Legacy: Raymond Enkeboll, Stephen Enkeboll, Ilda Vaja

Click the image above to view a timeline of Enkeboll and architecture through the years.

Raymond Enkeboll

“There is a way of living that has a certain grace and beauty. It is not a constant race for what is next, rather an appreciation of what has come before. There is a depth and quality of experience that is lived and felt— a recognition of what is truly meaningful. These are the feelings I would like my work to inspire.”-Raymond Enkeboll

The Enkeboll Designs tradition of excellence began in 1956 when Raymond Enkeboll’s love for art led him to begin crafting furniture in a small chicken shed located in Venice, California. With wood as his palette, he carved a reputation for producing high-quality and distinguishing furniture.

Since his furniture designs were such a standout in the field, Raymond relocated into a 50,000 square foot manufacturing facility in downtown Los Angeles where the quality and style of his designs earned him a national reputation.

As his acclaim increased, Raymond shifted his design focus from furniture to architectural embellishments made from fine woods such as red oak, hard maple and cherry in order to encompass the home in its entirety. Enkeboll added an extensive collection of boldly designed products including corbels, mantels, onlays, crowns, moldings, arches, panels, columns and many more.

To house his magnificent work, Raymond designed and built an approximately 100,000 square foot castle, featuring tailored applications of Enkeboll products. Over the years, Enkeboll Designs flourished and Raymond became a legend in the design world for the quality, beauty and originality of his wood carved products.

When Raymond passed in 1996, a second generation of Enkebolls continued the tradition of producing premiere architectural woodcarvings, exclusively made in the United States. Today, the company's product line has expanded to include over 500 items crafted by approximately 250 talented and dedicated employees.

The Legacy Continues

Stephen Enkeboll

After his father’s death in 1996, the Enkeboll family, lead by Stephen Enkeboll worked diligently to continue the tradition of supporting the fields of art and architecture. Over the years, Stephen has helped steer the foundation on new courses, increasing its national presence by participating in trade seminars and working with colleges throughout the country.

Ilda Vaja

Ilda Vaja worked alongside Raymond Enkeboll, sharing his vision for creativity and integrity for high-quality art and architecture. For 40 years, a staple at Enkeboll, Ilda’s vast knowledge is key to the growth of the Foundation and its ventures.

An active member of the American Business Women’s Association for more than 25 years, Ilda has also dedicated her time and energy to help create educational opportunities through grants and scholarships given by her chapter.