A Whimsical Journey of East and West Coast Design: Avant-Garde Secret Garden
Inspiration Behind the Installation
This year's Legends theme, "Rooms In Bloom," served as a vibrant canvas for creative minds to weave their magic. For my installation, I envisioned a setting that harmoniously blended the distinct aesthetics of both East and West Coast design, while infusing a whimsical avant-garde secret garden spirit throughout. The result was an Avant Garde Secret Garden, a dreamlike space complete with a custom swing and a mesmerizing painting by Jason Koharik, crafted entirely from wine to evoke the illusion of blossoms.
The Design Process
Designing this space was an intense yet exhilarating journey. Working with my favorite vendors, I meticulously curated each piece to ensure they complemented one another perfectly. My trip to LA was a whirlwind; within four days, I had sourced each element, culminating in the creation of a swing with Thomas Hayes. The addition of brass and metal details brought an unexpected touch of drama to the
serene garden setting.
Sourcing and Collaboration
Jason Koharik’s collection was instrumental in shaping the overall look and feel of the installation. His stunning leather leaf-like chaise, perforated metal accents, tubular chandelier, and floor lamp resembling a towering stem brought a unique edge to the space. Additionally, we featured a kinetic hanging sculpture from Twentieth Galleries, crafted from found natural elements, which added a dynamic aspect to the display. Sasha Courts' romantic vessel further enhanced our theme, while a large hot pink knot sculpture by The Future Perfect introduced a playful twist. An organic ceramic seed lamp on the swing cast the perfect amount of light, adding to the garden’s enchanting atmosphere.
Creating this space was a liberating experience that allowed me to explore a more colorful and whimsical design aesthetic than my usual style. Witnessing the final installation, I felt immense joy and creative fulfillment. Legends 2024 embodied the spirit of design and community, and I am deeply honored to have been a part of it.
The support and contributions of my vendors were pivotal in bringing this vision to life, and I am grateful for their collaboration.
About Legends and the La Cienega Design Quarter (LCDQ)
For over half a century, the La Cienega Design Quarter has been a haven for sophisticated shoppers seeking top-quality home design. Known for its romantic courtyards, alluring windows, and treasure troves of antiques, furniture, rugs, accessories, and art, LCDQ stands as the “shopping heart” and workplace of the interior design profession. Nestled among some of L.A.’s most glamorous restaurants, bistros, fashion boutiques, and salons, the LCDQ is the premier West Coast Style destination.
Now in its 14th year, LEGENDS is the most anticipated event on the national design calendar. This annual festival draws influencers, enthusiasts, editors, and design purveyors from across the U.S. and around the world to the LCDQ for three days of keynotes, open houses, discussions, book signings, exhibitions, personal appearances, social events, and networking.
The hallmark of LEGENDS is the transformation of the LCDQ shop and showroom windows, each reimagined to reflect the event’s theme, "Rooms in Bloom."
The La Cienega Design Quarter rose to prominence in the 1950s, with interior designers residing above their studios in the stylish apartments lining La Cienega Boulevard. Notable figures such as William Haines, Elsie de Wolfe, Frances Elkins, Tony Duquette, and Michael Taylor frequented the boulevard in search of unique finds. Many of these historic buildings remain, now home to antique shops and design showrooms, preserving the area’s rich heritage while continuing to attract designers seeking the rare and unusual. The LCDQ spans one square mile around the intersection of La Cienega Boulevard, Melrose Place, and Melrose Avenue, extending from San Vicente to nearly Robertson Boulevard.
As we wrap up Legends 2024, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this incredible week of celebration possible.