Remodelista

Tortoise, LA

March 29th, 2007

From Sarah:

On a recent trip to LA, I was wandering down LA’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard when I noticed a tiny cottage storefront with a collection of sublime ceramic pots in the window.

Inside, in addition to the pots by artisan Shio Kusaka, I discovered an exquisitely edited collection of Japanese craft goods mixed with the modern. Owned by Takuhiro (Taku) Shinomoto, Tortoise’s interior is sleekly modern with the emphasis on natural, earthy elements. Also on offer are hand-blown glasses, washi lighting, Sori Yanagi designs, ceramics, and wood and paper goods.

I also admired Taku’s feather-light coiled beech stool covered in wool for $385 (below left), and this cherry veneer Mokusei lamp (below right), which comes in a flat pack for $225.

Taku, who used to work for Japan’s Idee, an innovative furniture company, also makes custom furniture, such as this teak table and bench (below) on display in the small outdoor space behind the store. Browse the offerings online at www.tortoiselife.com.

1. 10 Easy Pieces: Metal-Base Dining Tables
2. Furniture: Toddler’s Dining Chair
3. Palette & Paints: Black & White
4. Shopper’s Diary: Piet Hein Eek at Liberty
5. Furniture: Ny Svensk Slöjd

Entry Filed under: LIVING & DINING, SHOPPER'S DIARY