From Tokyo to Tinseltown: Kiko Kostadinov Opens First Los Angeles Boutique
A buzz of excitement crackles through the Melrose Hill neighborhood as Kiko Kostadinov, the London-based Bulgarian designer, unveils his very first Los Angeles boutique. This new outpost, located at 725 N Western Avenue, marks the latest chapter in Kostadinov’s global expansion following the debut of his flagship store in Tokyo earlier this year.
Melrose Hill itself is experiencing a renaissance. Once a hub for furniture warehouses, the area has transformed into a haven for high-end art galleries. Pioneering the movement was Morán Morán, which materialized in 2008, followed by heavy hitters like David Zwirner, Clearing, Sargent’s Daughters West, and Southern Guild. This influx of artistry has attracted a wave of trendy hotspots, cementing Melrose Hill’s place on the Los Angeles cultural map.
Nestled beside Café Telegramal and its adjacent restaurant Etra, Kostadinov’s new store joins a vibrant community. His boutique stands on a street affectionately dubbed a "village" for creators, where the legendary artist Ed Ruscha once resided. This artistic tapestry also includes the talent of tattoo artist Noah Lee, a ceramists’ studio, and soon, the jewelry brand Roseark, opening their second Los Angeles location.
Guided by his friend Ali Morán, founder of Morán Morán, Kostadinov meticulously chose an Art Deco gem from 1924 to house his creative vision. Renowned artist Ryan Trecartin, lending his distinct aesthetic, has transformed the intimate space into a captivating brand experience.
"The store is a continuation of the visual and conceptual language developed for Tokyo by Trecartin," explained Kostadinov’s team. “Once again, the artist will present a visual narrative unveiled in two parts. The project’s first iteration will exist as a production proxy where the artist will present material explorations and spatial studies that echo the ‘in production’ phase of set building. Viewers will have the opportunity to engage with phase one of the installation – Draft Settings – while Trecartin works with local Los Angeles-based artisans on the construction of the permanent installation set to follow Spring 2025.”
Stepping into the Los Angeles store, visitors are greeted by a green carpet reminiscent of a football field. Striking industrial racks lined with plastic honeycomb structures showcase Otto 958, Kostadinov’s collaborative brand with Morán Morán Gallery.
The collection features coveted caps, spotted throughout this year’s prestigious art festivals like Art Basel and Frieze, rugby crewnecks, and sneakers created in collaboration with Asics.
Theकार्गो shorts and trousers, cropped jackets and jackets with bags, long coats,
The array of seasonal pieces, including upcycled staples,
handbags,
, is displayed on benches with a distinct gym club aesthetic.
This new dim-lit boutique is more than just a retail space; it’s a brand experience that immerses visitors in the world of Kiko Kostadinov, a testament to his growing influence on the global style scene.
Luke Woodworth. (Photo: taken from Facebook)
David Koma – Frederic Aranda