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CONTENTS

UP FRONT

68

62

A New Frontier

The I List: On Pointe

By Nakayla Shakespeare

By Nakayla Shakespeare

70

66

82

Radiance, Reimagined

Must Haves: Savor the Silhouette

By Renee Dee

By Amalie Rhebeck

74

92

Toast to the Season

Setting the Table

By Nakayla Shakespeare

By Amalie Rhebeck

100

Celebrating Outdoor Living

By Nakayla Shakespeare

LAST WORD

160

ICONIC: The Art of Après

78

Pastry Perfection

By Amalie Rhebeck

By Katherine Lawless

82

Set in Stone

By Lindsey Wilson

Live Beautifully

ON THE COVER 40

ICONICLIFE.COM

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renee Dee. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nakayla Shakespeare.

PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Sacro. HAIR & MAKEUP Melissa Evans. MODEL Shae, Ford Robert Black Agency. ICONIC TEAM Amalie Rhebeck, Madeleine Perich. WARDROBE Fashion by Robert Black. STYLING Nakayla Shakespeare. LOCATION Tell Your Friends

ENDLESS INSPIRATION at every turn

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CONTENTS

FEATURES

112

A Night at the Juice Joint

By Nakayla Shakespeare

122

Full Focus

By Fran Miller

130

Jungle Floors, Crystal Shores

By Fran Miller

136

Bon Appétit

By Masada Siegel

142

Echoes of Deco

By Nora Burba Trulsson

150

The Beauty of Barcelona

By Renee Dee

130 44

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PUBLISHER’S POV

I’M SO GRATEFUL A

nd just like that, it’s the holidays and my favorite time of the year to celebrate with family and friends. I love Thanksgiving the most, as the practice of gratitude resonates with me. I start my day with my gratitude journal…Yes, I still do this! It’s a peaceful feeling to reflect on all the big and little things for which I am grateful. I also believe that keeping them top of mind attracts more of what you want in your life.

Renee M. Dee Publisher renee@iconiclife.com @iconiclifemag @iconicreneedee

What are you grateful for this year? Here’s mine!

• My Son: His energy, constant flow of big ideas and entrepreneurial spirit amaze and challenge me. Like he says, “I don’t know where I get this.” (wink.)

• My Family: Outside my little unit of my son and a dog named Blu, I have my mom and sisters with their growing families in town, and it’s truly a gift to have family nearby.

• My Friends: This list is a mighty crew that I consider even closer than family; some near, some far; some new, some old.

• My Team: Nothing great ever happens without a great team. For that, I am so grateful for team ICONIC’s achievements and dedication! Thank you, Nakayla, Madeleine, Amalie, Meg, Dorothy, Lucia, Erin and Dianne!

• The Design Community: This year, we celebrated with a record-breaking audience at the ICONIC Design Awards in Scottsdale, we’ve honored four years of Top Designers in Orange County and met the best of the best in Palm Desert/Palm Springs.

Being a part of these design communities feels like home to me, and I’ve never been more impressed by the designers, architects and builders we get to work with. Thank you for your support of our ICONIC mission.

• My Travel: I’ve enjoyed ICONIC Travel this year and am back on track to Living Beautifully. These trips were rewards for some hard work over the years and were immeasurably fun because I traveled with dear friends.

• My Health: My most precious asset.

• My Next Chapter: Seven years after launching ICONIC LIFE, it’s time to put this growing media company into the hands of someone with the runway and resources to take my vision for what ICONIC LIFE will be and turn it into reality. It’s also time for me to work on new ventures with a new leader, my son Spencer. This is a special time for which I am so grateful to be able to build something with him. I won’t be far away, as ICONIC LIFE will always be a part of me, and the friends I have made along the way are lifelong friends.

The following letter will be written by our new owner, President & CEO, Tracy Thomas II. I have enormous respect for what he will build next, and I trust him because we share the values that the ICONIC LIFE brand stands for. Plus, I count him as one of my new friends, and we’re having fun on this journey. He, his wife Erica and their growing family will lead the ICONIC charge, and I couldn’t be more grateful for such a perfect person to show up, invest in and take the reins at ICONIC LIFE. The best is yet to come.

With Gratitude,

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Photo by Chris Loomis

I am so grateful for all of you, and wish you the happiest of holidays this year.

S ER RS SO ON N LL II N NC CO O LL N N SA AN ND DE

ADVERTORIAL

It’s All About the Process How Febal Casa Scottsdale is revolutionizing the design experience.

By ICONIC LIFE

W

hen Bobby Banica launched Febal Casa Scottsdale in May 2024, his goal was to deliver Italian design solutions that merge luxury with function.

“Every great project starts with a strong foundation,” says Bobby, owner of Febal Casa Scottsdale . “For us, that foundation is a deep understanding of the space, the requirements, and—most importantly— the client.” He notes that collaboration is

central, with concepts evolving through presentations and reviews until the design “checks every box and feels truly complete.”

Functionality is always top of mind. “There is always a delicate balance between form and function,” Bobby explains. “Depending on a client’s lifestyle, the design may lean more toward functionality or aesthetics.

Thanks to the extensive variety of finishes and design elements we offer, we are able to achieve a modern and luxurious look without ever compromising functionality.”

That variety is one of Febal Casa’s differentiators. “Details such as an aluminum edge or a aluminum frame for a specific finish may seem small, but they make a big impact,” Bobby says. Options span porcelain, painted glass, fluted wood, lacquer, Fenix and more—allowing styles from transitional to modern or minimalist.

Sustainability is also a priority. As part of the Colombini Group, Febal Casa emphasizes

eco-certified materials and responsible production practices. “We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint while maintaining the highest standards of quality and design,” Bobby affirms.

The company’s integrated approach further streamlines the process. “Being a one-stop shop means a smoother, more streamlined experience from start to finish,” Bobby says.

With design, fabrication, installation, and even remodeling services under one roof, clients benefit from efficiency, consistency, and reliable timelines.

For Bobby, the mission is clear: “to deliver designs that feel both personal and timeless.”

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EDITOR’S POV

THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE It’s the most wonderful time of the year.

A

s the holiday season begins, work takes a backseat to the more important things in life: family, friends and quality time with those you love. This time of year is so special because it reminds us of the why behind our work. It also reminds us to pause and reflect on all the things for which we should be grateful.

Editor-in-Chief nakayla@iconiclife.com @iconiclifemag

We are proud to announce that ICONIC LIFE took home three Eddies for our Longevity issue, the ICONIC Estates Russ Lyon Podcast and our ICONIC Estates YouTube series. Thank you for helping us make all that we do here possible.

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I am also thankful to live in such a beautiful state, Arizona. Being able to celebrate outdoor living during the wintertime is such an incredible luxury.

We have a fantastic community of people who contribute to that luxury, and you can meet some of these individuals in our Celebrating Outdoor Living section on page 100.

Lastly, I am thankful for the amazing people that I get to spend every day with at ICONIC LIFE. I am so grateful for my loving fiancé, my family and friends that I get to share life's most beautiful moments with. I hope you all have a wonderful time with your families during this time. Cheers to all the amazing things we’ve accomplished this year, and I look forward to all that 2026 has in store.

Yours truly, Photo by Erika Kapin Photography

Nakayla Shakespeare

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of you, not only for your support of the magazine, but also for your support of me. In the two and a half years that I have been at the magazine, we have accomplished some pretty ambitious things, from the Black and White issue in April of 2024 when we asked everyone to submit their ads in black and white, to the ICONIC LIFE September issue when we asked 26 of our top designers to join us for a photoshoot all at once. Both of these examples required a leap of faith and a shared belief in my vision. For all of you who made these endeavors possible, I am grateful.

photography by cj tronnier gershon

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VOLUME 07.25 TRACY THOMAS | President & CEO RENEE M. DEE | Publisher NAKAYLA SHAKESPEARE | Editor-in-Chief MEG PERICH | Associate Publisher DOROTHY COSTELLO | Business Development Director OC ERIN SUWWAN | Publication Designer MADELEINE PERICH | Marketing Coordinator AMALIE RHEBECK | Marketing Intern NANCY ERDMANN | Features Editor MARK SACRO | Cover Photographer CONTRIBUTORS Fran Miller, Katherine Lawless, Lindsey Wilson, Masada Siegel and Nora Burba Trulsson Advertising and Editorial Queries, contact us at meg@iconiclife.com 8145 E. Evans Road, Suite 7 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480.330.3737 Subscribe NOW: ICONICLIFE.COM Follow us @iconiclifemag

ICONICLIFE.COM Live Beautifully © 2025 ICONIC LIFE. All rights reserved. All material in this magazine may not be reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any form without the written permission of ICONIC LIFE.

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I N T R O D U C I N G T H E A S H L E Y S T A R K H O M E N A T U R A L LY T I M E L E S S COLLECTION WITH RUGS THAT DOUBLE AS WORKS OF ART

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CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

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BALMAIN

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RENE CAOVILLA

Margot Red Velvet Sandal 120. ($1,800) via Rene Caovilla.

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W i s h i n g y o u a n I n s p i r i n g N e w Ye a r W W ii ss h h ii n n gg yy oo u u a an n II n n ss p p ii rr ii n n gg N N ee w w Ye Ye a a rr

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MUST HAVES

By Amalie Rhebeck

HERMÈS

Iskender Wine Decanter. ($1,840) via Hermès.

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BACCARAT

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A NEW FRONTIER 68

ICONICLIFE.COM

Gary Ernest Smith has spent a lifetime capturing the allure of the American West.

By Nakayla Shakespeare

W

hen you view Gary Ernest Smith’s work on a gallery wall, you are struck with a strong feeling of awe. His vivid amber sunsets and landscapes capture the essence of the Western spirit and the new frontier, where the skies are a source of wonder and the open land offers opportunity. “I paint the generation I grew up in, which is the building and cultivation generation of America,” Ernest Smith says.

Growing up on a cattle ranch in Eastern Oregon, Ernest Smith has always had a bond with nature and the vast West.

He quickly found his passion for art, painting figurative landscapes of his ranch experience. “My parents recognized my talent and helped me. I was supplied with enough materials to support my interests. I was actually selling my paintings at an early age in high school,” Ernest Smith explains.

Ernest Smith took a short break from art to study at Brigham Young University and then serve in the military during the Vietnam War. Coming home from deployment, Ernest Smith decided to focus on what made him happy: painting.

“Every artist tries to find their niche,” Ernest Smith says. “You have to find what excites you and paint it. I was in a state in my life where I didn’t know where I was going or what I was going to do. I had been experimenting a lot, and I had gone to Europe to study all the great art and immerse myself in it.

One day I was out on a field in Oregon and I stopped, looked around and said, ‘Why can’t I paint this?’”

Over the course of 60 years, Ernest Smith’s work has been celebrated by art enthusiasts, aficionados and appreciators alike. Many of his works have been featured in galleries across the nation, including an upcoming exhibition at Bonner David Galleries, which will showcase his life’s work and his most recent collection, “Evening Majesty,” which explores the beauty of the sky.

“I look for the essence and the beauty of something,” Ernest Smith explains. “ There is this vastness of beauty within the universe that you see when you look up at the sky. There are so many intricacies.” Ernest Smith compares his latest collection to the works of the artist J.M.W. Turner. “He did large paintings of billowy clouds coming off the ocean,” Ernest Smith explains.

“They were extremely creamy and abstract for their day, but they captured something more. I would equate that in a sense to what I am doing, finding beauty in the mundane things around us.”

Ernest Smith’s work is a testament to his passion for his craft, not only reflecting his values of seeking out the beauty in the world, but also reflecting his generation of craftsmen, pioneers and builders of the great American West. While his subject matter has evolved over the years, his quality remains consistent. “ The best thing you can do is put your best foot forward, and that’s what I have wanted to do; leave a legacy of honest work that stands on its own.”

ICONICLIFE.COM

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Radiance, Reimagined Experience the luxury of La Prairie’s Pure Gold Revitalizing Essence.

By Renee Dee

T

here are moments in beauty when science and luxury intersect so flawlessly that you know you’re holding something extraordinary. That’s exactly how I felt when I tried La Prairie’s newest innovation, the Pure Gold Revitalizing Essence.

Launched earlier this fall, this shimmering elixir was born from a bold idea: to address the profound changes our skin experiences through hormonal aging, particularly during menopause. As a publisher—and someone who thrives on discovering what’s next—I was intrigued by its promise to replenish what time and biology may diminish: density, nourishment and light.

The texture is silken, with a whisper of gold that instantly brightens the skin's complexion. But beneath its glow is serious science.

La Prairie’s Advanced Pure Gold Diffusion

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System and Exclusive Cellular Complex work in tandem with the Gold & Peptide Powered Meno Complex to soothe, fortify and reawaken the skin as estrogen levels shift. Time-released glabridin supports the barrier and calms sensitivity, while collagen is boosted for renewed firmness.

After just a week, I noticed more than radiance—my skin felt comforted, plumped and resilient. It’s as though the essence teaches your complexion to glow from within, even during life’s transitions and with aging skin.

At $530 for 130 ml, this is a decadent investment, but one that rewards with visible vitality and a ritual of self-care. For anyone seeking luminosity through every season of life, Pure Gold Revitalizing Essence is a golden beginning.

ICONICLIFE.COM

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Photo courtesy of La Prairie

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Toast Season to the

By Amalie Rhebeck

W

hile the holidays may bring to mind images of snowfall, warm scarves and fireside dinners, Christmas in Phoenix means chilled cocktails, outdoor bars and sunny weather.

Downtown’s most exclusive pop-up holiday experience, Miracle Bar, is back for its seventh year of seasonal magic at the opulent Floor 13 Rooftop Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Downtown.

One of dozens of locations dispersed across the U.S., the holiday pop-up experience offers guests an opportunity to get lost in a winter wonderland that overlooks the sparkling city skyline. Open Nov. 22 through 74

ICONICLIFE.COM

Dec. 30, Miracle Bar features craft cocktails, beautiful views and festive fun all season long.

This year, the menu boasts Miracle Bar’s signature drinks, like Run Run Reindeer, featuring mulled wine, prosecco and lemon, and fresh additions, such as Coconut Hot Chocolate, with Jamaican rum and coconut whipped cream. A thoughtful and whimsical mocktail menu enhances the inclusive experience, offering notable new beverages, such as Silent Night, a tart cherry drink with hints of orange and smooth chocolate.

Reservations are required for this event, which is divided into 90-minute experiences

with access to the bar and table seating.

Additionally, Miracle Bar at Floor 13 offers guests an exclusive opportunity to book the Miracle Suite, a one-of-a-kind private hotel room with stunning views and unhindered access to the bar and festive holiday decor.

Looking for a more casual night out? Miracle Bar is also returning to BLVD Kitchen & Bar in Scottsdale for its second year. Open Nov. 29 through Dec. 24, Miracle at BLVD Kitchen & Bar is a relaxed patio bar in the heart of Old Town. It features all of the whimsy and libations guests have come to expect, but with no reservations required, making it the perfect stop on a holiday-themed bar crawl through Old Town.

This season, you don’t need to travel far to indulge in the merriment of the holidays.

Miracle Bar is bringing the whimsy of Christmas to Phoenix and Scottsdale with an experience that will uplift your spirits and delight your senses.

Photos courtesy of Miracle Bar

Forget the snow. Phoenix’s most festive pop-up brings holiday cheer to the Valley’s rooftops and patios.

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Pastry Perfection Meet Chef Christina Kaelberer, Executive Pastry Chef of Four Seasons Scottsdale.

Photography courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale

By Katherine Lawless

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his October, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale unveiled Desert Orchard, an artisanal cafe concept inspired by the understated abundance of the Sonoran Desert and the area’s ranching history.

Located beneath the striking silhouette of Pinnacle Peak, Desert Orchard invites guests to share in a culinary experience rooted in place, celebrating nourishment, resilience and connection.

Leading this fresh chapter for Four Seasons Scottsdale is Executive Pastry Chef Christina Kaelberer, a new addition to the resort’s culinary team. With more than 15 years of experience (including 11 restaurant openings), Kaelberer has launched acclaimed dessert programs and high-profile

dining concepts nationwide. Her career highlights include culinary roles at Four Seasons Hotel Fort Lauderdale, Raffles Boston and The ‘Quin House, as well as her work at Schwan’s Company.

Now, Kaelberer brings her impressive resume and culinary curiosity to Four Seasons Scottsdale’s new café and the resort’s existing restaurant offerings. She will work closely with her “small but mighty team,” which handles many other aspects of the guest experience outside of Desert Orchard, including breakfast pastries, in-room amenities and delicate desserts served at weddings or banquets.

“I’m incredibly excited about leading Desert Orchard for our guests and local community.

It’s a concept that allows us to surprise and delight in new ways,” Kaelberer says.

Desert Orchard’s menu is designed to showcase the desert’s bounty of drought-tolerant herbs, ripe fruits and seasonal produce.

Fresh-baked croissants feature notes of citrus and lavender, and grain bowls are supplemented by desert-grown vegetables.

“Guests can expect desserts that highlight local flavors, often with playful, savory twists that create unexpected and memorable flavor combinations. Some of my favorites include the Basque Cheesecake and Horchata Panna Cotta from Talavera and the Peanut Butter Pie and Baked Arizona from Proof,” Kaelberer says.

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Set Stone in

The design of this Arizona home is a testament to the beauty that can come from trust and collaboration.

By Lindsey Wilson Photography by Dan Ryan

ARCHITECT Scott Carson, Cosan Studio. BUILDER Greg Hunt, GM Hunt Builders. INTERIOR DESIGNER Kristin Hazen, Kristin Hazen Design. PHOTOGRAPHY Dan Ryan, Dan Ryan Studios.

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he first thing you notice is the stone wall. It begins at the entry, extending uninterrupted through the dining room and into the kitchen, transforming seamlessly into the backsplash. In the primary suite, it reappears as a backdrop, grounding the interiors with organic permanence.

For interior designer Kristin Hazen, of Kristin Hazen Design, this single architectural gesture is the heart of this custom-built Arizona retreat. “It’s one of my favorite parts of this home,” she says. “It was the architectural feature that we completely designed around.” The effect is striking: rough-hewn stone set against clean-lined architecture,

softened by furnishings that lend warmth and comfort. It’s a defining feature that lingers in people’s memories.

Architect Scott Carson of Cosan Studio describes the home as “classic desert transitional style with modern detailing—simple in massing yet elevated in amenities, with a sophisticated, casual feel that lives very comfortably.” From the project’s start, it was all about striking that balance.

The homeowners wanted a smaller footprint and lock-and-leave convenience after living in a multi-level home, but they asked that it feel spacious and airy. “They

enjoy entertaining and having their kids and grandkids over during the holidays and, being that they are here in the nicer months, having the ability to completely open the main living space to the outdoors,” Hazen explains.

For the exterior, the architecture was influenced by strict HOA guidelines that require single-story homes, specific setbacks and low-slope roofs. What might have felt like limitations instead informed a contextually sensitive design. “The challenge of designing with lower-than-normal heights actually created a very cozy-feeling home,” Carson says.

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The architecture never overwhelms the site or the neighborhood; instead, it honors the community’s scale while offering something fresh and modern. “Unlike many other areas of town, where smaller ranch-style homes are torn down and mega-homes built in their place, this neighborhood does not allow that,” Carson explains. He says there was an older, outdated home that was removed from the site, but this new home doesn’t yearn to be oversized. Instead, it matches the existing scale of its neighbors.

The exterior palette continues this discipline, featuring refined steel, stone and stucco — materials that not only provide durability in the desert climate but also carry a richness of texture and a patina that will evolve over time. Hazen extended that philosophy inside through layers of neutral tones and tactile surfaces. “It’s such a comfortable home,” she says. “It’s clean and minimal without any overwhelming details, which feels good in so many ways.”

The floor plan centers on an open core — the great room, kitchen, bar and dining space — flanked by private zones for the primary suite on one side and guest quarters on the other. The arrangement ensures intimacy while keeping the house connected and flowing. Daily convenience was also carefully considered, with the garage opening to a handy drop zone next to the primary suite. The route from the garage to the kitchen is short and direct, making bringing items in from the car easy.

One of the home’s defining features is the two-sided steel and glass bar that serves as a room divider, a triumph of collaboration between the architect, designer and artisans.

“We even designed it to have doors open on both the kitchen and bar sides so you could truly access it no matter which room you were in,” notes Hazen. “The steel and glass work, by Kevin Sullivan of Steel & Stone and Peter Hayes of Meltdown Glass, completely steals the show.”

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The interiors remain true to the idea of layered subtlety. In the kitchen, painted rift oak cabinetry allows the grain to remain visible beneath a soft putty finish, an intentional departure from the starkness (and trendiness) of traditional white. Flooring throughout is in a light oak, adding brightness underfoot, while natural stone in the primary bath introduces tactile richness. In the guest baths and the laundry space, more pragmatic materials ensure ease of upkeep.

For furnishings, “the clients had a few pieces they wanted to reuse, so those really set the tone for where we could take things.

Thankfully, they were beautiful items that blended seamlessly,” Hazen shares. Rugs sourced from David E. Adler Fine Rugs and additional custom furniture by Solido and Robert James Collection add to the textural narrative, further personalizing the interiors.

What makes the project most memorable for both the architect and designer is not any one feature, but the process itself.

“They are wonderful clients who trusted the process and the experience of the design team and allowed each of us to bring our own creativity,” Carson reflects. Hazen agrees: “We had such a great team on this project. That really does make the job so much more enjoyable and successful. And especially wonderful clients. They had opinions and ideas, but truly wanted the design team they hired to take the reins and create something beautiful.”

The completed home carries a reassuring ease, as though every line, surface and transition belongs exactly where it should.

Its strength lies in the way architecture and interiors speak the same language, each reinforcing the other without interruption.

What lingers is not only the beauty of the details but the sense of collaboration behind them. A team of owners, architects, designers and craftspeople trusted one another to create something lasting, and in doing so, shaped a home with character as enduring as the stone wall that anchors it.

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Help Is on the Line.

Support the 24/7 Teen Lifeline peer counseling suicide prevention hotline.

Donate at teenlifeline.org/giving-tues Donating to Teen Lifeline turns a moment of crisis into a conversation of hope.

Trained volunteers, ages 15-19, answer over 45,000 calls and texts to Teen Lifeline each year. Donors like you ensure someone is always there to pick up, listen and help.

On Giving Tuesday— or any day—your gift of ...

- $100 answers one text to the hotline - $250 answers one life-saving call - $500 funds one classroom workshop for teens

Teen Lifeline is a Qualifying Charitable Organization. You may be eligible to receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $938 ($470 if filing single) on your Arizona state income tax return by donating. Check with your tax adviser for additional information.

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Night

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Setting the

TABLE Three designers, three stunning tablescapes— inspired by the beauty of the holiday season.

By Nakayla Shakespeare Photography by Chris Loomis

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he holiday season is magical. Store shelves are filled with beautiful decorations and gifts to give, festive songs and hymns are sung by choirs, and joy seems to permeate the air. Perhaps the most meaningful gift of this time of year is the company we keep with loved ones. For many, the tradition of gathering around the table to enjoy a meal forged from the fruits of love and labor is practiced during the holidays. It’s a tradition I hold in high importance.

We wanted to celebrate that tradition by asking three talented interior designers to create exquisite holiday tablescapes. The goal was to inspire you, the reader, and to celebrate the beauty of coming together to enjoy a meal. Each designer implemented their personal flair, showcasing what the holidays look like for them through high-end design.

With such an ambitious idea, we needed an equally beautiful setting to house these designs. Joyce Lynch, realtor at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, was gracious enough to host us at her listing in Paradise Valley. The warmth of the home’s Tuscan architecture was the perfect setting for this occasion. We are truly grateful for the ICONIC hospitality.

So, get inspired, take in the beauty of design interpretation, and embrace this time of year, which unites us.

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Kristin Lane CEDARHURST HOME

For Kristin Lane, founder of Cedarhurst Home, dining al fresco during the holidays is a new luxury. “Coming from Portland, where it’s rainy and cold, our tablescapes have always been inside,” Lane says. “Getting to do an outdoor dining tablescape is so important to me and my family. I took inspiration from the desert for this design and named it “Laesta al fresca (holidays outside).”

Cactus greens, browns and neutrals complemented by the natural red jewel tones of the pomegranate showcase the colors of the desert terrain while also offering a subtle holiday feel. The overall setup complements the beauty of its surroundings.

Unexpected elements such as stacked books are also features of the table setting, proving that even items around the home can be used to embellish a display. “I feel like it’s easy to be overwhelmed at the thought of putting together a tablescape, but in reality, you can find things around your house to include, such as lamps or candles,” Lane says. “I think it helps to find inspiration from the decor you already have.”

Lane’s refined yet relaxed setting fosters light-hearted conversation and laughter around the table. Lane places immense value on setting the table for friends and family.

“I can’t think of anything more special than a dinner party with that extra touch of a tablescape,” she says. “Thank you to my incredible team for helping me bring this tablescape to life.”

LANE’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY MEMORY “My family always makes Eggs Benedict on Christmas morning. I used to do it with my mom and dad growing up, and now I have carried that tradition on with my two sons and husband.”

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Lisa Fontaine

LISA FONTAINE DESIGN STUDIO Lisa Fontaine has always valued curation and is most known for her ability to design a home that seamlessly showcases her client’s most valued possessions. She wanted to utilize this talent for her design. “For me, the tablescape had to reflect how I really feel about design,” Fontaine explains. “I wanted to balance old elements with modern elements.”

Her tablescape reflects this sentiment. A stunning floral display of yellow, red and green in a gold vase by Patricia Poto, owner of Wild Child Floral Design, anchors the design while drawing the eye in. From there, Fontaine included a mixture of vintage items, such as a Paris cafe’s napkin holders that date back to the 1800s, with modern items like glassware and other elements that can be purchased in her shop.

Fontaine’s inspiration came from the prominent designer, Georges Briard. “He was a designer from the ‘50s , ‘60s and ‘70s that I just adore,” Fontaine says. “I have followedhis work for some time now. He designed everything from plates to barware. When I was asked to do this, I knew I wanted to source some of his pieces.” Briard’s Vintage MCM Imperial Imari dinner and salad plates are featured in Fontaine’s design and inspired her color palette.

According to Fontaine, setting the stage for connection is the most important part of it. “My hope is that tablescapes encourage people to take inspiration and be thoughtful. The goal is to create something unique, personal and meaningful. It’s not about perfection, it’s about connection,” she says.

FONTAINE’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY MEMORY “I hosted a dinner party on my outdoor patio one year. It was one of those nights where the conversation and the bottle of wine were neverending. Those nights are everything to me. The connections and friendships are so important.”

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Maria Zambrano MARIA Z INTERIORS

Inspired by the holiday tune, “White Christmas,” Maria Zambrano, founder of Maria Z Interiors, created a contemporary tablescape with holiday essence. “That is one of my favorite Christmas songs,” she says. “When I listen to it, I think of cozying up by the fireplace with everybody gathered around.”

She utilized a white palette with gold accents. Large candles in glass candleholders add height to the table, while stone grape decor is the anchor. Leafy accents and forest-green napkins folded into trees add a hint of festivity. Glassware with gold rims adds to the overall grandeur of the space. The result is a clean, contemporary, inviting table promoting gathering and celebration.

Zambrano loves the immediate satisfaction she gets when designing tablescapes. “You don’t have to wait a month to create one,” she says. More importantly, she values the byproduct that tablescapes bring, friendship and connection. “When you share a meal with someone in your family, you are creating memories. We all live for good memories; they’re engraved into our brains,” she says.

Looking back on fond memories of Christmas in Argentina, Zambrano shares that the holidays looked different growing up there. “In Argentina, Christmas is in the summertime, so it has a totally different feel. We wouldn’t eat heavier foods, but we would still gather around the table to share a meal.”

ZAMBRANO’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY MEMORY “I love the memories of my family being in the same place at my grandmother’s house. We all sit around the table to talk, eat and laugh.”

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Photo by Ethan Cooper Photography. Project by Shearon Design Collective.

Celebrating

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Meet the people behind the beautiful landscapes we see in our beloved community.

By Nakayla Shakespeare

I think we can all agree that Arizona’s desert terrain is gorgeous. The beautiful outdoor landscapes we see around town, however, don’t just exist that way; they are meticulously curated by artisans of the outdoors, landscape designers who understand how to maximize the desert’s potential to create truly magical plantscapes. The outdoors not only enhances the beauty of our state, but it also fosters connections within our community.

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Jake Plocher DESERT FOOTHILLS LANDSCAPE

Desert Foothills Landscape has been contributing to the beauty of the community for more than 30 years. You may recognize their work when you drive into the entryways of some of the most high-end residential neighborhoods in the Valley, such as Estancia and Mirabel.

Their stunning outdoor designs are quickly gaining recognition.

“Our approach focuses on texture,” Jake Plocher, designer at Desert Foothills Landscape, says. “We really take an artistic view of the desert landscape and apply that to our projects.

The desert palette provides opportunities for us to implement sustainable plant color and design with consistent color and texture.”

Photos by Brian Goddard

Along with outstanding landscape design, Desert Foothills Landscape focuses on maintenance and integrating additional services under one roof. “We donated the plant material and install to the surrounding the Carefree Sundial, creating the famous two-acre Carefree Desert Gardens. This is our way of giving back and showing gratitude to an exceptional community that helped us grow our business from its inception.”

Enriching the community is the heart of Desert Foothills Landscape. “We take a lot of pride in designing for the community,” Plocher says. “We donated the plant material and installation for the surrounding area of the Carefree Sundial, creating the famous 2-acre Carefree Desert Gardens. This is our way of giving back and showing gratitude to an exceptional community that helped us grow our business from its inception.”

Plocher describes the work environment within the company as a family unit, where every worker contributes equal value to the project at hand. This positive dynamic results in the beautiful outdoor sanctuaries we see and love around our cities.

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Karen and Abel Lopez ENVISION WINDOWS AND DOORS

Envision Windows and Doors is a family-run business entirely rooted in Faith. Founder Abel Lopez established Envision Windows and Doors in 2022 with the vision of providing a greater future for his family and generations to come.

Portrait photo by Jacob Cruz. Project photos courtesy of Luxeview Systems.

“My journey started at the bottom,” Lopez explains. “I was prepping doors for many of the nation’s most luxurious door manufacturers. This is where I learned hands-on knowledge on product assembly and hardware functionality. From there, I started installing the doors I once prepped. Due to my past experience on door prepping, this was able to enhance my installation skills. During my installation season, I came face to face with builders, customers and architects, learning the ins-and-outs of luxury window and door fenestration.”

I strived for a sales position while at Sierra Pacific Windows, but the opportunity never came.

My wife and I prayed on our next steps and left our jobs at the same time. It was a leap of faith, but we had trust in our Lord and Savior, Jesus. That was how Envision Windows was started.

Since then, Envision has worked with various luxury window and door manufacturers in the Valley with one goal in mind: bring superior products and luxury service to their customers.

Envision Windows and Doors are now partners with Luxview Systems to bring premier windows and doors to the residents in the Valley. Envison was granted the opportunity to represent Luxview exclusively in Arizona. “Customer satisfaction is always first,” Lopez says.

“We understand that Luxview is a luxurious brand, but it also needs to come with high-end installation and service to match. Whether it’s on the design side or the service side, consistent attention to detail will always be number one. Because I am a man of Faith, and a man of my word, this consistency will carry out throughout our business.”

Besides providing a greater future for his family, Lopez says that giving back to his community gives his family purpose. “Now that we have established the business, our next thought is ‘How can we help people reach these same heights for themselves and their families?’ so we started Envision Ministries where we help people start businesses through a biblical perspective,” Lopez says.

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Phil Shearon SHEARON DESIGN COLLECTIVE

Phil Shearon founded the landscape design firm, Shearon Design Collective, seven years ago and has been providing stunning outdoor spaces for some of the most luxurious homes in the Valley.

With three generations of family ties in the Arizona home development industry, Shearon has taken note of the substantial growth of knowledge in landscape design. “Growing up in construction, there was a limited understanding of what plants you could use in the Valley.

Common plant availability was mostly regional native desert species, which really impacted the extent landscapes could be designed,” he explains. “Now, there is so much information readily available, and it has really expanded our capacity for a robust planting palette and further expands the designs we create today. Proper water management has also allowed us to tailor outdoor experiences for our clients.”

Photos by Ethan Cooper Photography

Shearon focuses on creating personal outdoor escapes for his clients. “Our goal is to be a collaborative force with our clients and deliver work that our team personally crafted with each client, ultimately elevating their outdoor living experience,” he says. One way this is achieved is by seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.

For Shearon, hiring their firm at the beginning of any new home build or remodel is key.

“Being brought on at the beginning of a project is always the best way to start any new project because it allows us to work closely with the architect, interior designer and contractor to create the best spaces possible,” he says. “The goal when collaborating as a part of the design/build team from day one is to create a home that invites you beyond the back door by creating a seamless indoor/outdoor living experience.”

Beyond the glamour of having an opulent outdoor space, the actual value of having a beautiful backyard comes from the memories made there. “Our main goal is to create remarkable spaces that are memorable,” he explains. “It’s about the experience your outdoor spaces create that really makes it home.”

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Jo Walia ARISTA STONES

Arista Stones is a family-owned and- operated business that started in 2001 when Harsh and Liliette Walia sought to provide people with premium stone products. Their dedication and passion persevered, with their daughters spearheading the family legacy of providing exquisite, globally sourced stone material to clients nationwide.

Arista Stones ensures premium quality marble, quartzite, travertine and other stone products for their clients. “We take the time to go to every quarry and hand-select the stone, literally. We have touched every stone we purchase. We are also there at every step of the process to make sure the stones are fissure- and crack-free, and that they book match. It’s those extra steps we take for our clients to make the process easier,” Jo Walia, Chief Marketing Officer of Arista Stones, says.

Photos courtesy of Arista Stones

With deeply rooted family ties, Walia says community is crucial to the business.

“Community means everything to us. We run our business like it’s our own little community within itself,” she notes. “We take care of our employees, who have been with us for at least five years, and we take care of the customers who walk through our doors. But we also take care of our community outwardly by running food drives during the holidays and donating to the fire and police departments that keep us safe.”

When it comes to outdoor spaces, beautiful stonework serves as a focal point, reminding us of the beauty of our planet. “Stone is nature’s artwork,” Walia says. “So when you implement it in your outdoor spaces, it’s not going to be something that people don’t take a second look at.”

Jo Walia and her sister, CEO Vidya Walia, work hard to enrich their community, whether by giving back or by providing exquisite stone products to some of the most beautiful homes and outdoor living spaces in the Valley.

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Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens I’m sure you’re familiar with the ICONIC outdoor furniture brand Brown Jordan, known for its modern, sleek designs. Did you know their sister brand also crafts high-end, clean outdoor kitchens? The premier brand, manufactured by Danver, has been ahead of the outdoor kitchen curve, producing beautiful designs for more than 20 years. They offer thousands of cabinet options with more than 50 color options and 8 door styles to choose from.

“It’s unbelievable the number of options there are to choose from,” Jeff Stone with Creative Living, says. “It’s as close as you can get to designing an interior kitchen outside.I think it’s really great that all of their years of conceptualizing and developing new ideas has given this brand such a timeless array of cabinet styles to choose from.”

Brown Jordan’s latest collection, CUBE, is a testament to the brand’s modern design style and marks the brand’s first collaboration with renowned global designer Luca Nichetto to create a new modular kitchen concept. Building on the success of Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens’ Elements line, CUBE introduces an architecturally inspired design that embraces its modularity as a “design language” by highlighting its modules through distinct shapes and contrasting colors. The result is a stunning and unexpected new line, flexible enough to provide solutions for small urban settings or to be expanded into more comprehensive outdoor entertaining spaces.

“In Arizona, especially the Scottsdale market, clients have been embracing all of the latest designs that really push the envelope as far as what’s possible for an outdoor kitchen,” Stone says. “That’s why Arizona clients have been gravitating towards the CUBE collection.”

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens’ commitment to quality is unwavering, allowing you to elevate your outdoor space with a fabulous outdoor kitchen in as little as eight weeks. When asked what sets them apart from other outdoor competitors, Stone’s answer was direct: “Quality, no doubt,” Stone says.

“The quality and innovative design of Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens make them stand out in this industry.”

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens - Flagship Dealer Arizona – Colorado – Wyoming Creative Living – 8801 N Central Ave Phoenix www.creativelivingaz.com

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A NIGHT AT THE

JUICE JOINT The holiday photoshoot that reimagines the Gatsby Era.

By Nakayla Shakespeare Photography by Mark Sacro

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his holiday season, we invite you to step back in time to the heyday of speakeasies, when indulging in a cocktail was taboo, but the thing to do, if you knew the right places. Feathers, furs and friskiness defined this time period. We wanted to convey a risqué ambiance that would mimic the feeling of going to a speakeasy during the holidays for a glamorous, secret soiree. To do this, we conducted this shoot at the popular Scottsdale speakeasy, Tell Your Friends, a location we feel perfectly encapsulates opulence and grandeur utilizing vintage fashion by the ICONIC Fashion by Robert Black.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renee Dee. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nakayla Shakespeare.

PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Sacro. HAIR & MAKEUP Melissa Evans. MODEL Shea, Ford Robert Black. LOCATION Tell Your Friends. WARDROBE Fashion

by Robert Black. ICONIC TEAM Amalie Rhebeck, Madeleine Perich.

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Louis Marino black dress via Fashion

by Robert Black. Bracelets via Fashion

by Robert Black. Scarlet House of Toi stiletto via Zang Toi. Jack McConnell hat via Fashion by Robert Black.

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EMPRESS OF THE BLUES

Bob Mackie gold dress via Fashion by Robert Black.

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THE BEES KNEES

Black sequin set via Fashion by Robert Black. Daniel Storto gloves via Fashion by Robert Black.

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DOLLED UP

Victor Costa black-and-white dress via Fashion by Robert Black. Crystal necklace via Fashion by Robert Black.

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SNAKE EYES

Louis Marino black dress via Fashion by Robert Black. Bracelets via Fashion by Robert Black.

Scarlet House of Toi stiletto via Zang Toi. Jack McConnell hat via Fashion by Robert Black.

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DAPPER DARLING

Brown mink coat via Fashion by Robert Black. Emerald necklace via Fashion by Robert Black.

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8BALL

Black sequin set via Fashion by Robert Black. Daniel Storto gloves via Fashion by Robert Black.

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full FOCUS The art and ambition of Jesse Katz’s Aperture Cellars.

By Fran Miller

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Photos courtesy of Aperture Cellars

ot every winemaker receives bespoke wine requests from Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel—or crafts custom bottlings for Tony Hawk, Von Miller, Ellen DeGeneres and the Lakers organization. But Jesse Katz isn’t your average vintner.

As founder of Aperture Cellars, the award-winning winery in Healdsburg, Calif., Jesse has quietly developed a reputation as the go-to winemaker for athletes, actors and high-profile entertainers. His polished, age-worthy wines now appear at celebrity weddings, star-studded galas and private dinners from Napa to New York. Yet, despite his high-profile clientele and multiple 100point scores, Jesse quickly redirects attention back to the vines and the deeper inspiration behind the bottle.

“Each wine and each client is different,” says Jesse. “Everything I do is custom. A wine I make for a wedding celebration compared to one that will be gifted after winning a Super Bowl, or made to raise money for a charity, all have a different intention and a time it will be enjoyed.”

That intentionality is part of what he hopes will make the wines meaningful not only in the moment, but “for decades to come.”

Founded in 2009, Aperture Cellars represents the culmination of Jesse’s far-reaching experiences and artistic upbringing. The son of acclaimed photographer Andy Katz, Jesse grew up traveling the world’s great wine regions, from Bordeaux to Mendoza, as his father captured vineyard life through a lens. Those formative adventures helped shape Jesse’s global palate and sparked his fascination with terroir, balance and sensory storytelling.

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That dual devotion to craft and composition is evident across the entire Aperture experience.

Each label features a photograph taken by Andy. Every wine is made with an eye toward structure and longevity. Even the winery’s stunning design—a soaring 24,000-square-foot production facility and adjoining 4,000-squarefoot hospitality center—is inspired by the physical aperture of a camera, with dramatic skylights and lens-like forms drawing natural light deep into the space.

“I think the story starts with the label but continues into the bottle,” Jesse notes. “Like any great collaboration or work of art, small, intentional details that unfold with time are the ones that grow on you and evoke a real connection.”

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The estate vineyard sits on 40 acres just outside downtown Healdsburg, on historic Ponzo Ranch land first planted in 1912. Acquired

by Jesse in 2016, it now forms the heart of Aperture’s portfolio, which includes Bordeauxstyle reds, single-vineyard cabernets, a barrel-fermented sauvignon blanc and a delicate new chenin blanc. Sourced from more than 200 acres of cool-climate sites across Sonoma, Aperture wines are defined by freshness, layered complexity and Jesse’s insistence on precision farming. His flagship cabernet sauvignon has earned some of the highest scores in Alexander Valley history—including the first perfect 100-point rating ever awarded to a cabernet from the region. The same goes for his malbec-focused label, Devil Proof, which holds the

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distinction of being the highest-rated California malbec among top critics.

Though much of Jesse’s technique comes from experience (he’s completed more than 25 harvests across the globe), his resume reads like a who’s who of elite winemaking. He trained at Château Pétrus in Bordeaux, Viña Cobos and Bodega Noemia in Argentina, and served on the winemaking teams at Napa Valley’s Screaming Eagle and Robert Foley. In 2010, he became the youngest head winemaker in the U.S. at Lancaster Estate, where he helped build the Roth winery from the ground up and grew the brand by more than 800 percent, all while earning consistent 90+ scores from Wine Advocate and inclusion on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list.

“I have not made the best wine of my career yet,” says Jesse. “I continue to obsess with fine-tuning my craft with every vintage … I think, and hope, that I get better each year.”

For him, progress is less about accolades and more about capturing “a sense of place and time in every bottle in the most expressive and focused way.”

Guests can experience Aperture wines firsthand at the estate’s tasting room, where Andy’s globe-spanning photography adds a visual throughline to the wine flights. Seated tastings are available by appointment, including the

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“I HAVE NOT MADE THE BEST WINE OF MY CAREER YET. I CONTINUE TO OBSESS WITH FINE-TUNING MY CRAFT WITH EVERY VINTAGE… I THINK, AND HOPE, THAT I GET BETTER EACH YEAR.”

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Soil Series Experience, which explores the full Aperture range, and the Site Series, which focuses on single-vineyard bottlings. A private tasting option allows for a more tailored exploration of limited releases in a floor-to-ceiling glass room overlooking the Russian River Valley. Jesse plans to expand the tastings further to include food pairings and collaborations with renowned Healdsburg chefs such as Kyle Connaughton (SingleThread), Dustin Valette (Valette) and Peter Seghesio (Journeyman Meat Co.) to deepen the guest experience through Sonoma’s broader culinary and creative culture.

The sense of connection extends beyond the glass. Jesse is a committed philanthropist, raising more than $7 million for charities and

non-profits through wine donations, custom experiences and fundraising auctions. He recently joined the board of SommFoundation, which supports education and mentorship in the wine and spirits industry.

For all the buzz around his celebrity collaborations and dozens of 100-point scores, Jesse remains rooted in the quiet rigor of winemaking. He’s more interested in soil maps than red carpets, and more likely to cite volcanic minerals than magazine mentions. Still, there’s something undeniably cinematic about his trajectory: a young winemaker shaped by world travels, grounded in Sonoma soil, and producing wines that command both attention and acclaim.

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Sunlit shores and jungle secrets showcase the two worlds of Belize.

By Fran Miller

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elize is a country of striking dualities, where vivid contrasts are not merely geographical, but experiential. Along the sundrenched shores of Ambergris Caye, powdery sands meet a shimmering Caribbean sea of infinite shades of blue, and time slows to the rhythm of the tide.

Yet, to experience Belize solely through the lens of its celebrated coastline would be to miss half its soul. Only a few hours inland, the jungle around San Ignacio hums with life. Dense, mysterious and steeped in ancient lore, its emerald canopy shelters rivers, caves and the enduring footprint of the Maya. When travelers traverse the sea and jungle, they encounter the country’s true, multifaceted beauty.

The rewards are richest for travelers willing to embrace both the polished and the raw, the familiar and the unknown. Those who journey across its varied landscapes will find not just a vacation but a deeper, more enduring connection to nature, culture and a way of life that feels refreshingly real.

Belize’s history is as rich and layered as its landscapes. Long before European contact, the region was a thriving center of the ancient Maya civilization, home to grand cities, intricate temples and complex societies. Today, Belize is a multicultural nation where Maya, Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna and other influences are woven into a unique national identity.

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While Belize stuns with its natural beauty and warm hospitality, visitors will notice it remains a developing nation. It is important to approach this reality with understanding rather than judgment. Tourism plays a vital role in the country’s economy, and travelers are warmly welcomed, often with an earnest desire to meet standards of comfort and service that mirror those of more affluent nations. Yet to truly appreciate Belize is to embrace it on its own terms—to recognize that luxury here is not defined by perfection, but by authenticity, kindness and the privilege of being a guest in a country that shares its treasures with sincerity and heart.

STAY, DINE AND PLAY ALONG THE COASTLINE

TOP: Photo courtesy of Searious Adventures. BOTTOM: Photo courtesy of Alaia Belize.

Consider starting with a water-based stay on Ambergris Caye at Alaia Belize, offering immediate access to the brilliant turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Choose from Tower rooms that offer panoramic views, or Bungalow suites directly upon the sand. The resort’s K’in Spa & Wellness Center provides top-rate massages, and several dining and imbibing venues offer enough options that you might never leave the property.

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LEFT: Photo by Fran Miller. RIGHT: Photo courtesy of Travel Belize.

But that would be a shame, as nearby San Pedro bustles with unmatched authenticity.

The town remains refreshingly unsanitized: a grid of sandy streets, local markets and seafront shacks serving the freshest seafood and crafted cocktails with minimal pretense.

Sun-washed facades, open-air markets, and the constant buzz of conversation drift from beach bars and cafes, such as at Blue Water Grill.

Long a favorite among visitors and locals, this casual eatery is directly on the beach, offering a lively atmosphere where fresh seafood is the undisputed star. The menu leans into the sea’s bounty—tender lobster, rich conch fritters and daily catches—all best enjoyed with an ocean breeze and a local Belikin beer. For something more refined,

check out the newly opened Gonzalo and The Princess, just steps from Alaia. One of Ambergris Caye’s finest dining establishments, this intimate and romantic spot features impeccable service and a menu that satisfies the most discerning palates. Try the Flaming Filet Mignon and have your camera ready for the Instagrammable presentation.

Days in Ambergris Caye are best spent snorkeling along the vibrant barrier reef or sailing under vast open skies. Few experiences capture the essence of Belize’s coastline quite like a sunset catamaran cruise with Searious Adventures. Setting out from San Pedro in the golden hours of late afternoon, allow your hosts to set the tone with a curated playlist heavy on reggae classics,

crafted cocktails with a generous hand, and a simple but delicious dinner as you glide across calm waters.

For more of an adrenaline rush, parasailing with Belize Parasail Plus is an exhilarating way to see Ambergris Caye from a breathtaking perspective. Tethered safely to a brightly colored sail, you ascend gently into the sky, where a panorama of crystalline waters, coral reefs and distant cayes stretches beneath. And finally, a flight over the Great Blue Hole is an essential Belizean adventure.

Departing from the small airport in San Pedro, a handful of charter companies offer scenic flights that circle this world-famous wonder—a reminder of nature’s raw, unpolished grandeur.

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Heading inland near San Ignacio, Ka’ana Resort offers an entirely different immersion—one where the lush interior of Belize takes center stage. Set amidst tropical gardens and backed by thick jungle, this Small Luxury Hotel of the World is intimate (just 17 guest accommodations) and quietly luxurious. Thoughtful details include artisan textiles, locally sourced cuisine and curated excursions deeply rooted in Belizean culture.

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dinner under a canopy of stars. Attentive service (you will be called by name throughout your stay) makes Ka’ana extra special.

The culinary offerings at Ka’ana’s La Ceiba Restaurant are regionally inspired and seasonally curated with fresh ingredients sourced directly from Ka’ana’s two-acre organic garden and local farms. Hope that your stay takes place during one of the occasional BBQ Nights, where you’ll find tables set under a canopy of twinkling string lights, scattered across a grassy clearing. Crafted mojitos complement a full buffet, and the vibe—enhanced by a soundtrack of reggae covers—captures everything that makes Ka’ana ICONIC.

Off property, a visit to Benny’s Kitchen is a must. This beloved institution is celebrated for its traditional Belizean fare—soulful dishes like tender stewed chicken served with coconut rice and savory beans, or rich beef or pork pibil slow-cooked in banana leaves. A meal here feels as much a cultural experience as a culinary one. For a graceful interlude in the heart of San Ignacio, Wine Smith offers an unexpected discovery. Owned by Belizean-born Joseph Smith, a winemaker who now crafts wines in California, the tasting room is a cozy gathering place where guests can sample Smith’s portfolio of labels and varietals. Order an abundant charcuterie board to accompany the wines—an artful spread of cured meats,

BOTTOM LEFT: Photo courtesy of Travel Belize. RIGHT: Photo by Stephanie Klepacki.

STAY, DINE AND PLAY IN THE JUNGLE

artisanal cheeses, fresh fruits and housemade accompaniments. Friendly service and quiet sophistication make this an ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventures.

Days in the jungle are meant for exploration, and Xunantunich is one of the country’s most ICONIC and accessible Maya archaeological sites. This ancient city rises dramatically above the surrounding jungle, and its centerpiece—the towering El Castillo pyramid—offers sweeping views across the Mopan River and even into neighboring Guatemala. Schedule a guided tour to provide insight into the rituals, politics and daily life of the Maya who once thrived here.

TOP: Photo courtesy of Travel Belize. BOTTOM: Photo courtesy of Ka’ana.

For a truly personal souvenir, few experiences rival painting alongside celebrated Belizean artist Walter Castillo at his colorful home studio. Even novice painters find themselves swept into the joyful act of creation. Under Castillo’s gentle guidance, you leave not just with a painting but a memory—a vibrant, heartfelt keepsake in your hand that captures a piece of Belizean spirit.

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James Beard Award-winning Chef Christopher Gross shares ICONIC appetizers to enjoy this holiday season.

n Appétit

By Masada Siegel

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hef Christopher Gross is the type of person you want as a guest at your holiday party.

The James Beard Award winner has cooked for three U.S. presidents and worked alongside culinary legends like Jacques Pépin, Julia Child and Martha Stewart. He’s a world traveler, charismatic and has plenty of great stories.

For those fortunate enough to secure his services as a private chef, it’s the ultimate luxury. For the rest of us, Chef Gross offers something equally valuable: the secrets to hosting a holiday dinner party, along with tips and tricks for elevating your cooking by making appetizers with ease.

Chef Gross’s culinary journey spans continents as he has trained in London and Paris. These influences have infused his cooking with a cosmopolitan flair that sets him apart in America’s culinary landscape.

Christopher’s restaurant at the Wrigley Mansion earned a 2022 James Beard Award for Outstanding Chef. It was also awarded the Arizona Republic’s five-star rating as Phoenix’s most innovative and enticing dining experience for its sumptuous tasting menu.

Gross believes food is a medium for connecting with people and for creating a spectacular dinner party experience.

The host, he notes, should focus on the personal touch.

One of the best ways to do this is to be organized and prepared. Chef Gross stressed the importance of doing as much as possible before your holiday party so that you can focus on your guests.

“You can precook everything because at most parties, the food is room temperature,” Gross points out. “There are so many easy recipes for parties, such as brioche sliders, which can be made ahead of time and served on a nice platter with caviar.”

Chef Gross is a massive fan of the thermal circulator.

This electric device heats and circulates water in a container to maintain a precise and consistent temperature, resulting in a simplified cooking experience.

“You never want to be sweating in the kitchen before your guests arrive,” he says. “One way to avoid this is by using the thermal circulator. The one I like is the Joule Turbo Sous Vide. It is the way to cook filets easily and efficiently.”

The Joule Turbo Sous Vide is used by submerging vacuum-sealed food in a temperature-controlled water bath, which results in tender, consistently cooked and flavorful results without overcooking.

For those who are hosting for the first time, Gross advises, “Be patient, and write out the planning of everything so you are organized. Most importantly, taste everything. No one wants to sit down at the dinner table and wonder why people aren’t smiling when they have the first bite of their meal.”

Holiday entertaining requires effort, so Chef Gross leaves hosts with this essential advice: “Taste and adjust your seasoning, give yourself extra time so you’re not rushed, and invest in the best ingredients you can afford.

Those three things will elevate any dish.”

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EASY VOL -AU -VENT PUFF PASTRY BITES WITH WHIPPED GOAT CHEESE These little golden puff pastry shells — known in France as vol-au-vents — are airy, crisp, and make the perfect hors d’oeuvres. They look impressive, yet they’re incredibly simple to make at home. Filled with whipped goat cheese and a drizzle of honey or herbs, they strike that balance between savory and elegant that always disappears fast at parties.

INGREDIENTS

1 package frozen puff pastry sheets 1 egg (beaten) 6 ounces soft goat cheese 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk Honey (for garnishing, optional) 1 pinch salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS

Let the puff pastry thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, or on the counter for about 30 to 40 minutes, until it’s pliable but still cold.

CHEF’S TIP “Bake the shells ahead and keep them in an airtight container for up to two days. Just rewarm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to crisp them up before filling. For a festive touch, top with roasted red pepper, a sprig of thyme, or a drop of fig jam.”

Lightly flour your surface and lay the pastry sheet down.

Use a 1½–2-inch (4–5 cm) round cutter to cut circles. For vol-au-vent shells: cut half of the circles whole and cut a smaller hole in the center of the other half (these are the “rings”).

Place a “ring” on top of each full circle, using a little egg wash to help them stick.

Brush the tops (not edges) with egg wash for a golden finish.

Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Don’t open the oven for the first 10 minutes — that’s when the magic puff happens.

Let cool slightly. If the center’s puff is too high, gently press them down with a spoon to create a cavity.

Fill with whipped goat cheese (see below).

In a small bowl, whisk or beat together: 6 ounces goat cheese 2 tablespoons cream or milk OPTIONAL: drizzle of honey or pinch of herbs (thyme, chive, or rosemary) Mix until light and fluffy. Spoon or pipe into the pastry shells just before serving.

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Photo by Madeleine Perich

WHIPPED GOAT CHEESE FILLING

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CREAMY FRENCH POTATO GRATIN (GRATIN DAUPHINOIS) There’s a reason the French have been making this dish for centuries. Thin layers of tender potatoes slowly baked in cream and butter until golden and soft — it’s rich, comforting and quietly elegant. The kind of side that turns a simple roast into a Sunday feast.

INGREDIENTS

4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced ⅛ inch thick 2 cups heavy cream 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 2 cloves garlic, minced (or rubbed inside the dish) Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional but classic) Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

FROM THE CHEF

Lightly butter a small baking dish or casserole. Rub the inside with a cut clove of garlic for a delicate aroma.

“This gratin is pure comfort — butter, cream, and potatoes doing what they do best. It’s a dish that makes people lean in, take a slow bite and smile. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a holiday table, it never fails.”

Gently pour the cream over the potatoes until just covered.

Arrange half of the potatoes evenly in the dish. Season with salt, pepper and a touch of nutmeg. Dot with half the butter. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and butter.

Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.

Let it sit for five to 10 minutes before serving so the cream thickens slightly and the flavors settle.

CHEF’S TIPS

Warm the cream gently with garlic and a pinch of nutmeg before pouring it over the potatoes for a deeper flavor.

Sprinkle a little grated Gruyère or Parmesan in the last 10 minutes for a bubbling, caramelized top.

Photo by Madeleine Perich

Use a mandoline or steady hand for evenly thin slices — it ensures even cooking and that signature silky texture.

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Echoes of

DECO Interior designer Jeffrey Maynard casts an exuberant spell on a Dana Point residence.

By Nora Burba Trulsson Photography by Hugo Landa

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nvision a new home with ocean views in Southern California, and a certain interior comes to mind— sun-bleached finishes, breezy furnishings and minimal window treatments to capture watery vistas. In other words, pale hues and plenty of daylight.

Point residence. “It was finished with a pretty contemporary interior.” However, the buyers—a couple who entertain a lot and enjoy hosting fundraisers—specifically asked for an Art Deco interior.

For a recent home refresh, Newport Beach interior designer Jeffrey Maynard went the polar opposite. At the clients’ behest, he transformed a beige-and-contemporary residence into something moody, intimate, dark and dazzling—a setting where the indoor-outdoor living trope does not apply—a place where the owners love to live and entertain inside.

The obstacle, says Maynard, was creating that look in the house without ripping out the entire interior and starting over.

The designer mulled the possibility. “The challenge was to do ‘moody’ in a voluminous house with big windows,” he explains. Working with the home’s original architect, Chris Light, and builder, Russ Schwinn, the interior designer opted to keep much of the home’s original cabinetry and backgrounds, layering in elements to create the new look.

“This was built as a spec,” says Maynard of the 7,400-square-foot, two-story Dana

“Because of the home’s contemporary lines, we leaned into Art Moderne a bit

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more than actual Art Deco,” Maynard notes. “I was inspired by old-school Miami Beach buildings and the black, green and gold of the Carbide & Carbon building in Chicago,” he says, referencing the tower on Michigan Avenue designed in the 1920s by the Burnham Brothers.

Maynard toned down the light in the rooms by using a dark, graphite-hued plaster on most walls and ceilings, then dimmed the glow of pale floors on the first level with deeply toned and patterned area rugs.

Several rooms were also clad in rich wood paneling, creating warm and inviting spots to gather or relax.

Maynard added drama to the great room’s existing bar with a polished, stainless steel wine bar that reaches up to the mezzanine level. He also recast the mezzanine level’s bar with a backdrop that includes onyx and polished brass bars in the shape of a sun.

New fluted wood columns, interspersed with patterned brass insets, add to the Deco/ Moderne look of the rooms, as do Maynard’s designs for new brass and glass light fixtures.

The interior’s piéces de résistance are a wall mural for the great room and a circular ceiling mural for the mezzanine’s lounge.

The artworks, explains Maynard, are custom Deco-influenced designs inspired by the homeowners’ interests and the ocean setting, and were created by Atelier de Ricou, a French studio known for art and architectural restoration and the creation of new works.

“The pieces for this house were painted on canvas in France,” Maynard says, “Then they were installed, finished and waxed here on site. It was a great process, and we worked with the studio on the color palette and themes.”

With the backdrops in place, Maynard suggested furnishings, textiles, accessories and lighting that captured the exuberant 1920s and 1930s design era. In the great room, the interior designer channeled Vladimir Kagan in the custom design of a sinuous backto-back sofa, placed to face a piano in one direction and some armchairs on the other side. Done in a deep aquamarine velvet

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fabric, the sofa adds a sense of intimacy to the room’s two-story volume, which is overlooked by the mezzanine lounge. A two-inch pile silk rug in a shade of plum underscores the room’s seating area. “The rug has a lot of ‘crush’ to it, so you see variations in the color,” Maynard points out.

For the dining room, the designer suggested a straw marquetry table, inlaid with a mother-of-pearl image of a panther, which is reflected in the mirrored tray ceiling. The vintage theme is complemented by Sapele paneling, a Paul Ferrante crystal palm leaf chandelier and a Macassar ebony buffet.

In the primary suite, a custom scalloped headboard made of burnished velvet and mahogany crowns the bedroom, where walls are clad in a textured gold covering. Sleep is encouraged by drawing the heavy silk draperies. In the primary bath, a custom silver and gold-leaf mirror, set against a wall clad in Cipollino Rosso marble, catches the eye.

Maynard also lent his touch to other rooms.

In the office, a Vladimir Kagan desk holds court against walls clad in mahogany inset with polished stainless steel bands. In the sewing room, a custom cabinetry system stylishly stores supplies for the wife’s crafts.

And in the entry, he took a sculpture by Dylan Lewis, a South African artist, that the owners found during a trip and used it as a base for a glass-topped table.

“I don’t always follow the current trends,” says Maynard, summarizing his work on the project. “These homeowners were open to ideas and willing to have their [design] boundaries pushed. The focus of this house is to make you want to be inside.”

INTERIOR DESIGN Maynard Design + Interiors. ARCHITECT C.J. Light & Associates. BUILDER Russ Schwinn Associates. MURALS Atelier de Ricou.

PHOTOGRAPHY Hugo Landa Photography.

CABINETRY European Wood Works.

FINISHING Halaby. STONE Unique Stone Imports. CUSTOM SOFAS Jouffre. DINING TABLE Par Excellence.

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The

Beauty of

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ONA Three days isn’t enough for all this ICONIC city has to offer.

By Renee Dee ICONICLIFE.COM

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Focusing on the last three extraordinary days of my trip (and three days were not enough to savor this city), I made the Nobu Hotel Barcelona my home—a haven of elevated minimalism perched high above the Catalan capital. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing panoramic views that stretched toward the shimmering Mediterranean sea, this hotel became the elegant base for my deep dive into the soul of the city.

Nobu’s signature approach of refined service and quiet luxury set the perfect tone for the trip.

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This stay also coincided with Nobu Barcelona’s exciting new partnership with Trent, the Barcelona-based fashion rental platform redefining sustainable luxury. With just a quick QR scan in my suite, I could browse beautifully curated, high-end pieces from independent designers and have them delivered within the hour. I really should have taken this more into consideration when over-packing for my trip!

It’s important to dress stylishly on property with its elegant international guests, whether for rooftop cocktails on the highest terrace in Barcelona or dinner at Nobu’s ICONIC sushi bar overlooking the Spanish skyline.

I really appreciate companies that work to do better for our planet, and Nobu has made respectable strides. In March 2025, the hotel earned the prestigious BREEAM “Excellent” certification with a score of 78.79 percent, making it Spain’s highest-rated BREEAM hotel. This globally respected sustainability standard recognizes the hotel’s commitment to energy efficiency, health and well-being through extensive

renovations and smart building systems. Plus, 78 percent of procurement is now sourced from local Catalan suppliers and 93 percent from Spanish suppliers. Bravo.

The true essence of my stay was a pilgrimage through Barcelona’s architectural heart, led by a private guide, Anna, who brought the story of Antoni Gaudí vividly to life.

Over two days, we traced his genius across the city—past undulating façades, intricate wrought-iron balconies and interiors that felt less designed than grown. We explored his remarkable residences, apartments and a restaurant, each one infused with his organic forms and vibrant ceramic mosaics that seemed to pulse with movement.

Our architectural journey began with Casa Batlló, Gaudí’s fantastical reinterpretation of a bourgeois home on Passeig de Gràcia, where its undulating façade, shimmering mosaics and bone-like balconies make it feel alive. Just a few blocks away, Casa Milà, better known as La Pedrera, revealed its

Photo courtesy of Nobu Hotel Barcelona

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love visiting the ICONIC cities of the world. I traveled to Spain this summer for a friend’s birthday celebration and extended my trip to enjoy some of the ICONIC sites of Spain. The trip started in Ronda and Marbella, and I added stops in Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona, to which I embarked on a massive train journey. My theme was to savor the historical sites, the local food and the ICONIC landmarks of these cities.

sculpted stone exterior and wrought-iron balconies—an architectural wave frozen in time.

Photo by Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

We ventured to the Palau Güell, Gaudí’s early masterpiece near La Rambla, where his genius for light, ironwork and space was evident in the elegant urban palace designed for his patron, Eusebi Güell. And, of course, we wandered through the dreamlike landscape of Park Güell. This public park feels more like stepping into a storybook, with its serpentine benches, colorful ceramic mosaics and sweeping views over Barcelona.

Gaudí’s influence extends beyond buildings; his distinctive work is also celebrated through performances at the Palau de la Música Catalana, a UNESCO World Heritage concert hall where his contemporaries in the Modernisme movement flourished, and where his architectural language still resonates as part of Barcelona’s cultural stage.

The journey culminated at La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s magnum opus and, ICONICLIFE.COM

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without question, the most breathtaking work of architecture I have ever encountered. Approaching it feels almost reverent.

Its towers rise like a forest of stone, each sculpted spire telling a biblical story. Inside, the scale is transcendent—the nave ceiling soars nearly 150 feet, its vaults supported by branching columns designed to mimic trees.

As sunlight streams through the kaleidoscope of stained-glass windows, the entire interior becomes a living canvas of shifting colors, evoking both a cathedral and an enchanted woodland.

Gaudí, a deeply spiritual man, determined the height of the tallest tower—the Tower of Jesus Christ, still under construction—to be 170 meters, just one meter shorter than Montjuïc, Barcelona’s highest natural point.

He believed no human creation should surpass the work of God, a poetic testament to his humility and vision. Even after more than a century, the basilica remains a work in progress, a living monument to devotion, innovation, and the blending of the divine with the natural world.

I know Gaudi’s work is highly admired by leading Arizona architect Mark Candelaria, and I couldn’t stop myself from reaching out while I was in the cathedral. “How did they build this?” was my repetitive question. It’s simply mind-boggling.

We learned about the history of Jamón Ibérico, whose birthplace lies in the Dehesa, the oak-studded pastures of southwestern Spain. Here, in regions like Extremadura, Salamanca and Andalusia, Iberian pigs roam freely, feasting on acorns that infuse the ham with its nutty depth and silky texture.

Among these regions, the town of Jabugo in Andalusia is often referred to as the spiritual home of Jamón Ibérico, with its famed Denominación de Origen Protegida (protected designation of origin) ensuring quality as revered as that of Champagne in France.

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Photo courtesy of Nobu Hotel Barcelona

Between these architectural marvels, we also experienced another Spanish art form: Jamón Ibérico. We visited four of Barcelona’s top jamonerías, savoring the nuanced flavors of this national treasure— nutty, silky, deeply savory. Each slice told its own story, the result of centuries-old techniques and the meticulous care of artisans.

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TOP: Photo courtesy of Nobu Hotel Barcelona. BOTTOM: PhotoCG70 / Shutterstock.com.

Jamming on Jamon JAMONARIUM

Passeig de Sant Joan 181, Gràcia Known for more than 25 years of experience and a strong selection of Spanish and Iberian gourmet products.

MONIBERIC

Carrer de Mallorca 160, L’Eixample

RESERVA IBÉRICA

Rambla de Catalunya 61, Eixample A gourmet ham boutique also located inside La Boquería market, focused solely on topquality Iberian ham.

To taste jamón here was to savor not just flavor, but centuries of tradition and terroir.

Carrer d’Europa 23, Les Corts

Because I love walking on trips so much, I asked ChatGPT to put together a two-day walking tour that included the top four jamonarias interspersed throughout our architectural tour. It was an excellent way to see a lot efficiently.

Specializes in sausages and hams, with two locations including this one in Les Corts.

On my final night, I concluded our journey most unforgettably—with a tasting menu at Cinc Sentits, the acclaimed

JAMÓN JAMÓN

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two-Michelin-star restaurant helmed by Chef Jordi Artal. The experience was not merely a meal; it was a narrative. Each course traced the arc of the chef ’s culinary journey, rooted in recipes and vegetables from his family’s farm. From the first delicate amuse-bouche to the final, elegant dessert, the menu unfolded like chapters of a personal story—intimate, expressive and deeply tied to place.

The evening began with a welcome snack served in an intimate anteroom, where we

Photo courtesy of Nobu Hotel Barcelona

A family-run shop with more than 40 years of tradition and a wide range of Iberian hams.

Photo courtesy of Nobu Hotel Barcelona

stood around a sculpted tree-trunk table as the culinary team set the stage with a narrative about Chef Jordi Artal’s childhood in Catalonia and the family traditions that shaped his cuisine. From there, we were led into the dining room for an 11-course tasting menu that unfolded like a beautifully composed memoir in flavors. Each dish offered a glimpse into the landscape and seasons of Spain—oysters crowned with caviar, delicate scallops kissed with Jamón Ibérico and turbot layered with earthy porcini mushrooms.

A refined partridge course paid homage to rustic game traditions, while vibrant citrus, saffron and violet desserts brought a fragrant crescendo to the experience. One of the most memorable moments was the signature “Cinc Sentits shot,” a whimsical blend of maple syrup, cava sabayon, sea salt and fresh cream—a single sip designed to awaken all five senses. Every course was a masterclass in balance, restraint and storytelling, capturing the spirit of modern Catalan cuisine with elegance and emotion.

The service was restrained and refined and spoiler alert…the napkin folding that happens when one leaves the table is a performance in itself.

As I departed Barcelona, I carried with me not just memories but a profound sense of inspiration. My stay at Nobu Hotel Barcelona was the luxurious thread that connected architecture, cuisine, fashion and culture into one seamless, unforgettable tapestry.

Barcelona revealed itself as a city where creativity and innovation are celebrated.

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ICONIC

The Art of Après

By Amalie Rhebeck

T

he Little Nell has been the hotspot of aprés-ski in Aspen for decades. The ICONIC hotel, nestled against Aspen Mountain, has been a winter escape for the wealthy and glamorous since it opened its doors in 1989. Still the only place with ski-in and ski-out access to the mountain, it stands as a beacon of the true Aspen experience that visitors from around the world travel to.

When it comes to luxe aprés-ski, guests don’t need to travel far.

The Wine Bar at The Little Nell, formerly Chair 9, is a cozy retreat offering award-winning sips and quality company. Guests come to unwind, socialize and enjoy the nightly DJ who spins music and curates a laid-back vibe.

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The Nest, tucked away on the patio of the hotel’s elevated Element 47 restaurant, is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor aprés.

With fire pits to accompany outdoor seating, it’s easy to stay warm and enjoy the stunning Aspen views— cocktail in hand.

Arguably, the most ICONIC dining experience still steeped in the glamorous traditions of aprés is The Little Nell’s Ajax Tavern.

The relaxed environment, friendly atmosphere and hearty meals are a welcome comfort after a long day on the slopes.

In an age of fast-paced living, The Little Nell remains a timeless getaway where the lavish and sophisticated spirit of aprés lives on.

Top left photo by Jeremy Swanson. Top right photo by Shawn O‘Connor.

At The Little Nell, après-ski isn’t just a pastime, it’s a tradition of indulgence, elegance and effortless mountain glamour.

(602) 908-7130 • 3219 E. Camelback Rd., #191, Phoenix, AZ, 85018 • BuildLivingStone.com •

@livingstonebuilders