Just over a year ago, we were awash in excitement, unveiling some incredible new Target owned brands. And it’s been quite a ride! We’ve now rolled out tons of new only-at-Target brands, from A New Day and Goodfellow & Co to Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, Opalhouse and Made By Design. It’s all about giving guests something new to discover—and even more reasons to love Target—at every turn. Take Project 62, for example. The approachable modern Home brand debuted last September, making sophisticated, high-quality modern design super-affordable—and becoming a fast fan-favorite. To celebrate Project 62’s first year, we’re taking a look at what makes this brand special—and inviting a new friend to style pieces from the latest collection. Trust us—it’ll have you falling in love all over again.
A strong foundation
Every new brand we create is close to our hearts, but Project 62 has an extra-special Target tie. Its name references the height of the mid-century modern design movement in 1962 and nods to our roots—we opened our very first Target store in ‘62. So, of course, we had to make sure the brand would serve up an incredible dose of Tarzhay.
“Project 62 has proven to be a perfect addition to our Home portfolio, helping guests effortlessly create a warm modern look,” says Jill Sando, senior vice president, merchandising, Target. “Every single item in the 3,000-piece collection not only looks amazing, but is thoughtfully designed for everyday life—all at a value that’s unmistakably Target.”
Building, learning, evolving
That focus on design and value is paying off—guests are loving Project 62. A few of their favorite pieces thus far? The Brass Wall Mirror, Loring Desk and Southport Wicker Chat Set. But there’s more on their wish lists, so we’re listening and adjusting—adding more patterns, palettes and price points, while introducing new finds from outdoor living pieces to shelving solutions and amazing new seasonal décor. (See what we mean? There’s definitely more to love!).
So, what’s next? New pieces that are perfect for fall, of course! Think nature-inspired hues and materials, from faux greenery and earthy ceramics to blackened wood and metals and more. It’s all meant to be mixed and matched with finds from Target’s other Home owned brands, including Threshold and Opalhouse, helping guests create easy, casual looks in their own homes this fall. Take a peek at a few of our favorite pieces below, then immerse yourself in inspiration on Target.com.
The finishing touches
Loving these modern pieces, but need a little more inspiration to create your own look at home? You’re in luck! We asked our new friend Leanne Ford, interior designer and co-star of HGTV’s “Restored by the Fords” (not to mention huge Project 62 fan) to spill her secrets for making modern design feel warm, approachable and totally achievable…
What first inspired your love of design?
I’ve been designing since I was a little girl—only what I was doing back then was more aptly called “redecorating!” I rearranged my bedroom furniture daily. In the sixth grade I convinced my parents to paint their kitchen white. I even pulled the staircase carpet up while they were out to dinner once. And needless to say, I’ve decorated every dorm room and rental I’ve ever lived in (apologies to ALL of my landlords). It was not until I bought and remodeled my own house 8 years ago that I realized that this passion might be evolving into a new career path.
Tell us more about your aesthetic—and why Project 62 is such a great fit.
My style is easy, simple, casual, attainable, but still cool. Target is an amazing fit with my style because I believe in beautiful design for all. Everyone should have a home they love and can feel proud of. And Project 62 couldn’t be a better aesthetic match as all of my work has a mid-century lean and influence to it, no matter the style of the home.
Which pieces from the Project 62 fall collection are your favorites?
I am so happy to see faux greenery. I love the life that greenery brings to a space, but I always end up killing it, so this is a much-needed addition to my life. I also really like the terra-cotta pieces. They come in amazing shapes and in a great natural shade that will only get better with age.
Any tips for those who love the modern look but might be a little intimated about styling it in their own homes?
First of all, mid-century and modern do not necessarily mean stark. My best advice for designing with modern touches is to mix—mix styles, genres, eras. Don’t decorate, curate! A modern light fixture next to a Victorian sofa is amazing. And for an easy, fail-proof look, stay within a color story. Mine seems to always be white! (Can’t help it… it’s just so pretty!) It’s a great blank canvas for a bunch of beautiful things to live well together, modern and otherwise.
And you can always start small. Take the bathroom, for example. A few simple pieces can transform a small space into a serene getaway—and I’ll take any zen I can get! I just refreshed my own bathroom with Project 62, and you can absolutely create this peaceful vibe in your own home. Start with loads of faux greenery and mix and match vessels in earth tones, then layer in rich texture with towels and rugs and play with circles and simple lines for an extra dose of simple serenity.
Other than Project 62 pieces, of course, what’s typically in your Target basket?
Everything. Really! I come in for dish soap and come out with a new cooler, a new fancy fan, probably a couple of plates and glassware pieces and for some reason I always see some cozy bedding that I just must have. The struggle is real at Target—and I can’t get enough!
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