January 12, 2016 – Meg Busacca, of Fashion Times, interviews Kim Rodosky and lists 5 reasons you should shop at 503found!
MB: Could you define the aesthetic direction of 503found in just 3 words? KR: That’s so difficult! I would say: well-made, unique and purposeful.
MB: How would you describe the company culture at 503found? KR: At 503found, we believe that interior design should be driven by the client, not the designer. Our goal is to be very customer service oriented and accommodating to everyone who walks through the door. Oftentimes, the design industry is intense and even unapproachable, but we create a relaxing environment for people to shop and expand their creativity.
MB: What differentiates your retail space amongst other stores today? KR: You can tell 503found is unique from the second you walk in the door. Rather than a traditional retail space, our showroom is located in a refurbished warehouse. It’s the only space of its kind in Orange County, and we were inspired by the eclectic aesthetic you often see in L.A. Our industrial thinking is the perfect backdrop to our unique product offerings, which includes everything from flea market finds, high-end antiques, local artists and items we source from international travels.
MB: What continues to inspire 503found? What facilitates the growth of your creative design-driven retail space? KR: There are so many creative and talented people in the world waiting to be discovered. We’re inspired by the opportunity to provide a platform for gifted designers and artisans to share their craft with others, and support their small businesses. That’s what keeps us motivated to grow and succeed.
MB: Where do you see 503found in the future? KR: I just want us to stay true to our vision of curating a collection that inspires people’s sense of design and empowers them to try new things in their home. We’d love to grow our nationwide audience, but at the same time we aren’t trying to become a superstore.
5 Fabulous Reasons
From local artists and vintage pieces to antiques and international flea markets, 503found offers Orange County’s most diverse collection of home furnishings and decor.
The 503found team is very social and has hosted pop-up dinners, charity shopping nights, book signings, wine nights and other fun events that engage the community and the different designers and artists that the store carries.
503found co-owner and founder Kim Rodosky is an accomplished interior designer and is always available to lend her expertise on everything from incorporating vintage items into your home or how to mix and match accent items.
Because of its constantly evolving inventory and one-of-a-kind items, the 503found showroom looks different every time you visit. So if that vintage rug or antique lamp catches your eye, grab it fast, because you might not see it again.
503found makes design fun and approachable for professional interior designers and homeowners alike. Whether you’re looking to revamping your whole home or just want to browse the showroom for inspiration, the door is always open.
Behind the Interview: A Conversation with Kim Rodosky
In this exclusive interview with Fashion Times, Kim Rodosky opens up about the philosophy that drives 503found. She emphasizes that the store is not just a retail space, but a community hub where creativity and approachability reign. Kim’s passion for well-made, unique, and purposeful design is palpable, and it’s clear that every piece in the showroom has been chosen with intention. Her background as an interior designer informs her curatorial eye, ensuring that 503found offers more than just furniture—it offers inspiration.
Kim’s commitment to a client-driven approach sets 503found apart in an industry that can often feel intimidating. By fostering a relaxing environment, she invites customers to explore their own design sensibilities without pressure. This philosophy extends beyond the showroom floor; it’s woven into every event, collaboration, and community initiative that 503found undertakes.
Why These 5 Reasons Matter
The Fashion Times article highlights five compelling reasons to visit 503found, but each reason carries deeper significance for the local community. The diverse collection—from local artists to international flea market finds—ensures that every visit offers something new. This constant evolution not only keeps the showroom fresh but also supports a wide network of artisans and small businesses.
The social events hosted by 503found, such as pop-up dinners and charity shopping nights, are more than just fun gatherings; they are opportunities for the community to connect with designers and artists in meaningful ways. These events reflect the store’s commitment to being a cultural hub in Orange County, where creativity and commerce intersect.
Kim’s availability to offer design expertise is a rare and valuable resource. Whether you’re a seasoned interior designer or a homeowner looking to refresh a single room, her guidance can help you incorporate vintage and unique pieces into your space with confidence. This personalized touch reinforces the store’s customer-first ethos.
The 503found Experience: More Than a Store
Walking into 503found is an experience in itself. The refurbished warehouse setting, with its industrial backdrop, immediately signals that this is not your average furniture store. The eclectic aesthetic, inspired by L.A.’s design scene, creates an atmosphere that is both edgy and welcoming. It’s a space where you can linger, explore, and imagine the possibilities for your own home.
The showroom’s layout is designed to encourage discovery. Unlike traditional retail spaces that follow a predictable pattern, 503found’s ever-changing inventory means that each visit feels like a treasure hunt. You might find a vintage rug that perfectly anchors your living room, or a piece of local art that speaks to your soul. The thrill of the find is part of the appeal, and it’s why customers return again and again.
Community Impact and Giving Back
503found’s commitment to community extends beyond its walls. The store actively engages in giving back initiatives, partnering with local charities and organizations to make a positive impact. These efforts are a natural extension of the store’s philosophy: design should be accessible, and success should be shared.
By hosting charity shopping nights and other fundraising events, 503found provides a platform for local causes while also offering customers a chance to shop with purpose. This blend of commerce and philanthropy strengthens the bond between the store and the community it serves. It’s a model that other retailers could learn from, and it’s one of the many reasons why 503found has become a beloved fixture in Orange County.
Looking Ahead: The Future of 503found
As Kim mentioned in the interview, the future of 503found is about staying true to its vision. The goal is not to become a superstore, but to continue curating a collection that inspires and empowers. This focus on quality over quantity ensures that the store remains a destination for those seeking something truly special.
The growth of 503found’s nationwide audience is a testament to the store’s unique appeal. Yet, even as the brand expands, the core values remain unchanged: well-made, unique, and purposeful design, delivered with exceptional customer service. Whether you’re a local or a visitor from afar, 503found welcomes you to explore, discover, and be inspired.
For more about the store’s story, visit our About page, or learn about our Community initiatives and the talented Designers we work with.