Southbay - February/March 2017

TH E

ARTS ISSUE

OURSOU T HBAY.COM

SIX DOLLARS

FEB/MAR 2017

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

WHERE WE LIVE 30 Q&A

42 Arts

Clark Dinnison

32 Media

La La Land

Amadea Bailey

45 Style File

Imaginative Interiors

34 Community

46 Weekender

Guitar Foundation

36 By the Numbers

Valentine’s Day

38 Traditions

My Sweet Dumpling

40 Palate

42

Andaz Scottsdale

48 Datebook

South Bay Event Calendar

51 Seen

Who’s Who Around Town

21 Square Bar + Kitchen

46

38

Also ...

94

Profiles

Top Real Estate Agents

116 Profiles

Top Mortgage Brokers On the Cover

Well-worked paintbrushes at Amadea Bailey’s studio.

Photographed by Monica Orozco

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017, SOUTHBAY

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

FEATURES 62

Starting From Scratch

A couple starts anew and creates an art-filled dream home on a walk street in Manhattan Beach layered with handselected pieces that make a big statement.

72 Art Advancement

From buying your first piece of art to cultivating a collection, the gathering process is as much about the maturation and progression of the buyer as it is about the art.

78 California Dreamin’

Featuring three young local women, music band Bahari hits the road and the airwaves with their beach-inspired sound.

82

Fly Zone

In a giant Smoky Hollow warehouse, a Palos Verdes native and his business partner transform retired aircraft into museumworthy, functional and artful furniture and accessories, while carefully preserving the past.

89

Artistic Amsterdam

A masterfully re-designed hotel highlights an artful itinerary in Holland’s eclectic capital.

62 72 78

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

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Jared Sayers

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MARKETING & OPERATIONS Partner/Brand Publisher | Emily Stewart Partner/Managing Director, Media & Analytics | Warren Schaffer Brand Publisher | Hannah Lee Associate Brand Publisher | Cherice Tatum Director of Digital | Charles Simmons Director of Film & Video | Bryce Lowe-White Art Director | Angela Akers Operations Manager | Allison Jeackjuntra Marketing Manager | Rachel Gotko Marketing Manager | Danielle Price Accounting | Janet De La Cruz No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from Moon Tide Media, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any Moon Tide Media, LLC publication become the property of Moon Tide Media, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit.

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017, SOUTHBAY

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Brushes With Greatness

I

’m going on the record: The South Bay is home to an energetic, robust and formidable art scene. I’m not talking Venice or West Hollywood or Downtown LA. I’m talking the Beach Cities—from smoky El Segundo to the panoramic Peninsula. We may have a reputation for sand and surf, but arts and culture have been an influential part of our identity for decades.

The Lighthouse, recently featured in the award-winning film La La Land, was the epicenter for West Coast jazz post-WWII. The Beach Boys grew up in nearby Hawthorne and immortalized our local surf culture in their pop hits throughout the ‘60s. Contemporary artist Ray Pettibon created the iconic logo for Black Flag, a fixture of the South Bay ‘70s punk scene that would later include Pennywise, among many others.

A new era of art appreciation emerges as current residents make their own mark.

Bo Bridges has been shooting from Manhattan Beach for more than a decade, gracing many a local wall and even a few of our covers. Homeira and Arnold Goldstein are long-time patrons of the arts, fostering their own collection and bringing additional ones to ARTS Manhattan.

The recently opened El Segundo Museum of Art (ESMoA) emboldens a flourishing Main Street that also enjoys regular art walks in the summer months. On the Peninsula, the Palos Verdes Art Center’s exhibitions and programs continue to excite and engage, while The Norris Center continues a long tradition of performance excellence.

And these are just highlights.

In this issue, we take a look at some additional artistic individuals—some familiar and others brand new. From music curators and clever craftsmen to painters and pop stars, they are each giving it their all and putting the South Bay on the map.

I encourage you to check them out and even show them some support. As someone who spent many years fostering a creative career, I know it takes hard work and guts to make a good living in the arts. But we do it because we love it. And in uncertain times, we can certainly use more of their effort and expression.

Darren Elms

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SOUTHBAY, FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

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CONTRIBUTORS

- Established 1997 -

Michelle Villas ART DIRECTOR

After 16 years as an art director in New York, Michelle loaded up the truck and moved to the South Bay. A true typophile, she carries her obsession with fonts into every project. Michelle is an avid camper and is making her way through national parks from Maine to Alaska.

Monica Orozco PHOTOGRAPHER “The New Landscape” and “The Coastal Commission”

Filled with passion, Monica’s known for capturing quirky, dark, sexy images, especially those taken in her hometown of Los Angeles.

Her work has been shown around the world, including New York, London and Berlin, and has been published online and in numerous magazines including Anthem, Spin, TimeOut London, Interview, Swindle, Whitehot, Los Angeles Times, NBC, KPCC, JPG, ARTINFO and ForYourArt. demonicaphoto.com

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Jeff is an advertising and editorial photographer who lives in Manhattan Beach. “I love living and shooting in the South Bay with all the diversity it has in people and their activities,” he says. “One day it’s in the ocean shooting surfing, and the next it’s cowboys roping cattle. There aren’t too many places that provide that kind of variety and visual eye candy.” jeffberting.com

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27

WHERE WE LIVE

Fresh Air Noon Pacific’s Clark Dinnison puts his own spin on your daily soundtrack.

WHERE WE LIVE | Q&A

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Q&A | WHERE WE LIVE

The Coastal Commission Noon Pacific wants to be the beachside soundtrack to your life.

WRITTEN BY

RICH THOMAS

| PHOTOGRAPHED BY MONICA

Keeping up with new music is a fulltime job. That’s why Clark Dinnison excavates the internet to compile and deliver new mixes straight to your inbox every Monday at noon PST. We joined him at his studio for a behindthe-scenes listen to the creation of the ultimate playlist.

How do you curate the 10 tracks that go on any given mix? Even though there’s a distinct Noon Pacific sound, there’s a lot of genre variation.

“There could be a Kanye track, the next one could be from James Vincent McMorrow, and the next one is someone you’ve never heard of. I think that’s important. It’s subjective, of course, because it’s what I’m choosing, but it also says, “This track is on par with Kanye, so at least give it a listen.” I think the problem with blogs is that it’s someone’s voice writing a subjective review. Just because you read some text, you might not press play— which I don’t think is fair.”

oursouthbay.com

OROZCO

What influenced your aesthetic?

“My dad had an old record player in the basement, and me and my brothers’ first memory is of The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album. That has been the standalone record that’s influenced me, but I grew up discovering new artists. My brothers would always share music, whether it was making mix tapes on cassette or burning CDs. I wanted to translate those tangible things to digital.”

How does the South Bay come into play?

“I’d moved down to California from Washington, and part of that move was inspired by surf culture and a love for water. So I moved into this spot in Hermosa down on 24th Street. There was a view of the ocean, and I could just sit there and listen to music. At the time I was working for a tech company and learning to code websites. One day I was making a playlist on Spotify or something and trying to come up with a name. It was noon and it was a beautiful day out, and I just kinda started thinking, ‘What’s wrong with blogs?’ There are subjective reviews, which cause me to not play tracks. The experience sucks. You have to scroll down forever just to find certain songs. It’s an embedded player, so it’s ugly. All the blogs look like WordPress. So I tried to take all those components and package up a mix tape and deliver it at a certain time so people would expect italmost like a little Christmas present. Instead of having everyone dig through 40 to 50 blogs each week,

which most people don’t have time for, I was doing the digging for them and delivering it to them in a beautiful package. As of today we’re driving 10 times as many plays as the blogs. A guy from Republic Records told me that he’d rather have his song featured on the Top 10 of Noon Pacific than any blog out there.”

My brothers would always SHARE MUSIC, whether it was making mix tapes on cassette or burning CDs. I wanted to translate those tangible things to digital.”

Do you have an ultimate goal?

“I think the goal is to be the face of new music across all the different verticals and lifestyle brands, whether it’s coffee or T-shirts or a vinyl release. You know those Now Music compilations? If we could be that for up-and-coming music, that would be cool. We’re even working on a concept for dinner parties. Just being everywhere but still intimate and personal.”

Something that feels cool but inclusive as opposed to exclusive.

Exactly. Something that a 17-year-old could listen to but also something my parents would be into.

Sign up for handpicked music at noonpacific.com.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017, SOUTHBAY

31

WHERE WE LIVE | MEDIA

LA Story The much-lauded La La Land pays tribute to the musical genre and the City of Angels.

WRITTEN BY DARREN

I

ELMS

remember the buzz in our office last year about Ryan Gosling shooting just across our parking lot on 11 th Street in Hermosa Beach. At the time, our windows looked directly at the neon lights of the Lighthouse Café—the venerable jazz club and a local haunt since 1949. Little did we know that Mr. Gosling’s shooting duties in the South Bay would eventually play a small part in the stunning movie musical La La Land, now nominated for 14 Academy Awards.

Alongside a perfect Emma Stone, Gosling works the piano keys, dances and even croons as he walks down the Hermosa Pier in a twilight glow. It’s pure Hollywood magic—both nostalgic and contemporary—shot right here in our backyard. Hermosa is even considering adding street lights to the pier and recreating the same ambience from the film. Yes, please!

If you haven’t had the opportunity to view Damien Chazelle’s innovative, funny, romantic and bittersweet film, please get to the theatre while it’s still showing on the big screen. I challenge you to not fall in love with the characters, their passions and the metropolis we call home. 

It’s pure Hollywood magic—both nostalgic and contemporary— SHOT RIGHT HERE IN OUR BACKYARD.”

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WHERE WE LIVE | COMMUNITY

RIGHT KEY Martha (right) with (clockwise) Matthew Morreale, Kat Masters and Ryan Ayers

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COMMUNITY | WHERE WE LIVE

Strings Attached With a guitar, Martha Masters finds her voice and a passion to get others to pick up the instrument.

WRITTEN BY DIANE

E. BARBER COOPER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY STEPHAN

T

he art of guitar music transcends cultures, current affairs and international borders. For centuries it has blurred socioeconomic lines and bridged generations, countries, lifestyles and musical genres. Whether classical, rock, jazz, country, pop, blues, flamenco or any other style, the lure of the sound of a guitar is a universally celebrated language that inspires dance, song, poetry, dreams and more. It is a tonic for the soul that awakens memories and has been a messenger of peace and love throughout history.

“The guitar is one of the most popular instruments in the world, and many people who learn to play are fulfilled by it for a lifetime,” says Martha Masters, president of the Palos Verdes-based Guitar Foundation

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of America (GFA).

Martha is a testament to a lifelong passion for the instrument. She was born in Ohio and grew up in a military family that relocated often. Her parents valued music education immensely and encouraged her to begin taking guitar lessons when she was 6 years old. (Her mother played the violin, and her father played the trombone.)

“I was very shy, and the guitar allowed me to have a voice. I did not play in a group setting until I was in high school,” recalls Martha.

After high school she completed a doctorate in music at USC. She currently teaches classical guitar music at Loyola Marymount University in addition to serving as president of the GFA since 2002.

With Martha enthusiastically at the helm of the GFA, the nonprofit organization boasts roughly 3,000 members including classical guitarists, students and teachers in North America and abroad.

Founded in 1973 by the American String Teachers Association, it has grown to become the largest multinational guitar society in the world. It offers guitarists a multitude of educational and performance opportunities and resources, such as an annual convention (to be held June 19-24 at CSU Fullerton this year), international competitions, regional symposia throughout the U.S., GFA publications, archives and more.

“Music education is typically focused on bands, orchestras and choruses,” Martha says. “Through the Guitar Foundation of America we want to increase opportunities

for quality education with guitars in public schools, both on a national and international level.”

It was Martha’s commitment to education that landed her in Palos Verdes in 2010.

“I moved to the Peninsula for the excellent schools for my children.”

To bring the global work of the GFA close to home, Martha aligned the organization with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District and the Peninsula Education Foundation via a recent fundraiser at her home. She is actively exploring school board approval to offer guitar classes in Palos Verdes schools. If approved, she and her GFA team will assist with securing instruments and recommending teachers for the classes.

With educational excellence in a fun setting as a cornerstone of the GFA, Martha’s short-term goal is to offer guitar classes in Palos Verdes schools and then reach into neighboring communities in the South Bay. Her bigger vision is to continue the development of programs throughout the region that offer classes to elementary, middle and high schools so all students will have the opportunity to have a guitar in hand five days a week to develop their skills.

“Fostering self-expression, creativity and the joy of the arts is why we do what we do,” she shares. “We can instruct in classical guitar, but basic techniques can be used in rock, jazz and other genres.”

For more information, visit guitarfoundation.org.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017, SOUTHBAY

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WHERE WE LIVE | BY THE NUMBERS

3

3rd century

Number of saints named “Valentine” who were martyred and recognized by the Roman Catholic Church

Legendary priest named Valentine defied Emperor Claudius II’s order not to marry young couples because single men made better soldiers … he was put to death

During the Middle Ages, this was believed to be the day in February that bird mating season began, thus a day for romance

15

1840s

The ides of February and observed date of the pagan celebration of Lupercalia, a fertility festival—it’s believed the event was “Christianized” in the 5th century

85% (approximately) Valentines that are purchased by women

1415

Oldest known valentine still in existence today … a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt

14

Cupid’s Countdown Just how does Valentine’s Day add up?

17th century

“Mother of Valentine’s Day” Esther A. Howland begins selling the first mass-produced valentines in America

1 billion Valentine’s Day cards exchanged annually*, making it the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas

$147 average per person Valentine’s spending in 2016**

Valentine’s Day picks up popularity in Great Britain

*according to the Greeting Card Association **according to the National Retail Federation

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WHERE WE LIVE | DEP

My Sweet Dumpling Bite-size dumplings served alongside tea will warm hungry hearts … on Valentine’s Day or any occasion.

WRITTEN, STYLED & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARA

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SOUTHBAY, FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

MICKELSON

oursouthbay.com

TRADITIONS | WHERE WE LIVE

D

umplings fall under the dim with Dynamite and MB Post fame recomitems like chicken feet, and then on to deepsum category of small bites—like mends Empress Harbor Seafood on Atlantic fried dishes. If the pot of tea is getting low, cupcakes or cookies to dessert.

Boulevard in Monterey Park. When pressed cock the lid to the side to signal a refill.

They come steamed, fried, baked for more details, he quickly responds, “Try For some, myself included, dim sum desor as small sweet offerings in the har gow, pork ribs, shrimp noodle … the sert options are optional and not my favorite different shapes and folds with varying types flat burrito-style fold.” part of the overall experience. Plus your of wrappers and arrangement of ingredients.

It’s worth taking a few friends in order to pants feel a bit tight by that point.

Some are soft and tender, burst with a maximize the tasting options. Most servings The typical dessert tasting options are juicy broth and come packed with satisfycome in portions of three to four, and some unfamiliar to the American palate and, ing flavor combinations of shrimp, bamboo places like the famous Taiwanese chain Din Tai except for traditional egg tarts with the flaky and pork. They are best served with a salty Fung will have you commit to a steamer basket crust and custard, textures and combinasoy sauce, a hint of tangy vinegar and fresh of five to 10 pieces for one style of dumpling. tions don’t round off the menu as well as ginger. What’s not to adore, as each artfully Don’t expect to mix-and-match your you might like. Unless you opt for a more crafted small package delights the senses. favorites. You will need to order based on modern dim sum restaurant that has more The literal translation of dim sum is “dot the portions listed in the menu, so if you refined and tasty options, skip the sugar and of heart” or “touch the heart” … which makes go solo or as a duo, you may come up short save your waistline. But again, no rules. perfect sense for those who love dim sum on variety in relation to the price. Plus the If during your adventure you summon the both as food and as an experience. Dim sum experience is meant to be social, and sharing nerve to try chicken feet, not so aptly called is typically an extended brunch taken with is the norm. “phoenix claw,” beware. It is not a dish “ristea, or the familiar casual term “yum ing from the ashes.” It’s basically cha”—the act of attending dim sum, bones with a strangely gelatinous a ritual tea offering now forever texture (boiled and sometimes linked to the small bites. fried chicken feet skin) and some The tradition began in the Han masking sauce. Yet this is a staple The literal translation of dim sum dynasty, when roadside teahouses for diehard fans. Some believe the is DOT OF HEART or TOUCH THE offered snacks or light fare to collagen in the feet is responsible HEART … which makes perfect sense weary travelers along the Silk Road. for youthful skin. for those who love dim sum both as Today’s dim sum is a sensory overIf you are feeling festive or food and as an experience.” load—but all in a good way. It’s a inspired by Chinese New Year cacophony of sounds—noisy talkers approaching, you might consider and clanging trays—mingled with a throwing your own dim sum party. range of swirling aromas.

This year the Chinese New Year With the richness of food options in LA If you can’t make it to San Gabriel Valley, begins on Saturday, January 28 and lasts for proper, heading to Hong Kong with your local dim sum options are limited. Howa couple weeks. passport in hand isn’t required. While most ever, Din Tai Fung recently opened in the There are several dim sum dish options restaurants have eliminated the famous refurbished Del Amo mall and offers a more that are relatively easy to make. You’ll find a pushcarts of delicacies, there are more than streamlined menu in a modern setting. fair share of challenging ones as well, so do enough places to try that offer both tradiOptions include xiao long bao, shortened to a little research in advance. The main goal is tional and modern fare.

“XLB,” which are the popular soup dumpto keep it simple unless you consider yourWhen it comes to finding the best restaulings filled with a porky, briny broth. self autodidactic or a quick self-learner. rant, the dim sum dance is forever changing.

They also serve an assortment of bao, While YouTube and websites such as You can painstakingly search online, sorting buns, steamed dumplings, appetizers such as Lucky Peach or Serious Eats have a plethora through wildly mixed reviews of thumbs-up pork sticky rice wrap; sweet and sour short of tutorials to dive into, I wouldn’t plan on or thumbs-down. Or ask a trusted local chef ribs; noodle dishes with spicy, sesame or making crystal shrimp (har gow) or XLB with a penchant for Asian cuisine for his or minced pork sauce; and wontons and sweet soup dumplings if you are a novice. You her favorite dim sum place. desserts such as XLB red bean, sweet taro can easily become overwhelmed finessing Local chef Tin Vuong of Little Sister and and chocolate and mochi, to name a few. the technique or searching for hard-to-find Dia De Campo, among other eateries, is also Even their modified menu still offers a ingredients. a San Gabriel Valley native. And the Valley is memorable indulgence of the senses. Be Instead, pick one or two folds to master home to some of the best dim sum in the U.S. patient, though, as many dim sum placesinwith easily found dim sum wrappers (located Chef Tim recommends Lunasia on Main cluding Din Tai Fungdon’t take reservations, at Asian markets) and have ingredients Street in Alhambra as the place to go. They and high demand can cause long wait times available to make an occasion out of it, like serve modern Chinese dim sum cuisine. Be before being seated. making tamales. Once your guests craft a sure to try the foie gras dumplings, jumbo As typical of Asian culture, tradition and few beauties, place them in a stovetop bamshrimp har gow, chicken feet, X.O. sauce order and discipline are important elements boo steamer and pass around the dipping seafood fried rice, stir-fried beef chow fun, of the dining experience. All the rules aren’t sauce and chopsticks.

BBQ pork rice roll, X.O. sauce ribs with black set in stone, but dim sum is expected to begin Better yet, mark a day on the calendar bean and egg tart. According to the chef, with hot tea—not a fancy coffee or boba! with friends and plan a dim sum crawl. Or “Everything is delicious!“ Start slow with steamed dishes. Then stake out a weekend to soak in a nice new Chef David LeFevre of Arthur J, Fishing move on to more adventurous or challenging place. It might just be love at first bite. 

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PALATE | WHERE WE LIVE

Comfort Food Newcomer 21 Square Bar + Kitchen places the culinary scene in Torrance back on the map.

WRITTEN BY JENNIE

T

NUNN

he city of Torrance has long been known for its stretch of beaches, mild temps and notable residents and athletes, including late Olympian and World War II veteran and hero Louis Zamperini and fivetime world figure skating champion and Olympian Michelle Kwan.

Now, thanks to the opening of 21 Square Bar + Kitchen located in the Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach hotel directly across from the revamped Del Amo Fashion Center, the historic city is also reemerging as a culinary destination. “Torrance has changed dramatically over several years and will continue to exceed the expectations of those that find this hidden gem,” says Victoria K. Wakefield, director of food and beverage at Marriott International.

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an outdoor terrace and modern fire pit-turned-table. “21 Square is the quintessential destination for all things SoCal, where you can dine, play and entertain both indoors or outdoors,” says Victoria. “We have provided an escape for our hotel guests and a place for locals to hang out with the games, hammocks or new picnic tables and Coastal Hour [happy hour] events that make this location unique to so many other restaurants in the city.”

The aptly-named eatery, designed as a nod to the 21-square-mile city incorporated in 1921, serves handcrafted coastal comfort food with a twist by executive chef Victor Miguel. The inventive menu is divided into categories such as Quick Bites + Shareables, Local Greens, On Bread, Knife + Fork and Endings.

For breakfast, try the chicken + bacon waffles with maple syrup and French toast bricks with salted caramel bananas. Lunch and dinner starters and shared plates span charred cauliflower with golden raisins and toasted hazelnuts, freshly made flatbreads (we recommend the pesto + heirloom tomato salad with fresh mozzarella, basil, chives and evoo) and shaved Brussels sprouts with pickled onions, candied pecans and cider vinaigrette.

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Larger plates include the Madrona burger made with Strauss family grass-fed beef, grafton cheddar, pecanwood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato and onion ($1 donation benefits nearby Madrona Marsh Conservation); the Absolution Ale fish & chips (served in a beer can from the local brewery); and the seared Loch Duart salmon with vegetable succotash and chipotle corn sauce. Desserts include Vic’s Banana S’more with chocolate ganache, housemade marshmallows and graham cracker crust, and a warm croissant bread pudding with a bourbon glaze and vanilla bean ice cream.

Handmade, “recklessly crafted” cocktails, an assortment of bottled beers, beers on tap and bourbon flights are highlights from the bar. For a light, refreshing option order the J. Collins with Fuju vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, soda water and garnished with perfectly curled lemon rinds. Or opt for the Night Cap with Templeton rye whiskey, maple syrup, chocolate bitters and scorched orange oil.

The restaurant is awash in varying hues of charcoal, pewter, copper and navy blue. Old blackand-white films of bygone days in Torrance play on a wall across from the main concrete bar flanked with Danish modern woven barstools. The eatery is lined with light grey wooden floors and industrial-style glass pendant lamps.

“You don’t feel like you are in a hotel restaurant, and you certainly forget you are next to the largest mall in Southern California,” adds Victoria. “Our menu changes frequently with nightly dishes featuring local ingredients and is evolving as we speak.”

Get ready to loosen your belt buckle.

3635 Fashion Way in Torrance 310-543-6034

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017, SOUTHBAY

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WHERE WE LIVE | ARTS

The New Landscape Why South Bay residents are falling in love with contemporary expressionist artist Amadea Bailey.

WRITTEN BY ALINA

OROZCO OROZCO

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MONICA

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ARTS | WHERE WE LIVE

T

here are those who paint the world they see, and there are those who paint from their gut. Amadea Bailey is the latter.

Standing in the middle of her loft studio with her large-scale canvases towering over her, Amadea appears diminutive—but only for a moment. The airy space, built behind the Los Angeles bungalow she calls home, has been transformed into an artist’s studio. It is marked by a concrete floor so covered in splatters of paint, it resembles a Jackson Pollock painting.

Soon a whirlpool of energy starts to build beneath her feet as she effortlessly lifts giant canvases leaning on starkly white walls, revealing a few more from her most recent collection. The work, bright and abstract,

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hits you like a tidal wave. You’re sucked in. Connecting to the purposeful energy, Amadea has expertly crafted a story with a mix of acrylics, Caran d’Ache crayons, oils or watercolors, and other items that feel surprisingly in place—like wrapping paper, a paintbrush or a flyer.

It’s difficult to separate Amadea from the canvases. They are one. She isn’t recreating a SoCal sunset or depicting a landscape.

She is sharing a transcendental experience, expressing her raw emotion onto the canvas.

As a viewer, you instantly connect with this energy.

“My art has a lot of light. My paintings are emotional, so the energy is potent and people connect to that,” she says.

Such experience is typical for potential buyers who visit Amadea at her studio.

Flooded with emotions, most become friends, collectors and admirers.

Janet Laver of Manhattan Beach is one.

First introduced to Amadea by her interior designer, Suzanne Ascher of Waterleaf Interiors in Manhattan Beach, Janet initially visited the studio to find a contemporary piece for a large wall. At the studio, she found herself drawn to a white canvas textured with cream paint, remnants of lace and an abstract figure of a dancer.

“It was simple, it was elegant,” she says.

“Every day I just smile, and it reminds me of my mom.” Later she purchased another piece from Amadea—also a dancer but “a bit more contemporary and abstract with pops of fuchsia and chartreuse,” explains Janet, an avid traveler and collector in her own right.

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WHERE WE LIVE | ARTS

But what has made Amadea successful— especially within the South Bay community, where locals search for a perfect contemporary piece to complement their digs—isn’t merely the art. Though Amadea is a Yale-educated expressionist painter, what most people fall in love with at the studio is the artist herself.

“She is fascinating as a person. I loved her spirit,” sums up Janet.

Amadea has lived an extraordinary life.

Born in Germany, she spent her childhood in Kenya, where her father was a professor in a small village college. Today her work still connects to those early memories.

Later she lived in New York, London and Paris, always painting, always collecting experiences and memories, always transferring them onto the canvas.

For Amadea, the embrace of her art by South Bay residents simply means she gets to do more of what she loves, which is the process itself. A trained dancer, painting on a large scale requires her to move her body across the canvas, and that feels natural. “I’m a deeply physical person. I love movement,” she explains.

Now the quintessential California girl with beachy blonde locks and a passion for surfing, Amadea has a massive collection that spans several years and nearly 25 canvases. “It’s really an improvised dance,” says Amadea, pointing to her gut in indication that the amassed work has been a cathartic process she is now ready to share.

For more information about the Amadea Bailey collection, visit amadeabailey.com.

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

The minute I met Amadea, I felt an ORGANIC CONNECTION,” says Manhattan Beach’s Janet Morris Levar of the artist. “Her studio, presence and great laugh were the perfect backdrop to her gorgeous artwork … and I wanted some of her energy and beauty!” Janet currently enjoys two of Amadea’s paintings in her art collection. “Each of her canvases is part of her journey and story. I feel privileged to continue the story.”

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STYLE FILE | WHERE WE LIVE

Spoonflower takes custom design to a new level with wallpaper, fabric and gift wrap. This head turner is “Arrows” wallpaper by Holli Zollinger. Rolls overlap so the design works across the wall.$60 for standard 2’ x 12’ roll. spoonflower.com Jonathan Adler’s white ceramic owls add whimsy and style to any bookshelf. Set of two, $195; wayfair.com

Imaginative Interiors Designer Timothy Corrigan’s new five-piece, gold-accented Jardin Francais china collection was inspired by the ornamental gardens in France. Produced by Royal Limoges, the line is microwave and dishwasher safe. Five-piece collection, $375; gearys.com

Think art is just for walls?

From fabric to dishware, home design gets artistic like never before.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRITTANY AMBRIDGE

Brooklyn artist Wayne Pate translates his original paintings into a playful and sophisticated collection of fabric and wallpaper. $67.50 per yard; studiofournyc.com

Brooklyn-based illustrator Julie Rothman focuses her talents on a new line of removable tile (photo above, top) and fabric. This design, Daydream, is $80 per yard in fabric and $58 for 2 tiles. hyggeandwest.com With the Century Signature Collection, you pick the fabric, dimensions, number of panels and top design of a screen. This particular one is 7 feet tall with five panels and a rounded top. $5,625; centuryfurniture.com

WHERE WE LIVE | WEEKENDER

Desert Designs With the arrival of the new Andaz, a vibrant art scene takes center stage in Scottsdale.

WRITTEN BY DARREN

ELMS

T

he paintings and pencil drawings of Mark McDowell offer a window into a storied life that includes a stint in a traveling circus as a young man. There are beautiful acrobats balancing on horses, floating instruments, vehicles in motion … all rendered in vibrant color palettes and affable sincerity.

For much of his 30 years as a frequently exhibited and published artist, Mark has enjoyed a prominent residence at Cattle Track Arts & Preservation. It’s a literal residence if you count his home, also located on the property. Opened in 1936, the compound serves as a haven for creatives—including artists, jewelers, potters, blacksmiths, printers and performers–to craft their works in an environment that prizes collaboration and creativity.

When Mark moved to Scottsdale a few decades ago, the landscape of his adopted city was more desert than development. Over a beer at a local bar where a trio of buddies (first-class acts who performed with

the likes of Glen Campbell and Bruce Springsteen) plays for an enthusiastic clientele, he laments the physical changes to the area—a smattering of new homes and resorts that often overwhelm the serenity of the Camelback Mountain neighborhoods. But there are exceptions.

When the Andaz announced it would take over an outdated resort only a few blocks from the Cattle Track compound, Mark and his fellow artists might have raised a weary eyebrow at the specter of more unsightly alterations. Instead the Andaz honored the low-profile setup of the previous resort and even formed a mutually beneficial partnership with its new neighbors.

Alongside a design team hired to bring modernity into the existing structures and expansive grounds, Mark was employed by Andaz to breathe some mid-century whimsy into the ambience. His curated assemblage includes sculptures by Jonathan Adler, folk art by Alexander Girard and a prominent display of Cattle Track originals and

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE Cattle Track’s Mark McDowell, Janie Ellis and Brent Bond at the compound

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reprints throughout the rooms and common areas. Even the colorful mugs waiting on the breakfast table are handmade by local ceramic artist Mary Van Dusen.

The blueprint of the new Andaz is nearly identical to the Cottonwood Suites it replaces. Rather than build up, the hotel preserved the 201 one-story bungalows scattered around the property to preserve the stunning views of Camelback Mountain. The overall aesthetic takes cues from the era of Eames with its mod furniture choices, wood accents and colorful palette. In fact, each bungalow is marked with its own signature hue, taken from the traditional color wheel of the local Zuni tribe.

The wall-to-wall glass of the lobby and adjoining restaurant brings the outdoors in for an immersive experience. Chef Adam Sheff’s kitchen functions in full view of his guests as he makes creative dishes to rival the artistic inspirations of his venue. These include small-plate and shareable dishes that draw influence from the Sonoran desert, local specialties and Chef Adam’s Middle Eastern background. Joined with a craft cocktail or glass of wine, you’re in for a real treat.

When you’re not taking advantage of the spa, pool or fitness center located on property, the Andaz encourages you to explore the Paradise Valley it calls home. This includes visits to the Cattle Track Arts Compound, where Mark will gladly give you the VIP tour.

For more on Andaz Scottsdale, visit scottsdale.andaz. hyatt.com. To learn more about Cattle Track Arts Compound and their resident artists, visit cattletrack.org. 

SCOTTSDALE TIPSTER: • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is less than 30 minutes from Scottsdale in good traffic. If you don’t drive from LA to AZ (less than six hours), we suggest renting a car to help get around.

• Scottsdale can be a scorcher in the summer months. Plan your visit in the spring when temperatures are manageable, or fall and winter when less crowded.

• There’s plenty to explore in Scottsdale, including shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square, brunch at the beautiful patio of historical El Chorro, hiking Camelback Mountain or an architectural tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West.

WHERE WE LIVE | DATEBOOK

AMERICAN ORIGINALS February 11

Charles Phoenix: This Is America

Ambassador of Americana Charles Phoenix supercharges the classic living room slide show into a laugh-out-loud celebration of spectacular mid-century car culture, space-age oddities, roadside attractions, festive fashions, outrageous architecture, theme parks and much, much more. 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, torrancearts.org February 11–18

Water & Wood

More than 35 artists and photographers showcase their interpretation of water and wood in works ranging from fine art to hand-shaped surfboards.

Hermosa Design, hermosa-design.com March 22

Vin Scully

The recently retired, legendary voice of the Los Angeles Dodgers sits down to discuss his life and legacy as part of the Distinguished Speakers Series. 8 p.m., Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, speakersla.com

February Through April 16 Wearable Expressions: 7th Annual Juried Exhibition

VISUALS & VOICE Above: Charles Phoenix. Right: Vin Scully

16 The Child Fund, Korea Dream Orchestra 7:30 p.m., Wilshire Ebell Theatre, aasymphony.org

Palos Verdes Art Center, pvartcenter.org

5 Super Bowl Sunday 10k/5k

24 Designs for Dining

10–12 & 17–19 Once On This Island

March

6 a.m., Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach, redondo10k.com

Presented by 3D Theatricals Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 3dtshow.com

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St. Francis Episcopal Church, stfrancispalosverdes.org

7&8 Red Hot Chili Peppers

7:30 p.m., Staples Center, axs.com

11 St. Patrick’s Day Parade

11 a.m., Downtown Hermosa Beach, hbchamber.net

18 Balanchine: Master of Dance

Presented by Los Angeles Ballet 7:30 p.m., Redondo Beach Performing Art Center, losangelesballet.org

20 St. Patrick’s Day Golf Tourney Benefiting South Bay Police and Fire Memorial Foundation Los Verdes Country Club, sbpoliceandfire.com

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THE RICHSTONE FAMILY CENTER’S 22nd Annual “An Affair of the Heart” Gala

START YOUR ENGINES The Richstone Family 1, Center saturday , april 2017 6:30 pm 

21st Annual “An Affair of the Heart” Gala venue - brand new porsche south bay 2017 Honorees:

Terrence Dibble Kids Club Volunteers

Larry Bender, Anita Bronstein & Griffin the therapy dog, Roberta Coppersmith, Theresa Dawson, Mary McClure, Karen Sidney, Cheryl Shojinaga

Presenting Sponsors

For more information, call (310) 970-1921 ext 137 or visit RichstoneGala.org Proceeds from the event provide vital support for Richstone’s child abuse treatment and prevention programs.

LOOK YOUNGER THIS SUMMER NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME FOR NEOGRAFT

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Suite J Torrance, 90505 (310) 375-7599 www.revivecenter.com

SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Del Amo Fashion Center’s 12 Days of Christmas

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JP CORDERO

Contest winner Jill Carlton brought her 92-year-old grandmother along to do some serious shopping. A Palos Verdes local and owner of a Pilates studio in Torrance, Jill was in a terrible accident two years ago to the day of winning the contest. Though doctors didn’t think she would fully recover from her injuries, she showed up proudly to accept her prize.

Jill won a $1,000 shopping spree to Del Amo Fashion Center and a staycation at Terranea Resort. She was escorted to meet Santa and get her holiday shopping done early, thanks to Rusnak Maserati Alfa Romeo and FIAT of South Bay.

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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Morgan’s Jewelers 70th Anniversary

A special evening celebrated 70 years of Morgan’s Jewelers with the community and friends. The night featured a raffle with prizes benefiting Torrance Memorial Foundation, including a six-day safari trip, Breitling watch and exquisite jewelry items.

Edward Barrios, Trisha Barrios, Cooper Mayhew

Justin Miller, Petra Miller, Dave Frieden, Linda Frieden, Leslie Kelso, Jason Kelso

Helen Varon

Ana Huot, Russ Varon, Randy Beezley, Tasha Beezley and guests

Shirley Waider, Thess Duong, Vanona Thompson, John Thompson

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JP CORDERO

David Klein, Song Klein, guests

Pints for Prostates

South Bay Mo Bros

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Ann O’Brien, Tim Lesser, MD, Erin Fiorito

Clark Brown, Jennifer Brown, Craig Ekberg, Hanne Ekberg, Alicia Henderson, Jeff Henderson, Sophie Rietdyk, Guido Rietdyk, Lisa Cheatham, Song Klein, James Cheatham, Patti Delcarson, Steve Delcarson, Garrett Matsunaga, MD, Greg Delgado, Lori Delgado

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

Timothy Lesser, MD, Sandy Goodman, David Wallis, MD, Judith Gassner, Garrett Matsunaga, MD, Robert Hessling

Torrance Memorial kicked off Movember with its “Pints for Prostates” beer tasting night at the Shade Hotel Redondo Beach.

Attendees sampled brews from local breweries while experts from Torrance Memorial, as well as a prostate cancer survivor, gave their perspectives on prostate cancer. Proceeds supported the Movember Foundation.

SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

Adrienne Lazovick, Maria Aguila, Nicole Alm, Olga Milobedzki, Cachita Hynes

Leah Obegi, Patti McCullum, Jackie Miller

Sandpipers 24th Annual Holiday Homes Tour

Sandpipers hosted their 24th annual Holiday Homes Tour showcasing distinctive South Bay homes. This year’s tour featured four breathtaking homes in Manhattan Beach. Each home was beautifully decorated and transformed for the holiday season by local designers, retailers and florists.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY GINA CALLARI

Tasha Gates, Angela Dax, Lee-Meredith Howard, Rachel Bosma

Grace Jung and Alex Duda

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Kristina Durkin and Cori Iverson

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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Torrance Memorial Holiday Festival

Torrance Memorial’s Holiday Festival raised more than $1.5 million through ticket sales, a Lexus opportunity drawing, Holiday Boutique sales, and live and silent auction pledges. The Foundation announced it had met its goal to transfer $12 million to the medical center, bringing total donations to nearly $17 million for the year. Funds raised benefit the transformation of the North Patient Tower—dedicated to maternal/childcare services.

Craig Leach, Judy Leach, Jackie Geiger, Greg Geiger

Carolyn Snyder, Sally Eberhard, Mike Eberhard

Alex Shen, MD, Ally Shen, Lan Sun, Jack Sun, MD

Louis Graziadio, Beth Graziadio, Craig Quinn, Colleen Quinn, Ginger Bredsen, Chris Bredsen

Private Preview of New Porsche South Bay

Carl Tofflemire, Charles Latibeaudiere and guests

Authentic Cuban-style cigars rolled on-site

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Models serving Champagne to guests

Detlev von Platen, Paige Sullivan, Klaus Zellmer

Southern California’s top Porsche enthusiasts came out for a private preview of the new Porsche South Bay, a LAcarGuy dealership. The exclusive event featured models in metal, hoop-like skirts holding tiers of Champagne flutes, as well as live Cuban music, cigar rolling, a rum tasting, traditional Irish bagpipers, a viewing of rare Porsche vintage and sports cars, and the unveiling of the new 2017 Porsche Panamera.

Robin “Sugar” Sullivan and Mike Sullivan of LAcarGUY

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

Walt Zanino, Carla Zanino, Lori Baldwin, Dave Baldwin

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WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Las Madrecitas Evergreen Ball

Las Madrecitas, an auxiliary of the Charitable Children’s Guild of the Orthopædic Institute for Children, held its 51st annual Evergreen Ball in the Grand Ballroom of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The event recognized the Las Niñas 2017 senior class (19 high school girls) for their exemplary volunteer service to OIC and their community.

Janis Warter, Jennifer Robbins, Terri Daly

Emily Levin, Addie Brannan, Madeline Babros

Megan Webb, Allie Cromer, Sarah Myers

Katie Cromer, Meg Webb, Lauren Cromer, Susan Holick, Caroline Cromer

Emily Warter, Isabelle Spelta, Casey Barnard

PHOTOGRAPHED BY GILMORE STUDIOS

Dilan Mistry, Alexis Nickl, Isabelle Spelta, Burke Keenan, Michael Kare

Las Niñas 2017

Distinguished Speakers Series

Charlotte Lesser, General David Petraeus, Greg Lesser, Russ Lesser

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Craig Leach, Judy Leach, General David Petraeus, Judith Gassner, Michael Zislis, Mark Lurie, MD

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

General David Petraeus spoke with Torrance Memorial patrons at a private reception at Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach. Petraeus, also former CIA director, led multiple operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He later spoke at the Distinguished Speaker Series of Southern California, which is sponsored by Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

Mike Jarvis and Greta Jarvis

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Sandy

toes and Salty kisses

Blessed with sweeping ocean views, ideal weather and venues overlooking Southern California’s breathtaking sunsets, Redondo Beach is always wedding-ready. Whether you live half a world away or call these shores home, our warm and picturesque beachside city can offer the destination wedding of your dreams.

RedondoBeachWeddings.org | 800.282.0333

WHERE WE LIVE | SEEN

Palos Verdes Junior Women’s Club Holiday Fundraiser

The Palos Verdes Junior Women’s Club’s annual holiday luncheon and shopping boutique was held at the Palos Verdes Golf Club in December. Candy Cane Lane was the theme of the festive fundraiser, which benefited South Bay women and children in crisis.

Alla Kerker, Cheryl Friedman, Jane Lau

Eunice Sheng, Sandra Wang, Lin Chen, Joanne Chang, Delanie Stinton

Lisa Wells, Chelsea Davis Huber, Savannah Leigh Davis, Susan Davis, Lauren Davis

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAY ROBERTS

Keegan Shapiro, Amy Dox Shapiro, Caroline Kelliny, Marielle Sandler, Alexa Dox, Shannon Shapiro

Lora Granovsky, Yvonne Liu, Celine Elgrably, Camille Wall, Susan Kowalski

NCL Peninsula Chapter’s Annual Holiday Tea 2016

Lori Delgado, Jan VanRiper, Karen Cameron, Ellen Perkins, Karen Govenar, Julie Long, Mary Beth Kane, Rene Mizuguchi

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Beth Graziadio and daughter Marianna, class of 2019

The girls of the class of 2022

Janet Westergaard and Beth Graziadio

Megan Correa (‘18) with Big Sister Brooke Vanderdonck (‘17)

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY NCL PENINSULA

The National Charity League, Inc., Peninsula Chapter recently held its annual Holiday Tea. Beth Graziadio and her daughter Marianna, class of 2019, welcomed more than 500 guests throughout the afternoon at their home in Palos Verdes Estates.

Caroline Moore, the chapter’s Social Graces Tea chair, oversaw the event.

SEEN | WHERE WE LIVE

40th Anniversary Holiday Celebration

The Pregnancy Help Center recently held a 40th anniversary holiday celebration as the culmination of yearlong festivities in honor of their 40th anniversary. More than 70 supporters gathered to celebrate the season and the center’s accomplishments.

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Starting From

Scratch Along with a notable Los Angeles interior designer and architect, a Long Beach couple starts anew on a walk street in Manhattan Beach and creates an art-filled dream home layered with hand-selected pieces that make a big statement.

WRITTEN BY JENNIE

NUNN |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY

JONN COOLIDGE

AND

LAUREN PRESSEY

Starting from Scratch

L

ongtime Long Beach residents Seth and Vicki Kogan knew they were ready for a major change of scenery.

A new city, that is. With three children (two of them in high school at Chadwick Academy in Rolling Hills Estates at the time), the Kogans were planning ahead and building a home in Surfside, near Seal Beach.

“We had actually bought a piece of property down in Surfside and had gone through the whole plans and Coastal Commission,” explains Vicki.

But the couple, who had worked on the Surfside residence with architect James R. Meyer, principal of Lean Arch, Inc., and interior designer Annette English of Los Angeles design firm Annette English & Associates, had a change of heart and were drawn to Manhattan Beach where several friends lived. They settled on a walk street residence six houses back from the ocean.

“We had to start completely over, but the great thing was, we had already hired Annette for this other house and she already had a sense of what we liked and what we wanted,” says Vicki of the three-story, approximately 3,700-square-foot home with views of the ocean.

“The existing house was a typical 1980s beach house with some dated nautical references,” adds Annette. “It was slightly awkward and overscale, and we took it down to the studs with the intention of bringing in more light. Now it’s an elegant, glowing jewel box.”

The Kogans, who previously resided in a traditional, Colonialstyle home in Long Beach with lots of dark woods and antiques, wanted a complete departure. “We knew we wanted things to be light because we were going to be at the beach,” says Vicki. “The undertones are grey and white oak. Again, because we were at the ocean, we knew things were going to fade. But Seth was very adamant and said, ‘I don’t want a cold house.’ So there had to be something in each room that caught your eye, like a pillow or a piece of art. But it all looks like it belongs there, and it’s not monochromatic at all.”

The Kogans moved into the Manhattan Beach home with nothing but their clothes, personal records and shoes. “We’re now empty-nesters, and you have this sense of ‘Wow, I’m entering the next phase of my life.’ And we have a lot of stuff,” says Vicki. “I didn’t want to come to the house with anything other than the clothes from our closet. We didn’t bring one picture frame or knickknack. It was like a complete fresh start, and it was a simpler way to live. It was more about leaving the past behind and moving into the future.”

The multi-level home, replete with an elevator, outdoor shower, study, gym, office, wine room and outdoor patios, features a downstairs “rec room” with a custom-designed poker

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Starting from Scratch

table anchored by an abstract-inspired DelightFULL fixture by Coltrane Lighting for Seth’s monthly poker games.

In the main entry, a stairwell is anchored by a 12-foot cascading teardrop Seed Cloud chandelier by Ochre. “I had a binder full of images,” says Vicki, who initially spotted the piece in New York City. “I told Annette I would love nothing more than to have this in my house. She knew that this would make me happy and that it could work within our budget. I love that about her. We didn’t just go to one lighting showroom. We specifically looked for each piece.”

During the design and construction process, a serendipitous conversation happened while seated at the same table as art consultant, Victoria Burns, at one of their son’s school functions. (They both worked together on Chadwick CPA.) After hearing Burns was an art advisor in Chicago, and was looking to start up again in California, Vicki and Seth added her to the team to help build a robust contemporary art collection..

“My life now revolves around art,” says Vicki. “I went from not knowing a thing about contemporary art to wanting to collect it. It’s opened up a

My life now revolves around art. I went from not knowing a thing about contemporary art to wanting to collect it. It s opened up a whole new world. ii

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whole new world. The art in our house is not decorative. Every single piece has a story behind it. Some of the art may seem serious, but we didn’t start out with that plan. We thought we would start with young emerging California artists, but we have evolved and love collecting things that speak to us or have a message.

Seth told Annette that he wanted warmth, whimsy and wow, and I think we achieved that.”

In the entry festooned near the stairwell, a taupe-hued trench entitled Hustle Coat by artist Nick Cave reveals gold and silver chains and bedazzled money symbols. “The coat is like when you would go to New York and the guys would be wearing trench coats and open them up and say, ‘Wanna buy a Rolex?’ … which of course were all fake watches,” explains Vicki. “We love the artist and he does other pieces called Soundsuits, but they are too tall for our house. When we saw this piece, we fell in love.”

Upstairs in the master suite, Annette designed a custom, seamed headboard and built-in nightstands flanked by a pair of cascading quartz crystal pendant lamps by Shakuff. “They look like jewelry when turned on,” adds Annette of the room that is layered in a custom cowhide rug by Decorative Carpets and a cobalt blue, rose and eggplant-hued painting by artist Mark Flood.

In the living room on the top level, a limestone fireplace serves as a focal point for a pair of gold-dipped shoes floating on a wire by Long Beach artist Kendell Carter, a Lancaster wing chair by Michael Berman and a sculptural pouf coffee table

by CASTE Design. Sphere-like Abaco pendant lamps by Venini double as a partition that separates the space from the kitchen, which was designed by Bulthaup. The room features LEM Piston barstools from Design Within Reach.

“Everything was deliberate,” says Annette regarding the design. “Overall what I love is that there are a lot of dramatic moments. It’s like a three-story jewelry box, and I think the home is a powerful expression of them and who they are. I loved the opportunity to bring their dream to life for them.”

“My favorite thing is that I get to look at the ocean every day,” says Vicki. “Whenever I’m driving home and I see the water, it’s like my whole being just kind of goes, ‘Ahh.’ I think I’m a more relaxed person by living here.” 

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Art

Advancement From buying your first piece of art to cultivating a collection, the gathering process is as much about the maturation and progression of the buyer as it is about the art.

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CULLEN HAMILTON |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY NANCY

PASTOR oursouthbay.com

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ntimidation. It’s an unwelcome feeling that entering an art gallery or delving into the realm of art collecting can induce, regardless of geographical location or socioeconomic status.

Truthfully, people are rarely knowledgeable about art, and most art is purchased on an emotional level rather than from an academic or investment pursuit.

When taking the plunge to purchase, people often rely on recommendations of friends rather than investing in due diligence on galleries, artists or the process of cultivating a collection.

This is a process that involves equal amounts of passion, courage and commitment. It’s as much an evolution of the buyer as it is the curated collection, with an end result being a life enriched by the art, the people who create it and those who sell it.

Business relationships turn into personal friendships, as equal amounts of trust are required from both collector and dealer. Ultimately a collector views his collection as not only the pieces but also as the people who nurtured his interest, his education and his pursuit.

There are many paths to creating an art collection, and there is no specific “right” way to do it. From inheritance to collecting with intent, people amass decorative arts that interest, entertain and enrapture.

While some people choose to hire an art advisor or work directly with one gallery, the majority of people make their own decisions and purchases from a number of sources. From benefit auctions to niche market collecting, people buy art that satisfies their creative and emotional energies.

Entering a world-renowned gallery can be daunting.

Svelte, well-coiffed attendants glide through hushed galleries where prices are not listed—causing further angst to novice buyers. However, one should never be intimidated about going to any gallery. The purpose of every gallery is to sell art, and in order to sell art the gallery must engage potential buyers. For that reason, everyone is welcome.

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THE BEGINNER For the novice, it’s important to see many types of art in many settings. There is no better education than visiting museums because the eye will be trained by viewing the best works by acclaimed artists. However, another great asset of every community is the art association.

Most frequently, artists of a specific area comprise the association; however, there are some associations that require juried entrance open to national artists.

Exhibitions at art associations are frequent, and emerging artist prices are affordable. Furthermore, opportunities to meet both the artists and the other collectors are abundant, thereby cultivating numerous relationships.

The Los Angeles Art Association (LAAA) is the oldest art association in California. Founded in 1925, the LAAA’s first exhibit focused on European Masters–a collection that was donated to LACMA in 1933. At that point the LAAA turned its focus on featuring pieces by local and regional emerging artists.

Today the LAAA has an extensive roster of member artists from across the nation whose works are shown at Gallery 825 on North La Cienega in West Hollywood. Shows are held every six weeks and are juried by guest curators and directors from major national museums and renowned galleries.

LAAA executive director Peter Mays believes that “cultural exchange programs and collaborative forums with universities and museums continue to reinforce the LAAA’s programming as one of the top in the country.” From large exhibitions to more intimate conversations with artists to the ArtSpeak series for artists, the LAAA provides numerous opportunities to engage buyers with emerging artists as well as promote artists to larger platforms.

Closer to home, the Palos Verdes Art Center serves the South Bay area as a place for exhibitions, education and outreach in the visual arts. Local artists work at the center, where their pieces are frequently on exhibit and for sale in the gift shop. Additionally, the center hosts juried exhibitions throughout the year

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DISCOVERY ZONE Art Advancement

Patrons at the Los Angeles Art Association Open Show at Gallery 825 in December

featuring national and international artists. From wearable art to the evolution of California organic architecture, the PVAC encompasses the past and present as it looks to the future.

The PVAC also provides extensive educational opportunities for the community at large. The Studio School within the center offers classes for all ages, levels and abilities, including specially-abled artists.

Says PVAC executive director Joe Baker, “It’s a highly creative laboratory committed to engaging a diverse audience by using the art as a catalyst for conversation and the exchange of ideas as we unite people through the various processes and styles via our exhibitions and programs.”

THE EXPERIENCED VIEWER Although there’s a stigma that galleries are expensive and even cost-prohibitive, it’s an overgeneralization that should be eliminated. While some galleries represent works that are a significant financial commitment, not all galleries are costly. There are many opportunities to acquire art by documented artists at affordable prices.

The G2 Gallery in Venice proves an excellent example of a gallery representing both internationally renowned and emerging artists—and often at

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very reasonable price points. Founded in 2008 by Dan Gottlieb and Susan Gottlieb, the gallery focuses on nature and wildlife photography with an emphasis on philanthropy.

Spectacular images of landscapes and wildlife comprise the gallery, where shows change every eight weeks and all proceeds are returned to environmental charities. The list of charities is long and includes the Western National Parks Association, Earthjustice, the Wilderness Society and Audubon California. To date, more than $1.2 million has been donated to environmental nonprofits through the sale of the photographs–a rare feat in the art market.

“We bring attention to environmental issues through the power of photographic art, so our roster of represented artists includes some of the world’s most renowned photographers whose work is not only in museums, films and books but who’ve also been nationally recognized for accomplishments that have shaped the environmental movement,” says gallery director Lisa Fimiani.

Photographs by acclaimed photographers such Ansel Adams, Alan Ross, Tom Mangelsen and Robert Glenn Ketchum line the walls next to several Los Angeles nature photographers that include J.J. L’Heureux and Ian Shive. Stunning images in black-

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Art Advancement

“We bring attention to environmental issues through the power of photographic ” .

art

and-white or color can be acquired for as low as $400—an incredibly affordable price point for work by such prestigious creators.

The gallery gift shop on the ground floor is an additional treasure trove of beautifully handcrafted objects ranging from artisan bowls to jewelry to children’s items to books–all unique and not found elsewhere in the area. The Gottliebs’ recently published book, The Gottlieb Native Garden, a California Love Story, celebrates their acclaimed Beverly Hills wildlife habitat garden and teaches the need for biodiversity as we face global environmental changes.

GOLDEN EYE Lisa Fimiani, the new director of the G2 Gallery in Venice, below

THE COLLECTOR As buyers become collectors, the process shifts significantly. Collectors focus on intrinsically valuable pieces due to rarity, date of creation and the significance as it relates to the overall collection. Furthermore, broad art collecting shifts to very specific markets that are usually defined by geographical location, period and medium.

Although most people think of fine art as paintings and sculpture, collecting extends to all decorative arts and objects. One of the most specific niche markets in the art world is Oceanic art: pieces created by the native peoples of the Pacific islands, including Papua

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Art Advancement

Robert Ross began collecting Oceanic art through Michael 10 years ago, but his expertise in the process of collecting is extensive as evidenced by the depth of his varied collections. Having amassed previous collections as diverse as Northern European 15 th century prints and classic automobiles, Ross is keenly aware of the critical need to work with dealers whose integrity is as strong as their knowledge of their field.

“Michael is a rare dealer due to his experience in field collecting, underpinned by his academic credentials and years of research. He became a trusted advisor when I started collecting and continues to be a valued friend and resource,” says Robert, who lives in the San Fernando Valley.

Robert only buys a few pieces each year, but he knows that if Michael calls with a great discovery, it’s already vetted and worthy of investment. The cornerstone is that the two share an appreciation and a passion for collecting authentic, period Oceanic art; the capstone is the friendship and mutual respect that has resulted from the process of collecting.

Whether you are just becoming acquainted with art and the process of collecting or whether you are a seasoned buyer forming a collection, the process is interesting and engaging. The history of the piece includes the history of the artist, while the process involves galleries and dealers. One purchase can turn into a lifelong passion not only for the art but with the creators and those who sell it.

Art by its very definition is the creation of human skill and imagination. May your art collecting process open your mind and engage your imagination as you journey through the eyes and minds of those who create it.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY AARON FALLON

New Guinea, New Zealand and Australia, prior to Western tourist arrival in the 1950s.

Michael Hamson is internationally renowned for his knowledge of Oceanic art and his vast experience in both collecting and selling. After pursuing a master’s degree in African and Oceanic art history, Michael spent 20 years combing the remote areas of Papua New Guinea on field collecting trips, amassing a tremendous inventory.

Oceanic art objects range from the symbolic to the utilitarian; however, all have a sculptural quality that translates a unique message and meaning. From shields to spirit figures to masks to headrests to bowls to earrings, Michael’s inventory tells the story of a spiritually engaged people who understood and appreciated beauty and ritual—even in functional pieces.

Michael is based in Palos Verdes, but he exhibits internationally, including at the prestigious Parcours des Mondes in Paris. He has both national and international clients.

“The interesting thing about exhibiting in Europe is that people of all ages and socioeconomic levels are interested in all types of art. Even if they’re not potential buyers, they appreciate the pieces and enjoy looking, but that’s not as common in America.”

Michael notes that he can guide a first-time buyer to make a smart purchase even if the buyer would like to start with a small purchase of less than $1,000 or pay in installments. “Oceanic art is not a field in which most people have extensive knowledge, so I want them to feel comfortable and make good decisions about what to buy so that they enjoy the process of collecting. My integrity is the key to that relationship,” he shares.

Global luxury market expert and art connoisseur

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Art Advancement

7

Seasoned Collecting Tips

1

Shop around a while before committing to a first purchase. It will train your eye to make a better investment.

2

If a deal seems to good to be true, it probably is. “Caveat emptor� is the motto of the art world.

3

You can ask if a gallery can do better on price or terms, but it is considered offensive to haggle or make exceptionally low offers.

HOME EQUITY Robert Ross (right) with some of his Oceanic Art collection and longtime dealer Michael Hamson

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4 5 6

Go to museum exhibitions. Attend auctions, art fairs and galleries.

Do not feel pressured to buy. Ever.

Have the confidence to buy what you like and the integrity to understand what you are purchasing.

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NEVER buy art to match the sofa or the rug. A blank wall is more interesting than confessing that you boughtFEBRUARY/MARCH something to match 2017, SOUTHBAY the fabric.77

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Featuring three young local women, music band Bahari hits the road and the airwaves with their beach-inspired sound.

WRITTEN BY STEFAN

SLATER |

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAT

MONK

California Dreamin’

“W “The whole thing that everyone believes about California— the culture and its influence on music—all of that has affected us.”

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e all wanted to pursue music from a young age,” says Ruby Carr, a vocalist in the musical trio Bahari. The band, which started in Los Angeles and includes Natalia Panzarella and Sidney Sartini, released their first single, “Wild Ones,” in 2014.

More recently they focused on writing music and hitting the road, releasing their first EP Dancing on the Sun on Interscope Records and performing with Selena Gomez on the artist’s Revival Tour. The band, Ruby notes, is currently working on their album, and they’re eager to share their sound with fans—both dedicated and new—across the world.

“It happened really fast, but it happened organically,” says Natalia. The three musicians first connected in 2013 at Rock Mafia Studios, though at the time they were each working separately on their own individual music projects.

Though Natalia was originally born in Nashville, both she and Sidney grew up in the South Bay. Ruby had recently moved from Kenya—where her parents work in wildlife conservation—to Los Angeles to pursue her music career. “We met there [at Rock Mafia], and we became friends,” shares Ruby. “We started singing and doing covers, and then we just decided that we should do more.”

The trio notes that it took them around 20 minutes to create their song “Wild Ones.” They shared it with some of the producers at Rock Mafia, and the response was positive.

“I feel like they didn’t think that a bunch of teenagers were all that dedicated, but they realized we could do this. And we just really wanted it,” says Natalia. Within a short time frame the trio connected with Simon Fuller, their manager, and started making music.

The band’s name touches on a critical theme for the trio. Ruby speaks Swahili, and one day when all three were hanging out together, Sidney and Natalia were asking more about the language. “We were asking what certain words meant,” Sidney says.

The Swahili word for ocean, “bahari,” popped up. All three were in agreement—it was a perfect fit for the band. “Being around the beach and the South Bay influenced our music a lot,” says Ruby.

The band has, as Sidney puts it, a distinct California sound. They derive much of their inspiration from West Coast bands of the ‘60s.

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The Beach Boys and The Mamas & The Papas in particular have influenced their music tremendously.

That musical era is a pivotal one for Bahari. “It’s when harmony met with rock ‘n’ roll and pop music. It’s influenced us so much,” says Ruby.

The band also finds that photography and philosophy—Ruby is a fan of Alan Watts’ work—play a role in inspiring their work.

All three have a love of beach culture, and coupled with their shared musical interests it’s easy to see how the band developed their particular style of West Coast-inspired music. “California is seen as this place where the weather is great and your dreams come true,” says Ruby. “And it’s true; when I moved here I fell in love. The whole thing that everyone believes about California—the culture and its influence on music—all of that has affected us.”

All three musicians provide vocals, though each member has their individual tastes for instruments. Ruby plays the keyboard, Sidney plays the guitar and Natalia serves as the bassist.

The trio enjoys songwriting, though they do note that it can be challenging.

“Sometimes it’s hard. In the end we just have to go with a gut feeling,” says Ruby. “But we do have each other, so if we don’t know if something is good, then we can just work with one another.”

The previous year was one of growth for the band. Aside from releasing their EP, they also had their first opportunity to play before thousands of fans while touring with Selena Gomez. “It was scary at first,” says Sidney.

Ruby adds that participating in such a major tour operation was a blessing. They learned a lot about the ins and outs of touring, and after a while performing before thousands started to feel natural.

“There’s no better feeling than hearing others sing back the lyrics you wrote. You want to [perform] every day,” she says.

With their EP behind them, the band is now focused on finishing their album. Being that the band finds California culture to be so inspiring, they try to spend much of their time—both individually and as a band—in the South Bay. “I’ve never really lived anywhere else,” says Natalia.

“But even when we’re on tour, I haven’t found one place that I’ve liked better.”

The band is also keen on growing artistically. Though their songs have what they call a “beachy vibe,” they hope to start exploring more substantial themes.

Ruby notes that their single “Dancing on the Sun” has a summery sound, but she says the song has a more somber undertone. “It’s about death. We realize that so many people don’t live in the moment, but no one’s going to be here forever and you should just have fun,” she says.

The trio points out that when they wrote their EP, they were young—around 17 years old. “But we are older now, and we want to send a stronger message,” says Ruby.

With their next album, Bahari plans to retain their California sounds and their love of harmony. But they also want their album to showcase to their fans that, as Ruby says, “It’s OK to be happy.”

Or, as Sidney points out, “We want people to be who they want to be.” 

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In a giant Smoky Hollow warehouse, a Palos Verdes native and his business partner transform retired aircraft into museum-worthy, functional, artistic furniture and accessories, while carefully preserving the past.

WRITTEN BY JENNIE PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF

NUNN BERTING

Fly Zone

ave Hall has never flown an airplane and doesn’t have his pilot’s license. But spend a few minutes with the cofounder of El Segundo–based company MotoArt, and you’d never know it. For the Palos Verdes High School graduate who launched the company in 2001 with business partner and friend Donovan Fell, life revolves around everything from fuselages and fuel tanks to propellers and wing flaps.

“Everyone asks me if I fly, and I don’t,” says Dave, who along with Donovan initially started creating and conceiving ideas for functional furniture designs crafted from retired commercial and military airplane remnants in his former garage in Palos Verdes. “I always say that there’s something fascinating about aviation. But what little boy doesn’t ‘fly’ around his room with his arms out? Growing up, I always loved making models.

My whole room was filled with airplane models.”

Standing in an expansive, 18,000-square-foot warehousegone-museum and workroom, it’s hard not to stare. “There’s a lot of history here, and every piece has a story,” says Dave, of the company with dealer showrooms in Maryland, Sydney, China and the Czech Republic. “It’s super-clean in here, and an interesting little side gig for us is that we’re known for our holiday parties. So about two years ago we started doing private events here for Northrop Grumman, SpaceX, Hilton hotels, bar mitzvahs. You name it, we’ve had those types of parties.”

A DC-6 airplane (once used by The Monkees for touring in 1967) hangs from the ceiling, while old business class seats anchor the entrance to the warehouse, a mounted DC-3 nose hangs above the workshop and a rare F-86 Sabre culled from the Pima Air & Space Museum resides outside in the yard. Dave pulls out a book of custom guitar designs for Fender’s Stratocaster (not yet in production) topped with B-25 airplane skin.

There’s not much MotoArt isn’t making—including a Boeing 747 jumbo jet conference table with internal LED lighting and half round tempered glass top that fetches $35,000; a Boeing 737 fuselage on casters that doubles as a partition; a C-124 cargo bed with original tie-down rings and a leather upholstered footboard; and a B-52 bomber flap conference table priced at $75,000.

“Everything we build is really authentic,” adds Dave, revealing that they have a large yard with stored aircraft in Palmdale.

“The only thing that we really kind of reproduce are what we call the Stearman. You can see what the old wooden wings looked like [points above], and they weren’t strong enough to support the glass, so we started replacing with new wings.”

Walking through the busy warehouse with polishing and sanding machines going at full speed, Dave points to some of

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the work in progress including a fuselage bench with an upholstered seat for a restaurant on the East Coast and two 747 cells for an entryway piece lined with lights for an office building.

“Our clients are aerospace, production companies, law firms,” explains Dave, pointing to the ceiling. “Here we have all of our antique air frames. We have DC-3, and DC-4s and WWII B-25 parts and F80s. This is really where all our money is at. But what we get a lot of today is commercial aircraft like the 737s, the 747s and the stuff we fly on today. We look high and low to find the antique stuff, and we pay a premium for it. We’ve gotten parts from Thailand, Florida and Alaska.”

As we continue the tour, Dave gestures to other rare artifacts, such as a WWI Fokker they uncovered in a barn in Van Nuys. “It’s not every day that you find a Fokker,” he says.

Dave consulted with a curator from Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, who laboriously inspected and assessed the plane and discovered that it was used in the war film Hell’s Angels directed by Howard Hughes, and also a British Nat wing. “I think that’s why the events are so special, because it’s literally like a museum here now with what we’ve designed.”

was a very rough beginning and it’s been a long road, but now we’re known all over the world and giving these pieces a second life. I love making people go, ‘Wow!’” Long hours also meant traveling the globe and visiting domestic “boneyards” in Roswell, New Mexico, the Mojave Desert and Goodyear, Arizona. But post-9/11, it’s much tougher to get coveted pieces from military aircraft—with the government ban on the sale of retired military planes.

“We do a lot with fuselage windows because with all of these aircraft retiring, it’s really the one common denominator of something that we have a lot of. We have an endless supply of windows,” says Dave. “We make picture frames out of them, beds, conference tables, desks, couches, coffee tables … and it has a very distinctive look that everyone kind of recognizes.”

TAKING FLIGHT Dave, who grew up helping his father in the petroleum industry designing gas stations and fuel tanks, admits he gained strong skills in sales and marketing through that experience. “I got the entrepreneur bug from my father,” he explains. “I was kind of aimless and didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I knew I was good at sales and marketing.”

Through an ad in the Los Angeles Business Journal, he found a job making signs at American West Signs (where he first met Donovan) for clients such as Dodger Stadium, Disneyland and Universal Studios. “I’ve never taken an art class in my life, and now I’m giving art lectures,” says Dave, who worked there for eight years and now gives annual Art vs. Commerce lectures at Art Center in Pasadena and Otis College. “I didn’t know a thing about signs, but Donovan and I became like ‘the duo.’”

As a side job, Dave was exhibiting a salvaged propeller-turnedsculpture dating to WWII at the Rose Bowl Swap Meet (priced at $1,500). When it sold, he thought he might be on to something, and they ultimately bought eight propellers and decided to debut them at a Barrett-Jackson show in Scottsdale, Arizona.

“Everyone thought we were building an airplane in my garage,” laughs Dave, who used money from his own home as an investment in the business. He began sanding and transforming the pieces into functional art. They sold all eight at the show, but an unexpected car fire on the road trip back destroyed all of the pieces. They had to start from scratch.

Over breakfast, they jotted notes on designs they envisioned. “It

Digest, Yachting, Men’s Journal and Luxe.

They specialize in custom projects such as a massive, L-shaped bar made from a fuselage with a price tag of $60,000. The company (and its art) has also received its share of onscreen appearances in films such as Magic Mike and Magic Mike XXL and on Discovery Channel in an eight-show series called Wing Nuts in 2004. The Jumbo Jet conference table is also being featured in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! A little more than a year ago, Dave inadvertently began another line when he made himself a laser-etched luggage tag cut from the skin of an old aircraft, and also began making mirrors from old fuselages (replacing the windows with glass.) That single tag, aptly named Plane Tags (from $20-$85; planetags.com), launched a frenzy for small-scale items (think an F-86 Sabre and an old H-21B that got ditched in the Atlantic and provided by the Pima Air Museum) and an affordable option for people who still want a piece of aviation history.

Dave, a father of two children, confesses he still loves coming to work and gets in at 5 a.m. every morning to get a head start on the rest of the crew. “I think it gets back to making the impressions and hearing people’s stories … and being able to connect to people in a more emotional way.”

“You don’t have to be an airplane nut to enjoy what we do,” he adds. “It’s the people who don’t fly and the people who have always wanted to fly. And everyone has their favorites.”

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CRUISE CONTROL “We’ve hardly advertised at all,” says Dave. “When we first started, people wouldn’t give us the time of day.” Today MotoArt has more than 150 designs and has snagged editorial coverage in more than 500 publications such as Maxim, Wired, Robb Report, Architectural

Visit MotoArt in person at 119 Standard Street in El Segundo.

310-375-4531, motoart.com

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STRIP e cafe

“honest food from a chef-driven kitchen”

at Palos Verdes Art Center Lunch Dinner Special Events 5504 West Crestridge Rd, Rancho Palos Verdes / 310.541.2479 / CafeStripe.com

FIND US SOCIALLY

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/OurSouthbay

@OurSouthbay

/OurSouthbay

/OurSouthbay

ourventurablvd.com

An artful itinerary in Holland’s eclectic capital WRITTEN BY ELIZA

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KRPOYAN

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msterdam in and of itself is a work of art. The colorful capital city of the Netherlands is celebrated for its architecture, canals built in the 16th century and preservation of centuries-old buildings. It has also served as home for artists including Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer, Vincent Van Gogh and Piet Mondrian (just to name a few). It’s a must-visit destination for art aficionados and history enthusiasts.

Among the world’s most renowned—and largest—art museums is the Rijksmuseum. Located in Museum Square, the 19th-century building closed its doors for 10 years as it underwent renovations. The 375 million renovation (in euros) was unveiled four years ago.

The collection of works covers 800 years of Dutch history— from the Middle Ages to present day. The castle-like museum houses masterpieces including Van Gogh’s Self-portrait, Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and four 17 th-century works by Vermeer including The Little Street and Woman in Blue Reading a Letter.

Near the Rijksmuseum are two more must-visit museums: the Van Gogh Museum, which exhibits the richest collection of his work, and the Stedelijk Museum, where 90,000 modern and contemporary art and design works are on display.

“The Rijksmuseum took twice as long to complete and twice the budget,” says Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam’s creative director, Jacu Strauss. “It was worth it.” The South African interior designer tapped for the refurbishment of the historic hotel drew inspiration from the Rijksmuseum. “It’s a spectacular museum,” he says.

Seeing the “Old Masters” and how they were showcased inspired him most. Like the Rijksmuseum, Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam, which sits along the canals, is protected from any structural changes. The hotel is comprised of 25 canal houses built in the 17 th and 18 th centuries. They are connected to each other through a labyrinth of corridors.

“I loved that bit of mystery,” Strauss says about the unknown history of some of the buildings. “Sometimes I would lay awake at night and come up with dreams of the memories that may have lived here at some stage.”

Guests walking through the corridors can distinguish where a building begins and ends because each canal house is adorned with a different wall and carpet color. Strauss quips that it wasn’t until he ordered the carpets for the corridors that he understood the scale of the hotel.

Throughout the hotel, numerous old portraits hang from brass railings. The lobby displays Strauss’ biggest splurge: an oversize contemporary painting by Richard Kuiper. At first glance the work appears to be a still life portrait like that of Old Masters from the 17th century. Upon closer examination, it’s apparent that the items in the portrait are formed from plastic.

Every room, hallway, courtyard and corner of the hotel offers a chance for discovery. For instance, one of the three inner courtyards displays a five-story bicycle installation.

Twenty salvaged bicycles from Amsterdam’s canals (up to 15,000 bicycles are retrieved from the canals every year) are

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MUSEUM IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHED BY ERIK SMITS AND JOHN LEWIS MARSHALL

Feature Hed

Feature Hed

suspended along the courtyard’s stark white wall.

There’s more art to discover in the hotel’s “Extraordinary Suites.”

In addition to the hotel’s 225 rooms, five suites reflect what Strauss imagined the homes of various Dutch collectors would look like.

Each suite has its own private entrance like a canal house.

The Art Collector’s Suite showcases art collected by the hotel over the years. In the wide, gallery-inspired hallway is a massive interpretation of The Last Supper. Hals Brunch by Thierry de Cromieres features cans of beer, M&Ms, hamburgers, a laptop, cellphone and skateboard. Other suites include the Antique Collector’s Suite and the Music Collector’s Suite.

To see how an Old Master lived in real life visit the Rembrandt House Museum, where Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn lived for 20 years. Located in the center of Amsterdam, the museum exhibits not only his life but also an almost-complete collection of his etchings as well as paintings by other artists including his teacher Pieter Lastman.

Visitors to Amsterdam Canal Painting can learn to paint like Vincent Van Gogh. Owned by Dutch artist Minerva, the sundrenched studio is a short bike ride from Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam.

Choose from one of Van Gogh’s masterpieces to recreate and learn about his life and work while painting and sipping mimosas.

Enjoy art in the form of food at Chef Jaimie van Heije’s namesake restaurant. Choose from a three- to eight-course dinner with wine pairings and enjoy a memorable meal. Attention is paid to every detail of each dish and its presentation. Decked out with noteworthy art, the restaurant, in collaboration with Dutch neo-pop artist Selwyn Senatori, could also pass as a gallery. 

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59 years of

caring and sharing

An Elegant Even ing of adventur e an d Tropical Escape To beneet local philanthropies supported by the Palos Verdes Junior Women’s Club

Saturday, March 18, 2017 6:00 pm to Midnight

Trump National Golf Club - Rancho Palos Verdes Dinner, Dancing, Open Bar, Entertainment, Casino, Cigar Bar, Silent and Live Auction $225 Per Person - $250 After March 1 - Limited to 250 Guests FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO PURCHASE TICKETS VISIST WWW.PVJUNIORS.ORG PROGRAM ADVERTISING AND SPONSORSHIP ALSO AVAILABLE

At Manhattan Pacific Realty, you can rest easy knowing that you are working with some of the highest caliber real estate agents in the area.”

– RICHARD HAYNES, OWNER

REAL ESTATE E D I T E D BY

LAURA WATTS LAUREN PRESSEY & SHANE O’DONNELL

P H O T O G RA P H E D BY

Our homes are where we recharge and connect—where memories are made. And for most of us, they are the most important investments in our lives. With so much at stake and amidst today’s complicated marketplace, it is essential to make informed, smart decisions. That’s where an accomplished real estate agent comes in. Whether buying or selling, you want an agent who has the experience and skills to complete a smooth and successful transaction. That describes the local real estate professionals you’ll meet on the following pages.

They’re seasoned experts who know not just how to get a job done—but well done.

96 RICHARD HAYNES

108 KAREN ANDERSON

Manhattan Pacific Realty

Keller Williams Realty

98 LAUREN COTNER &

109 KERRY L. DAWSON

BRIAN DITTMAR Teles Properties

100 ELDRED GROUP

RE/MAX Estate Properties

104 TERRY NIEMANN

110 LYNN KIM

Terranea Real Estate

111 SERENE SULPOR &

Strand Hill Properties | Christie’s International Real Estate

107 KRISTEN NOVOA

Vista Sotheby’s International Realty

BARRY SULPOR Strand Hill | Christie’s International Real Estate

112 AMIR AMIRI & RODMAN AMIRI

106 ANGELA SABATASSO

Keller Williams Palos Verdes

Richard Eldred & Millie Harris

102 SHERI MCHALE

NW Real Estate Brokers

Merit Real Estate

113 HUNTER MASON REALTY 114 ALISON CLAY-DUBOFF

Salty Water Properties, Inc. | RE/MAX Estate Properties

115 THE KONDO GROUP

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Richard Haynes Broker/Owner

Manhattan Pacific Realty 2615 Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 100 Hermosa Beach 310-379-1724 manhattanpacificrealty.com

FAST FACT Richard has worked real estate for the past decade and founded Manhattan Pacific Realty five years ago.

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fter obtaining his real estate license while attending USC Marshall School of Business, Richard Haynes worked in the home lending field.

He then started Elwood Capital Group, Inc.— a real estate investment firm and brokerage—prior to founding Manhattan Pacific Realty. Richard’s team is comprised of agents who specialize in South Bay real estate—from luxury homes to investment property. Manhattan Pacific Realty has closed transactions as far north as Playa Vista and Inglewood all the way down south to the Palos Verdes Peninsula; they specialize in the Beach Cities of Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo, as well as Palos Verdes.

What trends do you foresee for the 2017 real estate market in Southern California?

“My forecast is that luxury real estate is out and affordable homes are in. High-end properties by the beach and the large square footage with big views in Palos Verdes will continue to slow. Wealthy and established home owners have had their fill of South Bay real estate.

Look for Generation X and Millennials to start diving into homes east of Sepulveda/Pacific Coast Highway along with RPV, RHE and PVP. With The Fed recently raising interest rates and projected to continue raising multiple times in 2017, I believe this will push many buyers off the fence. There will be a rush of buyers looking to beat rising interest rates as homes become more unaffordable due to expensive mortgage payments.”

How do you give back to your community?

“I am proud to be a member of USC Marshall Partners, where we donate and raise money for the Marshall School of Business and the Leventhal School of Accounting.”

How long have you worked in this area of California?

“I have been working in the South Bay for 17 years! That is if you include my work in high school as an umpire and referee for Palos Verdes Little League and the Palos Verdes Basketball Association. I also worked internships for Teresa C. Deane & Associates and Paolucci Salling & Martin, both in Malaga Cove Plaza, along with Casa Capital, Inc. in Redondo Beach before graduating college. Post-college, I have been in real estate for all 10 years in the South Bay starting from a desk in my apartment bedroom to my current 1,700-square-foot office on PCH in Hermosa Beach.”

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What are some of your favorite neighborhoods?

“In Palos Verdes my favorite neighborhood is Valmonte, where I grew up, along with Malaga Cove Plaza, where I worked internships during my school days. And how can you not love Terrenea and Portuguese Bend? I have lived in Hermosa for many years, and there is no better place to be in your 20s than the Hermosa Sand Section south of the pier. As I grew up, I lived in Downtown Manhattan Beach—such an amazing place. My first job post-college was in Redondo Beach, and I think The Avenues and Riviera Village are the most underrated neighborhoods in all the South Bay.” Tell us about your team.

“We have an energetic, young and extremely intelligent team that conducts business with honesty and integrity. With technology changing the landscape of real estate faster than ever before, sellers need a team that is in tune with the latest online marketing techniques while still honoring the tried and true ‘old school’ marketing to sell your home. Every single agent at Manhattan Pacific Realty has experience working on a real estate investment property, whether it is an income property, home flip or development. We believe all real estate agents should be well-versed as a real estate investor.

Our agents know a good deal when they see one and are able to move quickly. All of our buyers are educated like seasoned investors, and we believe that our clients acquire some of the best home and investment property deals in the South Bay.” What additional services does your company offer clients?

“In addition to selling homes, we offer our clients a unique insight into investment property and building the home of their dreams. We have many years of investment experience and offer advice on building wealth through income property and purchasing land to develop the home of your dreams. Our current clients have made healthy profits thanks to our advice when investing in income property throughout the Beach Cities to Inglewood and south Los Angeles markets, and our new favorite city— Oceanside. We also assist clients in assessing land value and building costs to acquire property where they not only can build the home of their dreams but have significant equity when all is said and done.”

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Lauren Cotner & Brian Dittmar Teles Properties 3701 Highland Ave. #200 Manhattan Beach 424-202-3271 (Lauren) 424-835-1047 (Brian) laurencotner.com briandittmar.com

FAST FACT When she’s not working, Lauren spends time with her 16-year-old daughter, Lily, her 22-year-old son, Morrison, and her two dogs, Oreo and Pismo. Brian enjoys playing beach volleyball at 4th Street in Manhattan Beach and eating super-deluxe burritos from El Tarasco.

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rian Dittmar and Lauren Cotner have assisted buyers and sellers with residential real estate for a combined 24 years, serving more than 300 families. They work with Teles Properties, a boutique, luxury real estate firm headquartered in Beverly Hills with offices located throughout California.

Brian previously worked as a location scout for feature films and television shows.

He is passionate about California architecture and owns several investment properties. He became a real estate agent in 2012 and is certified as a First-time Buyer Specialist with the California Association of Realtors).

Lauren has worked in the real estate industry for the past 18 years. She specialized in the areas of Pacific Beach and La Jolla before returning to the South Bay in 2004 and has worked with Teles Properties since 2014. She is a fourth-generation Californian, a mom and a former customer service representative.

Tell us about your team.

“Our business partnership helps ensure that our clients receive the highest level of service possible while we stay current on the ever-changing laws and regulations. Lauren is the fiesty go-getter that doesn’t take no for an answer. She is an unstoppable force with a can-do attitude. Brian’s laid-back South Bay attitude is the ying to Lauren’s yang, and he brings organization and marketing wizardry to the table.”

What’s the first step to take in a search for a new home?

“A buyer’s consultation. It’s important that we ask all right questions to find clients their perfect home. We encourage them to immediately get pre-approved, because we need a realistic approach to the search. Too many times we’ve seen buyers searching for homes that they believe they can afford, then after talking to us and working with a lender they discover their purchasing power is different than what they thought.”

What is the biggest challenge facing your clients today? How do you help them with those challenges?

“The biggest challenge is that there is too much incorrect information out there. The websites that publish a value of a home make our job difficult, because there is so much to pricing a home: timing, location, condition, schools … just to name a few.”

What are your guiding principles in your daily work?

Lauren: “Gratitude and the ability to bounce back.”

Brian: “Honesty, gratitude and having our client’s best interests top of mind.”

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What additional services does your company offer clients?

Lauren: “We have top-notch marketing with Teles. The #1 thing they do is access 500+ agents with our listings. It’s possible to reach each and every one of their databases, branded with their info. It’s a nice feature ‘cross-marketing.’”

Brian: “We see ourselves as marketing experts in real estate. Our company has developed several tools giving both our buyer and seller clients an advantage over other firms still doing business the old-fashioned way.”

What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

Brian: “I have a knack for analyzing profitable properties and love helping clients build wealth through real estate investments.”

Lauren: “The ability to listen to the customers’ needs. I’m a big advocate for the client. They are looking for leadership, and I bring that to every transaction. Buying or selling a home is emotional … it’s important to keep all parties informed and offer as much transparency as possible. I give a lot of up-to-date information, I know the market inside and out, and I work harder/ smarter than most people.”

Why did you choose to have a career in real estate?

Lauren: “To make a difference. I believe we are all put on this planet for a reason, and my reason is to help people find their dream homes and build wealth and to guide them through the maze of a transaction.”

What would you like potential clients to know about you?

Brian: “My work with TV and movies sparked by enthusiasm for California architecture, and I brought that passion to my work as a real estate agent. As the owner of investment properties, I am well poised to offer clients insights into their properties that other agents might miss.”

How do you give back to your community?

Brian: “I volunteer with Meals on Wheels, delivering food, and with The Parkinson’s Association, bringing awareness to the disease that affected my father for so many years before he passed in 2015.”

Lauren: “I volunteer for the No one Dies Alone program at Providence Little Company of Mary. It’s been a life-changing experience to be with people so they are not alone as they pass.”

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Eldred Group Richard Eldred & Millie Harris 1230 Rosecrans Ave. Manhattan Beach 310-503-2519 Richard@EldredGroup.com EldredGroup.com

FAST FACT

Before entering the real estate industry, Richard worked for a decade in finance. He is f luent in three languages and is an avid surfer.

R

ichard Eldred is the team leader of the Eldred Group, part of the Compass residential real estate firm. He opened the first South Bay Compass office last October. Millie Harris is the director of operations for the Eldred Group.

Tell us about your business model.

“We use the Ford business model: Our team is focused on helping our clients over their lifetime, not just on one transaction. Once we understand the goal, we map out a five-year, 10-year and 15-year plan for each client. For example, if a buyer wants to buy in Manhattan Beach and doesn’t have the capital right now, we suggest areas where the client can buy and build equity to get to their dream home faster. We have done this successfully for several clients.”

What are your guiding principles in your daily work?

“Our #1 focus is our clients’ best interest.

We work with each client to understand their goal, and we take time to understand the reason behind their need to buy or sell a home. Then we build a successful strategy unique to each client.”

Why did you choose to work with Compass?

“Our move to Compass was motivated by one of our core principles: keeping the clients’ best interest at heart. The real estate industry is undergoing massive change, and the need to stay at the forefront is a must. Experts from companies such as Google, Apple and GE are developing the technology at Compass.

Getting our clients the widest exposure and best ranking on the internet is a huge part of our success model.”

Why should sellers list with you?

“Compass is at the forefront of technology, reaching a wider audience of buyers to get our clients the highest market price. We combine this with our proven track record of successful selling strategies, and the numbers speak for themselves. Please see our 40 reviews and our 5-star rating at zillow.com/profile/ Richard-Eldred.”

Why should potential clients trust you to do the best job for them?

“We have a 97% repeat and referral client ratio. We attribute this high success to our three business principles: honesty, integrity and accountability. We are always honest with our sellers about the value of their home. We operate with integrity in all dealings with our clients and the public. We hold ourselves accountable to our word.”

What unique skills to you bring to the table?

“With over a decade of Wall Street experience, I offer a unique perspective to our clients in our approach to real estate. I am in a unique position to simplify the complexity of the buying/selling process. I help our clients understand the numbers and build a strategy to get them the highest rate of return.”

Why should buyers work with you?

“We view low inventory as an opportunity, not an obstacle. Working with the buyer’s goal and price parameters, we find homes off-market at no cost to our buyers. In 2017 we will mail up to 26,000 letters to find a home for our buyers. On average we have our buyers in escrow in less than six weeks.”

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Sheri McHaleMoody RE/MAX Estate Properties 1416 W. 25th St. San Pedro 310-940-1516 SheriMcHale.com

FAST FACT Every year Sheri is honored by RE/MAX as a Top Producer and receives the Platinum Club award—only given to a select number of Realtors nationally.

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heri McHale-Moody has been assisting Southern California sellers and buyers with real estate transactions for more than two decades. Originally born in Hawaii to a Navy family, she moved to Japan, Alaska, Virginia and Washington DC before settling in San Pedro (South Shores) in 1960.

She joined RE/MAX Estate Properties in 1995.

What areas do you primarily specialize in?

“San Pedro (South Shores, Palisades, Vista Del Oro, Point Fermin) and Rancho Palos Verdes.”

What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

“I am well-known in the San Pedro area, and I have extensive knowledge of the neighborhoods I service.”

How did you choose to go into the field of real estate?

“My interest in real estate began some 30+ years ago when I started purchasing and selling fixer-uppers. My imagination and creativity, along with my keen sense of value, made this an ideal avenue for my talents. I helped establish the San Pedro Coastline ‘boutique’ satellite office of RE/MAX at 25th and Western in the Von’s Shopping Center.”

What’s your #1 tool for marketing your business?

“Word-of-mouth (referrals) and the internet.”

Why are you passionate about the field of real estate?

“I enjoy helping clients find their dream home and sellers getting top dollar for their property.”

Why should potential clients trust you to do the best job for them?

“My reputation and past referrals say it all.”

What are your guiding principles in your daily work?

“Diligence. And I pride myself in honesty, integrity and personal attention to each and every client, as is evidenced by my many friends, referrals and repeat clients. When you’re ready to sell your home, or buy a new one, my motto is: ‘Call Sheri ... and Start Packing!’”

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How do you make each client feel important?

“Open communication—always.”

Tell us about some of your professional honors and awards.

“I am honored at the RE/MAX awards banquet every year as one of the company’s “Top Producers.” I received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, denoting in excess of $3 million in paid commissions and 7+ years of service with RE/MAX. Other awards I’ve received include the Hall of Fame (2005) and Platinum Club award (yearly), which is the highest annual award within RE/MAX given to a select number of Realtors throughout the nation. I was voted #1 Real Estate Agent in the South Bay by a Daily Breeze reader’s poll in 2002, and I am currently ranked #26 of 650+ agents at RE/MAX Estate Properties.”

What additional services does your company offer clients?

“Free home staging.”

How do you give back to your community?

“Volunteering and hosting fundraisers at my home for the White’s Point Land Convervancy.”

What is your alma mater?

“San Pedro High.”

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

“Travel to Maui and the Colorado River, boating and shopping. I’ve been associated with the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club in San Pedro and the Catalina Island Yacht Club. I am a member of the Elks Lodge #966 and am active in my local community.”

Tell us about your family.

“My husband is a general contractor. My daughter, Summer Ramirez, works on my team and is a licensed Realtor and certified stager.

And I have a 15-year-old grandson, Brandon.”

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Terry Niemann

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Terranea Real Estate

Tell us about yourself.

“I love my job with Terranea Real Estate and have worked with Lowe Enterprises & Two Roads/Destination Hotels since 2010, shortly after the Villas at Terranea were first available for sale. I am married with three adult sons and am a proud USC alum. As a local Palos Verdes resident, I know the area well, which is helpful in advising buyers. We want all of our owners to feel excited, confident about and connected to their resort properties here.”

100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes 310-265-2888 TerraneaRealEstate.com FAST FACT Terry grew up in a real estate family, and her father developed resorts.

erry Niemann, director of sales and marketing at Terranea Real Estate, has worked in the industry for more than 20 years and has been with Terranea Resort since 2010. She graduated from USC and worked as the president of an advertising/PR firm before becoming a licensed real estate broker.

Why should buyers consider The Villas at Terranea?

“With the continuing popularity of owning a second home within close proximity to home, and with California oceanfront real estate being a safe haven for buyers, Terranea Villas are a highly desirable option for real estate buyers seeking a smart way to get the best of all worlds. From California beach homes to luxurious mountain cabins, investment homes are increasing in popularity, and as wealth builders seek ways to lessen tax implications, many are incorporating benefits of the IRS code commonly referred to as the ‘1031 Exchange’—a beneficial tax deferral exchange process used when acquiring and selling property. Through 1031 Exchange, Terranea Real Estate has sold several villas and casitas.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICOLE LEONE

Break down the basics of Terranea Villas.

“Terranea Villas are fee-simple properties, meaning you possess the grant deed and title.

You own it 100% and can take title personally or professionally through an LLC or corporation. It is real property, so you can pass it down through generations or sell it whenever you’d like. These two-, three- and four-bedroom villas are beautifully furnished, completely turn-key and hassle-free with professional property management handled for you. Owners also receive extra resort privileges and special discounts on dining, spa and golf. We have several local owners, who also enjoy Terranea as their country club. Terranea Resort manages your property for you, so it’s the world’s easiest getaway place to come and go as you please—up to 90 nights each calendar year—on your own schedule. When you’re not in residence, you make your villa available

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for other people to rent. This leads us to the 1031 exchange conversation, because this is rental property.”

What is 1031 Exchange, and what are its advantages?

“1031 is an IRS code for a beneficial tax deferral exchange process that essentially allows investors to defer paying taxes on their property when it’s sold—but only if another ‘like-kind’ asset is purchased using the profit made from that property. Terranea qualifies for this benefit. It’s important to note that 1031 Exchange is not solely for real estate, but it’s most commonly used in this regard.

A 1031 Exchange can also be used to defer paying taxes on other assets like artwork, a business or a car. This exchange process has many benefits beyond its tax-saving advantages, especially as investors are wanting to shift their investment focus. For example, if you wanted to exchange a high-maintenance investment for a low-maintenance investment, you may not have to pay significant taxes to do so. You can also use it to move your investment locations without the IRS getting involved.”

Do all real estate transactions qualify for 1031 Exchange?

“No, not all real estate transactions qualify.

Here are eight guidelines to determine if your transaction does: (1) The property must be an investment, not your primary or secondary home. (2) Both properties must reside within the U.S. (3) Properties that are designed for a quick purchase and resale do not count. (4) Properties must be ‘like-kind.’ (5) The replacement property should be of greater value than the original property. (6) Must identify the property you plan to buy within 45 days. (7) Must close within 180 days. (8) One of the most important rules governing the entire 1031 Exchange process is: You may not touch the money of the relinquished property if you hope to avoid the taxes! Consult your financial advisor to see how this might benefit you.”

Do you offer tours of the Villas at Terranea?

“To schedule a private tour of the Villas and discover how you can own a beautifully furnished beach house/rental property, please contact Terranea Real Estate at 310-265-2888, call or text Terry at 424-634-1398, or email info@terranearealestate.com to schedule a time.”

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REAL ESTATE

Angela Sabatasso

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ngela Sabatasso of Strand Hill Properties | Christie’s International Real Estate uses the art of classical feng shui to assist clients in selling luxury homes. She earned the National Association of Realtors®’ Green Designation in 2013—an honor awarded to agents who have extensively studied energy efficiency and sustainability in various facets of real estate. A native of Palos Verdes, Angela graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and lived in Redondo and Hermosa before settling in Manhattan Beach.

Why are you passionate about the field of real estate?

“My passion is living in harmony with the earth, and this starts in the home. As a resource for conscious lifestyles, I believe the home should be as functional and sustainable as it is visually appealing. My clients can rest assured they are living in a toxic-free zone that makes being healthy convenient.”

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Strand Hill Properties | Christie’s International Real Estate What trends do you foresee for the 2017 real estate market in Southern California?

“Many buyers understand the importance of purchasing real estate with good feng shui qualities, and Chinese investors are among the largest group of foreign buyers. The luxury markets are most desired, so our South Bay market is already being impacted by this demand. There’s also an important shift toward sustainable building in order to protect our environment.”

Are you a member of professional networking groups?

“I network weekly with my team at Strand Hill Properties, which is proudly the #1 independent real estate firm in the South Bay. I recently traveled to the Christie’s Luxury Specialist conference, where I gained competitive insight on the high-end global property market, offering clients an unparalleled level of tailored service and global visibility to find the right buyer for any property.”

1131 Morningside Drive Manhattan Beach 310-938-2134 homesandharmonyfengshui.com

Tell us about your business, Homes and Harmony Feng Shui.

“When I began in real estate more than six years ago, I saw a need for a more conscious approach to the industry. I founded Homes and Harmony to merge real estate and feng shui. Using a combination of classical, form, intentional and flying stars feng shui methods, I apply ancient teachings, cutting-edge science and spiritual guidance to sell homes faster for more value and create life-changing results for my clients. I also offer space clearing services for existing homeowners, as well as consult for remodeling and landscaping.”

FAST FACT Angela received her Gold Level Feng Shui Master certification from the International Feng Shui School in 2015 and opened her business, Homes and Harmony Feng Shui, in 2016.

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REAL ESTATE

Kristen Novoa

Realtor®

Vista Sotheby’s International Realty

2501 N. Sepulveda Blvd., 2nd Floor Manhattan Beach 310-318-5954 southbayopenhouse.com

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risten Novoa of Vista Sotheby’s International Realty has spent 17 years as a real estate agent in the South Bay. She is certified in negotiations, luxury home marketing and international property.

Why should potential clients trust you to do the best job for them?

“As a certified negotiations expert, I have had formal training in how to negotiate—probably the most critical aspect of being a Realtor. It is also important to be acutely familiar with our real estate contracts and documents. I keep abreast of changes in our required forms and contracts to keep my client’s best interests at the forefront. I’m here to be their chief strategist and trusted advisor through the entire process.”

What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

“My utmost professionalism and extensive experience selling high-end real estate. I’ve been a top-producing Realtor over the past 17 years and started selling multi-million dollar homes early on in the business. Choice of Realtor is a reflection of you in the Real Estate marketplace. Buyers and Sellers should be represented by a Realtor who is a sharp business professional. I have always been that Realtor, no matter what price point.”

Tell us about your success in real estate.

“I was recently invited to meet His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama at an event held by Women In Compassionate Leadership. It was such an honor, and I was so inspired. He says, ‘If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.’ I realized this has been the secret to my success in this business: always having compassion and a genuine sincerity for the well-being of my clients.”

How do your clients benefit when working with you?

“By always being present and responsive, by being organized and well managed, being experienced in handling all types of transactional scenarios, my negotiating skills, my marketing plan, my undivided attention to each client, and being trusted and respected by other Realtors—which is vital when so much business is done beyond the internet and the Multiple Listing Service.”

FAST FACT Kristen earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in psychology, and before becoming a Realtor she worked as a psychologist and a jury consultant.

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What additional services do you offer your clients?

“A broad database of household resources, from contractors and designers to business connections they may need. I enjoy helping others by paying it forward with a referral if I feel they are good at what they do.”

Disclaimer: Each office is independently owned and operated.

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REAL ESTATE

Karen Anderson

K

aren Anderson has worked in residential real estate sales for the past two decades and joined Keller Williams in 2007. Prior to that she owned her own boutique real estate office.

What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

“I like to think I work well with others. I am attentive to details and stay up-to-date with technology.

I have a team to support me, including two buyer agents, a marketing director and a transaction coordinator to keep things flowing smoothly. These things allow me to give my clients every advantage to have a successful purchase or sale.”

How do you make each client feel important?

“A home is a very personal thing. When someone trusts you to find or sell their home, it’s a huge responsibility but also an honor and a privilege.

We try to make each client feel like they are part of

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Keller Williams Realty our family. I take my time going over contracts and other paperwork to make sure they understand exactly what they are signing. It is part of our job to educate and advise to make sure they get their desired result. This is supposed to be a fun and exciting time for clients—not stressful. It’s MY job to handle the stressful parts.”

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

“There is nothing I love more than spending time with my family: my husband, my daughter and her family here locally. I also have a huge extended family on my husband’s side who are a little farther away, but always a joy to be with!”

What is the biggest challenge facing your clients today?

“One of the biggest challenges for our buyers is on the lending side. After the financial crisis, the banks really tightened up their guidelines.

Although we have seen those loosen up lately,

28901 S. Western Avenue #139 Rancho Palos Verdes 310-251-2883 Karen@PrestigeTeamHomes.com this is still a pretty big deal. This is why it is imperative to meet with your lender early in the process. The market is very competitive for buyers right now, and we have to ‘package’ our buyers in the most positive way. On the selling side, our clients are competing in an internet-driven market. The presentation of their properties has never been more important, and it is imperative that their home makes a great first impression.

This is my specialty!”

FAST FACT Karen has led the top-producing group in her office since 2008. Since 2011 they have been the firm’s Listing Leader and have closed more homes per year than any other agent or group.

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REAL ESTATE

Kerry L. Dawson

Realtor®

NW Real Estate Brokers

Manhattan Beach 310-753-5537 KerryLDawson@aol.com

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riginally from Fargo, North Dakota, Kerry Dawson has been a Realtor in the South Bay for 24 years. She enjoys travel, kayaking, hiking, skiing, cycling and Pilates.

What do you do you love about the South Bay? “I love Southern California and don’t miss the Midwest’s subzero winters. It’s the best place to be a Realtor®. Everyone wants to own in this area. It’s exciting working with clients in what may be the single most significant purchase in their lifetime.”

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“Helping young couples from the beginning of their family life, the addition of children, to the empty-nester stage that may involve several homes and investment properties. I enjoy working with couples moving to the area, as I can educate them about our schools, share my knowledge of the South Bay and find them the perfect home with my networking expertise.”

What is the biggest challenge facing your clients today?

“Not finding homes available on the MLS.” How do you help them with those challenges?

“Many of the homes I sold in 2016 were not on the Multiple Listing Service. I network with agents from many different companies to find homes that are not on the market; many sellers prefer selling in this manner. They just want a handful of top agents to come in with their prequalified clients and make an offer without having open houses. It works for both the buyer and seller.”

FAST FACT

Describe your relationship with your clients.

“It’s a close relationship. I sometimes work a year or two looking for my clients. My clients refer their friends and family to me after they have found a home. I would say it is a great relationship. The best compliment a client can give me is a referral.”

How do you give back to your community?

“I have been a room mom for my two daughters’ classrooms from Montessori through elementary school. I was a volunteer Brownie/Girl Scouts mom and a volunteer team mom who brought the drinks, snacks and made the banner for my daughter’s Little League T-ball team.

I give to various charities in the community, but my main charity is Richstone.”

Kerry moved to the South Bay 27 years ago. She’s originally from Fargo, North Dakota … the very same Fargo brought to light by the Coen brothers.

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REAL ESTATE

Lynn Kim

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ynn Kim, the #1 producing Realtor at Keller Williams Palos Verdes, has worked in residential real estate for 15 years.

She graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

Why are you passionate about the field of real estate?

“I truly enjoy meeting new people and helping strangers. It comes naturally to me because I’ve led a customer service life thanks to my mom, who guided me through volunteer opportunities since I was very young. I worked as a victim’s advocate for the Los Angeles district attorney’s office for a few years, assisting victims of crime through the legal process. Through my civil servant upbringing and having a deep roots in real estate, I became passionate in helping buyers and sellers in real estate.”

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Realtor®

Keller Williams Palos Verdes What trends do you foresee for the 2017 real estate market?

“2017 is going to be a pivotal year for real estate buyers and sellers. It’s going to be a very strong year for real estate because you can still sell for a great value and there are still plenty of buyers willing to purchase due to the relatively low interest rates. However, if the Feds raise the interest rates twice this year, it could be the point that the market shifts towards a buyers market. If the rates increase, there will be fewer buyers who are likely to purchase a home. This can put home sellers in a vulnerable position and ultimately give buyers more leverage.”

What are the guiding principles in your daily life?

“Daily I thank God for all my blessings and my family: two strong, healthy children and a loving husband. Every day I look to find the good in people and the good in every situation. Making

550 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 359 Rolling Hills Estates 310-741-2642 lynnk2luxury.com others feel good and doing good for others is what energizes me.”

How do you give back to the community?

“Having been raised in Palos Verdes Estates, going through the Palos Verdes Unified School District and now having children attending school in the district, I am a major donor to our Palos Verdes Education Foundation. I have a passion for underprivileged children, so I am a sponsor of Royal Family Kids, which gives foster children a week at an enrichment camp. I also donate to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association. ” FAST FACT In her free time, Lynn enjoys figure skating with her daughter. Growing up, she was a competitive figure skater.

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REAL ESTATE

Serene Sulpor & Barry Sulpor

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ealtors Serene Sulpor and Barry Sulpor have more than 30 years real estate experience. In addition, Serene has a master’s degree in negotiation that helps clients during a transaction. Barry previously worked as a marketing director for IBM and Xerox and has extensive experience in online and print media marketing.

Strand Hill/Christie’s International Real Estate 1131 Morningside Drive Manhattan Beach 310-991-2994 sb.beachhomes@gmail.com

Why do you brand yourselves as “The Matchmakers”?

“We truly feel a Realtor is not a salesperson; they are a matchmaker. We match sellers and buyers worldwide and introduce people to homes until they fall in love with one. We take pride in doing that everyday.”

owners 55 and older often contact us to take advantage of the property tax relief benefits available through California Proposition 60, which is often the deciding factor that enables a homeowner to make a change.”

Serene: “We also have a network of investors and builders who look to us to find homeowners who want to sell in an all-cash ‘as-is’ purchase of their older homes. These homes are later renovated or built out for resale. We have two brand new Manhattan Beach homes coming on the market soon as a result of these relationships.

Whatever the particular goals are in selling or buying a home, clients tell us they like working with us because we truly listen and care about their needs.”

them after years of home prices surging in the Beach Cities, it’s now beginning to reflect a more conventional market as a result of rising interest rates, among other factors.”

Serene: “There is still a limited supply of homes for sale in most Beach City neighborhoods, so it remains an excellent market for sellers. And buyers are flocking to the South Bay because of our award-winning schools, beach lifestyle and the other amenities families want in a community.

These factors create a positive and sustainable real estate market for everyone.”

What’s your #1 tool for marketing your business?

Barry: “Referrals from clients, friends and neighbors are our main pipeline for new listings and buyer opportunities. In addition, home-

What trends do you foresee for the 2017 real estate market in Southern California?

Barry: “Reporters for The Los Angeles Times and other media often contact us for our opinion on real estate trends in the South Bay. We tell

Serene and Barry, originally from Chicago, met in college in Los Angeles and moved to Manhattan Beach shortly after their daughters were born.

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FAST FACT

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REAL ESTATE

Amir Amiri & Rodman Amiri

Merit Real Estate 2304 Artesia Blvd., Redondo Beach 310-379-4444 meritrealestate.com

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erit Real Estate is a neighborhood real estate brokerage founded in 1989 by broker Amir Amiri. Broker associate Rodman Amiri joined the team in 2006. Merit’s specialty is new construction in the Beach Cities, with a primary focus on North Redondo Beach. However, their 40 to 50 projects each year span Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Lomita, Hawthorne and Gardena.

Amir earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in civil engineering from USC. Rodman also attended USC, earned a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Management and Planning with an emphasis in Real Estate Development.

Why should potential clients trust you to do the best job for them?

“Integrity is the #1 characteristic you will find in a Merit agent. We know that buying a home can be one of the biggest financial decisions of someone’s life, and to facilitate that process, transparency and honesty are crucial to keep a client happy.”

What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

“The personal service we bring to our clients.

It has created lifelong clients for us that keep us in business. Treating people right and truly looking out for their best interests—that’s what makes us the best. Merit Real Estate lists 40 to 50 new construction homes every year, and we pride ourselves on keeping our clientele happy.

This is best shown on our Yelp, Trulia and Zillow profiles.”

How do you make each client feel important?

“We are a small boutique firm. When you work with one of our agents, you get the whole team.

Most of our clients know our entire staff by name, and we’re all here to help in every aspect of a transaction.”

What is your #1 source for finding new clients?

“Referrals and reputation. About 90% of our clients are via word-of-mouth and repeat business.

In our industry, there is no greater compliment than a client coming back to you. It shows that there is trust and satisfaction from the client.”

FAST FACT Merit Real Estate sponsored U.S. Olympic volleyball team members Jake Gibb and Casey Patterson, who won the Manhattan Beach Open 2016.

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In what ways is your firm a great place to work?

“We are like a family here at Merit Real Estate.

We don’t compete with each other; we all like to help each other grow.”

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REAL ESTATE

L to R: Jennifer Hernandez, Tanya Koutko, Ursula Mix, Courtney Self, Nari Weller, Wendy Miller & Patricia Gowda

Hunter Mason Realty

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unter Mason Realty is a full-service real estate company that opened its doors in 2010 with two agents and today has more than 30 agents.

What makes Hunter Mason special?

“We are committed to providing the best real estate experience for our clients, but what makes our firm special is our team of amazing agents and support staff. Here is what they have to say about our company.”

Jennifer Hernandez, Marketing Coordinator: “I’m here to assist our agents with everything from postcard mailings to updating their social media, and I tailor my service to the needs of the individual agent.”

Tanya Koutko, Sales Associate: “Working with international clients and translating their customs into our business environment is one of the biggest challenges I encounter. I’m committed to informing and connecting the global community.

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23848 Hawthorne Blvd.

Suite 100, Torrance 310-373-3331 HunterMason.com I offer not only real estate expertise but a lifestyle to go with it.”

Ursula Mix, Sales Manager/Mentor: “The market is always evolving, and keeping all of my clients informed is high priority. The investors I work with have a high level of trust in my knowledge of the market and trends that are happening.”

Courtney Self, Broker/Owner: “My real estate career has been built on referrals. Personal service is the cornerstone of my business, and I am humbled by the fact that my clients trust me to handle what is usually the largest single investment they have: real estate. They not only trust me with their transactions but also refer me to their friends and family. The biggest challenge we’ve been experiencing is a lack of good inventory for our residential as well as our investor clients.”

Nari Weller, Sales Associate: “I am my clients’ exclusive real estate sales advocate. I represent their interests and bring my extensive network of business professionals and community connections to them.”

Wendy Miller, Office Manager: “I handle all of the Hunter Mason Realty office operations. I ensure that the office runs as smoothly and effectively as possible for each and every agent and do it with a smile and an awesome attitude!”

Patti Gowda, Sales Associate: “I continuously work to find property to fit the needs of my buyers. When inventory is low, I proactively seek properties for my clients by canvassing their desired neighborhoods and contacting homeowners looking for potential sellers. I understand what my clients want, and I get it for them.”

FAST FACT Several Hunter Mason Realty agents hold the Palos Verdes specialist designation; one is an attorney; several speak more than one language; and many participate in leadership roles with local boards of Realtors and the Women’s’ Council of Realtors.

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REAL ESTATE

Alison Clay-Duboff

Salty Water Properties, Inc. RE/MAX Estate Properties

1040 Manhattan Beach Blvd.

Manhattan Beach 310-200-3037 alisonisrealestate.com

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ealtor Alison Clay-Duboff, president and owner of Salty Water Properties, Inc., represents sellers, buyers and investors across Los Angeles and globally. She is in the top 10% of RE/MAX Estate Properties agents and has worked in the industry for almost 10 years. Alison is a graduate of George Washington University and the American University of Paris, France.

What’s your #1 tool for marketing your business?

“I have created a recognizable brand/image. This individuality and creative approach mirrors each client’s home; they are all unique.”

How do you make each client feel important?

“My clients tell me they feel as if they are my ONLY client; this is the desired goal, but of course I serve many clients simultaneously. Being available reinforces a sense of security. I’ve been told I exiude an uncanny and capable comprehension of my clients’ concerns, goals and dilemmas. I also throw a great client appreciation party every year!”

What is the biggest challenge facing your clients?

“Identifying and tackling potential issues before they arise is a surefire recipe for avoiding bigger problems further along in a transaction. Being nimble within a transaction takes experience. As always, lack of inventory is one of biggest obstacles, and that’s where my networking connections and relationships make the difference.”

Tell us about your own home.

“After 16 years my husband and I went through the same process in which I represent my clients every day: We sold our home and bought our dream home. This deeply personal experience has given me an even higher level of heightened empathy and understanding of the emotional and factual trials and tribulations of each transaction I experience with my clients. It made me a better Realtor.”

FAST FACT Alison donates to Children’s Hospital LA from every commission earned, spends time visiting local senior citizens, mentors students from her alma mater and future generations of real estate practitioners, and—along with her dogs— volunteers ringing the Salvation Army bell every winter.

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What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

“As a global real estate practitioner, the space between work and pleasure overlaps. My craft is my passion; I have the ability to blend both into the most amazing combination! For example, in June I was invited to give a large presentation in Rome. I prepared a comprehensive audio/visual experience, and it was translated into Italian. It was an intensive project, but it was thrilling! At the same time, I explored and researched Italian property opportunities for my clients.”

What do your clients appreciate about you?

“That I’m a social media wiz. Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.”

License # 01786922

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REAL REALESTATE ESTATE

L to R: Shima Razipour, Michelle Nishide, Meg Puccinelli, Morvarid Sepehrnia, owner Tadashi Kondo & Victoria Brown

The Kondo Group

550 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 359 Rolling Hills Estates 310-567-8790 thekondogroup.com

T

staying active on Instagram, Facebook, etc. Much of our business is from referrals, so we always make sure to provide the highest level of service, work ethically and maintain great relationships with past clients.”

Why should potential clients trust you to do the best job for them?

“Our focus is always on serving our clients with honesty, integrity and discretion as a dependable and knowledgeable realtor committed to exceptional results. Each client is taken care of, and all transactions are handled with personalized service.”

What areas do you primarily specialize in?

“Our team is based in the South Bay. We have extensive knowledge of the area, and most of our team grew up in Palos Verdes. We also do business all over the Greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas. We take our proven marketing techniques into every market, resulting in top dollar for our clients. In today’s economy, we need to be prepared for everything, and we pride ourselves in our knowledge, efficiency, and support.”

he Kondo Group is a team of five fulltime agents and one assistant/transaction coordinator working under the umbrella of Keller Williams Palos Verdes Realty.

The majority of the team has lived their entire lives in Palos Verdes and the South Bay.

What’s your #1 tool for marketing your business?

“We use all the latest technologies in real estate.

Most buyers begin their real estate search on the internet, so that’s where we put our biggest efforts and marketing dollars. We focus on social media,

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How do you give back to your community?

“Every year Keller Williams has a national ‘Red Day’ on May 12, where Realtors give back to our communities. Last year, we re-vamped Hesse Park

in Palos Verdes. Our team members are also a part of The Young Professional Network, which puts on community service days where we give back to the community. As a team we love to be involved with dog rescues, U.S. Vets, and even donating to children’s education throughout the world.”

Tell us about a recent accomplishment.

“For three years, straight our team has won the Double and Triple Gold Awards for our company, and we have been in the top 2% of producers within Keller Williams Palos Verdes.”

FAST FACT The Kondo Group’s agents are world travelers, having visited Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, Central America, Europe, Southeast Asia and Japan in 2016.

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New American Funding’s Manhattan Beach team has built its outstanding reputation based on both the experience and skillset of the individual loan officers, as well as the industry-leading array of loan products. The ability to consistently navigate the many layers of regulations and guidelines that are a part of today’s lending environment—and do so while providing the best-inclass client service—truly sets the team apart.”

–DAVID GENTRY AND ERIC FORMILLER, BRANCH MANAGERS

MORTGAGE W R I T T E N BY

LAURA WATTS LAUREN PRESSEY & SHANE O’DONNELL

P H O T O G RA P H E D BY

Whether you’re buying a new home, an investment property or refinancing your existing property, it makes sense to have assistance when navigating the financing path. A mortgage broker will be your liaison with the bank—gathering important information, helping you find the best solutions and streamlining the process for you. If you’d like a more personal touch when seeking real estate financing, read on to learn about the area’s key players in the mortgage banking industry.

118 REGAN HAGESTAD

120 CYRUS SHARGH

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

122 YANN FARD &

123 NEW AMERICAN FUNDING

Watermark Home Loans

AARON ANVARIPOUR Redondo Mortgage Center

124 FRANK KOSTRENCICH &

MICHAEL MARDESICH C2 Financial – South Bay

REAL ESTATE

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MORTGAGE

Regan Hagestad Watermark Home Loans 840 Apollo Street, Suite 205 El Segundo 310-607-0131 welcometoregan.com

FAST FACT Regan is a member of West Coast Sports Associates, a nonprofit dedicated to giving economically disadvantaged children in Southern California the opportunity to participate in sports. Through Commissions for Education, he donates 1% of all commissions to local schools.

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egan Hagestad and his team provide home loans for the purchase of a new home or a refinance on an existing home. Regan has worked in the finance industry for 14 years and joined Watermark in 2008. He lives in Hermosa Beach with his wife, Laura. They have a young son and another baby on the way.

Why are you passionate about the field of mortgage?

“Very few industries combine the competitive nature of real estate with markets and finance. As a former athlete, I love competition. With a background in finance, the mortgage industry is a perfect fit. I enjoy working with home buyers to not just secure a loan but to ensure that it is the right loan for their overall financial picture.”

Tell us about some of your achievements.

“With more than 2,150 closed loans in 14 years and closing more than $100,000,000 in 2016, we’ve established ourselves as the premier lender in the South Bay.” What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

“Our reputation, results and client testimonials speak for themselves. There have been many times where our clients were in a multiple-offer situation, and the listing agent recommended that their seller accept our offer over another one because they know we close and close on time. There is no better compliment than having a family and a real estate agent put their trust in us. We make lending better, and we give our clients and real estate partners the respect and honesty they deserve. That’s why so many home owners in the South Bay have entrusted us with such a life-changing decision.”

What are your guiding principles in your daily work?

“It’s a pretty simple approach of ‘always do the right thing.’ Getting a home loan isn’t just about the interest rate and monthly payment—there is a person and family involved.

Doing right by them is how I’m able to run my business purely based off the referrals of real estate agents and past clients.”

Tell us about your team.

“I have three people on my team and a dedicated back office at our corporate location.

My team consists of my processor, Christa, who handles all of our paperwork and has been with me for more than 11 years. Kristen is our team’s underwriter, and she underwrites loans upfront as well as works with the underwriting department once loans are

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submitted to ensure they are approved with very minor amounts of trailing documents, if any at all. Matt is a licensed mortgage loan originator who works with our clients upfront and throughout the loan process to ensure they are always informed and that we have a smooth transaction.”

What’s the first step to take in a search for a new home?

“Getting pre-approved for a home loan. The only difference is whether or not a client gets a meaningful pre-approval or just a piece of paper. We take it a couple steps beyond most lenders when we pre-approve clients. We not only determine if they qualify; we also fully underwrite loans during our pre-approval process. In most companies this happens after an offer is accepted, but since I have a dedicated underwriter on my team we do it prior to even making an offer. We also develop a road map with a variety of options for clients. This way when they start looking at properties, not only will they know if they can truly qualify but they will also know what their payments are and any other lending terms prior to even seeing the home for the first time. This puts our buyers at a huge advantage because in this competitive market, many times buyers need to make a decision quickly. We’ve done all of the heavy lifting and answered all of the questions prior to them even seeing the home, which gives clients the peace of mind they need to make these types of decisions in an educated way.”

Tell us about your background.

“I have a BA in business management, a BRE Broker License and a NMLS Loan Originator License. I joined Watermark in 2008.”

What’s your #1 tool for marketing your business?

“We work by referral only, so our real estate agent partners and our past clients referrals are our main source of business. We’re fortunate to work with real estate agents from every major brokerage in the South Bay and understand that the relationships we have are the key to our continued success.”

Are you a member of professional networking groups?

“I’m a member of Athletes Touch, which is an organization of former college and professional athletes working together to grow and succeed in business. The sharing of resources between members and the membership base itself is extraordinary. My ability to pass that on to my clients is something that is really important.”

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MORTGAGE

Cyrus Shargh Branch Sales Manager Wells Fargo Private Mortgage Banking 2141 Rosecrans Ave., 4th Floor El Segundo 424-242-9787 BeachCitiesPMB.com

FAST FACT Cyrus and his team at Wells Fargo have served the South Bay since 2007.

W

ells Fargo Private Mortgage Banking serves homebuyers and homeowners who have complex income and asset arrangements, helping them find flexible home financing opportunities that complement intricate financial profiles. Whether clients are looking at luxury homes, pursuing real estate investment opportunities or restructuring their assets to achieve desired financial goals, Wells Fargo has the comprehensive capabilities and full-service financial institution connections to fulfill a complete spectrum of wealth management requirements. Branch sales manager Cyrus Shargh has worked in the mortgage banking industry for the past 27 years, and his team at Wells Fargo has served the South Bay since 2007.

What would you like potential clients to know about you?

“Wells Fargo Private Mortgage Bankers are trained and specialize in analyzing complex finances. We also have specific programs designed for high net worth clients.”

Who is your typical client?

“The homeowner or homebuyer who is looking for a specialist in complex finances and a holistic approach to their finances, to make sure their mortgage financing fits with their overall financial plan.”

Tell us about your team.

“Our team is comprised of 17 private mortgage bankers; on average, each has more than 10 years experience.”

What does it take to be the best in the business?

“Listening to your clients.”

What is the biggest challenge facing your clients today?

“Our expertise helps us guide our customers through the ever-changing mortgage landscape.”

What’s most rewarding about your work?

“To have the trust of our clients and customers to handle not only their single most valuable asset but their HOME is the most rewarding part of our work.”

How do you give back to your community?

“Each year Wells Fargo team members raise money for the nonprofits of their choice, including United Way, during our annual Community Support and United Way Campaign. For several years, United Way Worldwide named Wells Fargo’s annual campaign as the ‘#1 Giving Campaign.’

In addition, team members give to nonprofits throughout the year.”

NMLSR ID 448552

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MORTGAGE

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MORTGAGE

Yann Fard & Aaron Anvaripour

Redondo Mortgage Center 2304 Artesia Blvd. Redondo Beach 310-318-8999 redondomortgage.com

Y

ann Fard and Aaron Anvaripour, senior loan consultants with Redondo Mortgage Center, help clients finance the purchase of residential or commercial properties and/or refinance an existing mortgage. Yann has worked in mortgage banking for five years, and Aaron has been in the industry for 12 years.

Why should potential clients trust you to do the best job for them?

Yann: “I firmly believe integrity, honesty and work ethics are the most important in any business. I offer clients not just the most competitive rates but, most importantly, unparalleled service as their partner who has their best interest in mind. Being equipped with a Six Sigma Green belt, I try to find all the possible ways to improve the service quality on a never-ending basis.”

What’s the first step to take in a search for a new home?

Aaron: “Unless you are paying cash, the first step is to get pre-approved for the loan. It is important to find a mortgage professional with an unparalleled track record who can guide you through the process—someone who is responsive, experienced and trustworthy.”

What distinguishes you as a top professional in your field?

Yann: “Not just doing the job right but the level of professional expertise and service I provide.

Additionally, we are living in a digital era where everything is computerized and digitized. Information is transferred in a much faster pace, and I have the knowledge and expertise coupled with availability to get the job done! What is demanded of an agent in today’s market is to be there at any point of time that your clients need you, and I am there for my clients 24/7.”

How do you make each client feel important?

Aaron: “It’s all about exceptional customer service.

We provide the type of customer service that is rare in today’s business environment. Focusing on our client’s individual needs (and wants) is the key to delivering the type of five-star service that makes them happy. When our clients are happy, they tell their friends and family members about us, they write Yelp reviews for us and they come back to us again and again. When they are happy, we are happy, and everyone feels important.”

NMLS #352552LA, #862460 Cal BRE #01700378, #01917095

FAST FACT Yann holds a master’s degree in business administration specializing in international business; Aaron graduated from UCLA with a degree in economics.

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MORTGAGE

L to R: Eddie Correa, Rick Heard, Michael Herron, Heather Mason, Nathan Staggs, David Gentry, Eric Formiller, Jim Darr, Judy Young, Jorge Pimentel

New American Funding

N

ew American Funding is a privately owned independent mortgage bank that services the residential mortgage market. Based in Southern California, New American Funding is a direct lender offering a wide variety of loan products.

Tell us about your team.

“The Manhattan Beach team is comprised of branch managers David Gentry and Eric Formiller, both of whom are also top producers with more than 30 years of combined experience, as well as a team of loan officers.

Our open collaborative environment allows everyone to benefit.”

How do you make each client feel important?

“We work in an industry where every time we are engaged with a client, the transaction is the single most important thing in their lives.

Whether buying a new home or refinancing an existing property, our clients receive thorough and timely updates and have direct access to

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1230 Rosecrans Avenue, #402 Manhattan Beach 844-247-6883

their loan officer. This allows for a true relationship to be built that endures beyond any particular transaction.”

service. This trust was earned one successful closing at a time and has allowed the team to rise to the top of the local lending landscape.”

What areas do you primarily specialize in?

“While New American Funding has the ability to expertly handle most any mortgage need, the Manhattan Beach team has built a reputation in the purchase market. Consistently performing within all contractual timelines—even on the most challenging loan file—is the best gauge of the loan officer’s skillset and the company’s operational effectiveness.”

What’s the first step to take in a search for a new home?

“Be as prepared as possible before starting the search for a new home. By truly engaging with a mortgage professional early on, there is time to identify and resolve any potential obstacles ahead of opening escrow, set accurate limits for what a client can borrower and run through a variety of payment projections.”

Are you a member of professional networking groups?

“As a team, we are the trusted lending partner for many of the top professionals in the South Bay, including Realtors, CPAs, business managers and financial advisors. Our referral partners know that their clients will have access to a wide variety of aggressively priced loan products, while receiving truly outstanding

FAST FACT In 2016, New American Funding was the #1 independent mortgage company for purchase volume in Southern California.

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REAL ESTATE

Frank Kostrencich & Michael Mardesich

C2 Financial – South Bay 304 Vista Del Mar #E Redondo Beach 310-697-3018 loans4socal.com

F

rank Kostrencich and Michael Mardesich are partners of the South Bay net branch of C2 Financial Corporation. They have operated C2 from this location since 2007 and have both been working in the mortgage loan industry for 20+ years in Southern California. Frank and his wife, Karen, are married and have four daughters and live in Rancho Palos Verdes. Mike and his three children live in the Hollywood Riviera.

Why are you passionate about the field of mortgage?

“Every day we get to interact with people who are entrusting us with one of the biggest financial decisions of their life. Helping our clients understand and navigate the sometimes arduous process of obtaining a mortgage is always a rewarding experience. We know that despite our best efforts—and the government’s best efforts to regulate the mortgage industry—our borrowers are too busy to review every last line of every single document. Our borrowers trust us as their mortgage advisor and that the product they are obtaining is in their best interest. We do not take that responsibility lightly. We do what is in the best interest for our client, not what is best for our pocketbook as some other brokers before us have done.”

What’s your #1 tool for marketing your business?

“We work off a strong referral network. We take great pride in knowing our clients and extending an extra personal touch to every deal. The greatest compliment we can receive is a positive referral to another client.”

What areas do you primarily specialize in?

“Although we are based in the South Bay, we do loans for clients from Northern California to San Diego. We are well-versed in all lending programs including conventional, jumbo, alt QM and FHA/ VA. We also are reverse mortgage experts.”

What trends do you foresee for the 2017 real estate market in Southern California?

“We see interest rates starting to rise closer to traditional norms, with much more volatility in the market. People shouldn’t be frightened by rising rates, as it is a sign of a strengthening economy. It may slow down the growth in home values slightly, but the overall trend is positive.

With the current political climate, we may also see improved credit availability and an influx of new mortgage products.”

FAST FACT Frank has a bachelor’s degree in business with an emphasis in finance from CSU Long Beach. Mike has a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and a master’s degree from USC.

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BRE#: 01821025 (C2) | 01024274 (Frank) | 01053119 (Michael) NMLS#: 135622 (C2) | 238594 (Frank) | 242591 (Michael)

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Stunning, panoramic ocean, Queen’s Necklace, city lights views and beyond! This Palos Verdes Estates home features over 3400 square feet of open living spaces with high, vaulted ceilings and a large backyard....perfect for indoor/ outdoor living and entertaining. $2,750,000

Chris Adlam 310.493.7216 www.chrisadlam.com

REAL ESTATE DEP | WHERE WE LIVE

OURSOUTHBAY.COM/REAL-ESTATE

Modern Masterpiece Visually breathtaking, this home was truly meant to be enjoyed. Spaces blend beautifully from inside to outside in this harmonious home, allowing its residents to congregate, entertain and enjoy South Bay living.

Listed by Lynne Lear Strand Hill Properties Christie’s International Real Estate 310-779-1723 ourventurablvd.com S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N

Turn the page for more information.

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ENORMOUS

APPEAL

Created with harmonious scope and scale of space, the magic of this grand home is in the details.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNIKA

LUNDVALL

W

ith abundant lot space to work with, a Manhattan Beach home’s designers saw a unique opportunity to construct a modern dwelling that pushed the boundaries of materials, texture and light with stunning effect.

The result is a masterpiece of indoor and outdoor living that resembles a work of art.

The home’s sculptural exterior of zinc makes an immediate impression. Once you enter the home via a gated private entry and pivoting 250-pound mahogany front door, you begin to appreciate the extraordinary detail that went into its creation. Glass panes and wood soffit soar above, anchored by the “spine” of the structure—a labor-intensive and substantial concrete wall designed to look like fine-grained wood.

Though visually breathtaking, this home was truly meant to be enjoyed. Every inch of the 14,000-square-foot lot has been maximized to encourage a robust and active South Bay lifestyle. Spaces blend beautifully from inside to outside, allowing its residents to congregate, entertain and enjoy life to the fullest.

Soaring ceilings tower over multiple walls of sliding glass doors that open to the outside—creating not only visible space but also a completely fluid floor plan. The visual line pulls the eye through the entire house to reveal numerous outdoor seating areas, as well as the unexpected additional structure of an office pavilion.

Nearly every feature, fixture and furnishing of the home was customdesigned. A two-story dining room features designer John Pomp’s custom Infinity Cluster chandelier of 20 mini-pendants, an 11-foot dining table and a sleek, floating walnut console.

In the adjacent spacious chef’s kitchen, an enormous island of rare, dense volcanic limestone offers the perfect centerpiece for communal gatherings, ideally lit by three showcase glass pendants with a rose goldcolored veneer. Sycamore, walnut and rift oak cabinets line the kitchen, complete with a “steamer oven” wall unit.

The nearby great room hosts a wood and concrete fireplace and a surround sound hidden speaker system built into the ceiling. Tucked away out of sight, a large and colorful mudroom provides a fun place to stash

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backpacks, skateboards and other equipment.

There are four bedrooms and an office pavillion, each with its own thermostat, en suite bathroom with heated floors and walk-in closets with automatic light sensors. Like the rest of the home, the master suite enjoys radiant heating and showcases the most distinguishing characteristic of the entire place: a stunning glass and steel bridge connecting the bedroom to the bathroom.

The lower levels of glazed, Mondrian-like windows are opaque for privacy, but eye-level windows are clear, permitting an abundance of natural light. The master suite’s glass sliding doors are covered with textured electric shades set on timers and programmed into the home’s smart system, which also controls zoning for dimmer lighting, music, heat and air conditioning throughout the house.

Appropriately named the Jewel Box powder room, this intimate space features three floor-to-ceiling Walker Zanger glass tile walls and a very special nighttime surprise: the dancing shadows of exterior plants performing behind a glazed glass wall. For moments of respite, the floating walnut staircase takes you to a landing that accommodates a floor-to-ceiling built-in book/art case, a piano and reading chairs.

Also appearing to float are the white interior walls throughout. They do not hit the floor but rather create a shadow reveal at the base for a clean line effect.

On the ground level, four sets of custom sliding glass walls open to a private outdoor retreat. Designed on concrete pads, two separate living areas feature fire pits, a dining area with built-in BBQ, a BAJA ledge entry swimming pool and the envy of any South Bay local: a sand volleyball court.

Drought-resistant minimal landscaping perfectly complements the home’s instinctually modern lines.

Masterfully placed outdoor lighting creates a nighttime sparkle on the exterior textures. The entire home runs on solar power and comes with an electric car charging station in the three-car garage.

From masterful designs and generous indoor/outdoor living space to eco-friendly features and coveted amenities, this special South Bay home will inspire and impress. 

COMIN G SOON

Coming soon.

Price upon request.

Contact listing agent LYNNE LEAR 310-779-1723 Strand Hill / Christie’s International Real Estate

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st WCR South Bay Charity Golf Tournament

| 2017

MARRiot Golf CouRse Manhattan Beach

Check-In

10:30 AM - 11:45 AM WCR Fun-Putt Contest Networking Lunch

12:00 PM

Shotgun Start

3:30 PM

Hors d’oeuvres Drinks Awards

format: 4-Person Scramble entry Deadline: March 1st, 2017 entry fee: provided by hes c n

:

10:00 AM

Hole the Date

lu

MARCH 22

ND

Box

wednesday

$110 per player $400 4-some

**Register by January 31, 2017 for $95 per player & $360 per 4-some

(Price includes green fees, practice balls, lunch, awards banquet and prizes.)

Not a golfer?

You can still join in the fun at the Awards Banquet Cocktails and light appetizers served between 3-5pm for only $20! *Realtors Only* To purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wcr-1st-annual-golf-tournament-tickets-31364087831 For more information, please contact: Wendy Holt at 310-986-9668 or Joanne Galin at 310-993-5656 Limited sponsorship opportunities are available. To learn more, contact: Traci Horowitz at 310-995-8766 or Elizabeth Harris at 213-254-2413

As seen in Architectural Digest

EXQUISITE CELEBRITY OWNED ESTATE

*Now Pending*

3 9 8 S TA F F O R D R D SHERWOOD COUNTRY CLUB

Picturesque Views Of The Santa Monica Mountains & Built With No Expense Spared.

This Custom Home Provides The Best Of California Living.

6 Beds, 7 Baths

8,456 SF on 1.4 Acres

Offered at $7,495,000 www.398stafford.com

Rami ElminouďŹ

310.947.1180

rami@bcbestates.com

BRE 01434630 200 S PCH, Redondo Beach

a luxury division of

1716 S Catalina Ave, Hollywood Riviera

431 Main Street, El Segundo

4 Must-See Listings

1 SOLD, 1 LEFT! BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION OCEAN VIEW TOWNHOME

COZY BEACH CONDO

535 AVENUE C

77 15TH STREET #9

3 Beds Plus a Loft, 3.5 Baths, 2,600 SF

Amazing Ocean Views, 3 Blocks To The Beach,

3-Stop Elevator, & Extra Large Garage w/ Storage

1 Bed, 1 Bath w/ Steam Shower, Ocean Views, Balcony, Brand New Kitchen, Perfect For 2nd Home Or Great Investment That Would Demand High Rents! Steps Away From

Hermosa Beach Pier, Shops, Restaurants & More!

REDONDO BEACH

HERMOSA BEACH

Asking $1,699,000

Asking $899,000

COMING SOON!

COMING SOON!

OCEAN FRONT ESTATES

LUXURY BLUFF HOME

11 CALLE VIENTO

5 1 7 PA S E O D E L A P L AYA

4 Beds, 3 Baths, Approx. 4,700 SF / Approx. 24,000 SF lot,

Ocean-Catalina Views, One Level w/ open Courtyard,

Like a Model Home, Pristine Condition Built in 2003,

Exquisite Pool & Jacuzzi

5 Beds, 4 Baths, Approx. 3,500 Sq Ft,

Completely Re-Built In 2012, Coastal Plantation Style,

Ocean Front: See, Smell And Hear The Whales,

Ships & Surf 24/7

Asking $4,399,000

Asking $5,999,000

R A N C H O PA L O S V E R D E S

REDONDO BEACH

Gary Elminoufi

310.292.0332

GaryElmo@gmail.com

BRE 01139207

a luxury division of

200 S PCH, Redondo Beach

1716 S Catalina Ave, Hollywood Riviera

431 Main Street, El Segundo

CUSTOM HOME IN PRIME BEACH LOCATION

3 1 1 T O PA Z S T REDONDO BEACH

5 Beds, 4 Baths, 3,019 SF

Amazing Customized Home With Open Floor Concept, Luxury Finishes Throughout, Spacious Patio And Private Backyard

Offered at $1,899,000

Justin Miller

310.619.9389

mrjustinmiller@gmail.com

BRE 01425870 200 S PCH, Redondo Beach

a luxury division of

1716 S Catalina Ave, Hollywood Riviera

431 Main Street, El Segundo

MANHATTAN BEACH ELEGANCE

1740 2ND STREET M A N H AT TA N B E A C H

6 Beds, 5 Baths, 4,012 SF

Bright Open Floor Plan, Sophisticated Finishes Throughout & Spacious Backyard W/ Fire Pit & BBQ

Offered at $2,495,000 or For Lease: $9,500/mo

Justin Miller

310.619.9389

mrjustinmiller@gmail.com

BRE 01425870

a luxury division of

200 S PCH, Redondo Beach

1716 S Catalina Ave, Hollywood Riviera

431 Main Street, El Segundo

“Holly Made Us Feel Like Family…”

“Holly Kauffman was a pleasure to work with! You start out working together in a business relationship but end up in a friendship. She is impossibly easy to get along with and will work incredibly hard to make sure you and your family get just what you are looking for.” ~ Kerry, Palos Verdes Estates

Holly Kauffman

310.345.0165

holly@perfectfamilyhomes.com

BRE 01425870 200 S PCH, Redondo Beach

1716 S Catalina Ave, Hollywood Riviera

a luxury division of

431 Main Street, El Segundo

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated

PRIVATE HERMOSA BEACH ESTATE • 1931 POWER, HERMOSA BEACH Wonderfully appointed 4,004 sq. ft (approx.) two-story home sits on a 10,186 sq. ft. lot just four blocks from the beach. It’s beautiful craftsman style design has been custom-built and maintained to perfection. The open concept layout and ample parking space makes it the ideal space for entertaining large parties of family and friends.

1931POWER.COM • OFFERED AT $4,799,000 • OPEN HOUSE SAT, JAN. 28 & SUN JAN. 29 • 1-4PM

JIM VAN ZANTEN 310.466.1004

WALT SPADONE 310.345.7350

CO-CEO, BROKER, CAL BRE #00544011

DEVELOPMENT PARTNER, REALTOR®, CALBRE #0143434

ROB DEPAOLI 310.896.5343 REALTOR®, CAL BRE #01918925

OMEGA VALENTE 323.612.7403 REALTOR®, CALBRE #07998742

VZG@VISTASIR.COM | THEVANZANTENGROUP.COM

WELCOME TO STRAND HILL Strand Hill Properties is a boutique firm comprised of “The Best of the Best” real estate professionals in the South Bay. With offices located in Manhattan Beach and Palos Verdes, our Strand Hill team includes some of the most highly respected and deeply dedicated real estate professionals, with a combined experience in real estate that is quite exemplary. Their vision and commitment to customer service are invaluable to the South Bay’s luxury property market. Collectively, we sold over $1 BILLION in residential real estate during 2016.

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE Strand Hill is also an exclusive global affiliate of the Christie’s International Real Estate network.

Supported by the world’s premier art auction house, Christie’s International Real Estate represents a global network of more than 1,350 affiliate offices and 32,000 agents across more than 47 countries, offering exclusive home and luxury real estate services to buyers and sellers worldwide. The Christie’s brand is instantly recognizable to clients as a tailored, trusted service that has maintained a high standard of excellence for over 250 years.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Drawing upon their success as one of the world’s oldest art auction houses, Christie’s International Real Estate has evolved into a global authority on the effective marketing of fine properties, providing insightful advisory support along with sensitivity and intelligence. Only the most accomplished real estate brokers at the top of their markets are invited to join the Christie’s network, which is why we proudly display and promote our exclusive Affiliate status.

The art of real estate

Serving the South Bay with an unprecedented combination of knowledge, expertise, reliability and passion….we invite you to experience for yourself “The art of real estate.”

STRAND HILL / CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE 1131 Morningside Drive, 2nd Floor Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 +1 310 545 0707

550 Silver Spur Road, Suite 240 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 +1 310 541 6566

CAL BRE #01968431

info@strandhillproperties.com www.strandhillproperties.com

A RARE OPPORTUNITY IS COMING YOUR WAY

ES I C N RO W

One of the largest estates ever offered in the heart of Malaga Cove in Palos Verdes Estates with panoramic views of the Queen’s Necklace.

A royal wrought iron entrance leads you down a long driveway with massive, historic wooden gates followed by a stone and wood bridge to an oversized circular carport replete with waterfalls and gorgeous landscaping. Family-owned for over 40 years, on apx 4 sweeping acres and 3 parcels of land next to parkland with striking ocean, city and golf course views. This home is apx 10,000 sqft with abundant character, quality, and detail including a sun-drenched pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, citrus and flower gardens, and large grassy areas for reception and entertaining. A truly private compound that is beyond compare. Price available upon request. Coming to market soon.

12 San Miguel, Rolling Hills Estates

5bdrm + Library, 6ba, 4,500+ sq ft Lot size approx. 20,000 sq ft $3,599,000 www.12SanMiguel.com

2249 Via Guadalana, Palos Verdes Estates

4 bdrms, 5ba, 3,789 sq ft Lot size 12,200+ sq ft $2,298,000 www.2249ViaGuadalana.com

HIGH-END LEASES

605 Paseo del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates 6 bdrms, 9 ba, 6,800+ sq ft Lot size 33,000+ sq ft Lease only. $28,000/mo. www.lilyliang.com

2 Buggy Whip Dr., Rolling Hills 4 bdrm, 4 ba, 8,000 sq ft Lot size approx. 2.4 acres $13,500/mo. www.lilyliang.com

24 Narcissa, Rancho Palos Verdes 2bdrm, 2 ba, 1,825 sq ft Lot size approx. 43,000 sq ft $7,500/mo. www.lilyliang.com

LILY LIANG

Executive Vice President, Strand Hill Properties 550 Silver Spur Road, Suite 240, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 14 SOUTHBAY, NOVEMBER 2015 (310) 373-3333 | lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com Cal BRE# 00837794

oursouthbay.com

ManhattanPacificRealty.com 310.379.1724

BRE: 01909107

320 35th Street, Manhattan Beach New Listing Coming Spring 2017 New Construction

•

Two Town Homes

•

Ocean Views

RICHARD HAYNES

310.756.5588

•

richard@manhattanpacific.com

•

BRE: 01779425

Our neighborhood, your home.

RICK EDLER

310.872.4333 CalBRE# 01113145 rick.edler@vistasir.com

DARIN DERENZIS

310.418.6210 CalBRE# 01760239 darin.derenzis@vistasir.com

KITTY EDLER

310.283.8790 CalBRE# 00800837 kitty.edler@vistasir.com

www.edlerderenzis.com

1700 PERCH STREET | SAN PEDRO| $1,195,000

85 LAUREL DRIVE | RANCHO PALOS VERDES | $5,599,000

3609 NAVAJO PLACE | PALOS VERDES ESTATES | $2,895,000

129 ROCKY POINT RD. | PALOS VERDES ESTATES | $2,649,000

986 PASEO LA CRESTA | PALOS VERDES ESTATES | $8,249,000

WHEN IT COMES TO JUMBO LOANS, NEW AMERICAN FUNDING HAS MORE TO OFFER. JUMBO PROGRAM FEATURES: • • • •

• Loans to $15 million • Bank statement loan in lieu of tax returns • Foreign nationals to 65% LTV

25% down to $5 million 15% down to $3 million 10% down to $1.5 million Self employed

• Up to 10 financed properties • Cross collateralization for down payment to lessen amount of cash needed to close

Manhattan Beach Branch 1230 Rosecrans Ave. #402 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 844-247-6883

Coastal branches located throughout Southern California

Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. NMLS ID#6606. All products are not available in all states. All options are not available on all programs. All programs are subject to borrower and property qualifications. Rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. © New American Funding. New American and New American Funding are registered trademarks of Broker Solutions, DBA New American Funding. All Rights Reserved. Corporate Office (800) 450-2010. 4/2016

FisherRealEstate.com

RESI DENTI A L | I N V ESTM ENT RESI DENTI A L | IALWAYS N V ESTM ENT OUR CLIENTS' INTERESTS COME FIRST OUR CLIENTS' INTERESTS ALWAYS COME FIRST

“Charles is a tremendous advocate and respected voice when it comes to buying your home. He patiently explains the process, helps navigate potential pitfalls, and vigorously negotiates on your behalf when it comes down to price.”

–Tim & Nora Reynolds

“Charles is a tremendous advocate and respected voice when it comes to buying your home. He patiently explains the process, helps navigate potential pitfalls, and vigorously negotiates on your “I would recommend Charles to both friends and strangers, and am confident he would treat each behalf when comes down and to price.” & list Nora withitthe same respect work ethic he portrayed with us. If you are looking for an–Tim agent to or Reynolds help you find a house, look no further, because Charles Fisher is your guy!”

–Marshall & Lauren Clayton

“I would recommend Charles to both friends and strangers, and am confident he would treat each with the same respect and work ethic he portrayed with us. If you are looking for an agent to list or help you find a house, look no further, because Charles Fisher is your guy!”

–Marshall & Lauren Clayton

CHARLES FISHER 310-902-7214

Charles@FisherRealEstate.com 1401 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 BRE# 01731424

CHARLES FISHER 310-902-7214

Charles@FisherRealEstate.com 1401 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 BRE# 01731424

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

Aspen, Barcelona, Beijing, Dubai, London, Miami, Mumbai, New York, Paris

47 COUNTRIES / 2,900+ OFFICES / 84,000+ SALES ASSOCIATES

Manhattan Beach, CA $3,649,000 Represented by: Forbes Corrales Coastal Properties (310) 346-3332

For additional information contact your local Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office today.

COLDWELLBANKERPREVIEWS.COM

MANHATTAN BEACH METLOX PLAZA (310) 802-5700 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd.

Ste D220, Manhattan Beach

PALOS VERDES BEACH CITIES (310) 378-5201 68 Malaga Cove Plaza Palos Verdes Estates

©2017 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE#01295248

FORBESCORRALES.COM C O A S TA L

P R O P E RT I E S

#1 Coldwell Banker Team in Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach 2014, 2015 and 2016

IT’S NOT WHAT YOU THINK..

WALKSTREET FULLY LOADED VILLA

Downtown MB . 3BD . 3 BA . approx. 2,300 SF . 1/2 Block to the Beach | $3,649,000

Hermosa . 5BD . 7 BA . approx. 4,400 SF . 1/2 Block to Beach | $4,395,000

This Sun and Moon Iconic Beach home is how about it makes you feel. Built by nationally recognized John Picard, it delivers unexpected privacy while embracing the soft lights of downtown Manhattan Avenue and surreal sit down relaxing views of the ocean. Its south facing exposure and extra family room is a rare bonus.

NORTH HERMOSA CURRENT DUPLEX $1,799,000

TO-BE 2018 NEW 3,000 SF $3,000,000 North Hermosa west of Valley just 4 blocks to the beach. Currently, it is a remodeled North Hermosa Beach Duplex at Land Value for $1,799,000 and conservative pro forma cash flow.

Also, a stunning opportunity to own a new 2018 to-be built 3,000 SF contemporary beach residence for currently $3,000,000 (“builder’s price”) at a soon-to-be foregone price.

LAUREN C A L B R E

FORBES

0 1 2 9 5 2 4 8

call | text 310.901.8512

Over 10 features, it’s not easy where to start. So, in no particular order, this sensational European Villa offers: a huge roof top deck overlooking other decks for sky deck privacy, oversized rooms included but unlimited to the kitchen - the great room - the master suite - large front patio, 4 view balconies, panoramic ocean views, elevator, movie-game room, all ensuite room guest rooms, large master suite closet and bath even for a 4,400 SF home, south facing for warmth, etc etc..

MODERN SERENITY

North Redondo . 4 BD . 3.5 BA . office space . high-tech . huge backyard | $1,799,000 An incredible Zen innovation of a light, space and tranquility. The main floor living gets as much light as the upper family room, because it features a most clever and creative architecture with skylights in both rooms. The additional amenities of indoor-outdoor living features a Viking kitchen with nana folding doors leading to a grand backyard with fullgrown trees for privacy and built-in BBQ space for the ultimate entertaining space for your own peace of mind as well as the enjoyment of your guests.

JOHN

CORRALES

C A L B R E

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call | text 310.346.3332

©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned

by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.

Spanish Elegance

2253 Warmouth St., San Pedro Enjoy ocean views from this gorgeous home in the South Shores area of San Pedro. Featuring 5 beds, 3.5 baths and 5,214 sq. ft. of living space with a 3-car garage. $2,595,000

Gordon Inman 310.936.1979

The Inman Team Inmanteam.com

KeIth Kelley 310.944.5554

RECENT ACTIVITY FROM

NOMINATED AS

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

RECENTLY SOLD

RECENTLY SOLD

132 28TH STREET, HERMOSA BEACH

125 2ND STREET, MANHATTAN BEACH

LISTED AT $3,999,999

LISTED AT $10,300,000

*REPRESENTED SELLER

*REPRESENTED BUYER

JENNIFER CARAS Realtor ®, CalBRE#01466213

d 310.367.9129 | o 310.546.7611 x357 Jennifer.Caras@VistaSIR.com | VistaSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

1144 Highland Avenue Manhattan Beach, California 90266

From sprawling hillside estates to contemporary penthouse residences, Espiritu is home to the finest, private collection of new modern residences from the visionary developer of Villas Del Mar. Perched dramatically above Palmilla Bay, with sweeping sea and mountain views, Espiritu is located steps away from an array of world-class amenities, including the Club Ninety Six beach club, the Club Espiritu ocean-view fitness club and the neighboring One&Only Palmilla Hotel.

ESTATE 16 $5,950,000 | 4,292 SQ. FT. | 4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 2 POWDERS

KRISTIN REGAN 424.488.1013 EspirituDelMar.com

the | KONDO | GROUP

Have we met?

Your Luxury Real Estate Team Serving the South Bay and the surrounding communities since 2004. Our focus is to serve our buyers and sellers with honesty, integrity, and dedication as dependable partners.

Call 310.567.8790 for a free market analysis WWW.THEKONDOGROUP.COM | THEKONDOGROUP@GMAIL.COM Keller Williams Palos Verdes Realty . 550 Deep Valley Dr. Ste 359 . Rolling Hills Estates

CalBRE # 01438455

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated

3416 THE STRAND, MANHATTAN BEACH Entertain and relax while listening to the waves break on the beach. Luxurious finishes and panoramic views are found on every level and space of the home. In addition to the main house, there is a guest house or income apartment above the garage with two bedrooms and one bath. OFFERED AT $15,000,000

COMING SOON Your sanctuary on the Westside with sweeping views from every room.

Extraordinary Hawaiian island estate featuring the finest upgrades and amenities.

CALL LAURA FOR DETAILS.

MAKENALUXURYHOME.COM

Effortlessly embodying a casual sense of elegance, Laura shows her zeal for design and love for architectural excellence with every property she works on. Her heart is continually focused on pursuing an outdoor marine lifestyle. This has lead her to some of her favorite development projects turning homes into coastal retreats from Maui to Manhattan Beach to Monterey, California.

In all that she does, she brings to life the inspiration she finds during her international travels.

laura.chavers@vistasir.com | d 310.760.6997 laurachavers.com | vistasir.com CalBRE# 01974888

LAST BUT NOT LEAST

Sweet on Salsa A woman’s search for love ends—and begins—on the dance floor.

Written by Kathleen Laccinole | Illustrated by Christine Georgiades

W

asn’t Valentine’s Day just yesterday? Or was that New Year’s Eve? Was Valentine’s Day the day before New Year’s Eve? It feels like it was. Frankly, it’s difficult to keep track of the never-ending cycle of lovers’ holidays pummeling me faster and more furiously with each passing year.

And now it is Valentine’s Day again … and I am still single. My neighbors are coupled, my family is coupled, most of my friends are coupled.

My daughter is away at college and my son … well, my son is 15. I cannot force him to take his mom to yet another V-Day dinner.

So what will I do? I know exactly what I will do.

Last summer, while still in pajamas at 3:00 in the afternoon, I realized I was depressed and lonely. I needed to get out of the house, back into my body and back into the land of the living. But I wasn’t up for bars or the hassles of parking at the beach. Gelson’s could provide only so much social stimulation.

Online dating was a bust—and don’t even get me started on Tinder.

This is when a wise and happy-in-her-own-skin, single mom friend suggested I join a Meetup. The website helps people with shared interests—from ornithology to sushi making—connect at planned events.

The universe pointed me in the direction of salsa dancing. I’d always wanted to be one of those beautiful girls with the fancy dress and sparkly shoes, dipped and twirled to the clave rhythm of bongos, timbales and brass. I wanted to spin. Why not give it a try?

We were a motley crew at the Blue Starz dance studio in Sherman Oaks: some Latin dudes half my age, a Russian gentleman, a couple of bewildered happy-hour gals, a dar-

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ling Eastern European teacher and me—a middle-aged, brokenhearted ex-housewife who was easily a foot taller than anyone in the room.

But when we started to move to the beat—those basic steps of 1-2-3-hold-5-6-7—we came to life. Differences like age, language and size melted away.

I began hitting the local clubs, all of which offered inexpensive classes before opening the floor to “social dancing.” I was moving my body, meeting new people, dressing up and whirling to the music. Suddenly I was far from lonely.

I’ve discovered salsa is everywhere, every night, in every part of town—lessons, teams, magnificent live bands, pool and birthday parties.

Everyone is invited, always. In salsa, it is appropriate for a woman to go clubbing solo. With no pressure to drink, she can dance the night away for less than a movie theatre ticket.

But my favorite part of salsa is the courtly manners.

Built on the principles of how a gentleman should treat a woman, with respect and thoughtfulness, salsa is a dance of the fingertips. It operates on the philosophy of connection—a dance based on touch, eye contact and smiles.

Another bonus: I have danced away 10 pounds. I can now totally rock the pretty dress, not to mention the sparkly shoes. And while I may not yet have a special someone, this Valentine’s Day when the world is canoodling, I will be on a dance floor, surrounded by sound, getting lost in the music … ah the music. And given the right partner, I will spin and spin and spin.

Kathleen Laccinole is a freelance writer and contributor to esme.com. She also writes on the site under the pseudonym P. Charlotte Lindsay for the regular column “Tinder Loving Care.” 

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