Images and reporting by Carren Jao

Echo Park couple Benjamin Luddy and Makoto Mizutani are the duo behind Scout Regalia, a name that was intentionally dreamed up to evoke visions of loyalty, integrity and warmth. "It evokes our aesthetic and what we're interested in:" Mizutani explains, "Looking at ways that we can create something that's both clean and functional, not ornamental." Adds Luddy, "The name rings a bell with a humble version of modernism."

True to their inspiration, Scout Regalia's creations have a certain integrity about them. The design studio works a lot with locally-sourced wood. At this year's Dwell on Design Remodelista Market, the couple showcased their Garden Kit made of FSC-certified redwood with baked enamel heavy gauge steel brackets that add a nice pop of color to the planter. Over time, the wood will acquire a gray patina, contrasting well with the colorful metal bracket.

The couple have also recently released a beautiful FSC-certified White Oak Table Set that borrows from the classic picnic table silhouette, but with a bold streak of linear color running through. Made to order, using enameled aluminum allows customers can choose from over 200 different colors.

Image courtesy of Scout Regalia

"We really love beauty and utility," says Luddy. We do too and this couple are doing a great job at bringing both to life.