Architectural Digest recently spotlighted a remarkable restoration project that exemplifies thoughtful preservation. Los Angeles-based Nono Studio drew inspiration from jumoku iseki, the Japanese practice of carefully relocating ancient trees rather than cutting them down for development. This philosophy guided their approach to a deteriorating 1930s hunting cabin in Mount Washington's Moon Canyon. (Photography by William Jess Laird)
The house was nearly sliding off the hillside when architects Susannah Stopford and Alejandra Murillo discovered it. Despite structural fragility demanding complete renovation, the home's original pine and cedar paneling remained intact, along with stained glass details added by a CalArts student in the 1970s. Rather than demolish, the team employed architectural nemawashi, gradually strengthening the foundation while preserving the structure's essential character.
Nono Studio's design philosophy echoes Isamu Noguchi's belief that thoughtful spaces generate joy through careful attention to materials and craft, so we were delighted that our Oak Lamp and woven Bonnet Light Shades played a key role in the project's lighting scheme.
When something couldn’t be salvaged, Stopford and Murillo sourced new alternatives with care, looking for options locally. "It’s a way to meet our sustainability goals but also to highlight craftspeople." - Vaishnavi Nayel Talawadekar for Architectural Digest.
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Our light shades are handwoven from elephant grass by SWOPA, a women's organization in northern Ghana dedicated to preserving traditional craft knowledge. The elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) grows naturally along West African riverbanks and streams. Its long, sturdy fibers create lightweight weaves that diffuse light beautifully—qualities that aligned perfectly with the restored home's emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship.
The project demonstrates how contemporary design can honor both place and craft traditions. By choosing handwoven lighting alongside preserved architectural elements, Nono Studio created continuity between past and present while supporting artisan communities whose skills might otherwise disappear.
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And you can find all three sizes of our bonnet shades here.
