We recently sat down with David Zarin, President of Zarin Fabrics, one of the largest decorative fabric retailers in the U.S., known for its deep inventory of high-end textiles and full-service custom workrooms. For 90 years, Zarin Fabrics has been the go-to destination for interior designers, hospitality clients, and discerning homeowners seeking materials that are as durable and compliant as they are beautiful.
As more businesses seek to balance form, function, and fire safety, Zarin Fabrics plays a growing role in helping clients select textiles that meet both aesthetic and regulatory needs. We spoke with David about the intersection of material design, commercial safety standards, and why understanding fabric performance is critical in any large-scale interior project.
TFP: Many people think of fabrics as a purely visual or tactile element. Why is safety part of the conversation too?
David Zarin: In residential projects, the focus is usually on look and feel. But in commercial environments—restaurants, hotels, theaters, office lobbies—fabric becomes a risk factor if it’s not specified correctly. Aesthetic choices have to be paired with flame ratings, code requirements, and use-case durability. Clients often don’t realize how many layers there are—literally and figuratively—between a swatch and a compliant, installed product. That’s where we come in.
TFP: What kinds of safety standards are relevant when it comes to fabrics in public spaces?
Zarin: It varies by jurisdiction, but NFPA 701 is the big one for drapery and window treatments. CAL 117 or TB 133 come into play for upholstery. Many commercial clients are surprised to learn that not all fabrics can be treated to meet these standards—and not all treatments are created equal. We source materials specifically for flame-retardant use cases, and we have partners who apply certified treatments that stand up to inspection. The goal is to make compliance automatic for the client.
TFP: Where do you see safety intersecting with design goals in your work?
Zarin: All the time. We recently worked with a hotel where the designer wanted a dramatic sheer curtain that spanned three floors of open atrium space. Visually stunning, but a huge potential hazard if not done right. We helped them select a FR-rated fabric that kept the visual effect but passed all local fire code requirements. That’s where design and safety meet: smart material choices that don’t compromise the creative vision.
TFP: You’ve mentioned a growing number of commercial clients. What does that side of the business look like today?
Zarin: It’s expanding fast. We’ve done work for restaurants, coworking spaces, large multifamily developments, even Broadway productions. The projects range from custom banquette upholstery to 300-yard drapery installations. These clients need more than fabric—they need logistics, compliance, fabrication, and project management. That’s why we’ve built out a commercial services team with deep experience in flame-rated textiles and code-compliant installation.
TFP: What advice would you give to developers or facilities teams choosing textiles for a new build or renovation?
Zarin: Involve the fabric experts early. Don’t wait until design is finalized to think about FR requirements. You’ll save time, avoid change orders, and get better results. Our team can recommend pre-treated materials, coordinate testing certificates, and ensure that what looks good on paper performs in the real world. That proactive mindset makes a huge difference in both design execution and inspection readiness.
TFP: What’s next for Zarin Fabrics?
Zarin: We’re continuing to grow our national commercial footprint. As more clients think holistically about space—how it looks, feels, performs, and protects—we’re positioned to be a resource at the intersection of creativity and compliance. Whether it’s reimagining a hotel lobby or outfitting a performance space, we help clients design with impact, without sacrificing safety.