Live Beautifully
Create Where
PERFECTLY SEARED SCALLOPS AT 425º
THE ART OF ACCURACY
Monogram’s Professional Induction Range represents the finest in culinary precision, transforming your kitchen into a masterpiece of accuracy. Take the guesswork out of cooking and create refined culinary masterpieces with ease.
Elevate Everything.
Faucets N Fixtures and Native Coast Appliance Gallery
Our curated selection of faucets, plumbing fixtures and cutting-edge appliances make us your complete design solution under one umbrella.
Let us make your dream bath or kitchen a reality!
www.faucetsnfixtures.com
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Architecture That Celebrates The Joys of Living
“The architecture is pure art without being showy or ostentatious. While it would be a gorgeous home in any other location, it feels like a house that was perfectly designed to frame and elevate the view of Camelback and all of the stunning desert features outside. You really feel the awe of nature in every part of the house.”
-Homeowner describing their Kendle Design Collaborative home
pantsuit set, Cult Gaia Olivine top, South Coast Plaza.
EXPERIENCE THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY AND INNOVATION. OUR STATE-OF-THE-ART, FULLY ADJUSTABLE LOUVERED ROOFS ARE ENGINEERED TO PROVIDE THE PERFECT BLEND OF FORM AND FUNCTION, ALLOWING YOU TO ENJOY YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE EVERY DAY, REGARDLESS OF EXTREME WEATHER.
Photo Courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani
Awaken your Senses with a Bespoke Sleep Experience.
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PHOTO BY JASON ROEHNER
Renee M. Dee Publisher
renee@iconiclife.com @iconiclifemag @iconicreneedee
THE TOPS
2022: Barclay Butera, Anita Dawson, Michael Fullen, Omar Enany, Rona Graf, Donna Johnson, Mindy Laven and Ali Faulkner.
2023: Huma Sulaiman, Anne Michaelsen Yahn, Arianna Noppenberger and Sandra Vila.
2024: Jen Samson, Wendi Young, Summer Jensen, Denise Morrison and Errol Dejager.
ICONIC
Irefer to specific times as “publisher’s favorite days” because I find myself doing what I love most: creating content for ICONIC LIFE and spending time with inspiring people. One of those days was mid-July when we produced our Top Designer 2024 photoshoot. The inspiration and goosebumps from that day are why I do what I do. Let me rewind it for a moment to give some context.
In 2022, we recognized our first ICONIC LIFE Top Designers OC class. It was our first curated list of the best of the best, as determined by our editorial team and trusted advisors. We took a deep dive into the portfolios of the leaders in interior design. I beamed with pride that first year when I recognized some of my favorite designers who were truly setting OC on fire with their work. We featured their profiles in the magazine and celebrated their success with an event and awards to mark the occasion.
Of course, there are more than five top talents in OC, so we made our selections for the class of 2023 and this year’s class of 2024. I am so proud of our curated list for this year. I oversaw the photoshoot and personally interviewed each one of them.
As the day progressed, I realized how truly unique each of these five designers is. None of them said the same thing, and, in fact, they were all inspired and motivated by different things. They were the most diverse responses I’ve gotten, which inspired me so much.
One thing they all said is that they find the greatest love for their design by working with clients who inspire them. The designers featured this year are impressive beyond words, and I hope you enjoy hearing their stories.
For someone like me who loves and celebrates refined design, having a studio full of passionate professionals was goosebump-producing. I really do dig this stuff, and the shoot day was nothing short of amazing.
Thanks to our Top Designers for making it happen and for their incredible work in our design community, making OC a highly recognized national design mecca with stunning and award-winning work.
I’m so proud of our group, and I hope you enjoy their work as we continue to feature them on our pages. We look forward to celebrating them with our recognition event.
With Gratitude,
Renee M. Dee Publisher
Photography by Mark Sacro
RENEE M . DEE | Publisher
MEG PERICH | Associate Publisher
DOROTHY COSTELLO | Business Development Director OC
ERIN SUWWAN | Publication Designer
NAKAYLA SHAKESPEARE | Editorial Coordinator
NANCY ERDMANN | Features Editor
MARK SACRO | Cover Photographer CONTRIBUTORS
Bailey Badillo, Fran Miller, Taylor Transtrum and Nora Burba Trulsson
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Chia daybed, designed by Ma eo Cibic for Tidelli.
OLIVIA BARRY/ BY HAND
Tidelli
Grey Gardens Plant Studio
CABINETRY KITCHEN BATH CLOSETS FURNITURE
THE LIST
By Nakayla Shakespeare
A Century of Chairs
The most ICONIC chairs to add to your interior space.
Is your home missing something? Well, here is a compilation of some ICONIC chairs that will add elevation and elegance to any space. These chairs are based on the ones featured in the exhibition A Century of Chairs at The Design Museum in London. Not only are their designs unique, but they also tell a story.
Cassina Black Leather LC4 Chaise Lounge Chair by Le Corbusier. $5,440 via Capsule.
Vintage Armchair in Red & Blue by Gerrit Rietve for Cassina, 1980s. $3,019 via Pamono.
A+ Ultra Premium Version Barcelona Chair Vintage Glossy Tan Aniline Leather. $1,780 via Curverk.
Mezzadro Stool by Achille and Pier
Giacomo Castiglioni made by Zanotta. $1,124 via Luminaire.
Baxton Studio ALC3001 Brown Accent Chair. $231 via Amazon.
Custom design and control your smart home — inside and out.
Residential lighting design that accounts for your circadian rhythm and enhances your living experience in your home.
Custom design and control your smart home — inside and out.
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oasissmarthomes.com SOPHISTICATED LIGHTING OFFERS AN ENVIRONMENT FOR BETTER HEALTH AND WELLNESS.
For the night owls that want a cooler light for optimal focus or entertaining, or for those who want a warmer light to aid in better sleep and settle the body and senses, circadian-based lighting is a solution for longevity in the myriad of ways you want to live in your home.
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Featured Material: Geometric Lilac Fluted Tiles
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Checkers in Burnt Agate Marble. $1,895 via Edie Parker.
Checkmate
in Style
We can’t get enough of these designer board games!
DIOR
Beige and Navy Blue Oblique Poker Set. $4,900 via Dior.
GUCCI
Crocodile Dice Set with Interlocking G.
$1,650 via Gucci.
FENDI
Rome Tower Game. $4,300 via Fendi.
LOUIS VUITTON Chess Game. $4,600 via Louis Vuitton.
EDIE PARKER
The only place to find Mark Pomerantz is wherever Mark is.
Even the smallest nuance of a Mark Pomerantz garment is given a dedicated eye and an expert hand Experience the sensation of unparalleled attention, re nement, and comfort It will leave only one thing left to wonder “Why did I wait this long?”
Trust Me
Don’t ask; just trust Chef Kazunori Nozawa about his goal of serving the absolute best traditional sushi.
By Renee Dee
Photography by Eddie Sanchez, Hungry In LA
“QUALITY STARTS WITH THE BEST FISH EVERY MORNING. SIMPLICITY AND BALANCE SHOULD BE USED TO ACCENT THE FLAVOR AND TEXTURE OF THE FISH. SUSHI SHOULD NOT BE STRINGY, CHEWY, TOUGH OR FISHY. RICE SHOULD BE WARM AND LOOSELY PACKED SO IT MELTS IN THE MOUTH.”
– CHEF NOZAWA
Iwas cruising down the PCH in Corona Del Mar when I spotted this new sushi restaurant, Sugarfish. The cool, modern take on traditional Japanese vibes drew me in right away, and as a sushi enthusiast, I knew I had to check it out.
Sugarfish traces its roots back to Studio City, a famous Los Angeles neighborhood, when, in 1987, Chef Kazunori Nozawa opened his first spot, Sushi Nozawa. His philosophy was simple: top-notch fish, prepared in the traditional way, no frills. Fast-forward two decades, and he teamed up with Jerry Greenberg to form the Sushi Nozawa Group.
They’ve since expanded to 11 locations in Southern California and five in New York, including Nozawa Bar in Beverly Hills and KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar in Los Angeles and New York.
For Nozawa, it’s always been about bringing authentic Japanese sushi to
America. This seemingly simple goal is a testament to his lifetime of dedication. The chef’s obsession with perfection, from how the rice is cooked to sourcing the best fish daily, is truly admirable.
When talking to the team or reading about Nozawa, the descriptive words obsessed, perfection and mastery are often used. If it can be controlled, Nozawa is on it, from how the rice is cooked in small rice cookers certified for commercial use and how the house-made signature sauces are made to the oversight of the seaweed beds, his wicked knife skills and the careful selection of fish daily. Nozawa always looks for the highest quality, whether in color, fat content, size, freshness, or how the fish was handled.
At Sugarfish, they are serious about quality. They get their fish from top suppliers worldwide, ensuring they pick the best. Even the rice has its own story. It is sourced from a Japanese company in the Sacramento
Delta and paired with a secret vinegar blend crafted just right for their sushi.
The night I visited Sugarfish was nothing short of fantastic. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, the design sleek, and I was with great friends. We opted for the Nozawa Trust Me omakase; every bite was impeccable. The sushi and sashimi were outstanding, especially the tuna sashimi with house-made ponzu. We enjoyed a variety of fish, each piece better than the last.
Nozawa uses simple, top-quality ingredients to stay true to traditional sushi values. He’s achieved this, as our dining experience was a testament to the art of simplicity meeting culinary excellence.
As Chef Nozawa wisely said years ago, “Stay true to what you believe. The rest will take care of itself.” And that night at Sugarfish, they certainly cared for us, showcasing the essence of quality sushi with a simple touch. Trust me.
Award-winning architect C.P. Drewett designed this elegantly crafted modern home in north Scottsdale’s Estancia Golf Community.
With a nod toward Mid-Century Modernism, the home’s design takes full advantage of its unique setting. Pocketing doors slide open to allow full immersion with the outdoors, creating a pavilion-like ambience where the indoor/outdoor spaces meld into one another.
Now available! $8,750,00
Other features include a split primary suite, two guest suites, an office in the main house, and a detached guest casita with a bedroom suite and sitting area. A 1,322-squarefoot luxury car lounge provides the perfect setting to showcase your auto collection while entertaining.
Rebelles’ Cause with a
Two inspiring women participate in the Rebelle Rally to raise money for the B4BC charity.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
The Rebelle Rally is the first women’s off-road navigation rally in the United States. This competition is more than eight days long and challenges participants to navigate through open terrain using only maps, compasses and roadbooks. Participating in this experience requires a thirst for adventure and an impeccable sense of direction and place.
In addition to bragging rights, the Rebelle Rally winners also win money to be donated to a charity of their choice, which was the driving reason behind Louisa Bir’s decision to enter.
In 2022, Bir was diagnosed with HER2+ breast cancer; her world has never been the same since. Bir’s perseverance prevailed through countless treatments and surgeries, and she is now in remission. With a new perspective on life, Bir has decided to reinvent herself.
“This new year, I am reinventing myself, taking every opportunity and living every minute like it is my last,” Bir says. “Finding confidence again has been difficult, but it starts with one action at a time and moving in a new direction. I have decided to partake in the 2024 Rebelle Rally, an all-women’s off-road navigation rally raid in the United States. It’s been on my radar for nine years. It is the ultimate challenge of precise navigation by testing your skills on maps, compasses and road books over eight days.”
Such a task can only be completed with help, so Bir reached out to her longtime friend and fellow adventure seeker, Jordan Keeth.
“I couldn’t think of a better co-pilot in this insane endeavor, Jordan Keeth. When I called Jordan a couple of months ago about my crazy plan, I already knew her answer,” Bir says.
Bir and Keeth come from racing and off-roading backgrounds but are eager to hone their navigation and critical thinking skills, a task Rebelle Rally was made for.
The women signed up for a seven-day navigation dune driving course to fine-tune their skills. They have downloaded countless
materials on road navigation and plot points and have several weekends dedicated to going out with experienced individuals to get one-on-one coaching to prepare for the Rally, which begins in October 2024. They both understand the seriousness of this event and have committed to dedicating 2024 solely to the Rebelle Rally.
Both being very competitive individuals, this isn’t just something they plan on participating in; they are here to bring attention to the charity Boarding for Breast
Cancer (B4BC), a non-profit foundation established in 1996 with the mission of preparing people with education on early detection. They promote the importance of an active, healthy lifestyle as the best means of breast cancer prevention. B4BC also provides support for those affected by breast cancer.
Bir and Keeth are here to take their cause to the forefront of people’s minds by succeeding in this event as rookies, and I wish them the best of luck!
If you would like to support Bir and Keeth, scan to visit their GoFundMe page.
TRANSFO A TOTAL
RMATION
You’ll have to see this jaw-dropping transformation for yourself.
By Bailey Badillo
Photography by David Tsay
Ahome is a reflection of its people. When people with diverse dreams, passions and activities step into a home, it becomes a canvas for their unique stories. It’s a place where they can craft something entirely new, a space that resonates with their essence.
Nestled along the rugged coast of Pebble Beach, California, is a harmonious blend of elegance and casual charm. Here, the rhythm of ocean waves meets the greens of world-class golf courses. The natural beauty of craggy cliffs and serene beaches provides a stunning backdrop to this leisure playground, where exhilarating fun and quiet sophistication coexist in perfect balance.
Here, surfers carve through crystalline waves as golfers perfect their swing on emerald fairways, each breath imbued with the salty tang of the Pacific. It’s here where an unbelievable house transformation took place, from an outdated fixer-upper to a stunning coastal-chic escape.
THE PEBBLE BEACH HOUSE TRANSFORMATION
For Daniel Holbrook, project architect for the Feldman Architecture team that transformed this home, it’s about preserving what you can of a home’s original character. Well, most of the time, anyway.
“We pride ourselves in trying to respect the character of an existing home and preserve some of the existing details to incorporate it into the new design,” Holbrook explains. “There wasn’t much to preserve in this case. We were truly coming at it from the angle of transformation.”
Originally built around the 1970s, the home was what you might expect—dark and segmented. It needed love, attention and larger windows to fit the owner’s lifestyle.
THE OUTDOOR SANCTUARY
The couple, driven by their love for golfing and surfing, found their perfect retreat in this home. Its design was carefully crafted to facilitate an effortless indoor-outdoor transition, providing ample space for entertaining and a prime spot for watching golf pros in action from the backyard. Notably, the home is situated near the Monterey Peninsula Country Club, a renowned host of major golf tournaments, with the house’s back directly facing the golf course, offering unobstructed views of the fairway.
“The indoor-outdoor back patio component was a big part of the project,” Holbrook explains. “We took it further and connected the second story to a terrace to capture ocean views on the top.”
The exterior of the home, adorned with sleek wood panels and expansive glass windows, exudes a contemporary aesthetic that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. It serves as a testament to modern architectural elegance, a feature that is sure to captivate those with a taste for luxury and modern design.
The clean lines and minimalist design elements suggest a transformation from traditional to modern, capturing the essence of California’s laid-back yet sophisticated lifestyle.
The patio is a sanctuary of luxury and comfort that extends a warm invitation to bask in the perfect California weather. Its well-crafted wooden furniture, cozy fire pit and strategically placed greenery offer an ideal setting for entertaining guests or enjoying tranquil evenings under the stars.
The thoughtfully designed seating areas and open layout encourage relaxation and social gatherings, epitomizing the modern California dream of elegant, effortless living and making it a haven for the golf enthusiast.
THE INDOOR HAVEN
In the interior, you’ll notice the vibes of the surfer, with a charming, rustic look and open ocean views.
The expanded ground floor now includes a cozy guest suite, complemented by a full mud and laundry room. This leads us to the garage transformation, which kept the home’s “surf and turf” vibe. New roof decks grace either side of the house, offering serene views of the Pacific Ocean to the west and the verdant golf course and rear yard scenes to the east.
Throughout the home, modern elegance meets natural warmth in the design, enveloped by the graceful slant of a wooden ceiling and the soft glow of celestial pendant lights.
“We joke that it’s kind of like Malibu meets sea ranch style architecture,” Holbrook says. “The client grew up
ARCHITECT Feldman Architecture: Jonathan Feldman, FAIA, Project Principal; Daniel Holbrook, Project Architect; Evan McCurdy, Job Captain; Taisuke Ikegami, Project Architect. INTERIOR DESIGNER Raili CA Design. LANDSCAPE DESIGN Seven Springs Studio. GENERAL CONTRACTOR McNickle Construction. PHOTOGRAPHY David Tsay.
BEFORE
with a strong connection to sea ranch-style architecture… and they’re interested in surfing, so that was a big design driver for many of the material choices.”
Raili CA Design was the interior designer of the home. Their approach was to create a “modern surf shack.”
A glossy green backsplash complements the rustic, simple look. An inviting island serves as the heart of the room, flanked by stools in vibrant geometric patterns and cheerful yellow hues, adding whimsy to the earthy tones. Open shelving alongside the staircase displays a curated collection of everyday art—plates, bowls, mugs, and potted plants—infusing the space with personal warmth and lived-in charm.
“This is not a big house, so we tried really hard to be efficient about the storage and casework and utilize every space available,” Holbrook shares. “One of my favorite features was how we were able to highlight the staircase as it passed up above the kitchen and took advantage of the space underneath it. We were able to tuck a wine fridge under the staircase, which is always a plus.”
The clever use of space beneath the staircase provides additional storage, maintaining the room’s open, airy feel with clean, uninterrupted lines. A lighter, natural wood flooring ties the room together, grounding the airy heights with a sturdy foundation that invites barefoot treading.
The biggest transformation, however, is the family room. What was once a dim and cramped living area has blossomed into a luminous, double-height main living area on the ground floor. Ascend to the second level, where a library and work loft gaze down upon the spacious heart of the home, offering a serene and airy retreat tucked away from the lively rhythm below.
Within this home, you’ll also find many custom items, from shelving to tables, to truly make this one-of-a-kind. With two master suites, this is truly a haven away from home for the couple to get away and spend time embracing what they love to do.
“I love working with great clients and helping them evaluate how they live and find ways to improve,” says Holbrook. “I think we accomplished that with this home.”
WHY SHAPE MATTERS
Maximilian Riedel, of Riedel, The Wine Glass Company, explains the effect of wine glass shape on its taste.
By Fran Miller
There is little doubt that a beautifully manufactured wine glass elevates the aesthetic and enjoyment of wine tasting. Design, material, balance and weight all play a critical role in influencing how a wine is perceived. A thin rim makes sipping more pleasurable. Clarity of the glass enhances a wine’s color and appearance. And perhaps most importantly, bowl shape can amplify a wine’s scent and flavor. And no one knows this better than Riedel, The Wine Glass Company.
Renowned for its high-quality, hand-blown and machine-made crystal glasses, family-run Riedel was founded in 1756 by Johann Leopold Riedel in Bohemia in the Czech Republic. Initially focused on glassmaking, the company later specialized in wine glasses and eventually revolutionized the industry by creating glasses designed to enhance the flavors and aromas of specific wines. This innovative approach led to the development of varietal-specific glassware, a brand hallmark.
“We were the first in history to discover how the size and shape of a wine glass ultimately impact how wine is perceived and enjoyed,” says Maximilian Riedel, 11th-generation CEO and current president of the company. “A wine glass serves as the introductory element to the wine-tasting experience, and each of our glasses is fine-tuned to the wine they were designed for.
“In general, a larger bowl will allow for quicker alcohol evaporation, which brings out the fruit aromas and flavors of a wine,” he explains. “A glass with a wider rim will welcome oxygen into the glass, which will aerate the wine and release its aromas. The shape and angle of the rim determine where the wine will fall on the palate, ultimately affecting our perception of the wine’s flavors.”
Riedel explains that smaller bowls will concentrate flavors more, which is excellent for certain white wines,
such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc. “I would like to use the example of pouring oaked Chardonnay into an incorrect Riesling glass, which would completely stifle the wine. Although both are white wines, oaked Chardonnay requires a larger bowl to aerate and open up.”
Since the company’s first collection of varietal-specific wine glasses, introduced in 1973, Riedel has continued to innovate. Core Riedel collections include Riedel Sommeliers, which started the empire Riedel has built.
The Riedel Vinum series, created by Georg J. Riedel (10th generation) in 1986, was the first machine-made, affordable, varietal-specific glassware series and remains Riedel’s best-selling collection.
The Riedel “O” 2004 collection was designed by Maximilian, who wanted a stemless wine glass for everyday use that was beautiful, stackable, and slightly more casual than other Riedel collections.
Riedel Performance was introduced in 2018 and was the brand’s first series of glassware to feature bowls with a light optic impact, which positively impacts your perception and offers a heightened experience of the wine’s bouquet and flavor.
The Riedel Veloce machine-made series, launched in 2022, looks and feels handmade. Released in 2023, the Riedel Superleggero series introduces its largest, thinnest and lightest collection of eight varietal-specific styles, created using proprietary machine-made technology.
“The best characteristics of any wine you serve are significantly more noticeable and enjoyable when served in the proper glass,” says Maximilian Riedel. “Our glasses deliver the best a wine has to offer, enhancing its unique aromas and flavors to each part of the palate.”
Riedel also offers an extensive portfolio of decanter options and bar collections with cocktail-specific glassware.
PINK THE HOUSE
This Spinnaker Development renovation brings Colonial Revival southern charm to Dover Shores.
By Taylor Transtrum
Photography by Ryan Garvin Photography
Known throughout the community as “The Pink House,” this charming Dover Shores dwelling is located in Newport Beach’s coveted Hampton Court cul-de-sac.
The stately 7,000-square-foot, two-story residence has five bedrooms and five bathrooms and sits on 1.3 acres. Additional areas include a formal dining room, wet bar, spacious kitchen, multiple lounge spaces,
playroom, private study, pool, three-car garage and a putting green.
Initially built in 1994, the home’s Colonial Revival exterior was designed to look decades older.
“Honestly, this one does not really fit into the local program,” Mike Close, owner and founder of Spinnaker Development, says. “It looks like it fell out
INTERIOR DESIGNER Wendi Young Design. LANDSCAPE DESIGNER Chelsea Corinne Studio. BUILDER Spinnaker Development. PHOTOGRAPHY Ryan Garvin Photography.
of the South, with its Charleston Colonial design, which is so highly unique for this area, and why this project has garnered so much attention. The original home was pink and beloved by many, so we chose not to change that color scheme due to its history.”
After spending years searching with Close for their forever home, the clients realized they had found a gem.
“When I first toured this home, it reminded me of the one I grew up in,” Close remarks. “And when we toured the property together, we all had that shared feeling of belonging. I recall saying, ‘This is the one. We can do damage here, my friend.’”
Not a single detail was missed during the restoration process, allowing the developer and his team to preserve as much of the home’s roots as possible.
“The entry is striking,” he says of the renovated house. “You are welcomed by the restored, lacquered, quarter-sawn walnut flooring with a bold pop of color in the walls and surrounding fabrics. The new iron railings establish a more refined, sculptural look to the staircase and bridge above. The entry foyer immediately leads to the dining, living and lounge areas, adorned with bold colors and rich textured upholstery. It evokes the feeling of entering a charming resort in the South.”
With the help of Wendi Young, founder of Wendi Young Design, a refined yet playful color palette marked by varying hues of pink and green with splashes of earth tones laid the foundation for the home’s aesthetic. Every inch of the residence is thoughtfully designed, from paint and wallpaper selections to its textural furnishings and artwork.
In collaboration with Chelsea Edmonston, founder of Chelsea Corinne Studio, Young masterfully brought the home’s interior flair to the exterior, adding decorative shutters in a contrasting green to accent the pink facade and milky-colored millwork.
The kitchen is best described as cozy, vintage and functional. Original features include a reworked brick-clad fireplace, the room’s center point, and vintage black-and-white checkered marble flooring. After being repolished and restored, the flooring was patchworked back into the kitchen to accommodate the new layout, and it was installed in several bathrooms to create visual cohesion.
The design team also preserved a rare, vintage commercial Wolf gas range and oven by fully rebuilding it and finishing it with powder coating. Above the range, Taj Mahal quartzite was chosen for the backsplash and countertops, and a sizeable kitchen island was installed. The cabinetry is a deep sage green, keeping with the home’s color palette.
“Wendi and the client designed a very inviting breakfast banquet, custom-built and upholstered,” Close says. “The banquet is surrounded by large architectural windows, offering a great backyard view and adding an enormous amount of natural light.”
The landscape includes well-manicured hedges and towering, decades-old trees that provide optimal shade and privacy. An outdoor oasis in the backyard, with five-star resort-style amenities, consists of a modern, low-profile infinity pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, pool bath and shower.
The backyard’s social hub, a cabana custom-built by Chelsea Corinne Studio, is the ideal space to enjoy alfresco living. It has a
permanent roof structure and includes comfortable seating, a flat-screen TV, a fireplace and flush-mounted heaters.
“It’s pretty fun taking my family over for barbecues and pool parties after the project’s completion,” Close admits. He credits the clients and his team for making the renovation—a dream project—possible.
“It was the clients’ first home purchase and construction project,” Close points out. “This can be very daunting for most. It was put on high octane very quickly, and the trust and confidence the entire team provided us was massive. It was one of the more rewarding projects I’ve been associated with in many years.”
DES IGN ERS DYNAMIC
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Portrait Photography by Mark Sacro
Introducing Orange County’s 2024 Top Designers Year Three.
Top Designer is a legacy Publisher Renee Dee built to recognize and showcase the amazing talent behind some of Orange County’s most opulent and extravagant homes. Each year, a handful of designers are awarded Top Designer for their innovative designs, unique approaches and incredible work ethics.
Please join us in congratulating 2024’s Top Designer inductees: Errol Dejager, Summer Jensen, Denise Morrison, Jen Samson and Wendi Young. These five incredible designers continue to push the envelope of innovation in the interior design industry with every new project they complete.
And when we talked with each of them at the photoshoot, we learned that while they have great design in common, they are so different in ways that make them that much more special.
DYNAMIC DESIGNERS
ERROL DEJAGER
DEJAGER DESIGN
Errol Dejager is the founding principal of Dejager Design Inc., a full-service interior design firm with offices in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills. With more than 30 years of experience working with world-renowned architects and builders, his specialty is interior architecture and design in the luxury, high-end residential market.
He is currently developing projects in Los Angeles, Orange County and Miami that range from 4,500 to 105,000 square feet. Many will never be seen by the world given extensive NDAs.
Dejager’s highly personable and creative approach has awarded him many unique opportunities to develop and build a portfolio of eclectic, elegant, holistic design work. He also prioritizes integrating technology into the design process and the home.
In order to help clients connect with the projects and truly understand the development of the spaces, he creates a 3D model into which clients can step using an Oculus. He understands the complex emotional journey of building and designing a home, and he seeks to tame the emotion in favor of advocacy for the overall project, which helps keep things on track and ultimately delights his clients in the end.
Though creating beautiful interior spaces is his core passion, Dejager’s background in architecture, landscape design and construction has given him a unique understanding of the entire process and has allowed him to be a valued team member. Ultimately, he is inspired by the continual expansion of technologies and collaborations he enjoys with clients, leading architects, designers and contractors.
DYNAMIC DESIGNERS
SUMMER JENSEN
HAWK + CO.
Summer Jensen is the principal and founder of Hawk + Co., a prestigious interior design firm in Laguna Beach. Jensen’s work is undeniably luxurious, underpinned by a minimalist, idyllic, geometric aesthetic. With an eye for detail, no element is overlooked, and no shape is taken for granted. This meticulous approach results in a unique blend of minimalistic elegance.
Jensen’s palette of choice is neutrals, carefully chosen to evoke a connection with nature, enhancing the timeless appeal of her designs. She believes that Mother Nature is the greatest artist.
The designer likes to harmonize her clients’ spaces and advocates for Biophilic design, which aims to reconnect people with the natural world. Inventive problem-solving and Jensen’s technical skill set provide a path for her dynamic designs. With her unique perspective and intuitive understanding of her clients’ needs, Jensen excels in interior design.
The designer’s work has garnered global recognition, with features in top titles such as Interior Design Magazine, CA Home + Design, Forbes, Mansion Global, and Business of Home .
Her expertise and achievements have been acknowledged with various accolades, including winning the Platinum and WOW awards in the Single-Family Custom Home category for the Best in American Living Awards (BALA) in 2021, The Gold Nugget Awards Grand Award for Best Custom Home 7,500 to 9,000 sq. ft. in 2024, the Best Residential Build Award form CA Home + Design in 2022, and the Fantini Design Award for excellence in bathroom design.
Additionally, Jensen has forged partnerships with leading industry brands, including Snyder Diamond and Gaggenau, sharing her knowledge and expertise through collaboration. Jensen is a CID/NCIDQ-certified interior designer.
DYNAMIC DESIGNERS
DENISE MORRISON
MORRISON INTERIORS
Denise Morrison is a celebrated interior designer known for her distinctive approach to new luxury construction. As the founder and principal designer of Morrison Interiors in Costa Mesa, she has significantly impacted the industry with her unique design philosophy.
Morrison was born and raised in Southern California. From a young age, she was captivated by the idea of redesigning her family’s homes and was constantly moving furniture to enhance comfort and beauty. This early passion led her to study fine art, where she unveiled her trademark design principle: tension.
Morrison’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that a home is a place where our best memories are made, and family and friends gather over good wine, food and conversation. “Creating spaces that facilitate these memories is my passion,” she says.
A repeat Luxe RED Awards winner and a 2024 international finalist for the Andrew
Martin Award, Morrison is a prominent speaker at industry events, including Las Vegas Market’s Best of the West, and High Point Market’s Best of Market Style Spotter. She has also shared her insights on various vendor and editorial platforms and was a guest on the Design Biz Survival Guide podcast.
Morrison’s career took off after she re-entered school at the Interior Design Institute in Newport Beach, following a period as a stay-at-home mom. Her business grew into a family-centered enterprise. In 2016, she launched a second business, House of Morrison, as a retail store. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it transformed into a trade-only source for bespoke luxury case goods and upholstery and is a trusted trade partner for many in the design industry.
Morrison Interiors continues to grow, focusing on luxury projects nationwide. The designer’s dedication to incorporating unique and special details into every project ensures that each home reflects her clients’ lifestyles and aspirations.
DYNAMIC DESIGNERS
JEN SAMSON
Jen Samson is the principal designer at Jen Samson Design in Laguna Beach, a boutique design firm that offers a full range of creative services rooted in passionate and inspired design. JSD focuses on various residential and commercial projects, working closely with clients to deliver their unique aesthetic while meeting their lifestyle needs. Along with a penchant for one-of-akind vintage, antique, and bespoke pieces, Samson has the innate ability to create spaces that are altogether modern, eclectic and unique.
Samson has always wanted to design beautiful spaces that reflect her clients’ sense of home. She spent the earlier years of her career honing her keen eye and passion for all things beautiful. She helped build
lifestyle-driven programming for “E!” and the “Style Network.” She then went on to work for renowned luxury fashion house Salvatore Ferragamo as the director of West Coast public relations. Before jumping full steam into interior design, Samson also created and launched a successful artisan-crafted, hand-crocheted shoe brand, Painted Bird.
JSD has built a reputation for beautiful, unexpected design that sparks intrigue and self-expression. Samson is known for combining styles and forging sophisticated but relaxed modern spaces, often playful and always distinctive. Inspired by world travel, culture, fashion and interiors, both new and old, the designer brings a curated, unique abandon to every project, leaving a lasting impression.
Photography by Chad Mellon
JEN SAMSON DESIGN
DYNAMIC DESIGNERS
WENDI YOUNG
Wendi Young, principal of Wendi Young Design in Newport Beach, is a seasoned professional passionate about creating spaces that captivate the senses, elevate emotions and enhance well-being. Throughout her career, she’s been able to transform a wide range of environments and blend styles to craft unique and harmonious spaces.
Young’s love for the transformative power of design started at a young age. This fascination led her to pursue a formal education in design. She graduated as the Valedictorian from the Interior Design Institute with her associates degree, then went on to California State University, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree.
For Young, design is deeply spiritual. She believes in tuning into a space’s intrinsic energy and letting it guide the creative process. This intuitive approach, combined
with her technical expertise, helps her create environments that resonate with her clients.
To Young, listening closely to a client’s desires and aspirations is the key to a successful project, and she always strives to exceed expectations. Young’s reverence for collaborating with a creative team has helped her build long-lasting relationships with many clients and collaborators who return for multiple projects.
Young’s passion for design extends beyond the profession. She has a strong interest in art, nature and human design. Understanding what each individual intrinsically needs in their space drives her design. Whether integrating natural components into a design or fostering community and connection, she finds joy in every part of the creative process. The designer’s bucket list includes working on such dream projects as renovating a cool boutique hotel and building a wellness center.
WENDI YOUNG DESIGN
ALICE AND OLIVIA
Corine Mini Dress. Via Alice and Olivia.
Photo courtesy of Alice and Olivia
fashion
FORECAST
FALLing In love with this year’s Fall fashion trends.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
It is the most anticipated time of the year in the fashion industry, Fall. Top designers and fashion houses are debuting the latest trends and setting the tone of what’s haute for the season at fashion weeks around the world.
Fashion is one of my favorite topics because of how unpredictable it is! You never know what you’re going to see next. While a big fashion enthusiast, I am no expert but I suspect bold patterns and exaggerated silhouettes to be a common theme this year, I also suspect that color contradiction within ensembles may also be seen. Time will only tell if my predictions are correct!
We have asked some local fashion experts to speak more about the latest fashion trends gracing the runways.
Gabie Archuleta
Store Manager at Alice and Olivia
Gabie Archuleta is the highly motivated store manager at Alice and Olivia. With more than seven years of experience in luxury retail, Archuleta is always in the know of the latest trends and styles that Alice and Olivia set.
“I believe 2024 fall fashion will be a testament to the idea that fashion is truly an artform,” Archuleta says. “Alice and Olivia will take the lead with large-scale florals that create striking statements, while blending the retro charm of the 60s with contemporary classics.
Expect to see a bold presence of multimedia AI prints, adding a futuristic edge. Additionally, the ICONIC leopard print will make a significant comeback, bringing the bold and timeless element back into the spotlight.
This blend of art-inspired designs will create a dynamic and visually captivating Fall wardrobe. I’m excited to bring these trends to life with our clients and see how everyone puts their own unique twist on them.”
ALICE AND OLIVIA
Katz Maxi Skirt. Via Alice and Olivia.
Photos courtesy of Alice and Olivia
ALICE AND OLIVIA
Monika Maxi Dress. Anthony Blazer. Via Alice and Olivia.
ESSENTIEL ANTWERP
CULT GAIA
Sadia Jacket. Via Cult Gaia
Straight-leg patchwork
blue jeans. Via Essentiel Antwerp.
SMYTHE
Smythe
Swing Coat. Via Smythe.
Amy Yount
Owner of Amy Atelier and MAN Atelier
Amy Yount is a fashion expert with a long and impressive history in the industry. She attended the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and the Fashion Institute of Technology and has worked for various high-end fashion brands in New York and LA. Yount opened her business, Amy Inc. (now Amy Atelier), in 2005 and has been a leading fashion boutique in the valley since, recently branching into the menswear market with MAN Atelier.
“The first trend this Fall is the jacket. There is no need for basics regarding the jacket this season,” Yount says. “Ditch your classic peacoat for architectural silhouettes, oversized prints and fur that truly take center stage when bundling up pics of Cult Gaia Sadia Jacket, Smythe Swing Coat.
Another hot trend is liquid leather fabric, which drapes our clients this season. This fabric has an almost liquid appearance, most commonly faux leather. Simple, everyday silhouettes took hold of this trend, making date night tops and girly sets eye-catching with minimal effort.
Finally, denim is going to be a returning trend this Fall. From works of art to illusion and patchwork denim, freshening your Fall jeans has never been easier. Interesting denim paired with fitted classics on top is an easy way to feel see-and-be-seen ready for a night at The Ambassador.”
As Fall fashion weeks take center stage, I am sure we will see all these trends discussed here and more take the runway in the coming weeks.
CULT GAIA Sadia Jacket. Via Cult Gaia
NEED FOR SPEED
Discover the Ferrari F1 car, the blueprint for exhilaration.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Ferrari is a brand that embodies excellence in craftsmanship, performance, endurance, luxury and tradition. It represents passion and ingenuity and sets the precedent for quality that other brands strive to match. Not only are its street cars the cars to own, turning the heads of other drivers religiously, but the Formula One cars take artistry and performance precision to a whole new level.
Enzo Ferrari’s passion for racing fueled him to create Ferrari, which became not only a staple luxury car brand, but also the world’s greatest and oldest Formula One racing team winning 16 Formula One World Constructors’ Championships, more than any other team.
“Enzo started Ferrari by building racing cars, and street cars came along to help support the cost of racing,” Gary Simon, Ferrari’s brand manager, says. “Racing has been the company’s focus since the very beginning.”
Strict Formula One car regulations require all cars to have similar body styles and parts. Four manufacturers supply engines for racing teams, and Ferrari is one of them.
The V-6 hybrid turbo power units with 1.6-liter engines produce up to 1,000 horsepower, a maximum speed of 233 miles per hour and can put up to five or six G-forces on the racers handling these exquisite machines.
A Formula One car’s unmatched performance and sleek design, based on maximizing aerodynamic efficiency, make it a living work of art. Intricate parts and details of the car are modified and perfected after every race in hopes of securing a podium position and potential championship title.
“A Formula One car is basically an upside-down airplane wing,” Simon explains. “In airplanes, wings create lift, and when you turn that concept upside down, it creates
downforce that grounds the car onto the track, allowing it to go around faster than any other race car.”
According to Simon, turning a Formula One car into a winning vehicle takes a village. “An average Formula One team now has two cars and two drivers, but it takes about 600 people to engineer and support a Formula One car,” he says. “It’s no small process. To put things in perspective, almost one-third of people who work for the Ferrari company are involved in racing. It’s a huge part of Ferrari’s identity.”
So, what is it about the ICONIC red Ferrari Formula One team that produces so many champions? Some might attribute it to Ferrari’s long history of racing, as that was the brand’s original focus when it was created in 1947, and it was the first team to join Formula One. Others might say it’s because of Ferrari’s meticulous craftsmanship and advanced technology to produce the best aerodynamic
results, but for Simon, it’s the team’s and racers’ passion. The same love that fueled Enzo to create the empire Ferrari is today.
“Ferrari is the most famous racing team. It is the dream of every driver to end up in a Formula One car racing for Ferrari,” Simon says. “Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One world championship winner for Mercedes, has decided he wants to spend his last years racing with Ferrari. Why would a guy who has been with Mercedes for 11 years and has won several championships make a change like that? It’s because he wants to race for the most renowned team in Formula One. He wants to end his career wearing a red suit and driving a red car.”
Enzo Ferrari’s legacy continues to live on, and his passion for exhilaration and perfection is reflected in every street car, every Formula One car, every team member, every racer and every Ferrari fan.
by Sergi Jasanada
Photography
USING HER VOICE
Opera star Joyce DiDonato melds performance with teaching.
By Nora Burba Trulsson
by Sergi Jasanada
Photography
In her downtime, Joyce DiDonato listens to Bach in the morning “to clear the cobwebs,” Buena Vista Social Club when she needs a lift during the day, and meditative harmonics to wind down at night. “It’s like I travel to Germany, Cuba and India musically throughout the day,” she says.
Not that this global opera star and Grammy Award winner has any downtime these days, nor does she need to pad her flight miles. Splitting time between her Kansas City, Mo., hometown and a residence in Spain, DiDonato spent part of the summer headlining recitals in Baden-Baden, then traveled to South America and back to Europe for performances of her narrative-driven, environmentally-themed staged concert “Eden.” This fall, she’s at Carnegie Hall teaching master classes, followed by recitals and opera roles booked through 2025.
However, assuming the mantle of an internationally known superstar was not the original plan for mezzo-soprano DiDonato. Music was always part of the household growing up in a large family. “I was the biggest choir and drama geek in school,” she recalls. “At home, everyone listened to all kinds of music. My older brother listened to Deep Purple in the basement, and my father tuned into ‘Live at the Met’ on the radio on Saturday afternoons. He’d also invite me to watch opera performances on PBS.”
Opera didn’t quite click with DiDonato at first. Instead, she went to Wichita State University to study music education, inspired by her high school choir teacher. She also studied voice, thinking it would make her a better teacher. It was then and there, that opera captivated her. “I found opera by singing it,” she says. “It pulled me in. I was singing some of the best poetry ever written about the human condition.”
By her senior year of college, she pivoted to opera performance but did a semester of student teaching. “It was hard,” she says. “It was a rough school, and the need there was so big. I felt like I should be in the classroom but wanted to be on the stage.” Conflicted, she followed her father’s advice. “He said that there was more than one way to teach.”
DiDonato devoted herself to opera, studying, getting coached and waiting tables in Philadelphia, Houston and New York. Her break came in 1998 when she won the second prize in Operalia, the world opera competition founded by Plácido Domingo. A London talent manager sought her out, and a few years later, she was cast as Rosina in a new production of “The Barber of Seville” by the Paris Opera.
"I FOUND OPERA BY SINGING IT, IT PULLED ME IN. I WAS SINGING SOME OF THE BEST POETRY EVER WRITTEN ABOUT THE HUMAN CONDITION."
TOP & RIGHT: Photography by Kyle Flubacker Photography. MIDDLE &
BOTTOM: Photography by
Cate Pisaroni.
“For years, I was the go-to Rosina,” DiDonato says. “I debuted in a lot of top houses with her. I understood her character.”
DiDonato famously took the phrase “break a leg” literally with Rosina on the opening night of a production at the Royal Opera House in London. She tripped, broke her leg, then finished that night’s performance on a cane and the rest of the shows in a wheelchair, with a pink cast that matched her costume.
Along the way, she learned to sing in French, German, Italian and Spanish and even tackled the conversational basics of the languages. “It’s a lot of work,” she explains. “Right now, I’m learning to sing in Czech. I’ve also sung in ancient Greek.”
DiDonato learned to be flexible about venues and dressing rooms.
“There are places that have no AC and are old and moldy. All I need is water and a good night’s sleep to put me in my best place and to focus on the music," she says.
As her career blossomed, DiDonato recalled her father’s advice about seeking opportunities to teach and found ways to give back. She took the Metropolitan Opera’s production of “Dead Man Walking” to Sing Sing Correctional Facility in New York, where she taught inmates to become part of the chorus.
The “Eden” project, which she calls “not quite an opera, not quite a musical, not a recital,” includes four centuries of music and a new piece commissioned from Rachel Portman, the Academy Awardwinning British composer. DiDonato performs in “Eden,” but for her, the most important aspects are the kid’s workshops on environmental issues and the local children’s choirs included in the performances.
“We’ve worked with more than 3,000 kids so far,” she says.
For her master classes at Carnegie Hall, she spends mornings in private sessions, then opens things up to the public in the afternoon.
“The audience learns how to listen, too,” DiDonato notes.
As she continues stepping onto ICONIC stages worldwide, the opera star is grateful for where her voice has led her. “When I started, the most I’d hoped for was to have some kind of regional role near my home in Kansas City,” she says. “But when I come to a place like Carnegie Hall, I know it’s a place of legends—it’s like the ghosts are holding my hand. I don’t get stage fright—I’m excited about each performance. I know my role is to give the audience an extraordinary experience.”
by
Photography
Kyle Flubacker Photography
ProvençalPERFECTION
Go for the wine, stay for the art.
By Fran Miller
Photography by Daniel Buren
Fine wine, destination-level cuisine, a delightful B&B and an art gallery. La Commanderie de Peyrassol is the fabulous sum of these stellar parts. Each attribute is worthy of a visit to this Provençal gem, known primarily for its beautiful rosé wines. With the addition of two fabulous restaurants, enchanting overnight accommodations and a world-class, museum-worthy art collection, this lovely wine estate provides guests with an unforgettable French fantasy.
Founded 800 years ago by the Knights of Templar, La Commanderie de Peyrassol has thrived as a sanctuary for travelers for centuries. Chosen for its secluded location in Flassans-sur-Issole in southeastern France and for the area’s spiritual energy, the site was once devoted to hosting Crusaders on their way to the Holy Land. The Knights of Malta eventually took over until the French Revolution, when the state assumed the site.
In the late 18th century, La Commanderie de Peyrassol was acquired by the Rigord family, who owned it for generations until French entrepreneur Philippe Austruy purchased the property in 2001. Austruy, a connoisseur of wine and art, has created a unique destination he passionately desires to share with the public. As a result, the wine estate continues to serve as a haven for visitors—those seeking an authentic, indulgent and entirely distinctive Provençal getaway.
THE REGION
Located in the foothills of the Massif des Maures, ten miles from the Mediterranean Sea between Cannes and Marseille, La Commanderie de Peyrassol resides within 850 hectares, of which 95 are planted with vines. Fourteen varietals flourish on the estate’s dry, rocky clay and limestone soils. La Commanderie de Peyrassol has consciously maintained organic practices with full respect for the surrounding environment. No synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or fungicides are used in the vineyards, which are split into three areas, each suited for red, white or rosé grapes.
The estate’s natural ecosystem is a refuge for various flora and fauna. Ancient white oaks and varied pines are silhouetted against the blue Provençal sky. A magnificent and striking forest of Atlas cedars and maple trees mingle with the rich maquis shrubland of poppies, rosehip shrubs, juniper, crown-of-thorns, filaria, and other flora. Many animal species inhabit the woods: Hermann’s tortoise, stone grasshoppers, Cleopatra and Swallowtail butterflies, Eurasian eagle owls, woodpeckers and a few wolves populate the estate. Highlighting the particularity of this biodiversity, the National Inventory of Natural Heritage has classified the ecosystem as a natural area of environmental interest.
THIS PAGE:
Top:
Photography by Sislej Xhafa.
Bottom: Photography by Fran Miller. RIGHT PAGE:
Top Left:
Photography by CGoussard.
Top Right: Courtesy of Peyrassol. Middle:
Photography by Olivier Monge. Bottom:
Photography by Erwan Fiquet
THE CUISINE
Gastronomy is nearly as crucial to La Commanderie de Peyrassol as its wines. The property boasts two restaurants, each a destination for visiting and overnight guests. The enchanting Chez Jeannette is the property’s fine dining establishment overseen by Chef de Cuisine Vivien Rouleaud. Set among the vineyards, it features an al fresco patio that’s the ideal spot for an aperitif. Chez Jeannette offers seasonal cuisine prepared using the best Provençal products, many of which come directly from the La Commanderie de Peyrassol vegetable garden.
Think Pot-au-Feu: a popular French dish made of slowly-broiled meat and vegetables in ravioli, served in a lightly truffled broth; coeurs d’artichauts (artichoke hearts) steamed within fig leaves; and rich and luscious ris de veau (sweetbread) each dish artistically plated. Chef Rouleaud and his team take center stage in the open kitchen, allowing diners a peek into their culinary artistry.
Le Bistrot de Lou is the place for a proper Provençal lunch, enjoyed within the village square under the canopy of shade trees. Bountiful salads and simple, succulent beef, pork and fish dishes cooked over an open flame are perfectly paired with the estate’s wines. The Thursday evening “Sunset at Peyrassol” is popular with locals. It is a convivial al fresco summer concert series and the perfect backdrop for the restaurant’s excellent charcuterie, cheeses, estate wines and cocktails.
THE HOSPITALITY
In creating La Commanderie de Peyrassol as a beacon of hospitality, Austruy purchased a charming country home within walking distance of the winery and refurbished it as a period-authentic, welcoming B&B. Bastide de la Rouvière dates to 1835; its varied rooms feature genuine French decor and antiques. Perfect for a romantic weekend getaway in any season, La Rouvière, surrounded by lush greenery and gardens, is peaceful and tranquil.
A swimming pool features a comfy chaise lounge area and the relaxed sophistication of the living room creates a space to enjoy a digestif of Port while communing with fellow guests by a roaring fire. A gracious buffet breakfast is offered each morning. Enjoy croissants, cakes, cappuccinos, yogurt, farm-fresh eggs and freshly squeezed orange juice. Make your stay even more relaxing by booking a wellness massage. Several inviting rooms are also offered in the heart of the La Commanderie de Peyrassol.
THIS PAGE: Top Left and Bottom: Photography by Fran Miller. Top Right: Photography by Daniel Buren.
RIGHT
PAGE:
Photography by Joana Vasconcelos.
THE ART
Passionate about contemporary art, Austruy, together with Valérie Bach, owner of Galerie La Patinoire Royale Bach in Brussels, dreamed of transforming La Commanderie de Peyrassol into an open-air museum, with individual pieces displayed in symbiosis with the outdoor environment.
La Commanderie de Peyrassol now serves as Europe’s premier monumental sculpture park, bringing together the works of more than 50 top artists from all corners of the globe, representing a range of mediums. Buildings, gardens and forest trails are filled with Austruy’s world-class collection, which includes art by Bernar Venet, Daniel Buren, Frank Stella, Jesús-Rafael Soto, Jaume Plensa, and numerous others.
Sculptures rise within the vineyard and lurk within woodland paths. A trail map leads guests to colorful and whimsical works that complement, and sometimes conflict, with the natural environment. The entire property is a feast for the senses.
Since 2016, the collection’s most delicate works have been housed in a concrete and Corten steel setting designed by architect Charles Berthier in the heart of the vineyards. An artistic entity, the space is bathed in a well of light and features both permanent and temporary exhibits. Here, you’ll find dedicated spaces with pieces by some of the most famous modern and contemporary art names, such as Jean Dubuffet and Sol LeWitt. (This space is open via guided tour only.)
THE WINE
Last but not least are the wines of La Commanderie de Peyrassol. Delicate, ethereal and purely Provençal, La Commanderie de Peyrassol’s rosé wines are a beautiful and delicious representation of the Côtes de Provence region. Rosé is what the winery is most known for, yet La Commanderie de Peyrassol also makes silky, full-bodied reds and elegant, light whites, each perfectly expressing the terroir from which it emanates.
As of its 2022 vintage, La Commanderie de Peyrassol now only produces certified organic wines, an outstanding achievement reinforcing the winery’s pioneering status. The domain’s most prestigious cuvée is Le Clos Peyrassol, a pale pink rosé blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Tibouren that received Wine Advocate accolades in 2020, tying for first place as the best Côte de Provence Rosé.
Le Clos Peyrassol Red is primarily Syrah, with a slight blend of Cabernet (~10%) and has a beautiful garnet-black color. Balsamic and smoky notes give this wine a wild, intense character. And Le Clos Peyrassol Blanc de Blanc is a golden Rolle of finesse and elegance. All wines can be sampled and purchased at the estate.
Philippe Austruy is also the owner of several other estates in France and Europe, including the Château Malescasse in the Haut-Médoc, the Quinta da Côrte in the Douro and the Case Nuove in Tuscany.
Château
D’Asie
This 230,000 square-foot estate will take your breath away.
By Nakayla Shakespeare | Photography by Sargent Photography
Settled on 30 acres within lush emerald foliage somewhere in Asia lies a 250,000-square-foot multi-generational French-château-inspired estate equipped with every amenity imaginable. The property’s exquisite detail, sheer luxury and grand composition is nothing short of breathtaking.
The unique French château-inspired architecture in the natural Asian terrain (hence where the story’s title Château D’Asie came from) is only one of the components that makes this compound so special.
The land was initially barren and empty. To create seclusion and privacy for the family, who has a genuine passion for trees, Robert Truskowski, landscape architect and founder of Robert E. Truskowski Inc., masterfully prepared the landscape plans for the entire estate.
This architectural masterpiece is the product of the acclaimed Landry Design Group (LDG), a high-end
residential architecture firm renowned for its luxurious projects. And Geoffrey Bradfield and Roric Tobin, two esteemed interior designers who incorporated multi-generational aesthetics into a cohesive narrative where every room tells a different story and reflects the personality of that family member.
“The client really wanted a house that would stand the test of time and last for multiple generations to come,” Richard Landry, president and founder of LDG, says. “They also wanted to go beyond that and create a legacy for their family.”
Upon entering the estate through a beautiful French limestone gatehouse, a cobblestone driveway lined with trees and greenery circles around into a beautiful entry court that leads to the main property. Here, a fountain is surrounded with decorative floral landscaping. “We wanted to create an expectation and layer the arrival experience,” Landry explains.
The main property is a tripartite structure with the primary residential building in the middle and two houses flanked on either side—each of which feature symmetrical rectangular pools and beautifully landscaped gardens groomed in swirling patterns.
“All three of the homes in the tripartite structure are connected by ground-level galleries and a basement where the movie theater, casino, ballroom, bowling alley and staff quarters are located,” Landry says. “This is where the family can come together and connect with each other for fun and indoor leisure.”
The owner’s love for 18th-century French architecture is reflected in this home. From the authentic French limestone of which the house is constructed to the hand-carved embellishments and linework found within the limestone throughout the property.
“The clients brought in a stone carver from France who set up shop on the site and hand-carved the stone, showing the traditional craftsmanship that went into buildings during the 18th century,” Landry remarks. “It’s amazing. It was done like it would have been done in the old days.”
While Landry wanted to emulate the look of a French château, he prided himself on taking a unique approach to crafting 18th-century-inspired architecture. “I’m always inspired by these architectural precedents but never recreate a particular château. We design for a modern lifestyle,” Landry says.
“This project stands out as a representation that while modern architecture has continued to grow in popularity, there is still a place for classically designed homes inspired by the grandeur and detailed craftsmanship of historical estates in Europe,” LDG partner, Mark Savary adds.
The main property’s architectural and landscape work is awe-inspiring. However, the estate spans farther than just the primary residence. The Asia Palace estate has many unique features. These include a sports pavilion with an indoor pool, formal gardens, secret gardens, vegetable gardens, a 4-acre man-made lake with pagodas and boats, a jogging path around the estate, a casino, library, a secluded tea house inspired by Chinese architecture, an art studio, a formal theater, a karaoke lounge, a bowling alley, a traditional ballroom, a resort-style spa, tennis courts, and guest housing to accommodate staff and close friends.
“The great thing about this project is that it mixes the formal and informal together,” Landry explains. “Not everything is taken too seriously. There are architectural follies, gardens, playgrounds for the children and tennis courts.”
Bradfield and Tobin had worked on previous projects with Landry and were an excellent fit to deliver the homeowners’ vision and needs, a task they executed flawlessly.
The interiors reflect each family member’s style and needs, with art and furniture that speak to the individual. Working with a multitude of color schemes and furnishings, the result is a compound that tells the story of a family through the eyes of each generation.
“There is a cohesion of design throughout the home, because the three main homes are connected,” Roric Tobin, principal designer of Roric Tobin Designs, explains. “But the parents’ home is the most traditional and formal as far as aesthetics go, and then you get a younger and more contemporary feeling as you transition to the children’s’ homes. Different color schemes and art collections vary based on the homeowner’s taste. The mother’s taste is traditional, while the daughter-in-law is more interested in collecting 21st-century art. But it’s not like you open a door and are suddenly in a different world.”
The main residential building reflects a much more classical and refined aesthetic with mahogany and iron doors and railings adorned with gold floral work, classically inspired furniture and artwork by luminaries including Fernando Botero.
The library in the central residence is a testament to classical French architecture and interiors. The undulating facades of the millwork designed by LDG soften the room’s rectangularity. The white oak floor’s chevron pattern is complemented by the chocolate and cream palette of the library’s furnishings, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for indulging in the multitude of books stacked on crowned millwork shelving.
The oval drawing room is the centerpiece of the primary household. Flooded with natural light from grand 36-foottall windows, which prompt picturesque views of the pools and gardens, the space has an open, light-hearted, yet elevated atmosphere.
This impressive space is filled with Gallic-style jade and mauve furniture, adding a contemporary flair. A circle sectional with a bullion fringe sits at its center under a colossal, opulent crystal chandelier. Grounding the space
is a cut-pile silk and wool rug with scaled acanthus leaves rendered in an Art Moderne manner. The result is a palatial gathering area for the family to connect and bask in the views of their estate.
The other two residential properties take a more modern approach, with bright colors, modern furniture and contemporary art and sculptures.
“The two biggest challenges we faced [ with this estate] were creating so many unique rooms while keeping a cohesive design and working within spaces of such a large scale and proportion,” Tobin says. “Too much furniture in a space would make it look like a showroom, too little and it could feel empty. Balance and intention were critical along with everything being the best quality and executed correctly—from architectural details to personalized interiors.”
The compound took only five-years to complete. A project executed at this caliber required collaboration, communication, imagination, and the ability to turn the largest-scale dream project into a magical family estate.
“The phrase, ‘it takes a village,’ resonated because it truly takes a team of talented and highly dedicated people to design, build and implement an estate of this magnitude. We were fortunate enough to work with vendors and suppliers from around the world who contributed to the success of this project,” LDG principal Brian Pinkett points out.
“The client and their family have other homes around the world, but this one was created to bring the family together,” Landry adds. “To have a client that empowers us to do something to this scale with this much detail and is committed to quality and communicating well during the design process means a lot.”
When In WAI LEA
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Four magical days in Wailea.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria
Ekomo means to welcome. This concept of feeling welcome is the essence of Wailea. The unique and luxurious master-planned luxury residential resort community was built around the notion that there is a place for everyone. From five-star resort properties to luxury condominiums, residential neighborhoods, golf courses and high-end shopping, you feel at home as soon as you pass the threshold into Wailea.
The moment I entered Wailea, it was as if I had been transported to a tropical oasis. Native Hawaiian flora and fauna surrounded me as I drove deeper into the community to get to my hotel. Monkeypod trees lined the pathway, shading us from the sun and creating a jungle-like scene with glimpses of the lapis blue coastline peeking through the plants.
The community of Wailea is unique in that it consists of people coming together to create a harmonious community that shares a love and appreciation for the beauty of Wailea and its five crescent beaches.
Upon arrival at my first destination, The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, I was greeted by Wendle Lesher, the general manager and Lacey Santos, the marketing coordinator, with a kukui nut lei, a Hawaiian tradition to symbolize friendship and greeting. Kukui nut is Hawaii’s state tree, symbolizing enlightenment, protection and peace.
The lobby was an open-concept breezeway with lush green flora and fauna throughout, integrating the tropical paradise with the building’s interior.
As I was escorted to my room by Lesher and Santos, I was told about the hotel’s heritage. The property was originally owned by Takeshi Sekiguchi, a wealthy Japanese developer. The Grand Wailea was Sekiguchi’s passion project, and according to Lesher, he was a man who always got what he wanted.
Sekiguchi incorporated gems throughout the property, such as the chapel in the gardens. The chapel was built in the 1990s and now serves as a stunning venue for events and weddings. The stainedglass windows were commissioned by the artist Yvonne Cheng, who
Sekiguchi sent to Italy for two years to learn the craft. Cheng is also responsible for creating the stunning mosaic Hibiscus Pool, which comprises more than one million tiles.
Another notable sight to see on the property is a replica of a Sekiguchi's favorite Japanese Tea House. All the materials were imported to keep the buildings authenticity.
What is even more shocking however, is the landscape surrounding the building. Rocks from Mt. Fuji were imported and reassembled to the exact formation they were before they were taken. A detail that cost Sekiguchi a pretty penny.
Once I was settled, I stopped at the sushi restaurant and bar, Botero Lounge, named after the famous artist Fernando Botero, who Sekiguchi was fond of, so much so that there are nine sculptures of Botero’s showcased throughout the property, with values ranging from $20 to $50 million.
Situated in the heart of the property, Botero Lounge is the hub for people to sit back and relax while indulging in delicious sushi and live music. Botero’s aesthetic is boho chic. Large plush turquoise chairs line the bar and a grand lantern chandelier hangs above the ceiling.
I was greeted by our bartender, Keoni. I ordered the Meandering Roba, a fresh cocktail made with Ocean Organic Vodka—distilled locally in Hawaii—fresh lime juice, Lilikoʻi purée and Ever-Tree ginger beer. It was just the refreshment I needed after my long flight.
I spent the evening taking in my surroundings; I ordered two sushi rolls. The Ocean Roll, which is tuna, king salmon, hamachi, avocado, crab meat, Tamai spicy sauce and soy paper, was flavorful, fresh, and a new favorite of mine. I loved watching the chef make my food in front of me.
After dinner, I took a walk down to the ocean. The feeling of the warm sand under my feet, followed by the soft, rhythmic swell of the water crashing onto the shore, was euphoric.
I woke up the following day and had a complimentary breakfast buffet at the Napua Lounge, which is like a hotel within the hotel. The Napua Club Lounge offers free cocktail services and light bites from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Staying in a Napua room comes with a premium, but the upgrade is worth it, trust me. I sat on the back patio, enjoying my chocolate croissant and coffee and listened to the birds singing in the palms.
I strolled with Lesher and Santos around the property before my much-needed spa appointment. The path was lined with fresh trees growing various fruits and foods, from cacao trees to mango trees and everything in between. It was said that the fruit tends to be picked by guests staying on the property when ripe, something they encourage. I was lucky to try a ripe cherry directly off the tree; it was the juiciest and sweetest cherry I have ever had.
I was escorted upstairs to take a peek at the crème de la crème of their accommodation options, their Napua Grand Suite. This 5,500-square-foot two-bedroom, three-bathroom room boasts incredible 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. It features upgraded interiors such as marble bathrooms and lavish furnishings and is decorated with museum-quality artwork. This impressive room was the creative product of Nina Chiappa Interiors and perfectly combines residential luxury with resort living. The Napua Grand Suite also includes full access to the Napua Lounge.
I checked into the Grand Wailea’s ICONIC Kilolani Spa, which recently opened its doors early 2024. The 50,000-square-foot luxury wellness spa underwent a $44 million renovation to become one of the best destination spas in the world, a goal I think they achieved.
The Kilolani Spa has more than 40 treatment rooms and a menu of more than 37 wellness and beauty treatments, all based on the Hawaiian moon calendar, a tradition ancient Hawaiians used to navigate through the night.
Guests are encouraged to arrive an hour before their appointment to unwind and indulge in the amenities of the hydrotherapy
gardens, an al fresco bathhouse experience with cooling and hydrotherapy features.
The features include a saltwater vitality pool, a wet lounge, a cold plunge tub, a massive eucalyptus-infused steam room with a beautiful sculpture grounded in the center, a sauna, waterfall showers and scrub stations.
Important note: Guests who book the wellness rooms have full access to the hydrotherapy garden throughout their stay.
I was taken to a dark and tranquil room with a massive black rock tub filled with sea salt to set my intentions for the day. I then pinched salt water from the bowl and tossed droplets over each shoulder, a tradition the cultural director set as the proper way to enter the spa.
Before my treatment, I enjoyed all the spa’s hydrotherapy amenities. My massage therapist escorted me to my room, where she gave me the Lomi Pōhaku Massage, which uses heated lava and salt stones with traditional Lomilomi massage techniques. I left my treatment with no tension in my body.
That night, I had a reservation at the famous Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa restaurant, an elevated bungalow-style steak and seafood restaurant. I sat at their newly renovated aquarium bar top, which is exactly what it sounds like. You could look down and see fish swimming underneath your dinner and cocktails.
TOP: Photography by Anna Kim. BOTTOM: Photos Courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani
The Chef de Cuisine, Ryan Urig, came to greet me. When asked what I wanted that night, I put the power in his hands, a decision I don’t regret.
Shortly after, a beautiful seafood tower and tuna carpaccio were presented, followed by fresh swordfish and the day’s catch on a bed of sea rice. I ended my incredible dinner with a trio of desserts. It’s safe to say I left that dinner with a full stomach and a happy heart.
I had an early start to my morning; I went snorkeling with Kai Kanani, a family-owned sailing excursion company that offers snorkeling, sunset sails, whale watching and private charters.
The friendly staff explained the expectations to the group before we did a beach load from the shore of Makena Beach. The ride to Molokini, an old volcanic crater now a prime snorkeling spot, was a peaceful and wonderful experience. The crew gave us orange juice and cinnamon rolls before our first dive, setting a relaxed and comfortable tone for the day.
Once in the water, I was surrounded by a rainbow of fish and live coral. The fish were as curious about us as we were with them, some swimming close enough to touch. We spent 45 minutes exploring the crater before we loaded back onto the boat for our second stop; the crew offered us coffee and hot chocolate.
The second stop was a cove with exposed lava rock. When I swam out to our guide and looked into the water, I was amazed by what I saw. Two massive sea turtles were swimming below me. One came up to the surface and flashed a smile before swimming to the coral below. I had never felt so connected to the ocean until that moment, observing some of the planet’s most beautiful creatures unbothered and right in front of me.
When we were all back on the boat, the crew offered us a full breakfast with an open bar, a luxurious catering service I had not expected to receive on this excursion. I ordered a mimosa and relaxed as the boat made its way back to shore.
The five-star crew and service that came with the snorkeling experience is unparalleled. If you are looking for something fun to do while in Maui while still receiving luxury treatment, book with Kai Kanani.
I checked out of the Grand Wailea and into the Fairmont Kea Lani, another Wailea resort that underwent a complete renovation, upgrading their lobby, restaurants, suites and villas.
The all-white resort looked angelic in the distance, a key factor in the design plan. The phrase Kea Lani translates to heavenly white, and it is a testament to traditional Hawaiian architectural influences.
The concept of the Kea Lani began in 1986 with architect Jose Luis de la Colina Ezquerra. Ezquerra and his team were eager to imbue Hawaiian eccentricity into their work, so he worked to emulate and combine the best properties of two historic Hawaiian properties, The Royal Hawaiian Hotel and Iolani Palace.
By drawing inspiration from the shape of The Royal Hawaiian Palace and the white coloring of Iolani Palace, Kea Lani is now its own architectural masterpiece.
The large open lobby featured stunning fluid circular arches and mesh waterfalls in the center under a massive monkey pod wood atrium. The designer utilized a neutral palette, so the natural greenery of the plants and scenery acted as the accent color. The lobby emanates tranquil energy and a clean, refreshing aesthetic, seamlessly incorporating the materials of the landscape into the beautiful design of the hotel.
Scattered throughout the property is the work of the famous wood carver Dale Zarrella. Intricate sculptures depicting sea turtles and mermaids emphasize the importance of the ocean and Hawaiian mythology and folklore.
Eager to explore the pulchritudinous property, I walked through the open archway, which led me to the outdoor pools and gardens. Eventually, I reached the Fairmont Kea Lani’s poolside restaurant, Ama.
The Ama Bar and Grill offers stunning ocean views from every table. I enjoyed a delicious orange Ama’s Passion cocktail while taking in the view of the beach below. For my lunch, I snacked on the Ahi wonton chips and the poke bowl, which consisted of shoyu ahi, Llmu, Maui onions, red chili flakes, bubu arare, wasabi aioli and avocado on a bed of white rice.
It was the perfect meal to hold me over until my dinner at Pilina.
My suite had a beautiful coastal chic aesthetic. A living area with a sandy couch, ocean blue accent rug and dining table greeted me at the door. A wood dividing wall led me to my bedroom, which had décor that emulated the materials and properties of the Hawaiian mountains and beaches.
The tile bathroom featured his-and-her sinks and was stocked with Le Labo products. Motion sensor linear lighting was also incorporated, which I greatly appreciated as a nod to sustainability.
Larger beachside two-and-three-bedroom villas are also available for booking; elevated coastal interiors, a full kitchen, a loft and a private plunge pool accompany each villa. This accommodation is perfect for families!
With some downtime, I took a Hawaiian language class at Hale Kukuna, their new cultural center. I learned the Hawaiian alphabet, common phrases and the enriching history of the Hawaiian language, which was illegal to speak until the 1990s.
Hale Kukuna boasts a collection of Hawaiian artifacts, weapons, clothing, leas, instruments and tools in a beautiful display designed to enhance people’s understanding of and appreciation of the land’s native people.
Multiple culturally enriching classes and activities happen throughout the day.
At golden hour, I checked in for my dinner reservation at Pilina, the Fairmont Kea Lani’s magnificent lobby cocktail bar and restaurant.
A beautifully carved Monkeypod wood archway leads to a sizable spiraling wood centerpiece welcoming you into the restaurant. At the bar, unobstructed views of the sunset reflected by the ocean await you.
Warm woods and earthy accent colors fill the space, creating an open lounge and relaxing atmosphere. The melody of an acoustic guitar adds grace and movement to the atmosphere. The restaurant was absolutely breathtaking.
I ordered an array of their signature cocktails, my favorite being the Tropics in Bloom, a fiery red drink with Grey Goose, Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, St. Germain elderflower, lemon, Maui hibiscus, lemongrass, rosehips, Arabian jasmine and champagne served in a classic martini glass.
My server, Zach, recommended a few signature sushi rolls and hot rocks, so I ordered those. Cooking my fish on the hot stones added another entertainment element to my experience.
While I did not order this myself, I couldn’t help but gaze at the couple’s sushi boat beside me. A colorful platter of fresh fish and greens adorned a small wood sailboat. The presentation was everything.
Photos Courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani
The following day, I had my spa appointment. My massage therapist, April, took me on the soothing Hawaiian Journey, a full-body, two-hour spa service of sheer relaxation. I started off with a full-body Molokai lemongrass salt scrub to exfoliate the dead skin and impurities off my body. The scrub was then followed by a Kava aloe body mask to hydrate the skin from the inside out.
Hawaiian ti leaves were then wrapped around my body, a familiar ritual in Hawaiian culture. While my body was absorbing the products, I had an Awapuhi honey and lemon hair mask massaged into my scalp. It smelled incredible.
I hopped in the shower to rinse off the clay mask and salt scrub; my skin felt smooth and revived. I nestled back onto the massage bed for a one-hour massage with Maui vanilla cocoa and coconut butter. As someone with dry skin, my body was in heaven.
After an energizing massage, I did what most would do: I b-lined it to the bar, where I enjoyed a playful cocktail in a pineapple.
Dinner at Kō, the Fairmont Kea Lani’s signature restaurant, was fabulous. I put the chef in charge of my meal once more. He started me off with the Lau Lau dish: fresh seafood wrapped in ti leaves and soaked in a shoyu-coconut milk sauce. The sweet and savory combination was fantastic. He then served the fresh catch on a bed of taro risotto and garnished it with various vegetables. The symphony of flavors danced on my palate.
On my last day, I woke early to experience the Fairmont Kea Lani’s canoe excursion. With our resort navigator, we paddled into Maui’s turquoise waters in a Hawaiian outrigger canoe. We pushed the 450-pound canoe into the water and paddled out. The waves were big that morning, but it only added to the fun!
This culturally enriching experience is complimentary for registered hotel guests; you only have to book a spot before your stay.
Before my flight home, I treated myself to a quick round of golf at the Wailea Golf Club, a luxurious golf course and training academy.
Whether you want to play a few rounds of golf on one of their three resort courses with the crystal blue Pacific as your backdrop or refine your game through their Golf Academy taught by PGA Pro Golfer Claude Brousseau, The Wailea Golf Club has everything to accommodate your golfing desires.
They also have spaces available to rent for weddings or private events, all with the breathtaking panoramic ocean view.
I played nine holes, laughing and enjoying the beautiful sunshine and breathtaking views. When I returned back to the club house, I was given a fresh wet towel to cool down, I did some shopping in their golf pro shop and went back to my hotel to prepare for my departure from Hawaii.
Wailea is genuinely a place that has something ICONIC for everybody. Mahalo Wailea.
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A Pop of Pattern
Check out this ICONIC wallpaper work by Diana Garreau with Garreau Designs.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Nothing says bold like a daring wallpaper. When you walk into a room and are engulfed by beautiful patterns—sometimes a mural of nature or wildlife, sometimes adorned in gold or silver foliage and sometimes a free-flowing pattern of shapes and linework—you immediately step into a visual wonderland. And nobody does wallpaper quite like Diana Garreau with Garreau Designs.
Drawing from an incredible fusion of cultures, travel and creative pursuits, Garreau uses her experiences to fuel her spectacular designs. Her career started with designing prints for surfwear, skatewear and fashion.
“The possibilities were endless,” Garreau says. “I reveled in the challenge of designing prints that would set trends. I loved pulling from cultures, overlapping them and
reinventing past decades of fashion. My favorite time in this process was finding new color and element combinations.”
Garreau’s career took a significant turn when she shifted her focus from fashion to interior decor. The enduring allure of the interior design world captivated her, leading her to create stunning designs.
“Transforming spaces and making them more inviting and aesthetically pleasing became my new passion,” she says.
“Whether it was a commercial establishment or a residential home, the process of sculpting the perfect ambiance and bringing many objects, patterns and textures together was very satisfying. And I had decades of art in the archives that I could use or show as ideas to springboard from.”
With a large selection of unique prints, Garreau Designs wallpaper will undoubtedly give your home a fresh, one-of-akind look.
Photos courtesy of Garreau Designs
BEAU SIMMONS
