We had the good fortune of connecting with Victoria Cho and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Victoria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As far back as I can remember, my parents always ran their own business, so I think entrepreneurship has been ingrained in me from my upbringing. I started Metalepsis, a concept-driven jewelry business, in early 2018, and this year I launched my interior design business under Studio Piola. The idea of running my own business comes to me very naturally. While it doesn’t mean I’m great at it (yet!), I thrive on having a purpose and passion that I believe can eventually become a successful venture.

What should our readers know about your business?
Both Metalepsis, my concept-driven jewelry line, and Studio Piola, interior design practice, are extensions of my background in architecture and my passion for art, design and natural wonders and exploring how these elements intersect in unique ways. Metalepsis focuses on creating pieces that are unexpected and timeless with a strong architectural language. Each collection is inspired by different architectural movements, artists, and natural phenomenon.
With Studio Piola, the design approach is similar in some ways, but the process is quite distinct. Designing spaces goes beyond creating beautiful environments; it involves crafting deeply personal and reflective experiences that tell the client’s story and meet their needs. My architectural background enables me to approach each project holistically, considering not just the decorative elements but also how architecture and interiors work together to create a cohesive experience. This ensures that spaces not only evoke emotions but also integrate good functional design into everyday life.
With both businesses, what excites me the most is the transformation process—seeing an idea evolve from a sketch into a tangible, beautiful object or space that brings joy and meaning to someone’s life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, we can definitely pack that week long with some amazing food and fun times. LA does not disappoint when it comes to food! Some architectural gems that I love around LA and simply a great way to spend the day: Neutra VDL Studio, iconic Getty Museum, Hauser & Wirth in Arts District, Huntington Garden. If you plan in advance, Eames house tour is well worth it!
Current favorite hike that my toddler will also enjoy, not crowded with lots of shade is El Prieto Canyon in Altadena. There’s a creek along where you can relax, have some snacks and dip your feet to cool down. Another great one is Elysian Park west loop. This one offers a pretty nice view of of Downtown.
For drinks and dinner, I love Cafe Triste in Chinatown, and then I’d head to Lasita for some amazing Filipino food. They also have some great natural wines! There are few other wine bars that I love, Justine in Frogtown and Dada in Echo park.
We also love Shins Pizza for an easy dinner with our toddler, or if you fancy some Portuguese tapas, head to Barra Santos which is next door.
Some of my favorite asian restaurants are Yang’s kitchen, Ding Tai Fung, hands down for best dumplings, and Chung Kiwa for best cold buckwheat noodles (nengnyon). And finally, Holbox is the best for Mexican seafood.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I couldn’t be where I am today without my family’s unconditional support. My husband has been my number one fan and supporter, so here is a big shoutout to him. I’ve been lucky to have incredible friends who have stood by my side throughout all these years and supported me through several transitional phases in my life. Many are in the creative field, so they have often been able to share their own talents and resources with me. Unrelated to my business or creative work, but as a recent mom, the Atwater Village Mom’s Group has been such an incredible resource and support group for a new mom, so here goes another shoutout to this tribe of kick-ass moms.

Website: www.studio-piola.com

Instagram: @studiopiola

Other: @MetalepsisProjects MetalepsisProjects.com 

Image Credits
Photo credit: Hatnim Lee, Ian robertson, Mia Krystyna.

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