LA by Design

While Los Angeles is home to Hollywood's elite, churning out movies and mayhem faster than you can scream "Lindsay Lohan got arrested," it's also the epicenter of a design scene that dates back nearly 100 years, encapsulating Art Deco architecture, midcentury modern and a host of other cultural, historical and social influences.

EDGE takes a look at five iconic brands that capture the breadth and diversity of LA's design evolution.

Phyllis Morris

"You don't come to Phyllis Morris for a table or chair. You come here when you want an extension of your personality."
-Jamie Adler, President

Her career began in 1953 with the design of a poodle lamp that became all the rage. Defying the minimalist midcentury style of the era, Phyllis Morris's collection evolved to include elaborate canopy beds and lush accent pieces that featured Italian carvings and layered patinas -- all painstakingly handcrafted by a team of artisans.

Daughter Jamie Adler has overseen the brand for the last 25 years and continues to push boundaries, such as her collaboration with rock 'n' roll fashion designer Logan Riese, who created a one-of-a-kind leather wingback chair featuring arabesque leather appliques and gold leaf.

Further

Located in the hipster neighborhood of Silver Lake, where you can imbibe in a $5 single-origin cup of coffee from any number of cafes sporting tattooed baristas, Further celebrates nearly 20 years as an artisanal factory specializing in mosaic tables and panels as well as a retail store for unique home decor and gifts.

Not just for the backyard patio, the work of co-owner and artist Raymond Arias can be seen at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, on the set of "The Young and the Restless" and at restaurants throughout the country. With wife and business partner, Michelle, the couple's inspiration comes from traveling throughout Europe as well as classic Greek and Roman mosaics, though you'll also discover Latin American influences among the store's curated items.

Furthur is well known among locals and boasts a loyal clientele who keep coming back to explore the ever-changing merchandise.

Environment

"Sustainability is an investment in quality, competence and timelessness for better life surroundings."
-Jean-Marie Massaud, Creative Director and Designer

Inspired by the Rough-Luxe movement values of authenticity, experience, rarity and quality, Environment offers timeless home collections that respect the planet.

Founded in 2001 as an experiment with a particular type of reclaimed wood called Brazilian Peroba, the company has evolved into a lifestyle brand that showcases uncommon woods and textiles. In addition, Environment also repurposes fabrics including vintage military canvas and Levi's denim.

Alexandra von Furstenberg

"There's great beauty in simplicity."
-Alexandra von Furstenberg

Located in West Hollywood's Design District, Alexandra von Furstenberg proves that acrylic is far more than fake nails on "RuPaul's Drag Race." The ultra-sophisticated minimalist furniture collection first launched in 2007 and has since grown to include tabletop accessories like trays and bowls.

Woven Accents

Abraham Moradzadeh founded Abraham Rug Gallery in 1980, and in 2005 it was rebranded with the help from his son, Sam, as an opportunity to breathe new life into his father's work. A world traveler with Old World charm, Abraham has a keen eye for craftsmanship and artistry, as does his staff, who is integrating a contemporary flair to the store's impressive West Hollywood location.

As part of the company's "Changing the Conversation" series, Woven Accents recently commissioned contemporary artists to repurpose vintage rugs and pillows for an installation titled "One Love." Artist Gregory Siff graffitied the building's exterior, and the entire showroom was converted into a reimagined gallery space, proving that art and design are ever evolving in the City of Angels.

Discover

Phyllis Morris
655 North Robertson Blvd.
www.phyllismorris.com

Further
4312 West Sunset Blvd.
www.furtherla.com

Environment
8126 Beverly Blvd.
www.environmentfurniture.com

Alexandra Von Furstenberg
9001 Melrose Ave.
www.alexandravonfurstenberg.com

Woven Accents
8674 Melrose Ave.
www.wovenonline.com

West Hollywood Design District
www.westhollywooddesigndistrict.com

Pacific Design Center
www.pacificdesigncenter.com