It was a last minute impromptu dash to LA for a Design Show that I had never heard of before...The WestEdge Design Fair. Based in The Barker Hangar, an airplane hangar beside the Santa Monica airport, it was a real gem. What a welcome change from the larger shows that I normally attend in gigantic impersonal convention centers with expensive parking, long lineups and big corporate exhibitors.It can only be called “deep”, my new favourite term that I learned from my new favorite TV documentary series The Life-Sized City. It means...small, off the beaten track...a real gem.
As the exhibitors were putting the finishing touches on their stands, we participated in a series of panel discussions in a large tent outside the back of the hangar. Moderated by Lindsey Shook, California Home + Design’s Editorial Editor, there were 3 panels, consisting of leaders of the Los Angeles design community who explored a range of topics including: ‘The Art of Investing in your Real Estate’, ‘The Healthy Home’ and ‘Made Local: Los Angeles‘.
The Art of Investing in your Real Estate Panel
I was very pleased to hear the Real Estate panelists agree that in order to sell your property at the best possible price, the staging furnishings and accessories must be of a quality that matches the property and the price that you are asking. As well, it is essential to display the walls with “original artwork”. Product from staging rental warehouses and artwork from your local Big Box Stores does not convey the quality or the price that you may be looking to get for your property.
The Healthy Home” was about what it means to be “green” when you are building, renovating or furnishing your home. “Designing a healthy, eco-friendly home is becoming more and more important. With the new WELL building standards and an ever-evolving collection of eco-materials, it can be difficult to navigate the smartest choices.”
Made Local: Los Angeles’ was an interesting discussion consisting of 5 different designers/makers living and working in LA. Alex Segal and Riley Rea of Croft House, Jamie Davis of Portola Paints, Meyghan Hill of (wh)ore haus studios and Uri Davillier of Neptune Glassworks discussed the journey of creating, marketing their products and what they thought the attraction was for their clientele to purchase original as opposed to made in an off shore factory for less. “In the current world of design, locally made objects and furniture are playing a central role in the home and why it’s important to shop for handmade, local design.” A very interesting talk that was near and dear to my heart!
Made Local: Los Angeles Panel
The talks were followed by a reception on the show floor where everyone had an opportunity to meet and talk to the panelists as well as the exhibitors. It was also a relaxing opportunity to take a stroll through the show and see the different exhibits before all the attendees arrived. I thought that the exhibits were more artisan based and hand crafted ... from beautiful lighting to ceramics, flooring, carpets, accessories and jewellery as well as furniture.
WestEdge Lounge
Outdoor Lounge by Juniper House
Beautiful Art
The Milk Stand Popup shop by the fabulous team from Design Milk showcased up and coming design companies. Visitors and attendees could buy offered items ranging from home accessories and leather goods, to modern jewelry and artwork.
Milk Stand Pop Up presented by Design Milk
Modern Planters by AirPlantMan
What a delight to experience an exhibition of creativity, design and integrity!
