Retail
Arcana, Culver City
This long-running retailer specialises in rare and out-of-print books on fine and contemporary art, architecture, photography and fashion. The staff are deeply knowledgeable, so it’s well worth getting their opinion. Build an afternoon in Culver City around this spot and Heath Ceramics.
Just One Eye, Hollywood
Paola Russo’s 8,000 sq ft concept shop in a former art deco warehouse offers pieces from cult fashion labels, including The Row and God’s True Cashmere, as well as fine jewellery, artwork and limited-edition books. The interior fit-out has a minimalist, gallery-like appearance.
Mohawk General Store, Silver Lake
Though it’s been nearly two decades since its launch, Mohawk General Store remains the standard-bearer for unique yet elegant dressing on the Eastside. Its selection of men’s and womenswear, which includes pieces by Issey Miyake, Dries Van Noten, Lemaire, Comoli, Story MFG, Our Legacy and Engineered Garments, focuses on craftsmanship rather than trends.
JF Chen, Hollywood
Behind an unmarked side-street entrance sits this cavernous antiques warehouse filled with French art deco sculptures, Serge Mouille lighting and rare mid-century finds. The dimly lit, cinematic atmosphere is complemented by the museum-quality objects and accessories.
Tortoise General Store, Venice
Tokyo natives Keiko and Taku Shinomoto moved to Los Angeles in 2003 and shortly after opened a homeware shop focused on timeless craft. The pair pack the space with kitchenware, stationery and grooming tools, including brass pen cases and santoku knives.
Heath Ceramics, Culver City
Founded in Sausalito in 1948, this institution is beloved for its glazed Coupe and Rim dinnerware lines, hand-finished tiles and weighty stoneware. Its Culver City outpost stocks excellent homeware from brands such as kitchenware specialist David Mellor, textile label Block Shop and furniture maker Herman Miller.
Maimoun, West Hollywood
Head to this boutique for pieces from emerging fashion labels, artisan-made accessories and small items for the home. It’s worth seeking out the hand-loomed knits and the understated avant garde clothing that balances craft tradition with contemporary design. Visit by appointment only.
Hightide, Downtown
This shop offers stationery and everyday objects with a Japanese sensibility. You’ll find Hightide’s own desk accessories, such as planners, utility cases, incense, bags and other small goods. There is also an edit of independent brands, including Penco, Nahe, New Retro, Butler, PH and Re-Standard. It’s set within the Row DTLA, a retail hub that houses other contemporary ventures, including fragrance specialist Scent Bar and Kinto, which produces pared-back tableware.
