They say you can’t do it all, but Francesca Grace might just be the exception to the rule. After launching a successful interior design firm in her early 20s, she became one of Los Angeles’ preeminent real estate stagers, showcased her talent on HGTV and started a furniture line. Now she’s done it again—opening a brick-and-mortar store in Silver Lake called Somme and an online shop of the same name. Located at 3902 W Sunset Blvd in the in Sunset Junction, the boutique features both Grace’s line and a selection of curated decor.
Here’s a look inside the chic shop.
Graceful Retail
After her previous ventures, Grace tells me this step felt like a natural progression. “I’ve been designing my own custom furniture for my staging company for the past few years, so Somme was a natural next step for me. I’ve always wanted to create a space where people can step into my world—where they can be surrounded by pieces that feel soulful, layered, and a little unexpected. Staging homes is about storytelling, but I wanted a space where people could take home pieces that bring that same energy into their own lives.”
While opening up a store wasn’t at the top of the designer’s mind, there was something that felt right to her about the location. “I had noticed this space that had been vacant for a while smack dab in the middle of Sunset Junction and knew I wanted to snap it up,” reveals the designer.
“The store is in Silver Lake, right next to La Colombe, which felt like the perfect spot. Silver Lake has this effortlessly cool, creative energy—it’s a place where people really appreciate design, vintage, and things with a story. I wanted Somme to feel like a natural extension of that—like a hidden gem that fits seamlessly into the neighborhood but still has its own distinct point of view.”
The Space
Generously sized, the boutique is 1746 square feet. Grace didn’t have to do a lot of work to it (which is ideal considering the permitting process in Los Angeles), and its character—much like the architectural vibe of the entire neighborhood—was a natural fit for her concept. “The space itself has so much character, high ceilings, and beautiful brickwork, and I loved the idea of building on that, layering in pieces that feel soulful and unexpected.”
She approached designing the store the same way she does most interiors—mixing eras, textures, and moods. “I wanted to create something that feels both curated and effortless. I wanted it to feel like stepping into a collector’s home where every piece has a story,” shares the designer.
Featuring a moody eggplant paint for the walls, Grace’s was to create a cozy spot for customers to explore. “We have several different vignettes throughout the store displaying our custom furniture. It’s still intimate but layered—every inch is intentional. I didn’t want something too sprawling; I wanted it to feel personal and immersive, like a treasure hunt.”
The Goods
The furniture features the designer’s signature bed line. The rest is a selection of curated objects, custom pieces, and vintage finds. “I spend hours sourcing and searching for amazing artisans. At the heart of it, I just follow my gut. If something stops me in my tracks, I know it’s right. I’m drawn to pieces with personality—things that feel unexpected and a little offbeat,” she says.
Grace’s goal for Somme is to a be treasure trove of items that aren’t easily found elsewhere. “It’s a mix of sourcing vintage, working with independent makers, and showcasing my custom pieces that are exclusive to Somme.”
Grace’s Picks
While she personally curates all of the store’s merchandise, Grace does have a few favorite items.
“Lately, I’ve been loving these ceramic works we have from The Rolling and The Stoned, a London-based artist who makes these really sexy ashtrays and espresso cups decked out in fake cigarettes, love notes, and other funky objects. I also love our current pillow and throw blanket selection. Stripes, ruffles, sheep—you name it, we’ve got a pillow or blanket that’s got it.”
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