In January 2025, a significant wildfire event swept through regions of Los Angeles, resulting in widespread devastation. Homes were destroyed, and thousands of residents were displaced, creating an urgent humanitarian crisis. In response, local organizations and community leaders have mobilized to provide support and relief to those affected. A notable contributor to this movement is Woven, an L.A.-based company recognized for its artisanal rugs and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The Chief Executive Officer and Co-Creative Director of Woven, Sam Moradzadeh, reflects on the profound impact the fires had on the community he calls home. Having lived in Los Angeles for nearly his entire life, Moradzadeh felt a strong imperative to assist those affected. He stated, “After seeing the devastation, I really wanted to help. I felt like the least we could do is offer some comfort with having a rug in as many homes as we can get to the families that are affected.”
Rugs often serve as more than mere decor; they can elevate a space providing warmth and comfort, essential for individuals who have experienced significant loss. “There’s something about a rug that gives you a sense of home and a sense of place,” Moradzadeh noted, emphasizing the psychological benefits that a simple piece of home furnishings can provide to those coping with trauma.
To implement their humanitarian effort effectively, Woven collaborated with established community initiatives that were already engaged in providing direct relief. A key partnership was formed with the Soft Landing Project initiated by House of Honey, a movement focused on providing prompt assistance to displaced families. Initial donations from Woven comprised around 100 rugs, which laid the groundwork for further contributions.
Following this, Woven expanded its outreach by teaming up with Zello Support, another local relief initiative, enabling them to deliver nearly 200 additional rugs directly to families impacted by the fires. In total, Woven has donated over 300 rugs thus far, with plans to increase that number. Moradzadeh has set a goal of donating at least 500 rugs, expressing his hope to extend support to as many households as possible. Families needing assistance can reach out to Woven, where requests are carefully vetted to ensure that aid reaches those genuinely in need.
The response from the broader design community in Los Angeles has been resounding. Initiatives such as The Expert’s Rebuild Hotline provide free consultations and distribute furnishings from local designers. Additionally, House of Honey’s ongoing efforts continue to gather essential items like furniture, lighting, and art to support affected families.
Moradzadeh emphasizes the significance of these collective efforts, underscoring a communal spirit that pervades Los Angeles: “It’s my city—it’s a city I grew up in. I just want to do whatever I can on my end to help out.” The work done by Woven and its partners showcases the ability of local businesses to unite in times of crisis, demonstrating a commitment to community resilience and recovery. This effort underscores a crucial understanding that in the face of overwhelming challenges, collective action can foster significant healing and restoration.
