Wood was something to be shown off—grain and all—when L.A.’s prewar homes were being built. The paint that covers so much of the city’s old box beams, wainscoting, and crown molding came later. Steven Pallrand and his company, Home Front, restore these architectural details to their original condition, giving the wood a liquid smoothness and a remarkable depth of color. Rather than glopping on stain from a can, Home Front applies multiple layers of color by using aniline dyes and tinted varnishes. The effect is rich and dazzling. The company also has a supply of antique hardware to go with your revived interior and, should the project grow, a crew of craftspeople who focus on masonry, tiling, and millwork. » 323-732-4663.