The signature look of Via Motif dates back to 1990 when owner Cathy Steinberg discovered pandan, a richly textured woven natural fiber, during a visit to a remote village in Indonesia. At the time, the tradition of weaving this aloe based plant into woven mats was quickly becoming a dying craft. Recognizing that with some refinement in production technique and the addition of lush color, this traditional craft could be revitalized, she pioneered the first pandan collection of interior design accessories.
Over the years what started with a small collection of pandan boxes produced by a handful of artisans evolved into over 400 items in a myraid of inventive materials manufactured in Via Motif’s own factory in Java by over 300 skilled craftsmen and support personnel. Under the watchful eye of Eric Montoya who joined Via Motif in 1995 as factory director, the company has developed a solid reputation for delivering products of consistent high quality.
Steinberg, with a background in Architecture, and Montoya, trained in Fine Arts and Design collaborate on Via Motif’s award winning products and creative direction. Steinberg’s time is spent between the company’s Miami headquarters and Paris office. Montoya, based in the company’s Java locale, oversees an R&D department as well as all manufacturing operations.
Whether a client comes to Via Motif with exact specifications, or is looking for expert guidance to refine a vision, our in-house design team and company-owned manufacturing facility make us uniquely qualified to provide custom product solutions for a variety of contract applications.
Via Motif creates distinctive collections of interior design accessories that enhance the décor of the welcoming home and the experience of the hotel guest. Sold by fine retailers and found in upscale hotels and restaurants around the world, Via Motif’s product lines are distinguished by their inventive use of materials, clean design, and exquisite attention to detail.
Via Motif’s growing popularity stems from the universal appeal of products that are enduring, meticulously crafted and elegantly simple. Whether a room is in a 5 star hotel or a private home, it should feel welcoming, warm and alive. Designing products that create this experience of stylish harmony is a continual inspiration for the team at Via Motif.