Wiseman Studio breathes new life into a former factory complex in Los Angeles

For brothers Ari and David Wiseman, New York City has been a central part of their respective careers; Ari was the deputy director at the Guggenheim, and David’s design practice was represented by Tribeca gallery R & Company. Having recently departed from both, however, the Southern California natives are now working on an ambitious project closer to home: Wiseman Studio, a 30,000 sq ft space slated to open in a former factory complex in Los Angeles’ Frogtown neighbourhood.
The central focus of Wiseman Studio, to be renovated by Ted Porter of Ted Porter Architecture, is David’s independent on-site production and exhibition of his work, with an emphasis on gallery collaborations and opening his doors to the community in order to share his process. Ahead of its early 2018 opening date, the brothers provided a sneak preview of its programme earlier this month with a one-night-only survey amid the still-raw, corrugated metal walls (complete with essential tacos stand al fresco).
Panelled Collage Room, 2015
Though its David’s very first exhibition in Los Angeles, the pieces date back 14 years to early projects at the Rhode Island School of Design. The exhibition feature his signature ornamental room panels, bronze furniture, and light fixtures, including his recent ‘Radial Branch’ chandelier, a cast bronze and sculptured porcelain piece cast from actual fallen tree limbs David has acquired on nearby hiking trails.
For David, the surrounding natural inspiration of Elysian Park and the LA River was part of the location’s draw, as well as the short drive from his house. ‘Seven minutes from my home is ideal,’ he says. ‘I couldn’t think of a better place to build the headquarters for my creative practice.’
Left, ‘Pattern Flare’ table. Right, sculptural bronze objects. Photography: Mark Hanauer
A porcelain owl perches on a bronze fixture. Photography: Mark Hanauer
‘Geometric Lattice Ribbon’ table in bronze, 2014, by David Wiseman
‘Pattern Double’ mirror in bronze, porcelain and glass, 2016, by David Wiseman
The pieces on view date back 14 years to early projects at the Rhode Island School of Design, including Wiseman’s signature ornamental room panels, bronze furniture, and light fixtures. Photography: Mark Hanauer
INFORMATION
For more information, visit the David Wiseman Studio website
Wallpaper* Newsletter
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox.
-
Paola Lenti unveils future-facing ‘Alma’ outdoor seating
At Milan Design Week 2025, Argentine designer Francisco Gomez Paz and Italian brand Paola Lenti unveil ‘Alma’ – a lightweight, technically advanced outdoor seating system
By Ali Morris Published
-
These vibrant vases are made from discarded flip flops
Serena Confalonieri’s Jambo collection, in collaboration with Ocean Soles, debuts at Rossana Orlandi during Milan Design Week
By Ifeoluwa Adedeji Published
-
Artist Qualeasha Wood explores the digital glitch to weave stories of the Black female experience
In ‘Malware’, her new London exhibition at Pippy Houldsworth Gallery, the American artist’s tapestries, tuftings and videos delve into the world of internet malfunction
By Hannah Silver Published
-
Basic.Space launches its first IRL shopping event – in an empty West Hollywood mall
With the launch of its first in-person event in LA this weekend, the e-commerce platform is looking to bring collectible design to a whole new audience
By Adrian Madlener Published
-
Design Miami 2024 is alive with possibility: here are 14 things to see
Design Miami 2024 opens 4-8 December – let Wallpaper* guide you to the highlights, from dazzling installations to plump sofas and anthropomorphic sculptures
By Ali Morris Published
-
Nendo’s collaborations with Kyoto artisans go on view in New York
‘Nendo sees Kyoto’ is on view at Friedman Benda (until 15 October 2022), showcasing the design studio's collaboration with six artisans specialised in ancient Japanese crafts
By Pei-Ru Keh Last updated
-
Italian craftsmanship comes to Los Angeles in this eclectic Venice Canals apartment
Boffi Los Angeles celebrates a juxtaposition of texture throughout a waterside bolthole
By Hannah Silver Last updated
-
Design Miami/Basel 2022 explores the Golden Age
Design Miami/Basel 2022, led by curatorial director Maria Cristina Didero, offers a positive spin after the unprecedented times of the pandemic, and looks at the history and spirit of design
By Rosa Bertoli Last updated
-
Kvadrat’s flagship New York showrooms encompass colourful design codes
Industrial designer Jonathan Olivares and architect Vincent Van Duysen have worked with Danish textile brand Kvadrat on the vast new space, also featuring furniture by Moroso
By Hannah Silver Last updated
-
What to see at New York Design Week 2022
Discover Wallpaper’s highlights from New York Design Week 2022 (10 – 20 May 2022): the fairs, exhibitions and design openings to discover
By Pei-Ru Keh Last updated
-
Colour defines LA ceramics studio and showroom of Bari Ziperstein
Step inside the multifunctional ceramics studio, office and showroom of designer and artist Bari Ziperstein, designed by local firm Foss Hildreth
By Pei-Ru Keh Last updated