What makes a purchase “worth it”? The answer is different for everybody, so we’re asking some of the coolest, most shopping-savvy people we know—from small-business owners to designers, artists, and actors—to tell us the story behind one of their most prized possessions.
Who?
As a fourth-generation Angeleno, Stephanie Feinerman grew up with two major influences: design and entertainment. So when she returned to Los Angeles after earning an art history degree on the East Coast, she combined these passions by pursuing a career in television and film set decoration. After finding success in the field, working on shows like Shameless and Transparent, she slowly began to take on interior design projects on the side. She started by helping out friends and her business snowballed from there.
Now she juggles both jobs full-time. Though Stephanie loves creating spaces professionally, she had always dreamed of applying her skills to her own home. She was able to realize that goal when she and her husband, Adam Reuss, purchased a 1957 Valley Glen ranch house last year. With post-and-beam architecture, a sled roof, big windows, and bookcase pony walls, the place has all the midcentury character they were seeking. Most importantly, the airy and white interior is a perfect backdrop for their collection of vintage heirlooms.
What?
Stephanie’s most cherished belonging is the groovy curved sectional she inherited from her grandparents, who had it custom made for their Pacific Palisades house in the 1960s. “It sat in a corner, so it was perfectly aligned with their home,” Stephanie explains. “It really was fabulous, but it wasn’t used very much. We use it every day here. It’s such a treasure and actually pretty comfortable too.”
The sofa’s distinct and rounded L-shape is only upstaged by its psychedelic orange-and-purple Schumacher fabric, which has since been discontinued. “I’m so glad that it’s in fantastic condition because I would’ve been so sad if it would’ve had to get reupholstered,” Stephanie shares. “The fabric is just bonkers. It’s so good.” Details like subtly-tufted seat cushions, piping along the edges, and a dark wood base complete the special piece.
