Why partner in the design process? The Case for Creative Partnership More Than a Manufacturer

Over the years, we’ve often highlighted customization as a defining feature of our work. But more than anything, customization reflects our ability to respond to evolving needs, to shifts in the design process, and to the individual vision of each designer we work with.

Today, designers are asking for more than a set of standard options. They’re looking for creative collaboration. They want to shape pieces that reflect the specific needs of their clients and the distinct character of their projects. Often, this means reimagining one of our existing silhouettes: softening a squared arm, changing the pitch, adjusting the depth, or modifying stitch lines to suit a particular use or aesthetic.

Customized Dali and Bounce ottoman for Designer Jeffery Designs, Pasadena showcase house

These kinds of requests don’t fall outside the norm; they point to a broader shift in the industry. As designers continue to stretch creatively, the demand for flexibility, responsiveness, and shared authorship continues to grow. At Nathan Anthony, we’ve built our process around meeting that demand with care and precision.

Sarah chair, customizing wood finish adding trim application
Sarah chair, customizing wood finish adding trim application

Our ability to do that is rooted in how we work. Because we design and manufacture in Los Angeles, we’re able to move quickly, maintain quality at every step, and stay closely aligned with our clients from initial concept to final delivery. That structure allows us to say yes more often – and to deliver on that yes without compromise.

As the year winds down, I’ve been thinking about the projects that left a lasting impression. They weren’t just successful because they were beautiful, but because they were built in partnership. They involved trust, clear communication, shared problem-solving, and a mutual commitment to doing the work well.

Nadia chair with plaid fabric: 4-way pattern matching (very complicated to execute)
Nadia chair with plaid fabric: 4-way pattern matching (very complicated to execute)

This kind of collaboration continues to shape how we think, how we work, and how we grow. It’s the part of the process I find most fulfilling, and it’s one of the values we remain most committed to in the months ahead.

Full custom bed for an Interior designer in South Hampton

If you’re interested in exploring how customization can support your design work, we’ve created a resource that may be helpful. Elevate Interior Design Projects with Customized Upholstery offers practical guidance, inspiration, and insights from our team on tailoring pieces to suit specific spaces and client needs. To request a copy, simply reach out to our Custom Design Concierge™ Team. They’re available to answer questions about sizing, COM/COL, finishes, and modifications—and to support you in finding the right solution for each project.

Tina Nicole
Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer
Nathan Anthony Furniture, Los Angeles

P.S. Let’s stay connected! Find us on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Pinterest. Check out our latest videos on YouTube, and follow #nathananthony, #nathananthonyfurniture, and #upholsteryart. We’d love to engage with you!

Made with Love: A Los Angeles Legacy

Nathan Anthony isn’t just a brand born in LA—it’s a family business founded on passion, precision, and the belief that furniture should be more than just beautiful. It should be crafted with care and built to last.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry

Being LA-made isn’t just about location—it’s a philosophy shaped by the city’s rich culture of creativity and craftsmanship. This spirit continues to inspire how we approach manufacturing today, ensuring that every piece we create reflects the innovation and artistry that defines Los Angeles. Manufacturing locally allows us to be hands-on in every stage of production. Unlike mass-market manufacturers and furniture importers, we have more control over our costs and we don’t cut corners or compromise on quality. Instead, we empower our artisans to perfect each stitch, refine every detail, and push the boundaries of design.

The Broad Museum, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler
LA graffiti art

In 2016, Khai took this commitment further by implementing a proprietary lean manufacturing system inspired by the Toyota Production System. This shift revolutionized our workflow—reducing waste, improving efficiency, and creating an environment where craftsmanship thrives. Every piece is made to order, ensuring the highest quality while embracing sustainability.

Khai working on the lean process with the team
Khai working on the lean process with the team

Being based in LA also means standing with our community in its toughest moments. Last month’s wildfires left lasting scars on landscapes we cherish. Like so many, we faced the fear of evacuation, the uncertainty of what would come next, and the heartbreaking loss of familiar places.

la can do

Yet, through adversity, our city’s resilience, creativity, and compassion shone through—values that also drive our approach to craftsmanship. We believe that great design has the power to rebuild, restore, and provide comfort, just as our community has shown strength in rebuilding after hardship. We are incredibly proud to be part of LACanDo.org, a collective of designers and manufacturers working together to furnish homes for those displaced by the fires. This initiative reaffirms what we’ve always believed: design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces of comfort, healing, and home.

To bring our LA-crafted designs into your next project, contact our Custom Design Concierge™ team.

Tina Nicole

Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer

Nathan Anthony Furniture, Los Angeles

P.S. Let’s stay connected! Find us on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Pinterest. Check out our latest videos on YouTube, and follow #nathananthony, #nathananthonyfurniture, and #upholsteryart. We’d love to engage with you!