What is the history of the studio?

In 1998, Leslie Shapiro Joyal created an intimate furniture gallery to showcase her designs and paintings. An extension of her working studio, she envisioned a space that would enable creative conversations between clients and designer. The Fairfax showroom was originally opened as a resource for architects and designers seeking furniture that was hard to find in Los Angeles at the time, modern yet comfortable furniture that followed the purist philosophy of “less is more.” 

The gallery features collections of pieces which have an understated elegance; the designs are minimal, clean and of rare craftsmanship.  Since its inception, the studio has remained steadfast in its dedication to the use of local suppliers and workshops, with a keen focus on natural materials, preferring and celebrating the purity of line to the excesses of decoration. 

Decades ago, 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. 

Are you open to the public?

Yes, the Fairfax showroom is open to both public and trade.  Appointments are encouraged and can be made through the website or by phone/email. 

Can I customize a piece of furniture?

Yes, most pieces are able to be customized. A surcharge will apply. Please inquire directly with the studio about your specific request. 

The showroom also offers custom design services for select pieces and projects. A design fee will apply. Please inquire directly with the studio about your specific request. 

Want a design from our studio but don’t see it on the website?

Many designs live in our archives. If you are searching for something that isn’t on our site, please reach out to have us conduct a search through our database. We are happy to make past designs available for purchase. 

What wood do you use in your pieces?

Our collections are available in the following solid woods: maple, american walnut, cherry, white oak and alder. We are able to work with specific wood requests. 

What finishes do you offer?

All pieces are hand sanded and finished using clear low VOC finishes.  Custom mixtures are available by contacting the studio. 

What textiles do you use in your pieces?

For ordering simplicity, upholstered pieces are priced using the COM ( customer’s own material ) method. Our prices include upholstery labor. Required yardages for each piece are given, based on 54” plain goods.  

Our standard fabric selections include:
cotton, linen, velvet, mohair, COL ( customer’s own leather ) pricing offered on a per quote basis.

Architects and designers may specify fabric choice from the Knoll or Maharam catalogs. Please email info@shapirojoyalstudio.com for more information regarding fabric customization.

How are your pieces constructed?

Our upholstered pieces are built using the finest materials and workmanship. All items are built with corner blocked hardwood frames and 8 way hand tied springs. Fill choices range from HR foam to 25/75 down/feather.  We also offer synthetic down for those wanting a hypoallergenic option.

How do I care for my Shapiro Joyal Studio piece?

Some guidelines to help protect your furniture investment: 

Avoid harsh direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes. Avoid moisture and always use coasters. 

Should your item require cleaning, use a lint free cloth, very lightly dampened with water, and remove soil, immediately following with a dry lint free cloth. Wipe in the direction of the grain. 

It should be expected that wood with natural finishes will darken or lighten over time, adding to the wonderful patina that makes it exclusively yours. Please allow new pieces to acclimate to their environment over the first few weeks; taking care to allow the wood to cure.  Please rotate items frequently during this phase to avoid discoloration. 

My piece could use some extra TLC. Is there anything I can do?

Should your piece require repair or some TLC, please consider giving it a spa treatment at the studio. We can often arrange a resending and refinishing, based on your specific needs. 

What are your average lead times?

All of our pieces are made to order in Los Angeles. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the time of deposit, plus transit time, for delivery. As each fabrication process is personalized, we cannot guarantee delivery by a certain date, but do our best to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients. Orders must ship within 30 days after notification of completion (unless express permission is given), and if storage is required, full storage costs are the responsibility of the customer.

Where do you ship to?

We ship throughout the contiguous United States. The final cost of delivery is calculated at the time of your order based on number of pieces and final destination. We offer white glove service and installation when applicable. Please note that we are a separate entity to the freight company.

I'm waiting for my piece to be delivered, how should I prepare my space?

Please make sure that all delivery passages and access areas are clear and free of obstacles. Additionally, please make sure that your item will fit through doorways and hallways! We cannot be held responsible for furniture that isn’t deliverable due to obstructions or clearance issues.

Do you carry anything in stock?

There are often a number of items available directly from our Los Angeles studio. Please inquire for inventory and prices. We aim to maintain in stock items listed here.