LUXURY IN B A L A N C E™ ™
SUMMER 2017
A MOMENT
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A R T F U L Handmade and well-made...and details always matter
R E L A X E D Strolling the shops and grabbing a bite waterside
WELCOME TO OUR WORLD Swiss Watch Gallery
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PROM OTION
ARTS PROFILE
Frame the Moment at the 85th Annual Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach
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he Festival of Arts Fine Art Show celebrates its 85th anniversary July 5 through August 31, 2017 in Laguna Beach, California. The Festival has been rated one of the top festivals in the nation and each year hosts 140 of Orange County’s most talented artists. Recent accolades include Orange County Register’s Best Place to Buy Original Art, Art Fair Calendar’s Top Five Art Fairs in the West and Top 5 Art Festival in the nation voted by USA Today readers. Live music, hands-on art activities, exhibitions of local student artwork and a wide variety of special events round out one of southern California’s favorite outdoor summer event.
an outstanding variety of fine art to browse and purchase as they walk among the artists displays,” says Marketing and Public Relations Director Sharbie Higuchi. The Festival of Arts is a professionally juried fine art show featuring a diverse selection of artwork including paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more from artists around Orange County. Since opening in 1932, thousands have shown and sold their artwork at the Festival and many have their work featured in the private collections of leading art collectors, celebrities, and museums around the world.
events calendar includes nightly live music, jazz concerts, wine and chocolate pairings, guided art tours and art workshops. Several special one-day events return this year, including the Festival Runway Fashion Show and Family Art Day.
Festival of Arts
“Avid art collectors and festival-goers will have
In addition to the variety of artwork, the Festival of Arts offers a wide range of daily activities that the whole family can enjoy. The 2017
In 2017, the Festival of Arts debuts its brand new $13 million facility which features a new layout for the art exhibit area, workshops, gift shop and concert stage. Last remodeled in 1964, the renovated grounds have been updated to meet accessibility standards and incorporate progressive sustainability features. The plans also call for additional and updated restrooms and wider pathways. Tensile roof pavilions shelter artwork from sun and rain, the green
lawn where patrons picnic and enjoy concerts is nearer to the entry, the gift shop is relocated and expanded, and the junior art exhibit has a prominent location near the entrance. “The Festival of Arts grounds have been completely transformed and modernized as a result of this extensive renovation,” said Board President Fred Sattler. “We look forward to sharing our new ‘digs’ with our patrons and the community this summer during our 85th anniversary celebration.”
PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS WHERE ART COMES TO LIFE
Festival of Arts
July 7 - August 31, 2017
General admission: $8 - $12 www.LagunaFestivalofArts.org
Celebrity Benefit Event Exclusive Pageant & Celebrity Concert August 26, 2017 Tickets: $50 - $230 Join us for a star-studded red carpet event featuring our world-class art exhibit, an exclusive live concert with legendary brass musician Herb Alpert and singer Lani Hall, a performance of the Pageant of the Masters hosted by award-winning actor Bryan Cranston, and the exciting conclusion of our extraordinary raffle for a new Acura TLX. www.PageantT ick ets.com
The Festival of Arts also produces one of the most unique productions in the world, the Pageant of the Masters. This one-of-a-kind show combines theater, performance art and art history. Each evening during the summer season, classic and contemporary works of art are faithfully recreated with theatrical illusion and real people posing as living pictures. A live narrator serves as a guide through the story of each re-creation accompanied by the music of a professional orchestra. This year’s Pageant theme is “The Grand Tour.” A ticket to the 2017 Pageant of the Masters becomes a passport to experience spectacle, music, stories and grand illusions as masterpieces come to life. Tickets $15 - $230 www.PageantTickets.com
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table of contents
SUMMER ISSUE 2017
38 In Full Bloom The loveliest floral finds to keep your wardrobe looking effortlessly cool 40 Eclectic, by Design White Lilac cultivates a new brand of boutique at South Coast Plaza 41 Masters of Trade Getting up close and personal with some of the finest entrepreneurs in SoCal
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BEYOND 74 Paradise Discovered The one and only trip you need to take this year is to the Maldives
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FASHION 78 Making a Splash On the beaches of Cameo Shores in Corona del Mar... playful colors and styles naturally complete go-to ensembles from dawn to dusk
IN THE GLOW 27 Memory Lane The road to a luxuriously restorative staycation leads to Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara 30 Magnificent Marina Marina del Rey offers an incredible escape, complete with luxe accommodations, culinary delights and activities aplenty 32 Bucket-List Books A bibliophile’s lit picks for your library
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27 TABLE & LOOKING BACK 130 Haute Concept Bluegold and its restaurantwithin-a-restaurant, LSXO, serve up two distinct cuisines 134 New American Cuisine Owners and operators behind Driftwood Kitchen and The Deck in Laguna Beach open a third concept, Hendrix, in Laguna Niguel 137 Summer Classic An illustrious boat builder and its model wooden craft evoke the luminous, sunlit season
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
LUXURY IN B A L A N C E™ ™
Publisher
JOLIE ADAMS
jolie@baskmagazine.com
Editor in Chief
AMY ADAMS
amy@baskmagazine.com
Contributing Writers
DANIELLE ACCOVELLI, WENDY BOWMAN CONSTANCE DUNN, BETH FHANER, SUSAN IRBY MICHELLE LYN, ANNE MACK, JENN THORNTON
H
appy Independence Day to all! The holiday we know as the Fourth of July commemorates what was newly formed United States of America’s decision to adopt the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and, in doing so, legally separating from the British Empire and foreign rule.
Photographer
TONY FLOREZ
Associate Publisher LINDA MCCALL
Senior Account Manager
Pub Letter / Masthead
Summer is, of course, all about freedom. I can’t believe that summer has already arrived; graduation ceremonies are over, kids are out of school and attending various activities, and June is already in the rearview mirror! Now come all the fun family activities we enjoy, from fireworks, parades, and barbecues to carnivals, concerts, baseball games and picnics. I’m not sure how your calendar is looking, but mine is full! Go ahead and take time to really enjoy your summer with family and friends and to reflect on all of the freedoms that we enjoy in our great country. Oh... and a big thank you to those of you who have visited our newly designed website. We are proud and excited to bring you even more quality with our online presence. Enjoy your summer and I’ll be back this fall with much more to share with all of you!
JOLIE ADAMS, Publisher & Co-Founder jolie@baskmagazine.com 20
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REGINA KEY, STEVE TOLIN
IT Director
BR ANDON GILBERT
Vice President, Distribution WES ADAMS
Vice President, Operations JOANNE WATANABE
President
PAULA ANSAR A-WILHELM paula@baskmagazine.com
Visit baskmagazine.com for online coverage of special events throughout Southern California For advertising inquiries, please call 714-345-0222 or contact us at info@baskmagazine.com © Copyright 2017 by SPI Media LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. BASK MAGAZINE and LUXURY IN BALANCE are registered trademarks of SPI Media, LLC, 1400 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660. BASK MAGAZINE is printed in the USA on recycled paper with soy-based inks using a printer that meets all Federal Resource Conservation Act Standards and is a certified member of the Forest Stewardship Council.
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Bon Vivant
Indulgences to love, life to enjoy
So breathtakingly beautiful, this necklace is the only accent piece you need for the evening. Tiffany & Co. Whispers of the Rain Forest necklace in platinum and 18K gold with diamonds from the 2017 Blue Book Collection. Price upon request, Tiffany.com
Seaside Reflections
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Edit Letter
y family and I just booked our end-of-the-summer holiday. Th is is a sort of tradition for us. I’m not sure why we do it, but I think it has a little something to do with wanting “summertime” to last forever. But, the beauty of living in Southern California is that we never really have to say good-bye to the tangerine sunsets and freedom we feel catching the perfect wave, building sand castles and frolicking on the beach. It’s one of the reasons I’m so captivated by this issue’s fashion shoot (page 78) with models Alizee Gallard and Jack Cain, who naturally captured the spirit of summer… in our own backyard.
With her recent novel, The Book of Summer, talented and best-selling author Michelle Gable has created a brilliant summer escape—a book to love, and one you’ll recommend to all your friends. $25.99, MichelleGable.com
Farther afield—but not too far—is beautiful Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara (page 27), a summer idyll all its own, with a setting so sublime, it is the staycation of your dreams (and mine too).
Fresh and floral for all day. Aerin Linen Rose Eau de Cologne, $165 (6.7oz.), Aerin.com
Perfect for laundry or storing beach towels, these seagrass tassel baskets make for a darling display. Serena & Lily Tassel Basket, $58 - $89, SerenaandLily.com
Partnered with Christy Turlington Burns, TOMS will donate $5 for every purchase of an Every Mother Counts product, including this handy limited-edition burlap tote. Compass Tote, $68, TOMS.com
If staying home this season, you’ll surely be spellbound. The sun, the sand, the surf (the barbecues, the books, the pool)—“summertime” is absolute magic in SoCal. So cue up the classic tunes, mix a cocktail, and immerse yourself in the sun-drenched haze of the season.
AMY ADAMS Editor in Chief amy@baskmagazine.com 22
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Comfortable and classic, this rattan chair will naturally dress up any season soirée. Serena & Lily Shore Dining Chair with Cushion, $468, SerenaandLily.com
Find me @AIMERSAMA, and bask Magazine @BASKMAG on INSTAGRAM
Photos courtesy of La Perla, Tiffany & Co., Aerin, Serena & Lily, TOMS and St. Martin’s Press
An alluring mélange of soft and silky fabric with edgy and feminine appeal; easily worn day or night. La Perla Maps in Bloom Bi-Stretch Silk Bomber With Embroidery, $2860, LaPerla.com
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CONTRIBUTORS
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MICHELLE LYN writer
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JENN THORNTON writer
ANNE MACK stylist
A string of quintessential remote desert islands, The Maldives make for a truly unforgettable summer getaway, offering peace, serenity and stunning views, as Michelle Lyn brilliantly details in bask Beyond, “Paradise Discovered.” “Picture the most pristine beaches and water, so far removed from reality that you often forget where you are. The seclusion, coupled with the warm and genuine locals, make it a true Shangri-La,” she says. Michelle’s top three must-try activities in The Maldives: yoga on an overwater pavilion, sunset picnics on a sandbar and snorkeling with sea turtles.
In this issue’s “Looking Back” column, Jenn Thornton poetically reflects on a classic summer pastime: boating. In particular, the beauty and grace of Italian boating brand Riva. “Riva is perfect for OC boating because the brand is so glamorous, and so is this community,” she says. “It’s a nice reflection of local sensibilities in many ways. We like beautiful, well-made things; things with heritage that speak to how we want to live life.” Jenn’s top three ways to enjoy the water: swimming, boating, and gazing at the blue water from underneath a cabana—with book and margarita in hand!
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BETH FHANER writer
Transporting one to the serene scenes of the French countryside, a grand, Mediterraneanstyled estate perched on a Shady Canyon hilltop is a true gem. In “Crown of the Canyon,” writer Constance Dunn takes readers on a visual tour through this remarkable home—from its charming garden and Euro-inspired grounds to its antique fireplaces and marble flooring. “This property is really a testament to how human craftsmanship and design can create a faultless symphony between nature, technology and objects that are hundreds of years old, or brand new,” she says.
In “Magnificent Marina,” Beth Fhaner tells of the summer splendor to be found at The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey. “I always enjoy staying at The Ritz Carlton, Marina del Rey because of the gracious service and the staff ’s attention to detail,” she says. “From the friendly reception upon arrival, to greeting me with my favorite beverage in the Club Lounge, to accommodating a spa appointment to fit my harried schedule, staff always exceeds my expectations.” Beth’s top three SoCal summer staycation locations: Santa Barbara, Del Mar and Catalina Island.
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In bask Style, Anne Mack shares how to look—and feel—cool in some of summer’s hottest styles. “I’ve always correlated off-theshoulder tops with summer. Now, combine them with spaghetti shoulder ties, tiered bishop sleeves or trumpet sleeves, and it’s a classic look brought current. I can’t get enough of it,” she says. Anne’s top three beach bag essentials: an elegantly scented sunscreen with SPF protection; dark, polarized sunglasses; and a large, brimmed hat.
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SUSAN IRBY writer A cut above the rest, The Butchery always ensures one will leave with the highest-quality fare and a wholly unique dining experience, which Susan Irby describes with mouthwatering detail in bask Table, “Counter Cultured.” “Although The Butchery has an on-site deli, the experience is found at the meat, charcuterie and cheese counter,” says Susan. “Savoring specialty prosciutto; parma ham; regional, local and European cheese selections; and, of course, awe-inspiring notable meats and poultry, are worthy of the finest guests and at-home dinner presentations.” Susan’s top three grill-worthy summer meals: grilled peaches or nectarines drizzled in aged balsamic, her own Campfire Chicken recipe and fresh rosemary-thyme crusted rack of lamb.
San Clemente Villas
IN THE GLOW
ITG - Intro
Seaside trails at Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara. Photo courtesy of Bacara Resort & Spa
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GETAWAY
ITG - Bacara
Memory Lane The road to a luxuriously restorative staycation leads to Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara WRITTEN BY AMY ADAMS
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ith the sun-drenched season in full flux, it’s prime time for a summer sojourn. While I truly love and long for the thrill of going someplace worldly or wildly tropical, sometimes a lengthy trip is just not realistic. Rather than struggle to find time to travel abroad for an extended period, I’ve resolved to be the quintessential “staycationer”—and a great advocate of exceptionally long weekends. Thus, when I was recently invited to join friends at Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara, my response was simple—yes! THE ROAD TO HOLIDAY When I was younger, I drove from Orange County to SB to visit friends in college. As I recall, my zesty little four-cylinder 28
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Volkswagen could hover around 3000RPMS and make the trek in exactly three hours. Now, with a lot more cars on the road and avoiding bustling L.A. traffic hours, I can still make the trip in about the same amount of time. Let me remind you, the view along the way is breathtaking. Once you’ve meandered through L.A. and reach Ventura, the highway opens up and starts to skim the coastline, with miles of glittering ocean waves crashing on the left and towering rugged rock formations on the right; pause at the scenery and feel worlds away. Suddenly, the drive is less about “just getting there” and more about being in the moment, leisurely embracing the journey. If, however, you simply aren’t up for driving, taking a train is an effortless, and rather relaxing, alternative. (Tip: Download the Amtrak app to book your ticket, and monitor departure and arrival times.) Depending on your station of departure, the ride may take a little longer than the drive (from OC to SB, roughly four hours), and you’ll arrive at the resort without a car, but arranging for transportation is easy. That is, if you leave the resort grounds at all. HOTEL LUXE Bacara Resort & Spa is part of The Meritage Collection (with Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach a sister location), so expect nothing less than an ultra-luxe, ready-made escape. Upon arriving
by Visit Santa Ynez with transportation by Stage Coach Tours, and yes, I realize, it actually can. Not one for guided tours, I thoroughly enjoy this unique experience. The tour bus is exceptionally nice, a perfect size for our small group, and the bus driver incredibly hospitable and knowledgeable, entertaining us with stories about the area. Roughly an hour’s commute from the resort, we tour and taste wines from Gainey, Brander and Lincourt vineyards, then partake of a phenomenal private lunch of fresh vegetables, risotto and meats at Mattei’s Tavern. Since leaving home, it’s been, quite literally, one indulgence after another… …after still another. Driving from the vineyards, through the hills, and back to the resort, the ocean comes into view. So close to home, yet so far away—a three-day trip, a lasting memory. One not far from my mind. MeritageCollection.com at Bacara, I immediately think, Wow, it’s taken entirely too long to come back here. But why? The short answer: time. But, alas, finally I’m here, in something of a daydream and still riding the high from the beautiful commute, the sky is a vibrant blue, the sun shining, and falls of brilliant magenta bougainvillea are dancing in the breeze. The expansive property, gorgeously sculpted by 78 coastal acres of scattered smooth white stucco bungalows with red-tiled roofs in a sea of lush landscape and walking trails, immediately evokes a sense of serenity and relaxation. Anxious to see my accommodations, I quickly check in. The walk to my suite, however, is anything but brisk. Quiet and tranquil, swaths of verdant lawns and vibrant flowers punctuate rolling pathways, while birds sing sweetly and flutter about hefty trees that shadow the lane as I trail to my room. My oceanfront suite, definitely affording more space than one person needs, feels elegant and indulgent. Spacious and well-appointed with a private patio and sweeping windows facing the sun-baked shoreline, it is absolutely bewitching— and all mine for the next few days. Below is a natural estuary at the foot of the grounds. Inside, in true Meritage fashion, is a beautiful array of fresh fruits, cheese and wine.
(clockwise from top left) The resort’s expansive and beautifully-appointed lobby; the ultra-luxe, 42,000-square-foot legendary spa and wellness center; breathtaking vistas of the Pacific; property trails offer magnificent sunset views. Photos courtesy of Bacara Resort & Spa.
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THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS Although one could easily laze away in the comforts of this domain, order room service and spend the day reading on the patio and soaking in the hypnotic crystalline vistas, the resort is brimming with a bevy of things to see and do. I start my mornings with a workout. Counterintuitive? Perhaps, but I’m much more likely to explore a new exercise routine while on holiday; plus, there’s the matter of burning off a few extra calories from indulging in chef Vincent Lesage’s decadent tasting menu at the new Angel Oak restaurant. From hiking trails and spin classes to swimming and golfing at one of the nearby courses, a variety of recreation is offered, including a trip to the resort’s legendary—and luxurious—42,000-squarefoot spa and wellness center. Thinking that this getaway couldn’t possibly get better, we tour Santa Ynez Wine Country, hosted
GETAWAY
Magnificent Marina
ITG - Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey offers an incredible summer escape, complete with luxe accommodations, culinary delights and activities aplenty WRITTEN BY BETH FHANER
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h, summer—the perfect time for basking in the sun and slowing down the often-frenetic pace of life. For anyone desiring some much-needed R&R this season, consider a getaway to Marina del Rey—a seaside community recognized for having the world’s largest man-made smallcraft harbor. An easy drive from Orange County, L.A.’s premier waterfront playground offers numerous activities to satisfy both ocean lovers and landlubbers alike.
tennis courts, a fitness center, and a waterfront pool and Jacuzzi area with cabanas, in addition to Spa del Rey, which features a full menu of wellness treatments, plus a eucalyptus steam room. For an on-site dining experience, Cast & Plow serves local sustainable cuisine, with seasonal dishes hand-selected by Executive Chef Umit Kaygusuz. At this sophisticated resto, guests can indulge in a sunset dinner and cocktails while enjoying picturesque waterfront views and tabletop fire pits.
The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey serves as a convenient home base while exploring the local area, which also offers close proximity to Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Overlooking the marina, the elegant property boasts 304 recently updated guest rooms—many with water views and design elements that reflect the area’s natural environment, including sea urchin headboards and geode desk lamps. Other property amenities include lighted
Additional spots for savory fare and libations around the Marina include Cafe del Rey, which offers coastal-inspired, contemporary California cuisine in a romantic seaside setting. Sinder Lounge (at the Marina del Rey Marriott) presents a stylish, hip vibe and tasty small plates and flatbreads, in addition to an impressive wine list, craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails. And don’t miss Killer Shrimp Restaurant & Bar, a dockside eatery
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with a mouthwatering signature dish, Killer Shrimp—fresh shrimp cooked to order in a secret spicy sauce, served with French bread. As a “dock and dine” destination, Killer Shrimp also features a public boat dock, so guests can work up an appetite by kayaking, boating or paddleboarding to their meal. A Hornblower Brunch Cruise is another highly recommended, cuisine-centric activity. Guests are welcomed aboard with a bottomless glass of champagne and then invited to devour a scrumptious buffet—a variety of appetizers, classic American breakfast dishes and divine desserts. During the cruise, guests are treated to live music and invited to partake of the stunning views and ocean breezes from the top deck. Post-cruise, plan to spend some time exploring Fisherman’s Village, which hosts free live concerts weekends on the plaza and also features retail shops, eateries, and the Marina del Rey Historical Exhibit & Gallery.
(clockwise from far left) Marina sunset; Deluxe Guest Room; parasailing; and waterfront pool. Photos courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey (hotel), and Courtway Can (environment).
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Outdoor enthusiasts have a plethora of activities to choose from too, including on-the-water activities such as SUP, kayaking, parasailing, boating, sportfishing, gondola tours, and more. The UCLA Marina Aquatic Center offers sailing, rowing, surfing, kayaking, and windsurfing classes to both locals and short-term visitors, too. Yogis might also like to try a trendy workout that includes a yoga class on a stand-up paddleboard at YOGAqua. Landlubbers can rent bikes at Fisherman’s Village and explore the 22-mile Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail (also known as “The Strand”), or opt for a stroll through Burton W. Chace Park, a 10-acre, waterfront green space that also makes an ideal picnic spot. The popular Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series, held annually at Burton W. Chace Park, features live performances of pop, alt-rock, folk and classical music. For those desiring an eco-adventure, Ballona Wetlands includes 600 acres of protected habitat, highlighting hundreds of plant species and birds. A public walking trail runs along the perimeter, and docent tours are available as well. With The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey’s convenient location and luxury accommodations, not to mention delicious cuisine and abundant water-based adventures, L.A.’s sparkling coast shines ever brighter. Marina del Rey’s moniker translates to “Harbor of the King,” and one will certainly feel akin to royalty while enjoying the Westside’s premier waterfront playground this summer. VisitMarinadelRey.com
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Bucket-List Books No matter one’s nomadic inclinations, be it for a local beach or foreign shore, explore travel and transport and with these new tomes
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THE ITALIAN DREAM: WINE, HERITAGE, SOUL
MARILYN IN MANHATTAN: HER YEAR OF JOY
by Gelasio Gaetani d’Aragona Lovatelli and Aline Coquelle
by Elizabeth Winder
Who doesn’t dream of Italy? With The Italian Dream, Assouline has published the most ravishing and richly depicted reverie of all. From the towering Alps to the rolling hillsides of Tuscany and beyond, this love letter to one country’s heritage, and the entire world’s fascination with it, is beyond compare. An intoxicating concoction of all that is covetable about Italy—from art and architecture to food and families—the volume is infused with a convivial tone that dares one to la dolce vita at home or abroad. $85.00, Assouline.com
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OCEAN LINERS: GLAMOUR, SPEED AND STYLE by Daniel Finamore and Ghislaine Wood Booking passage on an ocean liner— once the grand-dame of travel—meant wayfaring stem-to-stern in decorative splendor with equally ornamented travelers. Now, this new book—a companion to an exhibition at the Peabody Essex Museum—provides an aspirational glance of the golden age of oceangoing, from the shipping companies and ambitious booking offices to how the floating palaces they promoted were engineered, configured to class, and marketed. High seas, indeed. $65.00, V&A Publishing, AbramsBooks.com
In Elizabeth Winder’s tribute to tent-poles of American culture Marilyn Monroe and New York City, readers follow the megawatt movie star as she flees the frustrations of Hollywood for a new identity in New York. In one magical year, she shakes off a stereotype to romance Arthur Miller, take to Truman Capote and bury herself in books. It’s a story rarely told of Monroe—one of happiness and independence; a woman coming into her own. In doing so, she made decisions that forever changed the course of her comet-like career. $27.99, Flatiron Books, US.MacMillan.com
Photos courtesy of Assouline, Bloomsbury, Flatiron Books, RizzoliUSA.com, V&A Publishing/Abrams
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WRITTEN BY JENN THORNTON
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ITG - Print LUXEMBOURG: HISTORY, LANDSCAPE, AND TRADITIONS
ORIENT EXPRESS: THE LEGEND OF TRAVEL by Sixtine Dubly
by Stéphane Bern Th is luscious look at a too often unheralded landscape reveals the holdovers of a heritage 1,000 years in the making, including UNESCO World Heritage Site ruins and ramparts. The landlocked Luxembourg, which shares a border with Germany, Belgium and France, is also one of the most picturesque places in Western Europe, where history, culture and nature form a fascinating pictorial of a country celebrating centuries of tradition through a variety of riches today. $40.00, Flammarion, RizzoliUSA.com
HAVANA: A SUBTROPICAL DELIRIUM by Mark Kurlansky Taking the pulse of multifaceted Havana, New York Times best-selling author of Cod and Salt, Mark Kurlansky, achieves an electrifying rhythm with his latest— an energetic and thoughtful travelogue he peppers with cultural history and poignant observations of a resurging colonial city. Included is a miscellany’s worth of material that coalesces into an extraordinary soup—a work that is, like the city at its heart, vibrantly alive. $26.00, Bloomsbury.com
One can imagine Grace Kelly in all her glory aboard the glamorous Orient Express—she was, after all, part of an exclusive class of traveler who enjoyed this luxurious mode of transport immortalized by the likes of Agatha Christie. New from Assouline, Orient Express: Legend of Travel is a journey into a rarefied world of elegant, Art Deco allure. Illustrating a story that dates back to 1883 are the book’s 150 photographs; together they demonstrate what it must have been like to ride of the rails of an eminent engine bound for Constantinople—a passage of such refinement as to seem fictitious. Only this tale is true. $85.00, Assouline.com
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CALENDAR
MUSIC + ART SAN DIEGO
THE OLD GLOBE THEATRE: KING RICHARD II
Through July 15
At San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre, a production of King Richard II launches the 2017 Summer Shakespeare Festival. Robert Sean Leonard (of TV hit House) stars in the title role of the ruler, whose acts of recklessness provide an opening for the shrewd Henry Bolingbroke to seize the crown. Directed by Erica Schmidt at the 620-seat Lowell Davies Festival Theatre (the Globe’s outdoor venue), Shakespeare’s poignant and insightful play is sure to delight fans of the Bard.
SANTA ANA
BOWERS MUSEUM: FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT: ARCHITECTURE OF THE INTERIOR
June 24 through August 20
High-quality reproduction drawings of interiors, furnishings and household objects are showcased in Frank Lloyd Wright: Architecture of the Interior, which focuses on some of the lesser-known aspects of the revered architect’s designs. Wright’s approach to visual enrichment as “organic ornamentation” is explored through the architect and designer’s celebrated spaces and objects found within.
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Artist Bruce Burr
photo courtesy of Festival of Arts
ITG - Calendar
(from top) Edward E. Boynton House, Dining Area, Rochester, New York, 1908. Photograph. © Paul Rocheleau. Frederick Bogk House, Carpet Design, 1916. Photographic Reproduction. Courtesy of The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Archives (the Museum of Modern Art | Avery Architectural & Fine Arts Library, Columbia University, New York) Drawings Copyright © Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Scottsdale, AZ
LAGUNA BEACH
FESTIVAL OF ARTS/PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS
July 15 through August 31
Laguna’s renowned Pageant of the Masters ( July 7-August 31) celebrates its 85th anniversary this summer, and the theme for this year’s show of tableaux vivants, “The Grand Tour,” takes inspiration from continental travel and its connection to great art. Also noteworthy, the Festival of Arts debuts a major renovation project this season, including new layouts for the art exhibit area. The juried festival features 140 Orange County artists, in addition to guided art tours, workshops, live music, and more.
+ THEATER
WRITTEN BY BETH FHANER
LAGUNA BEACH
LAGUNA ART MUSEUM: PHIL DIKE: AT THE EDGE OF THE SEA
Through September 24
Laguna Art Museum hosts a rare exhibition of Phil Dike’s oil and watercolor paintings, on view in June. Curated by Janet Blake, the first comprehensive museum exhibition in over 40 years of works by Philip Latimer Dike (19061990) features 75 pieces, many depicting the artist’s love of the sea, as well as his more abstract work. An influential member of the California regionalist movement of the 1930s and 1940s, Dike also co-founded the Brandt-Dike Summer School of Painting in Corona del Mar in 1947, along with fellow artist Rex Brandt.
ITG - Calendar
Virginia Dwan at the exhibition Language III. Dwan Gallery, New York, 1969, photograph by Roger Prigent, courtesy of Dwan Gallery Archive
LOS ANGELES
LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART: LOS ANGELES TO NEW YORK: THE DWAN GALLERY, 1959–1971
Phil Dike, Wave Echo, 1972, watercolor on paper, 21-1/2 x 29-1/2 inches, The E. Gene Crain Collection
Through September 10
LACMA reveals the legendary history of the Dwan Gallery and dealer and patron Virginia Dwan through an exhibition of paintings, sculpture, films and drawings. Founded by Dwan in Westwood in 1959, the leading Avant-Garde space of the ‘60s was considered an influential gallery of the postwar period and featured innovative exhibits by Franz Kline, Claes Oldenburg and Robert Rauschenberg, among others. In 1965, Dwan opened a second space in New York City.
COSTA MESA
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS: FUN HOME
August 1-6 Larry Rivers, Maquette for Larry Rivers Exhibition at Dwan Gallery, 1961, collage of cut-out text, paint, and tape on gelatin silver photograph, 14 1/8 × 12 1/4 in., collection of Virginia Dwan, © Estate of Larry Rivers/Licensed by VAGA, New York, NY, photo: Tricia Zigmund
Fun Home, the groundbreaking Broadway musical, makes its OC debut at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in August. Based on Alison Bechdel’s bestselling graphic memoir, Fun Home portrays the coming-of-age journey of protagonist Alison (at three different ages) as she attempts to understand and connect with her enigmatic father. A hit with critics and audiences alike, the refreshingly candid and original musical won five 2015 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
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IN THE GLOW
A Diamond Affair Proprietor of Winston’s Crown Jewelers, Glenn Verdult, together with wife Michelle, offers a first-class shopping experience in Newport Beach AS TOLD TO WENDY BOWMAN
ITG - Wintson’s When and how did you first develop a passion for jewelry and under what circumstances did you decide to pursue it professionally?
My passion started at age 15, when I worked for my uncles in their second-hand jewelry stores. We dealt with all pre-owned merchandise. I learned the value of buying and selling at an early age, dealing with anything from guitars and stereos to fine and estate jewelry. In what way is your earlier work an asset to what you do now? My earlier work taught me various skills that are key to keeping the business successful. Because I started working and was taught what hard work was at such a young age, being an active, hands-on business owner is what I am today. When and where did you open your first store and how has it evolved?
At age 19, I opened Costa Mesa Jewelers, and operated the store for 11 years. After that, I sold Costa Mesa Jewelers and acquired Winston’s 36
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Jewelers on Newport Boulevard. Then Winston’s Jewelers built our new Winston’s Crown Jewelers in the Mariner’s Pointe Plaza here in Newport Beach. Describe the experience of shopping at the store and how its environment enhances this feel.
The shopping experience is first-class. All clients are warmly welcomed upon arrival. Most of our staff have been here for years, and in turn, are very knowledgeable and helpful. Our clients have a relaxed yet regal, fun experience at our store filled with museum-quality pieces. Talk about the range of jewelry the store offers. What brands do you carry that resonate with your clientele? We have two stores full of inventory. I like to say there’s something for everybody. We carry a huge inventory of large diamonds to all colors of semi-precious gems, and an extensive pre-owned luxury watch selection. The brands that resonate with the clientele are Rolex and Cartier.
WINSTON’S CROWN JEWELERS 100 W. Coast Hwy., Suite 101 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.642.5000 WinstonsCrownJewelers.com
ITG - Wintson’s Elaborate on the store’s base. Who shops at Winston’s and what is their core concern? The clientele we get want the best quality for the best price. What is Winston’s signature?
We specialize in large diamonds. What are some of the most amazing pieces you currently have in your inventory?
Some of the pieces that I find the most amazing are the larger, rarer stones—a Colombian emerald suite, a 30-carat diamond to a 100-carat tanzanite. Describe how Winston’s custom design business responds to the market.
We always have people coming in who have seen something in a picture somewhere that we can re-create for them with the help of our master designers. Our master designers are savvy to the quickly evolving fashions.
Where do you glean inspiration for your designs? One of my biggest inspirations for the custom designs is from my wife, Michelle. Our passion for jewelry and being unique lets us work together to come up with one-of-a-kind designs.
How has jewelry design changed over the years? Jewelry design always changes, but vintage looks always circulate back around again and become the hottest trends. Our master designers help us keep our customers satisfied with creating the designs they love best. Are events a large part of your business?
Events have become part of what we do at Winston’s Crown Jewelers. Winston’s sponsors and donates to more than 30 charities in Orange County. We also host philanthropic events at our new Mariner’s Pointe Plaza in Newport Beach. What are the most creative and also the most extravagant things you’ve done for an event? One of the most creative things we do for an
Michelle & Glenn Verdult
event is host it at our Mariner’s Pointe Plaza location, and totally transform the property into a red-carpet affair with a VIP Cabana. What are the hottest trends in jewelry now?
More modern and simple things are the hot thing right now. For example, rings that have thin dainty bands accented with diamonds all the way around the finger. Wearing different color golds together is in too—the yellow, rose, white gold combination is popular. How have you been able to maintain your business success all these years?
I can say our business has remained consistently successful through our whole team’s perseverance and hard work. What’s next for Winston’s?
Winston’s has been branching off in our involvement in different charity organizations throughout Orange County. What’s next for us is finding more ways to better our community.
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SUNGLASSES Warby Parker Eastman Sunglasses in Crystal Sable with Flash Mirrored Blue Sky Lenses $95, at WarbyParker.com
STYLE
Full Bloom
DRESS Rachel Pally Pascall Dress Print in Agave $251, at RachelPally.com photos courtesy of Temple St. Clair, Warby Parker, Tommy Bahama, Roger Vivier, Tory Burch, Tiffany/Carlton Davis, Courtney Beckett and Voluspa
In
NECKLACE Temple St. Clair 18k Flower Serpent Amulet with Rock Crystal, Royal Blue Moonstone, Blue Sapphire, Tsavorite and Diamond $19,500, at TempleStClair.com
CURATED BY ANNE MACK
Spring may be behind us, but petals and blossoms are always in season. Spruce up your wardrobe for summer with a dash of florals. The sunny season may be the hottest time of the year, but there is no need to break a sweat to look cool, calm, and collected. BROOCH Tiffany Daisy Brooch with Diamonds, Spessartites and Tsavorites in 18 karat White and Yellow Gold at Tiffany.com
SWIMSUIT Tory Burch Batik Floral Top and Bottom in Samba Batik Flower $95 each, at ToryBurch.com
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ITG - Style CANDLE Voluspa Embossed Glass Scalloped Edge Candle in Crane Flower $20, at Voluspa.com
SHOE Roger Vivier Podium Guipure in White Leather $1,325, at RogerVivier.com
BAG Tommy Bahama La Jolla Tote $228, at TommyBahama.com
HONOR STRENGTH EQUITY |
|
The attorneys of Phillips Whisnant Gazin Gorczyca & Curtin, LLP are dedicated to upholding the highest professional standards in the practice of family law. We serve as powerful advocates for clients facing a range of family law matters, yet always conduct ourselves in an ethical, honorable, and measured manner. Our unwavering allegiance to our clients is apparent in our diligent pursuit of their best legal interests and our acute sensitivity to privacy concerns in every case, and particularly in high profile and high net-worth cases. Consistently honored as a Best Law Firm by U.S. News & World Report, the firm is recognized for having outstanding credentials and an impressive performance history.
Phillips Whisnaut
Alimony
Alternative Divorce Options Annulment Business Ownership/Valuation Child Custody Child Support Cohabitation Agreements Collaborative Law Community Property/Separate Property Domestic Violence Fiduciary Duties High Asset Divorce Legal Separation Marital Dissolution Mediation Paternity Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements Private Judging Retirement Plans/Pension Plans/IRAs Spousal Support ▼
24 Corporate Plaza Drive, Second Floor, Newport Beach, California 92660 | T: 949 644 4007 F: 949 644 6296 | PWGGC.com
Eclectic, by Design
White Lilac
White Lilac cultivates a new brand of boutique at South Coast Plaza WRITTEN BY JENN THORNTON
W
hite Lilac, a design company celebrated for its individually stylized settings, is bringing its brand of curated eclecticism to Costa Mesa with the opening of its spacious new showroom at aesthetic equal South Coast Plaza. “The brand provides the shopper with a unique vantage point on how to style their home in an entirely unique way,” says White Lilac President Sunny Ravanbach. “White Lilac is a mix of quintessential comfort and luxury, with hints of modern touches to make any home a reflection of the creative souls who make [it] their own.” Hence, the boutique’s inspired—and inspiring—visual feast. It’s a beautiful mixture of merchandise that, together, cultivates an upscale, beach-cottage vibe, with all items flowing together in signature White Lilac style: seamlessly. The chicly arrayed assortment includes furniture from White Lilac’s custom line along with classic fittings. These elements mingle with vintage French pieces, modern accents, an array of lighting, original artwork from European artists and coveted accessories, from candleholders to stemware and more. Purchase something haute off the showroom floor, or place an order for a piece in a particular fabric or style. Many finds are one-of-a-kind. So too, happily, is the shopping experience. WHITE LILAC South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol Street Costa Mesa, CA WhiteLilacInc.
Capturing Southern California’s
MASTERS of TRADE D E S I G N + B U I L D | H E A LT H + W E L L N E S S | B U S I N E S S | C H E F S + R E S TAU R A N T S
Masthers - Intro
photograph Robert Richmond
Mary Triesman (left), President and Co-founder Brett Baer (middle) and COO and Co-founder Jaime Morse (right) of Halston Home
AUSTIN KNIGHT JOHNSTON At only 30 years old, the founder and CEO of AKJOHNSTON Group already is renowned for creating world-class marketing and event experiences
and passions. My approach was, and still is, nonconventional. While others are planning and brokering to vendors, we actually own audio; lighting; video; staging; flooring; print, metal, wood and specialty fabrication; trucks; and in-house design and production teams. These resources and assets are here in our building and exclusively dedicated to serving and supporting our clients and shows. This process and approach supports high-quality, low lead times and tight budgets when we are able to orchestrate the departments for each project. For a clearer and historically tested model, we run like a movie studio, with various departments handling a particular vertical with their own assets and teams, with crossover in the logistics and planning processes, to deliver impeccably. What did you do before? Is there any crossover from your previous work that you apply to this business?
I could tell you I have done this before, but my most valuable experience was actually gained in high school while working as a barista at Starbucks. About a year ago, even, I worked with Orin Smith (former CEO of Starbucks, current Chairman of Disney) and told him that I am successful
Masters - Austin Johnston launch
of
I was 21 and had just left a great-paying job, but I was tired of long construction projects for theme parks. I realized then that I enjoyed live production projects that were really three-to-six-month design and ‘construction projects.’ So, I set out to use the equipment I had kept from my first lighting business and made some serious sacrifices to try and get clients. Some had followed me, and I was working with them, but most were uninterested in 2008, as budgets for this industry had all but disappeared. I think I grossed $40,000 that year (about half of what I needed to break even) out of Public Storage units and I moved back in with my parents— humbling, to say the least. So, with no money and no clients, I did what business owners don’t do enough: I looked for 42
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the weaknesses in myself, my brand and my company to see what improvements or enhancements I could make to ensure that the business would one day thrive and have clients lined up for our premium expertise and experience. The logic behind naming the company after myself was that I wanted to put my personal signature on the quality of work and service we deliver. Thus, AKJOHNSTON Group was born and barely crawling for the first four years of its life. What is the group’s primary focus and how does it function?
Today, we produce world-class experiences that are designed, directed and executed by our firm. Experiences we create are as conventional as corporate events and trade show booths and as nonconventional as international music tours, PR stunts and marketing functions that showcase brands
“
The logic behind naming the company after myself was that I wanted to put my personal signature on the quality of work and service we deliver. Thus, AKJOHNSTON Group was born and barely crawling for the first four years of its life.
”
photographs by Dhrumil Desai
What prompted the AKJOHNSTON Group?
Entrepreneur
AKJOHNSTON Group + bask offers you the theatrical moment to take guests on a journey to connect in new ways that are memorable. These stories can be short or long, and are told with spaces, elements, lighting and sounds that we get to create over 500 times per year. It’s shockingly complex and hard to get tired of. Talk about the service package that AKJOHNSTON Group offers clients. In what way is it unique to their needs?
We compete in a crowded space of companies with similar capabilities—but we execute it all in house. When clients see 35,000 square feet of equipment, fabrication and our creative departments here, it’s like being on the Universal Studios tour! How extensive is the group’s portfolio? Which projects are among the most interesting and challenging of those it has completed thus far?
I wish we did not have non-disclosure agreements, but I can tell you about some stuff you can see today. We just launched the Toyota Mirai; create The Chainsmokers’ arena tour scenic; handle everything for Irvine Company and Hoag Hospital; we finished a cat-shaped, shag carpeted ‘Kitty Pool’ for a client; and we built a mini-golf course of dead technology for Amazon in Las Vegas. So, yeah, those are some of the crazier ones that you can see right now in public. Truly, every project is challenging, and if it is not, we usually decide to make it challenging by adding some special piece that has not been done before to every event or element, large or small.
Masters - Austin Johnston today because of the workplace he created. It was there that I got my first production by following Starbucks’ ‘Connect, Discover and Respond’ customer service protocol. I also learned that my employees are partners or my team, which is how I always refer to them… and I really figured out how to connect with people and how a quality, consistent and fast product can be enhanced by a smile and a great experience. In my world now, we call this ‘experiential marketing,’ which is all about brands listening and responding to customers in memorable ways…really, the simplest idea, but difficult to master.
the company while growing about 200 percent per year, and with no debt. The success of this company is due to the success of our clients and their acknowledgment that we helped build their success. I have always said, ‘good work speaks for itself,’ and I have to think the panic attacks and lack of sleep thinking about ways to deliver better have helped this be a reality. The best and worst quality I have that ties to this point is that I really care, and my team really cares. That will really mess you up in the head though. It’s not something that you can turn off, and when something does not go perfectly, it can really be rough.
How did you go about building your business to where it is today?
What is your specialty and how do you leverage this expertise at AKJOHNSTON Group?
Well, I did not have a business partner, investor, loans or even credit cards for the first seven years, and we still have not marketed
Our expertise is telling stories. Brand stories, cause stories—every event and activation
When not working, what are some of your outside interests that help inspire what you do professionally?
Trick question, since most of my downtime is spent thinking about work projects. But, a weirdo hobby I have that I very much suggest is to go to hip hotels and order a drink at the lobby bar, then just watch people. Have the bartender make you whatever they feel is best, with no direction, and just get a feel for the time, space, music, vibe, and people.
AKJOHNSTON GROUP 533 South Rose Street Anaheim, CA 92805 866.212.2192 | AKJohnston.com baskmagazine.com
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HALSTON HOME From home staging to luxury leasing and interior design services, this expert trio at Halston Home are innovating the marketplace with their dedication to customization and hospitable, collaborative spirit
For clients who’ve experienced this, we love to show them how our staging services can sell their home in two weeks, for over the asking price. Describe a time when a home you staged sold quickly and achieved a maximum return.
BAER: It happens every day. The most systematic study of staging conducted recently found that staged homes garner a 5 to 7 percent higher sales price, and staged homes sell 17 days faster than unstaged homes. Staging is becoming the standard for how homes are being sold in this competitive market. Who is the typical Halston Home client, and in which areas do you work? How long have you been in the staging business, and how has it evolved? BRETT BAER: I’ve been staging homes since 2004. In its nascent period, staging was simply putting whatever furniture one had access to into a home. Over time, the level of expectation grew dramatically; initially toward a fuller look and then to architecturally specific furniture. In the last few years, this bar has been raised higher; now the expectation is for the furniture to be as fashionable as clothing, and updated as regularly. Artwork is no different; clients expect current, globally sourced work—something they may have seen at Art Basel, for example. At Halston, we’re evolving as well. Because we own the largest (and most advanced) custom furniture manufacturing facility in the U.S., we’re able to customize pieces to better fit our staged homes, while keeping an eye on quality and delivering quickly. Simply put, we control the process from start to finish, while other companies traditionally rely on an ever-changing army of unnamed sources to support their business and fill their homes.
stand out from every other listing. This is why our manufacturing facility is so important to our clients and our success. Additionally, we’ve seen that staging has reached a critical mass. It’s no longer just for high-end properties, but properties at all price points that see the value in staging. There’s tangible evidence that properties, both small and large, will sell nearly 17 percent faster if staged.
BAER: Our typical clients are realtors and developers, with frequent outlier clients in spaces such as museums, film, and commercial spaces. TREISMAN: Halston’s typical clients run the gamut from celebrities and highend developers to agents, brokers, and families who all see the tremendous value that home staging provides. We work with clients throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Francisco. Soon we will be expanding to the East Coast and internationally.
Masters - Ceremony Home
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BAER: Staging creates a more emotional, passionate buyer. People are aspirational when they’re purchasing a new home, and being able to imagine one’s self living in an environment is a powerful memory that will stand out among the 10 [to] 30 homes they’ll visit. TREISMAN: We’re not just filling a home with furniture, we’re telling stories. A welltossed throw or an endearing collection of children’s book[s] left out—all selected to reflect the region and architecture of the home—creates harmony, what everyone is looking for in a home. A white box (empty room) can’t do this. Although staging is becoming more common, people traditionally sell their homes ‘as is’ or empty, and as a result, a home often stays on the market for months and sometimes a year later than expected.
What does staging a home involve? Describe the process.
BAER: It varies from client to client. There are circumstances in which we’re told, ‘I need the home staged in 72 hours. Go!’ Luckily, we have a full warehouse to pull from, and the team loves the rush of these jobs. Other clients are more involved in the process and are looking for a more collaborative experience. Halston Home also offers interior design and luxury leasing. In what other ways does the firm differ from competing staging companies?
BAER: We have a client-centric approach, which changes most aspects of our company—from the process, to the conversations, to the furniture. To stay on trend, we buy in small batches, and we buy daily. This helps our concepts to
photograph by Robert Richmond
MARY TREISMAN: I have been in the staging business for almost 10 years now. The biggest change I’ve seen is that clients no longer want a ‘cookie-cutter’ approach; they expect unique, custom furniture, art, and accessories to make their property
Can you elaborate a bit more on how staging a home helps expedite its sale?
Entrepreneur
Halston Home + bask
COO and Co-founder Jaime Morse (left), President and Co-founder Brett Baer (middle), and Mary Treisman (right)
Masters - Ceremony Home continuously evolve and never repeat. We also manufacture locally, in Los Angeles, where our high-end manufacturers work together in an innovative, streamlined system that results in custom, high-end pieces that are made better and faster. You simply won’t find this level of dedication to the craft coming from other staging companies. We encourage clients to stop by our J. Alexander Showroom in Beverly Hills so they can see the quality for themselves. TREISMAN: Halston differentiates itself in several ways. First is our ability to offer custom furniture, accessories, and artwork that won’t be seen in any other listing. If the buyer is inspired by the furniture and interiors we stage, they can conveniently purchase the entire collection, or parts of the collection, with or without the home. Since working with Halston, I’ve seen this happen more than anyplace else. We call this service ‘Instant Home.’
Additionally, we are laser-focused on hospitality and customer service. The joy in what we do comes from making a client’s life easier during what is often a stressful time in their life—the buying or selling of a home. At Halston, every client will have one dedicated expert to work with—someone who is intimate with the space being sold and understands the vision of both the seller and designer assigned to the project. We take pride in knowing that not only will homes sell faster with our staging, but people can take back their time and energy while we handle what we’re best at—selling homes with inspired staging. Where are your favorite local places to buy staging items, and why? BAER: My favorite places are run by my favorite people. Brock Mayeux of Landlocd learned to build furniture 20 years ago in North Carolina and Louisiana. He builds anything we can think up in his Venice shop.
Carlos Navarro pours these extraordinary candles in Guadalajara, Mexico. I’d say we have roughly 50 passionate venders and builders we’ve gotten to know over the past 15 years. We take great care of these craftsmen and women because we know their passion will come through in our homes. TREISMAN: J. Alexander. What should we expect after hiring you?
BAER: Once your staging is complete, to call me back in two weeks to schedule a move out. Our staged homes sell fast! TREISMAN: VIP treatment, with a handson approach, and working as a team to achieve maximum quality and design. HALSTON HOME 319 S. Robertson Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90048 323.348.1551 | HalstonHome.com baskmagazine.com
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DR. ANNE MARIE FINE This Newport Beach-based doctor, award-winning researcher, best-selling author and highly sought-after national and international speaker focuses on natural medicine and beauty from the inside-out
How and why did you enter the field of integrative medicine?
I discovered integrative medicine in my 20s, which completely transformed my health. I had seen multiple doctors for my own chronic health problems that had followed me from childhood into adulthood, and no pill or drug or surgical procedure seemed to do the trick. Then I discovered how powerful changing my diet and lifestyle could be! Not only did specific symptoms vanish, but I felt overall healthier and more energetic! I wanted to give others that opportunity and free them from their persistent health problems, too. I eventually left my successful career as a financial executive and went to medical school so that I could change other people’s health and lives as mine had been changed. I call this the practice of transformational medicine. I went on to formulate my own line, called the IAMFINE Pure Skin Collection, which is available at my practice at Wdowin NMD—an integrative, antiaging, and regenerative medicine clinic located in the heart of Newport Beach, or on my website at drannemariefine.com. I also recently wrote a No. 1 international bestseller called Cracking the Beauty Code: How to program your DNA for health, vitality and younger-looking skin. In my book, I demonstrate that genes are not our destiny and highlight the scientifically proven, best practices for turning your beauty genes on, and turning down the genes that contribute to aging and poor health.
What is your philosophy of how you work as a doctor?
My approach to both health and beauty is that our bodies are intelligently designed to be healthy and have the ability to heal and self-correct if treated properly. When you eat naturally, live naturally, spend time in nature and put natural products on your skin, your body will function better and healthier, and this will be reflected in your skin, which is simply a reflection of your health on the inside. What I have learned in my 17 years of practicing medicine is that your health is your real wealth and it is created from the inside-out! The modern epidemic of autoimmune diseases and chronic illness that we see today responds beautifully to my treatment philosophy. In my practice, I seek to restore full and vibrant health by discovering the underlying cause of problems—I don’t just treat specific symptoms! I focus strongly on Environmental Medicine as the next paradigm shift in medicine is recognizing that environmental toxins are everywhere (our homes, food, air, personal care products); build up in our bodies; and contribute to nearly all chronic illnesses, including autoimmune diseases and cancer. Increasingly, studies show that skin can absorb toxins from personal-care products, which are often formulated with harmful chemicals, and those toxins cause health problems and premature skin aging. This is what compelled me to formulate my own line of non-toxic, anti-aging skin care products. My products are raw, vegan and
gluten-free, and no fossil fuels or solvents were used in the extraction of my organic seed oils. As the Director of Education for Naturopathic Academy of Environmental Medicine, I bring together the leaders in this field to teach the new generation of physicians about these concepts. This is a fast-moving movement in medicine that is gaining ground for successfully treating the new crop of illnesses related to our modern, technological, industrial lifestyles. I also use bio-identical hormones, nutritional therapy, IV therapy, recent advances in genomic and epigenetic (the environmental factors that result in particular genes being expressed or not) medicine, and personalized detoxification protocols to promote optimal wellbeing, avoidance of disease and anti-aging results. My practice seeks to unlock true human potential by optimizing health, and goes far beyond just looking good—it promotes feeling good, too! Beauty and wellness are intertwined. In my practice, nutrition, beauty, fitness, spirituality and emotional well-being combine to enable us to live our best lives!
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What unique therapy do you bring to the world of natural medicine and beauty?
What inspired you to launch Fine Natural Products? What was the vision and how has it evolved?
Years ago, I was confronted with escalating autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (an epidemic in my practice), chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia in nearly all of my female
photograph by Tony Florez
I use a high-tech, FDA-approved medical device called Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) that speeds healing and also functions as a non-surgical facelift. FSM is energy medicine that works by the concept of biological resonance. FSM is my secret weapon in both health and beauty. I have had great success using it for pain, peripheral neuropathy, adrenal rejuvenation, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, disk problems, lung conditions, liver detoxification, brain fog, PTSD, insomnia and facial rejuvenation, among other things.
Entrepreneur
Dr. Anne Marie Fine + bask children. Even our babies are being born prepolluted with their cord blood containing pesticides, flame retardants, heavy metals and ingredients found in personal-care products. They are exposed in utero to mom’s toxic environment and often pay the price in their own health challenges. Botanical beauty is hot and on trend as consumers become more educated and aware about what ingredients to avoid and also what the health and environmental impacts might be. A recent survey of American women showed that 54 percent of them said that it’s important that their skin-care purchases are all natural. I carefully sourced my ingredients from my global travels, where I searched for the most effective, plant-based ingredients to work their magic on the skin. The IAMFINE Pure Skin Collection features two products: Youth Serum and a Purifying Mask. The Youth Serum is a concentrated blend of organic seed oils (blueberry, pomegranate, cranberry, pumpkin), potent and rare skinrejuvenating essential oils and vitamins that deeply moisturize and rejuvenate the skin, resulting in glowing, younger-looking skin. The Purifying Mask addresses the environmental pollution that each of us literally faces every day that has been shown in recent studies to accelerate aging and age spots. The Purifying Mask has been dubbed the ’15-minute facelift’ for its fast effects on lifting and toning the face, while also pulling out toxins from the skin.
Masters - Dr Anne Marie Fine patients. Through research, I discovered that toxicants in personal-care products were contributing to this, and women, of course, use far more personal-care products than men. When I looked for non-toxic, anti-aging products for my female patients, I was shocked to find out how much ‘green-washing’ existed in this space. Many products contain harmful perfumes, preservatives or other additives that have been shown to contribute to health problems. While I started with only my IAMFINE Pure Skin Collection products, I soon realized that physicians simply weren’t educated in this overlooked source of chemicals in their patients. So, I started speaking on this topic (endocrine disruptors in personal-care products) at medical conferences all over the world. This was so well-received that I decided to go straight to the consumers and developed an online course called ‘The Beauty Bluff: It’s not you, it’s your personal care products poisoning you,’ to deliver the material in an
easier-to-understand format. I expanded on this idea and recently published my bestselling book, and I am currently working on another online course for women called The ‘IAMFINE Protocol for Beauty and Wellness,’ which will represent my lifelong commitment to unlocking both the secrets and the science of aging beautifully. Discuss the importance of using organic, botanical and vitamin-based skin-care products. What are the benefits one can expect to achieve?
The quality of what you put on your skin is of paramount importance due to dermal absorption of some of the ingredients. Some of these ingredients, called endocrine disruptors, get into your blood stream and cause hormonal disruption in your body. This is why there is so much hormonal imbalance in our patients, affecting even younger people and contributing to premature puberty in our
What motivates you?
I have a deep passion for natural medicine that stems from my own nearly miraculous results from using it to overcome my own intractable health issues. I love helping people overcome illnesses that they were told they just have to live with, and I also love helping people in a more preventive way to avoid disease and to be able to live a fully optimized life that they love in a body they adore. I bring a new dimension of personal attention to all of my patients and provide tailored, compassionate and insightful medical care.
DR. ANNE MARIE FINE 2121 E. Coast Hwy. Suite 210 Corona del Mar, CA 92625 949.891.1693 | drannemariefine.com baskmagazine.com
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HADLEY OLIVIA LUXURY MATTRESS SHOPPE Hadley Olivia Luxury Mattress Shoppe CEO Ronnie Lane offers his customers the ultimate in comfort and luxury
How did having your first child inspire the name and mission of your mattress company?
When I opened the luxury side of my business, I wanted to give it a name that was unique and had meaning. The family and I consulted and decided that my daughter’s name— Hadley Olivia—was the perfect new name. We are family-owned and -operated, and she will possibly take over one day as the future CEO. When my wife Natalie and I found out we were having our little girl, we started shopping around for a crib mattress. I was very disappointed in some of the mattresses that were being sold in the furniture stores. After extensive research, I discovered that OMI and Hastens had natural crib mattresses that gave great support and had none of the carcinogens and chemicals that were present in the other mattresses.
Describe the company’s approach to customer service and how it enhances the process of selecting the perfect mattress. Our customers are the most important part of our business. We try to go above and beyond for our customers. We truly want them to be completely satisfied, which is why we offer our ‘90-day’ comfort exchange policy. We understand that it is difficult to choose a mattress in the short time you spend in our showroom. Sometimes, the perfect mattress is picked, and other times, once home, our customers decide the mattress is not comfortable. The most common mistake people make is picking a mattress that is too firm; once they get it home, they realize they actually need a softer mattress.
What type of mattress do you own and why?
My wife and I sleep on a Hastens Mattress. This is a high-quality mattress, and I enjoy the comfort and luxurious feeling. I personally sleep on the mattresses that I sell so I can tell our customers about the feel of the mattress and what I personally enjoyed about the different brands. I truly love the luxury of the Hastens Mattress.
Masters - Hadley Olivia
What makes for a luxury mattress and how do the materials in your mattresses put it in the luxury category?
It is basically in the materials used to make the mattresses and the process used to put them together. The luxury beds contain materials such as cotton, wool, horsetail, mohair and latex. Some of these mattresses are meticulously built by hand. These are all natural materials, with no chemicals added. They give the bed its unique feel and comfort. Most North American beds have memory foam on the top layers of the mattress. Memory foam is not a natural material, it is man-made and has an off-gassing odor that contains carcinogens. 48
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To get the best mattress, what are the key questions all consumers should ask during the selection process?
What type of support does the mattress have? For example, if the customer is a side sleeper, they will need to know if the mattress has a comfort layer that will make their hips and shoulders comfortable. Choosing a mattress is very selective. Everyone has different pressure points on their bodies, so one mattress does not fit all. You need to try a minimum of three to four different feels to determine the one that your body finds the most comfortable. What accessories do you sell to complement your mattresses? We carry a full line of mattress protectors, sheet sets, down comforters, down pillows and duvets.
Talk about the importance of having a proper mattress. What is its impact during and after sleep?
You need the correct support and comfort to obtain a good night’s sleep. A good mattress will allow you to get into a deep REM sleep so your body can rejuvenate and prepare for the next day. If you toss and turn all night, you never get into the deep sleep that your body needs to get proper rest. You will wake up with backaches and a tired feeling, even after you think you have slept all night. How long should a mattress be kept? What are the signs it’s time to shop for a new one?
A mattress should last between eight to 20 years. The best way to tell if you need a new mattress is to ask yourself if you are waking up feeling as good as you did when you first purchased it. If the answer is no, then it’s time to replace your mattress. Describe the optimal sleeping conditions.
A cool, dark room with no television on. You really need a calm and cool area for optimal sleep.
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Hadley Olivia Luxury Mattress Shoppe + bask
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After extensive research, I discovered that OMI and Hastens had natural crib mattresses that gave great support and had none of the carcinogens and chemicals that were present in the other mattresses.
Masters - Hadley Olivia
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photograph by Tony Florez
Ronnie Lane with his wife, Natalie, and their daughter, Hadley Olivia, in his San Juan Capistrano showroom
HADLEY OLIVIA LUXURY MATTRESS SHOPPE 31896 Plaza Drive, Sute C5, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 949.454.8000 | HadleyOlivia.com baskmagazine.com
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JULIE LAUGHTON This design-build dynamo handles the remodeling process from start to finish
Tell us about some of the homes you’re working on right now.
All of the homes are older remodels that are being completely transformed inside with lots of help from my structural engineer. I use a lot of steel, so I can take out walls and do open plans. More than half of the remodels are undergoing complete exterior makeovers with new outdoor living spaces and landscaping. Describe your clients—and how do you think they would describe you?
My clients are passionate about their homes and know what they want, but don’t know how to achieve it, nor do they have the time. They describe me as a very creative and talented person with a vision, who can see the end result before they see it. They also admire the speed at which I work at and my efficiency, which takes out all of the stress for them. I am constantly being called ‘Johnny on the spot.’ And my clients know that I am always available to them. As a true one-stop shop, there is very little for the client to do after the job starts, and they very much appreciate me handling the stress of the remodel for them.
Masters - Julie Laughton Discuss how the design-build industry has evolved since you started in the field. What is the most significant difference, and how have you adapted?
I think the biggest thing is that I have evolved as a designer by becoming a general contractor. In doing so, I have been able to streamline the process for the client and quickly realized this is the best thing that could be done for a client overall. My clients have the luxury of only talking to me and not five other people. For example, the traditional way of working would be the client engaging in back-and-forth conversations with the other team members they have hired, such as the architect, interior designer, kitchen designer, landscape architect and general contractor. The traditional way is still frustrating and there are many ways to improve it, but it all starts with a good plan and working with quality people. 50
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How does your background in commercial design influence your residential work?
My background in commercial design made me the true professional I am today. It gave me professional business experience at an early age. I learned how to perform under the guidance and direction of some of the top people building in New York City at the time. What are the most memorable projects you’ve designed and built and why do they stand out for you?
The most memorable are the historical ones, like the Wallace Neff home in Pasadena. I did research and worked with multiple craftsmen to duplicate several vintage details. My other favorite type of job is a typical mid-century home where I can blow out the walls and do any style the client wants, which gives me total freedom to create the finished look.
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I wear my orange ostrich cowboy boots for a reason…because I spend a lot of time in the dirt at the job site. This girl from Iowa still has to maintain some kind of style while she is performing her duties in the design-build world.
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Julie Laughton + bask
Masters - Julie Laughton How elaborate is your artistic process—do the ideas come easy? How do you know if an idea will ultimately make for a great design?
The ideas come easy for me. I see the space’s potential immediately. It’s like the space talks to me when I walk into the home. Then I just have to execute it all and engineer it. Once the plans are drawn to scale and the materials are picked, the design just sings to me and it feels right. How hands-on are you when it comes to the building portion of your business? I am 100 percent hands-on. As the old saying goes, ‘The devil is in the details.’ Nothing gets done without my approval. As far as my overall company, I handle my own marketing, I take every initial phone call from the client personally, and I am the only one who meets and communicates with the client throughout the project. I personally draw all of the plans, create all of the design details and select all of
the materials. I work with my engineer oneon-one so he’s clear on what I want, and I am clear on my options before the plan is drawn. Then I permit the job at the city and run the job personally from conception to completion on a daily basis. I wear my orange ostrich cowboy boots for a reason…because I spend a lot of time in the dirt at the job site. This girl from Iowa still has to maintain some kind of style while she is performing her duties in the design-build world. What are the spaces and architecture that have had the most impact on your own work? The Art Deco era for its style, and my love of all architecture in general.
What design and construction trends are you seeing right now?
The trend is the use of cleaner lines and easier maintenance, but all still done in a warm, organic style. For example, I am using a lot more porcelain flooring that looks like wood.
And I am using manmade solid surfaces more often than I am using natural stone slab such as granite and marble. Describe your dream property.
A Dwell-like modern, cube-shaped house with all glass on one side overlooking a vast open view of either the mountains or the desert and no other houses in sight. What’s your favorite part of your home?
It’s the fact that I didn’t use white paint anywhere. All of the colors I used are warm grays and natural earth tones, which create a very soothing environment. I also have a fantastic view of rolling green hills outside the rear of my home, which is like an Impressionist painting. JULIE LAUGHTON 28885 Woodspring Circle Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679 714.305.2861 | JulieLaughton.com baskmagazine.com
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KITCHEN EXPO When it comes to giving clients the attention, time and energy that each and every individual deserves, Kitchen Expo leaves no stone unturned
the entire home. We usually begin in the kitchen with a client and work into other rooms as they become familiar with us, build their trust in us and believe in our credibility. We’ve designed, and built, everything from bathrooms, libraries, wine storage units, entertainment centers, dining rooms, living rooms (millwork) and bedrooms to outdoor kitchens. Our expertise in millwork has no limit. Who is your clientele?
We tend to deal with discerning clients who appreciate top-quality, long-lasting products that are unique in the industry. That said, we offer a variety of products that can suit a wide range of tastes and budgets. What is the Kitchen Expo signature? How would we recognize your product?
We are known for our use of curved cabinetry, exotic veneers and high-gloss finishes that rival the highest-quality furniture manufacturers. I created a door style for those who want something unavailable anywhere in the world. It is a five-piece door system that allows the client to choose any veneer species, color, stain, or look they want. I use many curves with this door style, as it enhances the beauty of the veneer and gives a rich,
Masters - Kitchen Expo RICK FAHMIE What led you to begin designing and building furniture when you were just 12 years old? Describe your designs at the time.
I was in wood shop in junior high school and my mom wanted a new coffee table. So, I decided to design and build it for her. After I finished staining this piece of furniture and was proud of how it turned out (she still has it after 40 years!), I was hooked and knew what I wanted to do as a profession. When and how did you decide to enter the design, remodel and construction business?
After spending 10 years building furniture and kitchens, and remodeling homes, I knew it was time for me to enter the design and construction field. I found a position installing kitchens with a local remodeling firm, which in just a few years led to me 52
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leaving the ‘field’ to pursue design of kitchens, baths, room additions, etc. How has your company evolved to where it is today and in what ways has it helped set the standard for the industry?
Through hard work, dedication, finding (and keeping!) San Diego’s top design/ install talent, and striving to create unique designs utilizing materials from all over the world that most people haven’t seen before. Kitchen Expo has always been a leader of design and creativity in the industry and, we believe, like many, that ‘following’ in our footsteps is, and will always be, a form of flattery. Despite the name of your business, you work on more than kitchens. Talk about the range and focus of your work. Yes, we are general contractors and can do everything from concept to completion for
“ We are known for
our use of curved cabinetry, exotic veneers and highgloss finishes that rival the highestquality furniture manufacturers.
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Kitchen Expo + bask
Do you have a favorite—or extravagant— project that you’ve completed?
Yes, a 4,500-square-foot condo at the Yellowstone Club in Montana. We had an ‘open slate’ to work with, as only the outside walls were in, so we designed every part of this condo. I designed six homes for this client all over North America. Upon completion, our client put the condo on the market. When the inventor of ‘Wi-Fi’ saw it, he said he had to buy this home because the millwork, stone work and ceiling detail were truly like nothing he’d ever seen before. Can you tell me a little about how one of your redesigns can help increase a property’s value, especially when it comes time to sell? A few years back, a gentleman came to me explaining that his house had been on the market for a while but wasn’t selling. The overall comments were the kitchen was outdated and needed remodeling. Apparently, no one could see what the potential was. He didn’t want to put any additional money into the home but asked if I’d be willing to look at it, design a stunning kitchen for it and produce a colored rendering of it to have in the kitchen for potential buyers to see. I did just that, and he sold the house—based on that design!
Masters - Kitchen Expo
When you’re not working, you are…?
furniture-like look to any kitchen. It is a ‘transitional’ style—between traditional and contemporary—but very warm due to the use of beautiful, exotic veneers. I named the door ‘Brielle’ after my beautiful daughter, who has a very exotic look about her yet is ‘timeless.’ It has become one of our most-loved door styles. What other attributes of your business make it singular in its space?
Probably first and foremost at this juncture is our longevity in the business—one location, started ‘from the ground up’ as a family mom and pop business, and we’ve been here for 34plus years now. Another is the fact that we have always taken great pride in the people who work for us, as they are an integral part of our ‘family,’ and as such, represent the company. Quite often we are in the clients’ homes for three to six months (sometimes
longer based on the complexity of the project) and we absolutely want our clients not only to feel comfortable, but trusting of those in their homes. We’ve even had clients go on vacation during their remodel and they have asked us to take care of their rabbits for them! Talk about the details a homeowner can expect from a Kitchen Expo product and experience.
Again, we’ve been in the business for 34-plus years, so our expertise goes way back. I search the world over for unique, high-end products that we can stand behind as a company. From the very first visit with the client—whether in the showroom or in their home—they are given the attention, time and energy that each and every individual deserves. No stone is left unturned, if you will. We guarantee lasting quality, beauty, function and life to whatever product(s) our clients choose.
I love keeping busy! I’m either waterskiing, bike riding, snow skiing, on my motorcycle, or ‘tinkering’ around the house. It’s virtually impossible for me to be idle! I also enjoy cooking in my ‘Brielle’ kitchen with friends and family, enjoying the backyard pool and spa that I designed, house boating on Lake Powell, and art and unique architecture. What does the future hold for Kitchen Expo?
Now that we have our own cabinet line, we are looking to expand it all over North America. I am currently talking with some investors to make this dream a reality.
KITCHEN EXPO 7458 La Jolla Boulevard La Jolla, CA 92037 858.456.0050 KitchenExpo.com baskmagazine.com
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LAGUNA FITNESS Health and fitness guru Cora Kasperski opened Laguna Fitness in the seaside town of Laguna Beach 15 years ago, and has never looked back. Now, she’s moving the business into a brand-new space right down the road, complete with a new class for your “boom-boom.”
I think the key is what hasn’t changed. We help people get results through personalized, one-on-one focused training. Sure we have fun here, but there is nothing more fun than looking in the mirror and liking what you see. Tell us about the new location.
We are already in our new location at 1999 South Coast Highway, at the corner of South Coast Highway and Diamond. If you drive by, you can’t miss us. There is a huge photo of me in the window. Former body-building champion Shawn Ray has even signed up to train with me at the new Laguna Fitness. He is a former champion of the 1991 IFBB Arnold Classic, a top-tier event. Importantly, he placed in the top five at the Mr. Olympia competition for 12 consecutive years, from 1990 to 2001, two of those being first runner-up finishes. In signing up, he said: ‘You [Cora] are just what I need to get me off the couch!’ He has been retired for several years and is now ready to find his way back to fitness. Has your intention with the new location changed?
Masters - Laguna Fitness CORA KASPERSKI
I was born in the Philippines, and while health was always important in my family, fitness wasn’t a part of our culture. My first husband was a Marine and he took me to the gym and taught me the basics of weight training. I wouldn’t be here without him or my friend, Yoli, who was the first girl I saw with muscles. I wanted to be like her. When did training become a career path; what ultimately compelled you to pursue fitness professionally? I was doing other things, but always had the idea of being a trainer in the back of my mind. I was living in Laguna Beach when a gym full of equipment became available. I did what it took to make that happen, and that was my start. 54
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Talk about Laguna Fitness. Why Laguna Beach?
Laguna Fitness was my dream come true, and Laguna Beach is the most beautiful place to live in the world. I feel blessed to be doing what I am doing in my very own gym, here in Laguna Beach, surrounded by the water and my friends. What all does Laguna Fitness offer?
We offer personalized training of all sorts, with a special focus on weight or resistance training, cardiovascular fitness and diet management. You have to have all three to get the results you want. It takes time and discipline, but people get results at Laguna Fitness. I guess that’s why I am still here after 15 years. How has Laguna Fitness evolved during its 15 years in business?
As a business, we have expanded and gotten bigger, with more clients and services. But
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We offer personalized training of all sorts, with a special focus on weight or resistance training, cardiovascular fitness and diet management.
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photographs by Tony Florez
What first drew you to fitness—have you always been passionate about health and fitness?
In what ways will it differ from Laguna Fitness? We offer a couple of new classes during the weekend. Our most popular is Bootay&Bubbles, a super-focused class on your boom-boom. We work very hard, but it
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Best motivational tips?
Work out someplace where it is easy to laugh and have fun while you give it your all. We have a lot of fun here. We work hard, yes. But we laugh hard, too. Take us through a sample diet/fitness regimen. They are all different, because I customize them to each client. But basically, I ask you to eat five times a day and rotate your workout so that you are lifting and doing cardio five or six times a week. You can have one day of rest. How big does mentality factor into fitness— both in your work and in your life?
People think I am a bit of a discipline freak, but it is the only way to succeed. Let me put it to you this way: I love Monday, because that means we are back at it. I hate having days off. Weekends screw everything up! What is the one fitness question that you’re consistently asked?
For women: ‘How do I get a rounder, boom boom?’ For men: ‘How do I get better abs?’
Masters - Laguna Fitness
In watching your clients work to achieve better overall health, what have they taught you? I learn from my clients every day. The most important lesson is that everybody wants to be at their best, and anything that keeps you from your best needs to go. Never lose sight of the things that matter most.
Cora Kasperski assisting her client, Andrea Keilholz, at her new Laguna Beach gym
is fun, and at the end of class, everybody has a couple sips of champagne. Sometimes, we then go grab a healthy lunch too. It is our own version of Sunday Funday! You’ve worked with a lot of clients in your personal training career. What separates people who get the best results from those who struggle to attain the same success? Discipline and consistency. A lot of people come to me with the best intentions, but those that do the work and learn how to say, ‘no,’ to certain habits in food and alcohol can really progress quickly. If you don’t follow those
What is the biggest reward of your work? How do you approach challenges?
simple rules, you will not see the results you want. Describe your approach in working with clients. What are your most effective tools in helping clients reach their goals? I love and adore my clients. I give them all of me, and if they give me back the effort I ask for, we usually become great friends. My best clients are here two to three times a week, and they put in other time when they are out there living their lives. You need to do something every day to keep yourself fit.
My biggest reward is seeing people reach their goal. It is so exciting for me and for them. We are a team, and I win every time they look in the mirror and smile. It also feels good when clients come back to me after taking time off. And when noted fitness celebrities ask for my help. In addition to Shawn Ray, Terry Hairston, a former Mr. America, is also training at Laguna Fitness. That is exciting for me and it makes me feel good being around people who are doing their best to get fitter, one work out at a time.
LAGUNA FITNESS 1999 South Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.939.2672 | LagFitness.com baskmagazine.com
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Masters - OMG “ Everyone on staff is an
expert in one area of our practice. We are continually educating and researching the latest technologies to provide the best procedures possible.
OMG OC AESTHETICS 5140 Birch Street, Suite 100, Newport Beach, CA 92660 877.775.7546 | OMGSkin.com | Annette.Marie@OMGSkin.com 56
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photograph by Tony Florez
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OMG OC Aesthetics + bask
Entrepreneur
OMG OC AESTHETICS As managing director of OMG OC Aesthetics, beauty and spa industry veteran Annette Richardson called on her extensive entrepreneurial background to open a medical spa offering a one-of-a-kind, concierge-type experience
When and why did you decide to open a medical spa. And why choose Newport Beach as the site of your business? In 2010, I opened One Medical Group, Orange County, aka OMG OC Aesthetics. I choose Newport Beach as our flagship location because I considered it to be my home right after college.
Therefore, our methods involve transforming the skin to restore youth and vitality. We are pioneers in creating protocols and procedures that are non-invasive, yet highly effective in the patient’s transformation.
How do you feel when you know you’ve helped transform a client’s life with your services?
From practitioner to practice, describe the primary differences between a plastic surgeon and a medical spa.
What trends are you currently seeing in the medical spa industry? Any treatments available that we might not know but should?
Confirmation that I’m on the right path. When you love what you do for work, you know you are coming from a place of ‘purpose.’
Masters - OMG
How did you first develop a passion for this line of work? What did you do before that compelled you in this direction?
My passion developed from first having postadolescent acne, which drove me into research. That inspired my fascination with anti-aging and all that went with it. What, specifically, is a medical spa and how does OMG differ from others in the same category? My definition of a ‘medical spa’ is a facility where you can use non-surgical procedures and products to improve the aesthetic of the patient’s face and body in a spa environment. At OMG, we pride ourselves on giving our patients better treatments and better customer service than most provide. The overall experience is very important to us. We enjoy what we do and it shows. Talk about the mantra, the methods and the area of specialty at OMG. Currently, ‘Project Ageless’ has been the mantra. We believe youth has no age.
Actually, we combine both with our practice model. Our medical director is an amazing surgeon who provides fat transfer, hair restoration and stem cell therapy for regeneration. By combining practices, our patient outcomes are mind-blowing. Who is your typical client?
Anyone, male or female, who wants a positive improvement with their eyes, skin, body and life. How many experts are on staff at OMG, and what standards do you insist they meet?
Right now in our industry it’s all about nonsurgical fat reduction and the female ‘V.’ What we have expanded to is stem cell therapy. This is taking age management to a whole new level. We use stem cells to regenerate the patient’s own cells to grow hair, rebuild joints and for life-changing health. W hat is your advice when it comes to self-care? It’s all about balance and moderation. We have to first take care of our own self before we can properly take care of someone else.
Everyone on staff is an expert in one area of our practice. We are continually educating and researching the latest technologies to provide the best procedures possible.
What is new and next for your business?
What is the most common treatment requested, and why?
When you’re not working, you are…?
Here, the most common treatment requested is our Laser Eye Tightening. I believe it’s due to the fact that both men and women have concerns with the aging of the eye area. It’s all about the eyes!
Expansion. Going global would be nice. Everyone needs an OMG experience in their lives. My belief is when you are doing what you love, work becomes an integrated part of your life naturally. Business aside, you can usually find me at Thousand Steps Beach in Laguna Beach, having brunch with my close friends or being an unpaid Uber driver for my kids. baskmagazine.com
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PURE ELEMENTS WATER As president and CEO of Pure Elements Water, longtime entrepreneur Rick Allen has made it his mission to enhance water quality with custom, environmentally sound solutions
technologies as they become available and proven. All of this, combined with superior customer service, has catapulted our company to our current position as an industry leader. What cornerstones of your business do you credit with becoming a renowned leader in the water treatment industry?
In 1981, my companies pioneered the Options Programs for water systems to be offered as upgrades by production homebuilders through their design centers. We have designed and installed high-end luxury estate home water systems costing more than $120,000 for discerning clients with special properties, and have more than 80 estate home systems in Newport Coast alone. Pure Elements Water is the only company providing systems that solve Total Property needs, benefiting the home, pool, water features and landscape irrigation. When focusing on health, we have special systems designed to address fluoride and other hard-to-remove toxins. We have spent years learning what is eating copper pipes in Southern California and around the country, and are the only experts regarding preventing pinhole leaks in copper plumbing. Pure Elements Water has been 100-percent successful for nearly 10 years in stopping leaks caused by chemicals in our water. This is true even in homes that have experienced multiple leaks in the past. We accomplish this without the cost and disruption of re-piping or epoxy lining processes. Our team continues to monitor health-related concerns about re-piping with PEX plastic piping and epoxy linings, suggesting that homeowners faced with pinhole leaks thoroughly research their options. Our systems cost less than the alternatives, stop the leaks and also provide exceptional water quality throughout the home.
DIANNE & RICK ALLEN When and why did you decide to start Pure Elements Water? What was the overall intention?
This is my third company; I started my first one in 1979. In the past 40 years, I built and sold two water treatment companies before starting Pure Elements Water. We have been continually adjusting to changes in the economy, homebuilding market, water quality, health education and technologies. Our primary goal has always been to provide a healthier home living environment for everyone through water quality enhancement. In following this path, we have become intimately involved with both custom and production homebuilders, the health and wellness community, and of course, the current homeowner. We integrate the latest and most innovative total property approaches to addressing water quality 58
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issues throughout the home, pool and irrigation systems. We are unique because we custom design our systems based on each client’s specific water quality—we are definitely not a generic, one-size-fits-all company. In addition, all of our systems are environment-friendly. Describe your approach for building your business to where it is today.
Our approach is simple. We provide an affordable way to enjoy a healthier and more convenient home lifestyle for people locally and across the country. The Pure Elements Water staff researches each municipality (and provides testing for wells) so that we can solve the existing water quality issues with custom-designed systems. We also work to protect our planet by providing innovative, exclusive technologies that are environmentally sound. An important aspect of our business is a focus on emerging
Tell me about the services Pure Elements Water provides. How do you assess a household’s water quality?
We provide whole house and Total Property water systems. In determining how to design a custom system, we assess water quality with a thorough analysis of municipal Consumer Confidence (Annual Water Quality) reports, lab testing and
photograph (left) by Tony Florez
Masters - Pure Elements
Entrepreneur
Pure Elements Water + bask and Property Management, which manages short-term and vacation rentals for highend coastal properties. Recently, Dianne was appointed as Director of Health and Wellness for Pure Elements Water, working with health and alternative care professionals who are referring clients as part of their regimen for optimum health. Apparently, we both like to keep very busy! What trends are you currently seeing in your industry?
Water quality is getting worse. Disinfectant levels are increasing (chlorine and chloramines); they have gone up nearly tenfold in the past 10 years. There is a reliance on PEX plastic tubing to replace copper pipes, but there are major trending concerns about offgassing, chemical leaching, biofilm growth, and recently a concern about resistance to today’s chemicals in our water. The water treatment industry in general is becoming a me-too, Internet-driven business selling onesize-fits-all systems that do not address many of today’s specific water quality problems. As products become cheaper with this massmarketing approach, the consumer suffers. Most standard systems will not address the array of problems found in household water, as this varies greatly by area and supply.
Masters - Pure Elements visible issues inside the home. We then design and quote the system, fabricate to our specifications, install or ship the system, and provide start-up and programming (or consultation, if out of state). How do you work with homebuilders and contractors to ensure the utmost in water quality?
Our systems are available in many of the production homebuilder’s projects through their design centers and plumbers. We also work with the finest custom homebuilders and their plumbers to design and install unique systems for each client’s personal needs. All systems are designed for the specific application, owner’s desires and water-quality issues. Describe your other endeavors and how these involvements energize you in the business realm. We really are an entrepreneurial family. I
have been playing music in bands since I was 12 years old. My current band, Pinch Me!, is a five-piece group that plays locally in clubs and for charity/corporate events (with an occasional wedding). This band has been together since 2003, with a few personnel changes. We are featured at major events around town, including the Corona del Mar Christmas Walk (this will be our ninth year), Lobsterfest, and in the past the Balboa Island Parade After Party. Pinch Me! has a heart—we have played at many charity events, including Walk Now for Autism Speaks at Angel Stadium and the Rose Bowl, Down Syndrome, Mr. Irrelevant, Cure Duchenne and Semester at Sea. I am passionate about music, and it feeds my creative side. It is a great stress-reliever. My wife Dianne is an entrepreneur as well. She is a well-respected Realtor for Provenance Realty Group in Laguna Beach. She also owns California Vacation Rentals
When it comes to water, what must we do to ensure longevity for both Southern California and the planet?
We need to be aware! Bottled water is a real blight on the planet. Forty billion plastic bottles end up in landfills and millions end up in our oceans, and it takes up to 1,000 years for them to break down. In addition, plastic bottles can leach chemicals into the bottled water that mimic liquid estrogen, which has been related to many types of cancer. People need to recycle, take control and treat their own household water; find ways to save water in water features and landscaping; and pay attention to water trends in their area.
PURE ELEMENTS WATER LLC 2503 Eastbluff Drive, Suites 206 B&D Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.644.1800 PureElementsWater.com | StopPinholes.com baskmagazine.com
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REJOY INTERIORS
Do you have a specialty or signature you’re known for?
As owner of Rejoy Interiors, Rejoy Marsella combines strong design principles and style to create luxurious spaces that perfectly capture the vibe and essence of her clients
My work always feels joyful, clean and elegant, but I’ve intentionally stayed away from being pinned down to one ‘signature’ style. I’ve worked on so many different types of projects, including traditional, transitional and contemporary. My ultimate goal is to create spaces that capture the vibe and essence of my clients, so you’ll find that my work varies from home to home. Honestly, the greatest compliment I’ve heard over and over again is, ‘Finally, my home is so me now!’ Who is the Rejoy Interiors client?
I design for clients that live full, rich, busy lives. They work hard because they value a high quality of life, not just in their home, but in their work, personal relationships, physical well-being, everything. My clients want to come home every day to a space that feels artfully, personally and beautifully curated, but they don’t have the time or expertise to create the look they truly desire.
Masters - Rejoy Interiors
What is your design philosophy?
“ I truly believe
that when your home feels authentic and beautiful to you, it affects your life on every level.
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When and how did you first develop a passion for interior design? I remember designing my very own Barbie dream house when I was five years old. I asked my grandmother to buy me one of those pink plastic houses. Instead, she responded with ‘Why don’t you make one?’ and handed me a cardboard box. I spent hours designing that little house! I wanted it to be special, so I remember drawing on the walls to create the illusion of wallpaper. I used drinking straws and tape to make curtain rods and hung tissue paper as drapery panels. I’ll never forget the feeling of just using my imagination and playing… being completely lost in creating. On that day I fell in love with designing and I have loved interior design ever since. ‘Thank you, grandma!’
From where do you draw inspiration? I’m inspired by nature all of the time! Even while driving, I can see a beautiful sunset and start putting together a gorgeous color scheme in my head. Or I’ll walk along the beach and notice how the colors harmonize on the inside of a seashell, or remember the textural look of rocks against the sand. You’ve appeared on television. What did that involve?
That was one of the most fun and intense experiences of my life! I was invited to design for a TV show called Merge with Lisa Rinna. Every episode, we would work with newlyweds who
photographs by Tony Florez
REJOY MARSELLA
I truly believe that when your home feels authentic and beautiful to you, it affects your life on every level. When you walk into a really thoughtfully designed room, you feel this deep sense of pleasure, peace and enjoyment. I don’t just make rooms look pretty, I allow my clients to experience their home, family and friends on an elevated level. I see my work transform lives.
Entrepreneur
Rejoy Interiors + bask
Masters - Rejoy Interiors had radically different tastes, and Lisa and I would have to ‘merge’ their two homes while they were away on their honeymoon. It was incredibly fast-paced, and we had very limited budgets. I have to say, it exercised my creative brain in ways that design school, or even other real design projects, never did. I found that having lots of restrictions actually set my imagination into over-drive. It was a lot of fun! What are some design trends you’re seeing right now? Light and bright is so popular right now! Most of my clients are asking for white or very light wood tones for their cabinetry. The lines of furniture have gotten cleaner and more contemporary. My favorite look right now is ‘organic contemporary’—the lines are clean and minimalistic, but the overall
feeling is very warm and inviting because it’s inspired by nature. Your single best piece of advice for a new designer is…?
One of my biggest designer inspirations, Barbara Barry, once said, ‘Do everything you do with love.’ It sounds like a cliché, but the more I think about it, the more I really believe it’s the key to success. To be good at anything in life, we have put our whole heart into it. When you’re loving what you do, your creativity just works for you. So, if you’re not feeling the love, think about why, or try a different approach. What elements should be in every welldesigned room?
I think that a room can follow every design rule and still not be complete until it has something personal in it that brings you joy.
It could be a souvenir from a vacation, a piece of art you love looking at or a photo of a loved one. Your space has to be beautiful and well designed for you—it has to be uniquely yours, or it never feels quite right. What’s next for Rejoy Interiors?
I’m incredibly excited right now because I’m in the process of creating an eco-chic candle line. Beautiful interiors tantalize two of our senses—visual and tactile—but our sense of smell is so powerful. When you add the luxury of an exquisite scent to a space, it blissfully elevates the experience. REJOY INTERIORS 949.679.2824 - OC 424.293.0231 - LA info@rejoyinteriors.com RejoyInteriors.com baskmagazine.com
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TONY FLOREZ PHOTOGRAPHY Respected worldwide in his field, this Corona del Mar-based photographer calls on influences from fashion and photojournalism to fine art to create show-stopping images
When did your passion for photography become a true calling? My passion for photography came in seventh grade, when I lived in Pennsylvania, [and] my best friend got a camera for Christmas. That’s when it all started!
In what area do you specialize and who are your clients?
I love doing any photography that has an artistic touch to it. I love shooting with my girlfriend, LeAnn. She is an amazing lady, and shooting together has been so much fun. We do a lot of different shoots, and it is so much fun to be able to create art with our cameras.
What are some of the most interesting and unique events you’ve captured through the years?
I have done a lot of fun things, from a private party on an Island in Fiji to photographing Rob Zombie’s wedding in Hancock Park. I was filmed for a TV show on the Golf Channel that highlighted my photography, using Pebble Beach as the location for the shoot. Photographing George Lopez’s wedding was a lot of fun; he is a very interesting guy. I have several private celebrities I work with, and I do a lot of fashion photography as well. There have been so many interesting things that have happened throughout my career.
Masters - Tony Florez
Do you remember the first photograph you took? Describe what that moment means to you now. I can’t possibly remember my first photo, but I can tell you I was always so amazed with the fact that I could capture a moment in time.
Who were the mentors who helped you reach this point—and what was the most important thing they taught you? I had several mentors in my photography career. David Peters and Monte Zucker were two of my favorites. The way David looked at life and translated [it] into his work was amazing. He had a way of working with natural light that told a story with all of his images, and I’m truly blessed to know this man. Monte also was amazing, with so much life and love in all of his work. He was a master with lighting, and created stunning images with the way he used his lights. I have been so fortunate to work with so many great photographers along the way. I love the [O]ld Hollywood portraits and Herb Ritts’ images. I have been inspired by so many different artists. 62
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Describe your photography style, and why you adopted this approach.
I have always been one to push myself in everything I do. My style is probably best defined by others. I love to take pictures, and something magical happens when you get in the flow with your camera and go for it. It’s so fun to do, and it amazes me how important some of the pictures become as time goes on. What inspires you creatively?
Is photographing celebrities different from shooting other subjects, or is your approach always the same no matter who is in front of your camera?
Good question. I have always been a creative guy. This is part of who I am, and photography has been the vehicle to bring it out. I have always enjoyed art, and being involved at such a young age with photography really inspired my creativity and vision.
Everyone I photograph is so different. Celebrities are all the same to me. When it’s time to shoot, it’s game on; let’s rock and roll.
What photographer compels you to do your best work? Who has had the most influence?
Fiji and Rome were some of the farthest shoots I have been on. Photographing the Colosseum in Rome for one of my celebrity clients was awesome! I chose to photograph them at night. The stone walkways were wet, and that added an artistic element to my images.
Herb Ritts. I love his work, and he also directed the Chris Isaak video Wicked Game. He was an amazing artist, and he was very inspiring to me as a photographer.
How far have you traveled for a photography shoot and to what lengths would you go to get the perfect shot?
Entrepreneur
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Photograph what makes you happy and inspires you. Put your heart and soul into something and you will be so happy with your results.
” Speaking of, is there a particular photograph you’ve taken that you’re especially fond of? If so, why?
Photographing my children in Kauai was one I really enjoyed. We had so much fun shooting together in paradise!
Masters - Tony Florez
You teach workshops in your Corona del Mar studio. What is your single best advice to students?
Photograph what makes you happy and inspires you. Put your heart and soul into something and you will be so happy with your results. What do you make of the selfie movement? Has it has hurt or helped the art of photography? Selfies are fun! I think people will always appreciate art. The selfie movement also has inspired me; it’s always fun to take pictures whenever you can!
What do you do when you’re not working; do you take photographs for pleasure?
I am a real estate agent for Surterre Properties, and I love selling residential real estate and working with Surterre. It is so fun for me to be able to use my photography and marketing ideas to sell my listings. It is an amazing business. I so enjoy helping my clients from my photography business find a home or sell their home. It gives me a lot of joy to be part of their amazing life events again. I also love to work out at the gym in the morning. I work hard on keeping myself in the best shape possible so I can enjoy another beautiful day in my life.
Tony Florez with LeAnn Skeens
TONY FLOREZ PHOTOGRAPY 2852 East Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, CA 92625 949.644.1158 | TonyFlorez.com baskmagazine.com
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FACES + PLACES
Starlit Soirée On a gorgeous eve, Island Hotel, Newport Beach welcomed 450 guests for the CHOC Glass Slipper Guild’s 23rd Annual Gala. Aptly titled “Gala Under the Stars—Making Dreams Come True” the shimmering scene was suitably set from start to finish. Guests were greeted with an elegant cocktail reception, where sparkling high-top tables, the sounds of a live guitar and custom cocktails provided the perfect opportunity for conversation. As the ballroom doors opened, a space resembling a starry night sky was revealed. Here, guests enjoyed a sumptuous meal and heard from two immeasurably important members of CHOC: Doctor Leonard S. Sender of the Hyundai Cancer Institute and Ruth McCarty of the Complementary Integrative Medicine Center, who welcomed the year’s patient honorees. Ending the evening on an inspiring note, Lizzie Boyle shared the uplifting story of how CHOC saved her daughter Ella as she battled an aggressive form of cancer.
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(Clockwise from top) Nicole Hall, Jenny Williams; Guests with CHOC mascot CHOCO Bear; Guests; and Leonard S. Sender. Photos courtesy of Werkit Photo.
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Pure Delight A lively party was already in full swing as more than 370 guests entered the Island Hotel, Newport Beach for CASA of Orange County’s annual Celebration of Children: Black & White Ball. Evening festivities began with a 007-themed cocktail reception, silent auction and high-stakes casino games. Following this festive welcome, attendees made their way to the ballroom to relax and enjoy a sumptuous meal and memorable program. Co-chaired by three couples that support the organization—Dana and Tom Chou of Irvine, Michelle and David Fisher of Laguna Beach, and Susan and Dennis Leibel of Irvine—the evening featured a touching tribute by “Advocate of the Year” and CASA volunteer Andrea Schoembs, who shared her story of the trials and triumphs her nine-year-old CASA child faces, and a Keynote Speech from Judge Maria Hernandez. Once again, CASA proved a true champion of children.
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(Clockwise from top) Kathryn Seebold, Lisa Kassel; Michael & Lauren Wong; Lourdes Nark; Jaynine & Dave Warner; Tyler Olbres; Lisa & Dan Kassel; Andrea & Jeff Casaw. Photos courtesy of John Watkins Photography.
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F+P - PSO Sweet Notes The sounds of glasses clinking, corks popping and troves of luscious wine being poured filled the Island Hotel in Newport Beach for a palatepleasing evening at the 10th annual Pacific Coast Wine Festival, benefitting the Pacific Symphony. With offerings spanning the globe—from the Bordeaux region of France and Tuscany, Italy to Spain and South Africa to Sonoma and Napa Valley— there was no shortage of sensational wines for the event’s 300 eager oenophiles to imbibe while perusing the silent auction items on display. As the evening wore on, the doors to the ballroom opened, revealing a scene resembling the picturesque grape orchards of the world. After entering, those in attendance found their seats and indulged in a decadent wine-paired meal while enjoying a rendition of Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” performed by a Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra alum. Once again, the festival proved a feast for all the senses. (Clockwise from top) Tim & Alissa Lomakin; Tyler Olbres, Ethan Kay, Nina Kay, Jane Lee and Ben Kwon; Naomi & Brian Pollack; Joann Leatherby, Cyrus Parker-Jeanette; Sam & Susan Anderson; Hope Miller, Charlie Zhang, Ling Zhang; Wendy Salter, Elizabeth Salter, Carl Langfeldt, Amanda Salter, Fred Salter. Photos courtesy of Nick Koon Photography. 66
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F+P - JDRF Magic Moment With the stars seeming to shine a little brighter in the night sky, nearly 500 guests headed to The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Dana Point for JDRF Orange County Chapter’s 2017 Dream Gala, benefitting type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. The evening, themed “Make Type 1 Disappear,” began with a cocktail reception where guests enjoyed on hors d’ouevres and specialty drinks. Soon after, the doors of the ballroom opened and attendees took their seats for dinner while co-chairs Christina Jenkins, Maria Schechter and Dick Allen paid special tribute to the evening’s honorees, Tracey McCarter and Ellen Darling, for their contributions to Orange County’s T1D community. Along with dancing, there was a demonstration by Justin Willman, host of the Food Network’s hit show Cupcake Wars, a magician and a comedian known for his appearances on the Tonight Show, Ellen and Comedy Central. As always, JDRF created pure magic. (Clockwise from top) Tamara & Christopher Tsamoudakis; Charlize McCarter, Tracey McCarter, Sydney McCarter, Josh McCarter; Anthony &Tracey DiGiorgio; Roger Hogan, Jr., Marie Hogan, Dick Allen, Wally Joyner; Chloe Dufty, Heidi Ambe; Heather & Jim Madden; Christina & Brian Jenkins. Photos courtesy of Carla Rhea and John Watkins Photography.
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Stealing the Show It was a thrilling night under the big top for the United Cerebral Palsy of Orange County’s annual Life Without Limits gala at Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach. More than 310 guests gathered for the black-tie, circus-themed affair, which raised funds for Orange County children and families affected by cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome and developmental delays, as they mingled and enjoyed a cocktail reception. Later, the doors to the ballroom opened, revealing a spectacular scene from the “Greatest Show on Earth” with vibrant décor and a dramatic aerial silk performance. Those in attendance noshed on a delectable meal as the program, co-chaired by philanthropist Jim Corbett, Kim Letch of Ernst & Young, LLP and Laura Meier of Meier Law Firm, began. Dr. Jennifer Simpson received a standing ovation as she accepted the “Individual Impact Award” for her longstanding collaboration with the organization.
F+P - Life w/o Limits
(Clockwise from top) Group from loanDepot, Ramos Family; bidder during live auction; Christy Ward, Carolyn Waltos, Bob Waltos; Anne Pachl, Stacy Barlow; Marcy Brown; Ben Griffin, Grace Griffin, JP Zoch, Jeremy Zoch. Photos courtesy of Jon Didier Photography.
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Grand Fashion It was the perfect Southern California evening, with the sky turning a deep crimson as the sun set over the slowly darkening Pacific, illuminating the oceanfront residence at 2900 Ocean Boulevard in Corona del Mar. More than 200 Orange County notables and top real estate brokers gathered at the eight-bedroom, 11-bath home, currently being listed by Adrienne Brandes of Surterre Properties, for bask Magazine and Surterre Properties’ charity event—benefitting Miracles for Kids. The oneof-a-kind shopping experience began as soon as guests stepped through the home’s grand entrance with swirling spiral staircase, continued on through the gorgeous chef ’s kitchen and newly constructed second great room, and headed straight into the ethereal backyard with gorgeous, unobstructed views of the golden coast. As those in attendance shopped and enjoyed all the exquisite styles on offer, they noshed on expertly-prepared lite bites from chef Azmin Ghahreman of Sapphire Laguna, enjoyed wines from BR Cohn Winery and chatted well into the night.
F+P - Charity
(Clockwise from top) Adrienne Brandes; Jen Mou, Jennifer Murphy, Malia Song, Cora Kasperski, Julie Laughton, Marianne De Jesus-Burke, Tom Burke, Techie Herrera; Anil Gandhi, Annette Richardson, Linda Scott, Shelly Shook, Brandi Martinez; Tim Rogers, Jacque Rogers, Lucas Lujano; Rejoy Marsella; Dianne & Rick Allen; Sonja Kotzeff, Zara Mihr, Chad Mihr. Photographs by Tony Florez.
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F+P - Imagine Pure Imagination With stars shimmering in the evening sky and inside the Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, 400-plus physicians, philanthropists and community supporters gathered at Saddleback Memorial Foundation’s Spring Gala 2017. Galaxies collided for this exquisite black-tie affair benefitting the I’MAGINE space redesign project, creating a magnificent sparkle that radiated throughout the cocktail reception. Festivities started off with a bang, courtesy of a comet-like explosion in the ballroom and a spotlight that beamed down on Saddleback Memorial CEO Marcia Manker as she delivered the program’s opening remarks. Guests then enjoyed a sumptuous meal followed by a heartfelt video spotlighting grateful patients Alan King and his wife Heidi, as well as Roy Scagliotti, who benefitted from Saddleback Memorial’s care. The evening rocketed to a close with dancing, and a special guest appearance by Deborah Lippmann. (Clockwise from top) Mark Drilling; Lisa & Jeff Hopkins; Bryce Johnson; Dorming Wong, Kathleen Sullivan; Hayley & Ian McCready; Deborah Lippmann. Photos courtesy of Paul F. Gero Photography.
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F+P - PSO Good Times The Roaring Twenties came alive with a night of glitz and glamour worthy of Jay Gatsby himself at Pacific Symphony’s 2017 Gala. More than 430 guests gussied up in their best Jazz Age attire made their way to the Hotel Irvine where they were greeted with a speakeasy-themed reception, complete with casino games, decade-inspired cocktails and a bubbling champagne fountain. As the reception drew to a close, the doors of the grand ballroom opened, revealing a dazzling scene of opulent Art-Deco décor in shades of white and gold. There, the gathering took their seats and indulged in a decadent meal by executive chef, Michael Beck. Symphony President John Forsyte and Music Director Carl St. Clair then took the stage for the evening’s program, introducing performances by Symphony musicians and a jaw-dropping aerial act. The evening ended on a high note as cannon bursts announced a festive after-party with jazzy tunes by JT & Friends and a ‘20s-era candy bar. (Clockwise from top) John Forsyte, Michele Forsyte, Susan St. Clair, Carl St. Clair; Walkie Ray, Janet Ray, Dee Higby, Larry Higby; Victoria Collins, Ellie Gordon, Liz Merage; Sam & Suan Anderson; Sharrell Jackson, Maurice Murray; Bill & Pat Podlich; Erin Gray, Scott Seigel, Leslie Seigel, Aliana Hoolihan. Photos courtesy of Joshua Sudock.
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Runway Rendezvous The lavishly decorated outdoor terrace surrounding the Westin South Coast Plaza pool was abuzz with guests mingling and talking in anticipation of The Teen Project Fashion Show Benefit. A gorgeous evening greeted all guests as they placed bids at the silent auction, visited the Style Con booth to win prizes, and picked up bespoke gift bags from Diptyque before dining alfresco on a delectable meal and indulging in sweets from the candy bar. As the sun descended, moved to the fashion show tent for a full runway show featuring The Teen Project and other Orange County models, with clothing from select boutiques at South Coast Plaza. Following, The Teen Project founder, Lauri Burns, spoke in intimate detail about her struggles growing up in foster care, while former foster youth Lauren Leeman shared her story of early struggles and later triumphs. The moment was a poignant reminder of the hope and help that The Teen Project offers.
F+P - Teen Project
(Clockwise from top) Annette Gonzalez, Nancy Vaughn, Maggie Flornes, Lauri Burns, Terri Cullen, Jennifer Blanchfield, Julie Leffler, Deborah Keillor; Jacqueline Vogel, Lauren Leeman; Lucio Martino, Irene Martino; Lauri Burns; Electra Schrock, Cheresse Pentella; Bob Miller, Aaron Sloman, Michael Schrock. Photos courtesy of Lauren Hillary Photography and Brian Knott of Forget Me Knott Photography. 72
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New Move It was a day filled with fitness, fun and long-time friends as Laguna Fitness celebrated its 15-year anniversary with the opening of its new Laguna Beach location. More than 100 visitors stopped by the gym to support the lauded mainstay, including special guest fitness champions Terry Hairston and Shawn Ray. Gym owner and fellow fitness champ, Cora Kasperski, also welcomed a host of Orange County fitness competitors, as well as her own teammates and coaches. In a touching tribute to the early days of Laguna Fitness, Kasperski’s first customer, John Fornaro (who walked into the gym 15 years ago and recently rejoined) also made an appearance. Throughout the day’s festivities, Power 106 FM kept the energy amped with live DJs and pulse-pounding music that seemed to fill the whole town with a renewed sense of liveliness. Motivating the fitness-fueled fun, many went home with raffle prizes, including exercise gear, accessories and free training sessions. Working out has never looked so good.
F+P - Laguna Fitness
(Clockwise from top) Terry Hairston, Cora Kasperski; Jeff Johnson, Malia Mackner, Jennifer Mou, Mark Douglas; Bill Morris, Todd Huschka, Clayton Daniells; Andrea & Nathan Keilholz; Darrel Conger, Cora Kasperski; Attendees. Photos courtesy of Amy Adams.
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PARADISE DISCOVERED The one and only trip you need to take this year is to the Maldives WRITTEN BY MICHELLE LYN
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH
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Feature - Maldives
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(clockwise from top left) Fanditha cabanas; Chi Pavilion; lap pool; Beach Villa with pool bathroom; Watsu Pool at One&Only Spa; and a two-villa residence with pool.
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BEYOND
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lusively located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives (pronounced mall-deeves) is synonymous with romance, often reserved for once-in-a-lifetime trips like honeymoons. The island nation consists of nearly 1,200 islands with white-sand beaches that taper off into the clearest aquamarine water imaginable. Southwest of India, a visit to the Maldives requires a trek halfway around the world, but Cathay Pacific offers a comfortable route from LAX with only one stop in Hong Kong. With a premium economy class that rivals that of a business class cabin on other airlines, the 14-hour flight to Asia passes swiftly, leaving a less daunting six-hour final leg from Hong Kong to Malé.
Despite its reputation as an adult getaway, several resorts expertly balance luxury and romance with a family-friendly ambience. The One&Only Reethi Rah is one of these properties. Upon arriving at Malé International Airport, the resort’s yacht is waiting to whisk guests off to their private island. Maldivians are naturally warm and affectionate, so don’t be surprised if staff members pick up your children and carry them onboard, repeating a mantra to relax and enjoy. A 45-minute ride on the yacht’s upper deck provides a stunning vantage point when pulling into the resort’s harbor, where staff members waving from the dock offer a regal welcome.
“Tables on the stilted deck offer unrestricted views of palm trees and still, cerulean blue water as far as the eye can see.”
unique, but with a wide range of cuisines. Tapasake serves Japanese food while guests marvel at sharks swimming below them; Fanditha is a Moroccan oasis, complete with pillows and futons on the beach to enjoy sundowner drinks; and The Chef ’s Garden is an organic garden oasis where dining takes place among orchids in the greenhouse while live music plays in the courtyard. Spending days lounging on picture-perfect beaches is blissful, but there is no shortage of activities available to while away the time either. If traveling with kids in tow, they will eagerly look forward to visiting the KidsOnly club, where staff is maternal and caring. The club has a pint-sized pool and waterslide, with plenty of room to roam under the shade of palm trees. It also offers various excursions, so one day the kids might be making sushi and the next day cruising around the island pretending to be pirates. If craving peace and relaxation, head straight to the spa, where you can meditate in the gardens, practice yoga in an overwater pavilion or indulge in an Ayurvedic spa treatment. Men can take advantage of barber services and treat themselves to some masculine pampering as well.
Feature - Maldives
The humidity is the first to greet you, but it’s no matter as a cool wet towel quickly appears alongside a refreshing glass of lemongrass juice from the butler assigned to anticipate and attend to your every need during your stay. A personal mobile phone enables guests to call their butlers at any time, for anything. While the island of Reethi Rah is only a few miles long, golf carts shuttle guests to and fro at their behest. The all-villa resort features accommodations on the beach or over the water, with villas spread throughout the property. Bicycles are available at all villas (complete with children’s seats, if necessary), in addition to beach bags and flip-flops for each guest. After settling in, a quick stroll over to Reethi restaurant reveals a stunning buffet in an enclosed, refrigerated glass room, and a superfood bar that whips up exotic combinations guaranteed to provide multiple internal and external health benefits. Tables on the stilted deck offer unrestricted views of palm trees and still, cerulean blue water as far as the eye can see. There are several other restaurants, all equally
One would be remiss to travel all the way to the Maldives and not connect with the local sea life. An onsite marine biology team provides excursions to Turtle Reef, where they explain environmental changes to the reef that can be seen while snorkeling with sea turtles. With the nation being an average of just four feet above sea level, it is very possible that the islands might be submerged in the not so distant future, so all the more reason to visit soon.
The concept of a disappearing island materializes with the Sunset Sandbar Experience, where a handful of guests are taken out to the middle of the ocean. There, just before sunset, a tiny sandbar emerges and an evening picnic is set up. Before dinner, snorkel or explore the tiny patch of land covered in coral and baby bird eggs. Perhaps one of the most thoughtful services provided by the One&Only team is a personal photography session with a photographer who will cart guests around to the most picturesque spots on the island to capture sunset shots that make for lifetime keepsakes. When the time to depart sadly comes, a large portion of the team congregates at the dock for pictures and hugs goodbye, and before long, your yacht disappears into the sea, heading back to the airport. While the journey to arrive in the Maldives may be a long one, it is but a distant memory as you reflect on what is sure to be the most magical of vacations.
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Feature - Fashion
MAKING A SPLASH Playful colors and styles naturally complete the season’s go-to ensembles from dawn to dusk
PHOTOGRAPHER TONY FLOREZ MODELS ALIZEE GALLARD & JACK CAIN, IT MODEL MANAGEMENT PRODUCER JOLIE ADAMS DESIGN AMY ADAMS STYLISTS AMY ADAMS & JOLIE ADAMS HAIR & MAKEUP BREANNA DEMAREST, BUTTERFLI ME MAKEUP & LASH STUDIO IRVINE FASHIONS SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, SOUTH COAST PLAZA LOCATION CAMEO SHORES, CORONA DEL MAR
(ON HIM) STRELLSON RED SIDNEY SHIRT AND BRAND TYLER SLIM FIT PANTS IN MARGORIS; (ON HER) ALICE MCCALL LOVE CONQUER OFF-THESHOULDER TOP AND AG SADIE HIGH RISE SHORT IN ACID WASH, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Feature - Fashion
Feature - Fashion
(THIS PAGE) STRELLSON SWEATER AND THEORY ZAINES SOFT SATEEN SHORT; (OPPOSITE) ZIMMERMANN LACED AERIAL SMOCK TOP, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Feature - Fashion
Feature - Fashion
ZACHARY PRELL DARDANO SHIRT IN PINK AND J BRAND TYLER SLIM FIT PANTS IN MARGORIS, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Feature - Fashion
Feature - Fashion
RAILS VAL STRIPE TIE FRONT CROP SHIRT AND CURRENT/ELLIOT STILETTO RAW-HEM JEANS, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
ZIMMERMAN GOSSAMER FLUTTER FRINGE LINEN DRESS, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Feature - Fashion
Feature - Fashion
APC BRODY FAUX NOIR HOODIE AND J BRAND TYLER SLIM FIT PANTS IN MARGORIS, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
RALPH LAUREN LINEN DRESS AND FIGUE SAMOA FLORALEMBROIDERED CANVAS TOTE, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Feature - Fashion
(ON HIM) TOMMY HILFIGER STRIPE TEE AND THEORY ZAINES SOFT SATEEN SHORT; (ON HER) REBECCA TAYLOR CHERRY BLOSSOM SILK ROMPER, AVAILABLE AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Feature - Fashion
Feature - Fashion
HAVEN ON HAZEL
Features - 316 Hazel
Built to perfection, this new Corona del Mar
home was a labor of love for builder/owner Makwan Yiu and notable architect Mark Teale
WRITTEN BY WENDY BOWMAN
PHOTOGRAPHS BY TIM KRUEGER
PRESENTED BY SUMMER PERRY | SURTERRE PROPERTIES
Features - 316 Hazel
Features - 316 Hazel
H
omeowners on Corona del Mar’s Hazel Drive are blessed to have the best of both worlds—an ideal locale where they can commune with nature via a natural reserve right in their own backyard, or revel in all of the superlative shopping and dining offerings of the village just a short walk away from their front doorstep (with a spectacular view of the ocean waves kissing the shoreline of the nearby beach to boot). Now, entry to this coveted coastal lifestyle has emerged in the form of a stunning new contemporary/postmodern industrial home erected by owner/builder Makwan Yiu, complete with first-rate architectural direction by Mark Teale and interior design by Jessica Lentz of Costa Mesa-based Teale Architecture, and staged furnishings curated by Blackband Home & Design. “Mark is one of our favorite local architects, and it has been a pleasure working with him on other projects in Corona del Mar,” says real estate agent Summer Perry, who is co-listing Teale’s latest project with Jessie Holechek (both of The Summer Perry Group at Surterre Properties) for $5.9 million. “We relate to his philosophy that says, ‘Liking what you do determines how well you do it,’ which in short means doing your best for each individual client. His passion for design produces a unique and cutting-edge result each time.” Case in point, this impeccably designed home at 316 Hazel Drive on the ocean side of Pacific Coast Highway in the city of Newport Beach. With its prime location—adjacent to the Buck Gully Reserve and the village of Corona del Mar, and just a mere few houses away from the secluded shores of Little Corona Beach—the residence not only provides superb views of a spacious canyon and the beautiful blue Pacific, but also offers convenient access to local hot spots, such as the landmark fine-dining destination Five Crowns and its casual English-style gastropub SideDoor, and much more.
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“
The Buck Gully locale provides a tranquil setting full of birds, frogs and a serene stream, along with the sound of crashing waves, and yet you are able to walk to restaurants, shops, beaches, Fashion Island and Crystal Cove State Park. -Makwan Yiu
�
Features - 316 Hazel
Features - 316 Hazel
HOME
“The Buck Gully locale provides a tranquil setting full of birds, frogs and a serene stream, along with the sound of crashing waves, and yet you are able to walk to restaurants, shops, beaches, Fashion Island and Crystal Cove State Park,” says Yiu, who received a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Northeastern University and a master’s in construction management from Columbia, and has more than 30 years of construction-management experience for large infrastructure/public works projects. Already proficient in the field of heavy construction, Yiu found a new passion in custom home building after overseeing the construction of his own Corona del Mar dream home with his wife, Meiling. His second residential project has resulted in a soft contemporary stucco, steel and wood masterpiece with an industrial twist that boasts approximately 3,400 square feet of one-of-a-kind aesthetic and architectural touches. Among them: an eye-catching, corrugated metal entry tower with elongated windows to bring in natural light, as well as linear decks on each level offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.
Features - 316 Hazel
Upon entering the home’s light-filled foyer, one is introduced to staircases that lead to three generous living levels and a rooftop deck, as well as an elevator hidden behind an attractive painted door. A set of cable-railed stairs sporting French oak wood treads and raisers ascends from the foyer to the main living level, emptying into a living room highlighted by a porcelain textured tile fireplace with a black leather-finished mantle; floating shelves and cabinets; and floor-to-ceiling glass Fleetwood stacking doors that open to reveal massive vistas of both the tranquil rock-and-treefilled gully and ocean, along with Pelican Hill Golf Course. A small set of steps leads from the living room to a raised dining area overlooking the glorious natural scenery, with plentiful natural light provided during the day and an exquisite LED diamond-cut, clear crystal chandelier offering illumination at night. The dining area is flanked by a glass-encased, temperature-controlled wine cellar that holds 462 bottles and a sleek chef ’s kitchen showcasing a large pantry with slide-pull drawers; gray wood Legacy cabinetry; Thermador appliances (including a flush-mount, column refrigerator/freezer, six-burner stove with griddle and double ovens); and a large double-waterfall-edge island with sink. “Entertaining in this light-filled living room, dining room and kitchen space is immensely unique,” says Holechek. “As the glass walls are opened and stacked to the south side of the home, the natural elements of the interior blend seamlessly with the lush greenery of the neighboring coastal canyon.”
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HOME From the main living level, a recessed glass walkway leads past an artistic lightfilled powder room with porcelain tile, a vessel-style sink and floating toilet and empties out onto a partially covered rooftop deck that is ideal for relaxing and entertaining. Back inside, yet another level holds the master bedroom quarters— complete with glass Fleetwood doors that open to a linear deck overlooking the gully. An en-suite bath features a double vanity, and a striking hand-cut tile bathing platform sports a stand-alone sunken tub and rain shower, while a large custom walk-in closet with built-in shelves is designed to maximize the space with style.
Heading downstairs, a voluminous terrace level holds a laundry room with a stackable washer/dryer and sink, the home’s equipment room and a massive storage space. Also found on this lower level is an office space/bonus room, along with a duo of bedrooms (one with an exposed concrete wall) featuring en-suite baths and custom closets—all with glass Fleetwood sliding doors that open to the balcony and views. “The three levels of the home are thematically different: The lower level is defined by the concrete flooring, and it is the quietest level; the next level by a ‘half-flight’ of stairs, and it is dedicated to the master bedroom and bath; and the upper level by the openness, both spatial and view,” says Yiu. “Put together, living here allows for a balance of privacy and company, truly embodying the beauty of ocean-side Hazel.”
Last, but definitely not least, is what rounds out this home’s special appeal: an oversized two-car garage with epoxy flooring and crisp white walls that features dual electric car-charging stations and a space for a water-filtration system. “We are very excited and honored to have the pleasure of finding this home its new owner who will appreciate and cherish the quality of build and its relationship to the natural environment as much as we do,” says Perry.
Features - 316 Hazel
Features - 316 Hazel
Features - 11 Needle Grass
CROWN of the CANYON WRITTEN BY CONSTANCE DUNN
PRESENTED BY CHRIS VALLI | SURTERRE PROPERTIES
Features - 11 Needle Grass
A French Mediterranean estate transforms everyday living into art... and brings nature along, too
A
s you glide from the freeway towards Shady Canyon, it’s easy to see what inspired James Irvine and his partners to scoop up as much of this natural bounty as they could back in the late 1800s. Clean, gentle air whistles softly across the land and a peaceful expanse of rolling hills and valleys cradle a picture-book Californwwwia landscape, still vastly unspoiled.
Once you enter the private community, there’s more of the same. Landscaped blocks of greenery and quiet, punctuated by a collection of homes, luxurious and symmetrical in their style, each a type of classic Mediterranean. Open-air floor plans, flush with courtyards and breezy alcoves, make it an architectural style ideally suited to Southern California’s kind year-round climate and pleasing scenery. Perhaps the most idealized, elegant version of this style exists at the end of a cul de sac, along a high elevation of the canyon, and with a bird’s-eye view stretching across miles of rolling hillside and including Newport Beach, Catalina Island and, on a clear day, even the water and downtown Los Angeles. It’s a stone-laden French Mediterranean estate, approximately 12,500 square feet and poised on over an acre of plush hilltop. If you’re fond of seeing neighbors at every turn, you won’t be so satisfied here: the nearest house is a short hike down the road.
Features - 11 Needle Grass AUTHENTIC ARTISTRY
Sometimes attempts at grand properties fall flat because the bar is so high, and missteps—either in design, craftsmanship or good taste—become glaring, creating an irreparable chink in the armor. In this case, the result, was an authentic French-style country estate completed in late 2013 and perched in a perfect slice of California countryside. Its dyed in the wool, rusticated elegance comes from undisputed achievement on three fronts: craftsmanship, landscape, and design. Carlos Elenes of EBTA Architects, Robert Ferguson Company (construction), Carolyne Ferguson Design (interior design) and G. Grisamore Design (landscaping) produced the singularly realized vision.
The fine workmanship is visible to the eye, yes, but also palpable to the senses—and is consistent through the entire home. “The quality of the construction,” agent Chris Valli of Surterre Properties says swiftly when asked about highlights of the home. “Phenomenal craftsmanship. Phenomenal materials.”
The most plentiful material, woven through the interior and cladding the exterior, is pale stone, a smart choice that, along with the clay-barrel roof, is impervious to heat and wind. Another dominant material is wood—ranging from rough-hewn, repurposed and aged to smoothly finished new stock. Valli points out an ancient wood-and-steel door sourced from an old building abroad. “A lot of the material was brought in from Europe.” Decor, from lighting and furniture to rugs, bedding and even floor tiles, if not custom-created for the home, is antique.
Features - 11 Needle Grass
MARRIAGE OF NEW AND OLD
The deft blending of new and old is found throughout the home. The family room is a place where crisp modern couches juxtapose against pale French Chambord oak flooring and a ceiling of reclaimed wood beams and tiered brass chandeliers. A painted Gustavian-style cabinet (think a restrained, Scandinavian version of French rococo) mingles with an antique French limestone fireplace. The colors throughout the home are an easygoing palette of creams, taupe and soft browns. It works, and spotlights the natural splendor that surrounds the place. This is where master landscaping kicks in. Like the rest of the home, the sophisticated duality between elegant and rustic is at play. European garden mainstays— slender Cypress trees framing the pool lawn, tidy boxwood hedges—mingle with scrubby olive trees, wild French lavender and lemon trees; the effect is free-form beautiful without ever being too precious. The home’s thoughtful network of French doors and windows, plus a floor plan arranged around fresh-air courtyards enables an intimate interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces. The European-style kitchen, for instance, features a network of fine appliances (a decorative steel range from La Cornue is a highlight) and Cararra marble islands tucked under a curved, wood beam ceiling. It’s yet another grand, romantic space with close connection to the outdoors; this time via an adjoining morning room surrounded by walls of French doors to bring in sunlight and a panorama of valley views.
Features - 11 Needle Grass
Features - 11 Needle Grass
Features - 11 Needle Grass A BEAUTIFUL BREAK For every grand gathering spot in the home, there is another offering peace and solitude. Poetic sitting areas and quiet spaces are found at every turn, including a studious office suite with full bath and separate entrance. “It’s a very flexible floor plan,” says Valli. “The layout is conducive to 90-percent single-story living. You’ve got two bedrooms upstairs, but the rest is down here.” Speaking of, the two upstairs bedroom suites (out of the home’s five) can function as a standalone visitor’s quarters, complete with a lounge. Likewise for the subterranean level, which houses a bedroom suite along with a gym.
The entrance of the home is fitting—one elegantly sculpted courtyard leads to another, then a row of doors welcomes you inside. It’s a first impression that is never diminished, and only builds while walking through the home and grounds. In all, the property seems designed around letting one take a beautiful break from everyday life, which lies, conveniently enough, not too far from its custom, antique front doors. “It’s such a desirable area,” says Valli of the locale. “It’s one of the nicest places to live in the world.” Add to that a private golf course within the community, and being about 10 minutes by car from the beach or shopping. “We’re close to Orange County Airport, and you’d never know it,” he adds. “Bingo, you’re on a plane out of here in about eight minutes.” Heaven knows, though, why you’d want to do that if you called this address home.
Features - 11 Needle Grass
Surterre
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w w w .1P e l i c a n C r e s t . c o m Sold for $24,100,000 | Highest-Priced Home Sale in Orange County in 2017 Sold at Highest Price per Square Foot in Newport Coast OVER $294,0 0 0 ,000 IN S A LE S A C T IV IT Y WIT H IN T H E LA S T S IX M ON T H S
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REX MCKOWN | MARCY WEINSTEIN C 949.689.5018 C 949.689.3550
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Surterre PropertiesÂŽ, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Sales activity based on MLS and non-MLS data combined for properties sold and in escrow from 11/01/2016 - 05/01/2017. Highest-priced sale and price per square foot as reported in MLS as of 06/08/2017. Surterre Properties BRE#01778230
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MCKOWN | WEINSTEIN | ASSOCIATES
CRYSTAL COVE CUSTOM LOT | NEWPORT COAST
LEMON HEIGHTS | NORTH TUSTIN
Offered for $3,130,000 | w w w.N e w p o r t C o a st P ro p e r t ies .c om
Offered for $13,990,000 | w w w.2122LowerLake. com
Surterre
PELICAN HILL | NEWPORT COAST
CRYSTAL COVE CUSTOMS | NEWPORT COAST
Offered for $20,900,000 | w w w.3 R im R id g e .c o m
Offered for $23,000,000 | w w w.11ClearWater. com
w w w. N ew p o r t C o a s t P r o p e r t i e s . co m
Over $294,000,000 in Sales Activity WI THIN THE L AST SIX MONTHS
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MCKOWN | WEINSTEIN | ASSOCIATES
PELICAN HILL | NEWPORT COAST
CRYSTAL COVE CUSTOMS | NEWPORT COAST
Offered for $11,985,000 | w w w.6 S u n se t H a r b o r.c o m
Offered for $35,000,000 | w w w.9D elM a r. com
Surterre
PELICAN HILL | NEWPORT COAST
CRYSTAL COVE CUSTOMS | NEWPORT COAST
Offered for $12,995,000 | w w w.1 5 H a r b o r L ig h t .c o m
Offered for $15,998,000 | w w w.35Off s hore. com
w w w. N ew p o r t C o a s t P r o p e r t i e s . co m
REX MCKOWN
MARCY WEINSTEIN
McKown | Weinstein | Associates
McKown | Weinstein | Associates
C 949.689.5018
C 949.689.3550
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mweinstein@surterreproperties.com
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Surterre Properties®, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Sales activity based on MLS and non-MLS data combined for properties sold and in escrow from 11/01/16-05/1/17.
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PELICAN HILL | NEWPORT COAST
CRYSTAL COVE CUSTOM LOT | NEWPORT COAST
Offered for $8,700,000 | w w w.4 S a ilv ie w.c o m
Offered for $7,998,000 | w w w.SevenD el Mar. com
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PORT STREETS | NEWPORT BEACH
PELICAN CREST | NEWPORT COAST
Offered for $4,500,000 | w w w.2 0 3 2 P o r t B r ist o lC ircle.c om
Offered for $15,995,000 | w w w.11Pelic anV i sta. com
w w w. N ew p o r t C o a s t P r o p e r t i e s . co m
REX MCKOWN
MARCY WEINSTEIN
McKown | Weinstein | Associates
McKown | Weinstein | Associates
C 949.689.5018
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PENINSULA POINT | NEWPORT BEACH | Offered for $14,995,000 | w w w.1752Eas t Oc eanf ront .c om
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BALBOA PENINSULA | NEWPORT BEACH | Offered for $6,975,000 | w w w.4311Seas hore.c om
w w w. N ew p o r t C o a s t P r o p e r t i e s . co m
ROB SMITH McKown | Weinstein | Associates
C 949.697.8855
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MONARCH POINT | LAGUNA NIGUEL This East Coast-inspired estate has endless breathtaking views for miles that few get to experience, let alone bask in daily. Perched high atop the bluff, this estate offers unobstructed views that stretch into the horizon with white water crashing on the coastline below. This Hamptons-style masterpiece of over 7,200 square feet of elegance sits on a palatial lot of over 31,000 square feet. The premier location of this estate resides in a 24-hour guard-gated community at the end of a cul-de-sac within its own private gate encapsulating the circular motorcourt. All of this is conveniently located just minutes from the world-class resorts, shopping, dining, recreation, boating, and golfing that Southern California offers. Offered for $6,125,00 w w w.22803Seaw ayD r ive.c om
w w w. N ew p o r t C o a s t P r o p e r t i e s . co m
ERIC NEFF McKown | Weinstein | Associates
C 949.500.7119
eneff@surterreproperties.com BRE#01873751 Surterre PropertiesÂŽ, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.
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SHADY CANYON® | IRVINE | Offered for $6,898,000 | w w w.93CanyonCreek.c om
Surterre
SHADY CANYON | IRVINE | Offered for $8,995,000 | w w w.47G oldenEagle.c om w w w. S h a d y C a nyo n E x p e r t s . co m
REX MCKOWN
LENA GHEZEL
McKown | Weinstein | Associates
McKown | Weinstein | Associates
C 949.689.5018
C 714.914.3443
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Lghezel@surterreproperties.com
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JACQUELINE THOMPSON GROUP RITZ COVE DANA POINT Price Upon Request This is a tremendous opportunity to build an oceanfront custom home of your dreams on a prime lot in exclusive guard-gated Ritz Cove— one of the region’s most sought-after locations for coastal living, located just moments from world-class beaches and convenient access to charming boutiques and restaurants. www. 6R i tz C o v e .co m
Surterre PRICE REDUCED PACIFIC RIDGE | NEWPORT COAST Offered for $4,999,999 Basking in views of the serene Crystal Cove State Park and Pacific Ocean is this newer-built four bedroom, four-and-one-half bath Fiano residence in Pacific Ridge. With a rare oversized lot, the estate takes full advantage of the coastal California lifestyle with a resort-style rear yard boasting a covered patio, large pool and spa, and spacious emerald lawn. w w w.10Seawatch. com
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JACQUELINE THOMPSON GROUP SHADY CANYON® IRVINE Offered for $7,995,000 This extraordinary Shady Canyon custom estate offers views of the ocean, Palos Verdes, Catalina Island, and city lights— a rarity in the enclave. Perched high and built to exacting standards, this premier address offers livable luxury—indoors and out—with an ideal floor plan spanning seven bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths, and including a stylish open-concept kitchen and family room. w w w.25Needl eGrass. com
PRICE REDUCED SHADY CANYON | IRVINE
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Offered for $6,250,000 Spectacular custom estate perched on a private, elevated lot featuring a refreshing layout that is enriched by expansive rooms framed in beautiful architectural detail. This six bedroom, six-and-one-half bath residence enjoys fabulous spaces for modern living, including a spacious foyer and central courtyard, large formal living room, gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, great room, and fabulous show-stopping built-in wine storage. w ww. 46C o p p erC re e k .co m
w w w. J a c q u e li n eT h o m p s o n G r o u p . co m
OVER $1 BI L L IO N I N C A R E E R S ALES NAMED A TOP-PRODUCING AGENT NATIONWIDE by the Wall Street Journal*
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C 949.326.3392
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Surterre Properties®, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.*2016 Individuals by Transaction Volume
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JACQUELINE THOMPSON GROUP
SHADY CANYON® | IRVINE | Offered for $5,595,000
SHADY CANYON | IRVINE | Offered for $4,395,000
Elegant charm fills this French Provençal estate enveloped by breathtaking
Exquisite views of Shady Canyon’s rolling hills and golf course
vistas of the hillsides. ww w.2 2 S a g e C re e k .c o m
amidst unparalleled privacy. w w w.2Ver nal Spri ng. com
Surterre
SOLD | SHADY CANYON | $5,350,000 LP |
Represented Seller
All cash, quick close. Seamless indoor-outdoor living on a private lot.
IN ESCROW | SHADY CANYON | $7,750,000 |
Representing Seller
Defining classic elegance, this custom estate home attains Old World grandeur. w w w.48Copper Cre ek. com
w w w. J a c q u e li n eT h o m p s o n G r o u p . co m
OVER $1 BILLION IN CAREER SALES NAMED A TOP-PRODUCING AGENT NATIONWIDE by the Wall Street Journal*
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JACQUELINE THOMPSON GROUP
SOLD | SHADY CANYON® | $13,995,000 |
Represented Seller
SOLD | CRYSTAL COVE | $8,495,000 |
Represented Buyer & Seller
Record highest sales price in the city of Irvine; all-cash, quick close sale.
Listed and sold within 28 days. Brand new, never lived in estate
Premier estate defines artful living.
complete with numerous designer upgrades.
Surterre
SOLD | SHADY CANYON | $5,699,000 |
Represented Buyer & Seller
SOLD | SHADY CANYON | $4,995,000 |
Represented Buyer
First time on the market. Experience architectural gestures
Impressive four bedroom estate featuring the finest materials
on a grand scale in this beautiful Santa Barbara estate.
and finishes throughout, surrounded by lush outdoor areas.
w w w. J a c q u e li n eT h o m p s o n G r o u p . co m
JACQUELINE THOMPSON 经验丰富的房产经纪为您服务
C 949.326.3392
jthompson@surterreproperties.com BRE#01476106 Surterre Properties®, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.*2016 Individuals by Transaction Volume
BRE#01778230
KAREN BETSON
Surterre
BIG CANYON GOLF COURSE CUSTOM HOME BIG CANYON | NEWPORT BEACH
Located on a quiet cul-de-sac on the seventh green of Big Canyon Golf Course, this elegant traditional custom residence is comprised of beautifully appointed living areas, five bedrooms, three full baths, and two one-half baths. The brick patio and gardens are magnificent with a very private pool and spa. Price Upon Request
BRE#01778230
KAREN BETSON
Surterre
COMING SOON
BIG CANYON | NEWPORT BEACH
Expansive golf course and country club views from this wonderful Big Canyon home. Over 4,000 square feet with four bedrooms and three-and-one-half baths on an oversized lot. Please contact Karen Betson for property details. Price Upon Request
KAREN BETSON Big Canyon Resident & Specialist
C 949.584.5929
kbetson@surterreproperties.com BRE#00666161 Surterre PropertiesÂŽ, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.
BRE#01778230
HOSANA SAPUTRA
STUNNING ESTATESurterre
PELICAN POINT | NEWPORT COAST
Gorgeous custom estate located on the eleventh fairway of the prestigious Pelican Hill Golf Course. This residence will leave you speechless with its polished contemporary design and direct sweeping views of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Lavish foliage surrounds this dazzling residence, creating the perfect luxurious escape. Through the beautifully crafted front door, the home exposes cathedral vaulted ceilings and gorgeous hardwood flooring throughout. The open floor plan encompasses five bedrooms and six bathrooms and establishes an abundance of airy living space spanning approximately 7,673 square feet in this three-story home. The second level holds three bedrooms with private balconies, including the spacious master suite with a spa-like bathroom and living area with a fireplace. The main level holds a study room, guest bedroom, modern kitchen with granite countertops, and grand living space with a fireplace. The lower level contains an indoor pool, sauna and steam room, meditation/yoga room, and comfortable entertainment space. Other features include an elevator with service to all three floors and a nearly 2,000 square foot subterranean garage. This elegant residence is just moments away from the beach and entertainment. Offered for $8,900,000
BRE#01778230
HOSANA SAPUTRA
Surterre LUXURIOUS COASTAL CANYON ESTATE
C O A S TA L C A N Y O N | N E W P O R T C O A S T
Discover a luxurious home located in the exclusive 24-hour gate-guarded community of Coastal Canyon. The estate boasts nearly 4,258 square feet of gracious living space that rests on an approximately 8,361 square foot lot. Beautiful custom iron doors lead you to the grand entryway, which opens up to a custom courtyard preceding the main entrance. The sumptuous interior encompasses dramatic inner beauty with four bedrooms and four-and-one-half bathrooms. Offered for $2,900,000
w w w.G o2 H o s a n a . co m
HOSANA SAPUTRA 何福勝 C 714.865.1688
hosana@go2hosana.com BRE#01320561 Surterre Properties®, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.
BRE#01778230
RICK & GIA
Surterre
ONE OF THE FINEST ESTATES IN BIG CANYON BIG CANYON | NEWPORT BEACH
This sublime estate beyond the guarded gates of Newport Beach’s Big Canyon enclave is without compare. Overlooking the entire third hole of the Big Canyon Country Club, the property boasts approximately 10,270 square feet, nine unique fireplaces, an elevator, two staircases, five en-suite bedrooms, theater, wine cellar, game room, and pub-style bar. Price Upon Request | ww w.3 B u r n in g Tre e .c o m
BRE#01778230
RICK & GIA
Surterre
RICK LANGEVIN Smart Strategies | Exceptional Results
C 949.933.2777
GIA LANGEVIN-DALMACIO Smart Strategies | Exceptional Results
C 949.678.6952
rlangevin@surterreproperties.com w w w. R i c k L a n g ev i n . c o m
glangevin@surterreproperties.com w w w.G i a L a n g ev i n - D a l m a c i o . c o m
BRE#00777918
BRE#01423922
Surterre PropertiesÂŽ, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.
BRE#01778230
HAMMOND | MORENO | ASSOCIATES
Surterre
BRE#01778230
HAMMOND | MORENO | ASSOCIATES
BAYFRONT PARADISE
PENINSULA POINT | NEWPORT BEACH
Surterre
This awe-inspiring bayfront home was designed by architect Frank Wen to reflect a close relationship with the panoramic views of the harbor, ocean, and picturesque hillside across the bay. Interior designer Sheldon Harte created a soft contemporary ambiance revealing brilliant design, execution, and detailed craftsmanship. This magnificent waterfront property was built by Christiano Homes and is graced by clean, modern lines and open spaces that flow outside to the bayfront patio, terraced decks, and private dock that are perfect for indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. Every detail was carefully selected and quality crafted, including exotic wood, artisan tilework, and smart home technology. Be sure to watch the video on the property website. Offered for $9,995,000 w w w.2254ChannelRoad.c om
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CASSIE HAMMOND
CHRISTOPHER MORENO
Hammond | Moreno | Associates
Hammond | Moreno | Associates
C 949.500.5569
C 949.280.6357
Cassie@iLoveNewport.com
Chris@iLoveNewport.com
BRE#01264839
RE#01503663
Surterre PropertiesÂŽ, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.
BRE#01778230
PFEIF GROUP As a Real Estate Broker for 17 years,
ROBERT PFEIF KNOWS THE INTRICACIES OF THE MARKET BETTER THAN MOST
Surterre
JUST SOLD | NEWPORT BEACH | 215 Grant Street** | Listed for $1,145,000
“I worked with Robert and Lisa to sell my condo in Newport Beach and find a new home in Dana Point. The entire process was very smooth. I travel a ton for work and felt super comfortable leaving Robert in charge to deal with the sale without my involvement. When it came time to buy a new place, Lisa found a cute house in Dana Point that was not even on my radar—and I loved it. As a Canadian living in California, I am not super familiar with the processes here, and having Robert quarterback the deals made me feel much more comfortable. I really enjoyed working with this team.” ~ P. Khodabandeh
SOLD | DANA POINT | 34052 Pequito Drive | Listed for $794,900*
SOLD | NEWPORT BEACH | 2810 Catalpa Street | $1,650,000*
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ROBERT PFEIF Broker Associate, CRS
LISA DOAN-MINH Sales Associate
C 949.720.8300
C 949.690.3918
BRE#01292044
BRE#01972835
pfeif@surterreproperties.com
lisad@surterreproperties.com
Surterre Properties®, Inc. does not guarantee accuracy of all data, including all measurements and calculations of area. Information is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by Broker or Agent of MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. *Represented Buyer **Represented Seller
BASK TABLE
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Puesto chef rolls masa for fresh tortillas. Photo courtesy of Puesto
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BLUEGOLD & LSXO (located inside Bluegold) 21016 PCH, Suite D200 Huntington Beach, CA DineBlueGold.com
Table - Bluegold
Haute Concept
Bluegold and its restaurant-within-a-restaurant, LSXO, serve up two distinct cuisines in one breathtaking Pacific City location WRITTEN BY SUSAN IRBY
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lackhouse Hospitality’s Bluegold and its first restaurant-within-a-restaurant by Chief Executive Officer Jed Sanford and chef and Chief Operating Officer Tin Vuong promise patrons a unique dining experience. Both with crisp ocean views, the expansive Bluegold merges earth and sea with wood and charcoal grills, steam kettle cooking and a full raw bar. Shares chef Vuong, “Our global approach incorporates Old-World Spanish flavors with those of California, and masterfully prepares a
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variety of dishes using virtually every culinary technique that we’ve mastered at our previous concepts.” Popular selections include the Uni Risoto with truffle, Shellfish Pot, Duck Confit Milanese and Lamb Chop Frites. Enjoy and sip signature cocktails like the Vincent Vega with bourbon, china china, orgeat and bitters while enjoying vast ocean views.
Tucked behind an unmarked door is LSXO. Inspired by the restaurant group’s Little Sister brand, LSXO is a love letter of sorts to the cuisine of Vuong’s native Vietnam, with both the menu and décor of this 28-seat hideaway a bit edgier than the light and airy Bluegold. Dishes like the Foie Gras and Pho Spiced Oxtail Torchon, Octopus Terrine and Banh Canh, Vuong’ Saigon-Style Noodle Soup transcend California styles for an otherworldly culinary adventure, while traditional Southeast Asia and European furnishings set the stage for vintage objet d’art in a residential-style design. “LSXO is as if you are stepping into a colonial-style home in Southeast Asia,” states Vuong. “It’s accented by [O]ld-[W]orld European décor, but the space also feels sleek and cutting edge.”
photos courtesy of Simon Nicholls and Dan Collopy
(clockwise from left) Bluegold’s Uni Risotto; Bluegold’s bar area; LSXO’s cuisine; chef Tin Vuong and Blackhouse Hospitality owner/founder, Jed Sanford; LSXO’s dining room
photos courtesy of Zac Benson (interior) and Puesto (food)
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Summer Solstice Partake of the Mexi-fresh flavors at Puesto WRITTEN BY AMY ADAMS
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n want of a favorite haunt? A new resto to spice up your dining routine this summer—one that you’ll flock to for seconds, thirds? Consider Puesto for more reasons than one, but especially its festive ambiance, award-winning tacos and delicious, housemade margaritas.
It’s a sinful scene from the moment you arrive. Fresh aromas permeate from the eat-in kitchen through the restaurant—a scheme inspired by Mesoamerican architecture and designed by famed artist Paul Basile— and out the open façade. The smell of mint, chopped onions and meat on the grill. Servers bustling about while guests chat and chow down inside or on the spacious outdoor patio. Paying homage to Mexico City, the décor is modern and vibrant, and features hundreds of concrete tiles that catch the natural light pouring in from skylights. It’s loud. But in a good way. It feels like a fiesta, or a backyard barbecue with everyone welcome.
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PUESTO 8577 Irvine Center Dr. Irvine, CA EatPuesto.com
Like the vibe, the food is also flavorful, Mexico-City style: salsas are made from scratch, meat and seafood is sustainable, and tortillas are handmade maíz azul and stone-ground. There are a number of delectable menu items such as the green salad with whipped ricotta and squash, roasted plantains, and grilled corn with chili and lime… all delicioso, but an absolute must-try is the taco trio. What a perfect way to experiment with food flavors and indulge in something you’ve never tried before. It’s mouthwatering and easy to share. And no dish would be complete without one of Puesto’s fresh-made margaritas—pressed, squeezed, chilled to perfection, and trimmed on the rim. After all, don’t margaritas and summer go hand-in-hand?
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Historic Seaport Dining Reimagined
Table - Coastal Kitchen
Indulge a taste for exquisite seafood and inviting decor at Coastal Kitchen in Dana Point’s Lantern District
photos courtesy of Coastal Kitchen
WRITTEN BY SUSAN IRBY
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elebrating Coastal Kitchen’s one-year anniversary, owners Michael and Christina Grant are succeeding in their mission to “create a place where people want to keep coming back again and again.” Joining forces after years in the restaurant industry, the duo renovated the former gas station and café from front-of-the-house to kitchen. “This was the first commercial building in Dana Point, built in the 1920s,” shares Christina, who designed, and in some cases made, the restaurant’s interior decor. “It’s a special space that deserves equally memorable cuisine.”
Under the guiding hand of Executive Chef Andrew Palma, Coastal Kitchen promises an alluring and enjoyable experience. The “from-scratch” kitchen offers sustainable seafood and fish, like the Scallops with pineapple mango salsa, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, and Trout with Marcona almonds and herbs, as well as soul-nourishing dishes such as the Fried Brie, available as an appetizer, or salad and Braised Short Ribs with roasted Brussels sprouts. Says chef Palma, “In creating the menu from the ground up, the food embraces the relaxed Southern California vibe with a high-quality, back-to-basics menu.” Guests can savor the true “back-to-basics” experience with exquisite tastes like the Mac n’ Cheese side dish, and for dessert, the S’Mores Pie or Hot Fudge Sundae. From the bar, house mixologists customize cocktails to one’s liking. Or, one can choose among the house selections, including the Spiced Old Fashioned, Cucumber Mint Limeade, or Ward 8 consisting of Bulliet Bourbon, pom, orange juice and simple syrup. COASTAL KITCHEN 34091 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, CA CoastKitchenDanaPoint.com
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photos courtesy of The Butchery
(clockwise from left) Brian Smith (L) and Robert Hagopian (R); Tomahawk steak; all meats can be hand-cut to order and prepared to your specifications by skilled butchers
Table - Butchery Countered Culture Meats and service take top priority at The Butchery WRITTEN BY SUSAN IRBY
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o stop at one of The Butchery’s three Orange County locations is to step into a niche butcher shop with meats and service a cut above the local meat counter. After the success of its first location in Costa Mesa nearly eight years ago, co-owner Robert Hagopian says, “We’re a butcher shop, that’s what we do.” From the Snake River Farms American Wagyu beef to the Salmon Creek Farms bone-in pork chops and signature marinated chicken, The Butchery’s specialty cuts and unique products are of the utmost quality, separating it from the crowd. Adds Hagopian, “Today’s customer wants quality, and they desire knowledgeable, attentive service.” For this reason, The Butchery hires highly skilled culinary students and chefs as the core of its staff. One such staff member is General Manager Ryan Calhoun, who says, “Our goal is to educate customers so they know what they are eating, and to offer tips and techniques on how to prepare their selections.” In addition to prime protein, The Butchery offers a distinguished array of fine wines; a full deli with options including the mouth-watering speck prosciutto, porchetta with rosemary, and an assortment of gourmet cheese, such as Truffle Tremor, Saint Agur French blue, and well-loved Humboldt Fog goat. More adventuresome palates will enjoy foie gras and exotic meats (wild boar, elk, bison, venison and beyond). Finally, for a show-stopping cut, indulge in the Tomahawk, which weighs nearly three pounds on average and features a bone worthy of the dinosaur age.
THE BUTCHERY Crystal Cove 8058 E. PCH Newport Coast, CA ButcheryMeats.com (*Locations also in Costa Mesa and Brea) baskmagazine.com
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n impressive newcomer to South OC’s dining scene, Hendrix Restaurant & Bar recently opened at Ocean Ranch Village in Laguna Niguel. The third concept for the owners/operators behind Driftwood Kitchen and The Deck in Laguna Beach, this gorgeous neighborhood resto focuses on New American cuisine. After an extensive remodel of the former Fred’s Mexican Cafe, the expansive, revamped space boasts a main dining room with a large bar, an enclosed patio area with distant ocean views, a lounge area, a private dining room and a retail wine shop.
New American Cuisine South OC Table in - Hendrix
Executive Chef Rainer Schwarz’s rotisserie menu tempts with Rosemary-Lemon Chicken, spit-roasted Porchetta and Colorado Leg of Lamb, available as entrees or as a three meats platter. For starters, the zucchini cornbread with honey compound butter, the Roti Chicken and Prosciutto Fritters, and the chicken flatbread all make for appetizing shareable plates. The restaurant’s beverage program features an expansive wine list, craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails, including its signature drink, The Perfect G&T with Hendrick’s Gin—(the Hendrix moniker a play on this spirit). “Our goal is to be a neighborhood restaurant that highlights local and seasonal ingredients, and delivers an experience that is approachable and desired,” notes chef Schwarz. Based on a recent visit, Hendrix is off to an auspicious start.
HENDRIX 32431 Golden Lantern Laguna Niguel, CA HendrixOC.com
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photos courtesy of Anne Watson Photography
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Neighborhood restaurant Hendrix features fresh seafood and fire-roasted meats in an inviting atmosphere WRITTEN BY BETH FHANER
Smoother Sale-ing
A First American home warranty can help keep a real estate sale running smoothly.
• Reduce risk throughout the transaction process.
Contact us to learn about all of the benefits of a First American home warranty.
• Avoid last-minute scrambles if a home appliance or system covered by our home warranty breaks down during or just after closing. • Select from a wide-range of quality affordable plans for the real estate community
Roberta Curlender
Rosie Poole
NEWPORT BEACH 714.310.7388 | curlender@firstam.com
LAGUNA BEACH 949.400.7789 | poole@firstam.com
Orders: 800.444.9030 | Service: 800.992.3400 | firstamrealestate.com First American Home Warranty Corporation makes no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. First American, the eagle logo, firstam.com, and First American Home Warranty Corporation are registered trademarks of First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. First American Home Warranty Corporation also operates as First American Home Warranty Corporation of Florida in the state of Florida. ©2017 First American Home Warranty Corporation. All rights reserved. FA_ADBASK_1_17
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A Summer Classic An iconic boat builder and its classic wooden craft evoke the luminous, sunlit season
photos (this page and next) courtesy of Ferretti Group
Looking Back
WRITTEN BY JENN THORNTON
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LOOKING BACK
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ummertime conjures up many images, but none is more idealized than that of the glossy wooden boat skimming across cerulean seas at breakneck speeds, its pilot with one hand on the wheel and the other on a bikinied beauty taking shelter beneath a haloed sunhat and king-size shades, the paparazzi in hot pursuit. In this cinematic moment, the boat gleams, a beacon of the sun-drenched season and a marker of a bygone era when Mahogany meant motor boating and glamour was the game.
Looking Back
Runabout, speedster, powerboat—a wood-clad boat is a highly collectible work of art, at once a masterpiece of design and an ambassador of fun in the sun, all varnish and move. Today, such vintage watercraft commands top dollar, with those branded a Riva causing devotion on par with a Steinway or a Stradivarius. The crown wearer of the yachting world, Italian boat builder Riva is truly revered, its name synonymous with style, innovation and pedigree, and its clients (royalty, movie stars, leaders of industry, titans of sport) as glittering as the floating palaces it so consistently produces. Frankly, the brand knows no other way; even in rough waters, as was the case in 1842, when a sudden storm wreaked havoc on the boats of unassuming Lake Iseo, where a young carpenter named Pietro Riva had dropped anchor. Having arrived from Laglio on Lake Como, he performed a small miracle when, in repairing most of the beat-up boats, he also restored the spirit of the town, putting its fisherman back to work. Steeped in admiration, the builder proved equally prodigious in business, establishing a Sarnico shipyard and producing boat after boat. 138
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The artisan operation would, over time, integrate technical innovations like the internal combustion engine and produce speedboats that smashed national and international records. But it was the 1950s that marked the golden age for Riva, by then an emblem of elegance and eminence in the world. Steering the ship at this crucial time in the company’s history was Carlo Riva, who watched over the launch of its coveted wooden craft: the Ariston, the twin-engine Tritone, the Sebino, and the Florida. Later years introduced the Aquarama with its promise of “Sun, Sea, Joie De Vivre!”; the first fiberglass cruiser; Avant-Garde models with major horsepower and aerodynamic edge; and day cruisers like the St. Tropez and Superamerica.
Despite many innovations and design triumphs, Riva has, from the start, symbolized a classic timelessness that reflects summer itself—the promise of ease and carefree days spent on the water, the expression of something recognizable in an uneasy social climate. Summer is, after all, like a wellmade wooden boat—both steady and steadying, its traditions and temperament unshakable in their familiarity. So, while we may not all be so fortunate as to find ourselves on board a Riva, we can all dream of its impossibly stylish sundecks, its sinuous lines, its sexy passage. Because what is summer if not the ultimate dream.
We LIVE to Care
With over 1.5 million patient visits each year, Loma Linda University Health continues to be the leader at providing the best possible healthcare in the Inland Valley region. Innovating techniques, advancing knowledge and compassionately providing whole-person care are all part of the blueprint to our exceptional brand of service. Providing quality healthcare services to better the lives of the people we serve is why we LIVE to Care. Find out more about the services we provide in our community, please call 1-877-LLUMC-4U or log on to lomalindahealth.org.
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