Coco Republic is proud to introduce renowned Los Angeles design studio lawson-fenning to Australia, unveiled through an exclusive collaboration grounded in craft, materiality and relaxed sophistication.
Rooted in California’s modernist heritage and an innate connection to coastal living, the collection brings sculptural silhouettes, honest materials and enduring design into dialogue with the way Australians live today - effortlessly refined yet deeply considered.
We spoke with Glenn Lawson and Grant Fenning about the foundations of the brand, their design ethos, and the inspiration behind the collaboration.
Tell us about lawson-fenning - its origins, design philosophy and ideals.
lawson-fenning was founded in Los Angeles out of a desire to create furniture that is enduring and has coastal point of view that supports the way people live. From the beginning, we have been rooted in a belief in craft, celebrating the makers who bring our designs to life, and in creating heirloom quality pieces that feel as laid back and liveable as they are beautiful. Our philosophy blends modern lines with natural materials and a respect for the artistry of the past, always designed with the needs of today in mind.
lawson-fenning is known for blending contemporary and vintage elements. How do you strike that balance while keeping designs timeless?
We start with proportion and form. If those are right, the piece will endure. Vintage references are never literal for us. They are more about studying what made certain designs last. The restraint, the craftsmanship, the clarity of intent. We pair that understanding with contemporary needs and materials. The balance comes from editing. Removing anything that feels overly decorative or trend-driven and letting the structure and materiality do the work. Timelessness, for us, is about confidence and quietness rather than nostalgia.
How did the partnership come about, and what made Coco Republic the perfect creative partner?
We admire Coco Republic’s ability to curate spaces that are both aspirational and deeply liveable. From the outset, the partnership grew out of shared values - timeless design, craftsmanship and creating pieces that feel current yet enduring. Coco Republic’s reputation for inspiring, thoughtfully designed spaces, combined with its strong presence in Australia, made it a natural partner to introduce our vision to a wider audience. Together, we set out to create a collection that blends modern design while retaining the warmth, materiality and character that define both brands.
What parallels do you see between life in California and Australia, and how are those reflected in the collection?
Both California and Australia have a strong relationship to nature and an appreciation for relaxed sophistication. There is an emphasis on light, openness, and indoor-outdoor living, as well as a cultural comfort with mixing old and new. That parallel is reflected in the collection through grounded forms, generous proportions, and materials that feel honest and tactile. The pieces are designed to anchor a space without overpowering it, allowing rooms to feel calm, considered, and lived in.
What’s your favourite piece from the collection and why?
It’s always difficult to choose, but the Steppe Dining Table stands out. It embodies many of the ideas that define the collection - architectural yet warm, sculptural yet functional. Referencing the vast landscapes of the American West, it feels equally at home in an Australian context. More than a statement piece, it grounds a space and invites people to gather, which is ultimately what great furniture should do.
