With Christmas only four days away, there’s still time for last-minute gifts. For insight and gift advice, we enlisted Lauren J. Gregory, founder of Dacha in West Hollywood and Manhattan Beach, for some quick design perspective, her four favorite home gift ideas, and a store tour. (Scroll to the bottom for the video.)
“I absolutely feel a space should be a mix of different things, different natural materials, different periods, different unique items from all over,” explains Gregory, who has worked for the likes of Kelly Wearstler and designed spaces in Austin, Boston, New York, and Los Angeles. “Walking into someone’s home should offer a peek at who they are, their history, personal interests, passions, and travels. It’s so uninteresting to visit a home that looks like it was staged for a catalog shoot. I want to see unusual, imperfect treasures when I go into someone’s home and pieces that tell a story.”
Tell us your design journey.
“I grew up in my mom’s flower shop and always loved being in the store,” says Gregory. “I love the creativity, the freedom, the engagement. Having a store is like welcoming people into your home every day and sharing your aesthetic, your brand, your energy, your passion. I love connecting with people in that way. Even while I worked in corporate retail for Saks 5th Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman in New York and later for Kelly Wearstler in LA, my plan was always to open my own business. The timing felt right when I was ready to start a family since I wanted a flexible schedule and to have my kid(s) with me during the day.”
Do you offer any design services?
“We offer a range of styling services with an emphasis on home decorating,” explains Gregory. “Most of our clients come into Dacha and love the vibe so they ask us to create a similarly curated look for them that feels, eclectic, global, organic, and layered. We help them bring their space to the next level with art, accessories, pillows, and all of the layers that give a home character and soul.”
Your top four gift picks?
Lumira Candle in Cuban Tobacco | $72
“There are notes of cardamom, clove bud, mahogany, musk, and tobacco,” says Gregory of the soy wax candle in a recyclable and reusable vessel.
Photo courtesy of Dacha
Alabaster votive | $60
“It casts a soft glow when used with a candle, but it can also be used as a small vase, pencil cup, or makeup caddy,” says Gregory of the handcarved piece.
Photo courtesy of Dacha
XS Face Pot handmade by ceramicst Corina Bilandzija for Dacha | $135 each
“Each ceramic pot is unique and full of character,” says Gregory.
Photo courtesy of Dacha
Terra Bruciata bracelet by Maddalena Bearzi | $248
One-of-a-kind oxidized brass and copper bracelets inspired by the wildfires in the American West.
