Had a girlfriend not told me about Zschoche [pronounced shock-ee] I would have never made the trek to Balboa Island in Newport Beach, but was it well worth it! The very stylish owners, Allison and her new husband Michael have an extraordinary eye for great home and unique items. After talking with them a bit I learned that Michael has a gallery down the street featuring fine art, vintage restored cars and motorcycles and that Allison began working in home wares when she was remodeling her own place.
Zschoche
When I asked about their approach to buying they said they stay away from the L.A. Mart and seek out smaller vendors and independent artisans to maintain the quality and uniqueness that they want for their customers, generally the litmus test is if they would take it home for themselves.
Although their store focuses on home wares they also carry jewelry, small gifts, books, pottery and things that make up good living. I was immediately drawn to their enormous collection of hand-stitched pillows by designer Judy Ross. After inquiring about them, Allison said that they are a great seller for the store and they have in fact surpassed quantities that Barneys carries of her line.
While poking around the store abit, I came upon these interesting "steel balls" under a table that varied in size from a large grapefruit to a large bowling ball. When I inquired about their use, Allison let a bit of her spitfire personality through and with a devilish grin on her face said "well every girl needs a set of steel balls now doesn't she?" Seriously though, she told me they could be used in the garden or in clusters in the home. This past spring when she and Michael married [in no-less-than Frank Sinatra's former home in Palm Springs] they put them in the pool and let them float around adding shine and Palm Springs glimmer to the event.
Even if you are a trek away from Newport Beach I highly suggest going south for the day and make a trip out of it. Have lunch on the water in Newport or Corona Del Mar and stop by the store for a peek. If nothing else, get on their mailing list for their unique catalog that incorporates both home wares, fine Art, and Michael's Motor collection. One of Michael's tid-bits was featured in their Spring Catalog...a 1997 Ferrari F310b 'former Michael Shummacher car 3rd place finisher in the 1997 Italian Grand Prix' for $2,000,000 along side earrings and books. Think how happy both you and your 'fuel channel' loving man will be when you drag him shopping and Michael can chat with him about things with motors while you browse.
If you can't break away then visit them online with their new store [in progress so check back often] and If you're in Arizona you are very lucky... their second store will be opening early next year in Scottsdale.
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store/owners sound a bit expensive/snobby from the article. sorry, not going to visit when there are so many cooler places in the city. and no offense meant, just sounds like this article is kissing butt to an elite place that most AT renters can't afford. would rather poke around silver lake and talk about the best coffee or best new recycling program rather than spending 50 bucks on gas just to talk about a 2million dollar ferrari...
mr/mrs crabby...
This site caters to all sorts of readers, renters, owners ect. It's also nice to have a little fun dreaming even if it wil never be in the picture. Ever heard of Neiman's Xmas Catalog?
Z's owners have price points in their store from 10$ and up it's very approachable for every type of customer. I also wanted to point out that we all hovel in our little areas of town and don't venture out to see other sites and places. If you'd like to stay in Silver Lake that's your option but sometimes folks want to get out a little.
Ya' all need to chill the bleep out --this is suppose to be fun, not a lesson in design torture. jeez already.
I recently moved from Newport Beach to Arizona and make special trips back to the OC just to shop at Zschoche. I am the first to spread the word to friends and family when they are in the area...Zschoche is a must. Michael and Allison have an amazing eye for style and are always one step ahead with the new "it" product. They welcome you with open arms the minute you walk into their store and know their products inside and out. I greatly appreciate their quality, variety, attention to detail, and high standard. I can always count on Zschoche, Michael and Allison have created an amazing store!
Oh my gosh! I absolutely love that store over there on Balboa Island. It kicks ass! Tell miss Granola to get over it, she would probably find something great inside ;)
Finally I can get my house decked out with something unique. So nice to finally see an alternative to the chain stores. Personality oozing all over the store.
This store has a great selection at every price point! I always enjoy dealing with people that are passionate about what they do (and good at it) My husband and I are completely addicted to marvis ginger mint toothpaste now. One of the only stores he wants to go to with me. I could take home everything in there. I can't help but respond to the first comment...take one end of the string and tie it to the door knob and attach the other end to the object lodged in your anus, slam door and repeat if neccessary
Allison and Michaels store reflect not only their great taste for design and accessories but I think they are really fashion forward in regards to where home décor is heading. I make it a point to head down to New Port as often as I can to see what new goodies they have. And I always take friends. They inevitably fall in love with the place and no one leaves without finding something special to purchase. I especially love their candles and last time I couldnt leave without this amazing carry on bag in black vinyl!!!
Congrats to Allison and Michael on all the new stores popping up and I am praying for one in LA soon!!!
I always build in the time to buzz over to take in the charms of Balboa Island and especially the Zschoche's store when I find myself heading down to the OC Performing Arts Center or La Jolla or San Diego for a play or concert. They are my #1 source for gifts. The mix of items is surprising and inspiring ... gets me thinking about my humble abode in new ways, too.
This is a wonderful and progressive store. It is an eye catcher and one can spend an hour and still not absorb everything. We found items you just do not see everywhere. The store is fun, the owners are great to interact with and this is a perfect day trip from just about any place that is driving distance. Most definatley something different. What a treat.