Frequently Asked Questions

PRODUCTS + MATERIALS

How heavy is Zen Shack furniture?

Our pieces are designed to have the visual permanence and substantial feel of cast concrete without the extreme weight typically associated with solid concrete furniture.

We use custom lightweight concrete mixes and reinforcement methods to reduce weight while maintaining strength and material character. Exact weights vary by piece, size, and configuration; approximate weights are listed on individual product pages when available.

For custom work, we consider access, placement, and installation requirements during the design process.

Are your pieces solid concrete?

Our work is individually cast using custom concrete compositions selected for the scale and function of each piece. Depending on the design, pieces may incorporate lightweight aggregates, reinforcement, steel, wood, upholstery, lighting, or other architectural materials.

Rather than treating concrete as a uniform industrial surface, we embrace natural variation in aggregate, texture, tone, and casting character.

Will every piece look exactly like the photographs?

No two castings are identical.

Subtle variations in color, aggregate distribution, pores, texture, and surface character are inherent to hand-cast concrete and are considered part of the material rather than defects.

For exposed-aggregate pieces, stone distribution and pattern will naturally vary from one casting to another.

Can your furniture be used outdoors?

Many of our concrete pieces are designed for both interior and exterior environments. Suitability varies by product, finish, lighting components, upholstery, and site conditions.

If you are specifying a piece for permanent outdoor use, let us know when ordering so we can recommend the appropriate materials and finish.


ORDERING + CUSTOM WORK

Do you offer custom pieces?

Yes. Custom work is a central part of the studio.

We collaborate with homeowners, architects, interior designers, landscape designers, and builders on furniture, lighting, architectural elements, garden pieces, built-ins, and site-specific concrete forms.

Projects may begin with an existing Zen Shack design that is adapted for a particular setting or with an entirely new concept developed for the project.

Can pieces from the collection be customized?

Yes. Depending on the design, options may include:

Because our work is produced in small quantities and often fabricated individually, we can accommodate a level of customization that would be difficult with mass-produced furniture.

How does a custom commission work?

Start by contacting us with a description of the project, approximate dimensions, location, desired timeline, and any reference images or architectural drawings you may have.

From there, we can discuss the concept, materials, feasibility, pricing, fabrication, delivery, and installation.

For larger commissions, a deposit is typically required before fabrication begins.

How much do custom pieces cost?

Pricing depends on size, material, complexity, customization, quantity, fabrication requirements, and installation.

Where possible, standard collection pricing is listed online. Custom work is quoted individually after we understand the scope of the project.

If you have a target budget, sharing it early helps us determine the most appropriate approach.

Do you offer trade pricing?

Trade inquiries from architects, interior designers, landscape designers, builders, developers, and hospitality professionals are welcome.

Contact us with your company information, project details, quantities, and products of interest for trade pricing and specification assistance.

What are your lead times?

Lead times vary by product and project scope.

Smaller objects may be available immediately or produced in short batches, while furniture and custom pieces generally require additional fabrication time. Current estimated lead times are listed with individual products or provided with your quote.

If you are working toward a specific installation date, contact us before ordering.


SHIPPING + DELIVERY

Do you ship?

Yes, shipping availability depends on the size and weight of the piece.

Smaller Household Forms and selected objects can be shipped directly. Larger furniture, lighting, and architectural pieces may require specialized freight, local delivery, or installation.

Contact us for a shipping quote if a product does not show a standard shipping option at checkout.

Do you offer local delivery in Los Angeles?

Yes. Local delivery is available for many pieces throughout Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

Delivery pricing depends on the size and weight of the piece, destination, site access, stairs, and whether placement or installation is required.

Do you offer white-glove delivery and installation?

Yes. For furniture and larger commissions, we can coordinate delivery, placement, assembly, and installation as required by the project.

Because many of our pieces are architectural in scale, we recommend providing information about stairs, doorways, elevators, slopes, parking, and other access conditions before delivery.

For site-specific projects, installation requirements are incorporated into the project scope and quote.

Can you deliver outside Los Angeles?

Yes. Depending on the piece, we can arrange regional delivery or freight beyond Los Angeles.

Larger or unusually heavy pieces are quoted individually so we can determine the safest and most economical shipping method.


CARE + OWNERSHIP

How should I care for concrete furniture?

For routine cleaning, use a soft cloth with water and a mild, non-abrasive soap. Avoid harsh acids, abrasive cleaners, bleach, and aggressive scrubbing unless specifically recommended for your piece.

Concrete is a mineral material and will naturally develop subtle variation with use and age. Care instructions specific to the finish are provided when appropriate.

Can concrete stain or patina over time?

Like natural stone, concrete can respond to moisture, oils, acids, sunlight, and everyday use.

Our finishes are selected to help protect the material while preserving its natural appearance, but concrete should not be treated as an entirely maintenance-free synthetic surface. Subtle changes over time can become part of the character of the piece.

What happens if my order arrives damaged?

Please inspect shipped pieces promptly upon arrival.

If an item appears to have been damaged in transit, photograph the packaging and the piece before discarding any materials and contact Zen Shack Studios as soon as possible so we can determine the appropriate next step.

Can I see a piece before purchasing?

Availability varies because many pieces are produced individually or installed directly into projects.

For local clients, architects, and designers, contact us regarding current pieces, material samples, finish references, or studio visits.


STILL HAVE A QUESTION?

For product specifications, custom commissions, trade inquiries, delivery, or installation:

zenshackstudios@gmail.com
@zenshackstudios

Zen Shack Studios
Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles