Lately, I’ve been posting all things Los Angeles—places to eat, spots to browse, standout interiors showrooms, notable historic homes, and a few visits to homes by Schindler and Frank Lloyd Wright. But this post shifts from buildings, boutiques, and restaurants… to the people. Specifically, the people I met during a week of panels and presentations at Design Los Angeles—and more importantly, the books they brought with them.

My friend didn’t need to do much convincing for me to join her for Design Los Angeles. The former La Cienega Design Quarter (LCDQ) has recently rebranded under the leadership of Rebecca Birdwell, supported by a board of notable industry figures. We spent most of our time in West Hollywood, where LA’s interior design showrooms cluster along La Cienega, and seeing them on the West Coast felt essential and energizing.