Mission statement
The goal of this studio has been simple:
Design timeless, beautiful pieces that speak to the soul of the client. Craft them to the highest standard to meet and exceed expectations. Build them locally so that each part of the process can be quality controlled.
Remain committed to fair, sound principles within the industry and offer exceptional customer service.
About the studio
In 1998 , Leslie Shapiro Joyal created 407 Furniture. It is a 100% woman owned business.
A native of Los Angeles, she graduated from UCLA Interior Architecture Program and worked for such talents as architect Frank Israel, interior designer Kerry Joyce, and textile designer Jack Lenor Larsen. The showroom was originally opened as a resource for architects and designers seeking furniture that fit the sensibilities of their projects. At that time, there were not a lot of resources catering to designers that wanted a more minimalist aesthetic.
Leslie, after working in the design field for many years, found it difficult and frustrating to find furniture that had both the level of quality and visual she wanted. Having an interior design business, she often created private commissions for her clients, and when a small shop on Fairfax opened up, she took it as a venue to showcase her designs. She had always been interested in furniture design, and wanted also to start a family and start a business that didn’t require so much on-site time.
So…the studio began.
For over 15 years, 407 Furniture has been setting the standard for fine handmade solid wood furniture in los angeles.
The gallery features collections of modern pieces which have an understated elegance; the designs are minimal, clean and of rare craftsmanship.
Since 1998, long before the current “green” trends, the studio remained steadfast in its dedication to the use of California suppliers, local workshops and natural materials, preferring and celebrating the purity of line and minimal finishes to the excesses of decoration.
Leslie has remained committed to sound design principles and skilled workmanship, acting on the belief that the smaller studio can be involved in the entire process, and therefore put forth great work, work that has timelessness and longevity.
This tenet successfully filled a void in the marketplace, not only cultivating a loyal following of architects, designers and like-minded clientele, but also began the paradigm shift towards American made, handcrafted furniture.
Originally doubted, this business model has become not just embraced, but celebrated. It is no longer unusual to see mainstream showrooms offering handcrafted, heirloom, custom made products.
407 Furniture is now shapiro joyal studio.
