Design Commune

Design Commune reveals the evolution of Roman Alonso and Steven Johanknecht’s acclaimed design studio, rooted firmly in the California aesthetic, ethos, and lifestyle.

With an introduction by Matt Tyrnauer and in conversation with Mayer Rus

“Packed with ideas: Think poppy Josef Frank textiles, botanical Marthe Armitage wallpapers, and rich woodwork.” ―Martha Stewart Living

Truly multidisciplinary in practice, Commune has, since its inception in 2004, tackled all areas of design. The work featured in this book highlights all disciplines that Commune engages in, including:

• Private interior design
• Commercial interior spaces
• Artist collaborations
• Product designs
• Packaging
• Graphics
• And more

“Everybody has a voice, and just by recognizing that, the product is so much better in the end,” says Roman Alonso about the work at Commune, whose team he leads along with Steven Johanknecht. But there is one caveat about their work, he says. “Check the ego and the lawyer at the door, because otherwise you will not get a good product.” With the ethos that focuses on artistry, their group has been successful, and their work is undeniably beautiful.

Its projects share many common threads, such as the influence of handcrafted materials, but each remains deeply personal and unique. Though in Los Angeles, the designers at Commune come from around the country, and around the world, and bring an artist’s perspective to their business and their style. They provide a collaboration that is truly at the crossroads between commerce and art.

Oversize and overflowing with full-color photographs showcasing color and ideas, this is a book that will inspire designers with its variety, its color, and its practical artistry.

Roman Alonso and Steven Johanknecht are cofounders and principals at Commune Design. They first met while working at Barneys New York, when Alonso was director of corporate PR and Johanknecht was vice president of display and store design. Previous to Commune they had long careers in design, fashion, retail, and marketing, as well as magazine and book publishing.