Ventura Blvd July 2018

WHERE WE LIVE

THE HOME ISSUE OURV E N TU R A B LV D.CO M

SIX DOLLARS

JULY 2018

Calabasas | Encino | Sherman Oaks | Studio City | Tarzana | Toluca Lake | Woodland Hills

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Mina Moussavian-Assadi, M.D. Board-Certified Pediatrician Facey Tarzana

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JULY 2018

where we live 16

Q&A The Valley Real Estate Boom

26 FRESH CUT Where to Buy the Freshest Roses

88

40 DATEBOOK Fun Stuff to Do 41

TABLE CANDY Big Books We Love

92 SEEN Faces Spotted Around Town

42 features 20 TAKE TWO VB editor Linda Grasso’s kitchen gets a redo.

34 BUILT TO LAST The legacy of William Mellenthin’s birdhouse ranch-style homes.

80

and then some...

30 ON THE MARKET One-of-a-kind, Custom Property in Prime Studio City 50 DESIGN SHOWCASE Noteworthy Interior Designers, Furniture and Decor Stores, and other Home Professionals of the Valley

42 MID-CENTURY REDUX A family migrates from the Westside, drawn by the striking bones of an Encino home.

99 PROFILES Local Finance & Wealth Management Professionals

65 VALLEYDICTORIANS A salute to the class of 2018.

104 REAL ESTATE Spectacular Local Listings

88 GARDEN VARIETY From ruffles to floral prints, showcasing summer trends.

130 DUDE, WHERE’S MY HOUSE? TV Writer Lissa Kapstrom on Losing Her Childhood Home

the sauce

COVER

80 GARDENER & GOURMAND Saddlerock Gardens’ alfresco dinner

Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

84 ROAD TO BELGIUM Bluebird Brasserie in Sherman Oaks

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With interior designer Orit Srour in my new kitchen

Kitchen Confidential If I didn’t become a journalist, I think I would have loved to be an interior designer. It isn’t that I have any discernable talent. It’s more about the fact that I am fascinated by design—from textiles to fabrics to accessories. I consider shopping for home items and putting them all together fun and relaxing. Redecorating a room or an area of our home is a creative outlet.

Recently though, I bit off a bit more than I could chew, when we decided to renovate our home kitchen. Quite frankly, I had no idea how much goes into designing a new kitchen. The attention to detail with building cabinetry to fit specific appliances, rewiring electric and having stone fabricated, was for me, overwhelming. Thankfully, my interior designer Orit Srour was not the least bit unnerved. A pressure inducing factor: we decided to share the project as a “Before & After” feature in this HOME issue. That meant the project had a deadline—a “hard out.” Although Orit and I started leisurely picking out items back in December, June crept up very quickly. Seemingly simple things like kitchen sink faucets have long lead times and it was nerve-wracking waiting for everything to come in (and hopefully be perfect) and to be installed by professionals who are busier than ever, thanks to the building boom in the Valley right now.

The beautiful photos of our new kitchen, beginning on page 20, are a testament to Orit and her highly skilled team (professionals and vendors are listed on page 24). I can’t go without thanking her and everyone involved in the project, as well as Orit’s husband, Steve Srour, owner of AJS Construction. Steve, who served as contractor, made some key structural suggestions the very first time he came to our house, and they ended up being game-changers.

Speaking of husbands, I’d like to thank mine for indulging me in a kitchen redo—though it wasn’t at the top of his wish list. He indulged me—along with Orit—to create my dream kitchen, including some pricey items that were completely outside his comfort zone (Custom stove hood? Seriously?). I guess this means we’ll be dining in more frequently. Okay by me.

Linda Grasso Editor-in-Chief

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Follow me on Instagram @linda.grasso and my podcast @she_sez

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

editor’s letter | LINDA GRASSO

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The Gold Rush Analyzing what last year’s record-breaking home prices mean for both buyer and seller ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE GEORGIADES

Property values in the Valley have never been higher. For 2017, the median home price was $700,000— up more than 16.7% from the previous year. To offer some insight, we queried two veteran realtors, Andrea Korchek, Director of Luxury Estates for The Agency and Oren Mordkowitz, Estates Director for Pinnacle Estate Properties. We also brought John Musso, Senior Wealth Management Lending Officer with Bank of America, into the conversation.

What are your thoughts on the 16.7% escalation in home prices here?

AK: The best analogy is Trousdale; there was a time when it was considered an embarrassing address if you wanted 90210. A few celebrity purchases and BOOM! Our wonderful Valley is now in that state of transition.

JM: That is a big increase for year over year. Due to lack of inventory, most areas in SoCal will move up in value. And there’s still room for increases as we are still 14% below the high for the region’s pre-recession peak.

OM: I’m not surprised. Home prices in the West LA areas are pushing more buyers to the Valley. If you compare a 1,000-square-foot fixer for $1 million (if you can find one) on the Westside, for the same price you can get a 1,800-square-foot, remodeled home in a good area of the Valley.

Why are Valley prices rising faster than LA? AK: The Valley once had a derogative connotation. No longer. I’m selling to talented, educated, sophisticated and wealthy buyers who want to be here.

JM: Business wants to be here, too.

Over 70,000 businesses are located here with both Fortune 500 and 1000

companies. Major industries are represented from aerospace to motion picture/ TV to music/recording.

OM: It would make sense that yearover-year returns in LA would begin to somewhat slow a bit. The Valley had some catching up to do.

Why is this price increase in the Valley happening?

JM: Mainly the lack of inventory. The Valley is at an all-time low for listings over the past three months. In February, there were 958 homes listed, compared to the peak in July 1992 of 15,000 homes listed. Homes priced under $1 million are in high demand and buyers must be ready to compete for that property.

Also many homeowners who are locked into historic low rates are reluctant to list their homes for sale. So we see baby boomers staying, not moving up or actually downsizing, putting even more strain on the middle-level housing. Lastly, there has been a lack of new residential construction to help with the supply.

It seems like a lot of young buyers are coming over the hill from the Westside.

AK: They have always migrated to the Valley when priced out of the Westside market. The entertainment industry has

always been a draw, but the decision is still value driven. I’ve noticed that these young Westside buyers are no longer seeing their move to the Valley as temporary; they are buying homes and planning on raising families here.

OM: I think the younger buyers have realized the Valley offers them good schools, nice neighborhoods, a bit less traffic—and a better bang for the buck.

Let’s address the impact of the price rise on buyers.

AK: Unfortunately, it means a lot of money. And with the new tax laws limiting mortgage and property tax deductions, buyers are the true financial elite. It’s the reality of big city real estate, and it presents great challenges for hardworking professionals who are being priced out of all of our markets.

JM: They now have to buy less of a house if they are at their maximum.

A house that was $600,000 now is $700,000.

OM: Buyers are frustrated with the lack of inventory—not terribly focused on how much prices have increased. They are more fearful of how much higher prices might go.

It is frustrating for many buyers to lose out on numerous opportunities because of multiple offers.

I’ve even seen buyers remove loan and appraisal contingencies and offer sellers a month free after close of escrow to try and get an offer accepted.

Speaking of multiple offers, should buyers go into a deal prepared for a bidding war?

AK: Any property that is priced well will receive multiple offers, and properties are selling way above the ask price. In this market, buyers must dress in their coat of arms, as it will kill you if you’re not prepared. If you find a property you want, you will have to be aggressive. Maybe the best strategy is to watch the properties that aren’t selling rather than race to the finish line on new listings.

You may get a better value.

OM: I find lower price points or homes with special features tend to attract multiple buyers. One thing to keep in mind—the highest sale sets the bar for the next. It is likely that the next closely comparable home that comes on the market will be listed at an even higher price.

MEDIAN VALLEY HOME PRICES* $1,269,155 $1,160,309

$973,209 $933,765

Sherman Oaks

Encino

Calabasas

Studio City

*From March 2018 Zillow survey

JULY 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

17

Is now the time to sell?

AK: Sell! Most experts predict some adjustment in prices, and historically, the real estate market does move up and down. In 2005, my manager offered this advice to our agents: “Save your money because as fast as real estate goes up, it comes down even faster.” She was right! If you do need or want to sell in the next few years, I would sell now, as it’s a sure thing.

JM: That’s a tough question. It depends on their particular situation and motivation. But it’s all relative; sell high, buy high.

OM: It is impossible to time the market. You should sell when you are ready. If you have planned to sell at the peak, then you should sell today.

What is the most expensive home you’ve listed in the past 12 months?

AK: The highest sale in 2017 in the Valley was mine at 17085 Rancho, which closed at $8.253 million. I also recently closed 13262 Galewood, Sherman Oaks for $7.5 million. These are huge price tags for the Valley. Only trophy properties are offered in this range. The Rancho property in Encino is over 10,000 square feet of newly remodeled living space on a 67,058square-foot, flat lot. Galewood is a 9,000-square-foot New England traditional in prime Longridge Estates.

OM: The most expensive home I sold over the last year was $5.5 million; it was approximately 8,000 square feet, new construction on a nice cul-de-sac lot. It was one of the highest sales in the neighborhood a year ago.

Now we’re seeing lots of million dollar homes pop up on the north side of the Boulevard—often in the form of 5,000+-square-foot “spec” homes, surrounded by smaller, older homes. Conventional wisdom says, “Never buy the most expensive house in the neighborhood.” Thoughts?

AK: That is sound advice, even today.

That said, I personally prefer some of the neighborhoods north of Ventura Boulevard, as they are beautiful tree-lined streets, walking distance from great restaurants, with a true sense of community among the residents. Studio City, north of the Boulevard, already turned over and is

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considered prime real estate. There are some pockets in Sherman Oaks that still are transitioning.

OM: It is safe to say, if it can be torn down, it will. Neighborhood landscapes are changing quickly. Buyers are enamored with new construction and builders are eager to find anything they can bulldoze. Buying the nicest home on the block is no longer the concern as buyers know there will be an even nicer home on the block soon enough.

How frequently are you involved in bidding wars which result in homes appraising below “value?”

JM: Buyers may be willing to overpay for a property due to lack of supply, increased competition and if the property is located in the right neighborhood and school district—particularly if they are in it for the long haul. Buyers need to be prepared to put more money into the deal if they want the property and it does not appraise for the accepted offer price. The seller may be more inclined to go with cash buyers or will need to negotiate with the buyer due to a low appraisal.

Offer a few options for the buyer who is looking in the $400,000 to $500,000 range.

AK: There are still a few properties available in Van Nuys and North Hollywood, but they go fast. Buyers in that range may best consider a condominium, allowing them the benefits of ownership, including building equity and time to save for their next big purchase. Remember, if you put down 20% on a $500,000 condo ($100,000), and the condo increases in value to $600,000, you have doubled your investment, which is undoubtedly better than earning a marginal rate in a bank account. Even more compelling, the mortgage payment, property taxes and HOA fees combined could well be less than you would pay for rent on the same unit, when you factor in tax advantages.

OM: You may be able to find something in Reseda, Chatsworth, North Hills or Lake Balboa. Those are tough price points at the moment. If you are able to find something worthwhile in that price range, expect multiple offers. ■

VALLEY HOME PRICES

BY THE NUMBERS

$700,000 MEDIAN 2017 VALLEY HOME PRICE

16.7% INCREASE IN VALLEY MEDIAN PRICE BETWEEN 2016 AND 2017

$372,500 MEDIAN VALLEY HOME PRICE IN 2009

1,765

NUMBER OF VALLEY SALES OVER $5 MILLION IN 2017*

54%

PERCENTAGE CHANGE OF SALES MORE THAN $5 MILLION FROM 2007 TO 2017*

*According to the Wall Street Journal

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Take Two VB Editor Linda Grasso renovates her kitchen, imparting a thoughtful balance of materials and fixtures aimed at accommodating the lifestyle of an avid cook and entertainer.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

“When I walk into our home now, I immediately see the bright, airy and inviting space, and it feels like a reflection of my husband and me and where we are in life.”

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I

t all started with the kitchen cabinets. A couple of years ago, my husband and I decided to get rid of the golden-hued color throughout the main living space of our house and paint the walls white. We loved the freshened-up look, but it made the kitchen, with its honey-glazed cabinet finish, stand out like a sore thumb. When we went with white walls, we also switched up décor, moving from traditional to transitional.

The kitchen’s Tuscan or French country vibe, with wrought iron accents and “muddy,” distressed tiles, didn’t match our new aesthetic.

And we couldn’t just look the other way.

Not only does my family prefer to gather in the kitchen, but it is a revolving hub for friends, neighbors and just about anyone my husband takes a liking to. No matter where I place the hors d’oeuvres, everyone winds up in the kitchen. Plus with the home’s open floor plan, the kitchen is fully visible from the front door. For me, coming into the house and seeing the kitchen was a killjoy.

A fresh coat of paint on the cabinets seemed the easiest solution. However when I got my painter’s bid, I thought: Geez, for that price I could probably get all new cabinets with an updated design. We got an estimate for Shaker-style cabinets, and indeed it was more expensive, but it wasn’t a deal killer.

(This palatable price point was before we decided to add a fancy appliance garage, “magic corner” for pots and pans, and large, built-in pantry.)

The plans for new cabinetry then triggered an appliance evaluation. Do we really want to build new cabinets around this 15-year-old refrigerator that never seemed large enough or this wine cooler that never seemed cool enough?

Our fate was sealed when I happened to stumble upon a new, innovative line from Dacor at Snyder Diamond in North Hollywood. The beautiful design and novel features of The Modernist Collection appliances captivated me—particularly the 48-inch range, which offers two distinct baking spaces. On the left, there is a full steam oven with the power of convection, so you can do things like steam fish yet still get a sear on top. On the right is a huge 4.8-cubicfoot oven with a dual, four-part convection system that allows you, for example, to bake cupcakes and roast garlic at the same time (with no taste transfer). The range has smart technology like built-in Wi-Fi and the ability to be operated remotely.

The Dacor column refrigerator and freezer also appealed to me—with a sleek, streamlined design that includes flush doors (that literally disappear into the cabinetry) and a stainless steel interior with wrap-around LED lighting. Unlike most models, there is no visible vent. The coup de grace though was the cocktail icemaker which crafts perfectly shaped, over-sized squares. I could envision our next coctail party: I’ll take mine on the rocks. Our plans to paint cabinets suddenly morphed into an entire kitchen redo.

At that point, I brought in my silver bullet, Orit Srour. We’d done a couple of home features in VB magazine where she was the designer, and I was drawn to her sophisticated sensibility—punctuated by clean lines and striking accessories. I also have a practical side. No matter how beautiful something is, it has to work for our lifestyle.

As a mom of three, Orit understood. And as luck would have it, Orit’s husband, Steve Srour, is a licensed contractor (silver bullet number two) so she brought him in to round out our team.

For cabinetry, we went with a simple, Shaker-style painted in two shades. On the lowers, we used a lacquer that was a copy of Farrow & Ball’s Down Pipe Grey. For the uppers—as well as the entire section by the refrigerator—we lacquered with a copy of All White. (F & B paint does not come in lacquer.) Orit felt using white on top would make the kitchen look larger.

The existing kitchen center island, a wellmade, alder structure, was a debate. We flirted with revamping it a bit (new legs and doors) so it would feel more contemporary.

But then we switched directions, deciding to make it stand out by doing a custom grey finish—with hints of silver, black and brown.

My husband had one request. He wanted a wood, butcher block top on the island.

Despite concerns about upkeep, with him leaving pretty much every other design decision up to me, I felt I had to give in. In the February ARTS issue, we’d done a feature on the talented wood artisan Felipe Lopez, and he lived just a stone’s throw away in Studio City. I visited his woodworking shop, and we chose a beautiful walnut for the top. We loved the look of the unfinished, natural wood (with four coats of a protective glaze on top—fingers crossed).

Speaking of stain resistance, I originally wanted to use Calcutta marble on the countertops but ran into two roadblocks. First,

CENTER STAGE A custom, matte black, metal stove hood with a brass band and the Dacor Modernist Collection range (note the cool, 7-inch touch screen up by the knobs) are the focal point of the kitchen. “Once we chose those as central elements, everything else just fell into place,� shares interior designer Orit Srour.

JULY 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

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APPLIANCES BY DACOR, MODERNIST COLLECTION AVAILABLE AT SNYDER DIAMOND 12825 Vanowen St., North Hollywood 818-286-9900 | snyderdiamond.com | dacor.com

Orit felt that for someone who cooked and entertained, the marble would get too stained; secondly, the price. We planned on using stone as a backsplash, which required a total of three slabs. That put the expensive Calcutta out of reach. After an extensive search trekking through the stone yards of the Valley, we zeroed in on a man-made quartz called Dekton. Because it has extremely low porosity and contains no resins, Dekton is very chemical resistant.

As the centerpiece of the kitchen, we selected a matte finish, black metal, custom stove hood with a 3-inch brass band by Modern Aire. The manufacturer is based in North Hollywood and that turned out to be one of those occasions where “buying local” was a stroke of luck. We had some challenges when it came to installation and, with a moment’s notice, the team at Modern Aire came to the rescue.

Whether we’re talking table settings or jewelry, I am drawn to the use of mixed metals. We chose a solid brass sink faucet (and accessories) by California Faucets and sleek “espresso” cabinet pulls by Emtek. Along with the stainless steel Dacor appliances and the black stove hood with its brass accent, my metal amalgam was complete.

After eight weeks of living without a kitchen and stressing about escalating budget factors I could not control (Who could’ve guessed that when we ripped out the walk-in pantry there wouldn’t be wooden floor under the walls?), my dream hub is a fait accompli. When I walk into our home now, I immediately see the bright, airy and inviting space, and it feels like a reflection of my husband and me and where we are in life (i.e. soon-to-be empty nesters).

Now we’ve gotta do something about the master bedroom. ■

SEAMLESS DESIGN The flush “disappearing” door of the Dacor stainless steel column refrigerator, the 48-bottle wine cooler with dual temperature zones and the custom appliance garage.

INTERIOR DESIGN ORIT SROUR DESIGNS 818-631-2595 | @oritsrourdesigns AJS CONSTRUCTION Owner: Steve Srour 818-642-9700 CABINET PULLS AND BRASS FAUCET MY HOUSE PLUMBING & HARDWARE 18919 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana 818-798-1900 | myhousehardware.com WALNUT CENTER ISLAND TOP, KITCHEN TABLE AND BANQUETTE FELIPE LOPEZ WOODWORKER 818-497-7951 | felipelopezwoodworker.com | @flopez_woodworker MODERN AIRE CUSTOM STOVE HOOD AVAILABLE AT UNIVERSAL APPLIANCE & KITCHEN CENTER 12050 Ventura Blvd, Studio City 818-755-1111 | uakc.com CUSTOM CABINETRY AND FLOATING SHELVES DECOR INTERNATIONAL Owner: Bobby Saraf 323-753-2200 | décor-international.com DEKTON STONE FABRICATION GIALLO STONE 323-227-0227 | giallostone.com NAVY “SAVANNAH” RUG NW RUGS Locations in Sherman Oaks & Agoura Hills nwrugs.com CENTER ISLAND CUSTOM FINISH TINA CRANDALL 562-761-5138 | @the_art_of_tina_crandall BANQUETTE UPHOLSTERY WM UPHOLSTERY 14739 Oxnard St., Van Nuys 818-783-4000 ACCESSORIES ACCESSORIES PREVIEW 353 N. La Brea Ave., LA accessorypreview.com

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VENTURA BLVD | JULY 2018

Fresh Cut

Roses don’t come any fresher than the ones at Rose Lane Farms.

WRITTEN BY HEATHER DAVID PHOTOGRAPHED BY COURTNEY STAPLETON

HARD TO BELIEVE Koko Loko bud and blossom (right)

5 SHOW-STOPPING BLOOMS HOT COCOA A favorite of brides, this chocolatehued variety, when mixed with lighter colors, surprises with pops of color.

KOKO LOKO Considered the darling of Instagram; deep butterscotch and coral bud that opens to a soft café latte.

DISTANT DRUM Starts out in a pinkish, caramel color

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VENTURA BLVD | JULY 2018

and then fades to a blushy, smoky, purple-pink.

TABLE MOUNTAIN A classic pink that is extremely hearty and one of the longest lasting cut roses available.

DOUBLE DELIGHT Cream, red and pink hues. One of the most fragrant varieties available.

An industrialized section of North Hollywood isn’t exactly a place of beauty. But tucked deep among the power lines and sprawling warehouses is a hidden jewel: a small plot of land that for more than 20 years has been the source of some of the most beautiful roses grown in SoCal. Rose Lane Farms raises over 120 different types of roses from around the world. The fields are cultivated year-round, without machinery. Instead, each bush is watered and fertilized by hand.

Lynne Vinkovic is the owner, aka “Principal Curator.”

“I’m dedicated to the proper care of growing roses sustainably. I grow with pride, awareness and conscientiousness for the environment,” beams the Ohio native.

The farm uses only OMRI-rated (Organic Approved Soil and Fertilizer) products for disease and pest control. They also take special care not to harm the bees.

Rose Lane Farms is no secret to top wedding and event planners all over the region. They’ve been coming here for years, buying unique and rare varieties like the ombré taupe and lavender petals of Distant Drum and the deep fiery orange and chocolaty brown hues of Hot Cocoa.

“Here you’ll get uniformity, where every stem in your bunch is going to look the same in stage and form. Garden roses are very specific, and it takes time to process (the tedious chore of removing thorns and stems) and prepare them for events,” Lynne shares.

Customers can roam the fields and design their own bouquet or rely on Lynne’s expertise. Some come to buy; for others, it’s about the experience.

“Pop in with a cup of coffee on an early Saturday morning. As the sun hits the rose fields, the fragrance that wafts through the air is unbelievable.” ■ Rose Lane Farm 11740 Sherman Way, North Hollywood

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Dr. Cohen has been in practice for 18 years and specializes in aesthetic surgery of the face and body. His practice emphasizes a rejuvenation that is minimally invasive, while achieving a natural result.

Call for an appointment today 310.659.8771 9400 Brighton Way, Suite 201 Beverly Hills, CA 90210 AndrewCohenMD.com @beverlyhillssurgeon

ENCINO

ENDURANCE P I L AT E S TREADMILL I N T E R VA L S

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LA BREA

LOCATION NOW OPEN

17060 VENTURA BLVD (Between Balboa + Amestoy)

10 Workouts “ Top in Los Angeles” —Sporteluxe Magazine

Small Group Classes for All Fitness Levels fitmixstudio.com

JULY 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

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Small acrylic box with oco geode cluster, $155; mapletondrive.com Agate bookends in natural, $115; gumps.com

Romancing The Stone This summer unleash sparkle, shine and natural texture in the home with agate and geodes.

WRITTEN BY JENNIE NUNN

Mari chandelier, $3,395; jaysonhome.com Amethyst geode decanter, $50; Z Gallerie, Westfield Fashion Square or zgallerie.com Agate serving set, $48; Anthropologie, Westfield Topanga or anthropologie.com Geode napkin ring, $68 for set of 4; zgallerie.com

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Agate nesting tables, $216 for set of 2; statementsbyj.com Agate green stone lamp finial, $21; ballarddesigns.com Slivered geode coaster, $14 each; Anthropologie, Westfield Topanga or anthropologie.com

Achieve Your Financial Goals and Help Support Israel A Charitable Gift Annuity is a way for you to make a gift to JNF with the promise of earning fixed payments for the rest of your life. Benefits include secured fixed payments for life, charitable deduction and tax savings, partially tax-free income, special capital gains tax treatment on appreciated assets, stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, and recognition in Israel.

Experience Israel with JNF on the Sunshine Mission: For Active Adults 55+ August 26 – September 4, 2018 Call 800.562.7526 or visit jnf.org/sunshine for more information.

Single-Life Gift Annuity*

AGE 65 70 75 80 85 90 and over

RATE 5.5% 5.8% 6.4% 7.2% 8.1% 9.5%

*Two life rates will vary.

Rates are subject to change.

A P L U S S I Z E FA S H I O N B O U T I Q U E

Abundance is one of the very few upscale independent plus size fashion boutiques in the entire United States. From comfortable to casual or dressy - classic to funky and fun.

Abundance has it all!

(818) 990-6128 1 3 6 0 4 V E N T U R A B LV D. S H E R M A N OA K S , C A 9 1 4 2 3

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

EXQUISITE DESIGN MEETS LUXURIOUS LIVING IN THE HEART OF STUDIO CITY A rare and magnificent property seamlessly blends contemporary architecture and state-of-the-art features with detailed craftsmanship of the past.

WRITTEN BY PEGGY JO ABRAHAM

W

hen thinking about the ultimate in lifestyle, for many of us, it’s about the yin and the yang. East meets West. Think old Hollywood glamour blended with the sophistication of New York City’s MOMA. Now imagine for a minute that you could live in such a rarefied environment. This way of life is possible with a new property, just on the market—a custom masterpiece located in the Valley’s sought-after “Silver Triangle.” The area, just south of Ventura Boulevard, is within walking distance to top-notch restaurants and stores as well as Fryman Canyon Park, with its plethora of shaded hiking trails and dramatic city views.

From the moment one enters through the custom-designed front door, composed of 20 expansive glass panels, they are struck by the majestic scale of the residence. A soaring entryway, boasting 25-foot ceilings, leads to the sprawling first-floor living area. Like virtually every space in this elegant home, there is acute attention to detail from every angle. Glance upward and you’ll see a stunning 250-pound, solid crystal chandelier. Two of the home’s seven en-suite bedrooms are on the first level, along with a charming library accented by handsome wainscoting and a tongue and groove, coved ceiling. The open floor plan offers 8,335 square feet of living and entertaining space that combines elegance, comfort and convenience.

For homeowners who enjoy the pleasures of hosting, the kitchen area is a dream come true. Take the butler’s pantry. This space alone houses a full-size dishwasher and refrigerator, a sink and walk-in pantry. During parties and gatherings, guests can make themselves comfortable and visit in the kitchen, while food preparation and cleanup is underway, completely out of sight.

To say this is a “chef’s kitchen” is an understatement. All the appliances are by top-of-theline manufacturer Wolf: a professional caliber range with six burners, a griddle and a grill, a warming drawer and built-in coffee unit—plus a sub-zero with both a full-size refrigerator and freezer. Making meals becomes an exercise in luxury, with the doublewide center island with a stain-resistant quartz countertop and oversized farmhouse sink. Cabinets and storage space go all the way up to the 12-foot ceilings. Need to shoot off a quick email or check a recipe? A work station is perfectly positioned and more than adequate for any task. “The kitchen was thoughtfully planned to maximize both functionality and beauty,” says Mark Small of AMG Capital, which constructed and designed the home and is known throughout the region as the premiere builder of high-end properties.

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ON THE ON TH MA RKETE MA RKET

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3932 Vantage Avenue, Studio City Offered at $6,500,000.

Harriet Cameron | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 818-380-2151 | Harriet@HarrietCameron.com BRE # 00675971 Andrew Spitz | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 818-817-4284 | Andrew@AndrewSpitz.com BRE# 00924610

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ON THE MARKET

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JASON HARLEM

From intimate to large crowds, three well-crafted spaces are available for seating.

There’s a breakfast bar that comfortably accommodates eight and a full-size breakfast room, adjoining the kitchen. It has sliding doors that open to reveal the perfectly manicured backyard and impressive outdoor living space. For a more formal experience, the elegant dining room features a 700+ bottle, temperature-controlled “wine wall,” fronted by glass doors. All of these spaces blend seamlessly into a grand family room with a sleek, glass fireplace and multiple plush seating areas.

The entertainment, however, has just begun. Stepping into the exclusive pub room with its coffered ceilings, marble wet bar and antique mirrored glass tiles, one feels like they are on vacation. And after cocktails, head to the lavish theatre, where movies can be viewed on a huge 135-inch screen. “This is a place to entertain any type of crowd— be it a fancy meal with the best bottle of champagne or the neighborhood families enjoying a swim, a barbeque and a film favorite,” explains Adam Zane of AMG Capital.

Ascending the extra-wide staircase, a spacious second floor with five more ensuite bedrooms, all with vaulted ceilings and built-out closets, awaits. One bedroom could easily be converted to a teen lounge with its adjacent morning bar, the ideal space for cold beverages and late-night snacks. Also on this level: a second, full-size laundry room.

The pièce de résistance is the palatial master wing. Gil Charash of AMG Capital puts it best saying, “The beauty of the luscious and well-planned master suite is that it is a world unto itself, not simply an area for sleeping.” The separate, graceful dressing room adjoins the sumptuous bathroom with marble countertops, an oversize, duel-rainhead steam shower and a soaking tub with a glass-fronted fireplace. The expansive, oversize walk-in “his and her” closets are generously proportioned with made-to-order shelving and drawers, along with an abundance of hanging space. The deluxe bedroom, with floors of engineered oak washed in a custom grey, also has its own morning bar and fireplace. A stately balcony offers a sweeping view of the rear grounds. One side of the balcony has a unique, built-up brick wall to ensure complete privacy.

The approximately half-acre, entirely flat lot includes a vast outdoor living space, ideal for entertaining, dining and relaxing. A 1,060-square-foot guest house is complete with a full-size kitchen, living room, bedroom and two baths, one easily accessible from the pool area.

The formidable, beautifully landscaped yard features a BBQ and fire pit alongside a zero-edge, saltwater pool and spa with oversized “Baja Shelf.” The covered pavilion is the perfect spot for catching a ballgame on TV or relaxing with friends and family.

At night, a click of the fireplace wards off the chill. And for those with energy to burn, there’s a sports court for basketball, paddle tennis and volleyball.

AMG Capital has left no stone unturned—including security. Every inch of the stellar property is connected to a state-of-the-art Control4 system. With closed-circuit cameras for 24-hour protection plus automated systems to control lighting, energy and entertainment, this is a smart home in every sense.

The truly exquisite property personifies the ultimate in 21st century living. The chic, modern residence offers an unparalleled living experience with luxury, privacy and proximity to the heart of the Valley, as well as the best private and public schools in Los Angeles. It is also within the district for LAUSD’s highly ranked Carpenter Community Charter School—one of the most desirable public elementary schools in the area.

This one-of-a-kind home is, without a doubt, the embodiment of having it all.

Imagine reducing your opioid dependence With nearly 2.5 million Americans said to be addicted to prescription opioids or heroin, there is no doubt that we are in the midst of an epidemic involving addiction to painkillers.

Since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids—including prescription painkillers and heroin—nearly quadrupled, and over 165,000 people have died from prescription opioid overdoses, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The problem gets even more complicated when people treated for addiction to painkillers get seriously hurt or need surgery.

Treatments include: •

PRP, prolotherapy and stem cell injections

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interdiscplinary team

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outpatient

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exercise and physical therapy

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diagnostic testing on-site

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massage

Many doctors—rightfully worried about further fueling the drug epidemic—are not always equipped to safely manage these patients’ pain.

As a result, many people suffering from chronic pain end up with no choice but to become dependent on opioids.

Make an appointment today with the Tolbert Center by calling (818) 784-7197 or visiting DrGlennaTolbert.com.

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Built to Last

The Lasting Legacy of the Birdhouse Ranch Homes of William Mellenthin WRITTEN BY HADLEY HALL MEARES | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CHRIS LUKATHER

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I

t was like you were entering the American dream. In the 1950s, picturesque model homes lined Magnolia Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley. These “birdhouse” ranch-style houses, all by builder William Mellenthin, with their whimsical finials and cupolas, were a far cry (and slightly more expensive) from the utilitarian, single-level tract homes often associated with post-war Valley living. Every weekend, excited families would visit the model homes and choose from among the features Mellenthin offered.

Buyers would follow the mild-mannered builder to his office on Laurel Canyon Boulevard to sign papers and finalize plans.

And in as little as one month, their new house

would be ready for move in.

According to Chris Lukather, author of A Birdhouse in Paradise: William Mellenthin and the San Fernando Valley Ranch Homes, the families who bought Mellenthin houses were part of a mass migration, which flooded the Valley after the war. Between 1940 and 1960, the population of the Valley exploded from around 150,000 people to 850,000. During his long career, Mellenthin would build hundreds of his distinctive homes in communities including Sherman Oaks, Encino, Burbank, North Hollywood and Studio City.

FROM THE GROUND UP William Mellenthin was born in 1896 in Sleepy

Eye, Minnesota, one of five children of German immigrant parents. By 1920, he had made his way to Los Angeles. That year, he married Mary Ode Faulconer, the daughter of a local judge. The couple would eventually have two sons, William and Michael. “He was a very private and modest man—a workaholic—and someone who truly enjoyed his profession as a home builder,” Lukather says. “He probably worked six days a week (maybe seven), especially being in real estate. He never took a vacation until later in life.”

Mellenthin built his first house in LA in 1923 and by the mid-1930s had set his sights on the underdeveloped Valley. He started to build in the wide open ranch lands and

“It was the ideal picture of suburbia.”

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5 3

1

2

4

the

Making

of aMellenthin

1. BIRDHOUSES OR “DOVECOTES” Small birdhouses or “dovecotes” on roofs—either on the garage, living room or bedroom. Some birdhouses featured as many as six holes.

5 Tell-tale Characteristics of the Birdhouse Home

2. PATTERNED GARAGE Double Xs, Zs, and other designs adorning front-facing garages.

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE GEORGIADES

3. DIAMOND PANE WINDOW A diamond pattern adorning the façade of the house.

4. BRICK FIREPLACE Most often the brick was red.

Another trademark: the dual fireplace.

5. BOARD-AND-BATTEN SIDING This texturing detail added to the rustic nature of the homes.

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soon began buying up plots from landholders eager to cash in on the boom. “To get an edge, Mellenthin would check the daily newspaper for land that was for sale,” Lukather says. “He would show up at their doorstep that same day, offer them less money—but all cash—and make a deal.”

Contrary to popular belief, Mellenthin was not a licensed architect (in fact he often partnered with prominent local architects, including Leo F. Bachman), but a builder with vision. Lukather learned from one of Mellenthin’s sons that a farmhouse in Minnesota was the inspiration for his version of the birdhouse ranch style.

Other builders were also designing this style, but Mellenthin made it his own with distinctive exterior features. In addition to decorative cupolas and finials, he included dovecotes, low, asymmetrical cottage-like roofs and large patios. Interiors often featured two-sided brick fireplaces, high-beamed ceilings, natural wood finishes and block glass windows. “These homes were perfect for a family living in the San Fernando Valley, where the sun can be enjoyed almost every day of the year,” says Lukather. “Lots of natural light was brought into the home through large picture windows in both the front and back of the house.”

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ANYTHING BUT PICTURE PERFECT However Mellenthin’s personal life fell short of the post-war Valley, nuclear family ideal he was helping to create. In 1940, local papers had a field day covering the contentious divorce between Mellenthin, who the Los Angeles Times mislabeled as a “wealthy architect,” and Mary, his “society matron” wife. Both accused the other of abandonment and infidelity, with Mary claiming her husband had an affair with another woman, who Mellenthin later married.

As the dissolution of his first marriage was making headlines, Mellenthin’s career was on the rise. In 1940, he partnered with a group of Valley pioneers to develop the neighborhood of Sherman Woods, centered around the intersection of Ventura and Sepulveda Boulevards. That year, one of his models in North Hollywood was featured in Life magazine as one of their “most talked about houses of the year.”

BIRDHOUSE BOOM But it was in the 1950s that Mellenthin’s continually evolving birdhouse ranches really took hold of the Valley’s imagination. “They appealed to a post-war country that wanted to enjoy a particular style of living—spending time engaged in leisure activities, enjoying

the comforts of a new consumerism and having a house that was different from the usual tract home,” Lukather explains. “It was the ideal picture of suburbia.”

In 1951, Mellenthin began his biggest project when he bought the 12 ½ acres, Sherman Oaks estate of actor Buck Jones, one of the original cowboy stars. Here he designed his perfect neighborhood, one of multiple cul-de-sacs, spacious yards, and of course, birdhouse ranch homes. Cindy Crystal, who grew up on a Mellenthin street, recalls in A Birdhouse in Paradise a warm, fun, familyfocused neighborhood, filled with children running in and out of homes.

According to Lukather, Mellenthin, who died in 1979, disliked it when homebuyers opted out of the classic birdhouse design elements, and today one understands why. Walking down a Mellenthin street in Sherman Oaks is an enchanting experience. The well-preserved homes retain their resemblance to fairytale cottages—perfectly aligned, surrounded by lush foliage and mature trees. Many of these properties now sell for over a million dollars. Life isn’t perfect, but viewing a Mellenthin sure makes you feel that it could be. ■

C R E AT I N G V I D E O F O R YO U R L I S T I N G S I S O N LY E X P E N S I V E I F N O O N E I S WAT C H I N G .

H o m e F i l m s i s t h e o n l y f u l l y i n t e g r a t e d , r e a l e s t a t e v i d e o p ro d u c t i o n a n d d i g i t a l distribution package. Our talented filmmaking artistically tells the story of what m a k e s yo u r l i s t i n g u n i q u e . A n d o u r t a r g e t e d d i g i t a l d i s t r i b u t i o n e n s u r e s t h a t t h e r i g h t p o t e n t i a l b u y e r s a r e s e e i n g yo u r p ro p e r t y i n t h e m o s t b e a u t i f u l l i g h t .

BEST IN CLASS FILMMAKERS

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S M A RT D I S T R I B U T I O N

Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n : Ro b i n S a n d e r s a t 8 1 8 . 4 2 7. 2 0 5 0 o r ro b i n @ m o o n t i d e m e d i a . c o m .

datebook

Game On

Going on Now Long Day’s Journey Into Night

Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece stars Jeremy Irons and Lesley Manville. Through July 1. thewallis.org

Becoming Los Angeles

An exhibition that tells the story of how the city transformed from a tiny pueblo to a sprawling metropolis. nhm.org

Judy Chicago’s Birth Project: Born Again

Textile and needle media works that analyze the interrelationships of motherhood, maternity, femaleness and gender. pmcaonline.org

June 21 Third Thursdays

An art walk along the streets of downtown Canoga Park. Also scheduled for July 19 and August 16. 1111acc.org

23 - 24 Arroyo Seco Weekend

Neil Young and the Kings of Leon headline this year’s music and food fest in Pasadena. arroyosecoweekend.com

July 4 Old-fashioned family barn dance and BBQ

Live music, contests and games. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. theatricum.com

Fireworks Extravaganza

Live music and a 20-minute fireworks show; 6 p.m to 9:30. valleycultural.org

Calabasas Fireworks Spectacular

Takes place at Calabasas High School. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Gates open 5 p.m. cityofcalabasas.com

6&7 Jennifer Hudson

The singer hits the Hollywood Bowl for the first time. hollywoodbowl.com

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The Skirball Center kicks off its Sunset Concerts summer series on July 26 with singer-songwriter and activist Goapele, and her personal take on R&B, soul, funk and hiphop. The concert series runs every Thursday through summer. skirball.org

VENTURA BLVD | JULY 2018

12 - 15 I Love Lucy: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom

The true story behind the TV comedy by the son of creator-producerhead writer Jess Oppenheimer. latw.org

18 Genghis Khan Lunch and Tour

In conjunction with the Genghis Khan exhibit: a Mongolian-themed lunch and tour of the Presidential Museum and Air Force One Pavilion. Tickets must be purchased in advance. reaganfoundation.org

PHOTO CREDIT : BETO LOPEZ.

Sunset Concerts at the Skirball

Table Candy New Books, Handsome Packages

DONALD: THE BOOK

BY DONALD ROBERTSON ASSOULINE, $85 Donald Robertson turned a compulsive drawing habit into a huge Instagram following—and overnight a star was born. His cartoonlike depictions of everyone from Anna Wintour to Kanye West have won him legions of fans, including Beyoncé. He has also done collaborations with “it” brands like Smashbox and retailers including Bergdorf Goodman. With this book, the so-called “Andy Warhol of Instagram,” shares the very best of his artwork as well as original pieces created just for this title. Featuring playful anecdotes and quotes from industry leaders, fashion designers, and his many collaborators and muses, Donald: The Book is already a collector’s item.

NOT NEUTRAL: FOR EVERY PLACE, ITS STORY

BY RIOS CLEMENTI HALE STUDIOS AMMO BOOKS, $200 Since 1985 the architects, landscape architects, planners and designers at Rios Clementi Hale Studios have been creating buildings, places and products that are thoughtful, effective and beautiful. Projects range in scope and scale from their award-winning urban design for Grand Park in Downtown Los Angeles to one-of-a-kind, custom residential homes and gardens, and unique housewares and products created through their Not Neutral retail brand. The studio, which works at all scale levels, is known for its clever use of pattern, color and materiality in innovative and creative ways.

THE IMPOSSIBLE COLLECTION OF GOLF

BY GEORGE PEPER ASSOULINE, $945 George Peper—former editor-in-chief of Golf magazine and 2016 PGA Lifetime Achievement Award winner for journalism— takes readers on an incomparable golf journey, as he travels the world detailing the 100 most historically significant and architecturally paramount courses.

The author describes intricate holes that have confounded the game’s best, revisits tournaments that have made and broken champions, and shares the unique and truly special characteristics of each course, walking readers through the clubhouses, fairways and bunkers. From Scotland’s St. Andrews to Nova Scotia’s Cabot Cliffs to China’s Shanqin Bay, The Impossible Collection of Golf is a sensory treat for the golf fanatic.

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MID-CENTURY REDUX Migrating from the Westside, a family embraces the pleasures of Valley living in a striking mid-century modern.

WRITTEN BY SUSAN SPILLMAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

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“WE LOVED THAT IT HAD A GREAT DEAL OF MID-CENTURY MODERN CHARACTER BUT WITH ALL THE BENEFITS OF A BRAND-NEW HOUSE.”

M

ost people who move from the Westside over the hill spend months scoping out prospective homes. But not Barbara and Craig Segor.

The couple, who are partners in an aviation consulting firm, had barely discussed house hunting in the Valley when they spotted an online listing for a newly renovated, five-bedroom, fiveand-a-half-bath, mid-century modern in Encino.

Like many “transplants,” the Segors, wanted more space. They’d been living in a 2,100-square-foot house in Westwood with their two sons and were looking for square footage that was more affordable. Without a realtor onboard yet, Barbara called the listing agent, Brian Pane (Wish Sotheby’s International Realty) and booked a showing herself.

Once the family arrived, the handsome property didn’t disappoint. Located on a onethird-acre lot on a quiet cul-de-sac south of the Boulevard, the curb appeal of the A-frame structure was exceptional—with expanses of glass, solid oak panels, freshly painted white stucco and drought-tolerant landscaping.

From the moment the family, which includes sons Alex, 10, and Aidan, 8, walked through the stunning, custom, 6 foot by 12 foot, pivot frame front door, everyone was ready to move in.

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SINGULAR FOCUS Accesssories and bric-a-brac are kept to a minimum, allowing the striking bones of the house to take center stage.

“Alex even offered to give up his allowance if we could move here,” recalls Barbara.

The boys loved the 4,085 square feet of open space, the fact that each bedroom had its own bath and the huge circa-1960s swimming pool.

As for their parents, “We loved that it had a great deal of mid-century modern character but with all the benefits of a brand-new house,” says Barbara. She’s talking benefits such as Miele appliances, Tom Dixon lighting fixtures and custom, white oak builtins throughout, including an 84-bottle wine cooler.

“I wanted to keep the natural beauty but add what was needed to make it work for a family today,” says developer Vinny Nazerian of The Nazerian Group, who bought the property in 2017 and spent eight months meticulously overseeing every detail of the remodel.

The home was originally built by architect Cliff Burlew in 1960, for a local pediatrician and his family—the property’s only previous owners.

The most important aspects of the renovation were the addition of two bathrooms and opening up the kitchen. The first was accomplished by adding about 500 feet to the front of the home. According to Vinny, redoing the kitchen was more challenging, thanks to new building codes and the larger size of modern appliances.

Among the most striking changes is the fireplace. Initially constructed of brick and rock, it’s now a masterpiece of black granite, Calcutta marble and white oak.

Several of the skylights are original, but a few more were added. Some light fixtures were also repurposed, along with two spiffed-up, classic, circular metal room dividers. One was kept in the foyer; the other was used in the backyard as a fence.

Other key elements of the facelift include: replacing the terrazzo floors with 9-inchwide slats of white oak, painting the original beams black, replacing all the windows and eliminating the abundance of large, brown, Flintstone-style rocks so common to that era.

The backyard features two fire pits, an outdoor kitchen and lots of built-in seating.

Overgrowth from both the back and the front yards was swapped out for eco-friendly cactus, green willow, agave, Mexican feather grass and an assortment of succulents, which give the home a distinctly Palm Springs feel.

“I love everything about this house,” says Barbara. “We literally haven’t changed a light fitting.”

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Pristine and bathed in sunlight, it’s easy to see why. Unlike the home itself, the couple is taking their time buying new furnishings.

Thanks to the array of built-ins and architectural design, they don’t need a lot.

That leaves weekends to explore the Valley.

“We really enjoy living in Encino,” says Barbara. “The only thing Craig and I regret is that we didn’t move here sooner.” ■

BACK TO THE FUTURE The circular metal room divider

was part of the original home.

Right: a cozy breakfast nook with pendant lights by Graypants

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The World’s Most Fascinating Women.

They tell all on the SheSez podcast with Linda Grasso.

Learn how their bold, innovative—and sometimes badass—moves put them on the path to personal fulfillment.

Tune in to SheSez on Apple Podcasts with new episodes debuting each Tuesday. For more, go to SheSez.com.

design showcases

EDITED BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS & MONICA OROZCO

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LA FURNITURE STORE HENRY VILCHIK

52

ARCHITEXTURE ABBY ROSE

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ORIT SROUR DESIGNS ORIT SROUR

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CUSTOM DERIAN POOLS & CONSTRUCTION KERRI MCCOY

58 GRACE HOME FURNISHINGS

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ASD INTERIORS INC. SHIRRY DOLGIN

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LA TECHS CALVIN LARSEN & RUSS GASKAMP

design showcases

LA FURNITURE STORE HENRY VILCHIK, OWNER

4900 Triggs Street, Los Angeles | 866-397-0933 | LAFurniture.com

Tell us about your business.

“LA Furniture Store sells contemporary, modern, classic Italian and transitionalstyle furniture from three locations in Los Angeles, one showroom in New York and an e-commerce site. The store prides itself on its high-quality, affordable luxury inventory, along with customer service and competitive pricing.”

What makes your store unique?

“The incredibly well-designed brands we carry, our knowledgeable design associates who are intimately familiar with all 6,000 of our products—most with interior design backgrounds, and our amazing prices.”

How can you offer such an amazing selection and low prices?

“What differentiates LA Furniture Store is our relationship with the brands we represent.

We stock our own merchandise, so our sales team doesn’t rely on third-party stock when customers make their selections. Due to the volume of orders we process, we negotiate

the best prices available on the market, and pass this discount on to our customers.”

What if a customer can’t find a what they want in your store?

“We offer an extensive special order program that includes numerous fabrics, leathers and finishes. We have recently introduced the SHOP THE LOOK feature—room ideas designed and curated by our very own staff interior designers, helping you create impressive, decorated spaces in your home without paying the designer price.”

What special collections do you carry?

“We are happy to introduce Estro Milano Italian sectionals and sofa sets. The quality of leather is impeccable. We have exclusive, Italian-made bedroom sets that are very popular—in different colors and finishes. For designs that feature laser-etched, crocodilepatterned lacquer pieces, see our Armani Xavira Casa exotic luxury collection. Our designers travel around the world, which helps ensure that we are competitive.”

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design showcases

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design showcases

ARCHITEXTURE ABBY ROSE 12232 Ventura Blvd.

Studio City 818-760-3399 abbyrosedesign@yahoo.com architexturehome.com architextureinteriordesign.com

Describe the featured project.

“I am the owner of the furniture store Architexture as well as being an interior designer. The photos shown reflect both: a vignette from the store and some design projects. I designed the living room for a client who loves energy and always wants as much color as can be successfully used in each room. I renovated the fireplace, which originally had an oddly shaped, quite unattractive black marble surround.

I recreated the surround with printed stone tile mixed with solid stone tile to create a fireplace that is beautiful and looks like it has always been there. The masculine bedroom was for a single man who wanted a designer look without the ‘fuss.” The lovely room with the blue sofa is a project where the client wanted classic elegance with a bit of color in an understated way.”

What sets your firm apart?

“The experience of owning a furniture and interior design retail store for more than 20 years and the versatility of projects and clients I have worked with give me a unique perspective. The retail store makes sure I stay ahead of the trends, which translates into a newer, fresher design perspectives for my clients. My vast array of industry contacts allows me to source from a broader range of options or, if needed, have almost anything custom-designed and manufactured.

Even though we custom-make many products, they are quite reasonably priced.

We sell a lot of custom furniture in the store

but have even more options for interior design projects.

I have worked with clients on projects from super-modern to very traditional and have used everything from strong, bold colors to neutral schemes to create the space that they love. I even work with builders and renovators for kitchen and bath redesigns.”

What really excites you about what you do?

“I love the subtle interplay of fabrics, colors and textures in various spaces—probably due to having been a fashion designer for many years before I opened the store in 1994. I search diligently for the right combinations for each project, and I find that exciting.

However, mainly I am excited by experiencing the reaction of clients … first when they see the initial ideas (colors, fabrics, background materials) and later seeing how happy they are with the finished product!

Whether you are looking for one piece or a whole house redecoration, Architexture wants to be part of it. Come in for a unique shopping experience or call me to schedule a personal interior design consultation.”

What do clients say about you?

“A recent client says, ‘From the moment we walked into the store and met Abby Rose, we knew we had struck gold! The store was beautifully set up and showcased exquisite pieces in various vignettes—a real feast for the eyes—and just being in the space immediately inspired us.’”

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY BETHANY NAUERT

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ORIT SROUR DESIGNS ORIT SROUR 818-631-2595 oritsrour@gmail.com oritsrour.com @oritsrourdesigns

What is the most distinctive project you completed?

“A project I worked on for clients in Toluca Lake. The homeowners have exquisite taste and a noteworthy art collection. I was brought in to help update furnishings, rugs, wallpaper/paint and, most importantly, lighting. The client wanted unique, showstopping fixtures, so I turned to New Yorkbased Apparatus Studio. I went with largescale fixtures with a striking brass patina finish, which added an elevated and informed aesthetic. We also used an abstract, graphicprint wallpaper in large scale that brought a direct boldness to the entry. I love to introduce clients to these special elements that grab you when you walk into a room.”

What really excites you about what you do?

“The opportunity to work closely not only with clients but architects, structural engineers, tradesmen and skilled artisans who bring ideas and innovation to living spaces. I’m at my best when I’m working in a hive of creativity. I especially love when the architecture team brings me in early—before drawings have even begun—to provide a creative eye. Unique and special details can sometimes get lost in building plans.”

Tell us about your home.

“The homes my husband and I build for ourselves always end up being a laboratory to try new things. I try to push myself in ways I might not suggest to clients. For our current

house, which we rebuilt three years ago, I took a different approach. I wanted a home that made me feel happy, healthy and energized. I wanted a kitchen that was spacious with plenty of natural light, lots of steel-looking windows and doors, and natural materials that were beautiful to the touch. I had the same design objective that I take with clients: to balance traditional with modern and functionality coupled with aesthetics. With accessories, I took a less-ismore approach, filling spaces with things that have meaning. I used materials that respond to light and organic textures like metals, leather, wood and stone. Although I would have loved a striking contemporary look, because of the architecture the interiors had to remain classic and familiar.”

What makes a relationship between a designer and client successful?

“Like all relationships, communication is key.

As with any creative process there will be ebbs and flows and challenges that arise. I try to keep projects moving smoothly, help clients make timely decisions and stay on track with the vision we’ve agreed on. There is definitely a ‘vibe’ and style to my work, though it varies with each project. I try to work with clients who have similar design sensibilities and who ‘get’ what I bring to the table. The most important thing—regardless of what we are doing—is to start off on the same page. No matter how much something appeals to me, the most important thing is that it appeals to the client.”

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CUSTOM DERIAN POOLS & CONSTRUCTION KERRI MCCOY P.O. Box 1352 Moorpark 805-529-6677 derianpools@yahoo.com deriangc.com CSLB #977981

What sets your firm apart?

“We are a design/build firm. No need to hire a separate landscape architect. All our designs are original, done by our in-house, award-winning designer, Billy Blair. We take into consideration the client’s lifestyle, design tastes and personal needs when designing and building each project. I handle all the field construction and supervision and am an expert in hydraulics, structural engineering and soils conditions. I won the prestigious Masters of Design award from Pool & Spa News magazine, and my work has been featured in Architectural Digest, The Los Angeles Times Magazine and Sunset magazine. We work with major contractors and landscape architects and pride ourselves in being able to deliver the architect’s specifications and meet the client’s expectations.”

What excites you about what you do?

“Bringing clients’ dreams and visions to reality. If you can dream it, we can build it. Each project is treated with the utmost priority whether it is a small remodel or a full-scale new pool and complete backyard project. I enjoy unique challenges and pride myself on figuring out innovative solutions to site conditions others would shy away from.”

How do your homes integrate indoor/ outdoor living?

“All our projects are designed to integrate the backyard into the home so it is an extended area for entertainment. We integrate energy-

saving pumps and heaters, use solar when necessary and also are very conscious of the environment and recycle or repurpose building materials to leave a smaller footprint.”

What is unique about your services?

“We design and build our backyards as if they were our own, using personal touches and innovations. Billy has been designing homes, pools, classic cars, boats and furniture for more than 25 years; he has a vast knowledge of materials and color palettes that work well together. We also pride ourselves in ‘value engineering,’ which means we use products and materials that look expensive but don’t break the bank.”

Tell us about the history of your firm.

“We have been in business in the Valley since 1982. We have built more than 5,000 pools in Los Angeles and Ventura County. We both grew up here, have families here and are active members in the community.”

Describe your specialty.

“Our specialty is hillside construction, which requires special engineering and unique design requirements. We also specialize in building pools in small yards. We consider each project a work of art, including pools, spas, masonry, retaining walls, driveways, concrete, wood pergolas, pool houses, outdoor fireplaces, BBQs and landscaping.

We hold swimming pool contractor, general contractor and masonry licenses.”

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL GARLAND

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GRACE HOME FURNISHINGS 11632 Barrington Court Los Angeles | 310-476-7176 1001 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs | 760-904-6337 info@gracehomefurnishings.com gracehomefurnishings.com

Describe the featured project.

“The featured project is a Montecito-style Spanish home located in Calabasas. The owner wanted a clean, crisp look for the house, with her preference being contrasting black-and-white. We brought warmth to the house through the soft and tactile materials— a zigzag cowhide rug, sheepskin pillows and faux fur upholstery on the chairs. We added additional character by mixing modern and traditional furniture.”

Tell us about your firm and the services you offer.

“Grace Home Furnishings, founded in 2000 by designers Michael Ostrow and Roger Stoker, features two beautifully appointed showrooms featuring vibrant, inviting atmospheres where you can shop, place a custom order, or get personalized decorating advice from a team of in-house designers. Whether you are looking for a unique piece of furniture or full-scale interior design services, we can turn that vision into a reality that is classic and refined, elegant yet comfortable.”

What do clients love about working with you?

“We have years of experience designing interiors and building furniture for many different kinds of homes and people. We understand that the same fabrics and accessories that work for a single professional will not be practical for a family with young children. We can guide our clients to pieces that are not only aesthetically appealing but that work with their lifestyle as well.

Our customers appreciate our ability to make the design process simple, fun and

exciting. We love becoming part of their lives and following their careers, watching their kids grow up, etc. We enjoy working with them to adapt the design of their homes to fit their evolving needs and styles.”

What sets your firm apart?

“In addition to our showrooms and design projects, we also produce our own Grace Home Collection© of custom upholstery, case good pieces and fabric. All of our furniture is manufactured in Southern California, built to order and can be customized in any way. Our fabric line is printed locally on Belgian linen and features bold geometrics and graphic floral prints.

These custom capabilities allow us to create truly unique interiors for our clients.”

How do you “go the extra mile”?

“We pride ourselves on designing down to the smallest detail. From lampshade trim to custom pillows, we make sure each of our projects is unique and tailored specifically to each client’s taste.”

What is the most distinctive element in a project you’ve completed?

“We recently had the opportunity to use dark pink as the accent color throughout an entire house, which is a color we don’t get to use very often. It worked well as the house was all ivory with dark wood accents, and the pink gave it a lot of punch and excitement.”

What are you currently working on?

“A Sherman Oaks traditional, three Spanish/ Mediterranean-style homes in Palm Springs, a flat in San Francisco and a lake house in upstate New York. We also recently completed a grand Hidden Hills estate.”

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY ERIKA BIERMAN & MADELINE TOLLE

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ASD INTERIORS INC. SHIRRY DOLGIN 2110 Kenmere Avenue Burbank 818-588-3535 info@asdinteriors.com asdinteriors.com

What really excites you about what you do?

“I love it when I see how the work that my team and I create affects peoples lives. We get involved in the details of how our clients live in their homes and work in their office spaces in order to improve their overall environment. My team and I understand the nuances of each project, and we get excited when it all ‘clicks’ together.

However, the truly rewarding part is presenting all the hard work to the client with the final full installation. I’ve had clients tell me that the work we’ve produced is life-changing. I really believe great interior design can impact the overall well-being of someone’s life.”

What is unique about what you offer clients?

“My design firm is one of the only companies that can deliver full turnkey projects on a large scale for both residential and commercial clients. We are a close-knit team, and we work very well together in understanding our clients’ needs, vendor needs and the overall process so that we are able to execute a project with strong direction. ”

How do you handle a client who wants to do something that you think is bad idea?

“This is a tricky one because I don’t push my clients. I really listen and try to understand

the ‘bad idea’ and then evaluate if they are trying to solve a problem with a practical or emotional approach. Once I figure it out—since I am providing the professional guidance—I present other options that are more in line with the overall design plan. I truly believe there are many ways to solve a problem and navigate someone’s ‘bad idea,’ as long as both parties are willing to listen.

Usually after this process, we can meet in the middle with a thoughtful plan.”

Tell us about some of the projects you’re currently working on.

“We are very honored to have a wide range of commercial and residential projects.

We work with builders and developers all over Los Angeles, and we have several multifamily developments in production at various stages.

We begin these projects early on before they even break ground, and we give an identity to the building through the materials we specify (flooring, paint, tile, etc.) and the lighting design. We also plan and design all the common area interiors, along with the interiors of the units themselves. At the same time, we have several residential projects that are full-home renovations with furniture planning, selection, and installation.

Earlier this year we began work on the remodel for the original Robert Kardashian house. We are very excited to be involved with such a high-profile property.”

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LA TECHS CALVIN LARSEN & RUSS GASKAMP West LA & Sherman Oaks 310-919-5452 help@latechs.com latechs.com

Describe the featured project.

“We are excited about a project that we recently wrapped up for a client who purchased a south-of-the-Boulevard remodeled home. We were hired to customize all of the technology on the property. We upgraded existing components to have a more modern feel to match the updated architecture.

We installed TVs, security cameras, smart light switches, an expansive WiFi system and wall touchpads that allow the user to control various integrated systems in the home. One of the largest endeavors of this project was setting up the home theater. Projects of this magnitude take a lot of hard work and some smart troubleshooting, but it’s worth it when you can finally come home at the end of the day and press one button that turns on your lights, cues your favorite TV show and brews a cup of coffee for you.”

What sets your firm apart?

“We strive to provide long-lasting solutions for clients, not Band-Aid fixes. Our goal is to leave you confident in the work performed and happy with the results. Dealing with the constant change in the technology field is one of the biggest challenges facing our clients today. New devices come out so frequently that clients can be confused on which will best solve their problem and which will be the best fit for their budget. We can quickly assess the client’s needs and match them with the appropriate tech solution.”

What really excites you about what you do?

“Our young team of tech and gadget lovers

help us keep on the bleeding edge of entertainment and office technology. Complete familiarity with the latest products is key to providing the best support for clients.

Keeping up with the latest trends in technology is a difficult task, and we pride ourselves in always providing our clients the latest, most modern solutions for their offices and homes.”

How would you describe your specialty?

“In addition to standard IT support and managed services for large residential and business properties, we also specialize in home integration and automation, including audio/video, lighting systems, internet connectivity (WiFi), security cameras, advanced networking, pre-wiring, etc.”

What is a “tech score”?

“We can provide a ‘tech score’ to assist a homebuyer in their purchase. This involves the following: how ‘wired’ the house already is, how easy it will be to integrate existing systems, the age of any existing components, accessibility and approximate cost to outfit the house based on the request of the future homeowner. From there we can build a comprehensive plan for a modern tech house.”

How do you go the extra mile?

“We provide dedicated onsite and remote support by our trained IT staff. Clients receive the mobile numbers of their assigned technicians and are not pooled into a generic general inbox where their tech can change from day to day.”

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Mazel Tov Tov Mazel

de Toledo Toledo High High School School Class Class of of 2018!

2018! de

You Inspire Inspire Us. Us. You Emma Aaronson Aaronson Emma Gabrielle Abramov Abramov Gabrielle Eleanor Alishav Alishav Eleanor Melanie Anish Anish Melanie Mariah Asher Asher Mariah Lia Av-Tal Av-Tal Lia Aron Azami Azami Aron Dylan Bender Bender Dylan Elijah Bernhard Bernhard Elijah Sapir Bernshtein Bernshtein Sapir Jessica Birnbaum Birnbaum Jessica Erika Bloom Bloom Erika Samantha Bloom Bloom Samantha Michael Brandt Brandt Michael Harrison Bromberg Bromberg Harrison Daniel Bustan Bustan Daniel Spencer Cait Cait Spencer Noah Camras Camras Noah Lola Chen Chen Lola Elad Cohen Cohen Elad Jacob Crystal Crystal Jacob Sophia Dery Alec Eckmann Alec Esses Oran Evenhaim Zachary Fallas

Siena Foster-Soltis Foster-Soltis Siena Elliot Freeman Freeman Elliot Ben Friedman Friedman Ben Miller Friedman Miller Friedman Brandon Gertler Gertler Brandon Noa Getzug Getzug Noa Ronit Goldberg Goldberg Ronit Rebecca Goldman Goldman Rebecca Aviv Goldshide Goldshide Aviv Shayna Goldstein Goldstein Shayna Natalie Gordon Gordon Natalie Asher Grossman Grossman Asher Matthew Halaszi Halaszi Matthew Noam Haykeen Haykeen Noam Eitan Haziza Haziza Eitan Yarden Henn Henn Yarden Nelson Martins-Holo Martins-Holo Nelson Oriella Justin Justin Oriella Alexandra Kaplan Kaplan Alexandra Zachary Kaplan Kaplan Zachary Jonathan Krone Krone Jonathan Joshua Lainer Lainer Joshua Jonah Lavi Lavi Jonah Minnie Leaman Leaman Minnie Yonatan Leshem Leshem Yonatan Matthew Levin Levin Matthew

AdamRosenberg Rosenberg BarbaraLevitt LevittAlfasi Alfasi Adam Barbara MilanRubin Rubin EmmaLevitt Levitt Milan Emma JacobRudner Rudner MollyLevitt Levitt Jacob Molly Dylan Russo Carmel Lonstein Dylan Russo Carmel Lonstein KerenLonstein Lonstein AbigailSaxe Saxe Abigail Keren AdamSchoenfeld Schoenfeld JoshuaLousky Lousky Adam Joshua KateMankoff Mankoff ZacharySchulman Schulman Zachary Kate JaredShapiro Shapiro RoeyMevorach Mevorach Jared Roey RafaelMonkarsh Monkarsh EmilyShulman Shulman Emily Rafael JonathanSilver Silver LaurenOfman Ofman Jonathan Lauren RyleeSinger Singer RyanOfman Ofman Rylee Ryan RachelStubington Stubington ChanelOhevzion Ohevzion Chanel Rachel TommyTal Tal DanielaOrshansky Orshansky Tommy Daniela JacquelineOschin Oschin EthanTurner Turner Jacqueline Ethan LiaValner Valner JordanPeterkofsky Peterkofsky Lia Jordan GabrielleVanderlaan Vanderlaan MoriahPretsky Pretsky Moriah Gabrielle SimonaVishnevsky Vishnevsky LeePreuss Preuss Simona Lee HaleyPrice Price AdiWasserberg Wasserberg Adi Haley ArielPuterman Puterman ShaileeWazana Wazana Shailee Ariel JonahWeisberg Weisberg JonathanRashtian Rashtian Jonah Jonathan GabriellaResnick Resnick HannahWenger Wenger Hannah Gabriella EdwardWest West DanReuveni Reuveni Edward Dan MayaWitenberg Witenberg AlexandraRodnunsky Rodnunsky Maya Alexandra MollieWiviott Wiviott HenryRoland Roland Mollie Henry ShaniYakov Yakov CameronRose Rose Shani Cameron TiffanyYehuda Yehuda ShiraRosen Rosen Tiffany Shira

ACCEPTED TO TO THE THE FOLLOWING FOLLOWINGCOLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES GRADUATES WERE ACCEPTED Alabama •• Allegheny Allegheny College College••American AmericanJewish JewishUniversity University The University of Alabama University •• Arizona Arizona State State University University••The TheUniversity UniversityofofArizona Arizona•• • American University Bard College College •• Boston BostonUniversity University••Bradley BradleyUniversity University•• Ball State University •• Bard Brown University University •• Bucknell BucknellUniversity University••Butler ButlerUniversity University Brandeis University •• Brown of the the Arts Arts (San (San Francisco) Francisco)••California CaliforniaInstitute Instituteofofthe the • California College of Lutheran University University •• California CaliforniaState StatePolytechnic PolytechnicUniversity University- Arts • California Lutheran California Polytechnic Polytechnic State State University, University,San SanLuis LuisObispo Obispo••California California Pomona • California State University, Channel Channel Islands, Islands, East East Bay, Bay,Fullerton, Fullerton,Long LongBeach, Beach,Los LosAngeles, Angeles, Monterey Bay, Northridge Northridge •• University University of of California Californiaat atBerkeley, Berkeley,Davis, Davis,Irvine, Irvine,Los Los Angeles, Merced, Riverside, Riverside, San San Diego, Diego,Santa SantaBarbara, Barbara,Santa SantaCruz Cruz••Chapman Chapman University • College of of Charleston Charleston •Christopher •ChristopherNewport NewportUniversity University•Clark •Clark University • University University of of Colorado Colorado at at Boulder Boulder••Colorado ColoradoState StateUniversity University•• Connecticut College •• University University of of Connecticut Connecticut••University UniversityofofDelaware Delaware•• University of Denver •• Drake Drake University University •• Drexel DrexelUniversity University••Elon ElonUniversity University • Emerson College •• Emory Emory University University •• Endicott EndicottCollege College••Fashion FashionInstitute Institute of Design and Merchandising-Los Merchandising-LosAngeles Angeles •• Fordham FordhamUniversity University••The TheGeorge George Washington University University •• Georgia Georgia Institute Institute of ofTechnology Technology••Gonzaga GonzagaUniversity University•• Goucher College • Haverford Haverford College College •• University Universityof ofHawaii HawaiiatatManoa Manoa••Hawaii Hawaii Pacific University • Hofstra Hofstra University University •• Humboldt HumboldtState StateUniversity University••IDC IDCHerzliyaHerzliyaRaphael Recanati International International School School •• Indiana IndianaUniversity UniversityatatBloomington Bloomington•The •The University of Iowa • Ithaca Ithaca College College •• University Universityof ofKansas Kansas••University UniversityofofLa La Verne • Lafayette College College •• Lake Lake Forest Forest College College••Loyola LoyolaMarymount MarymountUniversity University •• Lynn Lynn University University •• Marist Marist College College •• University Universityof ofMary MaryWashington Washington••Maryland Maryland Institute Institute College College of of Art Art •• University University of of Maryland, Maryland,College CollegePark Park••University University of of Massachusetts, Massachusetts, Lowell Lowell •• Miami Miami University, University,Oxford Oxford••University UniversityofofMiami Miami •• University University of of Michigan Michigan •• University University of of Minnesota, Minnesota,Twin TwinCities Cities••University University of Missouri Columbia • Montclair State University • Muhlenberg College of Missouri Columbia • Montclair State University • Muhlenberg College•• University University of of New New Mexico Mexico •• New NewYork York University University••Northeastern NortheasternUniversity University•• Northern Northern Arizona Arizona University University •• Oberlin Oberlin College Collegeof ofArts Artsand andSciences Sciences••Occidental Occidental College College •• Ohio Ohio University University •• Ohio OhioWesleyan Wesleyan University University••The TheUniversity Universityofof Oklahoma Oklahoma •• University University of of Oregon Oregon •• Pace Pace University, University,New NewYork YorkCity City••University University of of the the Pacific Pacific •• University University of of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh •• Point PointPark ParkUniversity University••Portland Portland State State University University •• University University of of Puget Puget Sound Sound ••Purdue PurdueUniversity University••Quinnipiac Quinnipiac University University •• University University of of Redlands Redlands •• Reed Reed College College••Rensselaer RensselaerPolytechnic Polytechnic Institute • San Diego State University • San Francisco State University Institute • San Diego State University • San Francisco State University••University University of of San San Francisco Francisco •• Santa Santa Clara Clara University University •• School Schoolof ofthe theArt ArtInstitute InstituteofofChicago Chicago •• Seattle Seattle University University •• Skidmore Skidmore College College •• Sonoma SonomaState StateUniversity University••University University of of Southern Southern California California •• Southern Southern Methodist Methodist University University••Southern SouthernOregon Oregon University University •• St. St. Mary’s Mary’s College College of of Maryland Maryland ••SUNY SUNYCollege CollegeatatGeneseo Geneseo••SUNY SUNY Oswego Oswego •• Syracuse Syracuse University University •• Texas TexasA&M A&M University University••Trinity TrinityCollege College••Truman Truman State University • Tufts University • Tulane University • Union College (New State University • Tufts University • Tulane University • Union College (NewYork) York) •• University University of of Utah Utah •• Wake Wake Forest Forest University University••Washington WashingtonState StateUniversity University •• Washington University in St. Louis • University of Washington • Wesleyan Washington University in St. Louis • University of Washington • Wesleyan University University •• Whitman Whitman College College •• Whittier Whittier College College••Willamette WillametteUniversity University•• University of Wisconsin, Madison • Yale University University of Wisconsin, Madison • Yale University

We We Build Build Community, Community, One One Mind Mind at at a Time. a Time.

22622 Vanowen Street,West Hills, CA 91307 22622 Vanowen Street,West Hills, CA 91307 818-348-0048 | dTHS.org 818-348-0048 | dTHS.org

Valleydictorians Here we tip our hats to the valedictorians of high schools in the Valley, sharing their college choices and some of their speeches.

Indeed, the future looks bright.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS

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Gabriella Resnick DETOLEDO HIGH SCHOOL CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY “You have two choices at every crossing. You can choose fear or love. You can choose to accept defeat or challenge it.

Do not be afraid to make your mark.

Do not be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Where there’s fear, there’s growth. Explore that fear and learn from your growth.”

Anthony Pineci VIEWPOINT SCHOOL CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY “There is always going to be someone who is more skilled at what you do than you are. It’s all too easy to torment yourself by comparing your own worth to theirs, asking, ‘Why can’t I be more like them?’ Instead of trying to become someone who you aren’t, it is better to ask what you could become.”

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CONGRATULATIONS TO VIEWPOINT SCHOOL’S 117 SENIORS IN THE CLASS OF 2018 FOR THEIR ACCEPTANCES TO OUTSTANDING COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.

The University of Alabama • American University • The American University of Paris • Arizona State University, Barrett Honors College • The University of Arizona • Auburn University • Bard College • Baylor University • Boston College • Boston University • Brigham Young University, Idaho • University of British Columbia • Bryn Mawr College • Bucknell University • Butler University • California Institute of Technology • California Institute of the Arts • California Lutheran University • California State Polytechnic University - Pomona • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo • California State University, Channel Islands • California State University, Chico • California State University, East Bay • California State University, Fullerton • California State University, Long Beach • California State University, Monterey Bay • California State University, Northridge • California State University, San Marcos • University of California, Berkeley • University of California, Davis • University of California, Irvine • University of California, Los Angeles • University of California, Merced • University of California, Riverside • University of California, San Diego • University of California, Santa Barbara • University of California, Santa Cruz • Carleton College • Carnegie Mellon University • Case Western Reserve University • Chapman University • College of Charleston • Chatham University • University of Chicago • Claremont McKenna College • Colgate University • University of Colorado at Boulder • University of Colorado at Denver • Colorado College • Colorado School of Mines • Colorado State University • Columbia University • Connecticut College • University of Connecticut • Cornell University • Creighton University • Denison University • University of Denver • DePaul University • Dickinson College • Drexel University • Eckerd College • Emerson College • Emory University • Fairleigh Dickinson University • Fordham University • George Mason University • The George Washington University • Georgia Institute of Technology • Gettysburg College • Harvey Mudd College • University of Hawaii at Manoa • Hobart and William Smith Colleges • Hofstra University • Humboldt State University • University of Idaho • Indiana University at Bloomington • Ithaca College • University of Kentucky • Kenyon College • King's College London • University of La Verne • Lafayette College • Lawrence University • Lehigh University • Lewis & Clark College • University of Louisville • Loyola Marymount University • Loyola University Chicago • Marist College • Maryland Institute College of Art • University of Maryland, College Park • Massachusetts College of Art and Design • University of Massachusetts, Amherst • McGill University • Miami University, Oxford • University of Miami • Michigan State University • University of Michigan • Middlebury College • University of Minnesota, Twin Cities • University of Missouri Columbia • Montana State University, Bozeman • The University of Montana, Missoula • Moorpark College • University of Nebraska at Lincoln • University of Nevada, Las Vegas • University of New Hampshire at Durham • New York University • The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill • Northeastern University • Northern Arizona University • Northwestern University • University of Notre Dame • NYU Shanghai • Occidental College • Oregon State University • University of Oregon • Otis College of Art and Design • Otterbein University • Pace University, New York City • Pacific Northwest College of Art • University of the Pacific • Pennsylvania State University • University of Pennsylvania • Pepperdine University • Pierce College • Pratt Institute • Princeton University • University of Puget Sound • Purdue University • Quinnipiac University • University of Redlands • Reed College • Rice University • Richmond, The American International University in London • Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology • Sacred Heart University • San Diego State University • University of San Diego • San Francisco State University • University of San Francisco • San Jose State University • Santa Clara University • Santa Monica College • Sarah Lawrence College • Savannah College of Art and Design • School of the Art Institute of Chicago • Seattle University • Seton Hall University • Skidmore College • Smith College • Sonoma State University • University of South Carolina • University of Southern California • Southern Methodist University • Stanford University • Syracuse University • The University of Tampa • Temple University • University of Tennessee, Knoxville • Texas A&M University • Texas A&M University, Commerce • Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi • Texas Christian University • The University of Texas at Austin • The New School • University of Toronto • Trinity College • Trinity University • Tufts University • Tulane University • Union College • The University of Edinburgh • University of Exeter • The University of Northampton • University of St Andrews • University of Suffolk • University of Utah • Vanderbilt University • Vassar College • Virginia Tech • University of Virginia • Washington and Jefferson College • Washington State University • Washington University in St. Louis • University of Washington • Western Washington University • Whitman College • Whittier College • Whitworth University • Willamette University • College of William and Mary • University of Wisconsin, Madison • Yale University

WE WISH THEM WELL IN THEIR BRIGHT FUTURES AHEAD.

23620 Mulholland Highway | Calabasas, California 91302 | 818.591.6500 | www. viewpoint .org

Shaan Jagani NORTH HOLLYWOOD HIGH SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY

Benji Walters BRIGHTON HALL UNIVERSITY OF PORTLAND “We’ve spent 18 years on this wellworn path. No more forks in the road, no more twists and turns to navigate. Today we’ve reached the end of the journey. With education and experience as our map and our compass, we will experience a new kind of freedom, as we set our sights on the next destination.”

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Vivian Lu (not pictured)

HARVARDWESTLAKE SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

Congratulations Class of

Congratulations, Class of 2018!

Colleges and universities that the Class of 2018 graduates will be attending include:

Bennington College

Loyola Marymount University

University of California, Riverside

Berklee College of Music

Michigan State University

University of California, Santa Cruz

Boston University

New York University

University of Colorado at Boulder

Brandeis University

Northwestern University

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Brown University

Oberlin College

University of Miami

Carnegie Mellon University

Occidental College

University of Michigan

Chapman University

Pasadena City College

University of Oregon

Colburn School

Santa Clara University

University of Richmond

Colby College

Sewanee: The University of the South

University of San Diego

Colgate University

Southern Methodist University

University of Southern California

Colorado College

Stanford University

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Connecticut College

Syracuse University

University of Utah

Duke University

The New School

University of Wisconsin, Madison

Elon University

The University of Arizona

Vassar College

Grinnell College

Tulane University

Washington University in St. Louis

Howard University

United States Military Academy

Weber State University

Indiana University at Bloomington

United States Naval Academy

Wesleyan University

John Cabot University

University of California, Berkeley

Willamette University

Lehigh University

University of California, Davis

Williams College

Lewis & Clark College

University of California, Los Angeles

Yale University

Campbell Hall is a community of inquiry committed to academic excellence and to the nurturing of decent, loving and responsible human beings.

Episcopal, independent, coeducational college preparatory day school for grades kindergarten through 12. campbellhall.org • 4533 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA 91607 • 818.980.7280 • Follow us @campbellhallvikings

German Shabanets BUCKLEY SCHOOL STANFORD UNIVERSITY “I urge you to love and stay involved in the future of our country, yet strive to gain internationality. Moving to a random place 9,796 kilometers (nope, not miles) away from home was eye-opening. Walk in an immigrant’s shoes, visit places far, far away from your comfort zone—put those credit card travel miles to work!

Take that semester abroad in college and start learning a new language or focus on what has forever been on your to-do list.

Time isn’t next month, next week or even tomorrow—time is now. Perhaps you’ll feel ridiculously uncomfortable and silly. But what’s so bad about that?”

Roshan Jagani NORTH HOLLYWOOD HIGH SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY

Connor Zacky (not pictured)

CRESPI CARMELITE HIGH SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

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We offer a unique seven-year learning experience that combines a rigorous academic curriculum with robust offerings and extra-curricular activities. We prepare students for success in college and beyond while fostering in them deep moral values and a commitment to service that is grounded in the Catholic faith.

CALL TO SCHEDULE A

CAMPUS TOUR CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS

CLASS OF 2018!

Middle School

High School

19800 Devonshire St. Chatsworth, CA 91311 818.363.8127

7500 Chaminade Ave. West Hills, CA 91304 818.347.8300

chaminade.org A WCEA/WASC accredited school.

June 2018.indd 1

6/2/2018 11:54:36 AM

Rooted in tradition. Inspired by innovation.

Congratulations to the Class of 2018

Kadima Day School Congratulates the Class of 2018!

We are so proud of the young adults you have become and wish you the best on the next step in your educational journey and beyond!

#TheKadimaWay

Kadima Students will be attending the following High Schools in the fall: Crespi Carmelite High School DeToledo High School El Camino High School Taft Steam Magnet High School

Learn.Inspire.Grow.

This year’s 6th grade graduates have been accepted to: Archer School for Girls Brentwood School The Buckley School Brighton Hall School Campbell Hall School Geffen Academy at UCLA

Harvard-Westlake School Marlborough School Milken Community School Oakwood School Sierra Canyon School Viewpoint School

13639 Victory Boulevard, Valley Glen, CA 91401 • 818.782.4001 www.laurenceschool.com

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Kieran Gilmore SIERRA CANYON STANFORD UNIVERSITY “SpongeBob works so hard for his driver’s license that he forgets what he could actually do without it: jellyfishing, saving the town from killer butterflies, returning Neptune’s crown and cooking a mean Krabby Patty. He’s capable of so many things without that card in his pocket, much like how our diplomas work. We’re capable of an unimaginable magnitude of anything, with the undying will to promote goodness in the world. Our diplomas are nice to have, but I urge you to never forget what you’ve done up to this point.

Remember what you all have been capable of without that paper hanging on your wall.”

Rafael (Raffi) Monkarsh DETOLEDO HIGH SCHOOL REED COLLEGE “I think it the responsibility of anyone who claims to be active to pursue this pressure and, if it is not encouraged extraneously, challenge and push themselves even just a bit beyond what they think they are capable of.”

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Grace Mathews (not pictured)

NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ “As I look back on the class of 2018, I feel infinite gratitude for my determinate and passionate peers.

It has become clear that there is a flame enlivened in us all, not just at my Alma Mater, Notre Dame, but also in my generation—throughout the country. My wish is to keep this flame burning brightly, as I pass the torch from our own class to the next, remembering that conviction in one’s actions and words can truly work as the light of the future.”

Congratulations,Class of 2018!

We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2018 graduates who have achieved a 100% acceptance rate to four-year collegiate programs and admission to over 150 college and/or university programs. Names and numbers below represent a select list of acceptances.

All institutions with one or more graduates attending are denoted in bold.

Academy of the Art University (2) American University (2) Amherst College Barnard College Boston College (8) Boston University (3) Brown University Bucknell University Colgate University (2) College of the Holy Cross (3) Dartmouth College (2) Emerson College (2) Emory University (4) Fordham University (15) Franklin University Switzerland George Washington University (11) Georgetown University (3) Gonzaga University (6) Grinnell College Kenyon College Lewis & Clark College (4) Loyola Marymount University (14)

University of California, Santa Barbara (9) University of California, Santa Cruz (12) University of Colorado at Boulder (12) University of Georgia University of Massachusetts (3) University of Miami (2) University of Michigan (7) University of Minnesota (2) University of Notre Dame University of Pennsylvania (3) University of Richmond University of San Diego (6) University of Southern California (13) University of Texas at Austin University of Virginia (2) University of Washington (7) University of Wisconsin, Madison (10) Vassar College Villanova University For more information Wake Forest University on this outstanding Wesleyan University (2) group of young Williams College

Miami University, Oxford (4) Middlebury College Mount Saint Mary’s University (2) New York University (2) Northeastern University (10) Northwestern University Oberlin College Occidental College Reed College Santa Clara University (17) Southern Methodist University (9) St. John’s College Stanford University Syracuse University (4) Texas Christian University (8) The New School - Parsons (2) Trinity College (2) Tulane University (10) University of California, Berkeley (8) University of California, Davis (8) University of California, Los Angeles (7) University of California, Riverside (5)

women, please visit:

www.mhs-la.org/Classof2018

Brighton Hall congratulates its graduating class of 12 AWESOME students!

Discover Brighton Hall 4 -12 C O L L E G E R E A D I N E S S FOR YO U N G P R O F E S S I O N A L S

Our 10 college-bound grads have amassed more than $1 million in scholarships, proving once again that Brighton Hall might be small but can stand tall. With our uniquely flexible curriculum, we provide the perfect learning environment for young working professionals in the entertainment biz, as well as students who prefer an intimate, creative, academic setting. Check out our website or call for a personal tour of our school.

disco

verb

WA S C A C C R E D I T E D

Where Young Professionals Thrive right

onha

ll

ROLLING YEAR-ROUND ENROLLMENT

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES 2018 w w w. b rig h t on h a ll s ch ool. org

818 985 9485

755 N. Whitnall Hwy, Burbank, CA 91505

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Oh, the Places They’ll Go... accepted by these wonderful high schools!

Archer School Brentwood School Buckley School Campbell Hall School Chaminade College Preparatory Crespi Carmelite High School de Toledo High School Flintridge Preparatory School Geffen Academy Harvard-Westlake School Immaculate Heart

Fearless scholars.

Conscientious citizens.

Louisville High School Loyola High School Marlborough School Marymount High School Notre Dame High School Oaks Christian School Providence High School Sierra Canyon School Viewpoint School Westridge School Windward School

Nursery to 8th Grade 16000 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90049 • 310-476-6421 • BerkeleyHall.org License #191604221

Congratulations to the 2018 graduates of The Help Group schools!

DIVERSE NEEDS

Village Glen School Summit View School

Bridgeport School Westview

Bridgeport Vocational Education Center North Hills Prep

Young Learners Preschool Parkhill School

Sunrise School

Our Newest School

STEM3 Academy

Founded in 1975, The Help Group is the largest, most innovative and comprehensive nonprofit of its kind in the United States serving children, adolescents and young adults with special needs related to autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, ADHD, developmental delays, abuse and emotional challenges.

ASSESSMENT

The Help Group’s ten specialized day schools offer pre-K through high school programs for more than 1,600 students. Its broad range of mental health and therapy services and residential programs extends its reach to more than 6,000 children and their families each year. With more than 900 staff members, The Help Group’s state-of-the-art schools and programs are located on five campuses in the Los Angeles area.

COACHING

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS 18+ PROGRAMS SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING PARENT EDUCATION AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT DAY CAMPS

CULVER CITY | SHERMAN OAKS EAST | SHERMAN OAKS WEST VALLEY GLEN | VAN NUYS

8 7 7 . 9 4 3 . 5 7 4 7 | w w w. t h e h e l p g ro u p . o rg

Kelson Haas STEM3 ACADEMY (VALLEY GLEN CAMPUS) SANTA MONICA COLLEGE “There is nothing impossible to those who will try.”

Aaron Feldman MILKEN COMMUNITY SCHOOLS CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY “In both shaping and understanding the world, the scientist must not see himself as central but as a powerful actor. Values outside the individual scope must motivate the work. When lifetime endeavors are pursued solely for the sake of personal desires: money, fame or even passion, it is not enough. You must consider the benefit to not only yourself but to others.”

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CLASS of 2018

INCRED18LE!

CLASS of 2018

Congratulations to Our 6th Grade Graduates!

Ariel, Aviva, Ben, Brandon, Brianna, David, Elijah, Eytan, Jacob, Jordyn, Lauren, Leah, Shanee, and Sydney We are so proud of these students who gained acceptance to the following middle schools:

The Buckley School Campbell Hall Heschel Day School

Milken Community Schools Sierra Canyon Westridge

12020 Burbank Blvd., Valley Village, CA 91607 • 818.766.4992 • aaedayschool.org

Congratulations to our graduates who were accepted at the following middle schools: Berkeley Hall School, The Buckley School, Campbell Hall, Chandler School, Flintridge Preparatory School, Geffen Academy, Harvard-Westlake School, Heschel Day School, Laurel Hall School, Milken Community Schools, New Roads School, Oakwood School, Viewpoint School, Westridge School for Girls, Wildwood School, Windward School www.LosEncinosSchool.org 17100 Ventura Blvd. • Encino, CA 91316

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SOCA

14015 VENTURA BLVD SHERMAN OAKS SOCA-LA.COM

BONEYARD BISTRO

13539 VENTURA BLVD SHERMAN OAKS BONEYARDBISTRO.COM

the sauce

GARDEN PARTY

Dine farm to table...really.

More on the next page.

the sauce

Gardener & Gourmand

An enchanting alfresco dinner at Saddlerock Ranch begins and ends in the garden.

WRITTEN BY JOSHUA LURIE

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the sauce Amble along windy Kanan Road, south of the 101 Freeway and you’ll find Saddlerock Ranch. The sprawling, multi-faceted estate, owned by the Semler family, houses Saddlerock Family Estate Vineyards, Malibu Wine Safari and Malibu Wine Hikes.

The ranch also host countless events, weddings and enchanting biweekly garden dinners, one of which I recently attended at the property’s outdoor dining venue, Saddlerock Garden.

It is a unique experience—even your arrival. Heading down the long, twisting driveway, you’ll pass by pens of zebras and Asian water buffalo. Diners check in for seat assignments next to a sun-bleached blue bus and are handed a wine glass that’s quickly filled with crisp, 2016 Saddlerock Rosé. Everyone is advised to “keep your glass” as wine flows all night.

Farmer Nick Barner kicked off the five-hour evening by leading a tour of a former horse pasture that recently entered its third year as an organic vegetable garden. We walked the rows, passing “Windsor” fava beans, purplehued sage varietals and pineapple-flavored “California Wonder” sweet peppers, and numerous tomato varieties.

Nick explained the concept of “companion planting”— pairing potatoes with lettuce, for instance, boosts both crops; incorporating native flowers and weeds encourages biodiversity.

Back at the “kitchen,” tantalizing hors d’oeuvres—freshly picked fava beans, prosciutto-wrapped dates filled with feta, sliced Pecorino and crusty sourdough—were presented on an open-air wood platform.

Resident chef Alina Hardin rotates in different cooks for each farm-to-table dinner. During our visit, Paola Guasp and Corrina Becker-Wayman from Amara Kitchen in Highland Park were running the show. Katie Hardin (Alina’s younger sister) from Elf Café in Echo Park and David Wilcox of Journeymen in Atwater Village are other chefs who have been at the helm. Regardless of the chef, all the menus focus on healthy, seasonal food sourced from Saddlerock’s garden.

Highlights from the Amara Kitchen chefs’ five-course, family-style dinner included ham hocks and Beluga lentils braised with beer, honey and carrots, topped with stewed collard greens; wild King salmon with fennel date pesto; and Pecorino sage grits topped with mushrooms, parsley, microgreens and marigold-spiked salad.

After dinner, diners are encouraged to stick around for coffee or cinnamon tea, to explore the grounds and to play games like Jenga or cornhole. They can also sample some honey produced by Alina’s partner, Eli Lichter-Marck, a treat that —along with the entire Saddleback Garden evening— was infinitely sweet. ■ Saddlerock Gardens 31727 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu 424-346-0041 saddlerockgardens.org/dinner-in-the-garden

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PRO FILES

Taste of the Valley This August, we’ll introduce an array of local chefs and restaurants devoted to shaping the Valley’s culinary landscape.

Whether you are a pub crawler or a French food fanatic, Ventura Blvd magazine has you covered in our annual Taste of the Valley section.

TO J OIN T H E COL L E C T ION CO N TAC T U S AT 31 0. 376 .78 0 0 OU RV E NT U RAB LV D@ MOON TI D E M E D I A .CO M V E NT U RAB LV D.GOL DE NSTATE . I S

Encino’s Home Away From Home

BAR I DINING ROOM I PATIO I PRIVATE ROOM (818) 855-1203 I 16120 Ventura Blvd. Encino, CA I davenportsrestaurant.com

Road to Belgium Since selling Golden Road Brewing, Tony Yanow has been steadily building a restaurant and bar empire.

Bluebird Brasserie is his latest debut.

WRITTEN BY JOSHUA LURIE

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Tony Yanow is a guy who knows beer. He co-founded Golden Road Brewing, which Anheuser-Busch acquired in 2015. He’s also the proprietor behind two other noteworthy LA-area beer bars, Mohawk Bend and Tony’s Darts Away. For the past couple of years, he has been rapidly rolling out beercentric establishments across SoCal with the Artisanal Brewers Collective partnership. The latest inclusion, Bluebird Brasserie in Sherman Oaks, was an idea born out of a trip Tony took to Belgium. “The original idea came from a day I spent in the countryside—you guessed it— drinking beer. I saw the most delightful little bluebirds. I knew while I was on that trip that I wanted to bring a bit of the Belgian brewpub experience to Los Angeles,” Tony shares. The Artisanal partnership group took over the lease in the old Señor Fred spot and renovated the space to resemble La Trappiste, a famed beer bar in Bruges. Reminiscent of a cellar, it features red brick arches, copper accents and high-top tables that offer views of the glass-fronted brewhouse. Awardwinning brewer Noah Regnery helms “hoperations.” As he does with The Stalking Horse

Brewery & Freehouse in Rancho Park and The Bell Marker in San Diego—two other brewpubs the group owns—he prides himself on innovation. “As long as I haven’t lost my mind completely and am keeping things within a reasonable parameter, we have free reign to create and riff,” Noah explains. The Belgianinspired program starts with house beers like the light Chapeau du Jour amber, sweeter Les Incompetents saison and Dubbel Dutch, their darker, maltier dubbel. Noah points out, “Everything is prefaced with ‘Belgianstyle,’ because we’re not in Belgium.” Paige Reilly, who is the director of operations, adds, “What’s really awesome about Belgian beer is that they don’t ‘taste like beer …’ you know, the yellow fizzy stuff that [people] may be used to drinking.” For now Bluebird varietals, brewed right on site, are only available here.

In theory, they could fill all 15 taps with their house-made beers. Instead the brewery supplements with guest taps of Belgian-style brews from trusted domestic brands like The Lost Abbey and The Bruery. Select bottles from Belgium are also offered.

Paige views Bluebird’s detailed beer

menu as a conversation starter. “A) We always put the ABV on because we never want to give someone a 13% beer and have them say, ‘These are great. I’ll take three!’

B) Who makes it? We want to of course give credit to the awesome brewers who make the stuff. C) We put the style because for those who understand beer, it will give them a description. For those who don’t understand beer, they’ll at least have something to help them ask a question.”

The food menu is about what you’d expect. Along with standard bistro fare like roasted chicken and a turkey sandwich, Bluebird offers several Belgian dishes including four varieties of moules frites (mussels and fries), two steak frites entrees and beer cheese croquettes.

“This spot really spoke to us when we first saw it, and we haven’t second guessed it,” says Tony. Considering his vaunted track record and team, perhaps we shouldn’t either. ■ Bluebird Brasserie 13730 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks 818-849-6970, bluebirdbrasserie.com

DRINK IT IN The team from Bluebird Brasserie offers advice on how to truly experience craft beer.

ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT NOAH: Be open-minded. We’re probably going to have things that you’ve never pictured as beer.

PAIGE: Drink everything. I remember when I first started in the beer industry, I tasted so many things that I didn’t think I would like that I did like.

DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK PAIGE: Generally, people who don’t think they like beer or don’t know a lot about beer, stay away from darker and richer beers. That’s actually not what they should do. Most of the time, darker and richer beers are going to be creamier, sweeter and feel different in your mouth. They’re going to be a lot less “beer-y.”

HELP A GUY OUT NOAH: Have an idea of what you’re in the mood for, so you can articulate that to the server, i.e., “I like bitter things.” Or “I like spicy food.” Know what flavors you prefer in general and see if there’s a beer that fits that.

STAY TRUE TO YOUR BUDS NOAH: No matter what your taste, you’re never wrong. I always cringe when people dictate flavor descriptions or aroma descriptions or any kind of sensory experience because it’s always an individual experience, no matter what. Trust in what you taste and what you like, and don’t let somebody push you around.

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Fully Reformed Mighty Pilates combines the intensity of a full-body workout with a “scentual” vibe.

Working with clients to get long, lean muscles and a strong core is an integral goal at any pilates studio. But at Mighty Pilates in Sherman Oaks, there’s another objective that lies not so much in the end game— but the present. Owner Cricket Wardein takes a creative, somewhat sensual, approach to the pilates experience—and it works.

When you walk into Mighty Pilates, you can’t help but notice, it smells good, damn good. That’s because there is a small oil diffuser emitting botanical, oil-scented mist near the entry. And on the way out, clients can cool down with mildly fragranced, chilled towels.

“Most people don’t have time every day to work out and hit the

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spa. So we try to bring some of the spa vibes to the studio with great tunes, everything you need to get ready, filtered electrolyte water and cold lemon, and eucalyptus and lavender scented towels. And on Friday nights, we serve champagne after class to celebrate a week of hard work,” shares Cricket.

Hard work is something Cricket appreciates. As a former top-tier digital marketing strategist, she moved up the ladder quickly. But after her daughter was born, she needed a schedule that worked with motherhood. The first Mighty Pilates opened in San Francisco, the second in Santa Monica, and in 2017, it debuted on the Boulevard. “I live in the Valley, and I can actually walk to work,” Cricket quips.

Classes, held in a large, airy space with bright blue walls on one side and a large window facing the street on another, are a modern mash-up. Most combine classical Pilates (on a reformer) with “various toys to give it more intensity.” Jump Board and TRX are two of the more challenging classes, but there are also ones for beginners. “We don’t dictate a set cookie-cutter class; that gets boring after a few sessions. Each instructor integrates their own style and we love offering the variety.” ■

Built to Entertain Visiting LEGOLAND’s new medieval-themed Castle Hotel WRITTEN BY HEATHER DAVID

From the moment you walk into the Grand Hall (aka lobby) of the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, with its statuesque fountain filled with LEGOs, you realize you’re in for a unique experience. The structure is constructed from over three million LEGO bricks and features 2,100 LEGO models, including a magical wizard and 130 sleeping mice. Another fun feature is a “secret slide” that goes from the second floor to the lobby.

The medieval decor extends to each of the 250 rooms, with themes like Knights and Dragons, Magic Wizards and Royal Princess. Parents will appreciate the fact that the kids’ sleeping area is separated from theirs by a full bath and is equipped with bunk beds and a built-in plasma TV. While dining at Dragon’s Den restaurant, our girls enjoyed interactive games (Fairy Hide and Seek and Knights School) as well as the various LEGO characters roaming around throughout the meal. Later, they watched plays and musicals at the “Castle Courtyard Stage” and movies in an outdoor theater on the property.

A key feature of the Castle: you’re just steps from the park—particularly helpful for those with infants and toddlers. Taking a midday break for a nap or retrieving a bottle is a cinch. ■ LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad

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GARDEN VARIETY From floral prints to feminine ruffles, a taste of summer style in full bloom.

STYLED BY TANYA MONAGHAN

| PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHELBY GOLDSTEIN

HAIR BY AMBER DUARTE | MAKEUP BY SARA DENMAN SHOT ON LOCATION AT SOUTH COAST BOTANIC GARDEN IN PALOS VERDES

Lightweight trench coat by LNA, $165; Beach and Beverly in Hermosa Beach.

Spring floral print dress by Rebecca Taylor, $495; Nordstrom Westfield Topanga. Yellow gold-plated cigar band with CZ stones by Melinda Maria, $98, and silver and 18k yellow gold shield ring by Armenta, $1,690; Morgan’s Jewelers.

Floral print minidress by Zimmermann, $896; Neiman Marcus Westfield Topanga. Checked blazer by La Prestic Ouiston, $956; Wright’s in Manhattan Beach. Morgan’s rose gold rosary with diamonds, $3,150, and 18k black and 18k rose gold multi-row ring with diamonds, $3,850; Morgan’s Jewelers.

Snake-linked chain bracelet, $78; Third Gallery in Manhattan Beach. Lola cap, $154; lackofcolor.com.au. Mini cooper straw bag by Hat Attack, $92; lyst.com.

This page: Trench coat by LNA, $165; Beach and Beverly in Hermosa Beach. Olive quilted bandeau maillot swimsuit by Sea Folly, $172; seafolly.com.au or Sea Folly Concept in Manhattan Beach.

Desert leaf print pants

by Giada Forte, $495; cabanacanary.com.

Basket woven bag, $50; The Beehive in Manhattan Beach.

On right: See-through black and white mesh top by Jade, $125; BLVD in Manhattan Beach. Polkadot midi dress by For Love & Lemons, $216; Beach and Beverly. Black sandals by Sofft, $100; sofftshoe.com.

seen

Solid Gold

PHOTOGRAPHED BY CLIFFORD WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

Maia Suckle and Rhonda Notary hosted a grand opening celebration for their new state-of-the-art dance facility, THE INDUSTRY Dance Academy in Sherman Oaks. Guests were treated to a performance by Avery Gay and Marcus Sarjeant, and celebrity choreographer Tabitha D’umo taught a master class.

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seen

Animal Kingdom

Nearly 1,000 guests helped raise $1.52 million at the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association Beastly Ball. Rockers Nancy Wilson and Slash were among the performers to hit the stage. This year’s fundraiser honored animal expert and conservationist Jack Hanna.

The Zoo’s Connie Morgan and John Lewis with one of the evening’s performers Haley Reinhart

PHOTO CREDIT: JAMIE PHAM

Blake and Heather Mycoskie

Nancy Wilson and Slash on stage

Beastly Ball performers Nancy Wilson and Liv Warfield with keeper Allison and a Bateleur eagle

Julie Chang with husband, Leif Drake, and son Driggs

Beastly Ball honoree, Jack Hanna (center) with Casey and Laura Wasserman

Rich and Melanie Lichtenstein

Tyler and Lisa Kelley

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Chefs in the House

Casa Vega’s Christy Fowler co-hosted a sold-out, six-course “Prohibition Era Tijuana” dinner at her family’s restaurant—all part of the LA Times Food Bowl. Every guest received two cookbooks: Soul of Baja by Javier Plascencia and LA Mexicano by Bill Esparza. Christy, Javier and Roberto each prepared two courses for the meal. Christy’s dad, Ray Vega, one of the first immigrants to open a Mexican restaurant in the downtown area off Olvera Street, was honored at the event.

Uncorked The streets of Tujunga Village were packed for Springtime in the Village Wine & Jazz Festival and Street Faire. Attendees got a chance to sip more than 100 wines and listen to live jazz performances. The event was hosted by Vitello’s Restaurant.

Jane Kaplan, Janet Shuman, Phil Shuman

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Award-winning Academy now taking reservations for the

seen

2018-19 School Year

Ode To Design

LEGENDS 2018 kicked off its annual convention for the design industry with a book-signing party. Thomas Jayne and Ted Loos signed copies of Classical Principles for Modern Design. The event was held at Paul Ferrante’s recently redesigned showroom.

photo credit - Iker Gutierrez

Ballet, Jazz Contemporary

Tap, Hip Hop Pre-Professional Ballet

Preschool dance - ages 3+ & Adult program

Schedules and information at www.laballet.com Call (818) 382-2500 for an evaluation today.

Registration will continue until classes are full.

BOYS PROGRAM!

Audition: Wed, Aug 1 @ 4 pm Call for details!

Free all-boys class weekly for accepted boys with male instructor.

RLYLIN!G R U H SES FI

T FAS

CLAS

Artistic Director Andrea Paris-Gutierrez and LABA’s distinguished faculty - inspiring dancers for over 25 years.

Los Angeles Ballet Academy

818 382 2500

www.laballet.com

16422 Ventura Blvd Encino CA 91436

photo credit - Iker Gutierrez

The team from Paul Ferrante

Thomas Jayne

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seen

In Session

PHOTOGRAPHED BY CLIFFORD WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

Kadima Day School held its annual Spring Gala at Stephen S. Wise’s Katz Pavilion.

This event honored Kadima’s educators and Israel’s 70th Independence Day, as well as the school’s community.

No Tent Required The Garland in North Hollywood hosted Brave Trails’ 4th annual Camp Out, benefiting LGBTQ youth. The affair was held in the garden at the hotel’s private outdoor event space, Beverly Park. Executive Chef Larry Greenwood cooked up chic eats, alongside special guest performances.

Attendees included Hayden Byerly, Karamo Brown and Jai Rodriguez.

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Taste Fest

Flavor of LA, put on by the Studio City Chamber of Commerce, was held at the CBS Studio Center backlot. This year the annual food and drink fest benefited LA Kitchen.

Mommy Playdate Millennial Mamas hosted its monthly mom’s night out at The Commons at Calabasas. The evening’s events included cocktails at Greenleaf, paper embossing demos at Paper Source, a private shopping event at The Kingdom and dinner at Toscanova.

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PRO FILES

finance & wealth management Peace of mind—it is something we all strive for in life. There is no better way to feel confident and calm about the future than to know that you and your loved ones are taken care off. That means being smart with money. And there’s no better way of doing that than having a solid team of financial experts to help you make wise investments and sound decisions. The local wealth management professionals on the following pages are a terrific resource for meeting your financial goals.

100 JDM FINANCIAL GROUP

Jeff Munjack 102 WELLS FARGO PRIVATE BANK

Felicia Chang

EDITED BY LAURA WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMEKA JACOBS & MONICA OROZCO

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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finance & wealth management

JDM Financial Group Jeff Munjack, CFP®, MSFS Owner/President Encino 310-479-4122 jdmfinance.com

“JDM’s mission is to help clients make smarter financial decisions, so that limited financial resources, time and energy yield the greatest possible results in their lives.”

S

ince 1999, financial planner and wealth manager Jeffrey Munjack has provided customized financial plans and guided clients through major life decisions. After several years at a global financial services firm, he founded JDM Financial Group in 2002. As a Certified Financial Planner™ with a master’s degree in financial planning (MSFS), Jeff’s expertise in personal finance includes investments, tax strategies, insurance and estate planning.

Why does someone need a financial planner/wealth manager?

“Few people have the time, desire and background to adequately address the complex financial questions households face. These questions intertwine multiple areas of personal finance including tax, investments and pensions. Making smart financial decisions requires expertise in all these areas. A good financial planner not only brings broad personal finance knowledge and planning expertise but also leads a collaboration among a household’s other professional advisors (e.g., CPA and estate planning attorney). In our many years of experience, we have found that adding financial planning expertise improves decision-making across the board.”

What distinguishes JDM Financial Group?

“I built a financial services firm of which I would want to be a client. JDM’s mission— and my mission—is to help clients make smarter financial decisions, so that limited financial resources, time and energy yield the greatest possible results in their lives. In our approach, there are no sales agendas, no proprietary products and no investment commissions. Our focus is on our clients’ best interest and overall well-being. We take a holistic approach and work with multiple generations of a family to ensure that the efforts of one generation leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

Does JDM Financial Group specialize in a particular market niche?

“Most firms, including ours, have expertise in working with Baby Boomers to help them prepare for and navigate retirement. However, many of our best clients are Gen-Xers and forward-thinking Millennials—particularly those who are high-earning professionals or service-sector business owners who want to make smarter financial decisions and plan ahead for their future. Working with these younger professionals requires a broader expertise to address their more complicated

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VENTURA BLVD | JULY 2018

financial needs. We’ve really enjoyed helping them get on the right path.”

How is advising Gen-X or Millennial clients “more complicated?”

“There are two primary reasons. First, at a younger age planning can be more difficult for clients because it is harder for young adults to envision retirement and to determine their lifestyle priorities in advance. Secondly, for younger professionals, multiple financial goals compete for limited resources, and therefore the challenge of setting priorities adds complexity to the process. An emptynest Baby Boomer, on the other hand, has goals that all revolve around the narrower question of how to prepare for a comfortable and secure retirement. Thus planning for younger adults usually requires a more extensive understanding of personal finance as well as insight into a greater number of life cycle issues and stages.”

Why should successful Gen-Xers and Millennials choose JDM over others?

“JDM is a Millennial/Gen X firm. We harbor the same skepticism toward financial services as other young adults do. I know how they want to be treated and want to experience financial advice—client interests first, fees instead of investment commissions and advice that creates a pathway to achieving real-life goals, while reducing stress and anxiety along the way. Unlike their parents, young professionals will have less of a social safety net, and they will need to make smarter financial decisions. Our mission is to help them do just that.”

What is your advice to young adults who are looking for financial advice?

“The character of a professional is always the most important predictor of the quality and trustworthiness of professional advice.

It is also important to investigate the compensation structure of an advisory firm and to inquire whether the firm works exclusively as a fiduciary. If a firm is a fiduciary, an advisor’s recommendations must be guided solely by what is in the client’s best interest. If it does not operate as a fiduciary, an advisor may recommend products or strategies to a client that are merely ‘suitable.’ Some financial professionals set themselves up as both, meaning a client may not know whether a given recommendation is sales-motivated or made in their best interest. Consumers of financial advice should work only with advisors who are fiduciaries.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

JULY 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

101

finance & wealth management

Wells Fargo Private Bank Felicia Chang Senior Wealth Planning Strategist 2829 Townsgate Road, Suite 215 Westlake Village 805-777-8361 Felicia.Chang@wellsfargo.com

“I am passionate about planning, and helping families craft their legacy is the most rewarding aspect of my job.”

A

s a senior wealth planning strategist in the Regional Wealth Planning Group at Wells Fargo Private Bank, Felicia Chang works with clients on estate planning, philanthropy and wealth transfer strategies. Felicia joined Wells Fargo in 2015 after practicing as a trust and estate attorney for nearly 15 years. She and her husband have two children, ages 7 and 4, and enjoy traveling and learning about the world, nature and other cultures.

What would you like readers to know about your firm?

“Regional Wealth Planning at Wells Fargo Private Bank provides our clients with a different experience from any other financial institution. We provide a goals-based wealth planning approach where we work closely with our clients and their existing advisory team to not only develop but also implement a custom-designed wealth plan. The wealth plan results from a thorough understanding of our clients’ personal values, cash flow needs, lifestyle goals and vision for passing their legacy on to family and favored philanthropic causes.”

What are the primary services you offer?

“As part of our comprehensive approach, our wealth planning services address a variety of issues commonly faced by our clients. We review retirement and cash flow planning, estate, wealth transfer and philanthropic planning strategies, and risk management planning. For our business owner clients, we assist with buy-sell planning, business transition planning to identify and assess ownership transition options, and pre-sale planning to analyze strategies to minimize taxes and take into account the various relationships within the family unit.

We are incredibly excited to now offer Family Dynamics services to our clients.

Family Dynamics focuses on the nonfinancial elements of a client’s life. This process helps clients address qualitative issues such as preparing heirs to receive inheritance, determining the right amount to leave for the next generation, and how to approach difficult topics surrounding generational wealth and business management.”

What do you advise your clients in terms of philanthropy?

“Because philanthropy is deeply personal and unique to each person, I encourage our clients to become more intentional and strategic in their philanthropy. Really considering

102

VENTURA BLVD | JULY 2018

what causes they are most passionate about may help a family focus more strategically on their philanthropy, increasing the potential for impact and aligning their giving with their values and vision for the future.”

How do you differentiate yourself from others working in the wealth management industry?

“As a senior wealth planning strategist, I am an objective ally of the client and not a salesperson. We always do right by the client.

Whether they choose to move forward with a recommended strategy, wait, or do something completely different, I am not financially compensated.

However, if a client chooses to move forward with a recommended strategy, I am there to guide them through implementation.

The best part of my job is that I get to leverage my expertise from private practice to collaborate with our clients and their advisors to produce a legacy wealth plan that meaningfully takes into account the clients’ goals, values and circumstances.”

What made you decide to work in this industry?

“I am passionate about planning, and helping families craft their legacy is the most rewarding aspect of my job. I genuinely enjoy getting to know our clients and working with them side-by-side to develop a wealth plan tailored to meet each family’s unique needs.

When I was a practicing attorney in a large law firm, I found it challenging to balance a thriving but demanding career with meeting the needs of my young family. Being a strategist means I can continue my favorite aspects of being an estate planner—honing my tax planning expertise and providing clients with strategic advice—without the pressure of billing clients in six-minute increments.”

Tell us about your team of professionals.

“At Wells Fargo, wealth planning is the foundation of our client relationship and a continuous part of our client experience. Wells Fargo has committed a tremendous amount of resources to make planning available at the local level to better serve our clients. Living in Encino gives me the opportunity to serve the community I live in and provide direct in-person support for our clients. I am one of 18 former attorneys in our California planning team of 27 professionals. Nationally we have one of the largest teams within a wealth management firm in the United States with more than 135 dedicated wealth planners.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

JULY 2018 | VENTURA BLVD

103

AVAILABLE | 4715 ARCOLA AVE

OFFERED AT $3,659,000 5 Bd | 5.5 Ba | 5,512 ± sf | 13,499 ± sf lot

AVAILABLE | 10433 KLING ST

AVAILABLE | 11121 VALLEY SPRING LN

OFFERED AT $2,549,000 4 Bd | 4.5 Ba | 5,085 ± sf | 18,730 ± sf lot

AVAILABLE | 4256 STROHM AVE

AVAILABLE | 4332 FORMAN AVE

OFFERED AT $1,895,000 3 Bd | 3 Ba | 2,610 ± sf | 6,799 ± sf lot

AVAILABLE | 444 S CALIFORNIA ST

OFFERED AT $3,699,000

OFFERED AT $3,199,000

OFFERED AT $1,995,000

5 Bd | 5.5 Ba | 5,400 ± sf | 18,998 ± sf lot

5 Bd | 6 Ba | 5,093 ± sf | 15,246± sf lot

4 Bd | 6 Ba | 3,996 ± sf | 6,586 ± sf lot

AVAILABLE | 12127 IREDELL ST

OFFERED AT $4,950,000

4 Bd | 5 Ba | 4,604 ± sf | 42,248 ± sf lot

CRAIG STRONG

Executive Director, Estates Division Top 1% Nationwide Sold Over $100 Million in 2017 STRONGREALTOR.COM #1 INDIVIDUAL AGENT COMPANYWIDE

Pacific Union International does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01450987 | 818.930.4050

real estate

EXQUISITE STUDIO CITY DESIGN

3932 Vantage Avenue, Studio City Offered at $6,500,000 Represented by Harriet Cameron 818-380-2151 | Harriet@HarrietCameron.com and Andrew Spitz | 818-817-4284 Andrew@AndrewSpitz.com For more information, see page 30.

EXCLUSIVE LUXURY LISTINGS 27580 WINDING WAY | MALIBU | $13,950,000

4626 ENCINO AVENUE | ENCINO | $4,995,000

DENISE SNANOUDJ 818.924.2655 | LIC. # 01101684 CRAIG KNIZEK 818.618.1006 | LIC. # 01377932

CRAIG KNIZEK 818.618.1006 | LIC. # 01377932 NINKEY DALTON 424.400.5921 | LIC. # 01437780

2 PARCELS | 10.8 ACRES

6 BEDS | 10 BATHS | 11,483 SQ. FT. | 37,752 SQ. FT. LOT

19201 ALLANDALE DRIVE | MULHOLLAND PARK | $3,599,000 4816 TOPEKA DRIVE | TARZANA | $3,495,000 6 BEDS | 8 BATHS | 6,549 SQ. FT. | 17,553 SQ. FT. LOT

5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 6,108 SQ. FT. | 86,279 SQ. FT. LOT

EMIL HARTOONIAN 818.924.2806 | LIC. # 01796925 JAMES HARRIS 424.400.5915 | LIC. # 01909801

CRAIG KNIZEK 818.618.1006 | LIC. # 01377932 INGRID SACERIO 323.333.7018 | LIC. # 01905431

23341 OSTRONIC DRIVE | WOODLAND HILLS | $3,295,000

14987 VALLEY VISTA BLVD. | SHERMAN OAKS | $3,199,000

JOHN TASHTCHIAN 424.285.8739 | LIC. # 01453364 EMIL HARTOONIAN 818.924.2806 | LIC. # 01796925

DAN WEISER 424.285.1958 | LIC. # 01757150

6 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 7,400 SQ. FT. | 50,607 SQ. FT. LOT

An international associate of Savills

THE AGENCYRE.COM

5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 5,460 SQ. FT. | 10,578 SQ. FT. LOT

25470 PRADO DE LAS BELLOTAS | CALABASAS | $2,949,000 3960 PRADO DEL MAIZ | CALABASAS | $2,695,000 5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 4,708 SQ. FT. | 21,429 SQ. FT. LOT

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 4,546 SQ. FT. | 11,288 SQ. FT. LOT

EMIL HARTOONIAN 818.924.2806 | LIC. # 01796925 ELLIE HARTOONIAN 818.924.3283 | LIC. # 0194 4092

EMIL HARTOONIAN 818.924.2806 | LIC. # 01796925

4910 BREWSTER DRIVE | TARZANA | $2,299,000

3868 VANALDEN AVENUE | TARZANA | $2,149,000

DANIEL OHANA 818.633.5521 | LIC. # 01941646 CRAIG KNIZEK 818.618.1006 | LIC. # 01377932

INGRID SACERIO 323.333.7018 | LIC. # 01905431

6 BEDS | 7 BATHS | 6,209 SQ. FT. | 30,808 SQ. FT. LOT

5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 6,000 SQ. FT. | 17,899 SQ. FT. LOT

14535 KILLION STREET | SHERMAN OAKS | $1,349,000

3301 N. COLDWATER CANYON AVENUE | STUDIO CITY | $395,000

CRAIG KNIZEK 818.618.1006 | LIC. # 01377932 MICHELLE SCHWARTZ 424.230.3716 | LIC. # 01889141

INGRID SACERIO 323.333.7018 | LIC. # 01905431

5 BEDS | 2.5 BATHS | 3,061 SQ. FT. | 9,436 SQ. FT. LOT

64,033 SQ. FT. LOT

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR | REALTOR ® CalDRE License #01246402 818-933-5866 oren@orenestates.com

16743AshleyOaks.com

16641AdlonRoad.com

16743 Ashley Oaks | Encino

16641 Adlon Road | Encino

$2,495,000

$2,349,000

16540OldhamStreet.com

5019GaviotaAvenue.com

4456GloriaAvenue.com

16540 Oldham Street | Encino

5019 Gaviota Avenue | Encino

4456 Gloria Avenue | Encino

20801SiennaLn.com

16725OakViewDrive.com

3834AlonzoAvenue.com

$1,699,000

20801 Sienna Lane | Porter Ranch $1,635,000

$2,725,000

16725 Oak View Drive | Encino $1,249,000

$1,289,000

3834 Alonzo Avenue | Encino $3,599,000

O re n E s t a t e s . c o m 4327GrimesPlace.com

4327Grimes Place | Encino $1,449,000

4615RubioAvenue.com

4615 Rubio Avenue | Encino $1,399,000

4975 Bilmor Avenue | Tarzana $1,335,000

$1,689,000

$625,000

SOLD

15840 Valley Vista Blvd. | Encino 4143 Hayvenhurst Drive | Encino $1,449,000

$3,995,000

SOLD

SOLD

5325 Oakdale Avenue | Woodland Hills

5401Zelzah Avenue | Encino

SOLD

COMING SOON

4975BilmorAvenue.com

5401ZelzahAvenue.com

16593 Adlon Road | Encino $1,659,300

SOLD

4957 Edgerton Avenue | Encino $2,995,000

THE AGENCYRE.COM

NE W LISTING 6 BEDS | 10 BATHS | 11,483 SQ . F T. | 37,752 SQ . F T. LOT

ENCINO | $ 4,995,000

CRAIG KNIZEK

CKNIZEK@THE AGENCYRE.COM 424.230.3718 LIC. #01377932

NINKEY DALTON

NDALTON@THE AGENCYRE.COM 424.400.5921 LIC. #01437780

An international associate of Savills

4626 ENCINO AVENUE

3

2. 17425 CUMPSTON STREET

3. 17414 MAGNOLIA BLVD.

ENCINO | $ 3,795,000

ENCINO | $ 3, 295,000

ENCINO | $ 3, 249,000 An international associate of Savills

1. 4715 ALONZO AVENUE

THE AGENCYRE.COM

1

exclusive luxury listings

2

JIMMY A. HIRSCH

JHIRSCH@THE AGENCYRE.COM | 424.321.4945 | LIC. #01970186

Single Family Homes with Rooftop Decks in Valley Glen A new community of 63 spacious homes available for sale in Valley Glen. Prices start in the low $700,000s for homes with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, rooftop decks and 1,900+ Sq. Ft. Featuring contemporary urban design in a commuter-friendly location near shopping, dining, and recreation opportunities along the Tujunga Wash Greenway.

www.theglenla.com

Visit Our Sales Office & Model Homes Tue-Sun 10am-6pm / Mon 2-6pm 13103 Victory Blvd, LA 91401 | info@theglenla.com | 818-572-6589 Square footages are approximate only. Details may vary considerably and are subject to change without notice.

Price effective as of date of publication and subject to change without notice. All images and renderings are artist’s conceptions and are not necessarily to scale.

TOLUCA LAKE

10433 Kling St $3,699,000 Exquisite traditional estate.

Smart Home. Enchanting resort-style pool and gardens.

Guest cottage.

pacificunionla.com

10433kling.com Craig Strong 310 439 3225

TOLUCA LAKE

4715 Arcola Ave Craig Strong

WOODLAND HILLS

$3,659,000 310 439 3225

STUDIO CITY

23242 Burbank Blvd Kenneth Bucalo

SHERMAN OAKS

$1,999,000 818 402 8661

ENCINO

4169 Hazeltine Ave $3,795,000

Brand new 6bd, 6.5ba East Coast Cape Cod with media room, pool and spa.

4169hazeltine.com Eric Lieberman 818 535 8755 4149 Farmdale Ave Michael Bergin

$1,699,000 310 600 0715

SHERMAN OAKS

4546 Allott Ave Carla Patterson

4942 Petit Ave Kevin Driscoll

$1,499,000 818 398 0797

SHERMAN OAKS

$1,449,000 310 779 8629

4640 Mary Ellen Ave Alan Taylor

PACIFIC UNION INTERNATIONAL | THE ULTIMATE CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE COMPANY

ENCINO

$1,299,000 818 650 1603

4906 Alonzo Ave Sarah Kotler

$1,099,000 818 599 2870

pacificunionla.com

Pacific Union International does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

3650 ALTA MESA DR STUDIO CITY

3650AltaMesa.pacunion.la

Rodney Walker Mid-Century Modern 3BR + 2BA in Studio City Hills with Incredible Views! A rare opportunity to reside in a renowned Rodney Walker (Case Study Houses #16 #17 & #18) designed home that embodies his philosophy: efficiency without aesthetic compromise. This 1951 split-level floor plan features 3 bedrooms and two full baths. The private master suite opens to an outdoor patio, expansive grassy yard, and a panoramic view of the Valley stretching to the San Gabriels. The entertaining space features handsome fireplace and floor to ceiling windows. You won’t want to miss the morning light and pink sunsets from your patio!

Offered at $1,499,000

ALAN TAYLOR Estates Director | Trust and Probate Top 1% Nationwide

818.650.1603

Info@AlanTaylorRealEstate.com | AlanTaylorRealEstate.com Pacific Union International does not guarantee the accuracy of the informatin provided and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01369255

KevinDriscollHOMES.COM

N EW

LI S TI N G

Extraordinary Seller Representation!

SHERMAN OAKS

O W CR ES IN

IN

ES

CR

O W

14633 Round Valley Drive $2,999,000

ENCINO 4942 Petit Avenue $1,499,000 4942Petit.pacunion.la

SHERMAN OAKS

KEVIN DRISCOLL

13141 Morrison Street $1,749,000 13141morrison.pacunion.la

Top 1% Nationwide Estates Director

818.398.0797

KevinDriscollHomes@gmail.com Pacific Union International does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. CalBRE 01270052

MICHAEL BERGIN |

LUXURY ESTATES DIRECTOR

IN ESCROW

4149 Farmdale Avenue, Studio City Offered at $1,699,000

JUST LISTED

IN ESCROW

11557 Sunshine Terrace, Studio City

5 Beds | 4 Baths | 2,700± Sqft | Carpenter Avenue School District Offered at $1,749,000

4424 Ethel Avenue, Studio City Offered at $1,188,000

IN ESCROW

FOR LEASE 16226 Dickens Street, Encino 5 Beds | 6 Baths | 4,500± Sqft Lot Lanai Road School District Offered at $7,999 per Month

9501 Clybourn Avenue, Sun Valley Horse Property | Two Homes 7 Beds | 5 Baths | 4.7 Acres Offered at $1,989,000

4530 Libbit Avenue, Encino

Offered at $5,500,000 | Representing Buyer

JUST SOLD

4161 Kraft Avenue, Studio City Offered at $2,349,000

3608 Avenida Del Sol, Studio City Offered at $1,099,000

4443 Babcock Avenue, Studio City

Offered at $2,525,000 | Represented Buyer

“ YO U R # 1 N E I G H B O R H O O D E X P E RT ”

MICHAEL BERGIN | 310.600.0715 | MichaelBergin.com | BerginHomes@gmail.com | CalBRE 01845572 FRIEND

FAMILY

NEIGHBOR

REALTOR©

Pacific Union International does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01845572

Just Listed | 4743 Columbus Avenue, Sherman Oaks $1,399,000 3 bedroom, 2 bath, den & home office.

11,300 sq. ft. gated lot with pool & spa www.4743Columbus.com

Just Listed | 3439 Shernoll Place, Sherman Oaks $1,495,000 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, den. Private wooded lot on a quiet street near Mulholland Drive www.3439Shernoll.com

Just Sold | 3525 Vista Haven Road, Sherman Oaks $1,720,000 3 bedroom, 4 bath Mid Century Modern with views (Represented Buyer)

Just Sold | 15075 Rayneta Drive, Sherman Oaks $1,199,000 3 bedroom, 2 bath, family room. City light and canyon views www.15075Rayneta.com

BARRY DANTAGNAN 818.426.8677

barrydantagnan@gmail.com www.barrydantagnan.com

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

Š 2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell BankerŽ is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned By a Subsidiary of NRT 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. If your property is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Cal RE #01020477

ng Co

ratulations

MATTEPSTEIN.COM SOMATT@AOL.COM 818-789-7408

to

Matt Epstein #1 #2 #5

Agent San Fernando Valley Agent Los Angeles Agent Nationwide for

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Follow me on Facebook: MattEpsteinRealty Top one-half of 1 percent of more than 1,250,000 REALTORS® nationwide

Follow me on Twitter: @SoMattEpstein CalBRE# 01121162

With proven results from the market leader, why call anybody else?

3620 Longridge Ave. – SO - $3,999,999- 6Br+9Ba in 7,483 SqFt on a 42,650 SqFt lot- This gorgeous Longridge Estates property is located in an amazing neighborhood in Sherman Oaks, The home features hardwood floors, media room and huge master suite. Lush backyard with mature fruit trees, waterfall pool/spa and BBQ area.

#KeepingItRealEstate

3187 Oakdell Rd.– SC- $3,500,000– 4Br+4Ba in 5,154 SqFt on a 25,570 SqFt Lot- Amazing one story Mid Century ranch in Fryman Estates.

This gated estate in on a street–to-street lot.

Step back into old Hollywood glamour in this 4 bedroom 4 bathroom home. It features black polish granite flooring, four fireplaces, a grand theater room and a master suite with lots of closet space. Lush backyard with canyon views, pool, and Jacuzzi.

3665 Woodhill Canyon Rd – SC$3,499,000- 4Br+4.5Ba in 2,431 SqFt on a 37,832 SqFt Lot – Gated Spanishstyle estate in the Silver Triangle area is situated on over half an acre. This beautiful 4Br/4.5Ba, features grand formal living room, dining room and a huge master suite. Backyard has an enormous grassy area.

3679 Benedict Cyn. Ln. – SO-$3,250,000 – 5Br+5.5Ba in 5,156 SqFt on a 27,169 Lot– This estate home has beautiful mountain, valley and city light views from much of the home. It features high ceilings, open floor plan, formal living room, chef gourmet kitchen and large master suite. The backyard features a pool, spa and grassy area.

3657 Woodhill Canyon Rd.- SC$2,499,000 -4Br+3.5Ba in 3,108 SqFt on a 8,314 SqFt Lot – Beautiful twostory home south of the Blvd. Features one downstairs bedroom, media room and large master suite. Backyard has a phenomenal pool area.

Call for your FREE market analysis! ©2016 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this information. Based on information obtained from the MLS as of (11/1/2016). Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. CalBRE 1317331

Mortgage Capital Partners

Ca lab as as

W oo

an d

Sh er m an

Average Sales Price

$1.56m

$1.23m

$1.54m

$1.04m

$1.65m

$806k 

 31  62  $520  3.6 

 35  55  $528  3.8 

 17  94  $641  4.6 

 15  69  $402  3.9 

 9  106  $433  8.1 

 33  59  $365  3.9 

Total Properties Currently for Sale

111

Number of Properties Sold (January) Average Days on Market (January) Sold Price per Square Foot (January) Month's Supply of Inventory

133

79

58

73

dl

Single Family Homes

En cin o

St ud io Ci ty Ta rz an a

O ak

s

H ill s

Aimee’s Neighborhood Market Update

128

Based on information from California Real Estate Technology Services. Due to MLS reporting methods and allowable reporting policy, this data is only informational and may not be completely accurate. Therefore, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage does not guarantee the data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS's may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

NO TAX RETURNS

3.59% APR* 5/1 ARM PURCHASE LOAN 7/1 and 10/1 ARM also available up to

$4,000,000

loan amount

MORE WAYS TO TRADE UP! ASK ME ABOUT WAYS TO BUY NEW PROPERTY BEFORE SELLING.

Trevor Lane

Aimee Lane

818.971.9380 direct

323.868.8450 direct

VP Mortage Lending

REALTOR®

trevormlane@gmail.com

aimeeglane@gmail.com

Mortgage Capital Partners

NMLS #531594

trevormlane.com

Your Neighbor and Local Jumbo Loan Specialist

CALBRE #01976084

aimeelaneproperties.com

Aimee will help you get where you want to go! As a Realtor® and a licensed attorney, Aimee has excellent listening skills and is always attentive to helping you realize your real estate goals.

*This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. The advertised loan is a 5/1 ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage) with a 30-year fully amortizing term. The initial interest rate is 3.5% for 60 months. The disclosed APR is based on 1 discount point, $1,495 lender fee and $1,500 in additional prepaid finance charges which will be due at closing. For a $1,000,000 loan, there is a 3.59% APR with an initial monthly principal and interest payment of $4,490.45 for the first 60 months.

After the initial period, the variable interest rate and payment will adjust every year and equal the total of the 12-month LIBOR index plus a margin of 2.25%. The maximum periodic change in the interest rate is 2% with a maximum rate increase of 5% above the initial interest rate. There is no prepayment penalty. The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is variable and is subject to increase or decrease, so your payments may increase or decrease each year after the initial period. Disclosure Assumptions: 780 Fico score with a maximum loan-to-value of 65% on a primary residence purchase. The actual interest rate, APR and payment may vary based on the specific terms of the loan selected, verification of information, your credit history, the location and type of property, and other factors as determined by Lenders. Interest rate and APR are variable and subject to increase Not available in all states. Rates are subject to change daily without notice. Payment amounts shown do not include taxes or insurance. If your property is currently listed, this is not intended as a solicitation.

Mortgage Capital Partners, Inc. is a lender under California Real Estate License #01858965. NMLS #239902. © 2017 Mortgage Capital Partners, Inc.

Nobody does it better...

sold

4121 Longridge Ave., Sherman Oaks $7,350,000 www.NewLongridgeEstate.com

sold

5317 Amestoy Ave., Encino $2,510,000 www.AmestoyEstateEncino.com

sold

17437 Palora St., Encino $4,495,000 www.PaloraEstate.com

sold

5421 Amestoy Ave., Encino $2,350,000 www.AmestoyAvenueEstate.com

sold

3833 Hayvenhurst Dr., Encino $3,799,000 www.RoyalOaksColony.com

active

17428 Oak Creek Ct., Encino $2,299,000 www.OakSpringsEstate.com

sold

3550 Ballina Canyon Rd., Encino $1,699,000 www.BallinaCanyon.com

sold

sold

16214 Morrison St., Encino $1,539,660 www.HomeOnMorrison.com

3856 Vista Linda Dr., Encino $1,599,000 www.VistaLindaEstate.com

sold

in escrow

17038 Adlon Rd., Encino $1,729,000 www.AdlonRoad.com

sold

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last word

Dude, Where’s My House?

A childhood home is forever—until it’s not.

WRITTEN BY LISSA KAPSTROM | ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTINE GEORGIADES

Occasionally I like to drive by the house I grew up in. It’s a trip back in time to the ’70s and ’80s when my family lived there.

I sit in my car reliving my past, hoping the neighbors don’t think I’m casing the joint, or worse, distributing takeout menus. It’s moving to visit the house my parents built for our family of seven on a cozy cul-de-sac in a canyon. I was unaware it was down the street from the house where Sharon Tate was murdered until I was in high school, and my date thought it would be funny to drive up to the entrance gate at night and scare me. I thought it would be funny to never go out with him again.

My family home contains my childhood memories: creeping into the shag-carpeted den to watch Johnny Carson when I was supposed to be in bed; screaming at my sister to get off our new princess phone because it was my turn already; learning how to drive my mom’s orange VW bus without taking out our mailbox and my little brother on his Big Wheel. Our house was always open and welcoming. We took

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in strays—animal and human. Kids who weren’t allowed to eat sugar at home would swarm to our house like it was Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Even though my family moved out long ago, the house will forever belong to us. I believed the seven sets of handprints we set in cement in the yard proved that, like a brand. No matter how many inhabitants come and go and how many tacky remodels take place, (Who adds bay windows to a mid-century ranch?) the soul of the house will always be ours.

But that changed during my last visit when I discovered the house was gone. Poof!

All that was there was an empty dirt lot. How could a house that was almost half a century old be gone in an instant? It was surreal.

At first I thought I had made a wrong turn onto a different street. But I saw the house next door that I’d sneak my boyfriend into when I would babysit and realized the truth.

Someone had made a horrible mistake. They tore down our home. Okay, we haven’t lived there in years, but didn’t they see the handprints? Sadly, they were gone too. I guess

cement isn’t as permanent as I thought.

Where will my memories live now? This was the place where I was eternally young.

I don’t think I can ever come back. The probability of seeing a too-big-for-the-lot McMansion thumbing its nose at me like a plus-sized person squeezing into skinny jeans is just too painful. I’ll have to pack up my childhood and cart it to the house where I live now with my husband and son. Those memories will comingle with the ones I’m making with them. We may not have built our house, but we’ve built a home. And after we’ve moved out, I hope my son returns from time to time to relive his past. I just pray the new owners don’t add bay windows to our mid-century ranch. That would kill me.

But even if the house is gone, it won’t really matter, because memories are never homeless when they live in your heart. ■ Lissa Kapstrom is a TV writer (The Fairly Odd Parents, Just Shoot Me). She has no plans to tear down her son’s Sherman Oaks childhood home, where she lives with her husband.

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16055 Meadowcrest Rd, Sherman Oaks. . . . $1,720,000 4156 Hazeltine Ave. Sherman Oaks. . . . . . $1,700,000 13019 Bloomfield St, Studio City. . . . . . . . . . . . $1,665,000 3619 Cananea Dr, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,650,000 15459 Dickens St, Sherman Oaks. . . . . . . . . . $1,630,000 3668 Willowcrest Ave, Studio City. . . . . . $1,599,000 14825 Sutton St, Sherman Oaks. . . . . . . . . . . $1,500,000 Represented Both Buyer & Seller 16067 Valley Wood Rd, Sherman Oaks. . . . $3,500,000 4701 Hayvenhurst Ave, Encino. . . . . . . . . . $3,425,000 3932 Vantage Ave, Studio City. . . . . . . . . . . $2,300,000 16618 Oak View Court, Encino. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,560,000 4195 Crisp Canyon Rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,095,000 12942 Bloomfield St, Studio City. . . . . . . . . . . . In Escrow

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JULY 2018Affiliates | VENTURA 2017 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property.

Information is obtained from various sources and will not be vafified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 01317331

BLVD

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Image: Yohji Yamamoto, Autumn/ Winter 1995, 1995, David Sims.

Chromogenic print. Courtesy of David Sims. © David Sims.

Text and design © 2018 J. Paul Getty Trust

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June 26–October 21, 2018 at the Getty