The WestEdge Design Show review

By Paul Finn — Los Angeles is a hotpot for creativity. Art and Design often go hand in hand – so if you happen to love both, you may want to schedule your visit to include the WestEdge Design Show. It takes place each year in November. Enjoy a review from one of our writers Paul Finn, who has renovated and designed many homes in his lifetime.

The WestEdge Design Show

I attended the 2024 WestEdge Design Show at Barker Hangar on November 14th, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. After a grueling, down-to-the-studs restoration of my home, following a pandemic-era house fire, I’ve been hunting for the perfect final details to bring everything together. And last night, Barker Hangar was packed with inspiration. Opening night gala ticket sales even supported the Hollywood Food Coalition, a mission I discovered at the event. It provides meals and services to those in need.

This year’s show brought in vendors from all over Los Angeles County and beyond, showcasing a mix of fresh ideas and design staples. What makes WestEdge special is how it breaks down that wall between designers and the rest of us. It allows anyone to explore and even buy pieces that are usually insider secrets. It’s a rare chance to step into a world where every detail feels meticulously considered. You see how first hand that even something as small as a door handle can make a statement.

Emtek

Take Emtek. Their booth showed just how much thought can go into what most people would consider an afterthought. Pairing a round knurled grip with a square polished escutcheon plate isn’t just clever—it’s a chance to give your doors real personality. They even had matching hinges with tiny caps that mimic the texture of their handles. I mean, when was the last time you heard someone get excited about hinges? Just a few steps away, Frank Allart and Croft were dazzling attendees with designs that transformed doors and cabinets into works of art. Both companies presented options so elegant, they felt more like jewelry than hardware.

Elements Room

One of my favorites of the night was Elements Room. Their booth was impossible to miss: towering stone slabs lined up like a modern art installation. Some were backlit to show off their natural patterns, turning them into glowing sculptures. It’s a reminder that countertops aren’t just functional—they’re statement pieces. They put in serious effort, as always, but I would be remiss not to give a nod to Rio Stone, whose backlit slabs were equally impressive. Together, these displays felt like a love letter to the materials themselves.

But it wasn’t all about hardware and countertops. If you’re planning your forever home or remodeling instead of moving—like many who are clinging to those golden 2% interest rates—you’d want to check out the outdoor kitchen setups. Browse wood-burning rotisseries. Then check out custom hardwoods showcased by Fame Floors—the possibilities were endless. For those dreaming of luxury beyond the kitchen, the jaw-dropping closet installation by Ornare was a showstopper. Sleek, high-end finishes met clever functionality in a way that might bring tears to your eyes—or maybe just your wallet.

Uncovering these kinds of details feels like discovering a designer’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re working with a pro or exploring customization on your own, WestEdge offers an inspiring glimpse into what’s possible. Be sure to mark your calendar for next year. This treasure trove of design is an experience you will not want to miss.

The WestEdge Design Show takes place every November, visit the website for more info, or to purchase tickets – https://westedgedesignfair.com/