Marin Magazine April 2024

Spring Into Color

ELEVATED SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

It’s all about the good life.

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Suite 101 | San Rafael, CA

Emily

YOU GOT YOUR TEEN THIS FAR, WHY NOT TAKE ON ANOTHER?

There are foster kids of all ages in Marin that need temporary homes until their parents can get back on their feet.

If you can help, please visit FosterOurFutureMarin.org

CONTENTS

52

FEATURES

34

Policy Peril

California’s home insurance crisis explained.

38

Striving for Zero

Part two of our feature series about the collaborative effort to end homelessness in Marin.

44

Small Is Beautiful

A family from Los Angeles is living large in their new 1,600-square-foot home set among Mill Valley’s towering redwoods.

52

Timeless Tradition

A dated ranch is transformed into an elegant abode.

CONTENTS

109

IN MARIN

23 Currents

A wildflower guide, local author events and more.

26 New in Town Store openings throughout the county.

TRAVEL

80 Appellations

Sustainable wineries and restaurant openings in Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

82 Canyon Chronicles

An eco adventure in Zion.

OUT & ABOUT

85 Calendar

A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.

94 Dine

An insider’s guide to dining and food in the Bay Area.

104 On the Scene

Snapshots from events around the county.

MARIN HOME

109 Backstory

In Inverness, a second home is brimming with vibrant hues and eclectic character.

the things you’ve dreamed about. From creating retirement income, to managing your investments and protecting what you’ve earned, I can help guide you toward a successful and secure retirement. Strengthening

GROUP PUBLISHER

Nikki C. Wood

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

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SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

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ACCOUNT MANAGER

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ADVERTISING ART MANAGER

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SALES COORDINATOR

Nicole Peyton

MARKETING ASSOCIATE

Helena Grant

Regional Sales Offices

TAHOE

Leah Bronson lbronson@marinmagazine.com

SONOMA

Lesley Cesare lcesare@marinmagazine.com

NAPA

Sharon Coleman scoleman@marinmagazine.com

NEW YORK

Karen Couture, Couture Marketing 917.821.4429

HAWAII

Destination Marketing 808.739.2200

270 Media Founders

GREEN SEAL CERTIFIED

Stay sustainably at the Green Seal Certified OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort.With stunning ocean views and green sea turtles fronting the resort, all rooms come with OUTRIGGER Zone re-usable metal water bottles. Enjoy complimentary reef-safe sunscreen at the pool and check out Ethan Estess’ 30-foot mural of iconic Diamond Head, made from reclaimed plastic fishing industry rope that washed up on the shores of Hawai‘i.

HAWAI‘I

HOME SWEET HOME

I’ve been planning this letter for about a year. I started a modest home remodel in March 2023, and I envisioned writing a happy, yet slightly exhausted musing of how tough the project had been. The permits, the headaches — you know, the usual things those of us who embark on these “I have a vision” adventures. Instead, I’m starting over. The contractor I hired (breaking the rule about hiring a friend) got sick. After spending my entire budget, I am starting over. I got a spam call the other day asking if I was interested in selling my house, and after two minutes of talking to, I think, a human, they hung up.

What I’m trying to convey is that remodeling and building are not always easy. For me, it’s an art, a science and a leap of faith. And as showcased in this issue, hiring the right team. Architect Heidi Richardson had to do some creative map plotting to adhere to existing giant redwoods and setbacks to create a dream home in Mill Valley, and as Lotus Abrams so eloquently wrote about the Inverness cottage featured on page 109, which was designed for a San Francisco-based wildlife conservationist, “the muted lime shade of the walls, reminiscent of new growth on the foliage outside” were found in Inverness’s natural surroundings. Let’s be real, these amazing homes are not created via a Pinterest board.

One positive aspect I do feel good about is having done my best to reuse materials and donate cabinets, doors and sinks. One would think that with our state’s dedication to sustainability we could be the leader in how gently used building materials are cataloged and easily made available to be recycled. Need a porcelain sink? A yellow interior door? Or a built-in bench?

Check our statewide database. Oh, and perhaps there’s a tax advantage to using the system. A girl can dream. The reality of reusing materials is quite tricky, expensive and time-consuming. I was sad to learn that Ohmega Salvage closed last April — it was such an inspirational treasure trove of unique home materials serving the Bay Area and beyond for over 40 years. However, it’s not easy for these businesses to stay profitable.

Here in Marin we do have a plethora of groups working to bridge the gap between the dumpster and a happy home, such as Make it Home Bay Area, a non-profit furniture bank that provides gently used home goods for transitioning families in need. I love that they have been based at Northgate Mall’s donated space until they find a permanent home, win-win! And even though it’s a national organization, I was a huge fan of the recently closed Goodwill Donation Center in Mill Valley. They were so friendly, and I liked that (according to my most recent donation slip) ninety percent of every dollar donated goes to client services and creating jobs.

In this issue we also have an important article by Carrie Kirby on the challenging environment for home insurance here in California. She dives into the whys and what to dos — while it seems potentially devastating, it’s nice to know we are all in this together. As always, thank you for reading, commenting and being part of our Marin Magazine community.

Mimi Towle

77

775.318

775.434.489

LETTERS

Standing Ovation

I wanted to let you know the article (Couples and Cowboys, February 2024) has inspired so many people. Dance classes have increased 50%! I’m grateful to have shed a little positive energy into the community through you and Marin Magazine.

— Brenda Fischer, Marin County

Severely Disappointed

As usual I was severely disappointed in your article on homelessness in Marin. Just putting the same old stories and statistics are examples of lazy reporting. The IJ newspaper is guilty of this also. If you want to do correct reporting on homelessness you have to clearly state if the person is a drug addict, alcoholic or criminal. Those are the only reasons why people are homeless. If you don't mention them, the stories are useless. The same solution for an alcoholic is not the same for the working poor. Why do I know this? Because I was homeless in Marin for three years and I'm not a drug addict, criminal or alcoholic. I have horror stories about living in shelters and dealing with local agencies. Because stories like these continue to get put in the media I am writing a book. It's called "Trouble in Paradise: How I was homeless in the richest county in the nation."

— David Hall Yancey, Fairfax

Have you checked your foundation recently? Time and saltwater can make concrete, steel, and wood pilings structurally unsound. Our Marine Division carpenters who have been trained as divers perform piling repair and structural upgrades for buildings that are on or over the water. These repairs add to its safety and longevity. If you live over the water, call us today for more information.

MAKE TIME FOR YOUR WELLNESS

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CURRENTS

Wildin’ Out

The ultimate guide to spring wildflwers in West Marin from our friends at MALT.

PHOTOS BY VICTOR VOLTA

Early Bloomers

Wildowers help us mark changes in the seasons. And the most spectacular displays, especially in West Marin, are in the spring when early blooming owers are abundant.

• Ca lifornia buttercup

• Ra nunculus californicus

• Footsteps of spring

• Sanicula arctopoides

• Ho und’s tongue

• Cy noglossum grande

• Mil kmaids

• Cardamine californica

• Red maids

• Calan drinia menziesii

• Su n cup

• Ta raxia ovata

Serpentine Soils

Wildowers are connected to places and one of the key components of place is the soil beneath our feet. The serpentine soil that snakes through hillsides in West Marin is rich in magnesium and surprisingly poor in nitrogen, providing a unique environment in which certain native wildowers thrive.

• Ca lifornia goldelds

• Las thenia californica

• Sho oting star

• Pr imula hendersonii

• Pur ple sanicle

• Sanicula bipinnatida

• Bu tter-and-eggs

• Tr iphysaria eriantha

• Pu rple owl's clover

• Cas tilleja exserta

• Blu e dicks

• Di pterostemon capitatus

LOOK, DON’T TOUCH.

View responsibly by following a few simple guidelines.

1 Never pick wildowers. Please leave them in place.

2Do not illegally dig up wildowers to transplant to your garden.

Pollinators

Wildowers play an important role in healthy ecosystems, providing nectar to robust populations of bees, butteries and hummingbirds. Farmers and ranchers know better than anyone that these pollinators are crucial to California’s agricultural food economy, playing a key role in the production of food, fier and edible oils.

• Tid y tips

• Layia chrysanthemoides

• Ca lifornia poppy

• Eschscholzia californica

• Cream cups

• Pl atystemon californicus

• Pacifi bleeding heart

• Dicentra formosa

• Blue eyed grass

• Sis yrinchium bellum

• Wes tern yarrow

• Achillea millefolium

3Do not enter private property to view wildowers. This especially includes private ranches and farms.

4Be aware of sensitive, overused areas and stay on trails and roads during hikes.

Bay Area events you’ll want to attend

Dare to Dream

UNDER THE STARS

NEW IN TOWN

BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

$150 per ticket. Table sponsorships available rittercenterunderthe stars.org WHEN WHERE

May 16, 5:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Maple Lawn, Elks Lodge, San Rafael, CA

Join Ritter Center for an evening of celebration and support with guest speakers Mayor Kate Colin of San Rafael and Emmywinning reporter Cornell Barnard from ABC7. Enjoy a seated dinner by awardwinning Big Jim’s BBQ, community awards, live music, lawn games, a live auction, and fund-a-need. All funds raised support Ritter Center’s healthcare, housing support and food pantry services.

ARITZIA | CORTE MADERA

The Village

The women’s clothing and accessories retailer has opened its third Bay Area location at The Village at Corte Madera. The new boutique features:

• curated artwork

• a hand-painted mural

• custom-designed furniture

• a feature wall made of marble from Italy. aritizia.com

CALIFORNIA GIRL JEWELRY SAN RAFAEL

Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? marinmagazine.com/arts-events /on-the-scene

The contemporary jewelry boutique owned by a dynamic mother and daughter duo has moved from Strawberry Village to San Rafael. Come for rare, colored gemstone ne jewelry and unique, one-of-a-kind nds. californiagirlfiejewelry.com

TOPDRAWER | LARKSPUR

Marin Country Mart

Looking for a one-stop gift shop? Topdrawer’s inventory of stylish items sourced from independent designers and global brands will denitely t the bill. Visit for a selection of:

• Polaroid cameras

• notebooks & pens

• bags

• sunglasses

• handkerchiefs topdrawershop.com

The scoop on Bay Area events you’ll want to attend

[UPCOMING EVENTS]

STEP UP MARIN! 2024

SPRINGTIME AT THE REDWOODS: CELEBRATING MOTHERS

May 16, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

40 Camino Alto, Mill Valley, CA

WHEN

May 17, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Las Palmas Center, 531 Hamilton Pkwy, Novato, CA

Community Action Marin, the county’s official antipoverty agency, invites you to our 3rd annual signature event featuring live music, scrumptious food, a silent auction, and our Community Courage Award. Join us for an opportunity to listen, learn, and feel the heartbeat of Marin County through the stories and achievements of those we serve as we work to alleviate the causes and consequences of poverty across the county.

$150 per ticket, sponsorships: $1,000-10,000+ camarin.org

/StepUpMarin

Join us at The Redwoods as we honor mothers on Thursday, May 16th! We will be enjoying a cocktail reception, live music, a scrumptious dinner, and a heartwarming program all set on the beautiful patio under the stars. Your participation will help us create a brand-new Memory Care Center, ensuring our beloved residents can age gracefully in the place they call home.

$250 Sponsor, $500 Patron, $1,000 Benefactor theredwoods.org /events

ONE AMAZING COMMUNITY GALA

April 27, 5:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Marin Civic Center Exhibit Hall, San Rafael, CA

The value of education is indisputable. But getting to and through college has never been more complex. For 42+ years, 10,000 Degrees has unlocked student success at scale by giving more students equitable opportunities for a quality college education and career success. Come celebrate our students & alumni at our annual gala and indulge in tantalizing cocktails and delectable hors d’oeuvres, connect with passionate individuals like yourself, rub elbows with 10,000 Degrees alumni and staff, and be uplifted by riveting tales of real-life impact!

$250 per person oneamazingcommunity.org

Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events?

Visit marinmagazine.com/arts-events/on-the-scene

AUTHOR TALK

BY CALEB DAGENHART

Amy Tan is the author of acclaimed novels, including The Joy Luck Club and The Bonesetter’s Daughter. She is a co-producer and co-screenwriter of the lm version of The Joy Luck Club and is on the board of American Bird Conservancy. She lives in Sausalito, California. This book beautifully combines your own illustrations, handwritten notes and typeset text. What was it like to bring together all those elements? Because this was originally a private journal, I had complete freedom to observe, sketch and write spontaneous squibs about what I noticed, what puzzled me, all without concerns over mistakes and my obvious naïveté about birds. The pages were smudged, riddled with coffee stains, cross-outs, bad handwriting and misshapen birds. I am now astonished to see the fun and mess contained in a beautifully designed book.

Your words and drawings are lled with love. Do you remember the rst bird you fell in love with? I was having lunch on the patio and decided to start the long process of luring a hummingbird to eat from a nectar feeder in my hand, guessing it might take a couple of months. Within minutes, the hummingbird landed

The Backyard Bird Chronicles

and was drinking! I studied the overlapping iridescent red feathers on top of his head, the white behind his eye, the beak, his tiny scratchy toes. Like a mother swooning over her newborn, I thought he was perfect in every way.

Birding, drawing and writing all require focused attention. How has paying attention to birds these past few years impacted you? During the pandemic, I was forced to live in the moment, with uncertainty over the future. Yet I never felt cooped up, stir-crazy or bored. I found relevance and freedom watching nature in my own backyard, seeing patterns and details. I now notice more, not just about birds, but also people, their behavior in situations, social groups and circumstances. By being curious about almost anything, I will never be bored.

In 2016, Amy Tan grew overwhelmed by the state of the world. In search of peace, Tan turned toward the natural world just beyond her window and, specically, the birds visiting her yard. What began as an attempt to nd solace turned into something far greater — an opportunity to savor quiet moments during a volatile time, connect to nature in a meaningful way and imagine the intricate lives of the birds she admired. Amy Tan will be in conversation with author and birding expert Keith Hansen at Dominican University of California’s Angelico Hall on April 23 at 7 p.m. In-person and online tickets at bookpassage.com.

Somehow:

Thoughts on Love

Anne Lamott explores the transformative power that love has in our lives. Her previous work includes the novels Hard Laughter and Rosie, and the nonction books

Operating Instructions and Bird by Bird

Anne Lamott will be in conversation with Barbara Lane at Sydney Goldstein Theater in SF on April 13 at 7:30 p.m. Her annual online workshop “Ticket to Write” will be on May 11 at 1 p.m. Tickets and workshop registration at bookpassage.com.

A Year of Last Things:

Poems

Michael Ondaatje, author of several books, including the Booker Prizewinning novel

The English Patient, returns to poetry with pieces that are sometimes witty, sometimes moving and always wise.

Michael Ondaatje will speak at Dominican University of California’s Angelico Hall on April 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets at bookpassage.com.

Coming back stronger never stops.

At Novato Community Hospital, orthopedic excellence isn’t just our mission—it’s our achievement. Recognized as one of the top 50 U.S. hospitals for orthopedics, we never stop striving for better. When you choose Novato, you get outstanding care from the moment you enter our doors through recovery and beyond. We never stop working to get you back in action.

Learn more at sutterhealth.org/novato-orthopedics.

Big News for Little Boats on the Bay

BY MIMI PINSON

Over 200 of the country’s best youth sailors will compete at Belvedere’s San Francisco Yacht Club this April 18–21. The largest junior regatta for its boat class, this event will race single-handed dinghies known as Optimist sailboats (or Optis), in the Yacht Club’s rst Team Trials since 2016. These youth competitors

have trained years to qualify for Team Trials, and top nishers will represent the United States at international regattas through the summer and beyond. Want to catch a glimpse of future Team USA? Boat out to Berkeley Circle*, or set a picnic at the Berkeley Marina if ye be a landlubber. sfyc.org

JOINT

Would You Put Bugs Bunny in a Cage?

BY MIMI PINSON

Bunnies. They’re not toys for eager second graders. The Mill Valley rabbit rescue SaveABunny wants you to know that bunnies aren’t your average pet. Rabbits get pegged as easy “starter pets” for kids, but adopting one means an eight- to eleven-year commitment, plus a specialized diet, a bunny-proofed house and veterinary care. And as prey animals, many prefer not to be picked up, since overenthusiastic handling may injure the fragile animals. But it’s not all cautions! Rabbits have big personalities (eh… What’s up, Doc?), and they make great companions for ready families. These hopping cuties can be as smart as cats or dogs, and they can even be litter box-trained. If you’re looking to jump into the world of rabbits, then connect with SaveABunny for guidance on rabbit care, fostering and adoption. You might find the perfect fluffy addition to your family. saveabunny.org

BONDING THROUGH GAMES

Skip streaming and opt for an engaging night of fun for all. BY

KASIA PAWLOWSKA

1 2 5 3 4

1 The Adventures of Tintin, Volume One Hardcover, $25

Sausalito Ferry Co., Sausalito

Share a timeless classic with the whole family. Sausalito Ferry Co. is the only authorized retailer of Tintin in the United States and has the largest selection — online and in store — domestically. sausalitoferry.com

2 Make A Plate pre-paid kit, $40

Toy Crazy, Larkspur

Unleash your family’s artistic talents with this kit that has everything you need to create up to seven plates. Dishwashersafe, break-resistant and BPA-free, this will be your child’s (or inner child’s) favorite plate. gotoycrazy.com

3 Word Hangman, $18 A Child’s Delight, Corte Madera

Can you guess your opponent’s word before they figure yours out? This spin on the classic game has upgraded features like a hangman revealer that keeps track of where each player is. achildsdelight.com

4 Grateful Dead shape-shifting box, $26

Hay’s Toys & Arcade, San Rafael

This store opened with the belief that everyone can benefit from fidget and stress toys, and the shashibo box is a perfect example. Able to transform into over 70 shapes, you’ll have hours of mind-challenging fun — Dead style. hazestoys.com

5 Cat Lady board game, $25

The Game Fortress, Novato

Did you know that Ernest Hemingway was a “cat lady”? Yep! He let dozens of feral cats roam his Key West grounds. In this game, you and your fellow cat ladies will draft cards, collect toys, food, catnip, costumes and of course, cats. thegamefortress.store

*Check with stores for availability and pricing

Thena Holmen, RN has specialized in Aesthetic Nursing for over three decades and has performed over 1000 Fotona4D® laser treatments. As the leading Fotona4D® provider in Marin, she has been privately trained by Fotona’s top European Physician. She continues to build on her advanced skills and knowledge in an industry that is rapidly changing. With her expertise she has published nationally and internationally including Tatler of London.

Skin Suite Marin offers the most advanced technology with the Fotona4D® non-invasive laser combined with the Hydrafacial and PRX Peel. With an emphasis on natural-looking beauty and collagen remodeling, Thena can help you achieve the best version of you with little discomfort and no down time.

Skin Suite Marin — the premier natural beauty and wellness destination in Southern Marin.

Dr. Beth McDougall — Medical Director | Thena Holmen, RN — Aesthetic Nurse

Fotona4D® Laser

BY CARRIE KIRBY

California’s home coverage crisis explained.

POLICYPER L

When first-time buyers James Kelley and his fiancée put in an offer on a cool house in a great San Rafael neighborhood, they faced the expected worries, like negotiating the price and securing a mortgage.

What they didn’t anticipate was that the most challenging part of the transaction would be securing homeowners insurance, a hurdle that stretched their closing period to two months and required thousands of dollars of work on the property.

But in the past two years, Marin home buyers and longtime owners alike have learned — often painfully — about what Amy Bach, executive director of the nonprofit United Policyholders, calls an “unprecedented crisis” in homeowners insurance. Trouble started brewing years ago, as record wildfire losses and other factors combined to drive insurers to think hard about covering California houses. Things came to a head in 2022 and 2023, when Allstate, and then State Farm, stopped writing new policies in the state altogether.

“For anybody in Marin or in the Bay Area, frankly, to find home insurance now is really a struggle,” says broker Scott Johnson, founder of Mill Valley’s Marindependent Insurance Services. “It's a nightmare.”

NEW POLICIES ARE HARDER TO GET AND MORE EXPENSIVE

For some would-be buyers, it’s the location that makes a house hard to insure. Wooded lots on steep slopes — basically what people think of when they think of Marin living — have never been insurer favorites. And with the drumbeat of catastrophic fires in California in recent years, it’s no surprise that insurers have become more leery than ever of such properties.

I

“I was (recently) representing buyers in San Rafael of a hillside home with a lot of trees around it. There was quite a scramble to find a way to get them insured,” says Greenbrae real estate agent Thomas Henthorne.

But location isn’t the only issue insurers are balking at. For Kelley’s new house, the problem was outdated knoband-tube wiring.

Because the companies remaining in California’s market have become much more particular, properties that once would have been covered without a second look are suddenly nearly uninsurable.

Fortunately, the home’s seller agreed to rewire the house, making it possible for the couple to get coverage. Even then,

it wasn’t the type of policy they might have acquired a few years ago. It was with a company they’d never heard of, and at a rate — more than $5,000 a year — well over what the seller had been paying.

“It was a big learning experience for us,” Kelley says. For other buyers, “I would recommend you work with a real estate agent who knows the insurance market. And having an insurance broker definitely helped.” Kelley worked with Johnson to get the policy they eventually bought.

Acquiring insurance coverage has moved way up on home buyers’ to-do lists, agent Henthorne says. In fact, he now has buyers get an insurance quote before writing an offer.

“Because there could be an instance

where the offer gets accepted, and then they look into insurance and find out that either they can't get it or it's too expensive,” Henthorne says.

NON-RENEWALS

Other Marin residents learn about the insurance crisis from an unwelcome letter in the mail, informing them that their current insurer will no longer cover their home. While area brokers used to spend much of their time helping customers shop around for better rates, now they’re inundated with calls about non-renewals.

“I have seen non-renewals in Marin County from Travelers, AAA, Safeco, AmGUARD, Nationwide — the list is long,” says Stephanie Cannell, owner of

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING

Experts say that the expensive wildres of recent years aren’t the only reason it’s gotten so hard to get and keep homeowners insurance in Marin.

According to United Policyholders, other factors include:

• Expectations for increasingly intense storms due to climate change.

• Technology advances, from aerial drone photos of properties to risk-estimating algorithms.

• Ination in building costs.

• High reinsurance rates (the insurance policies that insurers buy to cover catastrophic levels of risk).

Some of these problems could improve in the next year or so, potentially easing the situation for California homeowners. For instance, Bach says, “We are making tremendous progress in wildre risk reduction, and Marin is leading the charge.”

There's also hope that the state government could improve the situation by striking deals with mainstream insurers to get them back to writing more policies in California. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is working on that.

WILL THINGS EVER GET BACK TO NORMAL?

“Climate change is here to stay and along with it, increased catastrophic risk. I don't think we're ever going back to home insurance premiums in California that are close to $1,000 a year,” Bach says. That said, she’s hopeful we could return to a place where homeowners aren’t scrambling for coverage. “I have every condence that this is going to get xed,” she says.

Mill Valley’s Cannell Insurance Group.

Nonrenewal might happen simply because your insurance company is cutting its exposure to California’s risks, or it could be because your house no longer meets a company’s new, more stringent standards.

Once you get dropped by your insurance company, you’ll probably be able to get a new policy, but not at the same price you were paying. Most people in this situation — and many new home buyers in Marin — are no longer able to get covered by the big-name companies, whose rates are regulated by the state of California. Instead, they turn to “nonadmitted” or “surplus lines” carriers, whose rates are not regulated.

“It's a super big shock when you go from a $1,500 policy to a $10,000 policy,” Cannell warns. Price aside, Cannell says, consumers shouldn’t worry about signing on with non-admitted insurers, which can be great companies. She advises buyers to research any insurance carrier through credit rating agency AM Best, and stick to those with an A- or better rating.

In some cases, homeowners who get dropped might not be able to get a policy even from a non-admitted carrier. Then they must turn to the insurer of last resort: The California FAIR plan. Because FAIR only provides basic fire coverage, customers must combine it with a supplemental plan to cover theft, liability, etc.

But getting signed up for FAIR coverage also isn’t easy right now, due to high demand and other challenges.

“We need to go through the CFPnet. com website, and it's broken,” Johnson says, noting that it takes up to six weeks to get a quote. In that time, home buyers can lose their locked-in mortgage rate or

have to extend closing.

Advice for avoiding a nonrenewal runs the gamut of being a really good customer, from bundling your car insurance with your home policy, to hardening your property against fire, to avoiding filing small claims. But there's no guarantee that any of this will work to prevent the dreaded non-renew letter.

And that can make it hard to motivate homeowners to reduce risk, acknowledges United Policyholders’ Bach.

“One of the biggest impediments to getting people to do all that painful work of removing beloved trees and destroying expensive landscaping, is: Why bother if I'm going to get dropped anyway?” she says. Of course, creating defensible space around your property isn’t just good for insurance; it could also help your home — and the people in it — survive a wildfire.

One thing agents are sure of: Now is not the time to shop around for a better policy, even if (and when) you get hit with a rate increase.

“If you have an admitted insurer, just keep it,” Johnson advises.

The risk of shopping around, explained Johnson in a recent blog post, is that starting a new insurance policy typically involves an inspection — which could turn up an issue that leads to the new company not to insure you after all.

“Insurance inspections have become more difficult to pass. Therefore you could purchase a new insurance policy, fail the inspection, and then have no property insurance,” Johnson wrote.

Even Bach, who for years advocated pushing for the best rate, “reluctantly” agrees that now isn’t the time.

“We had to start saying, stay off their radar if you can,” Bach says.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE

APPEAL. Ask your local re department for a risk assessment that might help you show that you’ve done your part to protect your property from wildres.

START SHOPPING FOR A NEW POLICY RIGHT AWAY. Insurers must give you a 75-day notice that your policy won’t be renewed. It might take you every day of that period to nd a replacement policy.

CALL A BROKER. Insurance professionals are well aware of the crisis situation and can help you navigate the new world of nonadmitted insurers and other options.

For more advice on how to respond to the dreaded non-renew letter, check out United Policyholders' tip sheet at: uphelp.org/ dropped-by-your-home-insurerdont-panic-try-our-tips/

St RIVING FOR z ERO

BY kIRSTeN JONES NeFF

A collaboRative effort to end homelessness in maRin PaRt

Last year, when the U.S. Department of Urban Housing released the findings of a January 2023 national point-in-time homeless count, California was in the lead, and not the lead any state should be proud of. At that time, 181,399 people in California were experiencing homelessness and 123,423 people, 68% of the total number, were unsheltered (living on the street or in a car). California accounts for 49% of all people living on the streets in the U.S., and most experts in the field agree that lack of affordable housing and the phaseout of pandemic programs to support the vulnerable, have worsened the crisis. Data show that the number of people experiencing homelessness increased by 8.5% in Marin County between 2019 and 2022. In Sausalito, San Rafael and Novato, homeless encampments grew and became permanent during the pandemic, generating a sense of hopelessness about the crisis.

Yet, amongst those who spend their days working to address homelessness here in Marin, there is a surprising sense of optimism about the potential for the county to end homelessness in the not so distant future.

Last fall the Marin Community Foundation, the most powerful philanthropic force in the county, announced a strategic initiative to address the homelessness and affordable housing crisis in Marin. “Housing and homelessness is the most critical issue the county faces,” says Vikki Garrod, the Chief of Staff for Marin Community

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Foundation. “We recently convened all the major players in the sector — elected officials, nonprofit leaders, regional experts, affordable housing developers, etc. — they have the expertise, and they unanimously agreed: together we can do it.”

For inspiration, MCF and partner agencies are looking to cities like Houston, which has bucked national trends and greatly reduced their homeless population with a Housing First approach, or San Diego, a city that increased access to low-income housing with an innovative Affordable Housing Fund. “The thing I’d love people in Marin to recognize is that we really can do it here. Homelessness is upsetting and can feel intractable, but it is absolutely solvable,” says Rhea Suh, the President and CEO of Marin Community Foundation. What gives Suh this conviction? It is Marin County’s resources, combined with the level of sophistication and experience amongst the coalition of groups working on homelessness and affordable housing, she says. One critical puzzle piece, says Suh, is community support and patience. “It is a tricky thing to beg for the patience of folks who are not feeling safe,” says Suh. “But we can get to functional zero homelessness, and that should make people in Marin feel hope.”

Below we hear from several of the “key players” working with MCF to better understand the work their organizations are doing to end homelessness in Marin.

LauRa m cmahon, Legal Aid of Marin: Legal Services Can Prevent Homelessness

“Our donors and funders understand that legal services can change lives,” says Laura McMahon (they/them), executive director of Legal Aid of Marin (LAOM). According to McMahon, LAOM’s goal is to increase housing stability, and half of LAOM cases are eviction defense and homelessness prevention cases. Last year, LAOM, the only organization in Marin providing tenants with eviction defense for free, represented over 500 low-income tenants, and served over 2,000 people countywide.

“Right now there is a movement in Marin to recognize our responsibility and the work to be done. I find it p owerful, as we see the strategic plan that Marin Community Foundation is rolling out — it is galvanizing people, galvanizing experts who work in this field every day.” As Covid-era protections evaporated, an increasing number of people have been ev icted for non-payment of rent, says McMahon. “Owning property is an ideal, but most people don’t,” they say. “To own property you have to accumulate wealth. And in order to accumulate wealth you have to have privilege. Those things aren’t bad. It’s just that when you have privilege you also have a responsibility to use that to help others.”

McMahon compares LAOM to an essential service, similar to a firefighter or an EMT, a service provider that steps in at a critical time in people’s lives. “In Marin, with the natural beauty and people with resources, poverty can be almost invisible,” they say. “It has been powerful for me to see the face of homelessness — it is not what people think.” McMahons says that counter to the stereotypical notion of a homeless person who is on drugs and doesn’t want to come off the streets, what they see is a significant portion of the individuals facing homelessness are working people who would like to hold onto their home.

The second directive of LAOM is policy advocacy — advocating for equitable housing law changes in Marin. McMahon and their colleagues see rents increasing, people unable to pay, widespread mistreatment of tenants and landlords violating the laws, whether by price gouging — increasing rent more than the state cap of 10% — or telling people they have to move without going through the lawful eviction process. “The laws need to change around tenant protection and rent stabilization — the ‘just cause’ eviction protections,” says McMahon. “So real changes need to happen in the law and, most importantly, those laws need to be enforced.”

ChRiStine PAquette, St. Vincent de Paul Society: Protecting Vulnerable Seniors

According to Christine Paquette, executive director of St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin, the older population in Marin has been acutely affected by the affordable housing crisis. “Seniors generally can’t increase their income, and when they lose their housing, older adults are often relegated to their cars.” In the 1970s and ’80s a popular approach was to move people to other counties where there is more affordable housing. But Paquette strongly disagrees with this approach, especially for seniors. “People have their lives in Marin — their doctors, their social groups, their church,” she says. “In fact, loneliness is more harmful to health than smoking, so moving is not a solution for seniors.”

St. Vincent de Paul Society has been in Marin since 1946, offering assistance programs from meals to case management to emergency funds to support over 10,000

maRk Shotwell, Ritter Center: A Clinical Program With a Housing Component

Ritter Center CEO Mark Shotwell has worked on the front line of homelessness in the Bay Area for decades and has formed a very clear vision about what works and what does not work over the years. “In SF they blame the victim, but what caused the housing rental spike? Partnerships with Big Tech and no thought about how to keep middle- and -low income people in the city. The housing crisis we are facing now started long ago,” says Shotwell. “So many families are in a fragile situation, and the reality is that the cost of housing in Marin and the entire Bay Area, for service providers or anyone working in the non-profit sector, is out of reach.”

In 2011, the Ritter Center pioneered the Housing First approach in Marin County to address homelessness. “That means we do whatever it takes to get people into housing and then do whatever it takes to make sure those people are successful in their housing,” says Shotwell. Take, for example, a person who has been homeless for 20–30 years. They have not had practice with living in a

IN A MILL VALLEY HOME, THE FIREPLACE CLAD IN SHOU SUGI BAN (CHARRED WOOD) SIDING EVOKES THE FEELING OF THE SURROUNDING REDWOOD TREES.

THIBAULT CARTIER

In a Mill Valley home, the fireplace clad in shou sugi ban (charred wood) siding evokes the feeling of the surrounding redwood trees.

SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL

A family from Los Angeles is living large in their new 1,600-square-foot home set among Mill Valley’s towering redwoods.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THIBAULT CARTIER

The redwoods and property setbacks dictated the footprint of the home, which features a raised mat slab foundation that allows the trees’ roots to grow underneath.

For many homebuyers, bigger is better. For a family from Venice Beach, California, however, their new 1,600-square-foot home tucked among the redwoods in Mill Valley is just right. In fact, it feels downright spacious, thanks to its thoughtful design by Heidi Richardson, founding principal of Mill Valley-based Richardson Pribuss Architects.

The home’s many windows are positioned to take in the views of the redwoods, and spacious outdoor decks extend the living area.

“They lived in an even smaller house in LA, and they actually want to live small,” Richardson says.

It’s a good thing, because even if the clients had wanted a bigger house, it wouldn’t have been possible on the site. For starters, the site is only 4,600 squarefeet, and there are a large number of redwood trees on the property, which the owners wanted to preserve. And, although there was an old cabin already on the property, it had undergone several unpermitted additions and was in disrepair, making it unsuited for a remodel or expansion. Even building a new home on the existing cabin’s footprint wasn’t an option. “Part of the problem was that the roots of the redwoods were undermining the old house, and it was also within the side yard setback,” Richardson explains. “Furthermore, more than half of the garage wasn’t even on the property.”

Unable to salvage the original cabin and garage, Richardson and her team, which included Hayes & Associates Construction and Turbin Structural Engineering, set about building a new home for the family. Since preserving the redwoods was a top priority, Richardson also worked closely with an arborist, who recommended employing a raised mat slab foundation to allow the redwood trees’ roots to grow underneath undisturbed.

Ultimately, the redwoods and setbacks dictated the footprint of the home, as well as the need to allot space for a driveway that could accommodate two cars offstreet, a Mill Valley requirement, since a new garage would not fit on the property.

“We plotted the redwood trees and drew a radius around them to determine how close we could get, and then we put the setbacks in,” Richardson says. “What was leftover was what we could build on.”

The resulting three-bedroom,

An expansive deck with a hot tub is easily accessible from the kitchen and dining area.

A circular “porthole” skylight in the living room provides a glimpse of the trees overhead.

“We didn’t have to cut down a single redwood tree.”

Above: Each bedroom has a private deck.

Right: Although the site the home is built on is only 4,600 square feet, it “borrows landscape” from the neighboring Redwood Lodge property, making it feel larger.

three-bath modern home is broken down into two, two-story volumes and a central living room with an elevated ceiling, staircase and circular “porthole” skylight that provides a glimpse of the trees overhead, as well as the sun and moon during different times of day. The home’s many windows are positioned to take in the views of the redwoods, and spacious outdoor decks extend the living area. Roof overhangs shield the decks from falling branches and debris. “They’re surrounded by quite a nice environment,” Richardson says. “We ‘borrowed landscape’ from the neighboring Redwood Lodge property so we could really expand the sense of

these small spaces by growing them to the outside.”

To address the clients’ desire for fire safety, the home features non-wood exterior materials, including cement board siding, bronze metal inverted Corten standing seams and Hardie board siding, all in shades that complement the surrounding redwoods. Likewise, the decks are made with a composite material rather than wood.

Inside, the lower level contains the open-plan kitchen and dining and living room areas, which connect to an expansive outdoor deck with a hot tub. A bedroom that the owners use as an

Middle: The homeowners requested a nonwood exterior to promote fire safet.

Left: The kitchen is outfitted with custom rift-cut white oak cabinets, a generous pantry and a Caesarstone countertop and back-splash.

office and a bathroom are also located on this level. The kitchen features custom rift-cut white oak millwork, a generous pantry and a Caesarstone countertop and backsplash. “The owners were very involved in the kitchen design,” Richardson says. “They didn’t want to use too many different materials, so the countertop and backsplash are intentionally the same material to keep it looking clean — important in a small space.”

Richardson managed to fit a small workstation between the dining room and living room, increasing the versatility of the space. A window seat adjacent to the fireplace, clad in shou sugi ban (charred wood) siding, provides a cozy spot to read a book. “The wood fireplace surround brings the feeling of the redwood bark inside,” Richardson says.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom is positioned over the kitchen and dining area, while the clients’ son’s room is over the front office. Each bedroom has its own deck, and the roofs over each room angle in different directions to capture light and the views of the redwoods. In keeping with the restrained materials palette, the primary bath features tile that evokes the look of wood, as well as the same counter and backsplash material used in the kitchen. A central hallway overlooking the living room connects the bedrooms. “The primary bedroom is small — only about 11 by 13 feet — but I was surprised by how large it feels with the corner deck and window,” Richardson says. “That was a real home run.”

Overall, the simple materials palette, expansive decks and high-volume living room all contribute to making the house feel much larger than it really is. Best yet, the beautiful setting has been preserved. Says Richardson, “We didn’t have to cut down a single redwood tree.”

Above: Built-in storage adds interest in the upstairs hallway.

Right and below: The bathroom tile evokes the look of wood.

A workspace tucked between the kitchen and living room adds functionality in the small house.

BRIGHT SPOT

A colorful home provides a warm welcome for a family returning to their roots in sunny San Rafael.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL DYER

The ombré tealpainted pool house provides a cheerful, sunny environment for family fun.

Sometimes, life has a way of taking us full circle. For Marinnative Marika Páez Wiesen and New York transplant Eric Wiesen, that journey started when they became friends at Davidson Middle School in San Rafael in the 1980s. Years later, their lives took them independently to New York, where they eventually started dating, got married and had two children (Elliot, now 12, and Lyra, now 10); back to San Francisco in 2013; and then finally home to San Rafael in 2016.

“Our whole family lived on the West Coast, and it seemed crazy to raise our kids so far from family,” Marika says. “The grandparents still lived in San Rafael, and when we realized we were spending every weekend and most of our summers in Marin, we knew it was time to look for a home here.”

The couple ended up purchasing a 2,685 square-foot, threebedroom, four-bath East Coast-style brown shingle home in San Rafael’s Dominican neighborhood located less than 10 minutes away from their families. With its large kitchen, functional splitlevel layout, double-wide lot, flat yard, pool and on-property guest house, the house had plenty of room for family and entertaining, yet it lacked character. On top of that, the couple’s existing furniture from their New York and San Francisco apartments didn’t work with their new home or lifestyle. After living in the house for a few years, they were ready to embark on a renovation — and high on the priority list was infusing color and personality into the space.

A walnut Altura Duette Buttery Table with brass inlay is set against a backdrop of graphic-print Kelly Wearstler wallpaper in the dining room.

The living room is outtted with a Coup Studio sofa and armchair, hand-tufted carpet, tiled replace surround and a coffe table that once belonged to the husband’s grandmother.

“My aesthetic is fun, colorful and pragmatic,” Marika says. “I want things to be pretty, but I don’t want to be telling my kids to ‘be careful with the couch!’ all day long.”

Marika and Eric found an ideal interior design partner in Annie Lowengart, principal at Ann Lowengart Interiors, which has offices in San Anselmo and Palm Beach, Florida. “So many designer portfolios we saw looked like the same — an endless parade of neutrals,” Eric says. “Annie’s work stood out as being much more vivacious.”

With an eye for detail, Lowengart ensured each room in the house would feel colorful and lively while serving the family’s practical needs. “We ended up remodeling a pretty good portion of the house and touching every surface,” she says.

Lowengart outfitted the mid-century modern-inspired living room and entryway with a curvaceous sofa and armchair from Coup Studio, hand-tufted carpet, tiled fireplace surround and window seat framed with patterned Roman shades — all in bold shades of blue, orange, lemon and magenta. “The element that kicked off this whole project, however, is the coffee table, which belonged to Eric’s grandmother,” she says.

Top: Embellished with a bright red sconce and pillows and pattern wallpaper, the reading nook is a cozy spot to curl up with a book.

Left: Orange pillows add a pop of color on a window seat in the primary bedroom, which also features fabric wallpaper and antique nightstands.

Eric is an avid home chef, so the kitchen was an important part of the project. Fortunately, it required little more than a style refresh. Lowengart elevated the space by painting the cabinets black, changing the hardware, installing a counter-to-ceiling backsplash, adding modern counter stools from Hive Modern, and upgrading the lighting with glass-and-brass Allied Maker pendants and Holly Hunt sconces. In the dining room, a striking walnut Altura Duette Butterfly Table with brass inlay is set against a backdrop of Kelly Wearstler wallpaper that the owners had previously installed.

To bring a similar energy to the rest of the house, Lowengart utilized wallpaper in a variety of colorful patterns in many other rooms as well: fabric wallpaper in the primary bedroom, abstract pastel wallpaper on the ceiling in the daughter’s room, a whimsical flora and fauna print in the kids’ bathroom, nautical Philip Jefferies wallpaper in the powder room, a tropical print in the laundry room, and a blue-and-white design in a reading nook where the couple’s son loves to curl up with a book.

Lowengart also transformed the sunny pool house, which Marika and Eric originally considered demolishing, with a painted teal ombré exterior and colorful interior details. Now, it’s the couple’s favorite room in the house. Says Marika, “From the ombré outside to the colorful rug and pillows inside, it’s an inviting spot we all love to spend time in.”

Left: Tropical print wallpaper and vibrant green cabinetry liven up the laundry room.

Right: The counter-toceiling tile backsplash, Hive Modern counter stools, Allied Maker pendants and Holly Hunt sconces bring new life to the kitchen.

ADELINE SOFA from GUILD by LMI

This piece can sit against a wall or flot in the middle of a room. Eschewing disposable culture, interior and furniture designer Lane McNab created this sofa with comfort and sustainability in mind. Artisan-made with sustainably sourced materials, almost all production is by local crafts people in the San Francisco Bay Area. To the trade at Sloan Miyasato, sloanm.com

CLAMSHELL CHANDELIER by Jamie Young Co

This unique pendant will shine brightly in casual interiors and elevate the mood. Each of its hundreds of small beads is hand-carved from mango wood (a quickly maturing hardwood) and meticulously laid out in mesmerizing patterns inspired by the rays of the sun. Retails for $1,829 at jamieyoung.com.

IOI TABLE by GamFratesi

Stine Gam and Enrico Fratesi reimagine their geometric Art Deco piece with the warm tactility of a rounded edge top made from travertine in rippled beige, sourced in Italy. The structure of the table legs — twin metal tubes connected a sphere of brass — render the letters I-O-I three-dimensionally. Available as a side table (shown) or a coffee table starting at $1,299 at gubi.com or dwr.com.

EARTHLY DELIGHTS

INDULGE WITHOUT THE WORRY —

THESE LUXURIOUS FURNISHINGS ARE EASY ON THE EYES, AND EASY ON THE PLANET.

BY LISA BOQUIREN

BLACK MAMBA COFFEE TABLE by OSO Creations

Like its serpentine namesake, this striking piece is not as it appears on the surface: cast in blackened concrete, the table top is cast into a wooden mold, giving the concrete a heavily wood-grained texture. The truncated conical base is also cast in a blackened concrete taken to a high polish. Handcrafted in Brooklyn by sculptor Eric Weil and his team. To the trade at hewnsf.com.

UNI SIDE TABLE by Jamie Young Co.

Designed by the California-based couple, Jamie Young Jeter and David Jeter — whose inspiration comes from their love of "art, architecture and adventure” — this eye-catching piece is artisan-crafted of fibeglass and hand-finishedin India. Retails for $552 at jamieyoung.com.

Interior Design

Mia Todd Studio

Photography

Giulio Ghirardi Studio

SPACES GALLERY

TIDE by Mia Cullin for FilzFelt

Inspired by the water surrounding her home in Stockholm, Mia Cullin brings the ocean waves inside. Tide playfully divides space, while softening sound. Made from wool felt — a durable, inherently flame-etardant fabric with thermal and acoustic properties, composed of renewable and 100% biodegradable natural animal fiberswhose origins date back thousands of years — these panels can be hung in continuous rows or stacked. Inquire at filzelt.com.

ROCKY TABLOA SIDE TABLE

by Tronk Design

Whether solo or grouped, this piece takes center stage as an imaginatively named, visually appealing study of contrasts. The natural stone base is strong and earthy, while the matte black powder-coated steel top looks delicate and airy. Made by local Ohio craftsmen and fabricators. Starts at $399 at Tronk Design, tronkdesign.com

RAVINE BENCH by Aderyn Studio

Novato-based designers and life partners Phil Vaughn and Chelsea Brown aim to create furniture which can be kept for a lifetime — and handed down — using locally sourced materials and natural finishesin a soon-to-be-solar-powered shop.

Handmade from an elm wood base in Shou Sugi Ban finish,and featuring a hand-carved texture and brass metal banding detail in bronze finish,this bench is a keeper. To the trade at hewnsf.com.

WILLY FAUX TRAVERTINE COFFEE TABLE

by Leanne Ford

Elegantly earthy, this coffee table combines the beauty of flwlessly replicated travertine markings with brawn of FSC®-certifie engineered wood substrate from responsibly managed forests and non-porous, lightweight resin. Retails for $1,299 at Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com

THE SUSTAINABLE HOUSE 2.0

REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT AT HOME WITH THESE FIVE TIPS.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS

Marin’s residents have long embraced sustainability in their homes through various means, like utilizing low-VOC paints and energy-e ffi cient LED light bulbs. As our understanding of climate change continues to advance alongside technology and manufacturing practices, there are now even more ways than ever to reduce our carbon footprint at home. Here, top local architecture, design and landscaping professionals share fi ve trending sustainability features you can incorporate in your own home.

1CREATE A CLIMATE-FRIENDLY KITCHEN

Many of Marin’s residents who are interested in curbing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the risk of hazardous gas emissions in their homes are making the move from gas ranges to induction cooktops. “Interest is growing in induction cooking,” says Marin kitchen designer Sandra Bird. “We even just took out a gas cooktop in a kitchen we originally designed and replaced it with induction at the client’s request.” Marin residents have yet another motivation to make the switch: Marin County offers rebates through Electrify Marin to residents who want to replace appliances that run on natural gas with high-efficiency electric equivalents, and Marin residents can still take advantage of the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) rebate program as well.

In addition, buying in bulk at the grocery store and storing food in glass pantry jars like those from Blisshaus keeps plastic out of landfills. “Skipping plastic packaging is one of the few pro-planet choices we can make every single day,” says Wiebke Liu, founder of Blisshaus, based in Marin. “Shifting our shopping habits as we reach for our everyday groceries can be fun and empowering for the whole family.”

2 CHOOSE ECO-FRIENDLY FLOORING

“Customers in Marin have always been interested in sustainable flooring options, more so than clients in other parts of the U.S., according to our nationwide co-op, Carpet One,” says Leigh Bakhtiari, co-owner at City Carpets in San Rafael. Among the trending choices available today: untreated wool carpeting and other natural-fiber rugs, reclaimed hardwoods, true linoleum made from linseed oil, cork and new waterproof PureTech flooring that is made from 70% recycled material and free of PVC.

3 UTILIZE SMART HOME TECH

Widely available smart home technology can control heating, cooling and lighting systems by a schedule, and can even be remotely activated from a smartphone or other web-enabled device, lowering energy usage and saving money on utility bills. Programmable thermostats like Google’s Nest Learning Thermostat, for example, can adjust the temperature of a home according to a household’s patterns and preferences, like switching the heater off when you’re on vacation. Likewise, smart lighting systems use motion sensors and timers to

ensure that lights are only on when they’re needed. “The ability to program your electrical world through software helps you avoid wasting energy unnecessarily,” says Kimberly Rider, an interior designer based in San Anselmo and author of two books on sustainable living, The Healthy Home Workbook and Organic Baby.

4 INSTALL A BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM

According to a new energy storage dashboard published by the California Energy Commission, California is experiencing a surge in the buildout of battery energy storage systems right now, including residential, commercial and utility-scale battery storage projects. For residential, batteries have two primary benefits: security and sustainability, explains David Marlatt, principal at DNM Architecture. “When there is a power outage, the lights stay on, food doesn’t spoil and the AC works,” he says. “Batteries also deliver a less obvious but important benefit of ‘load leveling’ and reducing stress on the power grid.”

By storing energy in a battery, homeowners can disconnect from the power grid and use their battery storage during peak

hours of the day and then recharge the battery overnight when the grid is less stressed, ultimately making the power grid more efficient when practiced on a macro scale. “It also saves the homeowner money because electricity used during peak hours costs more than the electricity used overnight,” Marlatt says. Another option is to attach the battery to solar panels so it can be charged during the day.

5 PLANT A HABITAT GARDEN

Low-water landscaping has long been a priority for residents of drought-prone Marin County, but Vanessa LemaireWorkman, owner of Foliava Garden Design in Mill Valley, is finding many clients want to go a step further by planting wildlife-friendly “habitat gardens.” “People are resisting the temptation of pretty ornamental exotic plants and are instead going for natives and analog plants that are adapted to our soils and microclimates and have nutritional value for our pollinators, butterflies and birds,” she says. Coast live oak, valley oak, coffeeberry, manzanitas and California lilac are among the California natives Lemaire-Workman incorporates into her projects for a four-season habitat garden.

North Coast Tile & Stone

The leader in the North Bay for tile and granite installation for residential, new home construction and commercial work. Family owned and operated for over 30 years, North Coast Tile & Stone specialize in customer service, dedicated to making sure that clients are taken care of on every level with the highest quality of craftsmen in the county, the best designers on staff and the most beautiful selection of stone and tile in the area. Over 250 bundles of stone to choose from as well as a hand curated tile collection.

They also work seamlessly with your designer and/or contractor if you already have one. Expertise, knowledge and trust as well as a ‘one stop shop’ makes them the perfect choice for your kitchen, bathroom or outdoor kitchen project. Designed by: Lamperti Contracting and Design

Architectural Design Carpets

DESIGN & INSTALLATION EXPERTS

“The Foundation Of Your Home Starts With Us.” Marin County’s hidden gem flooring showroom, Architectural Design Carpets, has over 30 years of experience, with an array of luxury one-of-a-kind statement rugs to family-friendly floors. They collaborate with the Bay Area’s top interior designers, realtors, and homeowners to achieve their flooring vision with an inspirational collection of broadloom carpets, rugs, and hardwood floors.

1111 Francisco Blvd East, Suite 3, San Rafael, CA 415.458.1717 • architecturaldesigncarpets.com

Gardens & Gables

ARCHITECTURE • CONSTRUCTION • MAINTENANCE

With 30 years of designing, building and maintaining custom gardens in Marin, Gardens & Gables is expertly poised to handle all of your landscape needs from a spring garden refresh to a complete renovation.

Gardens & Gables is founded on enthusiasm for creation and respect for the natural environment. They delight in creating beautiful, functional landscapes with a seamless flow between indoors and out where you and your family will enjoy the best of living in Marin County.

Whether a tranquil sanctuary, a gourmet outdoor kitchen and entertainment space or anything in between, G&G can bring your vision to life. Their design build team will be with you from concept to the final details of installation and ongoing maintenance to ensure a smooth and easy process and a beautiful landscape for years to come.

Give Gardens & Gables a call to start planning your new landscape today!

415.499.0331 • gardensandgables.com

Architect #C27229, Landscape Contractor #779218

Family run for 45 years, Johnson and Daly is passionate about providing their neighbors with the highest-quality moving experience. Whether you or your business need to move across town or around the world, when you choose Johnson and Daly you can rest easy knowing that your belongings are in the hands of some of the best trained and most awarded movers in the state.

Thank you for voting us Best of Marin County for a THIRD YEAR IN A ROW!

Pictured: Buster Johnson

PROTECT WHAT YOU CHERISH!

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415.491.4444

johnsondalymoving.com

Marissa Satomi Design

ELEVATE THE ORDINARY

Experience the epitome of luxury living with Marissa Satomi Design. From the picturesque landscapes of Marin to the bustling streets of New York, their expertise in high-end residential design transcends boundaries. With an unwavering dedication to aesthetics, comfort, and functionality, they craft spaces that inspire and delight. Let them transform your home into a masterpiece of sophistication and style.

San Anselmo, CA 510.388.1024 • marissasatomidesign.com

HAUS+

MARIN’S FULL-SERVICE ADU SOLUTION

HAUS+ is a Marin-based provider of exceptional quality ADUs. Choose from a selection of thoughtfully designed floor plans, select your materials and finishes, and HAUS+ will take care of the rest. HAUS+ stands apart from other ADU companies with its responsive customer care, uncompromising design integrity, and emphasis on healthy and sustainable living.

As a full-service company, HAUS+ handles everything from design and engineering through permitting and construction, with attentive project management throughout. Whether you’re looking for a guest house, home office, rental unit, or all of the above, HAUS+ has a team of dedicated professionals who are ready to make your ADU experience seamless from start to finish, leaving you with a quality space that’s built to last a lifetime and enhance your property’s value.

Visit www.hausplus.com to book a free, zero-commitment consultation and learn about how HAUS+ can help you unlock your property’s potential.

info@hausplus.com • Corte Madera, CA 415.272.6132 • hausplus.com

Julie Rootes Interiors

FULL SCALE RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN

Julie Rootes Interiors (JRI) is a distinguished full-service residential design company celebrated for its timeless and elegant homes across the San Francisco Bay Area, Hawaii, and beyond. With a keen artistic vision, adept project management, and deep understanding of client preferences, JRI is renowned for crafting meticulously curated residences and vacation homes.

Julie Rootes, a working mother and advocate for women in the workforce, has garnered recognition in top design publications like Architectural Digest and Elle Décor. Leading a dedicated team, Julie oversees a personalized creative journey that begins with the client’s vision and evolves through meticulous planning and precise execution.

Whether it’s a large-scale renovation or a simple design update, clients consistently choose JRI for its seamless process, ensuring every detail is expertly curated to produce homes of enduring style and sophistication.

215 Corte Madera Avenue, Corte Madera, CA 415.891.3103 • julierootes.com

IG: @julierootesinteriors

V Studio

DESIGN + METAL FABRICATION

V Studio specializes in the design and manufacturing of ornamental and architectural metal products — from custom furniture pieces to interior design elements to gates, railings, and landscape features. With nearly 30 years’ experience working with all variety of metals and finishes, Vincent Espinoza and his team and extended network of expert craftspeople can design and build nearly any project you need for your home or business.

San Francisco Bay Area 510.846.0970 • vstudiometal.com

Integrity Electric

Now is a great time to install a Tesla Powerwall with Tesla Powerwall Certified Installer Integrity Electric!

Beginning 2024, a 30% Federal Tax Credit became available on the purchase of a Tesla Powerwall. Integrity Electric can explain the unique benefits of this product and provide a FREE in-person estimate by owner (and Redwood High School Grad) Jerry Thompson, a master electrician.

Replacing problematic service panels is another specialty niche for Integrity Electric. Many insurance companies are no longer insuring homes with obsolete panels that pose a fire threat. Integrity Electric has helped hundreds of Marin homeowners address this problem. FREE estimates are easy to schedule.

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Mention Marin Magazine and receive $100 off ANY Integrity Electric job! No matter the size, no matter the scope.

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3817 Redwood Hwy, Suite A, San Rafael, CA 415.499.8844 • IntegrityElectric.net

Sandra Bird Designs, Inc.

COLOR,

A well-organized room with good flow, combined with beautiful elements and comfort is integral in every one of Sandra Bird’s Designs. Whether the scope of your project is a new kitchen, bath, office, master suite, an addition or a new home, Sandra Bird Designs offers complete services from initial design to working drawings and construction of your project.

sandra@sandrabird.com 415.927.1171 • SandraBird.com • Lic 460795

TESLA POWERWALL AND SERVICE PANEL PROS

Stroub Construction, Inc.

HIGH-END REMODELS • NEW CONSTRUCTION

For four decades, Stroub Construction has been synonymous with exceptional and distinctive residences, where architecture, design, and attention to detail intertwine seamlessly. As a small boutique company, specializing in preconstruction services, Stroub Construction offers invaluable expertise in tailoring project budgets during the design phase. By getting involved early in the process, the company ensures that clients have a clear understanding of the financial aspects of their projects while also providing guidance and support throughout the construction journey.

At the heart of Stroub Construction’s philosophy is a commitment to standing behind their work and delivering the highest quality craftsmanship at a fair price. Homeowners place their trust in the company, knowing that the end result will not only meet but exceed their expectations. Beyond delivering exceptional homes, Stroub Construction fosters lasting relationships with clients, aiming for friendships that endure long after the project’s completion. With a legacy built on trust, integrity, and unparalleled craftsmanship, Stroub Construction continues to redefine the standards of luxury living in the Bay Area and beyond.

300 Main Street, Sausalito, CA 415.331.0621 • stroubconstruction.com

State Lic #489037

Creative Energy Hot Tubs

THE ALL-NEW HIGHLIFE® COLLECTION

Unite loved ones in the all-new Hot Spring Highlife Collection. This remarkable collection sets a new standard in hot tub design, delivering an unmatched level of luxury, performance, and rejuvenation. Since 1979, Creative Energy has provided the Bay Area with the highest quality spas, fireplaces and swim spas in the industry while maintaining the most knowledgeable, dedicated staff to servicing the products sold.

4100 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, CA 415.472.7727 • creativeenergy.com

Hartley Window Coverings

THE WINDOW COVERINGS EXPERTS

Spring is here and Summer is just around the corner. Now is the time to reimagine your outdoor space with motorized exterior solar shades. They not only provide practical benefits of sun and wind protection but can also enhance your view and expand your living space.

At Hartley Window Coverings, the team of talented design consultants stay up to date on the latest designs and innovations to help you find the best solution for your windows.

Sun damage can happen quickly to new floors and furnishings, but the right coverings can help protect them and add warmth and sophistication to your home. Motorized coverings can help ease your busy life with timers and voice control options.

With their team’s knowledgeable advice and guidance, along with an extensive source of manufacturers, Hartley can help you find the perfect application for your unique windows and style.

Contact Hartley today to schedule a consultation.

4056 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, CA 707.525.8256 • hartleywindowcoverings.com

City Carpets

NEWLY REMODELED FLOORING DESIGN CENTER

City Carpets is your locally owned, family operated flooring store that’s part of this nation’s largest flooring co-op, Carpet One, allowing them to offer the same pricing and warranties as the big SF design centers. Visit the newly remodeled design showroom for the latest styles and technology to make your decision process seamless!

555 Francisco Blvd East, San Rafael, CA 415.454.4200 • city-carpets.com • CSL #746886

Bradanini & Associates

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Bradanini & Associates have been creating sophisticated residential designs for over thirty years. A commitment to design excellence has resulted in a high standard for creative problem solving. California’s tradition of gracious outdoor living is experienced through a combination of space, color, fragrance and sound which capture the individuality of each project, resulting in gardens of simple elegance and enduring beauty.

90 Throckmorton Avenue, Suite 16 • Mill Valley, CA 415.383.9780 • bradanini.com

Heath Ceramics

MADE IN CALIFORNIA SINCE 1948

Whether you’re planning a renovation project or whiling away an afternoon, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better destination than Heath Ceramics. The B Corp-certified company has been a Sausalito staple since the 1940s, and they still design, make, and sell products under the same roof today. In addition to their iconic dinnerware, Heath offers a wide selection of beautiful hand-glazed tile that’s become a go-to for designers and architects across the globe.

There’s always something new to discover in the Heath Showroom or at heathceramics.com—and an expert team to help you find exactly what your space needs. While you can buy both dinnerware and tile online, visiting in person is well worth the trip for locals and out-of-town visitors alike (don’t skip the Overstock Tile Shed!). Heath is proof that good design and good business—including ethical, sustainable practices—are timeless.

400 Gate 5 Road, Sausalito, CA 415.332.3732 • heathceramics.com

Photo credits: American Giant, Ye Rin Mok, Nicole Franzen.

Badeloft

Badeloft takes a modern yet minimalistic approach to the design of their bathroom fixtures. They specialize in Stone Resin freestanding bathtubs, freestanding sinks, wall-mount sinks, under-mount sinks and counter-top sinks. Their Stone Resin products are made from marble and limestone mixed with a polyester resin. This year, Badeloft has introduced new stainless steel bathroom sinks, in brushed steel, rosegold brushed steel and gold brushed steel.

As far as bathtubs go, people are moving away from the acrylic and fiberglass tubs as they have zero heat retention. Since Badeloft products are made with natural minerals and the tubs are one-piece, solid fixtures, they have noticeably strong heat retention and will help the water inside stay warmer, longer.

Badeloft is a global brand based in Berlin, Germany. With showrooms throughout Europe and N. America, their US offices and showroom are located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their products are designed in Berlin ensuring that all of them demonstrate both practicality and modern innovation. They are confident that their products will be the focal point of your new bathroom.

2829 Bridgeway,

7305 Edgewater Drive, Suite D, Oakland, CA 877.892.3445 • badeloftusa.com

Shades of Green

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Shades of Green Landscape Architecture is a full-service landscape architecture firm serving Marin County for the last 20 years. Their award-winning team creates landscapes that are innovative by design and sustainable by nature. Shades of Green designs residential gardens to large-scale projects; give them a call to discuss your project today. View their work at www.shadesofgreenla.com. (Photo credit: Marion Brenner)

1306A

Sausalito,

415.332.1485 • info@shadesofgreenla.com • shadesofgreenla.com

TRAVEL

A Feel-Good Buzz

Earth-friendly and sustainable vineyards for your next Wine Country trip.

BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

Hall Family Wines

Clif Family Winery

Established in 2004 by Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford, Clif has cultivated a dedicated following for its organic wines and specialty foods in Napa Valley. Since its inception, the winery has remained committed to sustainable practices like the usage of eco-friendly shipping and packaging materials, and 100% renewable electricity in their operations. This dedication has culminated in the achievement of B Corp Certification, Napa Green Vineyards' certification for their Certified Organic vineyard. cliffamily.com

Etude Winery

At Etude, water, energy and waste are all optimized for a green outcome. Recycled water from the Carneros Pipeline Project is used for landscape irrigation and fire suppression, reducing groundwater reliance, while solar panels on-site cut energy costs and generate revenue through renewable energy credits. The compost and recycling programs minimize waste sent to landfills, and the employee-tended

vegetable garden supplies fresh produce for families and donates over 3,000 pounds yearly to Community Action of Napa Valley. etudewines.com

HALL Family Wines

Globally recognized for their quality and award-winning products, HALL stands out not only for their exceptional wines, but also for their commitment to responsible entrepreneurship. Through the WE CARE program, they demonstrate dedication across four pillars: community, arts, responsible business practices and entrepreneurship. Sustainability achievements include LEED Gold certifications for their

production and tasting facilities, as well as certification of 12 estate vineyards as sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA). hallwines.com

Sterling Vineyards

Based in Calistoga, Sterling prioritizes sustainability through renewable energy plans and wildfire mitigation efforts. With a shift towards 100% renewable electricity and the installation of solar panels, Sterling Vineyards aims to reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing operational efficiency. Their innovative use of kegs for wine distribution reduces the need for traditional glass bottles, further lowering carbon emissions. Additionally, in response to the threat of wildfires, they have implemented proactive measures such as grazing sheep to manage vegetation and removing dead trees to mitigate fire risk. sterlingvineyards.com

LEFT: COURTESY OF STERLING VINEYARDS; HALL FAMILY WINES; CLIF FAMILY WINERY; ETUDE WINERY

Clockwise from top left: Sterling Vineyards; Hall Family Wines; Etude Wines; Clif Family Winery.

Fresh Dining Destinations

BY DANA REBMANN

Dine around the world without leaving Wine Country at one of these new spots.

SONOMA COUNTY

Golden Bear Station, Kenwood

Golden Bear Station has debuted in the Highway 12 location once occupied by Tips Roadside. The latest venture for the couple behind the popular, but now-closed restaurant Animo, the menu is dominated by pizza and pasta, but you’ll also find offerings like steak frites and tuna crudo. Are you a hot honey fan? Get the pizza topped with buffalo stracciatella, soppressata, San Marzano DOP-certified tomatoes and habanero honey. goldenbearstation.com

Mezzeluna, Cotati

Come to Cotati for a taste of Greece in Wine Country! Newcomer Mezzeluna

is quickly gaining fans with its menu of Greek favorites including moussaka, gyro plates and falafel sandwiches. There’s even baklava and rice pudding for dessert. Don’t miss the Souvlaki mix — with greens, pita bread, hummus, tzatziki, rice, beef, chicken and lamb, there’s something for everyone to love. mezzeluna.com

NAPA VALLEY

The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, Yountville

The wait is finally over. The Kitchen at Priest Ranch restaurant is now open next to the Priest Ranch tasting room in Yountville. KPR offers both indoor and outdoor dining, including the only rooftop seating area in Yountville. The

restaurant menu is designed to complement Priest Ranch’s portfolio of wines, and the steak frites paired with Cabernet Sauvignon is exceptional. thekitchenatpr.com

The Slanted Door, Napa

Experience the essence of San Francisco's iconic Vietnamese dining establishment in Napa with the unveiling of The Slanted Door's latest outpost. Under the expert guidance of celebrity chef Charles Phan, guests can indulge in signature delights such as the vibrant green papaya salad and succulent shaking beef. However, aficionados of the classic pho should schedule a lunchtime visit, as it's exclusively available midday. slanteddoor.com/napa

Clockwise from left: The Kitchen at Priest Ranch; Slanted Door; Mezzeluna.

Canyon Chronicles

An eco adventure in Zion.

BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

Maybe I overstated my level of experience, I thought, gripping the saddle horn as my zesty palomino broke into a gallop up the hill. “Just squeeze her sides with your legs,” said Dale, ever so calmly in his warm drawl. Sure enough, my horse stopped at the top and I was met with the view of a sweeping canyon flanked by reddish-hued mesas.

We landed at Utah’s St. George Airport a few hours earlier — after a quick, but very bumpy flight from Salt Lake City — and arrived at Under Canvas within an hour. Located yards away from a lesser frequented entrance to Zion National Park, an intentional choice and common feature of Under Canvas

Constellations so bright and clear they are unmissable to even the most amateur astronomers, with the Milky Way like a dazzling ripped seam in the middle.

properties, the glamping tents looked like an unraveling corral of Conestoga wagons dotting the hillside.

Bags were dropped, clothes were changed and we were off to the races. Down near the main gathering area horses were being prepped by a couple of cowboys, who we soon learned were J.R., owner of Blue Sage Adventures, and his son Dale. After a quick tutorial, we were up in the saddle and hoofing it through the big, silvery sagebrush in minutes. As we strolled, Dale pointed out various streams and shrubs and areas that had recently burned. Zion is an incredibly diverse biological area with four different life zones — desert, riparian, woodland and coniferous forest.

CANYONEERING

Refreshed in the morning, in my seemingly hermetic tent that was void of any usual clandestine tent insects the entire duration of the trip, I suited up for today’s adventures. We meander down to the lobby, where an assortment of grab-and-go items are available in addition to a generous breakfast menu and full, barista-operated cafe. It’s time to hit the canyon.

Lambs Knoll, a dry slot canyon, is about a five-minute drive from the property. Although it’s technically not within Zion

National Park, Lambs Knoll is right across the road from the park boundary and is, for all intents and purposes aside from legal ones, a Zion peak. Here we meet Jared, owner of Zion Amazing Adventures. An American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) and wilderness first responder, he’s the kind of guy you trust and listen to as he gives normally insane-sounding directions like ninja-kicking walls and spider climbing through narrow canyons.

Brazen with fresh knowledge of belay devices and carabiners that will be halfway retained, we wind around the curved red walls, teetering at what feel like 90-degree angles, scramble up Navajo Sandstone, rappel down a few 50-foot cliffs and slip through a slot canyon all in a few hours. Our day isn’t over yet.

EXPLORING THE CANYON

From outcroppings like the Great White Throne and the Court of the Patriarchs to other stunning sights like the teal-tinged Virgin River, there is a lot to see and take in in Zion. Finally,

STARRY NIGHTS

Under Canvas Grand C ircle Camps (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell-Grand Staircase and Moab) have been recognized as the world’s rst ocial DarkSky-certied resorts, and there’s a program to celebrate. Complimentary for all guests, “We Own The Night” ranges from astronomy talks and starbathing meditations to full-moon hikes. Keep it glowing all night and stay in one of the stargazer tents to see some of the upcoming astronomical events from the comfort of bed.

APRIL 22:

Lyrids Meteor Shower

MAY 6:

Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower

MAY 23: May Flower Full Moon

properly within park boundaries, we opt for the e-bike route to get the most in, in the closest way possible. Zion Bikes is among the many rental options and after viewing a brief safety video we’re advised by an employee apparently throwing caution and risk of lawsuits to the wind, that we “need to use turbo.”

In the canyon, not bold enough to go turbo quite yet, colorful sandstone mountaintops reveal themselves around every turn. We cross bridges, pass wild turkeys, try not to keep stopping for photos. Other than that we don’t see much of the other 289 birds, 79 mammals, 28 reptiles, seven fish and six amphibian species that call this place home, but do hear frogs. The sun starts to lower and like putting on readers, colors condense and everything comes more into focus. Another full day wrapping, we put the bikes in turbo mode and zoom back.

HOME BASE

Chips and artichoke dip, burgers, fried chicken sandwiches and cauliflower bites — all of it came out of the solar-powered kitchen back at camp, served on metal trays with compostable dining utensils. Bats take to the sky at dusk as we lounge around the fire pit, watching the sky turn pink and then lavender, indulging in our food and low ABV wine — this is Utah, remember. S’mores are doled out nightly, and we grab ours and head to a campfire closer to our tents.

While the nostalgia of campfire s’mores is sweet, the stars are the star of the evening. Constellations so bright and clear they are unmissable to even the most amateur astronomers, with the Milky Way like a dazzling ripped seam in the middle. A tired, star-stricken city dweller, I shuffle to the comforts of my tent, though calling it a tent feels deceitful. Furnished with a large West Elm bed, cushy bedding, a wood burning stove and several lanterns aglow thanks to rechargeable USB battery packs — the entire property is solar-powered — this is closer to a luxury cabin.

I hop in the shower, where water is conserved with a pull-chain, and slather up with familiar EO bath products. Under Canvas boasts that Wi-fi isn’t offered to guests on purpose so that they can connect with others, but I luck out and have service. In bed, I fire off a few texts and wait for the sound of coyotes people say can be heard from a distance. Either I am dead asleep or they stay quiet.

JARED WRIGHT (CLIMBING); @BAILEYMADE

Clockwise from top: main gathering area, climbing, tent interior, onsite dining.

Herb & Jane Dwight

Carmen Castro-Franceschi & Greg Franceschi

Suzanne

Graham

Susan

Deborah Freed Goldman &

Gruber

Sheila

Tracy Solomon

Denise

Jamienne

OUT ABOUT AND

Community Ongoings

Earth Day celebrations, an abundance of fim fests and other excellent events.

Woman in Chicken Hat, Irving Penn

Nancy Karp + Dancers

CALENDAR

California Academy of Sciences

The Bay Area is prioritizing the environment this month, with Earth Day volunteer opportunities and nature-inspired art shows, to boot.

EDITED BY MIMI PINSON

April Festival and Fairs

APRIL 13 Cesar Chavez & Dolores Huerta Holiday Parade and Festival Honor labor activists and United Farm Workers co-founders Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta in this parade through San Francisco’s Mission District. A festival finishes out the afternoon with food, dancing and Hispanic pride. cesarchavezday.org

APRIL 13–14 & 20–21 57th Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival Taiko drumming, steaming ramen and the beautiful flowers of cherry blossoms — head to San Francisco’s Japantown for two weekends of events showcasing Japanese and Japanese American culture. sfcherryblossom.org

APRIL 19–21 Point Reyes Birding and Nature Festival Did you know that Pt. Reyes National Seashore boasts the most avian diversity of any U.S. National Park? Unplug for the weekend and enjoy the 15th year of this West Marin nature extravaganza. pointreyesbirdingfestival.org

APRIL 21 Earth Day Mill Valley For familyfriendly and earth-conscious activities, art and music, head to the Mill Valley Community Center and learn how to make a more sustainable world. millvalleyrecreation.org

ARTS, THEATER AND LECTURES

APRIL 4–MAY 23 The Speakeasy: Age of Scoaws Want to practice your Mid-Atlantic accent? Party like Gatsby at The Speakeasy, a Prohibition-themed bar and immersive theatrical experience. Period actors coexist alongside patrons, living out storylines in this interactive play (that’s also a bar, casino and cabaret show). thespeakeasysf.com

APRIL 5–7 Birds & Balls The world is full of great pairings: wine and cheese, peanut butter and jelly, competitive finch singing and Billie Jean King… Opera Parallèle, in collaboration with SFJAZZ, presents a comedic double bill of new operatic works. First, follow Flemish finch sitting with Vinkensport, then pull it together for the one-act Balls about tennis’ infamous Battle of the Sexes. operaparallele.org

APRIL 6–8 Eppur si muove & y through the night, and land near dawn Artful contemporary dance set to music by the Friction Quartet: the Nancy Karp + Dancers’ April program presents two works choreographed by company director Nancy Karp. The evening promises intricate visuals, with both works inspired by the movement of songbirds. nancykarp.org

A New Hope. A New Home.

"This new building will enable Ritter Center to expand their services to reach many more people and to have a remarkable place that can serve as a beacon of hope and dignity."

—Rhea Suh, President & CEO, Marin Community Foundation

The Speakeasy: Age of Scoaws

MUSIC

APRIL 2 Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott Cello great Yo-Yo Ma performs alongside his longtime collaborator, pianist Kathryn Stott, for a classical program that spans musical style and period as part of SF Symphony’s “Bucket-List Brilliance” series. sfsymphony.org

APRIL 3 & 4 Fatoumata Diawara Afrobeats and Afropop dominated this year’s post-Grammys discourse, and anybody wanting to listen to the continent’s many musical traditions would be in good hands with Fatoumata Diawara. The Malian singer’s beautiful voice, casual guitar virtuosity and Wassoulou influences catapulted her to global stardom. sfjazz.org

APRIL 7 Joan Osbourne Nearly 20 years since releasing her hit song “One of Us,” Joan Osbourne continues to put out incisive country-infused rock. Osbourne brings her band, noted for great live performances, to the Sweetwater for one night of performance. sweetwatermusichall.com

APRIL 13 & 14 Montgomery, Shostakovich & Mozart Principal pianist John Wilson shines in this set featuring a range of works from the modern “Starburst” to Mozart’s final symphony, “Jupiter.” The weekend of performances hits two venues: College of Marin and Novato’s Marin School of the Arts. marinsymphony.org

APRIL 14 Patti LuPone: A Life in Notes Another SF Symphony highlight this month, Patti LuPone reflects on her storied career through a “personal musical memoir,” in her own words. Musical theater’s darling and a three-time Tony Award winner, LuPone returns to the Davies Symphony Hall for the first time since 2019. sfsymphony.org

FILM

APRIL 12–14 International Ocean Film Festival Explore the deep ocean with groundbreaking films about our seas and underwater ecosystems. Can’t make it to the live screenings at Cowell Theater at Fort Mason? The festival also broadcasts films online from April 15–22. intloceanfilmfest.org

APRIL 24–28 San Francisco International Film Festival

The longest running film festival in the Americas, the 67th annual SFFilm Festival attracts top filmmakers for a packed five days of premieres. If anyone sees Greta Gerwig, please get me an autograph. sffilm.org

APRIL 26–MAY 5 Alexander Valley Film Festival

A film festival nestled in Sonoma Wine Country, AVFest highlights independent films from and about underrepresented communities. With discounted tickets for students and lowincome neighbors, this festival seeks to connect filmmakers and their craft to the community. avfilmpresents.org

MUSEUMS

THROUGH APRIL 21 Memento Mori | Memento Vivere Within the grounds of Marin Art and Garden Center, this multimedia art exhibit reflects on cycles of life and nature. Photography, sculpture and ikebana displays embody the exhibit’s title, which translates to “Remember that you must die | Remember that you must live.” maringarden.org

THROUGH APRIL 28 Spring in the Garden

The Cal Academy’s East Garden is overrun with giant bugs! These six-legged animatronics are just one attraction at this spring event, which also features a water table for DIY boats and more nature-inspired activities. calacademy.org

THROUGH APRIL 30 Breaking Through: Black History at Tam High, 1910 to the Present On view for free at Mill Valley Public Library, Breaking Through documents and celebrates notable Black alumni of Tamalpais High School. An achievement of local historical preservation, this exhibit contextualizes Marin’s stories within national histories of race relations. millvalleylibrary.org

Memento Mori/ Memento Vivere

APRIL 24 Art Bash Party at SFMOMA?

Fundraising for the museum’s educational and family programming, SFMOMA’s much anticipated Art Bash is a night of dinner, cocktails and dancing from the first floor atrium to the rooftop pavilion. Installation artists and local DJs make the party’s environs unforgettable. sfmoma.org

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

THROUGHOUT APRIL Marin Wildower Walks April means spring flowers, and Marin’s open space promises them in abundance. Marin County Parks hosts multiple guided wildflower hikes throughout April, including trails on Ring Mountain, Mount Burdell/ Olompais, Tiburon Upland and Baltimore Canyon. parks.marincounty.org

APRIL 8 Solar Eclipse Grab your protective glasses because the moon will pass in front of the sun for a rare total solar eclipse… in the Midwest. But Marin will still see a partial eclipse starting at 10 a.m., with the eclipse peaking just after 11 a.m.

APRIL 19 San Rafael Downtown Clean & Green Day Take care of your town this Earth Day with a morning of cleanup through San Rafael’s downtown. Volunteers will clean trash, pick weeds and cover graffiti while wearing oh-so stylish reflective vests. downtownsanrafael.org

CARLOS PORRATA

Pt. Reyes Birding and Nature Festival

APRIL 20 Free National Parks Day

Every year, the National Park Service grants a handful of free days for national parks around the country. Check out some of our great local parks like Muir Woods, or seize the opportunity to escape to far-flung places like Yosemite or Sequoia. nps.gov

THROUGHOUT APRIL Cal Parks Earth Day Cleanups For even more Earth Day activities, you can check out California’s state parks. Several Bay Area state parks host cleanups, such as Angel Island on April 6 and China Camp on April 20. calparks.org

EVENTS

APRIL 20 Butter and Eggs Day Parade

Petaluma’s agricultural history shines in the 41st annual parade celebrating the community and local business. Keep an eye out for local celebrity Clover the Cow, who usually makes an appearance. petalumadowntown.com

APRIL 20 The Great Tomato Market

Not for throwing! UC Marin’s Master Gardeners sell tomato starts designed specially for growing in Marin gardens. This yearly fundraiser supports educational programming and community gardens organized by this extension of the University of California, which aims to sustain Marin’s environment and agriculture. marinmg.ucanr.edu

APRIL 20 Bay Area Brew Fest It’s a little intimidating. For one day only, 70+ breweries will set up shop on the Presidio Main Lawn. Admission includes unlimited samples from participating breweries, plus access to food trucks to keep you sane. bayareabrewfestival.com

APRIL 27 Heads Up Carnival San Rafael’s schools gather for a free carnival with music, games and pupusas. Chill out, get your face painted and support public schools. headsupsr.org

Join us for our black-tie gala

Saturday, April 20, 2024

MarinHealth Cancer Care

through the purchase of the Eclipse ™ Treatment Planning System

THANK YOU TO OUR LEAD SPONSORS*

Emerald

A.J. & Melissa Rohde

Jinnie K. Simonsen & John V. Carbone Foundation

Heffernan Family Foundation Hadley Mullin & Dan Kalafatas Chartreuse

Betsy & Ed McDermott Reta A. Haynes

Marie Boylan & Jeffrey Freedman

Bruce Braden

Miranda & Justin Chen

Dr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Dietz

Jeanne Sciutti Capurro & Family

Doug Dossey & Kathrin Dellago

Erin & Alex Earls

Sharon A. Early

Wine Sponsor

Stephanie & Mark Robinson Peridot

Jade

Susan & Michael Schwartz

Chris & Bob Feibusch

Tiffany & Brandon Gantus

Susan & Dennis Gilardi

Catherine & Rob Hale

Nancy & Skip Kniesche

MarinHealth Urology

Julie & Ian McGuire

Tucky & John Pogue

Nancy P. & Richard K.

Robbins Family Foundation

The Schultz Foundation

Ken & Judy Siebel

Holly Tate & Scott Clark

Lois & Mel Tukman

Julie & Timothy Van Voris

Media Sponsor Standby Ambulance Sponsor

Our Cancer Care Team is always planning several steps ahead

At MarinHealth, we strive to deliver the most patient-centric, personalized care possible. This is especially important in treating cancer, where care plans are tailored to the type and stage of the disease, the patient’s preferences, general health, and sometimes, even their genes.

When a patient is prescribed radiotherapy to reduce or eliminate a tumor, our experts create an individualized treatment plan to make radiation therapy safe, effective, and accurate. Prior to treatment, the team performs a detailed simulation using 3D images of the areas to be irradiated taken from a variety of angles. The goal is to find positions that will yield the best results and allow the patient to remain as comfortable as possible without moving. Simulation yields a customized radiotherapy plan, specifying precise body positions, the angle and intensity of radiation, the number of treatment fields, and other variables.

As of 2026, MarinHealth’s current radiotherapy planning software will no longer be supported by the manufacturer. Replacing this equipment will allow us to take cancer care to the next level. Our goal is to acquire the Eclipse ™ Treatment Planning System from Varian Medical Systems, the country’s leading provider of radiotherapy planning software. This advanced system:

• Enables the creation of high-quality, personalized treatment plans

• Promotes treatment consistency benchmarking against prior clinical practice

• Streamlines and accelerates the planning process without sacrificing accuracy

• Harnesses AI-based capabilities and includes 15 new features that enable physicians to work with even greater precision

• Allows the radiologist to adjust doses in real-time

• Calculates radiation doses with greater speed and accuracy

Our radiologists need the most advanced tools to design the clear, targeted, customized treatment plan our patients deserve. Your support can help us equip them with the remarkable Eclipse ™ Treatment Planning System.

We hope you will join us in our efforts to keep MarinHealth on the leading-edge of cancer care.

WE NEED YOU ON OUR TEAM

Customizing a radiotherapy plan is a team effort, requiring clinicians and technicians to consult and collaborate, informed by the most advanced planning technology. Your support for the acquisition of the Eclipse ™ Treatment Planning System will help us continue to provide the exceptional care we are renowned for throughout the North Bay.

“

THIS IS A VERY EXCITING time in Radiation Oncology with stunning advances in technology, software, and artificial intelligence. We are so thankful for the generous support of our community which enables us to deliver the most accurate, effective, and safe radiation treatments close to home.

—Lloyd Miyawaki, MD MPH, Radiation Oncologist

DINE

NEWNESS IN NOVATO

BY KASIA PAWLOWSKA

New owners, new locations and familiar chefs in new places — it’s all happening in Novato.

LA MAISON DE LA REINE

After 20 years at Town Center in Corte Madera, this Vietnameseeatery has moved to Grant Avenue.

• Vietnamese Sandwiches

• BBQ Pork

• BBQ Chicken

• Combination Ham and Steam Pork Patty

• Steam Pork Patty lamaisondelareine.net

STAR RESTAURANT

TOAST

Missing San Rafael’s La Vier?

The restaurant’s chef, Guillermo Lara, now operates from Toast in Novato Sunday–Wednesday evenings after 5 p.m. toastnovato.com

Yeehaw! Star Restaurant in Novato is back, cowboy style. The new owners are continuing to serve the beloved American breakfast, lunch and dinner in addition to new Latin American oerings. 415.897.1970

CORTE MADERA

Burmatown Asian

Though the menu remains largely the same (that tea leaf salad! Those bao!) at the new location down the street from the original, the addition of a grill boosts the menu with dishes like kalbi ribs or smoked salmon collars. A long bar on one side of the room serves wine and beer and the front windows slide open for easy access to a large patio. 18 Tamalpais Ave, 415.985.5060; burmatown.com

$ BB

Flores Mexican

With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and avors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around gluten-free masa. The daily-made tortillas are a highlight. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.500.5145; oressf.com

HH BB

Marin Joe’s Italian

A mainstay for over 50 years for a reason: the menu calls to you with garlic bread, a calamari sandwich and mesquite-grilled prime rib. Sautéed classics of the ItalianAmerican canon as well as oysters doré and pastas have withstood the test of time.

1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081; marinjoesrestaurant. com

Zinz Wine Bar

Californian

Locals pop by the petite wine bar for its cozy atmosphere and an eclectic array

of boutique wines and craft beer, all available for takeout. A short menu of prosciutto-wrapped dates, charcuterie and cheese boards is perfect for enjoying during a Friday night tasting event. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466; zinzwinebar.com

HH$

FAIRFAX

Fradelizio’s Italian A perennial neighborhood gem, the cozy space welcomes all with daily specials (salmon, line-caught in Bolinas, with a golden beet and arugula salad, house made Meyer lemon fettuccine with salmon and asparagus) and a wine by the barrel program.

35 Broadway Blvd, 415.459.1618; fradelizios.com

Sorella Cae Italian

Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella serves fresh Italian with a northern influnce. Favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli, pollo alla Sorella and the garlic bread.

107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520; sorellacae.com

HH $ BB

HH $ BB

GREENBRAE KENTFIELD

Guesthouse

Californian

Jared Rogers, the former executive chef of Picco, heads up the kitchen, partnering with restaurateur Dustin Sullivan on this 110-seat space. Look for well-executed California cuisine with

OUT AND ABOUT DINE

weekly specials like Prime Rib on Mondays and fried chicken on Sundays. 850 College Ave, Kenteld, 415.419.5101; guesthousemarin.com

HH

Half Day Cafe

American

Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this cafe is the quintessential breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch, including coee drinks, pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual daytime meal inside or out on the patio. 848 College Ave, Kenteld, 415.459.0291; halfdaycafe.net

$BB

LARKSPUR

Left Bank Restaurant

French

This Parisian-style brasserie by Chef Roland Passot has been serving the community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, bar or in the elegant main dining room with a huge replace, it’s a fun experience. The menu features authentic French cuisine utilizing seasonal, local and organic ingredients. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331; leftbank.com

Perry’s American

Perry’s on Magnolia has the same classic American cuisine, bustling bar and warm service and personality the San Francisco original has always been famous for. Plentiful outdoor dining options. It’s bar is a perennial best of the county winner.

234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877; perryssf.com BB

Pizzeria Picco Pizza

This family-friendly parlor next door to Picco oers Californiainuenced Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven. Fresh mozzarella is pulled in-house and the menu also features organic salads, antipasti and Straus Dairy softserve ice cream. Heated outdoor seating is available. 316 Magnolia Ave, 415.945.8900; pizzeriapicco.com

$

R’noh Thai Thai

This cozy place with a patio by the Corte Madera Creek has a reputation for fresh avors. It’s all here, from curries and Thai barbecue to noodle dishes and the classic tom kha (coconut lemongrass soup). For an indulgent treat, try the fried sweet potato appetizer. 1000 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.0599; rnohthai.com

$

Rustic Bakery Californian

The Marin-grown bakery is known and loved the world over: Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery atbread and crostini when he visited the U.S. in 2015. Organic bread and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups make this a staple. 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900 and 1139 Magnolia Ave; 415.925.1556; rusticbakery.com

$

MILL VALLEY

Bungalow 44

American

The bustling bar is ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order of the house’s famous kickin’ fried chicken. The one-dollar happy hour oyster program still operates from 5–6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and the heated outdoor patio is a town hot spot. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500; bungalow44.com

Floodwater

Californian

Order a handcrafted “Gold Rush” (Old Forester bourbon, local honey, lemon) at the long 20 seat bar and watch the game on ve huge 4K TVs while noshing on pork belly steamed buns, or dive into Shorty’s Tall Reuben. The patio features multiple re pits. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; flodwatermv.com HH $

Gravity Tavern

American

With ingredients suited to reflet modern tastes, American classics like grilled chicken Waldorf salad with pickled grapes, lobster roll with toasted challah and veggie slaw, and a land and sea pasta with housemade egg pasta, pork belly and crab, may have also been familiar fare for passengers of the Mt. Tam gravity car for which this saloon was named. 38 Miller Ave, 415.888.2108; gravitytavern.com BB HH

Harmony Chinese

A warm, inviting place to enjoy classical and innovative Cantonese fare with the house specialty, hand crafted dim sum. Local favorites include savory Peking duck with steamed tea buns, juicy Shanghai dumplings and unique bites like minced lamb with radicchio cups. The famous signature

dining room feels like a boat’s galley and the spot’s popular outdoor beer garden adjacent to Mill Valley’s Proof Lab at Tam Junction has 13 taps, but the draw at this counter-service joint is the seafood. The transparent supply chain means you can enjoy the poke, sh and chips or sh tacos knowing where and on what boat your meal came from. 254 Shoreline Hwy; hookshco.com

Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian

Calabrian chili.

625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com

Tamalpie Italian

With views of Mt. Tam from the covered, heated patio, this spot known for its local sourcing also features two replaces and a full bar serving craft cocktails, wine and beer. The dierence is in the dough, small batch, housemade and gluten-free. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437; tamalpiepizzeria.com

bounty of Marin. The Stemple Creek Ranch burger and fresh pastas are matched with a bevy of simply prepared, easy to share dishes.

129 Miller Ave, 415.888.2406; watershed.com

NOVATO

beef is a denite must. 401 Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300; harmonyrestaurant group.com

Hook Fish Co Seafood

The wood-ceilinged

A replace lounge and open format concept invites lingering over refreshed menu items such as house made ravioli with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black true oil or roasted salmon with artichokes and

Watershed Californian

Gather ’round the re pit in front of the restaurant at the Lumber Yard or hang out at the long bar for a predinner glass of wine before sampling one of the many dishes curated to reflet the

Perry’s American Epic burgers and cocktails, excellent service, signature blueand-white gingham tablecloths — expect all of those and more here at Perry’s northernmost location. 224 Alameda Del Prado, 415.506.4212; perryssf.com BB

The Speakeasy American

In addition to the 10 beers on tap, cocktails range from the 1920s to the 2020s. A shareable, tapas-style

Side Street Kitchen

Taco Jane’s

Come join us for breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch! From stuffed, pecancrusted french toast to delicious scrambles, juicy burgers and fantastic salads, our menus change to reflect the seasons. Spring is approaching and we’re preparing a wonderful Easter and Passover menu. Visit our website or give us a call to place your holiday order. Happy Spring!

COMFORTS

335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com

OUT AND ABOUT DINE

menu includes grilled maitake mushrooms, escargot and mini street tacos. 504 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.7793; thespeakeasynovato. com HH$

Toast American

With outdoor dining and spacious inside seating at Hamilton Marketplace, large parties, families and everyone else dives in on comfort food favorites like corned beef hash, buttermilk pancakes and at dinner, chicken schnitzel and shrimp scampi. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144; toastnovato.com $

Trailhead American Order breakfast, shareable snacks, paninis, salads, and Equator coee drinks at the counter before grabbing a seat on the all-day café’s shaded patio. The baked goat cheese is a standout and pairs with the 10 local beers and two wines available on tap or from the craft can program. 127 San Marin Dr, 415.493.6902; trailheadnovato.com $

SAN ANSELMO ROSS

The Baan Thai Cuisine Thai Known for its mango sticky

rice, crispy corn cakes and The Baan Thai salad, new menu items like fresh spring rolls and steamed dumplings and old favorites such as the tom kha soup entice with fresh avors and just the right amount of sweet heat. 726 San Anselmo Ave, 415.457.9470; baanthaimarin.com

Comforts Cafe American Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stued pecan-crusted

French toast, chicken Okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans), Korean BBQ ank steak and Wor Won Ton soup. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840; comfortscafe.com

$ BB

Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American

A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, avorful pastas and fresh salads, Creekside oers plentiful glutenfree and vegan options too. Their copper bar with a 40-handle selection of craft beer (including gluten-free beer), plus wine and kombucha on tap. 638 San Anselmo Ave,

415.785.4450; creeksidesa.com

Cucina sa Italian Open for lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner six nights a week, come by for homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood-red pizzas that strike a balance between southern Italy and Northern California. Don’t skip the happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, either!

510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942; cucina-sa.com

Flour Craft Bakery American

Along with artisan

gluten-free and an assortment of vegan pastries, breads and special-occasion cakes, this petite cafe serves a lunch menu of so-called fancy toast and big green salads with seasonal air. 702 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3100; florcraftbakery.com

$BB

Madcap Californian

Chef Ron Siegel’s contemporary art-lled space is known for its urban edge. The vegetable-centric menu, available as a tasting menu, incorporates seafood and Japanese techniques in colorful dishes like trout with baby bok choy, purple daikon and

Redwoods_Marin_ad

dashi that are bold, balanced and bright. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.453.9898; madcapmarin.com

BB BB

Marché Californian

Into the former Marche aux Fleurs space, Marché’s owners Darren and Alicia Banks focus on seasonal ingredients in plates of avocado toast with Urfa chile, shishito peppers with togarashi, and house made gnocchi with shiitakes is Californian all the way. 23 Ross Common, Ross; 415.925.9200; marchemarin. com N

Marinitas Mexican

This sister restaurant of Insalata’s continues to ourish as a bastion of creative Mexican and Central and South American cuisine. Not

your typical south-ofthe-border spot, they serve up top-notch margaritas and Latin lusciousness.

218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.454.8900; marinitas.com

HH $ BB

Taco Jane’s Mexican

The full bar features plentiful tequila and mezcal selections and its regional Mexican cuisine includes Oaxacan mole, sh tacos and vegetarian options. Black Gold salsa arrives with complimentary chips and is created from charred blackened tomatoes and roasted chilis. Enclosed patio seating is available year round. 21 Tamalpais Ave, 415.454.6562; tacojanes.com

HH $ BB

Valenti & Co. Italian

The bright yet cozy indoor space and warmly lit back patio are ideal environments for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes daily but look for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert.

337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800; valentico.com

SAN RAFAEL

Cafe Arrivederci

Italian

Located in the heart of San Rafael for the past 27 years! Chef Tito is proud to serve fresh homemade pastas and dishes from

all over Italy. Visit the expansive dining room, full bar, garden patio and private rooms for parties and events. 11 G St, 415.453.6427; cafearrivederci.com N

Cafe del Soul

Californian Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. 1408 Fourth St, 415.457.5400; cafedelsoul.net $

Red Rooster Brick Oven

American

sauce, Red Rooster wings are a must-order at an all-day Italian American restaurant with a sprinkling of Asian avors. A thin crust pizza pulled from the brick oven is available at breakfast, too (gluten-free crust is available), and a changing menu of daily oerings. The buttermilkfried chicken sandwich with house made chipotle aioli has a dedicated following and the Boston clam chowder might just convince a few New Englanders to relocate. 901 B St., 415.234.8414; redroosterbrick oven.com $ N HH $ BB HH $ BB

Roasted in the brick oven, then brushed with sweet and spicy garlic

Vin Antico American Vin Antico, “where passion meets the plate,” serves seasonal marketinspired cuisine like

AL FRESCO SHOPPING & DINING

Sports Basement, Marin Beauty Company, European Wax Center, and over 55 other restaurants, stores and services

Rowland Blvd Exit, Highway 101

ShopVintageOaks.com

stone-oven-baked atbreads, handmade pastas and organic salads, all innovatively prepared. Black sesame-crusted tuna is classic, even better with an Il Capo negroni. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600; vinantico.com

BB N

SAUSALITO

Angelino Restaurant

Italian

Multiple generations of the Ancona family create an authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti that has showcased the cuisine of the Campania regionfor more than 20 years. 621 Bridgeway,

415.331.5225; angelino restaurant.com

Fish Seafood

It has been said that this restaurant and sh market launched the sustainable seafood movement, making it the ultimate place for freshly caught, unobjectionable fare. Order any of the day’s oerings — the menu changes — daily but usually has a variation of sh tacos, ceviche and grilled sh. 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474; 331sh.com

Kitti’s Place Thai This home-style family-run restaurant has been in town

for over 20 years. It features Californiainspired favorites like lettuce cups stued with chicken and almonds, soft spring rolls and a curried turkey burger. A patio out front gets midday sun. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390; kittisplace.com

$

Poggio Italian Vitello sliced excruciatingly thin and topped with lemon and tonnato sauce is a singular dish in the hands of executive chef Benjamin Balesteri who creates Northern Italian fare using local and Italian ingrdients. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771; poggiotrattoria.com BB

Seafood Peddler Restaurant and Fish Market Seafood

The sh is bought daily and is on display in the Market from local shers, who are also restaurant patrons. The happy hour bar scene — Monday to Thursday specials that are well worth the visit — is one of the best in town. Enjoy cioppino, local petrale sole and fresh Monterey Bay calamari, crab cakes and clam chowder. Great views from every table and awesome patio dining when weather permits! Recipes are adjusted to incorporate the freshest sustainable catch. 303 Johnson St, 415.332.1492; seafoodpeddlersausalito. com HH BB

The Spinnaker

Seafood

Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautifully plated presentations like a classic shrimp Louie salad or linguini with clams. Set right on the water with sweeping views of San Francisco.

100 Spinnaker Dr, 415.332.1500; spinnakersa sausalito.us

TIBURON

The Bungalow Kitchen Californian A lively social lounge and restaurant from chef Michael Mina and Brent Bolthouse boasts

epic views and a menu of seasonal California fare executed by chef Harrison Chernick. The upstairs lounge boasts late-night service (until 12 a.m.), a billiards table, a gas-powered replace, and a live DJ on weekends. 5 Main St, 415.366.4088; bungalowkitchen.com

BB BB BB BB HH BB

The Caprice Californian Expansive bay views from every seat are just one of many charms after an extensive remodel. The revamped menu of well-crafted comfort food from land (bone-in let mignon, Colorado lamb chops) and sea (gnocchi with crab, abalone dore).

Amazing Views. Amazing Life.

2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400; thecaprice.com

HH BB

Malibu Farm Californian

The latest SoCal-to-NorCal culinary import to Tiburon features a home-grown and sustainable ethos, in dishes like fennel-rubbed boneless half chicken and soyginger hanger steak. The menu leans into seafood — there are ample choices for caviar, salmon, oysters and other ocean treats — as well as vegan or glutenfree reimaginings. Look for a pork

belly taco with a jicama wrap and the more famliar lobster roll on a hot dog bun. 9 Main St, malibu-farm.com BB BB

Petite Left Bank French

A smaller version of the Larkspur original features an all-day menu of French bistro classics. A notable wine list, artisan craft cocktail menu and spiritfree beverages round out the lively experience. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.910.1010; petiteleftbank tiburon.com $ N

Salt & Pepper American

A locals favorite for classic American fare. From morning’s Bloody Mary and eggs Benedict through lunch’s clams bouillabaisse and hamburger to dinner’s crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce and skirt steak tacos. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594; saltandpepper tiburon.com BB

Tiburon Tavern Californian Food service at the Lodge at Tiburon is in the

hands of Luna

Blu’s Renzo and Crystal Azzarello who run the Tiburon Tavern bar, restaurant and other on-site eating opportunities. Executive chef Selvin Vicente is on board to handle the ow from breakfast and brunch through dinner. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.3133; lodge attiburon.com

HH BB

WEST MARIN

Side Street

Kitchen

American

The ne-casual eatery led by chef Aaron Wright serves favorites like rotisserie chicken, and pork-belly BLTs as well as wholesome vegetarian fare. This is one of the few spots in West Marin that serves gluten-free beer. The cozy patio is shaded and dog-friendly. 60 Fourth St, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.0303; sidestreet-prs.com $BB

Station House

Cafe American

Known for their house made popovers, this cozy cafe is also recognized for fresh oysters, grass-fed burgers, and an “everything fresh, local and homegrown” ethos. Dining in the garden is as popular on weekdays as on the weekends. 11285 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.1515; stationhousecafe. com $BB

BY DONNA BERRY GLASS

ON SCENE THE

Hearts Afire at the Marin alentine’s Ball

The Marin Valentine's Ball, a long-standing favorite fundraiser, was held on February 10 at the San Rafael Civic Center. The annual event benefits not on, but three Marin nonprofits — the North Bay Children’s Center, the Godmothers of Catholic Charities St. Vincent’s School for Boys and Side by Side. 370 supporters turned out for cocktails, a seated dinner by Sage Catering, an awards ceremony honoring Joy Phoenix, silent and live auctions and a post-dinner set with Wonder Bread 5. TV personality Liam Mayclem emceed the event with his lively banter. By the evening’s end, the event generated more than $325,000 for the vulnerable youth of Marin County.

By the Bay Health’s Springtime in Seville

Guests were transported to a charming Spanish enclave where life is vibrant and abundant at By the Bay Health's annual gala, Springtime in Seville. Held on February 3 at the Clubhouse at Peacock Gap, the event delivered a full evening of Spanish-inspired appetizers, cocktails and dinner fare highlighting the extraordinary flavors of the region. Guests were treated to a lively Flamenco performance, and enjoyed the groovy sounds of Entourage Band following the evening's presentation led by By the Bay Health's CEO, Skelly Wingard. The $750,000 raised during the evening supports the nonprofits Community Care Fund, which helps patients and families in need with equal access to quality, compassionate care and support programs.

CHRIS CONSTANTINE (VALENTINE'S BALL); STEVEN GREGORY PHOTOGRAPHY (BY THE BAY)

1 Toni Workman-Braden, Shelby Decosta; 2 The Meislin Family; 3 Skelly Wingard, Naveen Kumar, Armika Berkley.

1 Dr. Tom Roeder, Carol Roeder and Chris Brown; 2 Elizabeth Estes, Victoria Dade and Radhi Ahern; 3 Natu Tuatagaloa, Joy Phoenix and Jim Phoenix; 4 MVB dancers.

My name is Chris Catalano and I am a cosmetic dentist in Marin County. My passion is helping people feel beautiful when they smile. I spent half of my career in Southern California learning and teaching cosmetic dentistry. The other half I have spent in Marin County. Living in these two distinct regions has allowed me to see and deliver the full spectrum of veneers. From the Hollywood bright smile to natural subtle beauty, I know how to deliver your personalized smile.

We have a lot to smile about. Let’s create the smile of your dreams.

Vivalon Opens Healthy Aging Campus

On February 9, the Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus officially went om dream to reality during its grand opening ceremony hosted by Eden Housing. The campus for senior living, which is also San Rafael’s first car-free community, features 67 units of 100% affordable senior homes. It also includes the new Vivalon Healthy Aging Center and Integrated Care Clinic that combines traditional medical services with coordinated care, social engagement, learning opportunities, nutrition services and activities and programs designed to promote healthy aging.

Breaking Ground for Ritter Center's New Home

The sledgehammers flew at 16 Ritter treet in San Rafael on January 25, as representatives and supporters of Ritter Center broke ground for a new 14,000-square-foot facility to replace its existing site. Budgeted at $14.5 million and anticipated to open at the end of 2024, the new building will expand Ritter Center's medical and behavioral health services, double its food pantry capacity as well as offer adequate worspace for the nonprofits staff and volunteers.

Were You On the Scene?

Check out our new page to nd out! Marin had no shortage of events supporting our amazing county. If we missed yours — or if you have an upcoming event — please ll out our form for consideration.

1 Shirin Vakharia; 2 Linda Mandolini, Kate Colin and Anne Grey;

3 Joe O’Hehir and Rick Williams; 4 Jamila Afandi, Tamar Saunders, Kamelia Soliman, Elitsa Shepherd and Tammy Ng.

Kate Colin, Mark Shotwell, Katie Smith and David Neagle.

4

MARIN HOME

A Colorful Personality

In Inverness, a second home is brimming with vibrant hues and eclectic character.

BY LOTUS ABRAMS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MERKL

Set against a striking backdrop of muted lime green walls, the resurfaced replace in the living room features a reclaimed wood mantle from Black’s Farmwood.

“One might describe the aesthetic as ‘dapper,’ but at the same time, it feels rustic, eclectic and altogether cheerful.”

The tiny West Marin hamlet of Inverness on the shores of Tomales Bay is undoubtedly home to more seabirds than people, but that’s precisely the appeal for a San Francisco-based wildlife conservationist and outdoor enthusiast who decided to buy a second home there. Located up a hill on a private road set into the woods, the home is surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature with few neighbors. “It feels very remote, even though it’s probably only a ten-minute drive from Point Reyes Station,” says Kevin Sawyers, principal at Sawyers Design in San Francisco, who transformed the interiors of both the owner’s Inverness and San Francisco properties.

When the owner purchased the 2,800-square-foot, twobedroom, two-bath Inverness house, which also has a separate one-bedroom, one-bath cottage on the property, he found it to be in relatively good condition with a functional floor plan, yet the rooms were rather plain and devoid of character. “It was kind of like a blank canvas — all white with contractor-level finishes and floors throughout that looked a bit like polyurethane,” Sawyers says. “It needed more personality.”

Stepping into the Inverness house today, however, is quite a different experience. One might describe the aesthetic as “dapper,” but at the same time, it feels rustic, eclectic and altogether cheerful. Perhaps the first thing visitors might notice upon entering the home is the distinctive muted lime shade of the walls, reminiscent of new growth on the foliage outside, which seems to shift in tonality depending upon the light entering through the windows at different times of day. Indeed, all the walls in this house feature vibrant shades found in Inverness’s natural surroundings, Sawyers says. “We don’t do white walls at Sawyers Design,” he laughs.

Lately, Sawyers says he’s found inspiration in the design of the intensely colored rooms commonly found in traditional homes in 1800s England, seen in current TV shows like Gentleman Jack and Bridgerton, as well as colors seen around the world, like Japanese kimonos. “They’re all just so deliciously colored, with combinations that we don’t use as much here,” he says.

Throughout the Inverness home, a carefully curated selection of art, artifacts, furnishings and textiles complements the colorful backdrop of the walls. The entryway, for example, features a gallery of artwork Sawyers and his client picked out at Lost Art Salon in San Francisco, as well as the owner’s own collection of walking sticks and canes. Teal Design Public counter stools and a multicolor Louis Poulsen pendant add a modern touch to the kitchen, which otherwise needed little reworking, thankfully. A custom

wood table made by local craftsman Noah Elias is the centerpiece of the dining area, and in the living room, a reclaimed wood mantle from Black’s Farmwood now hangs above the resurfaced fireplace, while large doors open to an expansive deck.

Moving into the office, painted in a soft cantaloupe shade, a portrait of the owner’s mother and Palecek rope pendant wall sconces hang above a rattan daybed from Article, and a jute rug

2,800-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath remodel

ARCHITECT

Kevin Sawyers, Sawyers Design

adds texture underfoot. Bird-pattern wallpaper on the ceiling and a propeller-like chandelier draw the eye up and emphasize the room’s height while adding a lively, whimsical touch.

Meanwhile, the lilac-toned primary bedroom with earthy clay-colored accents and a four-poster bed evokes a sense of calm. Adding a playful touch, however, the lounge chair and ottoman are upholstered in three different patterned textiles. “It leans into British haberdashery, like if you wore a suit, tie and shirt with

different patterns that all go together,” Sawyers explains.

Despite the attention to detail Sawyers put into the design of each room, he says the home’s design and functionality is meant to reflect the casual, outdoor-friendly lifestyle of its owner. “It has so much more personality now,” he says. “He likes to open it up and let nature come in. I can just imagine seeing the sun coming in and him sitting on the floor playing with his dog.”

Left: Earthy clay-colored accents punctuate the lilac-toned primary bedroom;

Above: Soft cantaloupe-hued walls, a rattan daybed, rope pendent wall sconces and a jute rug imbue the oce with warmth, texture and color; Right: The entryway features a gallery of artwork from San Francisco’s Lost Art Salon.

PRESENTED BY THE SARKISSIAN BULLOCK TEAM

Bill

Lydia

Tiburon

$8,995,000 3900Paradise.com 8 BD | 5 BA | 1 Half-BA | 5,476± Sq. Ft.

Tiburon $11,900,000 BluffPointTiburon.com 14.5± Acres | Sandy Beach

Tiburon $950,000 TiburonGlenProject.com 23 Parcels | ±17,12 Acres

27UpperRd.com 8 BD | 8 BA | 1 Half-BA | 10,228± Sq. F.

Kentfield

249Hillside.com.com 6 BD | 7 BA | 1 Half-BA | 6,135± Sq. Ft.

Tiburon $4,850,000 3820ParadiseLot5.com Approved Plans | 7.42± Acres | Sandy Beach Architectural

TIBURON

BD | BA | HALF BA |

± SQ FT |

POOL | SANDY BEACH

PRESENTED BY THE SARKISSIAN BULLOCK TEAM

Bill Bullock

• bb@ggsir.com

• l.sarkissian@ggsir.com

• m.sarkissian@ggsir.com

Magda Sarkissian

Lydia Sarkissian

This extraordinary waterfront renovation stands as the pinnacle of luxury living, featuring an unparalleled design and designer finishes that seamlessly converge to redefine the essence of modern living. Positioned on Belvedere's western shore of the Tiburon Peninsula providing world-class views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Sausalito, the bay, and Mount Tamalpais.

The exceptional craftsmanship and architectural brilliance evident throughout the property elevate it to a league of its own, showcasing meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to superior quality. Significantly renovated in 2020, this waterfront retreat unfolds with a series of open and light-filled rooms, creating an ideal setting for both everyday living and grand-scale entertaining. Unrivaled amenities and effortlessly connected indoor/outdoor living spaces exude a refined coastal ambiance. This impressive residence is an entertainer’s dream, featuring two main-level entertainment decks, (2) docks, a new Golden Boat lift, a saltwater pool and spa, a gourmet outdoor kitchen, an expansive turf lawn, (2) outdoor TVs, (2) fire pits, and an outdoor bar with counter seating. The main level living spaces include a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen, a stylish living room, a dining room with French doors opening to the outdoors, a spacious recreation room, and a family room with floor-to-ceiling accordion doors opening up to the outdoors and enhancing the water connection. A beautiful staircase with a glass railing, Stark carpet, two Arteriors chandeliers, and custom woodwork wall paneling leads to the upper level, featuring a lavish primary suite, an ensuite bedroom, two additional bedrooms, and a full bathroom. This rare and highly sought after location is only one block to the Old Rail Trail waterfront pathway and minutes to downtown Tiburon’s Main Street with San Francisco and Angel Island ferry service, waterfront restaurants, and trendy shops.

Walls of glass encompass this newly constructed dream home, showcasing five ensuite bedrooms

scale living spaces with state-of-the-art finishes, elevating the residence to the pinnacle of modern luxury; an eye catching 40’

pool and spa highlight the outdoor living spaces. Carefully selected materials share a harmonious color palette both inside and out, creating an effortless connection between the indoors and outdoors; the exterior surfaces of the residence feature Portuguese limestone, and the interior includes a combination of Italian porcelain on the main level and white oak hardwood flooring throughout the upper level. Collaboratively designed by architects Miles Berger and Holscher Architecture; completed in September of 2023 by Peterson Construction and Development. The dramatic living room is an entertainer’s dream with floor to ceiling Weathershield sliding glass doors opening to an expansive entertainment terrace overlooking the stunning panoramas of the rolling hills of Ring Mountain and Mount Tamalpais. The phenomenal chef’s kitchen was designed to elevate the art of entertaining; a sleek aesthetic defined by clean lines, white custom cabinetry, Vadara White Aurora Quartz countertops, two 8’ center islands, dynamic wood accents, and high end stainless steel appliances. A large adjacent family room with floor to ceiling sliding glass doors opens to the ‘turf` lawn, outdoor shower, sparkling pool, and spa with stunning views of Mount Tamalpais and the rolling hills of Ring Mountain open space. A breathtaking floating staircase featuring sleek glass paneling gracefully ascends to the upper level of the residence, featuring a spacious media/family room, four ensuite bedrooms, a luxurious primary suite, and multiple view terraces.

LOOKING BACK

That Was Close

How Richardson Bay almost became a marina with 2,200 homes.

BY JIM WOOD

It started in 1949 when Belvedere businessman Benton Bostick and his Reedport Properties paid $42,000 to acquire 879 acres of land that were, literally, underwater. They were the Richardson Bay tidelands that stretched nearly two miles from the village of Strawberry to the city of Belvedere (at the time, Tiburon wasn’t incorporated). Then in 1956, according to local historian David Gotz, Utah Construction Company — then one of the world’s largest corporations — announced their intent to purchase Reedport’s tidelands for $600,000 and develop a marina with 2,200 homes (note rendering). As to where its homes would be built? Easy, Utah Construction would trim the top off nearby hills and use the soil to create dozens of lagoons. Thankfully, that never happened. Still, Reedport wanted to sell its vast tidelands. Enter Carolyn Livermore and the Marin Conservation League. By 1957, three events had taken place: 1. The state had said it wanted to widen two-lane Tiburon Boulevard into a four-lane highway from Highway 101 straight through Blackie’s

Pasture then along the shoreline to Belvedere and Tiburon. 2. Reedport had dropped the price of its tidelands to $200,000. And 3. Mrs. Livermore had raised $100,000 and obtained a $500 option to purchase the tidelands at its new price. Then, knowing opposition to the state’s highway widening plan would be greatly reduced if it owned the tidelands where its four-lane highway would border the bay, Mrs. Livermore, et al., offered to sell 41 shoreline acres to the state for $100,000. It would all be contingent on the group acquiring the entire bay’s tidelands for $200,000. In other words, they’d put the $100,000 from the sale together with the $100,000 they’d raised and become owners of what is now the Richardson Bay Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary. The story’s other happy ending was in 1964 when the town of Tiburon was incorporated and a first item of business was to stop the widening of Tiburon Boulevard at Trestle Glen Boulevard. And, with Blackie’s Pasture fully intact, that’s where it remains today.

PAUL JENKINS

L’Eau et la Couleur

Over more than seven decades, Paul Jenkins’ (1923-2012) paintings have been widely exhibited around the world. He has had seven major retrospectives at American and European museums. Jenkins is known for pouring paint onto canvas and creating veils of translucent and luminous color which have characterized his work since the 1950s. The paintings of Jenkins have come to represent the spirit, vitality, and invention of post World War II American abstraction.

Robert Green Fine Arts, established 1969, exhibits primarily painterly, abstract expressive work by painters that thoroughly take advantage of the sensually evocative nature of color and form.