13 March 2025

A Study in Timeless Luxury

Yabu Pushelberg’s philosophy revolves around more than just aesthetics; it’s about how spaces make people feel.

In the world of design, few names resonate with the same allure as Yabu Pushelberg. Founded by the dynamic duo George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg in 1980, their studio has blossomed from humble beginnings into a multidisciplinary powerhouse. With a commitment to transforming not just spaces, but the very essence of human  experience, they’ve carved a niche that balances artistry with functionality, creating environments that are as emotionally resonant as they are visually stunning.

With offices in both New York and Toronto, Yabu Pushelberg is home to a talented team of over a hundred creatives and professionals. This diverse group embodies a shared ethos: design should extend beyond mere appearances to encompass how spaces make people feel. It’s this guiding principle that has led them to redefine luxury. Their designs invite you to immerse yourself in an experience, to be enveloped by the ambiance that they so carefully craft.

Yabu Pushelberg’s journey began with a defining project: the iconic Club Monaco in Toronto. This was not merely an interior design venture; it was the inception of a legacy that would soon attract attention from hospitality giants like Starwood Capital Group. The duo soon found themselves designing two landmark hotels simultaneously—the 500-room W Hotel in New York and the elegant Four Seasons Marunouchi in Tokyo.

Their approach to design is both innovative and insightful, crafting collections that resonate with their philosophy of “high humble.” This aesthetic captures the essence of modern luxury—functional pieces that exude a certain charm and warmth, rather than ostentation.

(Above) Surf, designed for Molteni&C, is a design that harmoniously blends ergonomic perfection with visual appeal. The seat of the Surf sofa seamlessly integrates with the base, featuring gently rounded forms that support enveloping, slightly protruding backrests. With options for straight sections, chaise lounges, corner configurations, and partially backless end pieces, Surf offers an array of unique combinations. Each piece maintains its own character while providing compositional freedom, graceful lines, and refreshing originality.

Collaborations with esteemed brands such as Tribu and Molteni&C reflect their commitment to timeless design, offering pieces that are as practical as they are beautiful. Their beautifully curated pieces, showcased at Dawson and Co’s Parnell and North Shore showrooms in Auckland, will undoubtedly leave you with an abundance of choices, prompting the need for expert guidance to help you finalize your selection.

The Sway modular sofa draws inspiration from a deep love for nature and
an expert command of design, redefining outdoor spaces with its versatility and fluid forms. Crafted from solid teak, ensuring durability and a natural finish. Characterized by a blend of curved and angular lines, Sway’s multiple elements can be configured in a diverse array of possibilities, for a dynamic and ever-changing outdoor experience.

Their dedication to design excellence is matched by their commitment to nurturing future talent. The Yabu Pushelberg Award for Innovation in Interior Design stands as a testament to their belief in empowering the next generation of designers. This scholarship program not only supports student entrepreneurs but also fosters a culture of mentorship within the industry.

(Above) The Amanu Dining Table and Chairs–the chairs feature woven, hemp-based Canax® sling seats, suspended within the pared-back teak frame, creating the illusion of a floating chair. Designed for Tribu by Yabu Pushelberg, the broad, ceramic tiles of the Amanu Dining Table seem to float on the discreet, yet sturdy teak frame, creating a remarkable lightness. The rounded edges of both the teak profiles and the outer ceramic tiles, convey a soft and harmonious look.

As Yabu Pushelberg continues to evolve, their influence on the design landscape is evident. With a portfolio that spans hospitality, retail, and product design, they embody a coolness that is both contemporary and timeless. Their work challenges conventions and invites us to rethink how we engage with the spaces around us. With each project, George and Glenn remind us that great design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating experiences that resonate on a deeper level. As they navigate the ever-changing world of design, one thing is clear: their distinctly recognisable work invites us to cherish the beauty of well-considered spaces.

View the Yabu Pushelberg range at Dawson & Co.

(Above) The Nodi sofa has a strong personality, yet sits easily in an outdoor space without dominating it. The frame has an airiness and architectural appeal thanks to its natural curve and open weaving in Canax®. Its extra-soft, new generation filling revives its bounce even after repeated compressions. The indulgent seat cushion padding offers a feather-soft feel for absolute relaxation.

(Above) Elio dining chairs, characterised by a softly rounded silhouette that draws inwards to create a cocoon effect. Multiple soft shades of yarn are woven into one strand, which mimics the hues of natural light and makes each chair unique. Designed for Tribu by Yabu Pushelberg. Also showing the Illum dining table.

(Above) Amanu Lounge Chair. The refined Amanu collection brings interior quality outside, combining comfort and sustainability.

Tribu Luna lamp – a cordless lantern that unites people with nature, inspired after hosting a gathering with friends. Both designed for Tribu by Yabu Pushelberg