DESIGN & ARCHTIECTURE

PAUSE LIFE, PLAY GAMES

The collaboration between Society Social and photographer Nick Mele redefines modern furniture with a playful blend of nostalgic charm and contemporary sophistication.

JESSICA HALL

In a delightful confluence of artistry and design, Society Social and photographer Nick Mele introduce Pause Life, Play Games, a furniture collection that reimagines how we live, play, and entertain. Born from Nick’s deep appreciation for interiors and Roxy’s love for furniture that tells a story, this collection marries nostalgic charm with modern sophistication, making each piece as playful as it is functional. The collaboration captures a timeless energy, where design is not just about looks, but about creating a lasting impression that resonates in the moments spent around the pieces.

At the heart of the collection is the Checkmate Game Table, a masterstroke of craftsmanship that invites conviviality. Its rich mahogany finish and cabriole legs, paired with a bold high-gloss sheen, effortlessly blend tradition with modern flair. A hidden grasscloth storage inset not only provides practicality but adds a touch of elegance, offering the perfect space for tucking away board games, puzzles, and cards when the night is over. This table is the center of attention, transforming game night into a scene of effortless sophistication, where every move becomes a statement of style. “Meeting Nick in Palm Beach felt serendipitous,” says Roxy Owens, Founder and Creative Director of Society Social. “I’ve admired his whimsical aesthetic for years. Our collaboration beautifully blends his playful take on old-world glamour with Society Social’s versatile designs, resulting in something fresh and unexpected.”

Flanking the game table are the regal Queen and King Barrel Back Accent Chairs, poised to elevate any dining or game table setting. These chairs invite you to sink into comfort while adding a bold touch of refinement to your space. Whether standing solo or paired together, they create an atmosphere of effortless elegance, allowing every room to feel inviting and dynamic.

The collection’s versatility shines through in pieces like the Gambit Gaming Chair, which redefines the traditional gaming chair. Gone are the bulky, faux-leather seats of the past; this chair combines sophistication with ergonomic design, making it a chic, functional addition to any living room or family space. It’s a playful nod to the world of gaming, offering luxurious comfort without sacrificing style. Meanwhile, the Knight Retro Rattan Rocker evokes a sense of nostalgia with its hand-bent rattan frame, bringing warmth and whimsy to your favorite corner. Its heirloom-worthy craftsmanship makes it a standout piece, whether perched by the game table or nestled in a cozy nook.

Each piece in this collection has been meticulously crafted with a focus on both aesthetics and function. Upholstered items are handcrafted in North Carolina, while the woven designs are skillfully created in the Philippines, combining heritage techniques with contemporary design sensibilities. The result is a seamless integration of timeless materials and modern flair, perfect for the modern home.

Adding an artistic flourish, the campaign for this collection, captured through Nick Mele’s lens, mirrors his signature style—sophisticated with a twist of the unexpected. The imagery itself is a canvas for creativity, blending Mele’s fine art photography with the playful spirit of the furniture. As he puts it, “I love how the Gambit chair redefines what one might envision when thinking of a standard-issue gaming chair. It’s fun, comfortable, and most importantly, attractive. This collection is a true reflection of both our brands—where creativity, playfulness, and design meet.”

From the playful Pawn Wicker Stool to the bold Royal Flush Lounge Chair, Pause Life, Play Games transforms everyday moments into opportunities for connection and artistry. Each piece stands as a future heirloom, blending functional design with personality, making it a collection that doesn’t just furnish a space but tells a story—one that’s both timeless and entirely your own. With customizable fabrics and finishes, this collection offers something for every home, bringing a fresh, whimsical approach to modern furniture design.