Ventura Blvd | May 2023

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MAY 2023

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MAY 2023

42

THE SAUCE

BROWSE, MINGLE, SHOP

68

Shopping is where the fun just begins at

FRESH TAKE

The Collective in Woodland Hills.

Longtime Valley restaurateur Frank Leon kicks off Leona’s in Studio City.

50 ON THE WILD SIDE

70

Now that the rains are over, where to see the

WHO WANTS ICE CREAM?

wildflower superbloom this spring.

The artisanal scoop-fest at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in Studio City.

52

34 16 TOMORROW’S HOUSE A creative couple takes an architectural masterpiece to a new level.

28 ON TREND The design trends that are turning heads this year.

34

IN LOVE WITH OAKS An homage to our favorite native tree—plus tips on care.

AND THEN SOME...

58 DESIGN SHOWCASES A curated selection of interior designers and

56

builders in the Valley.

FLUTTERING FEAST Create a butterfly garden with California native plants.

76 REAL ESTATE Spectacular local listings.

72 FARM FRESH LAGUNA A resort combines the beach experience with a canyon vibe and farm-fresh eats.

98 LAST WORD It may be prickly, but it’s lovable.

NEXT CENTURY MODERN A new build artfully incorporates

56

a mid-century vibe.

42

COVER Aristomenis Tsirbas and Luis Casco in Sherman Oaks ; Photographed by Shane O’Donnell.

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Brett D. Karns Designs With a passion for design and sought-after style, Brett D Karns Designs was created. Bringing a piece of his luxury home aesthetic into your space. Whether it be new construction, kitchen remodel, home additions, ADU or exterior design, Brett gives each client the same attention to detail that he has built his impeccable reputation on. As a custom home builder and developer in Los Angeles, he takes pride in establishing a new level of architectural integrity for the city.

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL BECKER

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

VB’s Home & Garden issue might be my favorite one of the

Decades years later, when I became a passionate gardener

year. After all, I’m a homebody with a passion for garden-

in California, I wondered why my mom didn’t do more with

ing. I can trace that back to my childhood, although I didn’t

that garden. Why only boxwood and daffodils? What about

grow up with the kind of lovingly tended garden I have

seasonal blooms like lilac and peony—two faves that I don’t

today. It was a garden of neglect.

even have the option of cultivating here on the West Coast?

I lived with my family on an idyllic farm in southern Maryland until I was 9. The four-story antebellum mansion

My father passed away in March, and I was preparing to

with its pillared front porch, dramatic entry foyer and circu-

travel east for the funeral and to see the farm for the last

lar staircase, was built in 1858. It was situated on 33 acres of

time. (My father lived there until his death.) Not that I’d be

grassy fields with horses, pigs and chickens (until one of our

strolling those beautiful brick pathways again. The garden

St. Bernards ate them). Country life at its best.

was demolished in 2001 when a tornado tore through. The

Between the house and pool was a French-style brick

back third of the house was also whisked away. I called my

garden where the pathways all met in a circular area with a

mom asking how she could have had such a wonderful space

weather-stained iron sundial. My three siblings and I would

and not made it stunning. Mom, always earthy and real,

check to see what time it was as we ran around playing tag.

responded with a hearty laugh, “I was in my 20s with four

The only year-round growth was boxwood hedges that had

young kids! I had my hands full!”

seen better days. But in the spring, yellow daffodils would

The day before my father’s funeral, my siblings and I

pop up everywhere, a harbinger of Easter. The dye kits for

went to the property that we had all abruptly vacated one

our annual egg hunt would surface, and my mom would

night when my mom had finally had enough. I veered off

take my sisters and me shopping for new white patent-

from the crowd and walked through the area where the gar-

leather shoes to wear to church.

den used to be. There was only one sign of what had been

I always loved that garden—the way it created a moment

there: in a far corner, a small patch of tulips in full bloom.

between our house and our main play area, the pool. I loved

Only one patch? I thought tulips propagated. They were all

how the brick felt on my bare feet. I could feel the history.

over the local roadways and in the fields.

People had run these pathways before. Who were they? What

12 |

What about shrubs with changing leaves in the fall?

One conspicuous, bright yellow patch. A reminder of what

happened to them?

was. And what might have been.

Follow me on Instagram @she_sez

Linda Grasso, Editor-in-Chief

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MAY 2023 PERFECT PERCH Mid-century modern new build—from the studs up.

More on page 34.

tomorrow’s house MAKEUP ARTIST LUIS CASCO TAPPED HIS ARTISTIC SKILLS—ALONG WITH THOSE OF AN ACCOMPLISHED INTERIOR DESIGNER—TO BRING OUT A MID-CENTURY HOME’S NATURAL BEAUTY. Written by Chloe King | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

| 17

18 |

Organic materials including wood and stone dominate the first-floor open-air living area.

Far right: A screen print from Andy Warhol’s “Kimiko Powers” series on the landing by the curved staircase. Right: Luis with partner Aristomenis Tsirbas (left) on the staircase.

While Luis Casco may be a

renovates, none of them had felt like the place he

professional makeup artist, he might

wished to reside long-term—until he set his sights on

have been just as creatively fulfilled as an architect. His passion for architecture is evident. Despite a busy career that involves international travel, he has spent much of his

a two-story, mid-century modern tucked up in the hills of Sherman Oaks.

“I knew the instant I walked in that I loved the bones of the house. In particular, the pitch and angle of the ceilings, the floor-to-ceiling windows with their view of the San Fernando Valley, and the original focal-point, mid-century stone fireplace. But what sealed the deal

down time over the years buying and

was when I learned more about the original architect.”

restoring homes—all of which have

That architect was Lucille Bryant Raport, who de-

had architectural integrity.

signed the home in 1958 as one-story. Having started her career as chief assistant to famed architect Richard

As Luis puts it, “I approach houses the same way I

Neutra, Lucille opened her first practice in 1946 in

look at faces when I’m at work. As a canvas. First I step

North Hollywood, where she lived. In 1962 the Valley

back and take it all in, then try to bring life in, starting

Times referred to her as “one of the few women archi-

with foundation, accentuating the good features from

tects who has achieved national recognition.” That fact

the bad. When that’s done and I can see the face, or in

wowed Luis, compelling him to learn all about her work

this case, the house, taking shape, I start to add little

and vision. He was particularly enthralled with the style

pops of color, the process I liken to art and decor.”

of home that she referred to as “tomorrow’s house,”

Although he typically lives in the homes he

with a particular emphasis on the advantages of a San

| 19

“I APPROACH HOUSES THE SAME WAY I LOOK AT FACES WHEN I’M AT WORK. AS A CANVAS. FIRST I STEP BACK AND TAKE IT ALL IN, THEN TRY TO BRING LIFE IN, STARTING WITH FOUNDATION, ACCENTUATING THE GOOD FEATURES FROM THE BAD. WHEN THAT’S DONE AND I CAN SEE THE FACE, OR IN THIS CASE, THE HOUSE, TAKING SHAPE, I START TO ADD LITTLE POPS OF COLOR, THE PROCESS I LIKEN TO ART AND DECOR.” 20 |

| 21

22 |

Fernando Valley lifestyle. In this case, that meant a single-story dwelling with a free flow of space between the kitchen-dining-living area and a wide expanse of floor-to-ceiling glass that makes the home, in Luis’s words, “the sun’s living quarters.”

It was that poetic notion that inspired Luis to restore the home to what he believes was its original intention.

Though he was happy to have the added space of the previous owners’ additions, he aspired to create a new overall cohesion to the structure. He turned to his longtime collaborator, interior designer Gillian Lefkowitz, and together the duo went about conceiving of the best way to preserve Lucille’s original vision while adding a modern twist. “Gillian and I always see eye to eye,” Luis says. “She helps me to make sense of rooms, gives them logic, while making me aware of new materials and products, whether it be the perfect brass kitchen faucet or the layout of the kitchen itself. She also brings a much-needed female perspective to any given project, because God knows I don’t always get it right!”

The project took over a year. The old galley kitchen was fully blown out and expanded to include windows, bringing in additional light. A pool was installed using stone that mirrored the original indoor fireplace, and the bathrooms were completely reimagined with tubs and fixtures from Cocoon bathroom design.

The dramatic structure is the perfect backdrop for Luis’s formidable art collection. A screen print from Andy Warhol’s “Kimiko Powers” series (Powers was a major collector of pop art in the second half of the 20th century) graces the stair landing. A portrait of two boys in a bed by photographer Nan Goldin adorns the master bedroom. A striking trio of large photographs of geishas by Jordi Gómez lines the walls leading to the garage. Just as impressive is the way the art works with the furniture, whether it be the Saarinen dining table surrounded by Philippe Starck swivel dining chairs, “I wanted the TV room to be the most eclectic room in the house, showing my love for film, street art and music,” Luis explains. A vintage Noguchi coffee table is paired with a rug bought in Tangier. On the wall: a Blade Runner sketch by concept designer George Hull; a poster of The Joker by street artist Mel Ramos; and several vintage movie one-sheets.

the Noguchi Akari light fixtures, the Croissant Sofa by Kenneth Cobonpue, or the Luis XIV chairs Luis acquired

| 23

from the Zsa Zsa Gabor estate.

As with all renovations, there were obstacles and frustrations, but when asked if it was worth it, Luis wholeheartedly says yes. He even adds that this could well be his “forever house”—a notion reinforced by the fact that he now shares it with his partner of three years, film director Aristomenis Tsirbas. Luis says they are both completely smitten with the home, “with the icing on the cake being discovering the Valley and falling in love with it, too!” ■

24 |

| 25

C AT E G O R Y

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HISTORY IN THE MAKING Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center celebrates the past while looking to the future.

I

n 1973 a first-class postage stamp was

Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center, which

the hospital’s chief executive. “We’ve

8 cents, and you could buy a new car

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IG: @PROVIDENCECEDARS | 27

On Trend BRIAN FERRICK OF MERIDITH BAER HOME SHARES A BIT ABOUT THE LATEST TRENDS IN DESIGN AND SOME TIPS FOR INCORPORATING THEM INTO YOUR HOME. Interview by Linda Grasso Photographs courtesy of Meridith Baer Home

Curvy sofas in the living room. An oversized photograph book on a stand. Faux sheep in the entry. Trends come and go. So why even pay attention them? Brian Ferrick, design director at the interior design mecca Meridith Baer Home, says if you avoid cliches and extremes, incorporating trends can add freshness and a new take on a traditional look. Here Brian shares five trends that fit that bill.

CURVED HEADBOARDS Curved headboards are a departure from what we did traditionally here at Meridith Baer. We always offered very tall rectangular headboards. They were typically upholstered—either channel-quilted or tufted. But now we are seeing a lot of curved headboards that are little bit shorter, probably about 5 feet. It is a nice change and I like the softness. With the current move toward the California organic modern vibe, the soft shapes and rounded corners work well.

Pro tip: A curved headboard works well in both traditional and contemporary homes. I think for a kids room, two twin beds with curved headboards work beautifully. You could do a cute ticking on them, keeping it playful. For a contemporary primary bedroom, I like the channel quilting that runs horizontally instead of vertically. It has a more of a masculine feel to it.

28 |

PLASTER Plaster has been around for years. With those fauxfinish walls that were popular in the ’80s, they were doing plaster, but it tended to be pigmented with an ocher or greenish hue. The more recent applications have been with more of a neutral finish—paler whites and soft palettes. A tonal version of it. There’s texture to it, giving the play of light and a sheen, which can be quite beautiful. Plaster is a very traditional application, but we’re seeing it in homes that are contemporary in style. So again, it’s not the hard walls you typically see in contemporary homes, but a softer tone.

Pro tip: I love plaster walls in dining rooms with candlelight or a terrific chandelier with a soft white bulb. All these elements can help create the vibe of a romantic dinner.

ARTIFICIAL OLIVE TREE When I first started with Meridith more than a decade ago, we always brought real trees into houses. The

| 29

fiddle-leaf fig was a popular choice, but it was problematic. Often they weren’t properly maintained or getting the proper light, and they’d start to die. So we switched everything over to fake trees. The olive tree is popular right now. I like the delicate shape of the leaf, and for grand homes, you can get tall ones with a wider span, a canopy that spreads out. The look is just a little bit fresher, and a nice way to change it up.

Pro tip: Buy size based on the space. When there is height in a room, you want the tree to be full and tall, not to appear anemic. It needs to have some volume to it. Give the tree some room to breathe visually; you don’t want to have it cramped up and, say, leaning over a sofa. The goal is to create a sense of airiness.

ARCHES We’re seeing arches pop up more in contemporary environments. Not the hard-core contemporary that we’ve been used to the last 12 years or so. It is more of an organic modern vibe. For example, we’re seeing a lot of arches in beautiful plaster curved staircases.

It is a departure from the trend in the last 10 years of the hard-core cantilevered steps with metal framing. Arches create a sense of calm, and that works well in, say, the private quarters going into the bedrooms.

There’s a softness to it. It makes you feel like you’re in the Greek islands. It has that real transportive quality to it, which I think is quite beautiful.

Pro tip: You don’t want just one archway. The motif needs to repeat throughout the house, whether indoors or outdoors, like on a loggia or portico. Doorways in particular need to be consistent.

CALIFORNIA ORGANIC MODERN This style or visual aesthetic is one that infuses a mixture of shapes and textures, natural woods, soft textiles and perhaps a little bit of iron. It’s also the mixture of new and curated objects, having things that are both old and new and blend together well. And integrate a

30 |

collection. In Meridith’s living room, for example, she has antique Venetian glass, finials from iron rail posts, and little pre-Columbian clay dolls. Collections tell a story about who you are. The idea is to create a feeling of bringing the outdoors inside—bringing in wood, soft materials, nature, and mixing it all together.

Pro tip: Use softer upholstery with a more neutral tone. Then layer in great antique pieces, collected items, vintage textiles and maybe a great antique rug.

The fluffy white or ivory bouclé thing is overplayed right now, but in general I still love bouclé. It is a great fabric, and comes in a million colors. I also love linen velvets, or a nice camel leather mixed in with a beautiful cream textured wool and linen fabric. Don’t be afraid to incorporate a pop of color with pillows or a fun chair. A nice splash always works. ■

“THE IDEA HERE IS TO CREATE A FEELING OF BRINGING THE OUTDOORS INSIDE— BRINGING IN WOOD, SOFT MATERIALS, NATURE, AND MIXING IT ALL TOGETHER.”

| 31

C AT E G O R Y

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Sidney Stoll, DO

HELPING HANDS Advanced care delivered with compassion makes all the difference at the Leavey Cancer Center.

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFFREY FITERMAN

A.

cancer diagnosis can be shock-

medical center in the rapidly expanding

Center 30 years ago, Northridge Hospital

ing and frightening. That’s why the

Valley community. In 1955 his dream came

established itself as a hub for world-class

medical team at the Thomas and

true with Northridge Hospital—a single-story,

medicine, guiding patients with cancer and

Dorothy Leavey Cancer Center

49-bed hospital with a one-room emer-

their families through every stage of the

gency department.

journey. The center’s doctors specialize in

offers a helping hand and a friendly smile— coupled with medical expertise and leading

Since then Northridge has grown to a

technology—to patients who receive this news.

394-bed, acute care, not-for-profit hos-

radiation therapy, brachytherapy, the da

The center was established in 1993 to

pital with more than 800 physicians and

Vinci Xi Robotic Surgery System and Trilogy

serve residents of the San Fernando Valley

approximately 2,000 employees. It has

stereotactic radiation therapy—treatments that

and surrounding areas with comprehensive,

earned the Gold Seal of Approval from The

lead to faster, more precise diagnoses, shorter

compassionate, advanced health care in

Joint Commission and is ranked as one of

hospital stays and quicker recoveries.

one convenient setting. It all started in the

America’s 50 Best Hospitals in the United

late 1940s when Frederick Gruneck, MD,

States by Healthgrades.

a retired physician, envisioned a major

32 |

With the addition of the Leavey Cancer

advanced options such as intensity-modulated

The Leavey Cancer Center’s extensive support includes a treatment plan tailored for each patient. “Our patients can expect

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

I N G O O D H E A LT H

to be knowledgeable of their diagnosis and care plan,” says Sidney Stoll, DO, medical director of the Leavey Cancer Center.

“They can be confident that our team will be responsive should they need to reach out to us for any further clarification.”

Dr. Stoll says the doctors and staff take all diagnoses seriously and address them promptly. They offer explanations and answer questions so patients are comfortable moving forward with their medical plan.

While the Leavey Cancer Center provides innovative cancer treatment, it also promotes a calm and comforting atmosphere thanks to the kind and friendly staff. “The goal is to cure the individual and maximize their quality of life,” says Dr. Stoll, who has practiced at Northridge Hospital for five years.

“We incorporate the latest scientific research with state-of-the-art radiation techniques under one roof,” says Afshin Safa, MD, medical director of the Harold & Carole Pump Department of Radiation Oncology at the center and an associate professor of radiation oncology at UCLA. Yet, he says, the team doesn’t stop there.

“We’re also committed to fostering a strong relationship with each patient based on trust, open communication and compassion.

Positive encouragement is critical in this fight.”

The medical team focuses on making patients feel as comfortable as possible during visits and addressing their concerns promptly. “We reinforce a holistic approach

Afshin Safa, MD, FACR

by incorporating the patient’s physical, mental and spiritual needs into conversations,”

exemplary compassion that makes a differ-

Center exemplify these qualities daily in

says Dr. Stoll.

ence to his patients.

their interactions with patients and their

Offering comprehensive oncology services

Taking the level of encouragement even

families—welcome solace at a time when

means supporting patients’ well-being and

further, Leavey Cancer Center provides

helping decrease their stress. “We teach

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| 33

next century modern ACTOR REBECCA BUDIG AND ARCHITECT ARIN ZAROOKIAN JOIN FORCES TO CREATE A HANDSOME HOME IN ENCINO WITH MID-CENTURY MODERN FLAIR. Written by Linda Grasso | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

34 |

When Rebecca Budig, an actor best known for her work on General Hospital, and her husband, a marketing executive, decided it was time to move from their 1,300-square-foot home in Lake Hollywood, they started looking at

daughter could run around and our extended families could stay with some room to breathe,” Rebecca says.

“It had to be one-story, and light was very important to me. I wanted it to be modern but warm.”

While on the house hunt, Rebecca had seen several houses by architect Arin Zarookian. She reached out, and the two met at the property.

“The view was amazing, and it was surrounded by

mid-century modern homes in the

tons of charming trees,” Arin recalls. “The orientation

Valley. In 2019, they purchased one

of the existing building was thoughtfully placed, which

perched high in the hills of Encino.

Built in 1962, it had been remodeled in the ’80s and was, as Rebecca puts it, “a big box” in need of an update.

36 |

“I really wanted to create an open space where our

helped save some of the foundations, but I immediately knew this wasn’t the light remodel they’d hoped for.”

The structure was taken down to the studs, and plans began for a new 4,000-square-foot home. Heeding Rebecca’s desire for light, Arin raised the ceiling throughout the main living area from 8 to 12 feet. He

The long, flat rooflines are paired with clerestory windows, allowing for ample light and a mid-century vibe. Arin did the landscape design himself, sourcing materials at Ramy’s Nursery in Reseda. Above: Rebecca and her daughter, Charlotte.

“THOUGHTFULNESS SHOULD BE APPLIED WHEN SELECTING ARCHITECTURAL FINISHES AND FEATURES, FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES. CHOICES SHOULD HAVE MEANING AND PURPOSE.”

| 37

Rebecca made stone an integral part of the interiors; all of it is from Tristone & Tile. The kitchen features a “waterfall” center island with Essential Grey marble. It also has low upper cabinets, which were popular in the ’50s and ’60s. The cabinetry (and all the woodwork in the home) is by Laforma.

Right: Showstopping Macaubus quartzite on a wall in the primary bathroom.

also included floor-to-ceiling, multi-sliding pocket

masters, and worked for Buff, Straub & Hensman in

doors by Western Window Systems across the back of

his youth. Growing up in LA, we would drive around

the home, allowing for a full 180-degree view, as well

stalking Case Study Homes and many of Lautner’s

as clerestory windows—a hallmark of mid-century

and Neutra’s works.”

moderns—across the facade.

Arin admits that he has an affinity for that ar-

38 |

Yet with Rebecca’s home, he says an MCM structure was not the sole intention. Instead, the overall goal was

chitectural style. “My father was an architect who

to create a family home that incorporated Rebecca’s

studied at USC in the ’50s under many of the MCM

wish list—for light, warmth and texture—and to avoid

the aesthetic of a brand-new shiny home.

“As far as not looking slick, a lot of that has to do with materiality. Other than the roof fascia, there’s no

materials ground the house and give it a bit of an aged vibe,” he says.

One of the keys to a successful design, Arin believes,

stucco on this house. The use of natural, honest, and

is observing the way a client lives. During the plan-

imperfect materials like the warm woods (both siding

ning months, he spent time with Rebecca at the Lake

and walnut casework), the grainy and integrally pig-

Hollywood house “getting a snapshot of their life.

mented brick, the terrazzo-like honed concrete with its

I’d be at the dining table with my laptop showing her

specks of aggregate, the natural stone slabs. All of these

preliminary designs and inspo pictures, and she’d be

| 39

peeking at my screen yelling ‘Love it!’ She’d walk me through the house, showing me the organizational style in her closet and kitchen cabinets and special items that she wanted to include in the design. For example, her grandfather’s beautiful photographs of her and her sisters as children, and a vintage mid-century piano.”

Despite the collaborative harmony, there were a few debates, like the one over the wood ceiling. “I am a fan of wood, but am so picky about the color,” says Rebecca. “Nothing drives me crazier than an orange tinge to a wood, and there are no guarantees after it’s sealed. I was worried it would make me feel claustrophobic. But I decided to take a leap of faith.”

Today the couple points to the wood—used throughout the structure—as one of the things they love most about the home. “The wood is Thermory, and it is distributed by the Royal Plywood Company,” shares Arin.

“It is essentially steamed, altering its cellular structure, making it stronger, dimensionally stable, and rot- and Charlotte with goldendoodle, Woody.

Above: Working with Julie Feehan Design , Rebecca selected the marble dining room table from Croft; the chairs were custom made by Earl Furniture. The chandelier is from Italy.

weather-resistant.”

Both homeowner and architect call their three-year collaboration a rewarding experience with stellar results.

The home, with its thoughtful landscaping and artful fusion of organic materials, catches your eye as you drive by. Once inside, your eye can’t resist darting around; the more you look, the more you see. From the modern features like the pop-up door to the coffee station in the kitchen to the vintage elements like the chandelier in the dining room, everything feels like it belongs.

The key, according to Arin, is restraint.

“Both designers and clients tend to overdo. I think the trick is to be light-handed when designing, so that these elements don’t become distracting. I once heard an architect say, ‘You need to grab a building and shake it until the excess falls off.’ Thoughtfulness should be applied when selecting architectural finishes and features, furniture and accessories. Choices should have meaning and purpose. If it doesn’t make the cut, let it go.” ■

40 |

MIXING OLD & NEW

ARIN SHARES SOME ARTFUL WAYS OF INCORPORATING A MID-CENTURY MODERN VIBE INTO A NEW BUILD. • Design long, single-story, flat rooflines with overlapping planes, paired with the clerestory windows.

• Use a variety of materials—wood, brick, concrete, stone—with intentional placement.

• Foster an indoor/outdoor vibe with large expanses of glass to visually and physically connect the two. Also bring exterior materials inside, further blurring the boundaries.

• Create visual moments, such as framing a thoughtfully landscaped area with strategically placed glass windows and doors that allow peeks at outdoor plantings, or bringing the landscape inside the house as we did with the entry planter that was fitted out by Plants & Spaces.

• Integrate a well-landscaped and accessorized courtyard. | 41

Browse, Mingle, Shop INTERIOR DESIGNER DANIELLE DECKER CHANNELS HER KNOWLEDGE OF AND PASSION FOR ALL THINGS HOME INTO THE COLLECTIVE IN WOODLAND HILLS. Written by Chloe King | Photographed by Cara Harman

The Collective Interior and Garden, both chic and

it literally gave me life. Whereas I had done design

welcoming, features a wide array of vintage and fine

work for family and friends forever, I then realized this

art, custom-designed and reclaimed furniture, as well

is what I need to do as a profession.”

as an eclectic assortment of one-of-a-kind objects.

The notion of creating a brick-and-mortar store

Browsing, one senses that each item was carefully se-

came years later. “As much as I loved my new neigh-

lected by someone with sophisticated taste. And indeed,

borhood, I missed the sense of community I would get

owner Danielle Decker was trained from an early age to

frequenting the shops and markets in my old Westside

spot tasteful items. She is the daughter of an antique

neighborhood.” Danielle approached her husband,

dealer, and she brings that keen eye to what she calls

Carlos Gonzalez, with the idea of opening her own

her “shoppable home.”

store—a place where customers could not only shop but

Danielle started out as a hair and makeup artist for

also mingle in an inviting setting. To her surprise, he

fashion and advertising, then made the pivot to interior

not only agreed but suggested that he come on board

design after moving to the Valley seven years ago. “I

as her partner. Carlos would deal with the “practical

was nine months pregnant with my second child when

stuff,” while Danielle would focus on sourcing objects

we started our full-gut remodel on our new home, and

and designing the overall aesthetic.

| 43

“WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT FOSTERING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY THROUGH THE LOVE OF ART, DESIGN AND COMMERCE.” The duo put their vision into motion when they set eyes on a 2,200-square-foot space at the Valley Country Mart, a U-shaped outdoor mall on Ventura Boulevard, where they would be surrounded by other mostly independent retail establishments. It was love at first sight.

After renovating the space to create a modern loft-like feel with exposed ceilings and unpolished concrete floors, The Collective opened last November.

From every angle in the bright and airy space, you’re met with a visual cornucopia. Each object carries its own unique history, whether it be an 18th-century oil painting, a 1930s Turkish tribal rug or a mid-centuryinspired light fixture designed by Danielle herself. The store showcases numerous items with heft. Examples include a chunky antique artist table—once the centerpiece of a Santa Barbara art studio—and a custommade 15-foot teak and marble dining table with a modern design.

Despite the scope and scale of the store, Danielle insists that “it’s not just about the products; it’s about the experience. We’re passionate about fostering a sense of community through the love of art, design and commerce. Each object here has been thoughtfully curated to help you embellish a home that feels like a true reflection of your personality and style.” ■

44 |

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the great outdoors FROM WHISPERINGS OF A WILDFLOWER SUPERBLOOM TO AN ODE TO OUR GLORIOUS OAKS, COME ALONG AS WE STEP OUTSIDE.

T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S

On The Wild Side WHERE TO SEE THE WILDFLOWER SUPERBLOOM THIS SPRING. With all the rain this year, SoCal is expected to have one of its best wildflower blooms in ages—a “superbloom,” as they say. And the flowers are likely to last longer than usual, possibly even into early summer.

(Blossoms typically begin to decline in May.) Before you head out, check the Theodore Payne Wild Flower Hotline at (818-768-1802, ext. 7). The weekly recorded reports, narrated by Emmy Award-winning actor Joe Spano, suggest the best locations for spring

Linden H. Chandler Preserve Part of the 1,400-acre Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, the Chandler Preserve has 30 miles of trails weaving through hills, canyons and rock outcrops. Keep your eye out for the endangered Palos Verdes blue butterfly.

Palos Verdes Dr. North and Dapple Gray Lane, Rolling Hills Estates; pvplc.org/conserved-lands

viewing in Southern and Central California.

Keep a few tips in mind. The bloom usually happens

50 |

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

from south to north, so check out the southernmost

The reserve is famous for its extensive display of golden

spots first. Once there’s a bloom happening near San

orange poppies. Explore 8 miles of trails, and be sure

Diego, it typically then rolls up the state.

to visit the Jane S. Pinheiro Interpretive Center, which

Also, poppies open up during midmorning and curl

is open through Mother’s Day. It has wildflower and

back up during late afternoon/early evening and when

wildlife exhibits, paintings and a gift shop. Check out

the temperature starts to drop. So midday visits typi-

the live “poppy cam” on the website. Parking, $10;

cally work best. ■

15101 Lancaster Rd., Antelope Valley; parks.ca.gov

Point Mugu State Park This park is just up the coast from Malibu, 15 miles below Oxnard, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. Explore more than 70 miles of hiking trails (dogs are not allowed on trails). The park has 5 miles of ocean shoreline, so you can take a dip before heading home. Parking, $12. 9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu; parks.ca.gov

Paramount Ranch Walk the trails at Paramount Pictures’ old “movie ranch,” the setting for many films and TV shows. In 1980, the National Park Service revitalized a portion of the ranch and today you can hike it. 2903 Cornell Rd., Agoura Hills; for map of the best trails to spot wildflowers, go to alltrails.com.

Eaton Canyon Natural Area and Nature Center This 198-acre natural preserve at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains has picnic areas, expansive hiking and equestrian trails, and wildflowers. The on-site nature center offers animal presentations, bird walks and nature walks. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena; parks.lacounty.gov

Malibu Bluffs Open Space 84 acres with ocean views, trails and wildlife viewing. Some trails lead from the bluffs downhill to Malibu Road with access to the beach. Site is adjacent to Malibu Bluffs Park, which has baseball diamonds, restrooms and a children’s play structure. 24250 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu; nps.gov

Wild Flower Hill This site—essentially a 0.75-mile trail—is part of the Theodore Payne Foundation. If you spot a wildflower that you can’t identify, take a photo, and then ask one of the nursery sales associates for help in identifying it. Retail nursery, demonstration garden, picnic area and seed and bookstore. 10459 Tuxford St., Sun Valley; theodorepayne.org

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch This is one of the most popular spots in SoCal. A stunning display of 55 acres of blooming ranunculus flowers.

Timed-entry tickets between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. are available only online. $23 adults, $12 for ages 3 to 10 and free for children under 3. Other kiddie activities on-site, so plan for a full day of family fun. 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad; theflowerfields.com

| 51

T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S

In Love With Oaks AN HOMAGE TO THE NATIVE TREES THAT NURTURE LIFE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. Written by Robert Earle Howells

California oak trees live in my heart and soul. I miss

perseverance—qualities I want to cultivate in myself,”

them when I travel, and they signify “home” when

says Alison. The world has 500 species of oaks, she

I return. They dazzle me, enchant me, and make me

points out, but only our SoCal versions are adapted

think I’m a photographer, because simply aiming a

to the rigors of a Mediterranean climate. A beast that

camera in their general direction yields a masterpiece

spreads its gnarled branches to form a 100-foot canopy

every time. (Which is why my phone is full of “oak

manages to thrive despite our long periods of drought.

porn.”) How often do I stop the car to admire a mag-

Of the five species native to the LA basin, two are

nificent oak tree? More than my wife cares to count.

predominant in the Valley and surrounding hills: coast

Happily, opportunities to pull over and go gaga over

live oak and valley oak. They’re fairly easy to distin-

an oak tree are ubiquitous all up and down the hills

guish: Valley oaks are deciduous; coast live oaks are

and valleys of California west of the Sierra. Every other

evergreen. Fun fact: “Roble,” (as in Paso Robles), is

street or development carries some version of “oak” in

another Spanish word for oak, and refers to the valley

its name. Heck, the very word “Encino” is Spanish for

oak; encinos are coast live oaks.

oak. “Thousand Oaks” is English for “probably more

“Both species are very well suited to our terrible

like a million oaks.” Oak trees line our streets, cluster

soil,” Alison says. “They’ll practically grow out of solid

along our hiking trails, shade our parks—and they are

granite.” Meaning you don’t need a green thumb or a

so beautiful.

magic touch to grow one.

But it’s more than beauty and ubiquity that endears

Like all of my fellow zealots, Alison extols the value

me to California oaks. There’s a lot going on with these

of habitat. “I think of them as community centers

majestic specimens. What exactly? I decided to seek out

for wildlife. For birds you might not even expect, like

some fellow oak zealots to learn more and to help me

hummingbirds and birds of prey. Insects and microbial

articulate our mutual obsession.

life. Critters living in the leaf litter. Habitat may be the biggest benefit they provide.”

THE ARBORIST Alison Lancaster is a consulting arborist whose right

MR. RANGER

forearm is tattooed with oak leaves and a cluster of

As a restoration ecologist, Joey Algiers is devoted to

acorns. She’s also the resident oak expert at Theodore

preserving and restoring oaks and their habitat in the

Payne Foundation, the native-plant mecca in Sun

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. He

Valley, where she conducts tree walks and Ask An

has a personal affinity for oaks (“my favorite tree”),

Arborist sessions.

and also a deep concern. “We lost over 10,000 coast

“They symbolize resilience, adaptability,

52 |

live oak trees in the drought years (2012–18) before

| 53

the Woolsey Fire,” says Joey, “so you can imagine how

WHERE THE TREES ARE

A FEW LOCAL PLACES WHERE YOU CAN ENJOY BEAUTIFUL OAK TREES Orcutt Ranch Horticultural Center. Several gigantic oaks

stressed the trees were after the fire. We lost thousands more.” (The park service has since planted more than 7,000 new oaks.) He also cites the arrival of tree-boring insects and the growing intensity of fires—both related to climate change—as major threats. “Oak trees are

in this West Hill enclave, including one estimated to be 700

fire-resilient,” he says. “They do a good job of bounc-

years old.

ing back and even trapping embers. But if you subject

Topanga State Park. All around the headquarters at Trippet Ranch and on virtually every hiking trail.

Malibu Creek State Park. Many are silhouetted against

them too often to fire, they will suffer, especially with droughts becoming more extreme and common.”

The ranger easily switches from concern to admira-

dramatic mountain backdrops. Amazing density in the Tapia

tion. “They’re beautiful and crazy trees. The Santa

Park Day Use Area just south of the main park entrance.

Monicas are predominantly a shrub landscape, so these

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. You

majestic trees really stand out.” And, of course, provide

don’t have to venture far to see stellar oaks in Cheeseboro

fecund habitat. “They have this incredible rich canopy

Canyon or Paramount Ranch.

and amazing root structures so deep they find ground-

East Valley Parks. Franklin Canyon, Fryman Canyon,

water. So they make incredible habitat. Acorn wood-

and Coldwater Canyon (home of TreePeople) Parks all have

peckers love them; you’ll see their granaries that look

beautiful oaks.

like they’ve been sprayed with machine gun fire. Those are acorn stashes.”

Humans benefit too. “The first thing is shade, so

54 |

important for human communities. Plus they provide clean air, absorb carbon, and whether we realize it or not, they do something for us on a therapeutic level.”

TREEPERSON Few people have personally planted more oak trees

CARE AND FEEDING

TIPS FROM OUR EXPERTS

Planting. A small plant, e.g., 5 gallons, will have fewer

than Andy Lipkis, founder of TreePeople, the Coldwater

root issues from having been in a container. Dig your hole

Canyon-based nonprofit that has for 50 years spear-

twice the size of the plant, and then pack it tight. Don’t add

headed community efforts to plant and care for trees.

amendment. Give it 2 to 5 gallons of water, slowly, then

“They are stunning,” says the veteran activist

water biweekly for the next year.

and ecologist. “They are also the model of what we

Watering. Oaks are drought-tolerant, so mature trees

need to biomimic. For example, I’ve recently put in a

don’t need much water. Never allow sprinklers to spray the

1,000-gallon cistern at my home. It and oak trees go

trunk. Don’t place drip tubing within 10 feet of a mature tree

hand in hand, because a large oak can hold 120,000

trunk. Don’t change your watering regimen without con-

gallons of water in its root system after a storm.”

sulting an arborist. For example, if you’re removing a lawn,

That large tree’s root zone is reaching well beyond its canopy diameter, and is all the while dropping

don’t just stop watering the tree.

Pruning. “Oak trees don’t need to be pruned for their own

leaves—“making mulch and making mulch and mak-

sake,” says Alison Lancaster. If possible, just don’t prune.

ing mulch. It’s creating 5 to 6 feet of soil—extraordi-

Also, sprouts and shoots coming off branches and trunks are

nary habitat for creatures from microscopic animals to

beneficial. Leave them alone. If there’s a safety issue or you

squirrels and snakes.”

suspect a branch is diseased, contact a consulting arbor-

That soil also cleans contaminants as water flows through it. “That oak tree is a wastewater treatment

ist. “We’ll give you an independent recommendation,” says Alison. “Then a pruning company can do the work.”

plant. It’s a sponge and it’s a tank. It’s a flood-control system. And it provides cooling, air-conditioning, and air filtration.”

Oak trees are theoretically protected in LA County, which prohibits removing or damaging them without a permit. But the ordinance is difficult to enforce, and tree-deaf folks seem to find ways around it.

When that happens, we lose the services it provides.

one word. When we separate trees from people, we get in trouble.”

My conversations with fellow tree people were focused on the present day, but I’m well aware of how our native predecessors valued oaks. In particular, they

“Whoever is removing that tree is not replacing those

relied on the food value of acorns, which they ground

systems,” Lipkis contends. “That’s not in the calcula-

into a mush to bake bread. But Andy Lipkis told me

tion. I see the tree as living infrastructure that is critical

about another native practice: that Native Americans

for life. You have to replace it with bureaucracy, with

when sick would simply sit and lean against a tree.

a flood-control system, a water-supply system, fire

That strikes me as a wonderful practice, whether I’m

suppression, pollution control. We believe in technol-

ill or healthy. Oak trees have so much life, energy,

ogy, but not in ourselves and our nature. That leaves us

presence, inherent wisdom. I plan to sit under them as

more and more vulnerable. This is why TreePeople is

often as I can. ■

| 55

T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S

Fluttering Feast HOW TO CREATE A BUTTERFLY GARDEN WITH CALIFORNIA NATIVES. Written by Dakota Kim

Few sights are more idyllic than watching butterflies

allows a variety of sheltering spaces where butterflies

attracting these important pollinators to your garden

can take cover. Include small plants like wildflow-

can be challenging. Erin Johnson, director of public

ers, medium-sized shrubs like native sage, small trees

programs at Theodore Payne Foundation, says one key

like desert willows, and larger ones like coast live oak.

is to use plants that create a butterfly-friendly habitat

Importantly, plan for various nectar-offering blooms

and arrange them properly.

throughout the year, since different butterflies migrate

First thing to do, Erin says, is sketch out a simple

in different seasons.

plan, grouping wildflowers together and varying the

Provide sunny areas where butterflies can bask in the

height of your flora. Butterflies like to harvest nec-

light and set out a puddling dish where they can receive

tar quickly and easily, so plant your seeds or starts in

salts and minerals that they can’t get from plants. That

3-by-3-foot blocks. Rather than buying a wildflower

can be as simple as a dish or saucer filled with wet sand

seed mix, select, say, native California poppies for one

and soil.

patch and California fuchsia for another.

“It’s not a deal breaker if you have other aesthetic

56 |

Secondly, cultivate a variety of different heights. This

alight on a flower patch, happily drinking nectar. But

Lastly, consider letting your trees’ leaves form a blanket on the ground for our majestic western

goals, but grouping your flowers is going to make it

monarchs, because they, along with other moths and

much easier and more attractive for pollinators to visit

butterflies, conduct their vital chrysalis stage in the leaf

your site,” Erin shares.

litter below your trees. ■

BUTTERFLIES CAN’T RESIST THESE 5 NATIVES Milkweed. Milkweed is the only food source for monarch caterpillars.

Avoid tropical milkweed and go for kotolo, narrow leaf, or showy varieties. “If you go to Home Depot, you’ll likely find a tropical milkweed that is harmful to western monarchs because it stays evergreen all year, failing to offer them the cue to complete their migration to the coast, where they

California buckwheat

overwinter,” Erin says. Because native milkweed loses leaves and looks scraggly in winter, she suggests tucking milkweed behind prettier plants and shrubs like native sage.

Baja California Senna. Butterflies love this small shrub, which is a host plant for the cloudless sulphur butterfly. The small yellow butterfly is drawn to this hearty shrub’s small, fragrant yellow blossoms and dark green leaves outlined in purple. Growing to 4 by 4 feet, it flowers from March to November. Low water requirement, and seeds can be planted in the ground or in pots.

California Fuchsia. This easy-to-grow beauty blooms with vibrant red trumpet-shaped blooms throughout summer and fall. It attracts sphinx moths and hummingbirds and provides erosion control for your garden.

Fairly low-maintenance, reseeds easily and tolerates heavy soils. Cut it back once a year after it blooms, usually in December.

Manzanita. Manzanita, which translates to “little apple,” is known for its prominent reddish bark. Plant this shrub with white or pink flowers for winter blooms, keeping pollinators in your garden year-round. Blooms from January to April, and is a perfect midsize shrub for both coastal and inland gardens. Low-maintenance and very drought-tolerant.

California Buckwheat. This 4-foot shrub attracts many pollinators including hairstreak and blue butterflies. It also provides erosion control and grows well on the coast and inland. This keystone species for sagebrush scrub ecosystems provides butterflies with flowers (comes in several colors) from June to October, and petals persist even in the dead of summer.

Get a variety that grows low and wide to use as ground cover.

Manzanita

California fuchsia

Cloudless sulphur caterpillar

| 57

DESIGN

SHOWCASES 60

ROB DIAZ DESIGN ROB DIAZ

62

LA TECHS RUSSELL GASKAMP & CALVIN LARSEN

64

LA FURNITURE STORE ALAN SORIA

EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

| 59

DESIGN SHOWCASES

ROB DIAZ DESIGN

Rob Diaz

4935 Agnes Ave., Valley Village 310-487-4407 robmdiaz@gmail.com robdiazdesign.com @robdiazdesignlosangeles

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

Two A-frames sit above a large center mass,

Rob Diaz Design has been a custom home

giving way to upper-floor deck gardens. The

designer and builder in Studio City since

sequential progression of spaces has been

2009. We focus on custom home building and

mindfully crafted using texture, light and the

full design service.

unexpected. The project goal was to use timeless materials—some old, mixed with a

HOW DO YOU ADD A SENSE OF SERENITY

contemporary flair. Roof tiles were brought in

TO A BACKYARD OR GARDEN?

from France and exterior stone from Belgium,

I do not use concrete very often. Instead I

while the clean Santa Barbara plaster walls

use natural limestone, old sinks and troughs,

give this a modern take on an old European

fireplaces and accents to add a natural tone.

home. Custom louvered garage doors, old

Smooth gravel is nice, plus a lot of vegetation.

bluestone farm sinks, custom entry gates and old oak shutters added to our vision.

Many modern amenities were thought of

WHAT ARE YOUR CLIENTS ASKING FOR MOST THESE DAYS?

with two kitchens. We included an outdoor

Service kitchens and private dens or sepa-

soaking tub off the primary shower, a full

rated living rooms.

guest house off the pool and a separate living room/den with a private courtyard.

The home was built to age well with the

WHAT UNEXPECTED FEATURES DO YOU LIKE TO ADD TO BATHROOMS?

use of 100-year-old tile on the roof, natu-

I love large skylights over showers, exterior

ral limestone hardscaping, copper gutters,

gardens off bathrooms and outdoor tubs.

Bokara stone walls and old oak wood accents around the exterior of the home.

WHAT CONSIDERATIONS DO YOU MAKE

Passion, love of the craft and hard work are

FOR YOUR CLIENTS’ PETS?

exemplified in this project.

We will do anything for our furry friends.

Mudrooms with stone floors and even low-

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU HELP A HOME

lying pet showers can be done.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LA LIGHT

REFLECT ITS SETTING? It always starts with the site location. This tells

WHAT ICONIC CALIFORNIA ITEM SHOULD

us what to highlight and where to privatize.

EVERY HOUSE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF?

Window and door schedules let us do this

Light. It is sunny here, so find your sunlight

along with central building shapes and exte-

angles. Also window and door treatments are

rior walls.

a must, and Everhem is one of our go-tos.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

| 61

DESIGN SHOWCASES

LA TECHS

Russell Gaskamp & Calvin Larsen Sherman Oaks 310-919-5452 hello@latechs.com latechs.com

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST IMPACT-

Our featured project is a testament to the art of

FUL WAYS THAT HOME AUTOMATION

blending technology and personalization. We

MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN HOW WE LIVE?

created an “automation” environment where

Home automation has the power to trans-

smart systems work seamlessly in the back-

form our daily lives, enhancing the time we

ground, making everyday life easier and more

spend at home. From the relaxing experi-

enjoyable for the homeowners. The project

ence of listening to music in any room to the

included a cozy home theater, user-friendly

peace of mind provided by a reliable security

motorized shades and a streamlined security

system, home automation elevates your living

system that puts the homeowner’s mind at ease.

experience at every level.

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

I CAN ONLY UPDATE ONE ROOM IN MY

The primary service we provide is an inte-

HOME; WHICH ROOM SHOULD IT BE?

grated home technology system—different

If you can only update one room, prioritize the

technologies interwoven, controlled from a

room you use most for entertainment. Investing

unified dashboard and tailored to the user’s

in home automation for this space will bring

preferences. We offer customized services to

the most significant improvements to your daily

make your home smarter and more attuned

comfort and convenience, creating a welcom-

to your lifestyle. From designing infrastructure

ing environment for you and your loved ones.

wiring for seamless connectivity to integrating

We can tailor your entertainment system to pro-

multiple devices into a single, user-friendly con-

vide the exact experience you want.

trol system, we’re here to help you make your home a haven of comfort and convenience.

WHAT ARE SOME FAVORITE FEATURES

WHAT NEW TECHNOLOGY DO YOU

However an outdoor space is used—enter-

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LA TECHS; HEADSHOT BY TAMEKA JACOBS

TO INCLUDE IN OUTDOOR ROOMS? INCLUDE IN A HOME OFFICE?

taining, relaxing, spending time with family,

A dedicated videoconferencing system. As

working out, meditation—an audio system

everyone has learned over the last several

can enhance that experience. We love incor-

years, videoconferencing can cause head-

porating weather-resistant entertainment

aches, especially when operated from a

systems that bring the joy of music and video

laptop—WiFi lags, awkward camera angles,

to your outdoor spaces. These elements come

poor audio quality, juggling different win-

together to create a delightful extension of

dows and applications, the list goes on. A

your living space. There are so many different

dedicated videoconferencing system with

ways an audio system can be implemented;

high-quality audio and video components

it’s easily tailored to the specific needs of

can solve all of those issues.

each homeowner.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

| 63

DESIGN SHOWCASES

LA FURNITURE STORE Alan Soria, Design Director 4900 Triggs St., Los Angeles | 323-215-1645 22223 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills | 818-877-4254 sales@lafurniturestore.com | lafurniturestore.com

IMAGES BY ALAN SORIA

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED FURNITURE. Introducing the epitome of modern elegance: the curved channel sofa in white. This stunning piece of furniture combines the soft curves of a classic sectional with the contemporary edge of channel tufting. The plush white upholstery creates a crisp, clean look that will elevate any living space to new heights of sophistication.

Indulge in the ultimate dining experience with the Italian extendable table inspired by the surface of the moon. Impeccably designed and crafted in Italy, this table is a masterpiece that combines functionality with timeless beauty. The high-pressure laminate surface boasts durability, scratch resistance and low maintenance, ensuring it will remain a stunning centerpiece for years to come.

Crafted with the highest standards of quality and attention to detail, the Cambria modern cognac leather sectional sofa is a true investment piece sure to become a beloved part of your home for years to come. Experience the luxury and comfort of this exceptional sectional sofa and elevate your living space to new heights of style and sophistication.

WHAT MAKES YOUR PRODUCTS UNIQUE? LA Furniture sources the highest-quality items from all over the world. The modern, midcentury and contemporary styles are unlike any other, and we frequently grow our stock.

With more than 2,000 in-stock pieces, we have nearly unlimited options at your fingertips. Our knowledgeable design associates are intimately familiar with all of our products—and most have backgrounds in interior design.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS. We are a family-run business—founded 20 years ago—that sells contemporary, modern, classic Italian and transitional-style furniture SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

from three locations in California, one in Florida, a New York showroom and an e-commerce site. We pride ourselves on our highquality, affordable luxury inventory, customer service and competitive pricing.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CUSTOMERS. LA Furniture services many designers, decorators, stagers and influencers, as they find our products to be competitively priced and of uncompromised quality. Whether shopping online, in one of our stores or over the phone, we know you will appreciate our customer experience no matter your budget. Our in-store and corporate staff are committed to making every customer happy and can help you fill your needs while keeping your style, taste and budget in mind.

HOW DO YOU HELP CUSTOMERS MAKE GOOD CHOICES? We have a team of professional designers instore to help you with anything from remodeling to moving. Our team members pride themselves on honesty and will do their best to steer you in the right direction for your purchase.

HOW CAN YOU OFFER SUCH AN AMAZING SELECTION AND LOW PRICES? What differentiates LA Furniture is our relationship with the brands we represent. We stock our own merchandise, not third-party stock. Due to the sheer volume of orders we process, we negotiate the best prices available on the market and pass this discount on to our customers.

WHAT IS SHOP THE LOOK? Room ideas designed and curated by our own interior designers—helping you create impressive, decorated spaces in your home without paying the designer price. | 65

wood & water Kitchen & Bar serving seasonal New American Cuisine with multicultural influences and flavors. Featuring the freshest seafood, sustainable protein, and farm-to-fork produce.

13359 Ventura Blvd Sherman Oaks, CA 818-855-1661 Woodandwaterla.com

66 |

THE SAUCE

All Dressed Up Classic sushi with a Peruvian fusion twist. More on the next page.

THE SAUCE

Fresh Take HE’S DONE ITALIAN, MEXICAN, AND GASTROPUB FARE. NOW LONGTIME VALLEY RESTAURATEUR FRANK LEON GOES FOR SUSHI WITH LEONA’S. Written by Jeffrey Saad

Sushi: rice and raw fish. Simple, right? Not at all.

As a young chef in San Francisco, I had someone tell me, “Cook me a perfectly juicy chicken with golden

the bouquet and thus some of the flavor, just as with a glass of white wine.

crispy skin and then show me all your fancy stuff.”

The waiter advised us not to use soy sauce, as ev-

That always stuck with me. One needs to perfect the

erything was properly dressed, based on the fish being

basics first and then build upon that. Sushi is one of the

presented. (The idea is to avoid piling on dressings that

greatest examples—and Leona’s nails it.

hijack flavor.) He was right. The yellowtail and albacore

Leona’s, the newest concept by serial Studio City

had the perfect dollop of yuzu kosho—a pasty Japanese

restaurateur Frank Leon, takes over the large space

condiment made from fresh chiles, salt and the citrus

that housed two of his other eateries: Ceremony and La

fruit yuzu.

Loggia. He ran the latter for 33 years.

“I was bored and really wanted to do something differ-

Another thoughtful, presentation: the uni (sea urchin), a creamy, fresh bite of the ocean. It was wrapped

ent,” Frank says. “We are doing Nikkei cuisine, basically

in a small band of nori and topped with the perfect

Peruvian-Japanese fusion. It is similar to what Nobu does.

amount of wasabi, cleansing the palate and balancing

A lot of people don’t realize this, but Nobu was raised in

the richness.

Peru. So things like using jalapeño with yellowtail tuna,

Patrons of La Loggia and Ceremony will hardly rec-

offering ceviche—that’s the kind of twist I’m talking

ognize the rejiggered space, now separated into three

about and what you’ll experience at Leona’s.”

distinct, adjoining areas with a single entrance. The din-

When it came to helming the sushi bar, Frank tapped

ing room of La Loggia has been reimagined as an eatery

an expert. Shigenori Fujimoto hails from acclaimed

with a large sushi bar, high-backed, upholstered booths

sushi eateries Matsuhisa and Asanebo—and it shows on

along the walls, and a frontage of retractable windows.

every plate.

The middle space, previously La Loggia’s patio, is now a

Our sushi assortment came out looking clean and

marble-floored lounge with a generous bar and fire-

fresh. I could tell immediately that they knew what they

place. The former Ceremony space is now fashioned as

were doing by how the fish was cut: thin and against

a moody speakeasy with low lighting and high ceilings.

the grain and draping delicately over the rice like a silk

Dark emerald-hued walls, oversized chandeliers, and

scarf. Upon the first bite, I was not overwhelmed by

wooden floors round out the dramatic vibe.

wasabi, an all too common experience with sushi. The rice was not too warm nor too cold. It was room temperature—just right. It held together and had a mild

68 |

its subtle, fresh perfume. When it is too cold, you lose

Frank’s partner in Leona’s is Evan Ross, Diana Ross’s son, who is married to the singer Ashlee Simpson.

“I’ve been friends with the Simpson family for a long

sweetness and clean flavor. Temperature also came into

time,” explains Frank. “Way back from when Ashlee

play with the fish. It was just warm enough to release

and her sister Jessica and her mom were living in

Sherman Oaks, and the girls were going out on casting

Korubuta pork chop and filet mignon. For hard-core La

calls for pilot season. Evan and I became friends, and

Loggia fans, they’ve put a version of the crowd-pleas-

we felt like we could create something together.”

ing pasta carbonara on the menu—albeit made with

Frank operates the business side of Leona’s. Evan, an actor and musician, is in charge of “the vibe and bringing in new clientele.”

Frank says they’ve tried to cover all aspects of the

udon noodles.

From what to order to where to sit, Leona’s offers a plethora of choices. My best advice: Dine in whichever room strikes your fancy, but stay basic with the food.

dining experience, including catering to patrons who

Stick to the sushi. In a town with an abundance of

don’t care for sushi. The menu offers a large selection

strong sushi options, Leona’s stands tall. ■

of alternatives, such as baked branzino, Jidori chicken,

| 69

Who Wants Ice Cream?

ARTISANAL SCOOP SHOP VAN LEEUWEN ICE CREAM HOPES TO DELIGHT KIDS AND ADULTS WITH THEIR NEW OUTPOST IN STUDIO CITY. Written by Chelsee Lowe

Van Leeuwen began like so many eateries did in the aughts—as a food truck, cute and yellow and roaming the streets of New York hawking artisanal scoops to fans. That was in 2008. Their first brick-and-mortar location debuted in Brooklyn in 2010, and the brand has been proliferating across the country ever since. Their new location at The Shops at Sportsmen’s Lodge is a happy place to be sure, done up in a brilliant sunburst colors. My kids light up like the sun too, once they’re through the doors.

Guests are welcome to sample different flavors before making their final choice, and that’s a part of every Van Leeuwen visit my kids love. The standard flavors are certainly available—cookies and cream, mint chip and vanilla bean—but it is Van Leeuwen’s more

70 |

unique offerings that draw a crowd. Top sellers include

deliciously cold, in scoop form, and eaten with a spoon.

Honeycomb (made with caramel candy from Australia),

When it comes to vegan choices, most ice cream

Sicilian pistachio (with pistachios procured from Italy)

shops offer one sad fruity sorbet. Not Van Leeuwen.

and Earl Grey Tea (flavored by Rishi Tea, with leaves

Around a dozen wildly fun vegan choices are typically

from China’s Yunnan Province).

on the menu, made with alternatives like cashew or

My toddler will not stray from a scoop of chocolate

oat milk and spiked with coconut cream. On our visit,

ice cream with sprinkles, no matter what she samples.

noteworthy vegan flavors included Churros and Fudge

But my 10-year-old eagerly tries anything. She got par-

and Strawberry Shortcake. It’s a good bet you’ll love

ticularly adventurous on our last visit, tasting limited-

the vegan version of Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie,

time flavor Malted Milkshake and Fries, whose ingredi-

whether you’re dairy-intolerant or not.

ents include Idaho potato flakes and garlic powder. But

While you indulge in the deliciousness, let the kids

ultimately she chose Planet Earth, blue in hue thanks to

spread out a bit on the patio at Sportsmen’s Lodge.

spirulina, and flecked with green matcha tea cake. I was

Adults can also take five. The people-watching is great,

bowled over by a flavor called Big Face Coffee Affogato.

the landscaping is pretty at the new outdoor shopping

It tastes like your favorite creamy coffee drink, only it’s

mall, and hey, spring is in the air. ■

| 71

Farm Fresh Laguna THE RANCH AT LAGUNA BEACH, TUCKED INTO A SEASIDE CANYON, IS BOTH A LUXURY RETREAT AND A SHOWCASE FOR SUSTAINABILITY. THINK GOLF, SPA, AND AN ON-SITE FARM REPLETE WITH EDIBLE FLOWERS AND PRODUCTIVE CHICKENS. Written by Chelsee Lowe

The Ranch at Laguna Beach is just minutes from the

Leo Goldsmith oversees the garden and its surround-

Pacific by foot, but it feels a world away, set on Aliso

ings. He chooses seed varieties to sow each season,

Creek and tucked into a canyon beneath colossal

tends dozens of chickens (all eggs go into the house-

rocky walls. Within that world are 97 luxurious rooms

made pasta dishes) and nurtures a steamy compost

(including a 1950s two-bedroom treehouse), a nine-

pile—metaphorical gold for any gardener. As we tasted

hole golf course and a half-acre biodynamic garden.

purple borage flowers on a recent afternoon alongside

The latter is a nod to the history of this land—it’s the

executive chef Kyle St. John, we discussed the prop-

exact spot where the first known homestead in Laguna

erty’s focus on sustainability.

Beach was built, in the 1870s, by a farmer named George Thurston.

“To me, it’s about using the resources you have available, limiting what you purchase from far away,

The melons and beans Thurston grew have been re-

and limiting your trash,” farmer Leo shared. An esti-

placed by edible flowers and produce that go straight to

mated 20,000 pounds of The Ranch’s food waste goes

Harvest, the property’s cornerstone restaurant. Farmer

into its compost system. Beyond the garden fence, The

Farmer Leo (left) works with chef Kyle St. John to determine what to 72 | grow in the on-site garden.

SADDLING UP

HOW TO EXPERIENCE THE RANCH, WHETHER AS OVERNIGHT GUEST OR DAY TRIPPER. • Public garden tours take place every Thursday at 4 p.m.

• Book a fire pit at The Front Porch for a sunset gathering.

• Have dinner at Harvest (reserve on Open Table).

• Play a round of golf.

• Stay the night; rooms begin at $449. | 73

Ranch is plastic-free—even in-room water and cof-

A stay at The Ranch is made even sweeter by the

fee cups are reusable—and the land is irrigated with

serenity of the setting. My husband and I soaked in the

reclaimed water. All glass bottles are recycled on-site,

hot tub one night, noticing how radiantly green the

crushed, and added to golf course bunkers.

mountains were thanks to this year’s epic rains. We

Seafood comes from local partners. If you’re order-

walked 350 yards to Aliso Beach to enjoy coffee at Lost

ing, say, Chef Kyle’s ceviche, you get rod-caught fish

Pier Cafe, which is also operated by The Ranch. Later

from local waters. Uni is acquired sustainably, too—sea

we enjoyed drinks and live music at The Porch, with

urchins are caught and hand-delivered weekly by Santa

the golf course and canyon as a backdrop. It’s easy to

Barbara diver Pierre Charest. Even The Ranch’s coastal

understand why locals gravitate to The Ranch. They

cottage interior design is homegrown, by Laguna Beach

too can’t help reveling in this idyllic world within their

firm (and downtown retail store) Tuvalu Home.

beautiful seaside town. ■

CHEF KYLE’S FISH CEVICHE WITH PASSION FRUIT AGUACHILE AND PICO DE GALLO For the aguachile: In a blender, mix 1 cup lime juice with 4 cloves garlic and two 1-inch chunks of peeled ginger. Whisk in ¼ cup aji amarillo paste, 2 tbs honey and ½ cup passion fruit puree. Season to taste with salt; yields 2 cups.

For the pico de gallo: In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomato (cored and seeded, about 2 cups), ¼ cup seeded and diced jalapeño, ¼ cup diced yellow onion, ¼ cup finely minced cilantro, and ¼ cup fresh lime juice with some zest added. Season to taste with salt and pepper; yields three cups.

For the ceviche: Buy filet of local seasonal fish (Pacific black gill rockfish, for example, or sea bass or halibut), cleaned of bones and scales and diced in ½-inch cubes (about 4 cups). Combine in a bowl with 3 cups of fresh lime juice and Maldon sea salt to taste. Let ceviche “cook” in lime juice for at least an hour, stirring every so often.

Then strain ceviche from the lime juice, place marinated fish in a chilled bowl, add passion fruit aguachile and pico de gallo, and mix with a spoon until combined.

Garnish with avocado. Eat immediately. Pairs best with fresh tortilla chips and a cold beer.

74 |

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just listed by lit tle house / l a

850 Country Club Drive

13139 W Lumina Way

4 Bed | 4 Bath | 2,700 Sq Ft.

3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 1,930 Sq Ft.

OFFERED AT $1,379,000

OFFERED AT $890,000

850CountryClub.com

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R E A L E S TAT E

Stunning Designer Home New construction home situated South of the Blvd in the heart of Encino. Enjoy preparing meals in the chef’s kitchen featuring top-of-the-line appliances, 2 islands & a walk-in pantry. The adjoining family room boasts a pocket door that allows for indoor/outdoor living. Amenities include a formal dining room, living room, expansive primary suite, home theater, secondary family room, office & laundry room. The backyard consists of a sparkling pool/spa, pool house w/ bathroom & summer kitchen.

5007 Texhoma Avenue, Encino 5 Bed | 7.5 Bath | 5,800 SqFt | 10,848 SqFt Lot List Price: $4,499,000 Listed with Dennis Chernov | CEO of The Chernov Team | Managing Partner of The Agency The Valley 818-432-1524 | dennis@chernovteam.com | LIC #01850113

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

| 77

JUST SOLD $26,000,000 BUYER BY KE VIN DEE S | LIC. #01915567 SEL L ER BY KE VIN DEE S | LIC. #01915567, SEBA S TIA N SPA DER | LIC. #02013827

One Property, One Team.

Find us on both sides of the transaction.

FROM LOS ANGELES TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

13921 YUKON STREET

3928 HAYVENHURST DRIVE

SOLD FOR $14,000,000

SOLD FOR $10,200,000

BUYER: EMIL HARTOONIAN | LIC. #01796925

BUYER: MICHELLE SCHWART Z | LIC. #01889141, ADRIENNE HERKES | LIC. #02074276

SELLER: INGRID SACERIO | LIC. #01905431, GRIFFIN SWEET | LIC. #02078712

SELLER: CR AIG KNIZEK | LIC. #01377932, NIKKI JOEL | LIC. #01784589

4501 HAYVENHURST AVENUE

16447 MARBRO DRIVE

SOLD FOR $7,550,000

SOLD FOR $3,520,000

BUYER: NIKKI JOEL | LIC. #01784589

BUYER: NICK SANDLER | LIC. #02003365, BENNET T HIRSCH | LIC. #02028724

SELLER: JONATHAN RUIZ | LIC. #01886713

SELLER: ANDREA KORCHEK | LIC. #01311917

4828 OAK PARK AVENUE

4404 VANALDEN AVENUE

SOLD FOR $4,848,000

SOLD FOR $3,099,000

BUYER: BILLY ROSE | LIC. #01302611

BUYER: CR AIG KNIZEK | 424.230.3718 | LIC. #01377932

SELLER: MICHELLE SCHWART Z | LIC. #01889141, ADRIENNE HERKES | LIC. #02074276

SELLER: DENNIS CHERNOV | LIC. #01850113, STEVEN EJEFOR | LIC. #1956782

T HE AGENCYRE.C OM

23622 CAL ABASAS ROAD, SUITE 148, CAL ABASAS, CA 91302

JUST LISTED!

12142 LAUREL TERRACE DRIVE | STUDIO CITY 5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 5,590 SQ. FT. | 6,033 SQ. FT. LOT

JUST SOLD $7,825,000

4137 MARY ELLEN AVE | STUDIO CITY

RECORD BREAKING SALE!

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

IN ESCROW

11728 HARTSOOK ST | VALLEY VILLAGE

3818 BENEDICT CANYON | SHERMAN OAKS

JUST SOLD

*REPRESENTED BUYER 13917 LA MAIDA ST | SHERMAN OAKS *OFF MARKET SALE

3378 CANTON LN | STUDIO CITY

IN ESCROW

11606 OTSEGO ST | VALLEY VILLAGE

11622 HUSTON ST | VALLEY VILLAGE

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

FOR SALE

AD

11726 BLIX ST | VALLEY VILLAGE

4517 STANSBURY AVE | SHERMAN OAKS

3358 COY DR | SHERMAN OAKS

FOR SALE

4063 SUNNYSLOPE AVE | SHERMAN OAKS

ANDREW DINSKY 310.729.3393

ANDREW@THEDINSKYTEAM.COM DRE #01724985

THEDINSKYTEAM.COM

The information contained herein has been obtained through sources deemed reliable but cannot be guaranteed as to its accuracy. Buyer to verify accuracy of information. DRE #01811831.

ANDREW MANNING | REALTOR ®

AT UR ED FE

4508 Haskell Ave | Encino 6 Bed |8 Bath | Approx. 7,722 sqft | 16,224 sqft lot Offered at: $7,900,000

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

15721 Morrison St | Encino 4 Bed | 5.5 Bath | Approx. 3,515 sqft | 6,756 sqft lot Offered at: $3,695,000

4541 Dempsey Ave | Encino 6 Bed | 6.5 Bath | Approx. 5,171 sqft | 8,456 sqft lot Offered at: $4,750,000

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

4447 Camillia Ave | Encino 5 Bed | 5.5 Bath | Approx. 4,300 sqft | 8,260 sqft lot Offered at: $3,950,000

12050 Valleyheart Dr #104 | Studio City 3 Bed | 2 Bath | Approx. 1,330 sqft Offered at: $899,000

15641 High Knoll Rd | Encino 5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | Approx. 3,110 sqft | 27,468 Sqft Offered at: $3,249,000

SOLD

ACTIVE

SOLD

5330 Amestoy Ave | Encino SOLD AND OFFER AT THE LISTING PRICE

5321 Oak Park Ave | Encino SOLD AND OFFER AT THE LISTING PRICE

Adi Livyatan

New Construction and Luxury Home Specialist Wall Street Journal Ranked #15 in CA | #28 in the Nation Mobile: 818.919.4060 • Office: 818.285.3220 Email: adilivyatan@yahoo.com DRE# 1892750

19471 Rosita St|Tarzana 5 Bed | 4 Bath | Approx. 3,669 sqft Offered at: $3,195,000

www.AdiLivyatan.com

HALF A BILLION SOLD IN 2021 &2022

WOR K WITH A PREMI ER AG ENT B AR RY DA N TAG N A N G E TS R E S ULTS

30+ YEARS OF EXPER IEN CE

# 1 AGENT AT COLDWE LL BA N K E R R E ALTY SHE R M A N OA KS O F F I CE

# 7 INDIVIDUAL COLDWE LL BA N K E R ® AG E NT IN GR E AT E R LOS A NG E L E S FOR 2 02 2

C. 818.426.8677 | BarryDantagnan@gmail.com BarryDantagnan.com | CalRE #01020477

Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

230XB4-DC_GLA_3/23

© 2023 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. The Sotheby’s International Realty network fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

TOLUCA LAKE

LOS ANGELES

5013 Auckland Avenue

AVAILABLE FOR LEASE

KEVIN PANE

MARY PANE

DRE#02007794

DRE#00661949

424.535.0550 | info@PaneTeam.com | www.PaneTeam.com

ACTIVE

5007 Texhoma Avenue ENCINO, CA 91316 $4,499,000 5

7.5

5,800

10,848

BEDS

BATHS

SQ. FT.

SQ. FT. LOT

AC

TIV

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17173 STRAWBERRY DRIVE | ENCINO 7 BEDS | 8 BATHS | 6,812 SQ. FT. | 15,388 SQ. FT. LOT | $6,289,000

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17655 KAREN DRIVE | ENCINO

19609 W. CITRUS RIDGE DRIVE | TARZANA

4329 AGNES AVENUE | STUDIO CITY

5 BEDS | 5.5 BATHS | 9,099 SQ. FT. | 30,657 SQ. FT. LOT | $6,495,000

5 BEDS | 6.5 BATHS | 6,581 SQ. FT. | 72,471 SQ. FT. LOT | $4,975,000

5 BEDS | 5.5 BATHS | 4,000 SQ. FT. | 6,759 SQ. FT. LOT | $3,499,999

AC

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E IN

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OW

ES

IN

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5649 CAMELLIA AVENUE | NORTH HOLLYWOOD

23648 SANDALWOOD STREET | WEST HILLS

14853 ROUND VALLEY DRIVE | SHERMAN OAKS

5463 COLLINGWOOD CIRCLE | CALABASAS

2 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 1,745 SQ. FT. | 11,249 SQ. FT. LOT | $1,149,000

6 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 3,008 SQ. FT. | 10,564 SQ. FT. LOT | $1,499,900

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 3,518 SQ. FT. | 7,343 SQ. FT. LOT | $1,850,000

6 BEDS | 7 BATHS | 7,239 SQ. FT. | 25,091 SQ. FT. LOT | $4,999,999

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21520 VELICATA STREET | WOODLAND HILLS

4519 DENSMORE AVENUE | ENCINO

17421 MAGNOLIA BOULEVARD | ENCINO

4833 GAYNOR AVENUE | ENCINO

4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 2,411 SQ. FT. | 15,168 SQ. FT .LOT | $2,020,000

7 BEDS | 7.5 BATHS | 8,356 SQ. FT. | 23,896 SQ. FT. LOT | $6,240,000

7 BEDS | 7.5 BATHS | 8,812 SQ. FT. | 27,112 SQ. FT. LOT | $8,400,000

4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 2,418 SQ. FT. | 5,013 SQ. FT. LOT | $2,115,000

S JU

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D S JU

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OL

D S JU

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D S JU

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19265 ALLANDALE DRIVE | TARZANA

4404 VANALDEN AVENUE | TARZANA

15960 VALLEY WOOD ROAD | SHERMAN OAKS

2947 GRACELAND WAY | GLENDALE

6 BEDS | 5.5 BATHS | 6,399 SQ. FT. | 19,773 SQ. FT. LOT | $3,960,000

6 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 4,688 SQ. FT. | 36,781 SQ. FT. LOT | $2,960,600

4 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 2,326 SQ. FT. | 25,001 SQ. FT. LOT | $2,100,000

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 3,639 SQ. FT. | 17,874 SQ. FT. LOT | $3,105,000

$1 Billion in Sales 2020-2022 Each office is independently owned and operated. If your property is listed with another broker, this is not a solicitation. The Agency 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 or other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection with appropriate licensed professionals. DRE #01904054

JUST SOLD $26,000,000 TOP 3 ALL-TIME HIGHEST SALE IN THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY ALL-TIME HIGHEST SALE IN TOLUCA LAKE

KEVIN DEES DEES & ASSOCCIATES KDEES@THEAGENCYRE.COM 818.414.3404 | LIC. #01915567

THEAGENCYRE.COM

ACTIVE 8803 Appian Way, Hollywood Hills Offered at $3,600,000

ACTIVE 211 S. Rose Street, Burbank / Toluca Lake Offered at $2,299,000

ACTIVE 15310 Kingswood Lane, Sherman Oaks Offered at $18,000 / Month

ACTIVE 10024 Toluca Lake Avenue, Toluca Lake

ACTIVE 4724 1/2 Forman Lane, Toluca Lake

Offered at $6,495,000

Offered at $3,295,000

SOLD OFF MARKET 11138 Valley Spring Lane Studio City

SOLD 11019 Hortense Street Toluca Lake

SOLD OVER ASKING 4265 Denny Avenue Toluca Lake

Sold for $2,322,500

Sold for $2,067,500

Sold for $1,430,000

SOLD 10435 Whipple Street Toluca Lake Sold for $1,400,000

CRAIG STRONG Vice President, Luxury Home Sales Lead Mentor & Coach Top 1% Nationwide #1 Individual Agent Companywide $1.4+ Billion in Total Sales Volume

818.930.4050 info@strongrealtor.com strongrealtor.com DRE # 01450987

SOLD 10344 Whipple Street, Toluca Lake Sold for $2,000,000

Compass 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

George Ouzounian & Gina Michelle

LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL Top 100 Residential Real Estate Agents 2021, 2022, 2023 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL Leaders of Influence Residential Real Estate LOS ANGELES MAGAZINE Real Estate All-Stars 2021, 2022, 2023 THE AGENCY Top Team in the Valley 2021 THE AGENCY Chairman Award Winners 2021, 2022, 2023 REAL TRENDS Top 1% in the Nation 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 REAL TRENDS #29 Small Team In California OVER 1 BILLION IN CAREER SALES

GEORGE OUZOUNIAN Director, Estates Division 818.900.4259 George.Oz@TheAgencyRE.com Lic. # 01948763

GINA MICHELLE Director, Estates Division 818.850.1458 Gina.Michelle@TheAgencyRE.com Lic. # 01503003

MICHAEL BERGIN | LUXURY ESTATES DIRECTOR

JUST SOLD

IN ESCROW

JUST SOLD

IN ESCROW

357 Lorraine Blvd, Los Angeles Represented Buyer $8,500,000

11138 Valley Spring Ln, Studio City Sold Before Processing $2,322,500

N E IGH B OR

3105 Elvido Drive, Brentwood 4 Beds 3.5 Baths 4,089± Sqft $3,695,000

23133 Mariano St, Woodland Hills 4 Beds 4 Baths Guest House $1,895,000 Tennis Court

•

JUST SOLD

FOR SALE

COMING SOON

COMING SOON

4425 Bellingham Ave, Studio City 4 Beds 4.5 Baths Off Market $2,690,000 New Construction

EX PE RT

450 N Maple #401, Beverly Hills 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,968± Sqft $3,395,000

Palms / Mar Vista 4 Beds 4 Baths Modern New Construction

•

FRIEND

Olin Street, Los Angeles 5 Beds 5 Baths ADU New Construction

•

R E A LTOR

The Bergin Group 310.600.0715 Michael@MichaelBergin.com DRE 01845572

Top 1% Agent in Southern California #1 Compass Agent in Studio City / Sherman Oaks Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. *Data sourced from americandreamnetwork.tv

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR | REALTOR ® CalDRE License #01246402

818-933-5866

oren@orenestates.com

AnastasiaDrive.com

5656Wish.com

4448GloriaAve.com

5656 Wish Ave. | Encino | $1,550,000 3951 Anastasia Dr. | Encino | $3,149,000 4448 Gloria Ave. | Encino | $1,649,000

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

12438 Laurel Ter. | Studio City | $1,399,000 14290 Dickens St. #205 | Sherman Oaks | $989,000 3928 Ballina Dr. | Encino | $2,249,000

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

24255 Abbeywood Dr. | West Hills | $1,599,000 317 S. Windsor Bl. | Hancock Park | $9,999,000 17881 Av. Puerto Vallarta | Encino | $3,599,000

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

4630 Woodley Ave. #107 | Encino | $1,225,000 4314 Grimes Pl. | Encino | $2,389,000 3616 Green Vista Dr. | Encino | $2,349,000

Curious what your home is worth?

Contact Oren for a complimentary home analysis!

OrenEstates.com

EQUITY UNION WELCOMES

B R E N DA R O SS

HARMA HARTOUNI, BRENDA ROSS & DAN STUEVE AT EQUITY UNION’S 2022 HOLIDAY PARTY

BRENDA ROSS REALTOR® | DRE#00952276

661.803.5878 brenda@brendaross.com brendaross.com EQUIT Y UNION 818.989.2000 info@equityunion.com equityunion.com

A LITTLE ABOUT BRENDA... With more than 25 years of experience in the real estate profession, she, along with the added strength of Equity Union Luxury Properties innovative marketing platform, full service team and the support of their CEO, Harma Hartouni, will be able to provide her clients additional benefits and increased services.

Brenda’s finance degree and education from CSUN helped integrate her analytical skills into real estate which affords her the ability to successfully resolve any problems that arise. “Whether it’s working with sellers, buyers, or relocation clients, it’s truly invigorating, challenging and rewarding helping people achieve their goals.”- Brenda Ross Along with her corporate background as a financial analyst, Brenda has her own support team that includes CPAs, Attorneys, Financial Advisors, Lenders and a Marketing Staff. Brenda has the experience and knowledge to navigate every situation for her client’s best interest.

Brenda has sold numerous homes in the greater Los Angeles area including the San Fernando and the Santa Clarita Valleys. She knows these areas extremely well, as she grew up in the valley.

Brenda’s residential real estate expertise, negotiating skills, integrity and passion for personal service has set a high standard of excellence throughout her career.

What makes Brenda an exceptional realtor is the fact that her core philosophy has always been to protect her clients’ interest first and foremost and to treat them the way she expects to be treated, “With Honesty, Integrity and Respect”.

You can call/text Brenda at 661-803-5878.

BRENTWOOD | ENCINO | PALM SPRINGS | PALM DESERT | SANTA CLARITA | SHERMAN OAKS | TOLUCA LAKE | WOODLAND HILLS

What makes our Group Unique?

YOUR TRANSACTION IS OUR PRIORITY As a group, we can handle multiple clients without losing priority on your transaction.

AVAILABLE TO SHOW ANYTIME We are always available to show properties, working with your schedule.

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK! Our clients gain our collective knowledge without paying extra commission.

WE KNOW LOS ANGELES! Our agents bring unique experiences and expertise in Real Estate in and around Los Angeles - giving our clients an advantage in any transaction.

Stephanie Payab, Realtor® 818-269-2796 CalDRE 01394407

stephanie@thepayabgroup.com © 2023 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

Nobody does it better...

Fine Estates®

NEW LISTING

LISTING

3719 Winford Drive, Tarzana

19200 Allandale Drive, Tarzana

MULHOLLAND PARK LARGEST PLAN 6 ON ALMOST 1 ACRE! Offered at $4,950,000

SPECTACULAR UPDATED MULHOLLAND PARK ESTATE! Offered at $4,750,000

JUST SOLD

IN ESCROW

17440 Weddington Street, Encino

17030 Strawberry Drive, Encino

SPECTACULAR AMESTOY ESTATES SINGLE STORY! Sold for $3,100,000 ($101,000 Over the Asking Price)

www.CarolWolfe.com

818.285.3688 DRE #00477745

#1

INDIVIDUAL

AGENT WALL STREET JOURNAL

MID-CENTURY MODERN WITH VIEW! Offered at $2,399,000

JUST LISTED

JUST LISTED

ACTIVE

COMING SOON

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

IN ESCROW

Experience Matters OVER 2 DECADES OF EXPERIENCE WITH UNRIVALED RESULTS

#1

SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY AGENT IN THE VALLEY

500+

HOMES SOLD & COUNTING...

REAL ESTATE ALL - STARS 2021 | 2022 | 2023

BROKER ASSOCIATE DRE#01430970

818.415.1819

For More Information Visit

Michael@theMJOgroup.com

SouthOfTheBlvd.com

Michael J. Okun is the #1 Sotheby’s International Realty agent in the San Fernando Valley based on the total number of sales from January 01, 2022 to December 31, 2022. © 2023 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. This material is based upon information which we consider reliable but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete and it should not be relied upon as such. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. Equal Housing Opportunity.

SPITZ | CHAVEZ GROUP KNOWS THE VALLEY $2 . 5B+ SALES VOLUME 5 0 + C L O S E D T R A N S A C T I O N S A N N U A L LY “Real Estate All Stars” by Los Angeles Magazine

“Top 100 Real Estate Agents in LA County” by LA Business Journal

“Top >1% of over 1.6 Million Real Estate Professionals in the U.S.” by RealTrends

Selling A Luxury Lifestyle

New Listing 16430 Westfall Pl, Encino 5 BD | 7 BA | 8,600 SF | $8,995,000

Sold Off Market l Royal Oaks Colony 3844 Hayvenhurst Dr, Encino 5 BD | 6 BA | 7,612 SF | $5,900,000

New Listing 15656 Vandorf Pl, Encino 6 BD | 6 BA | 8,519 SF | $4,995,000

Record Sale l Lake Encino 3915VistaLindaDr.com, Encino 5 BD | 5.5 BA | 5,552 SF | $5,375,000

Active 16093 Royal Oak Rd, Encino 4 BD | 4 BA | 4,056 SF | $4,895,000

Andrew Spitz & Fran Chavez Executive Directors of Luxury Estates Top 1% Nationwide • Top 100 in So. Cal. 818.453.9119 | Andrew@AndrewSpitz.com 818.517.1411 | FranChavezRE@gmail.com DRE 00924610 | 01013357 SpitzChavezGroup.com In Escrow 3831ScadlockLn.com, Sherman Oaks 5 BD | 3.5 BA | 3,752 SF | $2,595,000

Sold Multiple Offers 4310Coronet.com, Encino 3 BD | 3 BA | 2,388 SF | $1,885,000

SCG x AKG Encino Branch Office 15760 Ventura Blvd, Encino CA 91436

Serving The Ventura Boulevard Corridor AKG | Christie’s International Real Estate is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527644. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. If your property is currently listed for sale this is not a solicitation.

Unlock special Citi mortgage discounts When you bank at Citi, enjoy: $500 off closing costs* or

1/8% — 5/8% FOR THE LOVE OF

off interest rate

growing together. for the love of progressSM

Ask how you can take advantage of Mortgage Relationship Pricing John Musso Home Lending Officer 818-518-1008 john.musso@citi.com citi.com/johnmusso NMLS# 448606

* Citi Mortgage Relationship Pricing — A Citibank deposit account is required to receive the interest rate discount or closing cost credit.

Automated monthly transfers of the mortgage payment from a Citibank Deposit Account using automated drafting will be required. Actual interest rate discount or closing cost credit will depend on the level of the Citi Eligible Balances, which will be verified after final loan approval.

Deposit Account Balances must be in the account five (5) Business Days following final loan approval and Investment Account balances must be in the account six (6) Business Days following final loan approval. Citi eligible accounts include a personal, consumer Citibank Deposit Account in which the borrower is a direct signer, Citibank IRAs, and Investments held in linked Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGMI”) accounts. The borrower must be an account holder on investment accounts. IRA and annuity positions shown on linked CGMI Account statements are eligible (except tax qualified annuities under sections 401, 403, or 457 of the Internal Revenue Code). Balances from Citibank Business / Commercial accounts, ERISA accounts, Keogh accounts, Bank Collateral accounts, Foreign accounts, Fiduciary accounts, and Trust accounts where the borrower is only listed as the Beneficiary are excluded. All Custodial type accounts are excluded with the exception of Custodial IRA accounts through Citibank or Pershing LLC where the borrower(s) is the beneficiary, which are eligible unless otherwise noted. Citibank IRAs that are not linked to a Citibank Deposit Account are excluded.

Citi Eligible Balance

Relationship Pricing Benefit

$1 – $49,999.99

$500 off closing cost

$50,000 – $199,999.99

1/8% (0.125%) off interest rate

$200,000 – $499,999.99

1/4% (0.250%) off interest rate

$500,000 – $999,999.99

3/8% (0.375%) off interest rate

$1,000,000 – $1,999,999.99

1/2% (0.500%) off interest rate

$2,000,000 or more

5/8% (0.625%) off interest rate

The closing cost credit offer will be applied at closing and may not be used prior to closing. In Texas, the credit may not result in you receiving cash back.

If you are interested in Citi’s banking account relationship offers, please contact your Home Lending Officer or Mortgage Representative. Speak to your loan officer about whether the relationship offer is best for you.

Citibank Mortgage Relationship Pricing for Citibank account holders can only be applied prior to loan closing and is subject to account and balance validation. Citibank Mortgage Relationship Pricing is subject to change without notice.

Glossary of terms for this offer: Business Day means Monday through Friday and does not include federal holidays; Eligible Balances means total funds showing in the account at the time we verify the balances less any funds we determine you will need for a down payment or closing costs; Deposit Account means a Citibank personal checking and/or savings account as well as certificates of deposit and money market accounts; Investment Account means IRAs and investments held in Citigroup Global Markets Inc. accounts.

Terms, conditions and fees for accounts, programs, offers, products and services are subject to change without notice at any time. Offer may be modified or withdrawn at any time without notice. Offer cannot be combined with other offers, except when applied with specific Community Lending Programs. Offers are not applicable on Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit. This is not a commitment to lend.

This offer contains information about U.S. domestic financial services provided by Citibank, N.A. and is intended for use domestically in the U.S. Investment products are offered through Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGMI”), Member SIPC (http://sipc.org). Citibank and CGMI are affiliated companies under the common control of Citigroup Inc.

© 2023 Citibank, N.A. NMLS# 412915. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Citi, Citi and Arc Design and other marks used herein are service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates, used and registered throughout the world.

LAST WORD

Life, Love, Cactus WHILE SOME MAY VIEW CACTUS AS OFF-PUTTING, EVEN SCARY, ONE WRITER SHARES HOW SHE LEARNED TO LOVE THE THORNY SUCCULENTS—PRICKLES AND ALL. Written by Carol Wolper | Illustrated by Yuiko Sugino

I was never a cactus fan. When I moved from Boston to Los

is a reliable mainstay—one that can be counted on to stick

Angeles, my idea of nature’s splendor was still the autumn

around long after a rose has lost its petals.

colors found on a walk through a New England park. But

If I want to make the point that you don’t have to look

now, after all my years in Southern California, I’ve devel-

alike to be alike, I might mention the prickly pear cactus—

oped a deep appreciation for cactus—not only because of its

tall and scary-looking, yet in the same plant family as some

riveting shapes and textures, but because it’s become my

floral succulents suitable for a table centerpiece.

go-to comparison when discussing life or love.

A couple years ago, while visiting a friend, I noticed a

Take for example a conversation I had years ago with a

cactus-like plant that had a long stalk growing out of it. I

therapist. He was explaining why my then-current relation-

had never paid attention to it before. In the following weeks

ship was doomed. He likened it to a cactus plant that thrives

the stalk reached fairy-tale proportions. Turns out this

in the Palm Spring hills, but only at a certain elevation. Move

cactus—agave, actually—is known as the century plant, so

it too far up or down and it dies. When it came to love, he

named because it was once thought to wait 100 years before

believed, I was like that cactus species—rooted in the wrong

blooming. In truth, it blooms every few decades. But still,

place. His point proved accurate when months later the rela-

who knows? I thought I might be witnessing its 21st-century

tionship fell apart, ending my summer of love and delusion.

debut. I love that this plant can hang around for so long be-

Fast-forward a few years later to a different cactus anal-

fore it dazzles. Talk about playing the long game. Talk about

ogy. At one of my girls’-night dinners, my friends light-

saving the best for last. Talk about aging being a plus, not a

heartedly rated where we each fell on the relationship main-

diminishment.

tenance spectrum. The question was this: When it comes to

There’s no denying that the changing colors of a New

romantic entanglements, were we high- or low-mainte-

England sugar maple is one of nature’s masterpieces.

nance? Or, worse, high-maintenance pretending to be low-

However, the California cactus has slowly but surely found a

maintenance? My reply: I was not as high-maintenance as a

prominent place in my LA stories—and my heart. ■

hothouse orchid but not as low-maintenance as a cactus.

The cactus has also become a boon to my storytelling.

Looking for a metaphor for the word “reliable”? A cactus

98 |

Carol Wolper is a screenwriter and novelist. She is currently writing a memoir about her experiences working in Hollywood.

THE WONDER WOMEN OF REAL ESTATE HARRIET CAMERON GROUP

HERE TO SERVE YOU! $1.625+ BILLION IN RESIDENTIAL SALES Harriet Cameron Harriet@HarrietCameron.com | 818-380-2151 DRE#00675971

Jenny Birchfield-Eick Jenny@JennyBirchfield.com | 818-601-8663 DRE#02070744

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

$

OR F D L NG I O S K S A R E V O 0 315,00

4020 BENEDICT CANYON DR, SHERMAN OAKS

© 2023 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this information. Based on information obtained from the MLS as of (include the date data was obtained). Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

7630

Gloria

Avenue

Van

Nuys,

CA

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