industry index
The LA studio that blends modern, retro and global influences in unique ways
Who are they? Los Angeles studio Commune is a multidisciplinary practice that embraces architecture, interior design, product design and graphics. Founded in 2004 by Roman Alonso and Steven Johanknecht, its core value is collaboration – not only with clients but with artists and craftspeople around the world. Its online homeware store, for example, features an extensive range of ceramics, textiles, lighting and accessories created both in-house and with like-minded designers and brands.
Based in a 1920s Spanish Revival building near LA’s MacArthur Park, Alonso and Johanknecht met in 1990 while working at New York department store Barneys. ‘We were both in the Creative Services department, where we oversaw everything related to the store’s image,’ explains Alonso. ‘We learned to look at things holistically and consider all aspects of a project. There was no hierarchy: advertising, store design, event production – it was all the same. This philosophy was key to the creation of Commune and is still at its heart.’ Both men studied art history (Johanknecht also mastering in graphic design and painting) and have an easy connection that underpins their partnership. ‘We’ve worked together in one way or another since we met, and share similar influences,’ says Johanknecht. ‘We’re usually on the same page, so making decisions is simple – that’s the secret to our success as partners.’
Expert advice
How to create an interior that successfully blends retro and modern influences with timeless materials
Blend different eras and styles. The key to achieving harmony is in maintaining the right proportions. It helps when all of your seat heights are the same, and the scale of everything in a room works well together.
Bring together different cultural references. It shows that someone has an interest in the world, but it must be real: you have to be truly fascinated by those influences for it to work. It’s about choosing things that make sense for you and your life; as designers, it’s our job to figure out what clients might like and introduce them to those things.
It’s important to bring a sense of place to a project, especially when several different design influences are on display. To accomplish this, we love to commission textiles and furnishings from local artisans to add as much personality as possible.
Commission unique bespoke pieces, whether furniture, textiles or tiles. It guarantees they will be in your life longer. We work with several woodworkers, and believe in using native timbers, if possible salvaged and from old growth, to
