THE MARSTON COMPANY decorated the store with commissioned artworks from fine artists and illustrators. Often, themes promoted San Diego history and its natural beauty, and, at times, advocated for public relief and support efforts, as with Belle Baranceanu's Women at War murals. A patron of the arts, George supported the work of artists much as he did architects and landscape designers.

The 190-seat tea room, designed in 1955 by architect Sam Hamill, followed the store's tradition of a focus on arts and culture, and featured 200-to 400-year-old Japanese screens.

The store's targeted ad campaigns over the years reinforced progressive causes. A social justice advocate, George openly supported labor's right to organize, pro-labor legislation, protection for children and female workers, and workman's compensation insurance.