ICONIC LIFE September 2023

Live Beautifully

Introducing the critically-acclaimed Designer Collection in Brass by award-winning luxury designer Richard T. Anuszkiewicz.

“Our clients wish to experience the place they live in a connected, emotional way that traditional design styles cannot accommodate. We design homes that harmonize with nature, celebrate their context and reflect the unique values of our clients. With every opportunity we strive to develop homes that transcend architectural style and become timeless – an authentic reflection of their place and time”

– Brent Kendle, AIA, LEED AP

KAITLYN WOLFE FOUNDER, PRINCIPAL DESIGNER

ICONIC BY KAITLYN WOLFE

Luxury Interior Design Firm

Our Desert Chalet Project was a spec build designed for a developer, Arcadia Fortress. We were inspired by the matte black A-Frame roof line, which reminded us of a cabin, hence ‘chalet’. For this reason, we selected light natural wood finishes throughout the home, on the floors, walls and ceilings and many soft, textural and organic finishes. We put a unique spin on it with a nod to some Art Deco and mid-century vibes with geometric shapes and lighting, such as the screenprinted tile sourced from Portugal at the wet bar.

Throughout the home, you will find a ceiling-suspended vapor fireplace in the primary bedroom, ceramic lighting, custom millwork, asymmetry and a play on contrast. A black and white agglomerate marble is the show piece in the great room along the base of the fireplace.

Open Up Your World.

Bringing Doors & Windows to Life

The best door and window automation system in the world opens your windows and doors at your effortless command. SummitAutomation.com

Bring your kitchen inspiration.

When you walk through our doors, bring an idea. A dream. A vision. Our showroom is designed to inspire you with on-site chefs, product experts, and exclusive events - all so you can fully experience everything your kitchen can be.

FALLING IN LOVE

Ilove the fall…the kids are back at school, temps are cooling down, and it feels like we’re all back at it after a lovely summer break. But still, the skies are blue, the sunshine is warm, and the best part of the year is ahead.

This issue celebrates all things fall, from truffle season to the Napa Valley wine crush to the changing of the leaves, which reminds me that nothing ever stays the same. For a person like me, that is not only okay but inspiring.

It’s around this time every year that I kick off a new initiative and embark on growing the brand. This year, it’s to bring the pages of ICONIC LIFE magazine into the world of video content creation and video podcasting, creating a complete 360-degree experience for our audience. We love nothing better than sitting down with a decadent print edition in our hands over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. And I make sure our luxury magazine looks and feels like a luxury magazine with every issue.

When you’re on the run, video is a great way to stay in touch and discover something new, and we are working with an ICONIC team of content creators, producers, directors and editors to bring our brand to life in the best possible way. I’ve turned my podcast into a visual conversation because it’s fun for everyone, including me, to see the faces of my guests. You can see the latest videos on iconiclife.com.

Renee M. Dee Publisher

This month also marks the inaugural ICONIC Design Awards celebration at Scottsdale Center for the Arts on Sept. 30, where top architects, interior designers, product creators and landscape developers will be awarded for excellence in design. This grand gala will be an elegant, sophisticated evening to celebrate all our friends in the design industry in a big, beautiful way. I can share first-hand that I am eagerly anticipating what will be the biggest event my team and I have ever produced. Click the code at the bottom for tickets.

Speaking of design, we have a passion for honoring those who are the tops of the top in our design community, and this issue will introduce you to five new inductees to our Top Designer honorees. Check out who was named this year, starting on page 84.

I’m so proud of my amazing team who works with me to produce ICONIC LIFE magazine. There’s always time to say thank you once again. And to our loyal readers, we do it for you and so appreciate your support!

With

Gratitude,

Renee M. Dee Publisher

Photography by BitFire Studio

RENEE M. DEE | Publisher

KAITLYN BEICKEL | Editor-in-Chief

MEG PERICH | Client Relations Director AZ

DOROTHY COSTELLO | Business Development Director OC

ERIN SUWWAN | Publication Designer

NAKAYLA SHAKESPEARE | Editorial Specialist

ALLIE WOODARD | Marketing Coordinator

NANCY ERDMANN | Features Editor

MARK SACRO | Fashion Photographer

JUN MAPUE | Lighting Design

CONTRIBUTORS

Bailey Badillo, Elyse Glickman, Shoshana Leon, Sam Micatrotto, Fran Miller, Dena Roché, David Rubin and Nora Burba Trulsson

Advertising and Editorial Queries, contact us at concierge@iconiclife.com 8145 E. Evans Road, Suite 7 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480.330.3737

ICONICLIFE.COM

THE LIST

By Allie Woodard

LET IT GLOW

Elevate your space this fall with candles that exude a luxurious ambiance.

As the seasons change, it’s time to switch out your pool towel for a cozy blanket and set the tone for a warm and welcoming mood. Whether entertaining guests or simply curling up with a book, these candles provide the perfect autumn scents, ranging from bold spices paired with woody scents to sweet fig and forest aromas.

LE LABO

Santal 26 Large Concrete Candle, $510 via Le Labo.

JO MALONE

Fresh Fig & Cassis Townhouse Candle, $140 via Jo Malone.

CHRISTIAN DIOR 30 Montaigne Giant Candle, $630 via Dior.

DIPTYQUE

Ambre Medium Candle, $110 via Diptyque.

FLAMINGO ESTATE

Douglas Fir & Ancient Vetiver Candle, $58 via Flamingo Estate.

Aesthetes & Designers of REMARKABLE LANDSCAPES & OUTDOOR

Scottsdale / Paradise Valley / Carefree

MUST HAVES

By Carlye Klick

MACH & MACH

Double Bow Platform Pump, $1,078 via Nordstrom.

TOM FORD

Disco Satin Clutch, $2,650 via Nordstrom.

HAUTE PINK

It’s time to “think pink” with all things glam!

An ever-evolving fashion ICON, Barbie is an innovator in both fashion and pop culture, and today is leading the popular all-pink fashion Barbiecore trend.

As the first adult woman doll, Barbie became a role model for young girls, exemplifying playfulness, glamor and style. With a snap of her fingers, Barbie transforms into a lawyer, astronaut or artist, setting the example that kids can grow up to have any career they can dream of.

Whether she’s walking the runway or attending a glamorous soirée, Barbie’s impeccable pink fashion sense continues to inspire fashion brands worldwide, making Barbiecore the ultimate symbol of luxury and style.

Watch our Barbiecore styling video

SAINT LAURENT

Lou Lou Oversized Heart Sunglasses,

ZAC POSEN

Sleeveless Bow-Front A-Line Mini Dress, $495 via Neiman Marcus.

SWAROVSKI

Lucent Cocktail Ring, $300 via Nordstrom.

VALENTINO

Giacca Avvitata Blazer Jacket, $4,200 via Neiman Marcus.

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Amali Alta Ankle-Strap Platform Sandal, $1,195 via Nordstrom.

AREA

Crystal Heart Ruffle Wool

Stretch Crepe Miniskirt, $995 via Nordstrom.

The Epitome of Elegance.

Shopping

A Cool Breeze

At-Ease Fine Men’s Clothes

Bryn Walker

Carine’s Boutique

Diva Sizes 14-24

Femme

Kreiss

Oliver Smith Jeweler

Paris Paris

Posh

Ritzy Rags and Shoes

The Collector ’s House

Dining

Bandolero

Famous 48

Hash Kitchen

Kaleidoscope Juice

Koibito Poke

Luna Gelateria & Caffetteria

Lure Fish House + Oyster Bar

Panera Bread

Pei Wei

Pomo Pizzeria

Soi 4 Bangkok Eatery

SunSet Wine Bistro

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Village Tavern

Beauty & Services

100% Chiropractic

CLOVR Life Spa

Club Pilates

Custom Ink

Gainey Nails & Spa

IYA MedAesthetics

ROLFS

StretchLab

YogaSix

Restore Hyper Wellness

Grocery

Sprouts

BAR Raising the

Renowned mixologist Christiaan

Röllich serves up creative cocktails focusing on fresh ingredients at Zinc Bistro, The Mission and Fat Ox

By Shoshana Leon

From presidents to movie stars, mixologist Christiaan Röllich has served his inspired cocktail creations to some of the most famous people in the world. Today, he’s overseeing the cocktail program at three of Scottsdale’s favorite hot spots.

Röllich grew up in the Netherlands and began his bartending career at nightclubs

Photography Courtesy of Fat Ox

in Amsterdam. He moved to Los Angeles in 1997, where he did some modeling, served as a body-double for Brad Pitt and took a bartending job at the hip Les Deux Cafes, making Lemon Drops and Cosmopolitans for Hollywood’s elite.

In 2006, Röllich began working at Lucques, one of the top restaurants in Los Angeles. He was inspired by the people he worked with, including acclaimed restaurateurs Caroline Styne and Suzanne Goin, a James Beard Award-winning chef. “Everyone at Lucques had a drive to be the best,” Röllich says. “It was an amazing environment that inspired me to really start honing my craft.”

Röllich worked 80-hour weeks and learned to make bitters, syrups and liqueurs from scratch. He was responsible for the bar programs at Lucques and its sister restaurants, A.O.C. and Tavern.

“I found it exciting to create farm-to-table cocktails with fresh ingredients and everything made in-house,” Röllich says. “It put me on the map as a mixologist, and I was doing cocktail parties for celebrities, fashion houses and presidents.”

MAKING ARIZONA CONNECTIONS

In 2019, Röllich’s career was thriving; he had released his book, Bar Chef: Handcrafted Cocktails (W.W. Norton & Co.) and was building a great life in Los Angeles with his family. Then the pandemic hit. Like many workers in the hospitality industry, Röllich’s professional life came to an abrupt halt as restaurants closed down.

In 2020, Röllich and his family moved from California to Arizona, where his wife is from. With no professional connections in Arizona, he contacted Jason Asher, one of Arizona’s most prolific mixologists. Asher, who owns several award-winning cocktail bars in the Phoenix area, told Röllich about an opportunity at Sanctuary, a high-end Scottsdale resort. Röllich ended up working there for two years.

In early 2023, he accepted a job as bar director creating cocktail programs for some of Scottsdale’s most popular restaurants, including Zinc Bistro, a French restaurant that has been a Scottsdale favorite for more than 20 years; the Mission, which serves upscale Mexican food with two locations;

and Fat Ox, offering a modern take on Italian food.

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Röllich started by creating a cocktail menu for Fat Ox inspired by the ingredients used in the restaurant’s upscale Italian dishes.

“I look at the restaurant’s ingredients and incorporate them into cocktails,” Röllich says. “It’s a creative and collaborative process with a lot of experimentation. I like the idea of creating something that wasn’t there before, and I love working with chefs who are passionate about food.”

When designing the cocktail menu for Fat Ox, Rollich took ingredients from the kitchen to create cocktails like Green Gold, which includes tequila, pistachios, cucumber and chimichurri. The menu features his spin on a gin and tonic with lemongrass and grapefruit; and Big River, a drink made with mezcal, pineapple, saffron, turmeric and peppers.

“I used bell peppers, so the heat doesn’t dominate, and the peppery flavor is complemented by the smokiness of the mezcal and the sweetness of the pineapple,” Röllich says.

Now that the Fat Ox cocktail menu is complete and the dishes are being enjoyed by customers offering rave reviews, Röllich is researching the cocktail menu at the Mission to complement the restaurant’s Mexican cuisine. “Right away, I thought about chips and salsa and how to incorporate those flavors into a cocktail using tomato water and other salsa ingredients like a cilantro-jalapeño syrup,” he says.

Beyond the cocktails he creates, Röllich is focused on customer experience. “It’s all about hospitality in the end,” he notes. “Restaurants should offer a full experience to their guests, from appetizers to the main course and dessert complemented by excellent wine, creative cocktails and stellar service.”

In more than two decades in the bartending industry, Röllich has seen an evolution in mixology. “Through social media and the internet, the public is exposed to a lot more knowledge, and diners are much more informed,” he says. “As the cocktail scene continues to grow and mixologists become more innovative, it’s an exciting time to be in this business.”

Photos by Chad Whittington Photography

The Thrill of the Chaise

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Photography by Sterling Godwin

Persepshen is Reality

Phoenix restaurant thrives on sustainability and seasonality.

By Shoshana Leon

When husband and wife team Jason and Katherine Dwight opened Persepshen in central Phoenix in 2019, they had a clear vision for the restaurant.

“We wanted to help change people’s perception of how to eat sustainably and organically utilizing local ingredients and making everything from scratch,” Jason says.

A fifth-generation Arizona native, Jason started cooking at a very young age. “I lived most of my life in the desert. With farms across the state, Arizona has one of the longest growing seasons in the country and so much to offer,” he points out.

Jason met his wife while studying the culinary arts. Katherine is a baker and pastry chef, and the couple shares a strong passion for sustainability, local ingredients and the power of what Jason calls “real food.”

“We recognize the health benefits of eating real food and are aware of how food affects you,” says the father of three young children. “When we became parents, our passion grew stronger as we want our kids to have the best possible food and the best possible start in life.”

WHAT’S ON THE MENU

The menu at Persepshen changes weekly based on the availability of animals and produce and features a wide range of dishes and cuisines.

“We highlight flavors from all over the world, from Korean to Mexican,” Jason says. “If we don’t make it with local organic ingredients, then we don’t serve it down to ketchup and mustard.”

While the menu changes, there are some staples, such as the charcuterie board, which features five cured meats, three pickled vegetables, jam, mostarda and lavosh. And like the rest of the menu, the items on the board are determined by what meats and produce are available.

Popular entrees include Duck å L’Orange, crispy roasted half duck with caramelized orange reduction and fingerling potatoes; the O.G. Burger made with 90-day dry-aged, Arizona grass-fed, pasture-raised beef and Steam Buns.

Persepshen’s desserts also change regularly based on the availability of seasonal ingredients. Still, there are a few staples, including the Overloaded Chocolate Chip Cookie, described as “more chocolate than dough.” Another favorite is Chocolate Cream Pie, made with fair trade dark chocolate and salted caramel, providing a perfect contrast of flavors.

Photography by Sterling Godwin

WELCOME TO OUR HOME

“When people come to the restaurant, we treat them as if they are coming to our house for a dinner party,” Jason remarks. “When guests come to the restaurant, we welcome them into our home for a dining experience.”

Some guests dine at Persepshen specifically for the focus on sustainability and local ingredients, while others appreciate good food. “People are super thankful and appreciative of what we do, and some are excited to go to a restaurant where they know everything they are going to consume is the cleanest possible food,” Jason says. “Other people just enjoy the food, and we have the opportunity to enlighten them and change their perception of what real food is, which is rewarding for us.”

In addition to making everything from scratch with local ingredients, the Dwights incorporate sustainability in all parts of their business, from cleaning products to takeout boxes to composting. “Minimizing our footprint as much as possible is vital to the longevity of people and the planet. All these details can make a big difference.”

Jason and Katherine are excited to continue to share their passion through food. “We are only scratching the surface,” Jason remarks. “We’d like to push further and continue raising the bar on how people should eat.”

The Dwights are true partners in life and business. “We have the same core values at home and in our business,” Jason says. “We are driven by excellent quality and providing local, organic, real food. With three kids, we can be tired and stretched thin sometimes, but it’s not work when you love what you do.”

Safe HOME HOME

How smart design allows for luxury aging in place.

By Dena Roché

Aging is a part of life. And while we can’t stop the clock, almost 80 percent of Americans want to stay in their own home as they grow older. Scottsdale-based Bonnie Lewis is one of just a handful of Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) in the country who also are professional interior designers.

At her firm, Bonnie J. Lewis Design, she creates luxury interiors that incorporate special design elements that allow the home to accommodate the needs of today and unforeseen circumstances in the future.

“Most homes are not designed for people older than 75,” Lewis says. “Houses, even luxury houses, aren’t designed for how the body ages.”

Architecture and home design are not usually done with an eye toward a homeowner that might have a mobility device, reduced hearing or vision, balance issues, loss of strength or reduced cognitive capabilities.

“It usually requires redesigning and remodeling spaces to make them functional and fully accessible,” the designer says. This usually means widening doorways, changing flooring, and, often, reworking the kitchen and bathrooms.

ACCESSIBLE CAN BE AESTHETIC

With the youngest baby boomers nearing 60, aging-in-place design has never been more relevant, but according to Lewis, people are reluctant to embrace it.

“Women are especially resistant, because they don’t want an ugly, institutional look, which I totally understand,” she says. “What they don’t realize is that is where my uniqueness comes in. I’m a degreed designer; I make it beautiful and functional.”

A case in point is a recent project Lewis completed for a physician couple who bought their forever home in North Scottsdale. While the homeowners are still young at 55 and 65, they knew that when they remodeled their bathroom, they wanted to plan for whatever the future might hold.

“Incorporating well-aging design into the couple’s remodel is a preventative measure that will help keep them safe, independent and eliminate the need to remodel again

Photography by DeCastro Photography

when their needs change as they age,” Lewis says. “It’s a smart investment since it is better for the homeowners and the environment as it preemptively puts less in the landfill by doing one remodel versus two.”

Some of the standout design aesthetic elements in the home include a custom 10-foot-high modern barn-style entry door, textured white wood-pattern tile plank flooring, custom translucent blue window treatments, organic patterned wallpaper and a freestanding tub.

Within the beautiful space, Lewis deftly wove in a well-aging design that includes a wheelchair-accessible vanity, slip-resistant flooring, and abundant natural, ambient and task lighting to assist aging eyes and prevent falls. In the shower, the flooring is slip-resistant, the plumbing is ADA-compliant, and a bamboo shower seat and attractive support bars are integrated.

“Bonnie created and executed a breathtaking renovation, which exceeds any spa bathroom I have ever seen anywhere in the

world,” the homeowner says. “She flawlessly incorporated accessibility features we did not think we would need for many years. I came to appreciate the large shower, which could accommodate both my husband and myself as I needed help with showering after I fell during a hike, breaking my wrist within months of the remodel.”

BEING PREPARED

“When something happens, it’s now a crisis,” Lewis says. “All of a sudden, you need a home that can accommodate special needs and you can’t get the place remodeled in a week. It’s better to plan ahead—hope for the best but plan for the worst. Many people end up in assisted living because their home isn’t ready. Hospitals won’t release a patient unless there is at least one ADA-compliant bathroom.”

By incorporating a well-aging design, smarthome technology and the professional eye of an expert like Lewis, the aging population can ensure they’ve created a luxury, forever home that will suit all their needs.

MOST HOMES ARE NOT DESIGNED FOR PEOPLE OLDER THAN 75.

A bayfront hidden gem

Need a relaxing and enjoyable change of scenery?

Alea Tulum by Nahuma is a top notch boutique hotel o the beaten path, but close enough to the party spots and shopping.

This modern 21-room property is located 4 miles from the Tulum archaeological site, and is nestled between the Tankah bay, the lush jungle, and an enchanting mangrove. A beautiful hidden gem in Tulum!

www.aleatulum.com

reservaciones@aleatulum.com

Desert

Haven

This modern estate emerges as a desert mirage, a Tate Studio testament to design that celebrates the spirit of the sun-kissed land.

By Sam Micatrotto

Photography by CJ

Gershon Photography

ARCHITECT Tate Studio Architects, Mark A. Tate, AIA, principal

BUILDER The Phil Nichols Company Inc

INTERIOR DESIGN Tate Studio

FURNISHINGS Est Est

LANDSCAPE Desert Foothills Landscape

PHOTOGRAPHER CJ Gershon Photography

CABINETRY Affinity

In the world of architecture and design, every project begins as a blank canvas, awaiting the transformative power of artistic inspiration. Under visionary leaders, Tate Studio embraces this creative challenge, driven by a passion for redefining the essence of living spaces. With an approach that marries aesthetics with practicality, the studio seeks to create good designs and spaces that breathe life into its clients’ dreams.

The Stummer house, brought to life in the enchanting landscape of Scottsdale, Ariz., exemplifies the studio’s extraordinary craftsmanship, blending elegance with the distinct personality of its homeowners. Challenges are often the steppingstones that lead to exceptional achievements. This home is no exception, as it emerged in a community that had never seen modern architecture.

“The design guidelines were written for more traditional and theme-oriented styles of architecture,” Julie Jones, studio manager at Tate Studio, recalls. “We really worked to design a home the clients would love inside and out, but also worked with the design review board to develop something they felt fit in a development that did not have a home like this.”

Collaborating with the design board, they artfully crafted a dwelling that defied the clients’ expectations—a true testament to the studio’s innovative spirit.

Much of the joy of a project lies in the process, from inception to realization. Understanding a client’s unique aspirations and lifestyle is the cornerstone of the studio’s approach. Here, the design team carved out spaces that embraced the natural surroundings, ushering the outdoors inside.

The entrance to the home is an enchanting journey, where a long driveway winds through a captivating landscape toward the front door. As you step inside, the great room opens to stunning desert vistas and distant Pinnacle Peak through large glass sliding panels.

The residence becomes an enchanting canvas where the personalities of the Stummers find their place in every corner. “There are a couple of things that stand out for us in the design,” Jones says. “One of them is a glass panel at the end of one of the galleries that looks into the garage to showcase the owners’ cars. The home overall has a calm, warm material palette with a few bold statement pieces like the Turco art panels in the great room and powder room.”

Beyond aesthetics and design, the home showcases a profound respect for nature. It sits at the far back of the property, nestled amid the dense vegetation of the desert landscape. The team took advantage of native plants and trees, creating a sense of serenity and privacy, cocooning the family from the hustle and bustle of the world.

As the sun sets on the breathtaking Scottsdale home, the team’s passion for design and dedication to crafting living spaces that resonate with the soul continue illuminating its halls. The Stummer residence is not just a house; it is a testament to the enduring relationship between a dream and the brilliance of design, crafted with the love, creativity and ingenuity that define Tate Studio.

Living In COLOR

Phoenix-based Earth & Images defines interior environments with bold colors.

By Fran Miller

The Earth & Images team believes in color.

Color is visible energy, and it invokes moods and emotions. It’s important to consider this in design because it’s not only the outcome of how we want a room to look, it’s how we want it to feel, and what we want the ultimate experience of the inhabitant to be while living in the space. I think people are naturally drawn to colors that are a good frequency for them, so I always start with my client’s preferred palette., says founder of Earth & Images Isabel Candelaria.

In these three Earth & Image interiors, the use of color leaves no doubt as to the vibe and tenor desired by each client.

SUNWASHED SOUTHWEST

Staying true to this home’s Southwest roots, Earth & Image designers updated and refreshed its interiors with color and pattern by incorporating handmade Mexican tiles into the bathrooms and kitchen.

“When working with traditional Mexican tiles, it’s easy to pull out pops of color and apply them to the walls, cabinetry, artwork and furniture,” Candelaria says. “The client wanted to use reclaimed wood flooring in the kitchen, so we juxtaposed the warmth of the floor with a cool green hue in the cabinetry. We were able to repurpose the existing doors from the client’s previous house by adding transom windows to accommodate for the extra height, a punchy way to add color to an otherwise mundane hallway.

“Typically, with terracotta and the warm colors in Mexican tile, it’s nice to play with a cooler palette to balance the space. Blues and greens are optimal, which happen to work well with our client’s color preferences.”

LE CIRQUE Á LA MAISON

As with many remodels, what started with a small change turned into a whole house redesign of this Paradise Valley home whose Seattle-based owners desired to take better advantage of the Arizona sun and pay colorful homage to their career involvement with Cirque du Soleil. At the entry is a custom-colored and designed stained-glass door inspired by Cirque’s hues, costumes and aerial silks.

The guest house and laundry room feature the owner’s favorite color—orange. Other elements of the home—such as bedding and window treatments—were inspired by the owners’ artwork collection. Standout spaces include the powder bath, where three-dimensional apple-green geometric tiles create a statement wall. French glass doors open to the sitting room where windows “wrap” the walls, providing panoramic views of the desert landscape and the seasonal color changes produced by Mother Nature.

“This was fun,” Candelaria remarks. “We feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with such an interesting and uncommon color palette and art collection.”

HAPPY PEOPLE HOUSE

This 2,500-square-foot lakeside Santa Barbara-style villa remodel created a brighter, more open floor plan. Neutral white paint on the walls and ceilings helped lighten dark wood floors and provided the perfect canvas for introducing playful colors to highlight the homeowners’ unique art collection. The entryway features a floor-to-ceiling display of blown-glass sculptures from artist Juan Ripollés.

“In the living room, we drew inspiration from the artist’s work while designing the custom drapery and throw pillows,” Candelaria says. “With black and white as

the base, we were able to use strong colors without them being overpowering. The original dark wood cabinetry in the kitchen was replaced with a lighter and brighter glass-front style, handcrafted mosaic tiles formed a backsplash, and a reclaimed wood beam was adhered to the range hood.

“We used bright colors conscientiously and somewhat sparingly, concentrating the most color behind the range. The fireplaces were outfitted with handcrafted Mexican tiles, tying in the colors of the surrounding spaces. The result is a charming and artful abode made for two.”

Bo

ulders

In North Scottsdale, a Mediterraneaninfluenced home embraces multigenerational living.

By Nora Burba Trulsson

Photography

by

Julianne McKay

ARCHITECT Candelaria Design

BUILDER Dick Lloyd Custom Homes

INTERIORS Hyde Park Interiors

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Greey | Pickett

Overlooking a thicket of desert shrubs and trees on the shores of a golf course lake, a newly built home has Mediterranean roots and modern influences, designed as a welcoming retreat for family and friends. Located in The Boulders community of North Scottsdale, Ariz., the abode’s warm style is thanks to a hands-on collaboration between the owners—a couple who are transplants from Alaska— and a stellar team of local design talents.

“We started out as snowbirds here in Arizona when our daughter was going to college,” the husband remarks. “But when grandchildren arrived, we decided we wanted this to be our primary residence and sold our place in Alaska.”

Looking to build, they found a 2.5-acre lot on the golf course that had belonged to a member of the Osmond entertainment family. Along with the lot, they received architectural sketches for a proposed house by Scottsdale architect Mark Candelaria. That house wasn’t exactly what the couple wanted, however.

“I’m a visual copycat,” the wife says. “ I collect inspirational photos and memories of places we’ve been. We both loved the style of the [now closed] Sassi restaurant in Scottsdale.” The couple took their ideas to Candelaria and found he could achieve their vision of blending Mediterranean and modern influences to create an inviting, livable home.

“This is not a pretentious home,” Candelaria explains. “It has traditional lines but celebrates our bright, informal Arizona lifestyle with spaces where you can live indoors to out.”

Working with builders Joe Lloyd and Dick Lloyd of Dick Lloyd Custom Homes, Candelaria and his architectural team crafted a four-bedroom, 6,300-square-foot home, detailed on the exterior with stone-clad walls, brick windowsills, shutters and clay roof tiles. A spacious entry courtyard, anchored by an antique French fountain, greets visitors and provides plenty of space for lounging, dining and entertaining. Inside, the central living room opens onto the pool patio, lawn and putting green.

Other rooms were designed specifically for the owners’ lifestyle, including a stylish but serious kitchen (they both like to cook), a dining room with a barrel-vaulted brick ceiling that’s framed on one side by a glass-walled wine cellar (the husband is a collector) and offices for both husband and wife. “I call mine the ‘she shed,’” the wife quips. “It’s in the laundry and craft room, but that’s where I like to be.”

When it came to furnishings, the couple started with a clean slate for the new Arizona home, save for a few pieces of artwork. They worked with designers Erik Humphrey and Nikki Peres of Scottsdale’s Hyde Park Interiors to achieve a setting that reflected the architecture and the couple’s lifestyle. “We’ve worked with the owners on several houses,” explains Peres, “so we know they love a cozy home that’s not sterile. They both like warm colors, and she likes to have unique pieces throughout the house.”

Working with a style they call “elevated traditional,” Humphrey and Peres guided the couple toward pieces that have classic forms but with updated finishes and fabrics. A split sectional flanks the fireplace in the living room, allowing the flames to be seen from the adjacent kitchen. An agave-shaped chandelier speaks of the desert and adds sparkle to the living room, while shelves on either side of the fireplace are decidedly asymmetrical, per the wife’s request.

In the dining room, a round Guanacaste hardwood table is an organic counterpoint to the brick ceiling, as is the chandelier, dripping with small geodes. In the media room, what Peres says the owners laughingly dubbed the “land yacht” is a sectional large enough for the couple, their children and their grandchildren to lounge upon when catching up on Netflix movies.

“This interior was designed to withstand family life,” Peres says. “There’s a dog, grandchildren, friends and a lot of entertainment, so for the most part, we used performance fabrics and surfaces with faux leather for easy care.”

The designers added touches throughout the interior that reflect the owners’ tastes and history. In the kitchen, a Tabarka tile backsplash is dotted with blueberries, a nod to Alaskan forests, as is the tile on the guest suite bathroom wall, which looks like birch trees.

The wife says that a vanity of pale, backlit onyx and an ombre-effect tile wall looks like a glass of sparkling champagne for the powder room. The laundry/office/craft room’s smokey teal cabinetry was a request by her for a happy color in that space. In the wine cellar, a stained-glass piece depicts a desert scene.

Outdoors, the landscape makes visual use of the surrounding golf course setting and includes places for entertaining. “We embraced the architecture with the exterior hardscape,” landscape architect Clayton Miller of Scottsdale’s Greey/Pickett says. “We went with a clean desert feel that was appropriate for The Boulders community.”

For the front courtyard, limestone pavers anchor the patio, which curves around planter beds. Garden walls repeat the stone cladding of the home’s walls. In the backyard, the pool has a negative edge but is raised slightly above ground, providing an extra—and subtle—safety barrier for grandchildren. Plant materials were selected and installed by Desert Foothills Landscape from nearby Cave Creek, Ariz., creating a manicured setting with cacti, agaves and other desert natives.

Now complete, the home has provided the perfect backdrop for the owners’ friendly personalities. “We love to entertain,” the husband says. “We had a hundred people here for a party without a problem.” Peres notes, “They throw great parties, including their annual ‘Friendsgiving’ the night before Thanksgiving.” As is his tradition for completed homes, architect Candelaria came over and cooked an inaugural dinner for the couple.

In the end, the couple got the house they wanted. “We worked with some amazing people on this project,” the wife remarks. “That’s why it works for us.” Adds the husband, “This house is genuine and welcoming—you walk in, and it’s like getting a big hug.”

DYNAMIC

DES IGN ERS

By Sam Micatrotto

Portrait Photography by Mark Sacro

Meet the 2023 Top Interior Designers in the Valley… the Ones to Watch

Step into the realm of opulence and refined taste as ICONIC LIFE unveils its prestigious list of top interior designers for 2023.

In the world of luxury living beautifully, these creative visionaries possess the unique ability to transform homes into havens, infusing each with their magic touch.

Prepare to be captivated by the alchemy of design as we present our ICONIC picks for the luminaries shaping Arizona’s aesthetic landscape this year.

DYNAMIC DESIGNERS

When it comes to top designers, two names stand out for their unwavering commitment to turning spaces into living works of art: Mary Marsh and Sandy Black. As principal interior designers at Lillian James Design Group, their combined experience and passion have left an indelible mark on the Arizona design landscape.

With a remarkable 17 years in the design community, Marsh brings experience and creativity to every project she undertakes. It all began after receiving her bachelor’s degree in design studies and interior design

SANDY BLACK & MARY MARSH

LILLIAN JAMES DESIGN GROUP

history from Arizona State University, a foundation that has propelled her throughout her career.

Marsh’s ethos centers on delivering quality service and exceeding client expectations. Her exceptional attention to detail and adeptness in project management and collaboration with trades have consistently resulted in stunning and successful projects. Beyond her impressive skills, her dedication to the craft sets her apart, fostering deep connections within the community and beyond.

Residential, commercial and contract designs comprise March’s diverse portfolio, evidence of her versatility and dedication. Her work has taken her across the country, which has enriched her design perspective and informed her approach to each unique challenge.

Black’s journey through the design world spans 18 years, a testament to

her enduring commitment to her craft. Graduating from the University of Arizona with a degree in marketing and a graduate of The American Institute of Interior Design, Black’s multi-faceted background infuses her work with a distinctive perspective.

Black’s approach is rooted in connections that she forges with each client. Her ability to understand their visions and desires allows her to create aesthetically pleasing and deeply personal spaces. Her distinct design process involves close collaboration, ensuring every minute detail reflects her client’s personality and lifestyle.

Their Scottsdale-based firm is driven by a commitment to executing projects within budget and parameters. From material specifications and millwork details to home furnishings and custom window coverings, every facet is thoughtfully curated to produce spaces that truly resonate.

DYNAMIC DESIGNERS

Step into the world of Kristin Hazen, a designer who has dedicated her artistic prowess to crafting interiors that epitomize elegance and purpose. From a young age, Hazen’s journey has been one of creative exploration, a trajectory that would ultimately propel her into the spotlight of the design world. Her natural inclination for arranging and harmonizing spaces manifested early on,

KRISTIN HAZEN

foreshadowing the meticulous attention to detail that would soon become her signature style. Little did she know that this innate flair for design would pave the way for her to become a household name in the industry.

Hazens’s artistic foundation took root in her years as an accomplished pianist. However, fate had something else in mind and in 2003, she transitioned into the professional world of design that marked the beginning of a new journey. With almost a decade spent at a prominent design firm, Hazen honed her skills, amassing a wealth of experience and knowledge that would shape her career.

Fueled by an unquenchable thirst for innovation and a yearning to chart her unique path, she ventured out on her own in 2013. From then on, Hazen has been known for teaming up with outstanding clients, builders and respected architects, establishing her as a steadfast presence in the field.

Anchored by a lifelong fondness for antique treasures and flea market finds, Hazen infuses her designs with unexpected charm. She seamlessly integrates distinctive pieces that resonate with history and character. An experience studying in London during her college years fueled her love for exploration, leading to annual globetrotting quests for unusual finds. These treasures serve as captivating elements within her clients’ homes, weaving stories and sparking conversations.

Yet, Hazen’s journey isn’t just about awards and accolades. It’s about an unwavering dedication to her craft and tireless pursuit of design excellence. Her work is a testament to her commitment to functionality and artistry, breathing life into spaces that enrich the lives of those who inhabit them. With a clientele spanning Arizona and beyond, Hazen’s creations embody her enduring passion and an unyielding drive to create spaces that transcend the ordinary.

KRISTIN HAZEN DESIGN

DYNAMIC DESIGNERS

Candice Quinn is the visionary behind London Pierce Design, a full-service interior design firm that breathes life into homes through transformative renovations. Focusing on single-family residences and collaborating directly with real estate developers and homeowners, her firm has become a beacon of innovative design in Scottsdale and nearby cities throughout the valley.

CANDICE QUINN

LONDON PIERCE DESIGN

As the principal designer and founder of London Pierce Design, Quinn’s journey is one of creative evolution and dedication. Backed by a team of skilled design assistants and her operations manager, her strategic and artistic approach makes every project a showcase of her unparalleled talent.

The genesis of her firm traces back to its predecessor, London Pierce Real Estate—a boutique brokerage company that brought a tailored approach to the real estate market. Guided by Quinn’s design expertise, the transition from real estate to interior design was a natural evolution. Her keen eye for enhancing a home’s beauty and livability while elevating its resale value has positioned London Pierce Design as a force in the industry.

Quinn’s enthusiasm lies in projects that reimagine spaces into something unexpected. She thrives on taking a concept and guiding it to fruition, turning rooms into exceptional works of beauty. With an ability to meticulously execute projects from

inception to completion, Quinn’s creative process is marked by an autonomy that allows her to make countless micro-level decisions, ensuring every detail aligns with the approved design concept and budget.

The heart of Quinn’s design philosophy rests in the notion of balance and harmony. Her approach is to cultivate a sense of tranquility while introducing striking elements that define a space. Quinn’s designs reflect her affinity for mixing styles, natural materials, and a dedication to layering textures. The result is often an infusion of custom woodwork and architectural detailing that adds depth and character.

Striving to craft spaces that draw in occupants, Quinn is not pigeonholed into specific styles. Instead, she skillfully combines elements that are not conventionally paired, achieving a balance that ensures rooms feel neither masculine nor feminine. One of the hallmarks of her work is her mastery of lighting and hardware, which add the finishing touches and amplify the wow factor.

DYNAMIC DESIGNERS

Tanya Shively, the visionary behind WELL Designed™ Homes, aims to revolutionize the construction and design industries by promoting healthy and sustainable practices. As the creator of exceptional homes, Shively goes beyond traditional green design, crafting living spaces that inspire well-being through aesthetics, functionality and sustainability.

TANYA SHIVELY

SESSHU DESIGN

Growing up amid the breathtaking landscapes of Wyoming’s Grand Tetons, Shively developed an appreciation for hard work and nature from an early age. At 12 years old, she discovered a passion for designing when her parents offered her the opportunity to design her bedroom and even provided the funds. This experience ignited her lifelong love for interior design.

Shively’s design journey was also influenced by her father’s severe asthma, which necessitated careful consideration of respiratory health in every space designed or redesigned. In 2005, driven by her desire to create sustainable luxury, she founded Sesshu Design Associates in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Through her eco-luxe design experience, Shively collaboratively creates WELL Designed™ Homes that reflect her clients’ lifestyles and personalities. Working with wellness-minded individuals who seek

luxurious and healthy living spaces, she specializes in crafting new residences and remodeling existing ones for top-level professionals, entrepreneurs, and accomplished individuals.

As one of the region’s leading designers, Shively is known for specifying furniture, carpeting and paint free of toxins, providing her clients with homes that promote well-being. Her award-winning work has garnered national attention, and she is recognized as Arizona’s authority on green design. Her contributions to luxury lifestyle publications have further solidified her standing as a prominent figure in the industry.

Shively’s dedication to exceptional customer service and commitment to creating one-ofa-kind, luxurious and eco-friendly interiors sets her apart as a distinguished interior designer in Arizona and makes her a trailblazer in green design.

DYNAMIC DESIGNERS

KT Tamm is a visionary interior designer whose journey from the heartlands of the Midwest to the vibrant tapestry of design in Arizona has shaped her unique perspective on spaces. Tamm’s early exposure to her father and grandfather’s plastering contracting business ignited her fascination with forms and shapes. The tactile experience of creating with lath

KT TAMM

and trowels and the scent of wet plaster left an indelible mark on her young mind.

Transitioning to the 80s and a pivotal relocation to Phoenix marked the genesis of Tamm’s illustrious career in interior design. She embarked on a collaborative venture intertwining retail home furnishings with interior design, specializing in unique Southwest decor. This venture etched in her the significance of impeccable service and its pivotal role in business success.

As time progressed, Tamm’s passion evolved into design and structures. She cultivated invaluable partnerships with esteemed architects and builders, connecting her to a diverse clientele spanning the nation. She fostered a community of talented artists, diligent vendors, industrious workrooms, and aspiring designers who evolved from apprentices to integral parts of her Old Town Scottsdale design practice.

Today, Tamm wears multiple hats as the founder, principal and lead designer of KT Tamm, Inc., a full-service interior design studio in Scottsdale. She embraces roles of project manager, marketer, content creator and even a bit psychologist. Her portfolio encompasses a broad spectrum, from high-end residential projects and extensive remodels to commercial spaces and retail establishments.

Tamm’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that design is an ever-evolving entity. The spirit of growth, exploration and expression remains at the heart of what she does. Her clients’ contentment and self-expression are paramount, and her role is to harness their aesthetic values and guide them through the intricate process of translating their vision into reality. She crafts spaces that radiate warmth and embody a unique essence—areas to be cherished, inhabited and embraced.

KT TAMM INC

CHECK

All aboard! We’re setting sail on a luxe yacht to seek fall style that embraces chic checked patterns, bold reds and on-trend power suiting.

By ICONIC LIFE

IT

OU T

SUIT YOURSELF

Tom Ford jumpsuit, Alaïa shoes, Tom Ford clutch, Wunderkind Scottsdale, Bugatti eyewear by Euro Collective.

ALL ABOARD

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Renee Dee, PHOTOGRAPHER: Mark

Sacro, LIGHTING: Jun Mapue, STYLING: Wunderkind

Scottsdale and Max Mara South Coast Plaza, MAKEUP AND HAIR: Adam Harwood and Celina Mata-Valle, Charlotte

Tilbury, MODEL: Marcela from The Industry LA, EDITOR-

IN-CHIEF: Kaitlyn Beickel, VIDEO CREW: Bitfire Studios,

LOCATION: Sprezzatura at Lido Marina, Fishman Worldwide

Max Mara dress and coat, South Coast Plaza. Jimmy Choo shoes.

ROCK THE BOAT

Alexander McQueen

tulle dress, Alaïa shoes, Wunderkind Scottsdale.

INSPIRATION

What’s a day on a luxury yacht without high fashion? Combining Charlotte Tilbury beauty with fashion inspired by the bold reds, patterns and contrast of this year’s runway looks, we’re sailing into fall with an eye on chic checkered looks that rock the boat.

YACHT ROCK

Jonathan Simkhai skirt, Sacai jacket, Alexander McQueen t-shirt, Wunderkind Scottsdale, Bugatti eyewear by Euro Collective.

ELEGANCE ON BOARD

Max Mara dress, South Coast Plaza. Jimmy Choo heels.

REALITY CHECK

Max Mara dress and Max Mara jacket, South Coast Plaza. Jimmy Choo heels.

Gastronomic Gems

By Sam Micatrotto

It’s truffle-hunting season, and we can’t wait to unearth this aromatic treasure.

In the opulent realm of culinary delights, few treasures rival the enigmatic allure of truffles. Considered the “diamonds of the kitchen” by renowned gastronome Jean Anthelme BrillatSavarin, truffles are highly prized for their exquisite taste and aroma. They have become a staple in the finest cuisines, including Italian and French haute gastronomy.

Indulge your senses as we embark on a gastronomic journey to unravel the secrets of truffles. From their mysterious origins to the meticulous art of harvesting, and the seductive culinary applications that have enchanted the palates of the discerning elite, prepare to be whisked away to truffle hunting season.

WHAT ARE TRUFFLES?

Truffles are fungi grown underground and cultivated and harvested in select regions throughout the world. These elusive treasures grow around the roots of trees, favoring hosts such as poplar, beech and oak. They have a distinctive musky aroma and a rich, earthy flavor prized by chefs and food lovers. While numerous truffle varieties exist, not all are safe for human consumption. Many wild and non-commercial types are toxic, requiring caution and expertise in discerning the edible ones.

Distributed worldwide, truffles manifest in many varieties distinguished by their color, shape, size and flavor. Unlike the typical capped mushrooms such as boletus fungi, truffles closely resemble small potatoes at first glance. However, do not be deceived by their appearance, as these natural marvels are bursting with unparalleled flavor.

Truffles can be found in many places, but they mainly flourish in the bountiful regions of France and Italy. Among the most prevalent truffle species is the alba, or white truffle, captivating the senses with its delectable aroma. Growing abundantly in Italy, France and Spain, these exquisite mushrooms can fetch prices as high as $2,300 per pound.

If you have yet to experience the pleasure of truffles, you are undoubtedly missing out on an extraordinary encounter that has the potential to transform your culinary journey forever.

THE YIN AND YANG OF TRUFFLES

While the world of truffles boasts more than 200 varieties, each with its unique flavor, price and usage, they can generally be classified into two categories—black truffles and white truffles.

Black truffles are more accessible to the average home cook with their affordable price tag. While their aroma may be less pronounced, their robust flavor withstands the heat, making them perfect for enhancing sauces, infusing compound butters or enriching indulgent risottos.

White truffles, the epitome of delicacy, originate from the northern regions of Italy. They are a gourmet treasure infused with an intense, pungent aroma. White truffles are typically savored raw and sparingly, given their rarity and potent flavor. The decadence of shaved white truffles delicately gracing elegant dishes like pasta and risotto elevates them to new heights. A mere touch of this prized delicacy can transform an exquisite creation into a culinary masterpiece.

ON THE SCENT

Shaped like small, asymmetrical balls, truffles emit a distinctive earthy aroma and offer a flavor profile unlike any other. Historically, truffle hunting employed female pigs due to their acute sense of smell and their attraction to androstenol, a hormone found in truffles. Pigeons, surprisingly adept hunters with proper training, can also assist in the search for these subterranean delicacies. However, dogs have taken over this role due to their ease of training and aversion to consuming the truffles once detected.

Truffle hunting occurs in such picturesque landscapes as New Zealand, North America’s Pacific Northwest, New York and Australia, and the renowned truffle havens of Tuscany; Alba in Piedmont, Italy; and the Périgord region in France.

Harvesting a truffle requires a delicate process. Once mature, the truffle is carefully excavated by digging up the plant, selectively removing sections of the root system at various depths and replanting the remaining portion to ensure future growth.

IN THE KITCHEN

With their distinctive mushroom-like flavor, truffles possess an intensity that sets them apart from ordinary fungi. Describing their taste can be challenging, but once you experience it, you’ll understand why they are so highly revered in culinary circles.

Some compare the flavor of truffles to the scent memory of a summertime forest floor after a refreshing rain, with a vibrant green freshness. Others liken them to a savory, meaty profile with hints of nuttiness or brininess reminiscent of the finest green olives. It’s a taste that must be savored to truly appreciate its allure.

Working with fresh truffles requires some finesse, as these delicate ingredients can be temperamental. Here are a few tips to make the most of your truffle experience in the comfort of your kitchen:

Let the truffles shine: Allow truffles to take center stage by incorporating them into mild recipes that highlight their distinctive flavors. Cream sauces and potato-based dishes are ideal companions, allowing the truffles to stand out.

Master the mandoline: To maximize the truffle’s impact, use a mandoline to achieve the thinnest slices possible. While it may seem excessive, this technique ensures you extract the full flavor of the truffle.

Embrace gentle heat: Avoid subjecting fresh truffles to excessive or rapid heat, which can diminish their flavor and aroma. Opt for low or no-heat cooking methods to preserve their delicate qualities.

Truffles offer more than just a sumptuous dining experience—they also can be used to infuse other foods with their exquisite aroma. Truffle oil stands as a prime example of its versatility. With its robust aroma, truffle oil should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering other flavors in a dish. Commonly made with olive oil, it beautifully complements cuisine with its smooth and distinct flavor.

Indulge in a simple pleasure by drizzling a touch of truffle oil over popcorn, elevating this classic snack with a burst of unexpected flavor. Heighten the experience by infusing the oil with white peppercorns and fresh thyme leaves before drizzling it over lightly salted kernels.

Another popular method of incorporating truffles into dishes is to thinly shave them on top of a cooked meal. Pasta dishes, risottos, sauces, and grated truffles sprinkled over seafood or meat are all common applications.

Photography by Paul Moore

ward

MOTION door

What is the secret behind opening the world’s heaviest doors and windows?

By Kaitlyn Beickel

Enormous, beautiful doors and windows have become highly sought-after design elements in today’s modern homes and businesses, appearing in luxury spaces worldwide. While a 12-foot or taller door makes a statement, opening something that large can be a challenge. So, what if your door could automatically open for you instead?

That’s the benefit of PJ and Brenda Gruetzmacher’s latest venture, Summit Automation, dedicated to bringing windows and doors to life through automation that brings the outside in.

“I spent more than 30 years in the aerospace industry,” PJ Gruetzmacher, CEO of Summit Automation, says. Bringing his technical expertise from his impressive career background, including eight years in construction and serving in the U.S. Army in Military Intelligence, his experience was essential in propelling Summit Automation’s success.

With his wife, Brenda, chief financial officer for Summit Automation, the duo knew that they had to find their own business to escape frequent travel, spend more time with their family and follow their passions.

“We’ve essentially turned the company from a small shop into a well-run business with room for enormous growth and

international footprint, with wide acceptance by the world’s largest and most recognizable door and window manufacturers.” PJ Gruetzmacher says.

A cutting-edge company, Summit Automation invents, engineers, manufactures and provides automation system solutions sought by leading architects, builders, door manufacturers and installers—more so than other automation solutions on the market according to PJ.

Dependable, smooth, quiet, and safe products are the key reason that Summit Automation is a top choice among the leaders in the design industry. The only ETL Listed and UL325 Compliant systems available on the market, safety and security are top priorities for the Gruetzmacher duo.

Designed for a modern lifestyle, Summit Automation solutions are controllable via interior or exterior keypads, touch screens, biometric scanners, smart motion sensors, tamper-proof security code-operated boxes, secure phone apps, and wireless key FOBs. By installing an automation solution, heavy doors and windows are opened effortlessly, adding elegance and luxury to a space.

When opportunity knocks, don’t open the door yourself—build a smarter home that opens the door for you with Summit Automation.

IN

Drinking Sights IN THE WineValleyNapa Country

From St. Helena to Yountville, this girls’ trip to Napa Valley was a top-shelf experience.

By Renee Dee

It all started with a podcast that turned into a new friendship. Late last year, I had the opportunity to visit with the legendary Tor Kenward about his new book, Memories of a Vintner. He shared stories from his 50-year career working with other Napa notables like Thomas Keller, Julia Child and Robert Mondavi and how they ignited the flame that turned Napa Valley into an exquisite culinary capital.

He also recounted his memory of the Judgement of Paris in 1976, where a Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and a chardonnay by Chateau Montelena Winery’s winemaker Michael Grgich won for the first time against French wines.

More than 40 years later, Tor’s wine would win the replay of that ICONIC competition in 2020.

Some things go full circle.

Listen to the Tor Kenward episode of our Iconic Hour podcast.

Photography courtesy of Meadowood Napa Valley

The podcast ended with Tor inviting me to revisit Napa and say hello when I did. Leaving no generous invitation behind, I made plans for my trip. What I didn’t know was that I would experience all the heights I’d hoped for and discover a renewed love of the place that treated me so well.

Leaning on my ICONIC LIFE friendships, I landed in Oakland and grabbed my Go Rentals SUV. An hour later, I was on local roads passing vineyard after vineyard, remembering some and remarking about the region’s massive growth since I last visited.

As we passed Grgich Hills on the left, I recalled meeting Michael Grgich in his signature beret on the last trip. This time around, I learned of the festivities and even got invited to his 100th birthday party, clearly a triumph that speaks of the good living in Napa.

On the way to our resort, the very charming Oakville Grocery answered the call of our growling stomachs with gourmet salads, limited-production cheeses and, of course, bubbly by the glass. Sitting on the patio, overlooking vineyards and the Napa Valley Wine Train, we had no idea how good we’d soon have it.

We arrived at Meadowood Napa Valley, one of the most romantic retreats in California and one of the earliest luxury resorts in Napa Valley, to find lush, tree-lined roads and charming, private grounds below the ridges of the surrounding wooded canyons.

The lodgings, sprinkled across the canyon for privacy and serenity, combine the wine country’s distinctive blend of rustic and refined materials. Our tree-lined suite was light and airy with cottage-style interiors, a fireplace that can be used year-round and French doors opening to a scenic deck, perfect for morning coffee or a late-evening glass of wine.

The resort staff was welcoming, as if we were staying at a friend’s home. From the pool to the spa to Forum for dining, we felt immersed in nature in our local St. Helena accommodations. We checked in briefly but were soon on the run for our first Napa Valley appointment, a tasting with Tor at Wheeler Farms in St. Helena.

The winemaking center sits on 12 acres and includes gardens, orchards, a state-of-the-art winery, vineyards, and a tasting room with an open kitchen, from which savory canapés prepared by the culinary team were presented. We tasted a curated selection of wines with Tor and thoroughly enjoyed the conversation with one of Napa’s ICONIC figures. He treated us to his 2019 TOR Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, earning 100 points.

Tor gave us an excellent overview of the region and the 16 viticultural areas of the Valley, including boutique grape growers who supply the best of the best fruit. Throughout the trip, this education formed the foundation for our deeper understanding of the area. Two “Live Beautifully” hours later, before we departed, Tor introduced us to literally the other man I wanted to meet on this trip … he randomly stopped by.

“Renee, you’re going to be pretty excited to meet this guy,” he said, introducing me to David Breeden, chef de cuisine at The French Laundry, the most coveted restaurant reservation on my bucket list. Within minutes, my return trip to Napa and a dream dinner were in the works. Who’s coming with me in September?

That evening, we dined at Forum on the property at the Meadowood. The highly acclaimed Restaurant at Meadowood, the former home of Michelin-starred Chef Christopher Kostow, is closed now, but plans are in the works for his return. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner featuring local ingredients and top-shelf service. This would not be the only time during our trip to experience fresh spring peas.

The next morning an exquisite spread of coffee, fruit and pastry was delivered to our outside deck to enjoy with birds chirping and soft breezes. This perfect start to my day led me up the road to the rustic spa house. Both the resort and the spa have received the Forbes five-star award, and this spa has officially received my praise as my favorite, from the architecture to the interiors. Each treatment room is a suite with a full bath and aromatic steam shower.

I enjoyed the signature massage with the Essential Journey add-on that included a consultation with my knowledgeable therapist, who offered tips on daily habits for well-being. The service started with a steam shower, for which I selected a personalized scent. About 15 minutes later, I was immersed in a heated spa bed, where I had an expert massage followed by an organic cold-pressed juice and meditation time in the garden.

I walked my highly relaxed self to the pool. Rather than chase around and spoil the tranquil state, I stayed at the pool all afternoon to enjoy the fresh air and quiet surroundings. Later that day, I was introduced to Kelli White, the director of the Meadowood Wine Center, who has developed a robust offering of wine experiences, classes and tours to elevate any Napa trip.

We recently heard that PRESS had earned its first Michelin star, so we knew its tasting menu had our name on it. Its high ceilings with beams and a fireplace centerpiece felt so Napa to us, exuding high-end wine country vibes and boasting the most extensive collection of Napa wines in the world, thanks to Samantha Rudd. We were impressed by Chef Philip Tessier, who presented a beautiful tasting menu that night, starting with, yes, fresh green pea gremolata as a palette cleanser.

A tip: When offered a caviar pretzel at PRESS, say yes. It’s an enhancement to the menu, but memorable and decadent. We enjoyed Kusshi oysters with green fig mignonette and whipped coconut water, squash blossoms with Parmigiano Reggiano, and American Wagyu with horseradish leaf and morel jus. We finished with a decadent chocolate dessert with hints of orange and olive oil sorbet. The service and the plating were equally impressive. I highly recommend it.

Following a decadent, let’s admit it, calorie-laden meal, we embarked on two of Napa’s best pastimes to burn the calories … so to say … hiking and wine tasting (hey, there can be a lot of walking and arm lifting when touring a winery.)

With the bar set oh so high, we visited a friend’s Silver Trident vineyard in Yountville. We had our first-ever craft potato chip pairing with wine in a Ralph Lauren Home gallery. The entire town of Yountville is charming and home to many wonderful restaurants, like Thomas Keller’s Ad Hoc, Bouchon (where we dined that night) and La Calenda.

You can’t visit Napa without stopping at the oldest, most ICONIC destination, Silverado. The 150-year-old landmark began as a private estate and now boasts two championship golf courses, three swimming pools, tennis courts and a 16,000-square-foot spa. We dined at The Grill for lunch and returned to the Mansion Bar & Terrace later. Renovations are underway at this historic spot, with announcements coming soon.

As we continued our wine-tasting journey, the goal was quality over quantity, filling our glasses with good wine and our hearts with great conversation.

Given that we had been tasting and drinking 100-point wines for the first half of our trip, our concierge recommended Lithology, near Meadowood, for a tasting in the exquisite Alejandro Bulgheroni Estate.

Our host that afternoon shared that Napa has some of the world’s most diverse soils in any wine region, produced by the movement of the earth’s plates. Lithology is named for the study of the rocks that make soils, particularly in this region. They call their wines terroir-driven wines inspired by the earth. And we enjoyed the full-bodied, earthy wines we were served.

With a bold goal by the team to produce the best wines in Napa, we tasted four—100 points, 99 points, 98 points, 99 points. (Who could go home and drink wine after this?)

We finished our trip with a truly lovely tour of an exquisite winery with beautiful gardens, a bucolic farm table under a canopy of grapevines and a modern tasting room overlooking a pond. We visited the wine cave and grounds of Rudd Winery, and the story of the family’s commitment to quality and passion for wine was an inspiring end to a beautiful trip.

The late Leslie Rudd fulfilled a dream by getting his hands on exactly the property he wanted, and his wife, Susan, oversaw acres and acres of manicured gardens and stunning outdoor spaces. Today, their daughter, Samantha Rudd (yes, owns PRESS), oversees the winery with an eye toward organic farming. The wines have a depth comparable to the experience on the property.

This idyllic spot was the perfect capstone for a trip that surpassed our expectations. The judges have given it the maximum number of points.

ROUTE S CEN THE

By Sam Micatrotto

It’s that time of year again. Crisp air greeting us first thing in the morning, pumpkin spiced … well, just about everything lining the grocery store shelves, and the excitement of the upcoming holiday season swiftly approaching.

But perhaps the most significant indicator of change is when the lush green tree line turns bold shades of yellow, orange, copper and red. These magical autumn displays taking place across the country offer an enticing reason to head out of town and take in the views. Here are ICONIC’s picks for some of the best fall foliage spots across the U.S.

Enjoy a kaleidoscope of colors from coast to coast…check out where to see the best leaves of the season.

THE OZARKS Arkansas

While you may have heard of the Ozarks from a TV series of the same name, the 1.2 million acres of breathtaking views have plenty to offer. Beginning the second week of October and through early November, the Ozark Mountains’ beauty is at its peak, and the palette of beautiful colors is in full swing.

Due to the Ozarks being home to many species of trees, the color changes can happen at various times, providing a broad timeframe to experience the fall foliage and surrounding wilderness. While reveling in the scenery and fresh air, take advantage of the amazing stargazing opportunities. Also, keep your eye out for elk, as they can often be seen this time of year.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

North Carolina and Tennessee

In addition to being one of the most visited National Parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to 100 species of native trees, making the kaleidoscope of fall colors even more magnificent. Soak in this sea of reds, oranges and yellows with a hike to Looking Glass Falls on the North Carolina side of the park or a drive through Cades Cove on the Tennessee side.

No matter which route you choose, be sure you don’t miss the changing fall leaves by checking the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Prediction Map before you plan your trip.

TUNNEL OF TREES Michigan

One of Northern Michigan’s not-so-bestkept-secrets, the Tunnel of Trees is a jaw-dropping 20-mile scenic drive following the historic M-119 highway. As its name suggests, in the fall months, you’ll find yourself beneath a leafy ceiling of golds, oranges and crimsons as you drive through its 135 curves along the coastal bluff of Lake Michigan, near Harbor Springs.

At about 45 mph, it will take approximately 40 minutes to go from one end of the Tunnel of Trees to the other. However, if you stop and visit some of the many attractions along the way, it’s easy to spend half a day exploring the area.

ASPEN Colorado

Given that this mining town is named for the abundance of aspen trees, it’s no surprise that leaf-peeping is almost considered a sport here. Just 160 miles southwest of Denver, the town is the perfect spot to enjoy fall colors while getting fresh air through various outdoor activities.

Whether you want to explore local hiking trails, take an ATV down scenic roads, kayak the Roaring Fork or Colorado River or get an aerial view by paragliding, you will be immersed in autumn colors painted across a snow-capped mountain backdrop.

THE BERKSHIRES

Massachusetts

If you’re looking for a place to experience fall foliage with a side of charm, the Berkshires, located about 130 miles west of Boston, will check that box. Peak foliage season is mid-October. However, you can start seeing the yellow and orange hues as early as late September. Take in the beauty and enjoy the best view of the vivid hues with a hike on a trail on Mount Greylock, the highest peak in the Berkshires at almost 3,500 feet.

When you’re ready for a break from the outdoors, the Berkshires also feature a deep-rooted food culture and world-class arts and entertainment.

JULIAN California

While Southern California isn’t exactly known for its diversity of seasons, this former mining town is. Escape the sandy beaches and palm trees, if only for a day and visit Julian, just an hour outside San Diego.

Volcan Mountain is home to some of the oldest and largest black oaks in San Diego County, and the view is spectacular in fall.

Julian offers prime foliage displays and another favorite fall activity, apple picking. Famous for its apple pie, be sure to stop by Julian Pie Company for an authentic Julian experience.

Journey to ATACAMA,

CHILE & BOLIVIA

It's magical to explore where few have been. This journey takes us to uniquely stunning and remote destinations, including luxury lodges recently opened in Bolivia.

By David Rubin

SANTIAGO, CHILE

It is best to fly into Santiago, Chile’s capital and largest city. Sites include the Plaza de Armas, the grand heart of the city’s old colonial core with two neoclassical landmarks. In the bohemian Bellavista part of the city, visit Casa Museo La Chascona, the former home of famed poet Pablo Neruda and his wife, Matilde, as portrayed in the 1995 film Il Postino.

Include a visit to The Museum of Memory and Human Rights. It focuses thoughtfully on the human rights violations committed by the Chilean state between 1973 and 1990.

ATACAMA DESERT, CHILE

After leaving Santiago, the first adventure chapter of this journey is the 300-mile travesía (“long journey” or “crossing”) that begins in Atacama, Chile, and takes you to Uyuni, Bolivia.

You will fly from Santiago to Calama (CJC) and take a 1.5-hour drive to the San Pedro de Atacama, the Atacama Desert in the

north of Chile. Atacama is the highest altitude and driest nonpolar desert in the world. There are excellent lodges providing top-notch accommodations, meals, and exceptional guides to help you explore.

Surprisingly, you will see oases burst to life in fertile river valleys and on semi-arid plateaus, as well as the planet’s tallest volcano, highest geysers, oldest mummies and clearest skies. Excursions bring you to explore flamingo-filled lagoons, llama and vicuna-filled plains, multi-hued hot springs, geysers, and panoramas of 6,000-meter-plus peaks.

Thanks to Atacama’s remote location, high altitude, and lack of rain and light pollution, the desert’s night skies are among the darkest and clearest on Earth. As a result, Atacama is one of the best places on the planet for stargazing.

A highlight is a visit to the Tatio geyser field, the third largest geothermal area of its kind in the world, at a staggering height of 14,170 feet above sea level. Here, geysers erupt every minute or so, engulfing all those nearby in thick, warm steam.

Nayara Alto Atacama, Hotel Magnolia, Santiago, Chile, Explora Atacama, Nayara Alto Atacama

TRAVESÍA ATACAMA TO UYUNI

Leaving Atacama, your travesía takes you to western Bolivia, an overland journey through one of the most remote regions of South America, the Altiplano of Bolivia. It is the most extensive area of high plateau outside of Tibet. Here, you will experience surreal landscapes and colors.

At its peak in the 15th century, this travesía was part of a nomadic journey called Qhapaq Ñan, an ancient Incan trail that extends more than 18,600 miles. Today, your travesía will shine a light on the beauty of the region and provide glimpses into the lives and culture of the indigenous Aymara people.

Explora is an exceptional company that pioneered luxury eco-adventure travel in South America. The Explora travesía Atacama to Uyuni route takes travelers from their Explora Atacama lodge in Chile to their two new Explora mountain lodges, Explora Ramaditas (four guest rooms) and Explora Chituca (four guest rooms). Staying at each of these lodges for a night or two en route

to Explora Uyuni Lodge is ideal. It divides up the driving time and allows for wonderful exploration. Sites include Colorada Lagoon, Turquiri Lagoon, Pescado Island and Gruta de Las Galaxias caves. Your last stop on the travesía is the Uyuni Salt Flat, and the Explora Uyuni (6 guest rooms) is perched ideally on a cliff with stunning views of the salt flat.

As of March 2023, Explora Ramaditas, Explora Chituca and Explora Uyuni lodges began welcoming guests, and they are the No. 1 luxury choice here. Remote, isolated and surrounded by nature, Explora Ramaditas, Chituca and Uyuni are your sublime luxury sanctuaries. For me, after exploring by day, it was magical to be cozy and relaxed in my room made of natural, beautiful materials with a fantastic king-size bed, sumptuous sheets, blankets and duvet looking out onto breathtaking nature. I enjoyed perfect heating, a hot shower, excellent service, expert guides and fine cuisine.

After staying at Explora Uyuni, a fun option for a night is to stay on the salt flat in an Airstream trailer with comfortable, simple interiors and step out onto the salt. As an alternative to the overland travesía and with a focus on visiting the Uyuni Salt Flat, there are easy, non-stop one-hour flights between Uyuni and La Paz, Bolivia.

BOLIVIA’S UYUNI SALT FLAT

Upon reaching Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flat, you will be surrounded by one of the most remarkable landscapes in the world. It is a vista of white salt that extends to the horizon, covered by quilted, polygonal salt patterns and some magical rock formations. The salt is white and seemingly endless, with no roads and few signs of man. It is more than 4,000 square miles, which is about the size of Jamaica. The salt crust ranges from 9 to 30 feet thick, amounting to about 10 billion tons of salt. It was created by the evaporation of prehistoric lakes. Then, salt deposits leached from the surrounding mountains and, with no outlet to the sea, were deposited here, the lowest point on the Altiplano plateau. It is tranquil and mesmerizing.

POTOSÍ AND SUCRE, BOLIVIA

The next chapter of your adventure takes you on a journey to discover some of the wonders and history of Bolivia. From Uyuni, travel overland with an expert guide for a long, pleasant day trip to Potosí, ending in Sucre, Bolivia. Potosí became an imperial city in 1572 and prospered following the discovery of its silver mines. Sucre is the capital of Bolivia. The Spanish founded it in the first half of the 16th century, and it has many well-preserved 16th-century buildings.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

A “Best of the Best” recommended itinerary:

1. 2 nights in Santiago, Chile, at Hotel Magnolia, Singular Santiago, Ritz Carlton Santiago, Mandarin Oriental Santiago, W Santiago or Hyatt Centric (great value).

2. 3 - 5 nights in San Pedro de Atacama (Atacama Desert), Chile, at Nayara Alto Atacama, Tierra Atacama, Explora Atacama or Hotel Cumbres Atacama (excellent value).

3. 1 - 2 nights in the Altiplano, Bolivia, at Explora Ramaditas.

4. 1 - 2 nights in the Altiplano, Bolivia, at Explora Chituca.

5. 3 - 5 nights in Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flat), Bolivia, at Explora Uyuni, Hotel De Sal Luna Salada, Hotel Palacio de Sal, or Airstream trailers (on the salt, simple interiors).

6. 1 - 3 nights in Sucre, Bolivia, at ON Hotel, Parador Santa María La Real, Mi Pueblo Samary Hotel or nearby at Sky Hacienda.

7. 2 - 3 nights in La Paz, Bolivia, at Casa Grande, Atix Hotel or MET Hotel.

8. 2 - 4 nights in Lake Titicaca on Sun Island, Bolivia, at Posada del Inca Eco-Lodge or Ecolodge La Estancia.

9. 2 - 4 nights in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, at Los Tajibos, Alfonsina Hotel, Hotel Osho or Hampton by Hilton.

10. 2 - 4 nights in Lima, Peru, at B Hotel, Belmond Miraflores Park, JW Marriott or AC Hotel.

Illustration by Jaclyn Threadgill

THE GIFT OF GIVING

You can help combat child poverty in Bolivia through the Alalay Foundation. Consider sponsoring a child or making a donation. The foundation’s mission is to help change economic and social poverty conditions in high-risk children, young people and families through prevention and protection plans. During the past 23 years, Alalay has helped 22,000 children.

Currently, Alalay supports nine children’s homes and 11 care programs in the Bolivian cities of La Paz, El Alto, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz. Alalay defends all children’s rights according to the principles promoted by the United Nations Children Rights Convention.

Donate today to the Alalay Foundation

Posada del Inca Ecolodge on Sun Island, David Rubin, Explora Chituca Lodge, David Rubin

LA PAZ, BOLIVIA

Next, fly to the administrative capital of Bolivia, La Paz, with several stylish hotels. La Paz is worth exploring and is your air hub for travel within Bolivia. Highlights include an eight-course tasting menu at Gustu (founded by Noma co-founder Claus Meyer in 2012), dinner at Ancestral, and a visit to the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) with its surreal moon-like landscape.

BEYOND LA PAZ IN BOLIVIA

Additional great, less explored destinations in Bolivia include Lake Titicaca (Moon Island and Sun Island), Santa Cruz, the Samaipata ruins, the Maragua Crater and Mashi Refuge in Madidi National Park.

LIMA, PERU

Lima, Peru, is a good air hub for international flights, with many non-stop flights worldwide. Lima offers a vibrant food scene ranked among the top foodie destinations in the world. Lima’s Central Restaurante is ranked No. 1 in the 2023 World’s 50 Best list. After traveling in Bolivia, Lima feels cosmopolitan and chic, with several fine hotels, excellent museums, lively bars and cafes and outstanding restaurants. Beyond Lima, recommended Peruvian destinations include Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, the Nazca Lines, Arequipa, Caral, Kuelap, Huacachina, Islas Ballestas, and thousands of miles of the Amazon rainforest.

To book your business and leisure travels worldwide, call on David Rubin and his team at DavidTravel. In 1996, Rubin moved from a successful law practice, followed a deep passion for travel and launched his travel company. For more than a decade, he has been on the Travel + Leisure Magazine “A-List” and the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine “Specialist List” of the best travel advisors in the world. DavidTravel delivers unparalleled style, attention to detail, and insider access, uniquely responding to each client’s goals, budget, interests and dreams. Request@DavidTravel.com. www.DavidTravel.com

By Sam Micatrotto

FASHION FORCE

In the realm of high fashion, where elegance and opulence converge, few brands captivate our attention like the ICONIC Louis Vuitton. Renowned for its timeless designs and exquisite craftsmanship, the brand has joined forces with the maestro of music and style, Pharrell Williams, to create a collection that harmonizes luxury and creativity like never before.

Combining Williams’ boundless creativity with the unmatched artistry of Louis Vuitton, this collaboration is a crescendo of luxury that caters to the most astute fashion connoisseurs.

In his approach to designing this collection, Williams focuses not on philosophical musings or extensive research but on understanding the customer—himself. He sees himself as not the creative director but the client, embodying the essence of the Louis Vuitton consumer.

Drawing inspiration from his own style, Williams showcases a collection that reflects his penchant for blending streetwear, luxury, skate culture and precise tailoring. The group is divided into five distinct pillars, each catering to a specific occasion, to achieve this combination of personal style and the diverse wardrobe needs of Louis Vuitton’s esteemed clientele.

The Dandy offers formal wear for special occasions; Comfort provides effortless elegance for everyday activities; Resort embodies the spirit of vacationing; Sport caters to physical activities; and Core Staples presents timeless pieces Williams will reinvent each season.

With his signature playfulness, Williams also reimagined “LV” as “LVovers,” a clever nod to his home state’s slogan, “Virginia Is for Lovers.” This innovative twist captures the collection’s essence, inviting wearers to embrace a love for life, exquisite details and exciting adventures.

Standout pieces include the redesigned varsity jacket embellished with rhinestones and a Louis Vuitton script logo. The fusion of camouflage and the ICONIC Damier pattern creates a new print, “Damoflage,” adorning denim, knits, fur and tailoring. Each garment exudes a sense of individuality, staying true to Pharrell’s distinctive identity while remaining timeless and elegant.

With its playful spirit and irreverent charm, this collection invites you to celebrate your individuality and embrace the power of self-expression. Step into the limelight and let your style conduct a symphony of sophistication that resonates with your unique personality.

Discover the transformative power of personal style with the Louis Vuitton Pharrell Williams Collection, a collection designed to cater to every fashion enthusiast.

Photography by © Louis Vuitton

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