where dusty glassware and crowded china — that shit you could never touch — is like mixing a Pentecostal black church with a low income job. Those ideas splinter off into opposite directions but are so interlaced, almost glued together. It’s like finding a new luxury which can only be realized by pairing often isolated materials and experiences, so I’m applying a varnish to this wide grey area of life experience without being too overt.

Can you share the creative approach for this collection?

The creative approach was to find and pinpoint triggers which focus in on individual figures that create a household — points of interest run alongside the ‘Spatial Awareness’ installation but instead focus on different talking points. Bauhaus influences and working-class Britain’s aroma is still strong and forms now, as the foundation/initial slab that has to be laid down.

What drew you to using Bauhaus influences?

The Bauhaus references always feel like inserting codes into the overall story, pairing those ideals of Danish minimalism with lavish ideals of pentecostal churches feels like a zeitgeist moment. Both exist in different worlds but this generation, our generation, has experienced both.

Finally, what would you say the overall tone of the collection is?

The overall tone of the collection this time leans towards exalting the main talking points rather than only showcasing the unknown. It’s still key to not take an over-optimistic approach, hence why key graphics, and talking points remain — NO WATER, the understated backdrop, the green fluorescent tinge, the taut cable tie, it’s all still present in SS16 but I feel it’s key to explore abstract experiences. Visually and sonically loud Churches mixed with Bauhaus, mixed with the that janitor or security guard who doesn’t exist.

The A-COLD-WALL* 2016 pre-spring/summer “HOUSEHOLD” collection will be available at the brand’s website towards the end of January and will also include a selection of hats, as well as accessories yet to be showcased.