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Los Angeles has long been a playground for designers, artists, and makers seeking uncharted creative territory. As the city’s design community grows and attention turns outward, is L.A.’s legendary openness under threat—or evolving into something new? Mallery Roberts Morgan, Roman Alonzo of Commune and Architectural Digest’s Mayor Rus weigh in on what makes California a singular hub for creative freedom.
Thank you to my incredible sponsor partners; Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, TimberTech and Shelter Republic.
Hosted by, Mallory Roberts Morgan during the 2014 edition of DIEM: Design Intersects Everything Made, this conversation explores how geography, culture, and market forces shape the freedom to innovate in Los Angeles. Panelists examine the challenges of rising rents, collector dynamics, and global influence, questioning whether L.A. can remain a unique epicenter for creative experimentation.
Another throwback episode featuring a conversation from DIEM, a symposium celebrating creativity across design, art, and fashion in the West Hollywood Design District
Panel theme: California as the last frontier of creative freedom
Roman Alonzo: Co-founder of Commune; background in publishing and art books; brought European attention to L.A. design through innovative projects
Mayer Rus: West Coast editor of Architectural Digest; former design editor at the L.A. Times Magazine; New York transplant and renowned design writer
Roman describes L.A. as the “Wild West” of design, where experimentation and making your own rules are possible
Mayer contrasts L.A. with New York, noting L.A.’s openness allows hybrid, multi-disciplinary practices
Discussion of how media attention has shaped perceptions of L.A. as a creative hub
Geography and Opportunity
Physical openness, including ocean and desert vistas, provides inspiration and creative possibility
Regional lifestyle shapes design sensibilities and project approaches
Commune’s method: designing projects rooted in California context, even when serving clients elsewhere
Market Forces, Cultural Institutions & Civic Identity
Galleries and museums influence how L.A.’s art and design are perceived
Debate over LACMA redesign highlights tensions between international star architects and supporting local talent
Maintaining civic pride and global attention without homogenizing local culture
Regional Style vs. Global Homogenization
Tension between California-specific aesthetics and universal luxury trends
Commune demonstrates that place-inspired design can thrive despite market pressures
Emphasis on fostering local cultural identity in architecture and interiors
Focus on embracing L.A.’s unique advantages, including geography, climate, and openness
Panelists encourage creators to engage deeply with their local environment
Final note: “Just look at your own stuff, your own life, and make something great out of it.”