ISSUE 31 | 2025
A R C H I T E C T U R E • D E S I G N • A R T • L I F E S T Y L E • R E A L E S TAT E C O A S TA L O R A N G E C O U N T Y
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F R A M I N G V I E W S , D I S S O LV I N G B O U N D A R I E S
CONTENTS 28
News
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Laguna Dance’s birthday bash
30 Room to Read Witte Hall opens at the Newport Beach Library
36 Jan Hilbert Left Her Mark
The life and legacy of a beloved art collector and museum benefactor
50 The Curator’s Take An interview with SCAPE’s Jeannie Denholm
52 Sanctuary Works Seamlessly
Collaboration, harmony, and timeless aesthetics in residential design
56 Cosmetic Revamp, Full Remodeling
Anthology Interiors emphasizes elegance and efficiency
60 Vitamin Sea Designer Laura Brophy’s ambitious Newport Beach vacation home project
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Luxe-Design
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Donna Johnson delivers what her firm’s name implies
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68 Lofty Redesign Pat and Ashley Patterson at work in Cannery Village
76 Tidelli’s Pentagramma Collection
Fusing art, design, and functionality
80 Modeling Visions Architectural designer Geoff Sumich reveals the unique methodology behind his full-scale creations 18
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CONTENTS
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90 Real Estate Gallery Exclusive OC real estate listings from Blue Door Magazine members
106 Jassel Kaye Has
Something to Say
Introducing a host of Blue Door Magazine’s new podcast series
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The Talk Lany Tucker’s takes on love, life, and self-empowerment
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114 Fashionably Fabulous
Balmain’s new iconic and evolutionary collection
124 Green & Gourmet Elegant vegan dining at PLANTA
132 All About Men The art of Gustave Caillebotte on exhibition at the Getty
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142 Paradise Beckons
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Tapping into Tahiti’s vibes
154 Affording Luxury, Providing Agility
SilverWest Partners offers strategic financing for OC home buyers
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Flow
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EDITORIAL editorial@bluedoormagazine.com ISSUE 31 | 2025
ART DIRECTOR Randi Karabin randi@bluedoormagazine.com
EDITOR Robin Keats robin@bluedoormagazine.com
MANAGING EDITOR Carolyn Grundman carolyn@bluedoormagazine.com
COPY EDITOR Carrie Lightner CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Hugo Landa Garcia CFO Jan Super A R C H I T E C T U R E • D E S I G N • A R T • L I F E S T Y L E • R E A L E S TAT E C O A S TA L O R A N G E C O U N T Y
This issue’s cover art, Suspended by Glenn Ness, says what all of us who put this edition together are thinking: Please jump right in (and take in all of the following pages)! The spirit of exuberance is so much a part of life in coastal Orange County, and this painting certainly exemplifies that. Ness creates photorealistic narratives that often feature California settings. He has said that the theme of his work is isolation without loneliness and proclaimed his love of light and a desire “to tell stories with images, to hold the viewer long enough to engage the intrinsic ideas they themselves brought to the narrative.” He certainly captured our attention and delightfully caught our eye. And, we hope, yours as well.
Sue Greenwood Fine Art Gallery 330 N Coast Highway Laguna Beach info@suegreenwoodfineart.com 949.494.0669
208.721.7926 jan@bluedoormagazine.com
FOUNDER Justin Williams 208.720.2142 justin@bluedoormagazine.com
FOUNDING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/ EDITOR EMERITUS Kedric Francis
Blue Door Magazine is published by Aspect Media LLC Copyright © 2025 Aspect Media LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by the authors and contributors to Blue Door Magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. PRINTED BY PUBLICATION PRINTERS
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Zack Bates and Justin Williams
SPRINGING FORWARD
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FROM THE FOUNDER
A New Season of Style and Influence As spring unfolds across coastal Orange County, there’s a shift in rhythm—marked by longer days, golden light, and the quiet momentum of a season in transition. At Blue Door Magazine, that same momentum is shaping our next chapter. We’re pleased to welcome Zack Bates as President & Managing Director of Partnerships, whose thoughtful leadership and experience in the luxury space will help guide our continued growth and evolution. Zack brings a thoughtful perspective shaped by years of working closely with private clubs, luxury brands, and real estate developers. His experience is rooted in building authentic relationships with high-net-worth individuals and delivering strategic and creative work. As we continue to grow the magazine’s presence—both in print and digitally—Zack will help guide how we collaborate with partners, tell stories, and reach our readers in more meaningful ways. This transition feels like a natural evolution—an opportunity to bring fresh thinking to a brand that has always valued substance over flash. We’re excited about what lies ahead and grateful for the chance to keep building something that resonates with our community. We’re also proud to present a special 10-page feature celebrating Balmain’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Each season, Blue Door Magazine curates an exclusive editorial showcase highlighting a standout luxury brand that exemplifies design excellence, cultural relevance, and timeless style. Balmain’s latest work, under the direction of Olivier Rousteing, felt like a perfect fit. The collection’s bold silhouettes, warm neutrals, deep reds, and sculptural detailing mirror the mood of our Southern California coast—sun-washed, sophisticated, and effortlessly modern. Each piece reflects the duality of strength and grace, echoing the lifestyle of our readers who move with intention but live with ease. Here’s to a season of style, fresh perspectives, and meaningful collaboration. Justin Williams Founder, Blue Door Magazine 208.720.2142 justin@bluedoormagazine.com PHOTO BY HUGO LANDO GARCIA
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NOTES FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK Like most (if not all) of you, I am glad to welcome spring and soon-to-be summer to coastal Orange County. I celebrate the changing of the seasons with a personal, seasonal ritual, particularly oriented to the vernal equinox. It involves the inspiration that warmer weather and longer days bring, inspiration that has prompted poets and composers to create works that invoke the spirit of a new season. When we marked the passage of winter into spring this year, I chose to walk a purposefully meandering course dotted with tidal pools teeming with starfish and anemones, crabs, and the occasional octopus through the beauty of Crystal Cove State Park’s beaches. These spectacular creatures were my silent audience on this solitary walk as I recited some seasonally inspired poems into the salty breeze. I also shared music that seasonal change played in prompting my favorite composers to come up with notes whose very sounds reflect the time of the year. So, what poems did I give voice to? What music did I play? I recited ee cummings’ In Just and Spring is like a perhaps hand to the accompaniment of surf gently lapping at the shoreline after a morning’s short rain. “in Justspring when the world is mudluscious ...”
and “spring is like a perhaps Hand in a window (carefully to and fro moving New and Old things, while people stare carefully moving a perhaps fraction of flower here placing an inch of air there) and without breaking anything.” (I urge you to look up and read these poems in full.) And music? So many splendid notes echoed through the sunny morning, such as those of Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring (a nod to my East Coast roots) and Beethoven’s Spring Sonata for Violin and Piano. And, not to be missed, the calendar-relevant sections of Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Blue Door Magazine focuses on art, architecture, design, and lifestyle. Art is at play in the composition of a poem, and architecture is evident in the construction of a musical composition—the arrangement of notes and the orchestration of the instruments that play them. And design? The ritual is of my own design—celebrating life as the world transforms from one season to another. After a tough (in so many ways) winter, change is just what we need. Robin Keats robin@bluedoormagazine.com
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EDITOR’S NOTE
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A LEGACY IN MOTION
Laguna Dance Celebrates 20th Anniversary Laguna Dance is set to soar into its next decade with its 20th Birthday Bash on May 3, 2025, at the iconic Lyon Air Museum in Santa Ana. Co-chaired by founding board members Nancy Meyer and Christine Rhoades, this milestone event marks a thrilling departure from tradition—taking the celebration outside Laguna Beach for the first time. From 5:00 to 9:00 PM, guests will experience an elegant evening of live music, dance performances, and artistic collaborations that capture the innovative spirit of Laguna Dance. Founder and Artistic Director Jodie Gates, a luminary with decades of experience, invites guests to “take flight with us on the journey for the next two decades,” emphasizing the organization’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and fostering world-class dance. Beyond the captivating performances, the Birthday Bash is a vital fundraiser supporting Laguna Dance’s educational initiatives. Proceeds will help award scholarships, support mentorship programs, and secure opportunities for up to 40 local and national artists in the upcoming season. With a rich legacy of presenting award-winning dance and a promise of continued growth, Laguna Dance’s Emerald Anniversary is poised to be one of Orange County’s most unforgettable celebrations. Laguna Dance 350 Forest Avenue #897 Laguna Beach 949.715.5578 info@lagunadancefestival.org lagunadancefestival.org 28
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PHOTO BY LEE GUMBS
NEWS
Dancer Jake Tribus
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CULTURAL EXTENSION Architect Bob Coffee’s Vision for Witte Hall by Justin Williams
Witte Hall is a new architectural landmark in Newport Beach’s Civic Center, along Avocado and next to the Central Library. Designed by architect Bob Coffee, this cultural center and community auditorium will be a focal point for community engagement. Known for his work on iconic Southern California buildings, Bob has created a space that fosters intellectual and artistic expression. Bob’s connection to the area runs deep. He has lived in Coastal Orange County since 1978 and remains dedicated to shaping the region’s architectural landscape. Though based elsewhere for various projects, Bob’s involvement with Witte Hall has remained unwavering. The cultural extension of the Newport Beach Public Library was an exciting challenge that aligned with his vision of connecting communities. The project, which began several years ago, is nearing completion. “We’re on track to finish by December 2025, with the grand opening slated for early 2026,” Bob explains. “We’ve completed most of the underground utility work—this was challenging due to the site’s proximity to existing utilities. The steel framework is up, and the roof will be completed by month’s end.”
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ARCHITECTURE
The undulating curtain wall provides views in and out of the lecture hall along Avocado Street.
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“The project is meant to enhance the library’s cultural outreach. Witte Hall will continue the lecture series and host film screenings, performances, and small dramatizations. It’s about creating a space for education and creativity.” —Bob Coffee, architect 32
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ARCHITECTURE
Witte Hall’s creation is about more than just another building—it’s about nurturing culture and creating a worthy public space for gatherings of local residents and businesses alike. The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation hosts numerous programs annually, bringing authors, scientists, musicians, and other presenters to the library frequently to sell-out crowds. The Foundation’s Witte Lecture Series has long been a community fixture, featuring thought leaders from various fields. As the Witte Series and other programs grew, the need for a larger venue with better sightlines and audio/visual capabilities became clear. The lecture hall has 292 fixed seats and 5 ADA wheelchair positions for a total of 297. Bill Witte and Keiko Sakamoto are the lead donors for the auditorium and have named it Witte Hall with their donation of $4 million. The Witte family has supported the library and brought great programming to the area’s residents for nearly 30 years. The family founded the highly regarded Witte Lecture Series to honor the late Martin Witte, father to Bill and Matt Witte. Martin’s recently deceased widow, Jene Witte, and Matt’s wife, Lizanne Witte, have been longtime stewards of the program. Matt Witte played a crucial role in the hall’s development, serving on the Library Lecture Hall Committee to help with the design. “The project is meant to enhance the library’s cultural outreach,” Bob says. “Witte Hall will continue the lecture series and host film screenings, performances, and small dramatizations. It’s about creating a space for education and creativity.” Beyond the Library and Foundation’s needs, Witte Hall will be available for local groups and businesses seeking a state-ofthe-art facility to host their events and programs.
The seashell shaped roof floats above the main lecture hall space.
The total cost is just under $24 million, covering site preparation, courtyard expansion, and parking reconfiguration. The City Council approved plans for the project and began construction in February 2024 on the condition that the Library Foundation make a significant financial commitment to the project. A public/private partnership was entered into that splits costs equally between the City of Newport Beach and the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. The Foundation, which must provide its share by January 2026, has raised over $11 million of its $12 million goal. The design of Witte Hall evolved through public and committee input and a review by the Irvine Company. Initially, Bob envisioned a curtain wall inspired by ocean foam, offering a translucent layer for intriguing glimpses inside. After BlueDoorMagazine.com
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The fan shaped space and stepped floor create an intimate relationship between the speaker and the audience.
feedback from the Irvine Company, he replaced it with vertical fins, improving shading while preserving dynamic appeal. “We had a more organic curtain wall, but the Irvine Company’s feedback led us to refine it,” Bob says. “The fins break light, provide shade, and still complement City Hall.” The project has been in the works for over a decade, following the opening of the new City Hall in 2013. The City Council-appointed Board of Library Trustees first proposed it. After several years of study, in 2019, under the leadership of then-mayor and current California Assemblywoman Diane Dixon, the City Council voted to appoint a five-person Library Lecture Hall Design Committee. That committee included Dixon, Janet Ray, Karen Clark, and Matt Witte and was chaired by Jill Johnson-Tucker. The committee interviewed eight architectural firms throughout the state before ultimately recommending Robert R. Coffee + Associates to the City Council. It worked with Bob Coffee and his team to refine the vision for the project. Design Committee Chair Jill Johnson-Tucker says of the process, “We had eight top architects interested in the project, but Bob truly understood what would work best on the site and fulfill the needs of the Library and the City. He has created a versatile design that will enhance the Library Foundation’s 34
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burgeoning programming needs and serve as a venue for numerous groups throughout the city, whether for lectures, musical performances, business gatherings/seminars, or small-scale dance and theatre. With the adjoining courtyard and the Friends’ Room, users of Witte Hall can host events that have pre- or post-receptions and even dinners, as well as to accommodate overflow crowds. It will serve as the cultural heart of Newport Beach and complete the Civic Center campus.” For Bob, Witte Hall is about leaving a cultural legacy. He wants it to be a place people return to, not just for events but because they enjoy being there. “It should be a cultural symbol for Newport Beach,” he says. “A place where the community engages with arts, ideas, and creativity.” The Design Committee’s ultimate goal is to create a flexible venue that adapts to the city, Library, and community’s needs over time, serving current and future generations. As construction nears completion, Bob’s excitement grows. “This project is about creating a legacy—a space that inspires future generations,” he shares. “A place for people to gather, learn, create, and be part of something greater.” Witte Hall promises to be a lasting architectural symbol, a vibrant cultural dialogue and a center for artistic expression. As it nears
ARCHITECTURE
The entry gallery along the curtain wall at the back of the lecture hall provides seating and standing space for an additional 75 people.
completion, the vision of a space alive with light and community engagement becomes ever more tangible.
LEAD DONORS
On a recent walk-through of the construction site, California Assemblywoman Diane Dixon shared her excitement, stating, “I have been a supporter of this project since my days on the Newport Beach City Council. In 2019, as mayor, I helped form the Design Committee and was pleased to serve as a committee member. The Committee hoped the design would be iconic, deserving of its place as the final key piece of the Civic Center campus. As it takes shape, I think we have exceeded our expectations, and I eagerly await the early 2026 opening of the beautiful Witte Hall to serve the people of Newport Beach and beyond.”
Lead donors to date include:
Still, funds are needed to complete the final $1 million of the Foundation’s obligation. This last stretch ensures that both public and private contributions are honored, and that Witte Hall remains on track for its scheduled opening. Meanwhile, community members and library patrons eagerly await the enhanced courtyard, improved parking configurations, and expanded cultural possibilities that Witte Hall promises. From film screenings to live discussions, the hall will serve as a gathering place for friends, families, and visitors from across Southern California. Every donation helps bring this transformative vision to fruition.
Janet and James “Walkie” Ray
Robert R. Coffee Robert R. Coffee Architect + Associates 183 McKellar Road Dripping Springs, TX 949.760.8668 robert@robertcoffeearchitects.com robertcoffeearchitects.com
William Witte and Keiko Sakamoto (Witte Hall) Roy Woolsey (Louise and Roy Woolsey Memorial Lobby) Elizabeth Stahr (Stahr Courtyard) Linda and Tod White Susan and Spencer Croul Ken and Stephanie Grody Kevin and Devon Martin Todd and Natalie Pickup Nancy and Geoffrey Stack Family Foundation Diane and Dave Steffy Jill Johnson-Tucker and Larry Tucker Clarence J. and Janice R. Turner
To donate or for information about remaining donor recognition opportunities, please contact Jill Johnson-Tucker, Chair of the Beyond Books Capital Campaign, at jill@johnsontucker. com, or Jerrold Kappel, CEO of the Library Foundation, at jkappel@nbplf.foundation. Or visit nbplf.foundation/witte-hall.
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ART DOYENNE OF OC
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FINE ART
Mary by the Sea, 1934 by Lee Blair (1911-1993) Oil on canvas 34” x 48 “
Celebrating Jan Hilbert’s remarkable legacy by Liz Goldner | All art from the Hilbert Collection
EDITOR’S NOTE: A frequent contributor to Blue Door Magazine, writer Liz Goldner was in the process of writing “Mark and Jan Hilbert: The Love Story that Launched an Art Museum,” when Janet passed away on December 7, 2024. Jan will be remembered for her acquisition of a spectacular collection of California art and her resolute spirit in working with her husband Mark to create the Hilbert Museum at Chapman University in Orange. Her life story encompasses their mutual love for California art, and their emphatic desire to contribute to their community by exhibiting the finest examples of this art. The book includes many stories about her, including her work with Mark to build an outstanding collection of California art and their efforts to co-create a world-class museum. Jan Hilbert also shared stories with Liz about the couple’s explorations of art museums and galleries in this country and abroad. Orange County and the art world in general have lost a sublime champion of creative visionaries whose visions, committed to canvas and on exhibit, serve to remind us of Jan Hilbert’s immense contributions to our cultural life. In tribute to her, we are publishing the following excerpts from Goldner’s upcoming book, which the Hilbert Museum will publish later this year. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Life of Riley, 1940’s by Emil Kosa Jr. (1903-1968) Oil on canvas
WHILE TEACHING STUDENTS ABOUT BUSINESS, JAN DISPLAYED EMPATHY FOR THEM AND A LOVE FOR ART
When she was a teacher at Redondo Union High School, Jan realized, “There is more to education than just the technical aspects.” She contacted the school’s art teacher, Cesar Hernandez, and purchased one of his scenic watercolors of San Francisco streets in the rain. She hung the painting in her apartment and “immediately enjoyed the artist’s interpretation of the beauty of California.” As she acquired additional watercolors by Hernandez, she refined her ability to appreciate fine art. While teaching at the high school, or at Santa Ana College, Jan demonstrated genuine care for her students, encouraging them to develop skills in order to succeed in the larger world. She became among the two schools’ favorite teachers. As co-founder of the Hilbert Museum, she employed her empathetic abilities to reach out to the museum staff and visitors.
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FINE ART
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JAN’S AND MARK’S BUDDING ROMANCE
In 1991, Jan was rollerblading on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California, when Mark drove by in his 1947 Packard. “My friend recognized him and waved him down, as he also had a Packard. There I was on a February morning, not expecting a new life to begin. But a bell went off and so did we. I was initially fascinated by Mark and by all of his interests. He loved any kind of art and design, and I quickly discovered that he was also a collector. It was a passion for him, and he would go to any lengths to gratify that passion.” As a couple who met in their forties in 1991, Mark and Jan came to embrace their relationship with each other, with their extended family and their many friends and colleagues throughout the California art world and beyond. They soon became missionaries for the California narrative art style, artwork that serves as a window into the state’s illustrious history.
I Could Hear Myself Breathe, 2017 by Bradley Hankey (b. 1979) Oil on wood panel 36” x 36”
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FINE ART
DURING THEIR MANY EUROPEAN TRIPS, MARK AND JAN EDUCATED THEMSELVES ABOUT ART
During the couple’s 25 trips to European museums and galleries, they perused the work of Old Masters, along with Impressionism and modern art. Jan and Mark regarded their many tours of European capitals, of visiting renowned museums and viewing classic architecture, as opportunities to expand their understanding of fine art. They were teaching themselves to more fully comprehend the unique aspects of the many paintings they collected. Jan explained, “I created a game that Mark and I played in the museum galleries. We asked each other what our favorite painting was in that room and why. While talking about why we each chose a particular painting, we were amazed at how often our choices were the same. The game enabled us to look closely at each painting, to study the colors, compositions, era, story, and how the space in each artwork is broken up.” BlueDoorMagazine.com
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If I had the Wings of an Angel, 1937 by Barse Miller (1904-1973) Oil on canvas
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FINE ART
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FINE ART The Barefoot Sixties, Enrico’s San Francisco, 1968 by Frank Ashley (1920-2007) Oil on canvas 49 x 52”
Touch-Up, 1943 by Burr Singer (1912-1992) Oil on board 22 1/2” x 16 1/2”
JAN’S LOVE OF PEOPLE INSPIRED THE COUPLE’S ACQUISITIONS OF NARRATIVE ART, KNOWN AS CALIFORNIA SCENE PAINTINGS
One day, Jan looked at their growing art collection and commented, “I’d like to see people in the paintings. They are more interesting that way, and they tell stories. Paintings with people are easier for visitors to look at and relate to.” The couple began purchasing more narrative-style artworks. After viewing many important European paintings over several years, Jan and Mark realized that their own oils and watercolors compared favorably to those pieces. Much of their original collection is exhibited today in the Hilbert Museum and in their home. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Poolside Panoramic, 2023 by Danny Heller (b. 1982) Oil on canvas
COLLECTING ART AND EXHIBITING IT IN THEIR MUSEUM
Mark and Jan didn’t just collect art; they shared it. They always shared it with the pronounced understanding that art is a universal language capable of bringing people together. Their remarkable generosity and vision have ensured that the Hilbert Museum will continue to inspire, educate, and entertain for generations to come. Mark and Jan often expressed appreciation for the joy of giving back to their community by providing a free-to-thepublic art venue, exhibiting narrative art that inspires viewers of all ages and backgrounds. They explained, “If we had known how great it feels to provide this museum and its idyllic art to the public, we would have opened it sooner.” 46
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FINE ART
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24 Carrots, 2018 by Scott Moore (b. 1949) Oil on linen
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FINE ART
HMCA at Chapman University with mosaic mural, Pleasures Along the Beach, 1969, by Millard Sheets.
ARCHITECTURAL RECOGNITION The Los Angeles Times recognized the Hilbert Museum’s 2024 expansion in the article, “The 8 Best New Architecture Projects in L.A. for 2024.” The article explains: “Instead of creating an extravagant new building, the firm Johnston Marklee highlights two beige stucco-clad, tilt-up concrete boxes, framing a new tiled concrete courtyard. The highlight of it all is the frontand-center installation of ‘Pleasures Along the Beach,’ a 40-by-16-foot mosaic by the great midcentury designer Millard Sheets. Depicting swirling, fiery-toned seagulls, beachgoers, ocean, and mountains, it was moved from the former Home Savings building in Santa Monica — effectively saving the treasure from oblivion.”
The Hilbert Museum of California Art at Chapman University 167 N. Atchison Street Orange, California 714.516.5880 hilbertmuseum.org
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ART IN MOTION
In conversation with Jeannie Denholm, the curator of SCAPE by Carolyn Grundman
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FINE ART
or solo exhibition. The goal is always to give the work the attention and platform it deserves. CG: After an artwork is displayed in the gallery,
how do you reconnect with it, and how do visitors help deepen your understanding? JD: The same energy that takes place in the studio
between me and the artist can take place in the gallery between me and the visiting clientele. It is a wonderful exchange, sharing what I know about the work vs. what each of us see and feel when we look at the work together. I learn from them. They learn from me. CG: After an artwork is sold, what does it mean
to you to know that it will continue its journey in a new collection? CG: What sparked your passion for art, and how did that
lead to your career in the art world? JD: My grandmother, a talented painter, was the first artist I met. Her influence on me was profound, and from a young age, I discovered the transformative power that art brings to a home. In college, my art history professor introduced me to the vast world of contemporary art, deepening my passion. The third pivotal moment was working with the Broad Art Foundation. Being around Eli Broad’s collection showed me how rewarding it is to permanently connect artists with audiences and place their works. CG: Can you describe the process of building a connection
with an artwork when you first see it in the artist’s studio? JD: The art world is all about relationships. What fuels me is the connection between the artist and their work. It’s a special privilege to have conversations with artists in the studios where their work takes form. CG: Once you connect with an artwork, how do you transition
it from the studio to the gallery? JD: I often discuss how best to present the work. Sometimes,
I have a specific client in mind; other times, we decide to display the work in a larger context, either in a group show
PHOTO BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
JD: I love thinking about an artwork’s journey beyond the gallery. Great art touches many lives. It might find its way into conversations, dinner parties, or even museums. Knowing I played a part in that journey gives my work real meaning. CG: How have your education and past work
shaped your current approach to the art world? JD: I’ve heard many people say, “I know what I like,”
but they like what they know. My education and past experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone, broadening my perspective. Exposure to new ideas, cultures, and viewpoints through art is life-enriching, and I strive to share that experience with others. As one client said, “Once you’ve been exposed to good art, you’ll never want to live without it.”
Jeannie Denholm Southern California Art Projects + Exhibitions SCAPE 2859 East Coast Highway Corona del Mar 949.723.3406 info@scapesite.com scapesite.com @scapegallery
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SANCTUARY Creative collaboration and design for the ages
For 20 years, Sanctuary Design Build has been redefining the meaning of home—one enduring sanctuary at a time. This family-owned and operated residential design-build firm in Newport Beach, led by designer Lauren O’Connor and contractor Josh Baker, has built a reputation for seamless collaboration, a timeless aesthetic, and meticulous craftsmanship. A clear-eyed approach to creativity, collaboration, and precision defines Lauren’s career in interior design. With an architecture background from USC, she quickly discovered that her passion lies in transforming interiors into thoughtfully designed sanctuaries— where function, beauty, and personal meaning come together beyond the constraints of a blueprint. “I realized that interior design was something I would truly love and could build a career around,” she recalls—a realization that set her on a path to craft well considered surroundings that lead to well lived lives. Central to Lauren’s vision is her business and life partner, Josh, whose expertise as the general contractor is integral to every project they undertake. Their partnership is built on the belief that “your home is your sanctuary.” For them, every project begins with an in-depth understanding of the client’s lifestyle. Lauren listens carefully, gathering insights from the sentimental value of family heirlooms to the subtle nuances of daily routines. Meanwhile, Josh ensures that every design detail is translated into reality with precision and quality 52
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Lauren and Josh treat clients like family and deliver homes where no detail is overlooked. They turn every design-build experience into something personal, joyful, and deeply meaningful.
PHOTO BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
DESIGN BUILD
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Custom cabinetry, elegant fixtures, and layered details make this family bar off the kitchen both beautiful and hardworking. Integrated refrigerator and freezer drawers, an ice maker, and a beverage center are seamlessly tucked behind tailored millwork.
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workmanship. “Our work is not about chasing trends —it is about creating enduring spaces and truly supporting our clients’ well-being,” Lauren explains. Keeping their team intentionally small allows them to dedicate their time fully to each project, ensuring a highly personalized, hands-on approach. “We are very accessible to our clients at all times. That can be rare for owners and not necessarily the dynamic at larger firms,” Lauren shares. With projects that span several years, their long-standing partnership of two decades eliminates the learning curve and ensures that every decision is informed by experience and instinct. At the project’s inception, they bring clients into the fold and learn as much about them as possible—their family, their pets, their hobbies, their entertaining style, how they cook, what they cook, and how they like to start and end their days. They don’t just design and build homes; they become their clients’ advisors and advocates, ensuring that every detail serves a purpose. “We genuinely care that they have a positive experience through design and construction, and that the years they spend in their homes following our time together are so, so special. We want to be invited back to hang out!” Their latest project, Eleven Oceancrest in Pelican Crest, exemplifies this high-touch, personalized approach. Designed for clients with refined tastes and a clear vision for their forever homes, the project is a high-end remodel that balances elegance with functionality. Lauren’s design sensibility paired seamlessly with Josh’s construction expertise, ensuring that every decision—from materials to finishes—was made with a focus on quality and practicality. The Eleven Oceancrest project is a testament to their combined skills, merging thoughtful design with robust construction to deliver a luxurious and livable home. At the heart of their philosophy is the understanding that a home should be more than just a space—it should be a welcoming and restorative retreat, a sanctuary that supports the way its occupants live, work, and unwind. Their design ethos is rooted in harmonizing beauty and function, ensuring that no detail is purely aesthetic without a purpose. This philosophy is evident in Eleven Oceancrest, where they have seamlessly blended stunning natural materials, custom finishes, and intelligent layouts to create an environment that soothes and energizes everyday life. Lauren and Josh also understand the emotional and mental toll construction can take on homeowners. “Endeavoring in a
A steam shower wrapped in leathered quartzite creates a calming, tactile retreat elevated by unlacquered brass fixtures.
construction project in your home or building a new home from the ground up can be taxing in many ways—and not just financially. Making decisions and concessions can wear on the decision-makers,” Lauren acknowledges. As a couple that works together daily and makes tough decisions themselves, they recognize their clients’ challenges. “We counter that with calm and confidence. We make it our job to bring relief (and hopefully deep meaning and joy!) to the process.” That close, familial energy extends to their construction team as well. “Many of our guys, we’ve known for years and years,” Josh adds. Their projects are built on trust, experience, and a shared enthusiasm for the craft. “We get excited to work together, to take on another challenge, and to celebrate the accomplishment of creating beautiful homes that mean everything to the people who live in them.” Their measured, client-focused process and dedication to quality ensure that every project becomes a personal sanctuary—a space where design meets functionality, and every detail matters. Through projects like Eleven Oceancrest, they continue redefining the meaning of home—crafting spaces that inspire and enrich daily life. Sanctuary Design Build 949.554.4639 sanctuarysocal.com BlueDoorMagazine.com
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PHOTOS BY SARAH PELICHOWSKI
INTERIOR DESIGN
EMPHASIZING FUNCTION OVER FORM Anthology Interiors’ Anna-Marie Claassen tells stories with design
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Anna-Marie Claassen, founder and chief designer of Anthology Interiors of Newport Beach, creates harmonious home interiors that are mostly modern in style. These designs range from a cosmetic revamp for a room, to a full home remodel, to collaborating with the client, architect, and builder as the home is being built. “I love to work on new homes,” she says, “as the planning and building is very extensive and there are many decisions to make, including plumbing, the cabinet designs, and the lighting.” Claassen confidently explains, “We excel at smoothing out the design, furniture sourcing, and construction process, planning according to schedule and working well with the vendors and subcontractors. We also emphasize function over form, ensuring the home fits perfectly for the client.” Claassen has been enamored with home design since receiving her first dollhouse at age nine. Yet she didn’t start her own design firm until she had been out of college for several years and had worked in 58
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public relations. “I learned a lot about client services in public relations,” she explains, “about putting the client first, which is a big focus of how we work with clients at Anthology Interiors.” Claassen met her husband, Brian, while attending Vanderbilt University in Nashville. They settled in Southern California after college and then moved to Indiana in 2004, as her husband attended law school there. While living there, she received her degree in Interior Design. “I learned about color theory, floor planning, how to put a room together, the basics of construction, electrical systems, plumbing elements, code requirements, and how to draw complete house plans using AutoCAD and Sketchup.” When the Claassens returned to Orange County in 2007, she worked for five years with established designers in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. When she started her own design firm in 2012, she named it Anthology Interiors because, “An PHOTOS BY JOSH BUSTOS
INTERIOR DESIGN Anthology is a collection of stories, poems, or writings, just as your home tells your story through a collection of your own tasks, discoveries, and memories.” She worked alone for a few years, hiring two designers in 2015 to assist her. “We are a very small team and very client-centric,” she explains. Several years ago, Anna-Marie Claassen and her family moved into a mid-20th-century modern home that she remodeled. “I wanted clean and modern. I was one of my hardest clients. But I love my home and where we live. My husband, two teenagers, and I could live there for the rest of our lives.”
Anna-Marie Claassen Anthology Interiors 948.375.1751 anthologyinteriors.com @anthologyinteriors
For Newport Beach clients who love to cook, the Anthology Interiors team designed a chef-ready kitchen with a gas wok burner, induction cooktop, and built-in cutting board. Every cabinet and drawer was planned for perfect placement of pans and utensils. Builder: MCM Construction
For Corona del Mar clients with an artistic MidCentury Modern new build, Anna-Marie selected the lilac Victoria and Albert bathtub to coordinate with the natural Fusion granite walls. Builder: Corbin Reeves Construction Architect: Geoff Sumich BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Expansive ocean views and organic materials blur the line between indoor and outdoor living in this beachfront retreat designed by Laura Brophy Interiors.
CHANNELING CHANEL Laura Brophy’s Vitamin Sea
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When interior designer Laura Brophy was invited to design a magnificent Newport Beach vacation home, a complete remodeling job, she searched for a name that would reflect what she envisioned. As if channeling the legendary Coco Chanel (who said, “An interior is the natural projection of the soul”), Brophy titled her project Vitamin Sea. “Vitamin,” she explains, “refers to the home’s organic nature, cabinetry, flooring, large windows and decks overlooking the sand and sea, and comfortable furnishings. “Sea” indicates the home’s expansive ocean views. In Brophy’s vision, soul is a key factor to consider when selecting textures, colors, materials, and other intrinsic elements. Vitamin Sea, she points out, is a home designed for soulful living. Brophy needed to execute a design intended to provide a family with four children with what would best help them thrive: space, an environment conducive to their growing needs, and furnished simply for ease of living and care. Encompassing 3,500 square feet, and with its natural materials and warm colors (especially oatmeal and seafoam tones), Brophy adeptly accomplished just that. The family also loves entertaining and desired a home that friends and relatives would enjoy visiting. “It’s warm and inviting,” Brophy says. “You walk in, take a deep breath, and relax.” The Newport Beach vacation home was designed by Brion Jeannette Architecture, a firm with which Brophy has collaborated for years. The company is known for its energy efficiency and for using wind, sunlight, and shade as essential elements of a home, all of which dovetail with Brophy’s design aesthetic. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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The rooftop deck with a spa, outdoor kitchen, and outdoor dining area provides the ultimate perch for sunset gatherings with family and friends.
Crafted with intention, the home supports the evolving needs of a vibrant family of six who enjoy entertaining friends and family in their beachfront retreat.
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The team of Brophy, the family, the architecture firm, and the Tony Valentine Construction company agreed that the magnificent ocean view would be the focus of the four-bedroom, three-level home. The gray-toned flagstone floors in the downstairs living area are natural and organic, open to the water. The kitchen cabinets are finished with muted colors and white oak. The sofas and chairs, many looking out toward the ocean, are in muted colors with soft fabrics and are enhanced by many cushions. Potted plants throughout add color and a touch of nature. An elegant semicircular staircase with wrought iron railing leads from the living area to the second bedroom level, which has white oak wooden floors. Soft bed coverings, headboards, cushions, and area rugs, many in neutral colors, and artwork on the walls that complement the furnishings create inviting and relaxing sleeping areas.
Window treatments on both levels are primarily motorized solar shades, providing expansive ocean views and protection for the furnishings when closed. The lighting from table and floor lamps with warm-toned bulbs adds to the home’s relaxed atmosphere. The third level, “a gorgeous rooftop deck,” Brophy says, has an outdoor kitchen, dining area, and hot water spa, all overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect place to end a beautiful Southern California day. Laura Brophy Interiors 1537 Monrovia Avenue Newport Beach 949.614.0101 hello@brophyinteriors.com brophyinteriors.com
Brophy Market 1727 Superior Avenue Costa Mesa 949.614.0101 brophyinteriors.com BlueDoorMagazine.com
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DONNA JOHNSON’S
SIX-STEP PLANNING 64
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Luxe-Design’s meticulous process for client engagement in home design Donna Johnson’s Luxe-Design is a prestigious design firm in Orange County and Las Vegas. It works primarily with entertainment and sports A-listers and Fortune 500 executives. Because her clients desire involvement with the numerous details of the design process, Luxe-Design employs a six-step method to help them achieve their dream homes. This comprehensive process results in home designs that satisfy the client’s comfort, functionality, and refined luxury needs.
The heart of Dolphin Terrace — this great room balances coastal charm with contemporary luxury, where natural light and layered textures create an inviting, elevated space.
Donna, founder of Luxe-Design, began working for her father, a developer, at age 12. She pursued design through her teenage years and eventually studied it at the University of California, Los Angeles. At her first job, working for a developer in Palm Desert, she designed the interiors of his many model homes, selecting furnishings, draperies, and fabrics while working with various vendors. She also learned to create designs on the computer and about the home construction process. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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With this invaluable experience, Johnson opened her own design firm three decades ago and today works with three designers, an architect, and a draftsman. Because her luxury-styled homes are so in demand, she designs residences nationwide and in exotic locales, including Costa Rica, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta. She has created a dream career and life for herself by creating dream homes. The first phase in Luxe-Design’s process is client consultation. In this step, the design team explores the client’s specific goals for the home design or remodel, style preferences, lifestyle needs, and functional requirements. With this information as a foundation, Luxe-Design proceeds to its floorplan analysis; an 66
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examination, evaluation, and understanding of the physical space to be designed and refurbished. Important information in this process includes lighting, views, acoustics, privacy, and the existing structure. The next step, design development, explores the dimensions and layout of the space, specifically the interior architecture of the space, whether it is one room or an entire home. With this information, Luxe-Design plans where the furnishings, design details, and art pieces will be placed. The following step is furniture and material selection, including flooring, wall coverings, decorative accents, and furnishings. Contemporary art selection, much of it
INTERIOR DESIGN
Left: Every curve and line in this custom sectional was thoughtfully designed to enhance the flow of the great room. A perfect balance of aesthetics and practicality, built to complement the space’s modern coastal elegance. Below: The blueprint of intention—this rendering reveals the guiding inspiration behind the great room at Dolphin Terrace, capturing the essence of the space before it came to life.
from Markowicz Fine Art in Laguna Niguel, is also an important aspect of this process. Renderings and walk-throughs are the most exciting steps in the design process. They present a visual representation of the space’s appearance when completed. By presenting the general layout, materials, colors, and lighting, the client can visualize the completed design and decide what changes are desired. Luxe-Design 2700 East Coast Highway Corona Del Mar 949.697.5869 luxury-designer.com BlueDoorMagazine.com
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High ceilings and open concept style define the updated Cannery Village loft.
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ART, DESIGN, AND INNOVATION
Entrepreneurial couple brings new life to Cannery Village loft The Cannery Village is quickly becoming one of Newport Beach’s most desirable residential destinations as the demand to live (and work) in a more beach-urban environment increases. The area’s proximity to popular restaurants, established shopping centers, new art galleries, Newport Bay, and the beach make this location highly-sought-after. The Cannery Lofts were originally designed by renowned architect David Hecht with Tannerhecht Architecture in 2004. Each loft offers a ground-level commercial unit beneath a level of residential space, seamlessly blending work and home life. Local entrepreneurs Pat and Ashley Patterson knew the unique mixeduse lofts would be an ideal move from Lido Isle to match their lifestyle as working professionals. The couple completely reimagined the industrial-style loft to bring fresh personality into the space. Their professional background played an integral part in the redesign. Pat founded the award-winning real estate company Sailhouse, providing development, design, management, and brokerage services for residential and commercial projects. Ashley founded a boutique public relations and marketing firm, The ACE Agency (ACE), emphasizing California’s arts, culture, hospitality, and tourism industries. Joining their two areas of expertise, the redevelopment focused on high-design and contemporary art installations redefining the narrative of the industrial spaces. Sailhouse’s redesign of Pat and Ashley’s 2,500-square-foot space draws inspiration from the original vision of the lofts while giving the space a second life, focused on creative design. A highlight of the loft design is the couple’s contemporary art collection that rotates between their offices PHOTOS BY JERI KOEGEL
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Local entrepreneurs Pat and Ashley Patterson reimagined the loft with focus on their contemporary art collection.
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Primary bedroom features artwork by Ray Turner and Tad Beck.
“Incorporating our lifestyles and interests, including our art collection, into the space was pertinent in the redesign. We strategically placed key artwork to draw attention to specific areas of the loft and complement the design elements.” —Pat Patterson, founder of Sailhouse
and homes in Palm Desert and Newport Beach. The collection highlights notable artists including Lita Albuquerque, Tad Beck, Michael Eastman, and Ed Moses, and Southern California natives Scot Heywood, Andy Moses, Chris Trueman, and Ray Turner, as well as local Orange County artists Jon Ng and Jeff Peters. “Incorporating our lifestyles and interests, including our art collection, into the space was pertinent in the redesign. We strategically placed key artwork to draw attention to specific areas of the loft and complement the design elements,” says Pat Patterson, founder of Sailhouse. “Keeping the structure of the space allowed our team to seamlessly blend the home’s character with contemporary design elements for a more elevated, modern California feel.” The original design of the lofts incorporated spacious outdoor decks, strategically positioned skylights, and abundant windows, offering an indoor/outdoor living experience and an open concept and style to the vertical homes. In the living room, the
20-foot-high ceilings offer an airy and dramatic feeling, showcasing the quality of light in the space. Pat and Ashley collaborated with Cathy Morehead + Associates to redesign the area and create a welcoming space for entertainment and relaxation, complete with a theater-sized seven-foot screen housed in a custom media cabinet and a vibrant large-scale painting by Chris Trueman. Adjacent to the living room, the kitchen and dining area space was maximized to provide a large, open feel. The reimagined design features a large 13-foot-long island made of Bianco Lasa Vena Oro from Walker Zanger complete with Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer drawers and smart-home technology. The lofty high ceiling in the dining room offers space for entertainment, maximizing many functions in an intimate space. The primary bedroom’s design is deliberately created to place focus on a painting by Ray Turner. A custom Morroed closet system from Lazzoni addresses a key missing element from the lofts’ original construction. Custom storage solutions were also integrated into home office spaces to provide enough functional space for everyday living. As a custom luxury home builder, Sailhouse continues to bring homeowners’ visions to life, including within their homes, evident in the innovative redesign of the Cannery Lofts. Sailhouse 170 Newport Center Drive Newport Beach 949.281.6044 sailhouse.com BlueDoorMagazine.com
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MARC PRIDMORE INTERIORS “The new showroom has four sections: modern, transitional, a fresh take on European traditional, and a boutique featuring decorative accessories, bedding, lighting, and more. It is a reflection of my passion for quality and timeless design. Design should be like a tuxedo—always in style, never outdated.” —Marc Pridmore
Marc Pridmore Interiors 3128 Red Hill Avenue Costa Mesa 888.334.0538 marcpridmoreinteriors.com
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PHOTO BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
MEMBER FEATURE
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SENSO — THE FLOOR YOU DON’T NOTICE, UNTIL YOU DO
Born in Amsterdam. Built to move with you
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PHOTO BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
MEMBER FEATURE
Founder David Bols didn’t set out to start a flooring company. He set out to create space. Space for people to move, to feel, to live. What began in a small studio in Amsterdam has become a global design brand trusted by architects, designers, and names like DKNY, Alexander McQueen, and SKIMS. SENSO floors are poured in place, made from plant-based resins, and designed to move with you. No seams. No echo. No aesthetic interference. Only presence.
SENSO 8553 Washington Boulevard Culver City 213.301.0566 senso.com
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Francesco Maccapani Missoni’s latest creation, the Pentagramma Collection for Tidelli, is a remarkable translation of his fashion-forward lineage into sculptural forms that speak the language of color, craft, and pattern. 76
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TIDELLI’S PENTAGRAMMA COLLECTION
Tidelli Quechua Chair in one of the 12 exclusive patterns.
Celebrating the Harmony of Art and Design Blending the visionary artistry of Francesco Maccapani Missoni with the craftsmanship of Tidelli, the Pentagramma Collection represents a groundbreaking collaboration in the world of outdoor furniture. Launched during the vibrant Art Basel at the Tidelli store in Miami, this collection has quickly become one of the most innovative and celebrated in the industry, embodying the fusion of art, design, and functionality. Inspired by the harmonious interaction of musical notes, the Pentagramma Collection captures how distinct elements come together to create something beautiful and cohesive. Each piece in the collection echoes the visual language of music, with intricate rope patterns and vibrant colors forming a seamless blend of form and function. Francesco Maccapani Missoni, renowned for his ability to convey deep emotional resonance through design, sees furniture as more than just functional objects—it is a canvas for storytelling. With roots in one of the world’s most iconic fashion families, Francesco’s work is deeply influenced by his heritage. As the son of Angela Missoni and Marco Maccapani, and grandson of the legendary Rosita and Ottavio Missoni, he brings a legacy of creativity and vision to every piece. His designs have captured the attention of the art and design world in cities like Milan, São Paulo, Florence, and Miami, and his recognition as Designer of the Year BlueDoorMagazine.com
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at BOOMSPDESIGN 2023 only further cemented his status as a leading force in contemporary design. The Pentagramma Collection includes four iconic Tidelli pieces—the Quechua chair and armchair, the Oslo bench, and the Club Cube—each reimagined with over 20 rope colors and 12 exclusive patterns, offering 48 possible combinations. This customization gives homeowners and designers the ability to create personalized combinations, making each piece a unique expression of style and creativity. Whether a single piece or a blend of colors within one design, the Pentagramma Collection adds an artistic, dynamic touch to any space. Giancarlo Mandelli, managing partner of Tidelli, explains: “With the Pentagramma Collection, our goal is to enhance the customer experience, offering them not only a functional piece of furniture but an opportunity to bring Francesco’s artistic vision into their homes. It’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and design.” Today, the Pentagramma Collection stands as a testament to the seamless marriage of contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship. It represents
Elevated by Pentagramma’s exclusive patterns, Tidelli Oslo bench (right) and Club Cube (above) offer a sensory experience blending contemporary design, color, and material.
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This is one of the 48 possible combinations that can be formed from the Pentagramma Collection, proving how distinct elements can come together to create something beautiful and cohesive.
the perfect blend of art and function, creating pieces that are as much works of art as they are functional furniture. This collaboration between Francesco Maccapani Missoni and Tidelli continues to captivate, inspiring homeowners and designers alike. As the Pentagramma Collection continues to make its mark, it reminds us that great design transcends time and trends, offering a lasting connection between art, design, and culture. Tidelli Outdoor Living Orange County Showroom Crystal Cove Shopping Center 7876 East Coast Highway Newport Coast sales@tidelli.com 949.715.0604 Coachella Valley Showroom 73520 El Paseo, Suite A Palm Desert 442.227.4302 tidelli.com BlueDoorMagazine.com
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FROM MODEL TO MASTERPIECE
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When architectural design combines with model-making Geoff Sumich approaches architecture with the temperament of an artist. After consulting with a client, he sketches a proposed home design. Soon after, he goes into his “model-making room,” which contains the raw materials—wood, cardboard, and foam board—and the tools to mold, fashion, and glue those materials into 3-D models of the envisioned home. While designing with models, Sumich employs skills he learned growing up on his family’s orchard and vineyard in New Zealand. “As I had access to many tools, I started making models from age five,” he says. He developed those skills while growing up, building various models, including model airplanes. Later, attending architecture school in New Zealand, he often incorporated models into his designs. Today, nearly 40 years later, living and working in San Juan Capistrano, Sumich continues to employ model-making in his architectural practice that specializes in creating high-end, custom homes. “This unique design process allows me to explore shapes, forms, textures, and compositional harmonies that no other process or medium can,” he says. By creating five to BlueDoorMagazine.com
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“The models make the design easy for clients to understand, allowing them to participate in the design process.” —Geoff Sumich
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twenty models per project, he reduces the designs to their most elemental forms. When Sumich’s clients see his models, they are able to perceive what he intends their homes to look like clearly. “The models are so easy to understand,” he says, “that the clients can make informed decisions. They either like the designs or they don’t.” After clients approve of his models, he proceeds to the next step of designing the home, also in 3D, on his computer. It is fascinating to see his completed homes, as they become larger versions of his models. A recently completed Irvine Cove home is an example. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Geoff Sumich outside the Irving Cove Home he designed.
When Sumich arrived in Southern California, after leaving university Architecture school, most of his clients were interested in traditional designs, including Spanish Revival and English Tudor. Over the next several decades, he combined elements of those traditional designs with the minimalism of modernism, segueing to a style that he calls “romantic modernism.” His favored materials, including stone, wood, and steel, help create homes combining warmth and simplicity. He also uses his skills to create homes incorporating multiple styles to satisfy couples with diverging tastes and desires. And after the clients approve the home design, Sumich engages with every aspect of its construction—a creative and fulfilling architectural process for all involved. Geoff Sumich Design 31511 Camino Capistrano, Suite A San Juan Capistrano 949.412.8461 geoff@geoffsumichdesign.com geoffsumichdesign.com @geoffsumichdesign 88
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1231 DOLPHIN, CORONA DEL MAR OFFERED AT $21,995,000 4 BED | 7 BATH | 6,232 SQ FT HOME | 14,480 SQ FT LOT
Christie’s International Real Estate Southern California is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527644. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. If your property is currently listed for sale this is not a solicitation.
1120 WHITE SAILS, CORONA DEL MAR OFFERED AT $8,345,000 4 BED | 5.5 BATH | 4,000 SQ FT HOME | 10,140 SQFT LOT
310 MARIGOLD, CORONA DEL MAR OFFERED AT $5,995,000 3 BED | 2.5 BATH | 1,788 SQ FT HOME | 5,310 SQ FT LOT
516 BEGONIA, CORONA DEL MAR OFFERED AT $4,599,000 3 BED | 2.5 BATH | 2,157 SQ FT HOME
310 HAWTHORNE, LAGUNA BEACH OFFERED AT $3,995,000 1 BED | 1 BATH | 727 SQ FT HOME | 2,625 SQ FT LOT
701 POPPY, CORONA DEL MAR OFFERED AT $3,995,000 3 BED | 2.5 BATH | 1,810 SQ FT HOME | 3,526 SQ FT LOT
733 AVOCADO AVE #108, CORONA DEL MAR OFFERED AT $1,995,000 1 BED | 1 BATH | 890 SQ FT
CASEYLESHER.COM | CASEY@CASEYLESHER.COM | 949.702.7047 | DRE 01795953
COMMUNIT Y SPOTLIG HT
A B O V E I T A L L AT A S C AYA : B U I L D O R B U Y Y O U R D R E A M H O M E T O D AY At Virtue, we don’t just represent Ascaya—we understand it from the inside out. Our team is led by Drain Marques, a true Ascaya expert with over five years of experience as the community’s Sales Manager. His deep knowledge of the development, architectural guidelines, and available inventory gives our clients a distinct advantage—whether you’re buying your dream home or selecting the perfect lot to build one. Ascaya is more than a neighborhood—it’s a statement. From its iconic desert contemporary architecture to the thoughtfully designed clubhouse and lifestyle programming, every detail has been crafted to elevate your everyday. And with custom homesites starting from under a million and luxury estates already built and move-in ready, there’s something for every discerning buyer looking to build their legacy in the desert. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of a modern architectural masterpiece or the endless potential of a mountainside lot, our team is here to guide you through every step. With our on-the-ground knowledge and elevated service, we make it easy to envision—and realize—what’s possible in Ascaya. Let us help you discover your place at the top.
LOT 12 | 7 CHISEL CREST COURT
LOT 131 | 20 SANCTUARY PE AK COURT
L O T 1 2 6 | 1 5 C L O U D C H A S E R B LV D
L O T | 1 7 C L O U D C H A S E R B LV D
9 S T O N E C U T T E R C O U R T | $ 1 2 ,5 0 0,0 0 0
SUSAN MARQUES
DARIN C. MARQUES
Virtue Real Estate Group Darin Marques Group Founder & CMO LIC.# BS.0146408
Virtue Real Estate Group Darin Marques Group Broker/CEO LIC.# B.0145227
susan@virtuelre.com
darin@virtuelre.com
V I R T U E R E A L E S TAT E G R O U P | 1 0 1 0 0 W C h a r l e s t o n B l v d # 2 5 0 | L a s Ve g a s , N V 8 9 1 3 5
20 Balboa Coves, New Port Beach 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | OVER 5K ON THE WATER IN A GATED COMMUNITY WWW.20BALBOACOVES.COM Welcome to one of Newport Beach’s iconic waterfront properties! This brand-new home offers an incredible opportunity for beach and bay water enthusiasts, just a 5-minute bike ride to Lido Marina and the beach, with proximity to the Wedge. Designed by renowned architect Craig Hampton and built by RDM Contractors, the home features European white oak floors, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, luxury stone and tile finishes, and oak & T&G ceilings. MID Interior Design adds a cozy touch throughout. Situated on the water, the property is a 10-minute walk from the beach and Lido Marina, offering customizable smart features for easy living. In the gated Balboa Coves community, residents enjoy amenities like a dog park and kids’ playground. The home spans 3753 square feet of living space, with over 5000 square feet total, including a garage and decks, on a 3888 square foot lot. Inside, you’ll find 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and three-car parking. A private rooftop deck with a bonus bedroom and bathroom offers panoramic views. Direct bay access includes a private dock for a boat up to 35 feet. Don’t miss the chance to live the beach and bay lifestyle—make this new home yours today!
BRIAN LIBERTO
BRIAN.LIBERTO@THEAGENCYRE.COM 714.931.3287 SALES ASSOCIATE | LIC. #01473233 3426 E. COAST HIGHWAY | CORONA DEL MAR, CA 92625
THEAGENCYRE.COM
©2025 UMRO Realty Corp., dba The Agency®. No representation is made as to the accuracy of the information contained herein. All prospective buyers should investigate any information deemed important and/or consult with appropriate professionals. If your property is already listed with a real estate broker, kindly disregard. CalDRE #01904054
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13 Lagunita Drive, Laguna Beach Sweeping views of whitewater waves, dramatic cliffs and coastline unfold from nearly every room of this luxurious 4-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom residence set in guard-gated Lagunita. Designed for ultimate privacy, the residence features beach access via rare private stairs and an impressive 66 feet of ocean frontage. Recent renovations, a 1,000-bottle wine room, game room, bar and ADU are additional highlights.
5 Pelican Vista Dr, Newport Coast
301 Morning Star Ln, Newport Beach
14 Lagunita Drive, Laguna Beach
748 Harbor Island Dr, Newport Beach
2322 Pacific Drive, Corona del Mar
140 Crescent Bay Dr, Laguna Beach
212 Clear Falls, Irvine
1415 Coral Drive, Laguna Beach
2680 Victoria Drive, Laguna Beach
312 35th Street, Newport Beach
4347 Canyon View Ln, Palos Verdes Peninsula
33671 Flying Jib, Dana Point
W H O Y O U W O R K W I T H M AT T E R S ®
TIM TIMSMITH SMITH REALTOR REALTOR® ®
949.867.7050 949.867.7050 949.867.4994 tim@timsmithgroup.com tim@timsmithgroup.com timsmithrealestategroup.com timsmithrealestategroup.com CalRE#01346878 CalRE#01346878
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TIMSMITHREALESTATEGROUP.COM
#1 T E A M FOR COLDWELL BANKER IN CALIFORNIA*
*For large teams with 4+ members with Coldwell Banker, Realogy Brokerage Group. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. (27343381)
32091 Coast Highway | Laguna Beach Gated Oceanfront Estate | Offered at $16,995,000
427 Santa Ana Avenue | Newport Beach Newport Heights New Build | Offered at $7,998,000
*Co-listed with Nick Teslik | Pinnacle Estate Properties, DRE 02136922
830 Temple Hills Drive | Laguna Beach Sunset Views Over The Ocean | Offered at $4,795,000
360 Diamond Sreet | Laguna Beach Woods Cove Charmer | Offered at $4,595,000
1590 Via Corsica | Laguna Beach
1259 S. Coast Highway | Laguna Beach
Single Level and Ocean side of PCH | Offered at $4,475,000
Prime Mixed-Use Property | Offered at $3,995,000
M J G R O U P F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S
*Virtually Staged
501 Lombardy Lane | Laguna Beach
705 Iris Avenue | Corona del Mar Centrally Located Triplex | Offered at $3,375,000
Updated Charmer | Offered at $3,395,000
611 Lido Park Drive, Unit 3A | Newport Beach
247 Calliope | Laguna Beach
Bayfront Views | Offered at $3,295,000
Turn-key property - Heart of Laguna | Offered at $1,787,000
50 Corniche Drive, Unit E | Dana Point
31112 Monterey Street | Laguna Beach
Beautiful Ritz Pointe Condo | Offered at $895,000
For Lease | Fully Furnished | Offered at $10,950/month
Mike Johnson
Nick Hooper
DRE 01429647
DRE 01962012l
Paulo Prietto
Sylvia Ames
DRE 01878796
DRE 02021418
Kristine Flynn
Tara Bunker
DRE 02063127
DRE 01827846
Andrew Graff DRE 02024856 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. DRE 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal without notice.
949.207.3735 mikejohnsongroup.com
JONFLAGG.COM
CURRENT OFFERING 208 VIA PALERMO | LIDO ISLE 5 BED | 6 BATH | 4,651 SF | 5,104 SF LOT LISTED AT $7,995,000 Welcome to 208 Via Palermo—an elegant statement home in the heart of the prestigious Lido Isle community. Sited on an expansive 58-foot-wide lot, this remarkable residence blends timeless style with refined comfort and attention to every detail. Designed to impress and built for everyday living, the home offers 5 en-suite bedrooms—including one on the first level—5.5 luxurious baths, a dedicated office, and a fully equipped theatre room. The interiors are rich with character, featuring handdistressed walnut flooring, true Venetian plaster walls, and a curated mix of hand-selected stones, woods, and finishes. At the heart of the home is the chef’s kitchen, outfitted with top-tier Wolf appliances, a 6-burner stove with grill, Sub-Zero refrigeration, Miele coffee system, warming drawer, dual Shaw original sinks, and a generous walk-in pantry. Outside, multiple seating areas, a built-in stone fireplace, and BBQ create a private sanctuary for entertaining and unwinding under the coastal sky. Additional highlights include a 3-car garage and the unmatched lifestyle of Lido Isle—residents enjoy access to a private beach, yacht club, tennis courts, pickleball, water sports, vibrant social clubs, fine dining, local retail, and convenient freeway access. This exceptional property captures the essence of island living— sophisticated, relaxed, and undeniably stylish.
JON FLAGG Realtor® | DRE# 01316048 Luxury Property Specialist 949.533.7878 Jon@FlaggRealEstate.com @JonFlaggRealEstate
KYLE FLAGG Realtor® | DRE# 02095991 Luxury Property Specialist 949.514.5113 Kyle@FlaggRealEstate.com @KyleFlaggRealEstate
Each Office is independently owned & operated. DRE #01767484
CURRENT OFFERING 815 VIA LIDO SOUD | LIDO ISLE 5 BED | 6 BATH | 3,809 SF | 3,120 SF LOT LISTED AT $12,900,000
JON FLAGG
KYLE FLAGG
Realtor® | DRE# 01316048 Luxury Property Specialist 949.533.7878 Jon@FlaggRealEstate.com @JonFlaggRealEstate
Realtor® | DRE# 02095991 Luxury Property Specialist 949.514.5113 Kyle@FlaggRealEstate.com @KyleFlaggRealEstate
JONFLAGG.COM
ISSUE 31 OK WILL THERE BE ANOTHER/
CURRENT OFFERING 129 VIA WAZIERS | LIDO ISLE 3 BED | 4 BATH | 3,008 SF | 3,080 SF LOT LISTED AT $4,795,000
JONFLAGG.COM
Each Office is independently owned & operated. DRE #01767484
New Price | 20 Harbor Island
New Listing | 21 Harbor Island
NEWPORT BEACH | $59,000,000 6 Bed | 5 Bath | 2 Lots (Lots 20 & 21) | 100’ Frontage | 3,600 Sq Ft 20HarborIs.com
NEWPORT BEACH | $29,500,000 Lot 21 | 50’ Frontage | 8,863 Sq Ft Lot
32201 Coast Highway
501 W Edgewater
New Price | 163 Nyes Place
LAGUNA BEACH | $15,000,000 Rectangular 1.25-acre oceanfront property 110 Ft. wide from Coast Highway to the sandy beach
NEWPORT BEACH | $6,250,000 3 Bed | 4 Bath | 2,267 Sq Ft 501WEdgewater.com
LAGUNA BEACH | $5,450,000 4 Bed | 5 Bath | 3,466 Sq Ft 163Nyes.com
New Price | 57 Ocean Vista
35 Linda Isle
4519 Camden Road
NEWPORT BEACH | $2,995,000 3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 2,791 Sq Ft 57OceanVista.com
NEWPORT BEACH | $42,000/MONTH 4 Bed | 5 Bath | 4,983 Sq Ft 35LindaIsle.com
CORONA DEL MAR | $22,500/MONTH 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,397 Sq Ft
Each office is independently owned and operated. DRE# 01767484
Steve High
Evan Corkett
949.874.4724 steve@highcorkett.com highcorkett.com @high_corkett DRE #00936421
949.285.1055 evan@highcorkett.com highcorkett.com @high_corkett DRE #00468496
PRICE REDUCED | 2410 NEWPORT BLVD, NEWPORT BEACH NOW OFFERED AT $13,995,000 (2) RESIDENTIAL SPACES + (2) COMMERCIAL SPACES + (2) DOCK SLIPS, 75’ AND 80’ 6,655 +/- SF LIVING SPACE | 9,583 SF LOT | 2410NEWPORTBLVD.COM
115 BAYSIDE PLACE | CORONA DEL MAR $4,749,000 | 3 BED | 3 BATH | 2,039 +/- SF RESIDENCE | SHARED DOCK/PIER 115BAYSIDEPL.COM
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TIM CARR 949.631.9999 | TIM@TIMCARRGROUP.COM TIMCARRGROUP.COM | DRE 01017277 FACEBOOK.COM/TIMCARRGROUP @TIMCARRGROUP
Each office is independently owned and operated. DRE #01767484
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EMPOWERED WOMEN
WOMEN, WEALTH AND WISDOM Introducing Jassel Kaye as she explores success, love and life on Blue Door Magazine’s podcast
by Justin Williams
Philanthropy is often seen as an act of generosity, but for Jassel Kaye, it is something much deeper—a way of life that intertwines community, leadership, and action. As a former finance executive turned strategic philanthropist and advocate, she has built a career bridging affluence and needs, uniting resources with purpose, and creating pathways for lasting change. In a time when leadership is being redefined, Jassel is helping to reshape what it means to lead with clarity, connection, and intention. Her work reflects a modern sensibility—one where influence elevates others and generosity is rooted in trust and empathy. As Chairwoman of Harvesters, member of the CASA of Orange County Board of Directors, and Co-Chair of CASA’s Celebration gala, Jassel is at the forefront of some of the area’s most impactful philanthropic efforts. Whether addressing food insecurity or advocating for foster youth, she brings a grounded commitment to service and a results-oriented mindset shaped by her financial background. Jassel is an authentic connector who understands that affluence and need often coexist in the same communities. She approaches philanthropy not as charity but as a relationship built on long-term collaboration, transparency, and shared goals. Her story is one of creating space for others to lead, inviting people into meaningful conversations, and supporting communities through collective action. With a passion for storytelling and deep community ties, she brings people together across sectors, helping them find their own roles in the bigger picture. As a guest contributor to Blue Door Magazine’s podcast series, Jassel introduces a group of inspiring and influential women shaping life in Coastal Orange County. These conversations highlight the intersection of leadership, philanthropy, and impact and spotlight women using their voices, platforms, and vision to lead change. PHOTOS BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
A JOURNEY ROOTED IN PURPOSE
Jassel’s commitment to service began long before she entered the world of finance and philanthropy. Raised in a family where giving was a way of life, she learned early on that community isn’t something you belong to—it’s something you build. Her move from New York City to Newport Beach deepened that understanding. In New York, the challenges of poverty and inequality were visible. In Orange County’s picturesque landscape, she realized that need often exists beneath the surface. “Everything looked perfect on the outside, but there were so many invisible struggles,” she recalls. That realization fueled her desire to connect communities, bridge resources, and create spaces where generosity makes a lasting impact. A CATALYST FOR CHANGE
Jassel’s work has led her to the front lines of some of Orange County’s most pressing social issues. A pivotal moment came when she attended a CASA Celebration event nearly a decade ago. Learning about the neglected and abandoned youth in the foster system “stopped me in my tracks,” she says. “Trauma isn’t just about what happened to you. It’s also about what didn’t happen for you.” That night, she knew she couldn’t look away—and she hasn’t. Since then, she has been instrumental in supporting organizations like CASA and Second Harvest Food Bank, the latter through her leadership with Harvesters, which raises critical funds to sustain its mission. She has served as a connector between philanthropists and the causes that need them most, helping to rally networks, build coalitions, and drive resources where they’re needed most.
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EMPOWERED WOMEN
BRINGING STORIES TO LIFE THROUGH BLUE DOOR MAGAZINE
“Storytelling is one of our most powerful tools,” she shares. “It connects us, inspires us, and reminds us that impact comes in many forms.”
For Jassel, fashion, and philanthropy often intersect. Through her work with Harvesters, they have collaborated with brands like Balmain, Mikimoto, and Khaite—not only for their design but for their values. “I’m drawn to brands that lead with purpose, generosity, and impact,” she explains. “I love their aesthetic, but I’m even more inspired by their commitment to empowering women and giving back.”
Through intimate conversations and insightful interviews, she will dive into the journeys of trailblazers in business, philanthropy, and the arts, sharing their lessons in leadership, resilience, and giving back.
To her, investing in fashion is also about investing in something bigger—a cycle of giving that extends beyond trends and reflects her values.
LEADERSHIP WITH A LASTING IMPACT
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
With a background in finance, philanthropy, and advocacy, Jassel understands that real change isn’t about a single act of generosity—it’s about sustained, strategic action. Through her work with Operation HOPE and UCI’s Paul Merage School of Business, she has seen how financial education can transform lives, especially in underserved communities.
Looking ahead, Jassel envisions a more connected, engaged, and purpose-driven Orange County—one where philanthropy isn’t just an occasional act but a way of living.
With Blue Door Magazine, Jassel is expanding her impact by telling stories that inspire action. As a guest host of the magazine’s podcast series on successful women in Coastal Orange County, she will highlight the region’s leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.
“Financial literacy isn’t just about money—it’s about dignity, security, and opportunity,” she says. As this year’s Chair of Harvesters, Jassel is at the helm of a powerhouse group of women raising critical funds to support Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, which now serves over 442,000 people each month. “What makes it work is collaboration,” she explains. “We have 50 incredible women leveraging their networks, corporate partners like South Coast Plaza stepping up, and donors committed to longterm solutions. That’s what real impact looks like—it’s layered and shared.” Jassel’s leadership is rooted in creating space—for others to step forward, contribute, and lead. She focuses on aligning values, building trust, and designing frameworks that support long-term growth and inclusion. STYLE AS EXPRESSION AND ACTION
Jassel believes that style is more than what you wear—how you show up in the world. “Style is personal, but it’s also powerful,” she says. “It’s a form of expression. It can tell a story about who you are and what you stand for before you even say a word.” Her unique blend of business acumen, social consciousness, and personal style makes her a formidable voice in both finance and philanthropy. From advising major donors on strategic giving to inspiring others to take small but meaningful steps toward impact, Jassel is bridging influence and action in a fresh, relevant, and deeply personal way.
“I see a future where giving back isn’t reserved for a select few—it becomes part of how we all live, work, and connect,” she says. Her focus is on accessibility: creating opportunities for people to get involved in ways that feel meaningful, manageable, and aligned with their lives. “Sometimes people think their contribution isn’t big enough to matter,” she says. “But it all matters. It all adds up.” Her goal is to continue building bridges—between people, causes, and communities—and to help others see that they, too, have something valuable to offer. USING HER VOICE
For years, Jassel worked quietly, connecting donors, mentoring women, and serving behind the scenes. But she realized that staying silent wasn’t helping the causes she cared about. “If people don’t know the need exists, how can they help?” she says. Today, she uses her voice to amplify missions and invite others in. Through Blue Door Magazine’s podcast and editorial features, she hopes to highlight the changemakers shaping that future, inviting others to step into their own power and discover their roles in making a difference. “Impact isn’t measured by size—it’s measured by intention,” Jassel says. “If I can inspire someone to take one step toward giving back, I’ve done my job.” Now, as she embarks on this new chapter with Blue Door Magazine, Jassel Kaye will bring stories of leadership, generosity, and transformation to life—one conversation at a time. Read her exclusive interview with Laney Tucker on the following page of the magazine. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Pictured from left to right Jassel Kaye and Laney Tucker 110
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EMPOWERED WOMEN
THE TALK
A one-on-one dialogue with the women shaping Coastal Orange County—beginning with an intimate conversation between Jassel Kaye and Laney Tucker.
EDITOR’S NOTE This issue debuts a new podcast series hosted by Jassel Kaye, celebrating the lives and voices of successful women shaping the spirit of Coastal Orange County. Kaye, a University of Southern California graduate and a former managing director at Corporate Finance Associates, is active in several local philanthropic causes. She is on CASA’s (Court Appointed Special Advocates of OC) Board of Directors. Engaging in candid, thoughtful conversations, she explores the personal and professional journeys of women making an impact. Initiating the series is Kaye’s discussion with Laney Tucker, a lawyer, traveler, and digital creator. They reflect on self-discovery, self-love, finding balance in life, relationships, self-expression, and more. Tucker, who graduated from Emory University and got her law degree from the University of Virginia, was formerly the Vice President & Senior Counsel of Retail Properties at The Irvine Company. She also serves as a member of Harvesters (which supports the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County). Tucker also serves on the Board of Directors of Sage Hill School. Like Kaye, she lends her talents and expertise to a number of vital community-oriented initiatives.
PHOTOS BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
JK: I’m Jassel Kaye, and I’m thrilled to be here for this special feature
with Blue Door Magazine. Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with someone whose journey is as inspiring as it is unique. Laney Tucker is a lawyer, traveler, and digital creator whose honest take on self-love, relationships, and life transitions has resonated with so many people. Laney and I first met through our shared work with Harvesters, an incredible organization supporting Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, and I’ve admired her authenticity and passion for living life on her own terms ever since. Laney, it’s so great to have you here—thank you for joining me! LT: Thanks so much, Jassel. It’s an honor to be here with you and Blue Door Magazine today.
GROWING UP & DISCOVERING THE WORLD JK: Let’s dive right in. We’re here in this beautiful setting—your
childhood home—where I’m sure so many of your formative memories were made. How do you think growing up in Newport Beach shaped your sense of self and your desire to explore the world? LT: My parents have always loved travel and art, as you can tell by
the English countryside-inspired architecture of the house and all the collector’s items they brought back from flea markets in England and France. We traveled a lot when I was young, and we even lived in San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca, Mexico, during summers so my brother and I could learn Spanish. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Those early experiences sparked my curiosity and made me want to keep exploring. Even now, I travel every chance I get—but at the same time, there’s no place like home. I’m pretty lucky that home happens to be Newport Beach. JK: That’s such a beautiful story. It’s amazing how travel was such an
important part of your upbringing—it’s no wonder it became such a big part of your life. What inspired you to leave Newport Beach and not just travel the world but also live abroad?
raw and real every day for 75 days—I called it the “75 Raw Challenge.” Since I was single and traveling, my content naturally focused on dating and self-growth. I had so much fun with it that I kept going! Now, I post daily on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok—sharing my real experiences in love, travel, and life. My hope is that by being vulnerable and authentic, I can inspire others to live in their truths, too. NAVIGATING HEARTBREAK & DATING AGAIN
LT: I have Sage Hill School and my parents to thank for that. Sage
JK: It’s incredible how being vulnerable can lead to such growth.
really pushed us to explore beyond our comfort zones, so I chose Emory in Atlanta for college—just to try something different. During high school, college, and law school at the University of Virginia, I had opportunities to study and live in Spain, mostly in Madrid. I took a gap year between college and law school to teach English in Madrid, and that was one of the most formative experiences of my life.
And I can imagine it’s not always easy, especially with the criticism that can come from being in the public eye. Speaking of vulnerability, you’ve been open about heartbreak. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken away from that experience?
LESSONS FROM SPAIN & FINDING BALANCE JK: Madrid—what an incredible city to immerse yourself in! How did your time in Spain shape your perspective once you came back to the U.S.? LT: It completely changed the way I look at how to live life well.
Spanish culture embraces slowing down, taking time to enjoy life, meals, and relationships. As Americans, we’re so used to the hustle and grind, and for me, that creates anxiety. Spain taught me to embrace a more relaxed approach—and that’s something I still carry with me. Also—the fashion! I’ve always loved fashion, but European style is just so elevated and timeless. Shopping in local European boutiques became one of my favorite parts of living there! FASHION AS SELF-EXPRESSION JK: I love that you brought a piece of Spanish culture back with you! And the fashion—I knew we’d get to that! You’re one of the most fashionable women I know. Tell me about your outfit today—what inspired your look? LT: That’s so nice of you! And you’re one to talk—your style is always
on point! For me, I try to invest in timeless pieces that I know I’ll wear often. Today, I’m wearing a green Acler dress—I loved the color and silhouette because it’s flattering and versatile. My jewelry is by Mejuri, Cartier, and Hermès, and my shoes are Dior. SOCIAL MEDIA & SHARING AUTHENTICALLY JK: Your social media presence is so authentic and vibrant, and yet—
many people might be surprised that you’re also a lawyer! What inspired you to start sharing your life so openly online? LT: I actually started posting as a way to overcome being a peoplepleaser. During my trip to Bali, I challenged myself to post something 112
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LT: Going through heartbreak breaks you apart like nothing else in this world, in my opinion. If not for my heartbreak in 2023, I don’t think I would have had the courage to start putting myself out there online the way I am now. When you go through a massive life transition like that where everything is seemingly falling apart, it allows you the space to do an audit of your life and allow you to focus on who you really are and what you want to create in this world. So, for me, I was able to transmute the pain of that heartbreak into art. I put together a Breakup Survival Journal exercise that’s free on my website (laneytucker.co), and I’m now coaching clients on how to heal their heartbreaks and uplevel their relationships and their lives. I’m also creating a course on healing heartbreak and will be hosting workshops covering various topics within the romantic love and self-love spaces. My hope is to be able to share with others what worked and what didn’t as I navigated heartbreak myself, and to empower them to really find themselves and lean into radical self-love when going through a difficult transition. JK: I agree, heartbreak really does tear you apart like nothing else
and it truly can be one of life’s greatest teachers, as painful as it is. I love that you’ve created tools like the Breakup Survival Journal to help others navigate it. I wish I had resources like you when I faced breakups. How has your experience with heartbreak shaped the way you approach dating now? LT: I practice what I would call “conscious dating” and the way
I date differs depending on the end result I’m looking for. For example, in the last few months, I traveled to both Bali and Brazil on my own. I used the dating app Bumble in both places in order to match with local men in the area. My goal in dating while traveling is really just to get to know locals and learn about their culture, more so than actually finding “the One.” I’ve met so many amazing people while traveling that way, many of whom I still
EMPOWERED WOMEN
keep in touch with. And when I’m home in Orange County/L.A., I am much more selective about who I will go on a date with, since I am dating with the end goal of marriage. Every relationship you are in teaches you about what you do and don’t want in the next one, so I use those lessons to guide me in dating while in my hometown, and that way I use my time efficiently.
important as taking care of your body. What I’ve learned recently is that I need to slow down from time to time. I’m so used to constant work, travel, and play, but I’ve learned to listen to my body when it asks me to rest and be still. I get some of my best creative ideas when I’m still.
JK: I love how intentional you are with your time and energy—it’s such
JK : I love that you prioritize stillness and listening to your body— it’s such a powerful reminder to slow down and recharge. If you could share one piece of advice about living with intention or self-love, what would it be?
a refreshing approach to dating. Balancing dating, travel, and personal growth requires so much emotional awareness. What are some of the ways you practice emotional wellness daily? LT: It really does, because ultimately, if you are not taking care of
yourself, how can you expect to care for a relationship? On a daily basis, I meditate, work out, write in a gratitude journal, and sometimes even partake in “nature’s cold plunge” (i.e. jumping in the Pacific). Meditation is something I’ve gotten into recently and it’s really changed my life. I also regularly go to an energy healer in Laguna Beach named Chrissy Roletter (@chrissyar on Instagram) and I go to therapy on-and-off. Taking care of your mind is just as
SELF-LOVE & LIVING WITH INTENTION
LT: Fall in love with yourself, and the rest will fall into place.
When I first got out of my last relationship, I didn’t know how to love myself. So, what I did next was ask myself: What do I enjoy doing? What hobbies did I used to like? And I threw myself into those hobbies (and met lots of people who enjoy those hobbies along the way). There are so many clubs and groups out there for every sport or pastime imaginable. It’s been a great way for me to reconnect with things like tennis and running and hiking that bring me joy and make new connections while I’m at it. I really think that leaning into things that spark joy for you is the key. Because when you’re doing things you love, you start to love yourself more. And from that place, you’re in the perfect position to call in a new partner or the job of your dreams. Just make life fun and fulfilling in the now, and the rest will come in. JK: Laney, this has been such an inspiring conversation! Where can people connect with you? LT: I’m on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube
@laneyytucker, and my website is laneytucker.co! JK: Thank you, Laney! I can’t wait to see all the incredible things ahead for you!
To watch the full episode, visit BlueDoorMagazine.com and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations with women who are redefining success, love, and life. Laney Tucker @laneyytucker laneytucker.co
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Lambskin edge-to-edge jacket with chain trim | $9,090 Lipstick thigh-high boots in lambskin, mirror-effect leather, and brass | $3,795 Brass and plexiglass perfume earrings | $975 Brass perfume charm | $695 Large calfskin Anthem bag | $3,495
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FASHION
BALMAIN REINVENTS ITS ICONS Spring/Summer 2025 collection marks evolutionary milestones
Balmain’s latest collection reflects ongoing advancements and enhancements of the house’s distinctive identity. Olivier Rousteing revisits his early runway pieces and personal wardrobe essentials, channeling them into sharply tailored silhouettes, sculptural volumes, and intricate embellishments. Cropped jackets, structured hips, and a striking trouser-boot hybrid highlight the atelier’s technical finesse, while ornate pearl embroidery and fresh takes on marinière stripes and tweed honor Balmain’s legacy. Accessories, including the new Anthem bag, draw inspiration from couture and beauty, nodding to Balmain Beauty’s signature palette. The collection culminates in fluid silk gowns, celebrating diversity, craftsmanship, and modern elegance—core tenets of Rousteing’s enduring vision. Balmain us.balmain.com BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Cropped polka-dot tweed edge-to-edge jacket with eight buttons| $2,990 Olivier II sunglasses | $1,175
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FASHION
B-Court high-top tweed sneakers | $850 Perfume ring brass and enamel | $425
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One-shoulder glittered knit dress | $2,950 Jolie Madame bag in faux patent with raised mouth detail | $1,650
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FASHION Lipstick pumps in suede, leather, and brass | $2,350
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Left: Denim jacket with pearl trim | $3,890 B-Buzz dynasty bag in leather and embroidered satin | $4,600 Opposite: Thin straps embroidered pearls crop top | $2,990 High-waisted embroidered pearls short skirt | $4,490 Wide waist belt in braided chains and leather | $2,095 B-buzz pouch 23-inch pearl embroidered satin | $1,950
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FASHION
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One-shoulder draped dress with crystals | $7,750 Lipstick pumps in suede, leather, and brass | $2,350
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FASHION
Six-button fitted jacket with embroidered patches | $4,950 Brass and enamel perfume hoop earrings | $450 Victoire sunglasses | $765
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PLEASURES OF PLANTA COCINA
The greening of dining in Marina del Rey
by Robin Keats
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CULINARY
Plant-based and tasting like it’s been heaven-sent, the offerings of PLANTA appeal to any palate. You don’t need to be vegan-friendly to open your mind and delight your taste buds by having a meal at one of the most satisfying restaurants in Los Angeles. With two locations in the city (Marina del Rey and Brentwood) — and elsewhere across the continent — PLANTA has discovered that if you offer plant-based menus that reach the heights of culinary perfection, even the most die-hard meat-andpotatoes patrons will come. And they will be very happy that they did.
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Just such a group of patrons was docking a yacht at Marina del Rey, after a northerly sail from Newport Beach, when I recently arrived with my family for Sunday brunch at PLANTA’s Marina location, where the outdoor dining patio is on the water’s edge. The restaurant’s windows also afford wonderful views of the sunset and masts bobbing up and down in the Marina’s waters. But, as beautiful as it is, with an ambiance equal to the views, it is the food that thrills the most. “Since opening our doors in Marina del Rey in May 2023, this vibrant waterfront location has become a cornerstone of LA’s Westside dining scene,” says Bill Meripol, Executive Restaurant Leader. “With an airy dining room and waterfront patio, accommodating 126
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Above: PLANTA’s Marina del Rey location offers outdoor dining in an utterly iconic setting. Diners notice masts bobbing as chopsticks (or forks) rise and descend back to the plate. Right: With increasing requests from patrons for more salad offerings, PLANTA has recently added Baby Gem Green Goddess to their menu. Made with feta cheese fashioned from tofu, it’s gluten-free.
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200 guests, we’ve created a gathering place where local residents, marina boaters, and LA visitors come together. Latin-inspired cuisine, creative cocktails, and coastal views create an atmosphere that captures the essence of truly enjoying the plant-based life.” The vision for PLANTA originated with Founder and CEO Steven Salm and Co-founder and Executive Chef David Lee in 2016 “to expand,” as they’ve said, “the accessibility and acceptability of plant-based dining; dining as it should be—an unguilty pleasure.” They emphasize that they are very much invested in the meaning of local. “To us, a local approach means respecting, supporting, and advancing the places where we sprout,” they explain. “From hiring and sourcing locally to giving back through volunteer programs and driving local initiatives forward, we aim to always feel like a natural fit.” Salm and Lee emphasize, “Every PLANTA experience is a step toward a greener future. Our dedication to environmental sustainability is interwoven throughout every part of our business. From sourcing to restaurant design and packaging to partnerships, we seek to put more back into the world than we take.” PLANTA, they add, “is for the planet.” Menus and hours vary from restaurant to restaurant, though not greatly; just enough for Los Angelenos (and visitors from Coastal Orange County and beyond) to try both locations on LA’s Westside for unique dining.
Right: The Hugo Spritz cocktail combines elderflower, prosecco, seltzer, mint, and lime. On Saturdays and Sundays, the brunch offers unlimited servings for two hours. Opposite: Made with plant-based “brisket,” the Classic Reuben sandwich is for lovers of classic deli fare who cherish its taste but take their health seriously. It is seriously both delicious and heart-healthy.
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CULINARY Subtly elegant, without being formal in any sense, dining indoors here is a kick-back experience. The seating is very comfortable, and the acoustics are superb.
Planta Cocina 4625 Admiralty Way, Suite 104 Marina del Rey 310.362.7730 plantarestaurants.com
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GUSTAVE CAILLEBOTTE: PAINTING MEN An exhibition at the J. Paul Getty Museum
By Robin Keats
Soldiers, workers, sportsmen, family, and friends— Parisian men from all walks of life in the latter part of the 19th century—fill the canvases of French painter Gustave Caillebotte. For the first time, Caillebotte’s distinctive vision of modern masculinity is on display at the J. Paul Getty Museum in a major international loan exhibition. Gustave Caillebotte: Painting Men is a large-scale celebration of his work at the Getty (in conjunction with the Art Institute of Chicago and Paris’ Musée d’Orsay) that runs through May 25.
Self-Portrait, about 1892 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Musée d’Orsay, Paris. Acquired with funds from an anonymous Canadian donation, 1971 Opposite: Young Man at His Window, 1876 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Getty Museum
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“Exceptional for their immersive compositions and energetic execution, Gustave Caillebotte’s paintings raise fascinating questions about gender norms and masculinity in 19th-century France and continue to spark discussion and debate today,” says Timothy Potts, the Maria Hummer-Tuttle and Robert Tuttle Director of the Getty Museum. “We are delighted to partner with the Musée d’Orsay and the Art Institute of Chicago to bring to the West Coast many of Caillebotte’s most compelling and famous paintings in a display that highlights his originality while situating him in biographical, social, and historical context.” Presented thematically, the exhibition opens
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with Caillebotte’s family life, the subject of his first important paintings, shown in his public debut with the Impressionists in 1876.
Opposite: Paris Street, Rainy Day, 1877 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas The Art Institute of Chicago, Charles H. and Mary F. S. Worcester Collection, 1964. Below: On the Pont de l’Europe, about 1877 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, Texas
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The exhibition’s mounting faced an unexpected hurdle as paintings were gathered, says Scott Allan, Getty’s curator of paintings. “The fires were sweeping through the hills, and some (loaners of the paintings, including members of Caillebotte’s own family) were understandably a bit nervous about sending such treasures here at such a time.” But all, save one of the sought-after works, safely made it to the Getty, much to the relief of curators and to the benefit of all those wanting to see the masterpieces. “Caillebotte was a great innovator both in his highly personal choice of subjects and his powerful presentation of them,” Allan explains. “He was unusually curious about the men in his world, showing them in public and private, indoors and out, at work, play, and rest, in various modes of dress, and from all kinds of riveting angles and
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Above: Floor Scrapers, 1875 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Musée d’Orsay, Paris. Gift of the heirs of Caillebotte through his executor Auguste Renoir, 1894 Opposite: A Boat Race, 1893 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Private collection
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viewpoints. He really broadened the scope of modern painting, and his work productively challenges our clichéd understandings of the Impressionist movement.” Caillebotte never married but, in his final years, lived with Charlotte Berthier, a longtime companion who rarely appeared in his art. He died at 45 years old and left his collection of paintings by his fellow Impressionists to the French State. While a selection of those works went to the Musée de Luxembourg before eventually forming the core of the Musée d’Orsay’s Impressionist collection, Caillebotte’s paintings were retained by his brother Martial and a few friends. His work was largely unknown until major institutions began exhibiting his art in the second half of the 20th century, establishing his place as a key figure of the Impressionist movement.
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Boating Party, about 1877-78 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Musée d’Orsay, Paris. Painting listed “national treasure” by the French Republic, acquired with the exclusive patronage of LVMH, major patron of the Musée d’Orsay, 2022
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Opposite: Angling, 1878 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Private collection Photo © Frank Buffetrille. All rights reserved 2023 / Bridgeman Images
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Above: The Bezique Game, about 1881 by Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas Louvre Abu Dhabi Image © Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / Photo Opposite: In a Café, 1880 Gustave Caillebotte Oil on canvas 61 x 45 1/4 in (155 x 115 cm) Musée d’Orsay, Paris. On deposit at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Rouen
The Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities provided an indemnity for the exhibition. City National Bank and Gregory Annenberg Weingarten, GRoW @ Annenberg, generously supported it. Consulat Général de France à Los Angeles and Villa Albertine are cultural partners of the exhibition. Gustave Caillebotte: Painting Men on view through May 25, 2025. Getty Center 1200 Getty Center Drive Los Angeles 310.440.7330 getty.edu
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A MIDWINTER’S DREAM SOJOURN by Tiffany Bowne
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TRAVEL Motu Nao Nao
Tahiti is not too far afar Tahiti is one of my favorite destinations and if you live on the West Coast and haven’t gotten there yet, you are missing out! It’s one of the most exotic destinations one can reach easily from Los Angeles International Airport. Most people think it is far, but it’s pretty easy to get to. My equation is that it is “an in-flight movie past Hawaii.” There is a red-eye flight there and a red-eye flight on the return, so you get extra time on the ground in Tahiti, which means if you stay four nights, you get six full days! Two carriers get you there: Air Tahiti Nui and Air France. Getting flights and availability on your dates can get tricky as there are limited flights daily and the same carriers sometimes don’t run every day. Based on the timing of these flights, it might be necessary to overnight near Papeete Airport and get a day pass at a nearby hotel while waiting for your flight. Planning is important. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Tahiti is for water lovers. It is a place to enjoy crystal-clear water and spend time relaxing and absorbing the views. It truly is visually spectacular, and you can get the over-water bungalow experience that you’ve seen in magazines. Take advantage of the many amenities your resort of choice offers: water activities like snorkeling, ray and shark dives, and private beach picnics. Usually, when I plan trips to Tahiti, I incorporate Bora Bora with another island option. There are many properties to choose from on Bora Bora, and each has its unique feel. A few of my favorites are The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, and the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. But the newest property is the renovated The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. This is a great addition to the island, and the location of property (it used to be the Le Meridien Bora Bora) is outstanding. After being closed for a full renovation, it’s the newest product there right now. 144
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TRAVEL The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
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The Brando
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TRAVEL
Visiting two islands makes for a perfect trip, and The Brando is a wonderful addition to Bora Bora. It is a private island experience, an absolute dream of a property with exquisite accommodations and curated activities. Because it is an island with no other resorts, it naturally becomes an all-inclusive experience that includes a selection of activities with your meals. This hotel does not offer any over-water bungalow options, but their beach villas each come with a private pool. It does require a seat on their charter plane to get there at an additional cost, but the flight in (with the extraordinary aerial view upon arrival) will be a total WOW. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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Motu Nao Nao
Saving the best for last is your true private island luxury experience at Motu Nao Nao. This is a luxury villa rental on a private island off the coast of Raiatea. The experience is off the charts. It comes with a full staff, amazing meals with a private chef, custom and personalized activities, and offers one of the most memorable stays possible. Motu Nao Nao has superb water activities—some of which you cannot do at The Brando or in Bora Bora—and includes motorized water activities such as kite surfing, wakeboarding, and spearfishing. Having your own water sports concierge on site so you can fill every day enjoying the water is beyond luxury! Motu Nao Nao is a place to connect with island life and make lasting memories. It is one of the most amazing stays I have ever had, my top on the list. It’s the perfect location for a few couples or a small family to stay, or to experience a milestone moment. Raiatea is “off the grid” of Tahitian islands with few tourist options so just the arrival feels very exotic and remote even though it’s super close to the other islands. Enjoy all the amenities of a luxury villa, a private chef, housekeeping, sundowner cocktails set up on a private beach or a boat, movie nights, nightly entertainment, masseuse, and yoga. They allow three-night stay options, which make it perfect to combine with a hotel stay on another island. It’s an easy commercial flight to Raiatea from Papeete or another island or its possible to charter a helicopter. 150
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Motu Nao Nao
Tahiti is mostly a year-round destination, but it can get rainy from December through March. It’s still busy during this period even though there are some sporadic afternoon showers. It is French Polynesia and can tend to be expensive once you get there, with restrictions on having the majority of your meals where you are staying. As a luxury travel advisor, I’m confident that it’s a place everyone should visit at least once. Lounge Couture 2700 East Coast Hwy Suite 100 Corona Del Mar 310.577.2177 info@loungecouture.com loungecouture.com 152
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Wigz Sandwich Shop 1816 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach 949.235.8785 wigzlaguna.com
Winter Hours Monday–Sunday 10am–6pm
STRATEGIC FINANCING THROUGH A PRIVATE FAMILY OFFICE How SilverWest Partners Provides Thoughtful Financial Solutions in Coastal Orange County
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FINANCE
In Coastal Orange County’s luxury real estate market, where custom-built estates and high-end developments require financial agility, SilverWest Partners provides an alternative to traditional bank lending. As a private family office, they offer tailored financing solutions that prioritize flexibility, discretion, and strategic partnerships—key advantages for developers, investors, and high-net-worth individuals navigating the complexities of high-value real estate. Unlike institutional lenders bound by rigid underwriting processes, SilverWest Partners structures financing solutions that align with the unique needs and objectives of its clients. Whether funding a multi-million-dollar custom home, repositioning a luxury estate, or structuring a complex commercial deal, Greg Moers and his team offer bespoke capital strategies that ensure projects are financed efficiently and with long-term success in mind. “Luxury real estate transactions—especially in places like Laguna Beach and Newport Beach—require financing solutions that reflect both the complexity of the deals and the ambitions of those behind them,” Greg explains.
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A SMARTER APPROACH TO LUXURY REAL ESTATE FINANCING
One of the key advantages of working with a private family office is the ability to adapt quickly to a project’s specific financial landscape. Instead of forcing clients into generic lending structures, SilverWest Partners assesses each deal on its own merit, ensuring that capital is deployed where it is truly needed—without unnecessary burdens on the borrower. A prime example of this approach involved a borrower with an eightstory, fully entitled mixed-use development. Despite the complex collateral package and multiple short-term loans, Greg and his team carefully analyzed the project’s financial needs. Instead of issuing a potentially burdensome $8 million loan, SilverWest determined that only $4 million was necessary, ensuring a cost-effective, secure solution that protected the borrower’s long-term financial interests. “This level of precision and strategic underwriting not only safeguarded the project but also paved the way for future collaborations on larger developments,” says Greg. CUSTOM CAPITAL SOLUTIONS FOR A COMPETITIVE MARKET
By leveraging their expertise in both debt and equity financing, SilverWest Partners balances risk and opportunity, providing developers and investors with access to capital that aligns with their project goals. Their financing solutions include: • Acquisition and bridge loans for time-sensitive transactions. • Mezzanine and construction financing structured around complex, high-value developments. • Hybrid capital solutions blending debt and equity to maximize liquidity and minimize risk. • Specialized refinancing options for luxury property owners seeking flexible, long-term financing. This high-touch, relationship-driven approach makes SilverWest Partners a trusted resource for those seeking more than just a loan— they offer strategic financial guidance that supports both short-term project execution and long-term wealth building. LOOKING AHEAD
As luxury real estate in Orange County continues to evolve, Greg Moers and SilverWest Partners remain committed to providing tailored financial solutions that help developers and investors navigate both opportunities and challenges. “Luxury real estate is as much about relationships as it is about capital,” Greg says. “Our goal is to ensure that our clients not only secure the funding they need but also have a trusted partner who understands their long-term aspirations.” 156
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Greg Moers SilverWest Partners 310.415.1641 greg@silverwestpartners.com silverwestpartners.com
FINANCE
“Luxury real estate is as much about relationships as it is about capital. Our goal is to ensure that our clients not only secure the funding they need but also have a trusted partner who understands their long-term aspirations.” —Greg Moers
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118 Via Xanthe, Newport Beach
9 Clear Water, Ne
21975 Sunburst Ln, Red Bluff
Newport Beach | BackBa
W H O Y O U W O R K W I T H M AT T E R S ®
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T
FROM THE AGENT: “This property is truly exceptional. Blending rich heritage with charming REALTOR REALTOR® ® details, its sizable lot and prime location make it one-of-a-kind. It’s been maintained and updated with such care and attention to offer modern amenities while preserving its historic character. CalRE#01346878 CalRE#01346878 This home isn’t just a place to live; it’s a significant piece of Dana Point history.”
TIM TIMSMITH SMITH
949.867.7050 949.867.7050 949.867.4994 tim@timsmithgroup.com tim@timsmithgroup.com timsmithrealestategroup.com timsmithrealestategroup.com
*For large teams with 4+ members with|Coldwell Banker, Realogy Brokerage Group. The property information herein is derived fr TIM SMITH 949.867.7050 include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it w tim@timsmithgroup.com ©2022 Coldwell Banker. timsmithrealestategroup.com All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Ba a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Cold
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FEATURED PROPERTIES
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: 26771 Calle Real, Dana Point 2,832 sq ft | 4Br/3.5Ba | $3,495,000 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: Built in 1929, this historic Doheny home in Capistrano Beach has been carefully preserved and upgraded for modern living. Set on a rare, oversized lot of approximately 8,481 square feet, the Spanish Colonial Revival hacienda with gated entry is nestled in a tranquil setting of native plantings, pebble pathways, towering olive trees, serene sitting and dining spaces, and custom fountains. A 422-square-foot detached casita caters to guests while the main residence features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with the ocean-view primary suite upstairs. Open-living spaces spill onto tranquil courtyards, and the kitchen has been enhanced with top-tier appliances. Close to Doheny Beach and Dana Point Harbor, the home benefits from historic registry tax advantages. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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FROM THE AGENT: “During two decades of selling homes on Lido Isle, I have had the good fortune of representing some exceptional properties and 113 Via San Remo is right up there at the top. Impeccable quality and timeless style. Every time I walk through the front door to show the home, I am enamored by how perfect this residence is.” JON FLAGG | 949.533.7878 jon@flaggrealestate.com jonflagg.com 160
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FEATURED PROPERTIES
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: 113 Via San Remo, Newport Beach 3,728 sq ft | $8,950,000 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: A masterpiece of design and craftsmanship, this stunning French Provincial home on Lido Isle was meticulously designed by Cynthia Childs and custom-built by Legacy CDM. Featuring impeccable materials such as reclaimed wood beams, limestone flooring, and exquisite stonework, the home offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a dedicated office, and a private courtyard with a wood-burning fireplace. Located on a premier southfacing parcel, directly across from a lush park and just steps from Lido’s private beach and clubhouse, it provides easy access to Lido Marina Village’s world-class dining and shopping—a true statement of luxury and timeless elegance. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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FROM THE AGENT: “Linda Isle is one of Newport Beach’s most exceptional communities. Each home offers a private dock and stunning views. 47 Linda Isle offers luxurious bayfront living with access to the city’s finest dining and retail. It is private and exclusive yet incredibly convenient.” TIM CARR | 949.631.9999 tim@timcarrgroup.com timcarrgroup.com 162
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FEATURED PROPERTIES
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: 47 Linda Isle, Newport Beach 4,344 sq ft | Private Dock and Harbor Views | $15,995,000 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: This stunning bayfront home, designed by renowned architect Edward Giddings, blends coastal elegance with modern luxury. Located in the guard-gated community of Linda Isle, this Santa Barbara-style residence features soaring ceilings, expansive harbor-view windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor living with a waterfront patio and multiple balconies. A private dock currently accommodates a 45- to 50-foot yacht, with potential for larger vessels. Linda Isle offers residents a clubhouse, tennis courts, and a private bay beach, all in the heart of Newport Beach—a perfect gateway to coastal living and Newport’s vibrant waterways. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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SOLD IN 6 DAYS Highest Sale Ever in Irvine Terrace
FROM THE AGENT: “This is an exciting and rare opportunity on Bayadere, the first sale in nearly four years. With one of the largest view frontages, a well-maintained home, and an incredible, unobstructed panorama, this property offers an exceptional chance to experience the best of coastal living.” CASEY LESHER | 949.702.7047 caseylesher@gmail.com caseylesher.com
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FEATURED PROPERTIES
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: 1615 Bayadere Terrace, Corona Del Mar 5,741 sq ft | One of the largest view frontages in Irvine Terrace | $22,000,000 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: Poised on one of the most prestigious parcels in Irvine Terrace, this extraordinary estate boasts one of the largest view frontages in the community, capturing breathtaking panoramas of Newport Harbor, the Pacific Ocean, and Catalina Island. Set on a 19,100-square-foot lot, this architectural triumph seamlessly blends grandeur with warmth, offering unparalleled indoor-outdoor living. Beyond the grand entry, a serene front courtyard features a resort-style pool and spa—a private oasis surrounded by lush landscaping and architectural elegance. Inside, soaring beamed ceilings and expansive walls of glass frame mesmerizing coastal vistas. Thoughtfully designed for intimate gatherings and largescale entertaining, the home spans 5,741 square feet with four bedrooms, an office, and a dedicated workout room. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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FROM THE AGENT: “Take advantage of the opportunity to make this coastal paradise your own.” MIKE JOHNSON & SYLVIA AMES | 949.207.3725 michaeljohnson100@gmail.com mikejohnsongroup.com 166
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FEATURED PROPERTIES
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: 830 Temple Hills Drive, Laguna Beach 2,689 sq ft | Catalina, City Lights and Coastline Views | $4,950,000 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: Welcome to this stunning 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home conveniently located in the neighborhood of lower Temple Hills/Village in Laguna Beach. This spacious home and parcel have been meticulously designed and executed to offer a perfect blend of luxurious indoor living and breathtaking outdoor vistas. Experience the epitome of coastal luxury living in this remarkable property, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated to provide an exceptional living experience. BlueDoorMagazine.com
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2914 OCEAN, CORONA DEL MAR 2914OCEAN.COM
2914 OCEAN Brilliantly positioned along prestigious Ocean Boulevard, this rare architectural masterpiece boasts unparalleled, unobstructed views of the channel, Newport Harbor, Catalina, and The Wedge. Designed by Geoff Sumich and built by Nicholson Companies, this 7,834-square-foot estate seamlessly blends modern luxury with natural elements, offering a lifestyle rich in amenities. Floorto-ceiling glass walls vanish at the touch of a button, welcoming the ocean breeze and framing endless coastal vistas. 5 BEDROOMS
6 FULL BATHROOMS
2 HALF BATHROOMS
7,834 SQUARE FOOT HOME
8,337 SQUARE FOOT LOT
2914OCEAN.COM | OFFERED AT $24,222,222
CASEY@CASEY L ESH ER .CO M | CASE Y LE SH E R .CO M 949.702.7047 | D R E 01795953 Christie’s International Real Estate Southern California is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527644. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. If your property is currently listed for sale this is not a solicitation.
949.702.7047 | CASEY@CASEYLESHER.COM | CASEYLESHER.COM | DRE 01795953