Sonora West Development is a premier design-build firm servicing Scottsdale, Arizona and surrounding areas. From selecting an architect and exterior detailing, to interior selection and even financing, our strength is providing the homeowner with a total solution for your building requirements. Building a custom home with Sonora West gives you the peace of mind that you will be working with our award-winning team from initial conception to completion. Our method of integrating the designer and contractor creates one seamless and unified work flow. This ensures the homeowner gets the best possible value out of their home while providing clear communication and allowing for collaboration between you and the Sonora West team.
Creating beautiful gardens is our business…what you do in them is yours.
berghoffdesign.com
“LUMINOSITY ”
NEW WORKS FROM ARTISTS
FRANCIS LIVINGSTON & ROBERT LADUKE
NOVEMBER 7-30, 2024
FRANCIS LIVINGSTON
“On Point,” oil on panel, 24" x 12"
ROBERT LADUKE
“Racer,” acrylic on panel, 12" x 12"
PEREGRINE HEATHCOTE
DECEMBER 12-JANUARY 18
ARTIST RECEPTION: Friday, Dec. 13, 6:00-8:30 pm
Peregrine Heathcote will be joining us all the way from London to visit with his local collectors. Contact the gallery for more information - space is limited.
“Isle of Harris” oil on canvas
20" x 30"
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
A State of Mind
Experience pure, quiet luxury A WAY OF LIFE
EXPERIENCE A REALM OF QUIET LUXURY
Transform your lifestyle with enduring elegance in every detail. Our heirloom quality furniture, home furnishings, and original works of art are handcrafted in America using only the finest materials and methods of craftsmanship.
Create a state of quiet, subtly stated luxury in your home by customizing any of our timeless home furnishings to fit your space and way of life.
Specializing in Custom Orders • Worldwide Shipping • Made in the USA
FINE CUSTOM CABINETRY + ARCHITECTURAL MILLWORK
THE FINEST WOOD FLOORING IN THE WORLD
Burba Trulsson
Nakayla Shakespeare
ANOTHER TRIP AROUND THE SUN
Renee M. Dee Publisher
renee@iconiclife.com
@iconiclifemag
@iconicreneedee
It’s almost another year around the sun, and Mother Nature put the pedal to the metal in 2024. In what was a lightning-fast year, there is so much to be grateful for and to remember! Thank you to our friends and clients who supported us all year long. We can’t do this without you. Your continued partnership means the world to my team and to me.
This year marked some fun highlights, such as our launch of ICONIC LIFE Longevity, “Your Guide to Living Long and Living Well.” I loved our inaugural issue in January because we used so many fresh and beautiful images and having a single theme throughout this issue made everything work so well together. It’s one of my faves this year.
In April, we published our historic Black & White issue, an issue that was printed in black and white on special paper. Our own Nakayla Shakespeare suggested the idea early in the year, and her vision was fully realized when we recently won an award for this single issue at the national magazine Folio Eddie and Ozzie Awards in New York last month. Seeing our clients get excited about this issue was so fun, and it will always be a part of the ICONIC legacy.
We partnered with celebrity fashion designer Zang Toi in August for this cover. His national status as one of the leading names in fashion is impressive. He served as creative director for our fashion shoot alongside our cover photographer, Mark Sacro, who has shot every ICONIC LIFE cover minus one, and the result was mind-blowing. Enjoy this fashion spread. It’s a good one! Thank you, Zang and Mark; we love you!
The second year of the ICONIC Design Awards doubled in size with entries and attendees. Our September awards gala has become the design industry’s biggest night out in full black-tie glamor. We can’t wait to celebrate year three on October 11, 2025. The entry portal opens on January 15, 2025.
In September, we did the unimaginable; we got 26 designers in one room for an ICONIC photoshoot celebrating the culmination of four years of our Top Designer recognition.
By the end of the year, we will have produced 20 original and comprehensive events for our clients in Scottsdale, Orange County and two in Palm Desert. We must be creative in our approach and deliver a first-class event. That is the ICONIC brand.
Speaking of Palm Desert, we will launch The Desert Collection of ICONIC LIFE magazine in 2025, serving Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indio, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta and Indian Wells. We are super excited to launch this brand extension in a growing market.
Thank you mostly to my team, who works tirelessly and passionately to produce the leading luxury magazine in Scottsdale. I couldn’t be more proud, excited for the future and appreciative of your support!
Wishing you happy holidays and a new year filled with health, success, new pursuits and new passions!
With Gratitude,
Renee M. Dee
Photography by Chris Loomis
At Dettaglio Interior Design, the emphasis is on teamwork. They approach each project with an open mind, often starting with client's initial ideas and then guiding them through a process of exploration and refinement. This collaborative approach allows them to create homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply personalized.
RENEE
MEG
DOROTHY
ERIN SUWWAN | Publication Designer
NAKAYLA SHAKESPEARE | Editorial Coordinator
NANCY ERDMANN | Features Editor
MARK
CONTRIBUTORS
Nora
Advertising
Aesthetic Assets, Face and Body Rejuvenation Center
Enhancing your GOD-GIVEN ASSETS
Aesthetic Assets is a premier medical spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our highly skilled professionals offer state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge techniques to provide customized solutions for your aesthetic goals. At Aesthetic Assets, we offer non-surgical face and body rejuvenation that will address any concern ranging from hair loss to body sculpting and from skin tightening, lifting and resurfacing to customized facials. We use only FDA approved injectables, however, if you’re seeking a more natural approach, we also offer PRF EZ Gel which uses your own blood, containing stem cells and growth factors for volumizing and rejuvenation. Simply pick the area you’d like to enhance, and we will have a solution for you! Let us help you enhance your Godgiven assets so that you can look and feel like the best version of yourself.
We know aesthetic treatments can be expensive. In an effort to off-set that, we have a very affordable membership program that guarantees a minimum 20% discount on all of our products and services.
Located right here in Scottsdale, we’ve been in business for 10 years and if you find us on Google, you’ll see nearly 300 five-star reviews with stories that speak volumes about the quality, trust, and satisfaction our patients love us for.
cosanstudio.com
THE LIST
By Nakayla Shakespeare
MAESTRO
2.0 Ultra Thin Rose Gold, ($33,100) via Oliver Smith.
PARMIGIANI
Fleurier Tonda PF Skeleton, ($71,000) via Oliver Smith.
GLASHÜTTE
PanoMaticLunar, ($11,200) via Oliver Smith.
Timeless Treasures
Elegant watches make for the perfect gift this holiday season.
Watches are more than just accessories. They’re bespoke, timeless pieces that are often treasured throughout generations. Gifting someone with a watch is giving them a timeless treasure. Here are five gorgeous watches to give for the holidays.
PICCHIOTTI
Caletta, ($23,500) via PICCHIOTTI.
CARTIER
Santos de Cartier Watch, ($7,750) via Oliver Smith.
BVLGARI CARTIER CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN GUCCI LOUIS VUITTON
NEIMAN MARCUS NOBU NORDSTROM OCEAN 44 PRADA SAINT LAURENT VERSACE
By Nakayla Shakespeare
via Wine.com.
Christopher’s CHOICES
The top champagne picks of highly acclaimed, James Beard Foundation award-winning chef, Christopher Gross.
Ring in the new year with these delicious champagnes handpicked by award-winning chef, Christopher Gross. These high-end selections will ignite your taste buds and have you in the celebratory mood all night. Cheers to the new year!
Krug Grand Cuvee. $289.99 via Total Wine.
Billecart Salmon Brut
Sous Bois Champagne. $104.99 via Total Wine.
Champagne Henri
Giraud Ay Fut de Chene MV17 Brut Grand Cru with Wooden Gift Box. $229.99 via Wine.com.
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut. $85.99
Salon Le Mesnil Blanc De Blancs Brut Champagne 2012. $1,049.99 via Total Wine.
Dom Perignon Vintage 2012. $279.97 via Wine.com.
SWriting Her FUTURE
Meet up-and-coming author Peng Shepherd,
who is the one to watch.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
itting down with a good book is something to be treasured. With each page turned, you are engulfed in the riveting, romantic, thrilling or mysterious storyline–depending on your genre style—investing in the character plots to the point where you feel deeply immersed.
If you’re looking for a good read, Peng Shepherd is one of those authors who consistently produces captivating books that leave you wanting more.
Shepherd was born and raised in Phoenix, Ariz. At age five, she knew she wanted to become a writer and would write and illustrate countless books for her mother, Lin.
“I used to make up stories for my mom; she probably got about 100 a day,” Shepherd jokes. “When I was about five or six, my mom decided to laminate and bind one of my stories as a surprise. I thought I had just been published. That was the moment that started it all for me.” Fast forward years later, Shepherd’s childhood dream has become a reality.
Her debut, The Book of M, won the 2019 Neukom Institute for Literary Arts Award for Debut Speculative Fiction and was chosen as the best book of the year by Amazon, Elle, Refinery29, The Verge, and the best book of the summer by the Today show and NPR’s On Point.
Her second novel, The Cartographers, was a finalist for the LA Times Book Prize, named a Best Book of 2022 by The Washington Post, and received a 2020 fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Her most recent novel, All This and More, is about a woman who wins the chance to alter every mistake she’s made
to finally earn her elusive “happily ever after.” The book’s unique structure allows the reader to determine the protagonist’s path by making decisions throughout certain parts of the book.
“I have always wanted to write a book with multiple paths or endings,” Shepherd says. “It lets you ask different questions in a straightforward story. Since you’re the one making the choices for the character about what she changes in her life, you’re not just reading the story; you have to make the choices yourself, so you have to think, ‘What would I do in that situation?’”
Shepherd’s creative vision has curated a book that takes a reader’s immersion into the storyline to the next level. While she is currently on tour for All This and More, she shared that she is also currently writing her fifth novel, which will be published by HarperCollins.
“I feel so lucky to be working with HarperCollins. Often, writers don’t stay with a publisher for long, but everything clicks with HarperCollins, and we all trust each other,” the author says.
Shepherd’s ability to captivate an audience through powerful storytelling makes her an author to watch (and read). Congratulations, Shepherd, on your outstanding achievements. I can’t wait to read what you write next.
by
Photography
Delbert Vega
A Moment in Time
British artist Peregrine Heathcote shares his journey as a painter and talks about his upcoming show at Bonner David Galleries.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Peregrine Heathcote’s vibrant paintings depict the luxurious, alluring lifestyle of the past, instilling a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the vintage aesthetic. Heathcote has honed his artistic skills and found success in galleries worldwide.
The support of his mother and art teachers was instrumental in Heathcote’s success. “I had everything lined up to become an artist, and that’s why I do what I do. I have been painting all my life, and I hope to continue to do so forever,” he says.
The artist studied in Florence for three years under Charles Cecil to learn traditional painting techniques. Utilizing the tools and techniques he learned at school, Heathcote left Florence as a portrait painter.
“I painted lots of interesting people, from captains of industries, celebrities and everyday people,” Heathcote says. “It’s fascinating how people want to be portrayed to look their best and showcase their accomplishments.”
After gaining recognition from his appearance on BBC television painting a celebrity, he was offered a show at a major West End art gallery in London.
“That was the start of it. I was given the show but didn’t have any paintings to put in it,” Heathcote remembers. “So, I went to the library and brainstormed the best process to assemble some pieces. I thought about my upbringing and relatives; one was a pilot, and one was into classic cars. I put those two ideas together and came up with the concept of capturing the essence of vintage travels.”
Heathcote’s elegant vintage travel pieces transport the beholder through time, perfectly capturing the ethos of luxuries of the past. After completing these pieces, a spark of inspiration and excitement consumed him, and he began focusing on a narrative painting that brought the luxury lifestyle and
travel back to the present. Using a bright color palette, the artist’s paintings showcase a technicolor world, further integrating the retro glamor of the past into the present.
Since his first gallery show, Heathcote has had many gallery openings around the globe, taking his work to an audience inspired by yesterday’s luxuries. “I hope that when people look at a picture or feel inclined to buy one, they get a constant source of joy and inspiration,” he says.
Heathcote is preparing for a show at Bonner David Galleries in Scottsdale, which will open in December. He has worked with the gallery many times. “I love Christi Manuelito– Owner of Bonner David Galleries. I think she is amazing and talented. Bonner David Galleries is a pillar of the art market in Scottsdale, and now in New York, I love working with them,” he says.
For information about Heathcote’s upcoming show at Bonner David Galleries, please visit bonnerdavid.com.
Cheese Please
Master the art of charcuterie.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Nothing draws you to the food table at a party quite like a beautifully prepared charcuterie board. The vibrancy of the ripe fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, and cheeses paints a beautiful picture. It’s art in an unexpected form. It’s easy to get lost in the intricacy of each board, asking yourself, how did they do it?
Charcuterie is a delicacy. Correctly placing each item on the board in a pleasing way and ensuring each food is not affected by the other takes time and attention to detail.
However, the time and effort put into these boards is well worth it.
“It’s an ephemeral art form closely related to culinary arts and, perhaps, events also,” Masha Welker, founder of Xoxo Charcuterie in Scottsdale, says. “It might not be art to all, but it is to us and judging from the testimonies of our clients, it is to them as well.
“There is an undeniable emphasis on aesthetics and a special focus on the experience,” she continues. “A good cheese board
will take you on a journey. It will begin with the eyes, as all eating does, entering the mind in the form of wonder, sparking curiosity and ultimately culminating on the palate. At its close, the experience should leave a lingering impression, like a mixture of delight and satiation. I think there is art in that.”
So, how do we transform our boards from looking like store-bought cheese platters into beautifully assembled, Instagram-worthy works of art? I asked Welker for some advice.
TIP ONE: THE BASE
“I suggest getting all the cheese on the board first, as it is the central element. After that, add the ramekins that hold jams and honey, followed by larger fruit like grapes.”
TIP TWO: PLACEMENT
“Do not place crackers or bread next to anything moist on a board. Serve the crackers and bread on the side in a separate vessel. Nothing is worse than soggy bread and crumbs on a board.”
TIP THREE: ASSEMBLY
“Choose beautiful ingredients for your boards. Beautiful produce will do most of the work for you. Allow the structure to be loose; let the ingredients flow and intermingle.”
TIP FOUR: GARNISHES
“Remember the garnish. Sprigs of mint, sage, thyme and rosemary make all the difference aesthetically while creating an irresistible aroma that cuts through the pungent smells of cheeses and salamis with some much-needed herbaceous freshness.”
Following these steps should help you achieve a well-crafted, delicious charcuterie board that will be the talk of the party. There really is no right or wrong way to construct a cheese and charcuterie board,” Welker says. “That’s part of the fun.”
Photo courtesy of Xoxo Charcuterie
Photo courtesy of Xoxo
It’s All About The DETAILS
A home that showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and design by Jeni Robison and Morganne Underwood of Dettaglio Interior Design.
By Nakayla Shakespeare | Photography by Michael Duerinckx with Inckx Photography
In Fulton Lakes lies a home that takes attention to detail and sophistication to the next level. Every facet of this house was conceptualized, constructed and completed with the owner’s desires and needs in mind. The result is a strikingly beautiful and unique 11,997-square-foot estate that is a testament to transitionally elegant design executed at the highest caliber.
The home was designed by Glen Zilly with Lifeform Design and built by Forte Homes. Jeni Robison, owner and founder of Dettaglio Interior Design, spearheaded the interiors. “The clients wanted a home with ample space to host family gatherings and events,” Robison says.
With six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a game room, movie theater, library and two full bars, entertaining guests is a breeze.
Each room in the house showcases Robison’s ability to meld her design style with the client’s wants and preferences, creating a glamorous home that makes a statement around every corner.
Walking through the glass and wood-arched doorway, you are immediately drawn to the custom-made chandelier at the center of the entry. The chandelier illuminates the hexagonal floor made of Bardiglio, Carrera and Thassos marble. This entryway presents a strong sense of arrival and sets the stage for the rest of the home’s grandeur.
“All the custom-made pieces really add to the home’s uniqueness, “ Robison says. “It took time because we were creating the pieces rather than just buying them, and that’s part of what makes this home so special.”
BUILDER Forte Homes. ARCHITECT Glen Zilly with Lifeform Design. MILLWORK Doorworks.
CABINETRY Rysso Peters. ART BY THE BAR (abstract larger of the two in image): Hilario Gutierrez through Costello Gallery. ART AT THE BAR (subtle letter C ): Leila. ART IN THE DINING ROOM Leila.
The grand dining room draws you into the home. A variation of patterns dance with one another tastefully, resulting in a visually exciting and fulfilling experience. The long dining table adorned with antique mercury glass containers can comfortably seat 12, with two chairs placed on either end—reserved for the host and hostess. The main dining table rests on an exquisite, handcrafted rug.
The right wall houses a beautiful wine room with custom wood doors and stained glass and allows guests to easily access international wine delicacies during dinner parties and gatherings.
When you need a minute to unwind, the library is the perfect place to sit, relax and bask in Robison’s design finesse. The curved coffers and crown molding on the ceiling frame two bespoke chandeliers. Stunning blue-gray built-in wood shelving houses the client’s photos, books and decor. A day bed in front of the window offers a tranquil escape into a good read or contemplation.
“One thing I love about this space is even if you want to get away and be a little quieter, it’s still inviting to everybody, which is really nice,” Robison points out.
The heart of this home is its show-stopping kitchen, which has two islands that occupy the space and anchor its flow.
“The islands were a challenge because the client wanted a waterfall-end detail but also wanted storage,” Robison explains. “We were able to embed storage within the waterfall island.”
Four designer pendant lights hang from richly stained Alder tongue-and-groove ceilings. The cabinetry is accented with a gray-blue, white and bronze color palette, which provides dimension while also adding warmth to the room (a color combination seen throughout the home). An artisan-crafted Ravena tile backsplash ties the space together.
There is also a butler’s kitchen with a white and blue color palette that offers extra storage and workspace. “This room was super important to the client so she could host catering staff to help with her events and parties,” Morganne Underwood, co-owner and lead designer at Dettaglio Interior Design, says.
One of the main entertainment hubs is the living room. Towering tongue-and-groove ceilings open the space. The cool-tone color palette of grays and blues maintains elegance and consistency with the rest of the home, while the Alder squares in the ceiling warm the room, creating that refined yet welcoming balance.
The bedroom design creates intimacy and a gentler aesthetic. Whites, blues and neutral tones allow for a serene and relaxing setting. Large floral patterns were molded on the ceiling for a feminine touch. The bathroom echoes the intimacy of the bedroom. Two wood vanities across from each other create a clear path to the large soaking tub and marble fireplace, adding dimension to the clean, white walls and floors.
This opulent home would only be complete with an equally opulent closet. The two-story closet prioritizes storage without sacrificing design. The team inventoried the client’s wardrobe while also allocating room for new pieces to be purchased in the future to ensure ample space. Lush carpeting, a sparkling chandelier and a white marble island were chosen to embellish the space and contribute to the elegant character of the home.
Robison and her team spared no details when designing this residence. Every aspect of the home was thoughtfully planned and executed, turning the client’s biggest dreams and visions into a reality—their forever home.
Kristy Siefkin, Keynote Speaker, Executive communications, and Media Coach. Recently
shared her journey with her hair.
“In today’s world, the pressure to look perfect is immense, whether you’re in front of a camera or not. Social media amplifies unrealistic beauty standards, making many women feel inadequate and impacting their mental health. But those ideals are far from reality. While society’s expectations remain high, I applaud women who share their real selves—stretch marks, hair loss, and all.
That’s why I’m sharing my own story. Confidence is often linked to appearance, but perfection shouldn’t be the goal. We deserve to feel empowered to look and feel our best.
Five years ago, I noticed my hair thinning. My first doctor dismissed my concerns, leaving me discouraged. It wasn’t until I found NHLMA that I felt truly heard. Their scientific, personalized approach, including a microscopic follicle analysis, revealed my hair was thinner, not falling out. Understanding the real cause and having a tailored plan gave me hope to restore some fullness. Confidence is attainable, and there are resources to help.”
At NHLMA we believe that hair loss deserves more than a solution—it calls for a transformation.
Our premium hair restoration treatments combine cutting-edge science with indulgent luxury, specially formulated to revitalize your scalp, fortify thinning strands, and stimulate new growth. Infused with the finest ingredients, from rare botanicals to clinically proven nutrients, our products deliver a sensory experience while targeting the root causes of hair loss.
Founder, Carly Klein
Kristy Siefkin
Tim McBride recognizes five Phoenix Change Agents for their incredible work and contributions to the community.
By ICONIC LIFE
Change Better
For The
Tim McBride, founder of Change Agents for Phoenix, believes that residential real estate can go beyond transactions and become a catalyst for inspiration in our community. As one of Arizona’s top one percent of real estate agents, he was listed in the prestigious Scottsdale Association of Realtors’ Forty Under Forty list in 2022 and was honored with the Housing Wire’s 2022 Rising Star award.
Service is McBride’s true passion. In 2018, he founded Homes for Good, a grassroots fundraising movement that leverages real estate to connect people with causes they can support. From that place, Change Agents for Phoenix was born to recognize real estate professionals with a heart for giving back.
Here are five exceptional change agents being recognized in 2024.
Chris Lundberg
Chris Lundberg is a dedicated realtor passionate about helping clients find their dream homes in Gilbert, Arizona and the surrounding area. With years of experience fixing and flipping houses, Lundberg has a keen eye for detail. He has consistently ranked in the top one percent of all realtors valley-wide for transactions and sales for eight years, a testament to his dedication and hard work.
In addition to his work as a realtor, Lundberg also built a vast network of contractor connections, which he leverages to help his clients with necessary repairs or renovations. His partnership with his wife Lexi and her design team at Lexi Grace Design, a top interior design firm in the area, further provides added value to clients.
Outside of work, Lundberg is a proud soccer dad, who can be found attending his kids’ games and coaching his kids’ middle school co-ed team. He is passionate about giving back to the community. He supports and works with 1Mission, a non-profit community development organization that provides opportunities for families to earn homes by serving their community.
Lundberg leads the team in Rocky Point that builds homes for the families that have earned them.
Frank Aazami
As a distinguished entrepreneur, Frank Aazami has established himself as a master of marketing, real estate and business development. Named one of the top 100 Sotheby’s agents in the nation, Aazami has an unmatched track record of planning, negotiating and growing investments; he also ranks in the top .0165% of agents nationally across all brokerages.
Aazami’s knowledge and drive have led his team to exceptional success, earning the distinction of being the number one large team in Arizona for Russ Lyon/Sotheby’s International Realty by sales volume and the #30 large teams in the nation.
His commitment to excellence extends to providing a customized ‘concierge’ service from the beginning stages of a transaction through closing and beyond. He recognizes that buying or selling luxury properties is a significant decision, and he approaches every transaction with care, precision and a deep understanding of his clients’ needs.
Aazami knows that to whom much has been given, much is expected. That translates into supporting his clients through the many charities they are involved in. He gives time and treasures to multiple organizations across the valley, including the Phoenix Heart Ball, a gala that the American Heart Association puts on in the Greater Phoenix Division to drive change, fund science and raise awareness for devastating heart-related health issues.
Logan Hall
Logan Hall has been a business-minded entrepreneur since the third grade when he founded his first successful business mowing lawns in the Phoenix summers. His insatiable drive for success has made him among the top one percent of all agents working with Century 21 Northwest. A mastermind for marketing, Hall has consistently grown his brand through social media, podcasts and multiple public speaking engagements.
Hall’s true calling lies with philanthropy and has inspired him to be very involved with organizations such as Make-A-Wish, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Salvation Army, West Valley Mavericks and various other charitable organizations. Hall was also the past president of his local church and enjoys giving back to many high schools throughout the Phoenix area.
Hall is a dedicated father and loving husband to his supportive wife, Hayley. They just wrote and published their first children’s book, “Buddy the Goat-Makes A Friend and Teaches How to Share,” where $1 of every book sold goes to Make-A-Wish Arizona and Phoenix Children’s.
Brian North
Relentless, dynamic and energetic are just a few words to describe Brian North, the founder and visionary for North&Co., Real Estate by Trade. North built his company around the vision and scalable design founded on five core values: innovation, specialization, authenticity, commitment and teamwork. These five values drive business decisions and ignite daily growth in people and production.
Over the last decade, the Metro-Phoenix marketplace experienced some of the country’s most vibrant and tumultuous market shifts. In that time, North became a student of the market and its ever-changing conditions to find better ways to engage with the consumer, secure a clientele-based business and refine how real estate is transacted. North is also driven by personal pursuits to merge old-school with new-school tactics and reinvent new business models.
North finds passion and purpose in connecting with people and making a difference in the community.
Ashley Dabibi
Ashley Dabibi is a dedicated realtor who combines her passion for real estate with her commitment to supporting those struggling with Alzheimer’s. After losing her father to Alzheimer’s in January 2023, she became deeply involved with the Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter to raise awareness and fight for families facing this devastating disease. There are 151,500 Arizonans over the age of 65 living with Alzheimer’s and 292,000 unpaid caregivers providing more than 483 million hours of care to those struggling with this disease.
Professionally, Dabibi is known for her integrity, market expertise and genuine empathy. Whether helping families find their dream homes or advocating for Alzheimer’s awareness, Dabibi is driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
RED ROCKS in the RELAX
America’s first landscape hotel, Ambiente, promotes sustainability while providing a super-luxe stay.
By Renee Dee
Phototography
by Jeff Zaruba
by
Phototography
Jeff Zaruba
Three years ago, I recorded a podcast with Jennifer May, one of two sister bosses and co-founder of a Sedona family-owned and operated company, Ambiente, which means environment in Italian and Spanish. On that podcast, she shared with me the “ah ha” moment when she and her sister identified the majesty of the property that would soon become Ambiente and the idea of doing something extraordinary with deep respect for the environment.
The sisters were enamored with organic, modern architecture that respects the land’s undulations, and they set out to develop a sustainable Sedona escape that would embody everything they deeply cared about. Anticipating that the resort would become a worldwide sensation, the sisters pursued development to preserve the land’s natural beauty. Ambiente opened to international news coverage and hard-to-secure reservations.
As the country’s first landscape hotel, the resort has quickly become one of the Southwest’s premier adult-only destinations. An idyllic haven nestled amidst awe-inspiring red rock formations and desert and forest topography, Sedona offers a sublime blend of natural beauty and tranquility while boasting seasonal temperatures 15 to 20 degrees cooler than surrounding metropolises, guaranteeing a quintessential oasis for inspired summer getaways.
Today, my availability and a reservation opening merged, and I was off to Ambiente with a friend.
With its unparalleled guest room experience, the resort offers contemporary, elevated atriums that feature floorto-ceiling bronze-tinted glass with matte-charcoal and rusted metal accents, seamlessly blending into their natural surroundings with sustainable, organic architecture that supports a disconnection from everyday life and a reconnection with nature.
The luxurious accommodations include sleek, elemental interiors and amenities such as a petite kitchen with daily restocked refreshments and bespoke design touches, including live-edge wood furnishings, large, dual-head rain showers, oversized soaking tubs, cozy sectionals with plush throw blankets and platform beds draped in silky sheets and down bedding.
Each atrium includes a private rooftop deck with a daybed and fire pit, perfect for sunbathing, yoga or stargazing alfresco. The deck offers 360-degree views of the majestic red rocks and the theater of the night sky with infinite stars.
When we arrived, we checked our car with the valet and hopped on the resort golf cart, which took us to our accommodations. The property has 40 above-ground, container-like spaces, so we were escorted to ours and given a tour of the luxe space.
Ambiente’s cube-shaped guest atriums appear to be floating above the high-desert floor. With its modern design, the hotel embodies elegant minimalism and luxurious accommodation.
The Velvet Spa is located inside the main lobby building. It is an intimate, three-room spa with an ethos rooted in blending ancient wellness practices with innovative technologies. Specializing in treatments that integrate locally sourced ingredients embodying the region’s transformative healing properties, Velvet offers a range of restorative rituals, including an array of services for couples who wish to enjoy their relaxation time together.
At the center of the property is the hotel’s full-service signature restaurant, Forty1. It serves seasonally rotating breakfast and dinner menus and showcases a steadfast commitment to embracing the Verde Valley’s abundance of resources through Modern American cuisine. Right outside Forty1, guests can enjoy the pond-shaped pool and spa, ideal for soaking up the Sedona sunshine with a cocktail in hand.
That evening, we dined at Forty1, enjoyed elevated service and had a three-course dinner that included a visit from Executive Chef David Duncan. We savored perfectly prepared scallops and a medium-rare beef filet.
TOP:
Phototography by Kyle RM Johnson. BOTTOM: Photography by Jenelle Bonifield.
Later that evening, we put on our comfy clothes, grabbed a bottle of wine and ascended to the roof to experience a night of stargazing. We saw the Milky Way, shooting stars, satellites and planets identified through our Night Sky app. It was tranquil on the roof, making for a magical evening.
It is important to note that guests are given a texting number for any request; we used it multiple times to order wine, request help with our fire pit, and, yes, assist with the entrance to our room. Surely, others have done it. Remember, when you climb the stairs to the rooftop, your room will lock…keep your key handy.
In the morning, it was time for sunshine, hiking and breakfast at the famous airport restaurant, Mesa Grill. Our ambitions for exercise called us to walk three miles uphill for breakfast, and while Sedona can also be a bit warm in the summer, our egos helped get us to the top.
By noon, the laguna-style pool at Ambiente called us. The in-pool lounge chairs provided relief from the heat. Earlier
that day, we learned that a palm reader would visit us at the pool. When in Sedona, lean into your spiritual side and embrace the energy of the vortex.
We had our palms read poolside, and it was illuminating. Later, we met friends for happy hour at the pool, celebrating the small boutique nature of our resort. That night, we ordered some snacks for our rooftop sky show via text.
By morning, we committed to yoga on the roof before getting on the road to go home. We stopped at Sedona Juice Company and visited one more vortex before heading down the I-17 to Phoenix.
Forty-eight hours of friend time, relaxation and the healing energy of Sedona were just what two busy businesswomen needed. We felt like two sister bosses ourselves.
Cheers to the founders for genuinely doing something special and creating a resort that will leave an impression for a long time.
SERENE
SURROUNDINGS
Sonora West Development breaks ground on a stylish new community.
By Nora Burba Trulsson
Afew years back, Scott Pfeiffer had a problem—a problem that most builders and developers would love to have. The 33 homes in his Solitude development in North Scottsdale sold out quickly, leaving a list of potential buyers clamoring for more. “Solitude was my biggest project to date,” says Pfeiffer, who founded Sonora West Development in 2001, initially as a luxury home builder. “It was a success, even during the Covid years.”
This year, Pfeiffer is breaking ground on Serene, a sister project to Solitude, hoping to fulfill the demand for his homes. Serene is located on a parcel of land just south of the landmark Pinnacle Peak, with views of boulders, desert and Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains. As with Solitude, Pfeiffer is partnering again with SWABACK Architects + Planners and interior designers from Est Est Interior Design to create Serene’s modern desert look.
Pfeiffer’s launch of another exclusive enclave should come as no surprise. He points out that his company has done some $2 billion in work since its inception, building several hundred homes and luxe multi-family projects. According to Pfeiffer, the Serene design/build team understands what buyers are looking for and maintains meticulous attention to detail while aiming for a fast build cycle.
“Serene’s homes are luxurious and semi-custom but with a smaller footprint,” Pfeiffer says, whose background includes business and construction. “It’s all about cutting-edge design.” With 21 lots featuring homes ranging from 2,800 to 3,700 square feet in a gated setting, he sees Serene having appeal as a lockand-leave property, perhaps attracting those
who want a seasonal home in the Arizona desert. “Not everyone wants an acre lot with a big house on the golf course,” he remarks.
Serene offers four distinct floor plans for buyers to choose from, carefully plotted on each lot to maximize the views. “The idea is contemporary desert architecture with clean lines and masses, as well as horizontal rooflines,” says Michael Wetzel, design principal on the project and a partner at Scottsdale-based SWABACK Architects + Planners. “We will be using natural stone, tile, metals and woods, as well as stucco masses in the homes.”
The architect points out that spine walls, a central or elongated structural wall that acts as a primary support system and adds to the aesthetic, will traverse the house from the entry through the living spaces and out to a back terrace, creating an indoor-outdoor flow. The design features include open floor plans, pocketing window walls and finished landscaped outdoor spaces. Unique options include see-through fireplaces, separate dining rooms, outdoor kitchens and pools on certain lots.
“From the gated entry and through each house, we’re trying to draw the homeowners in and create a consistent design theme throughout,” Wetzel notes.
Est Est Interior Design’s interiors, he says, will reflect the architecture and allow some customization for each buyer. Additional interior amenities include gourmet kitchens, quartz countertops, Sub-Zero Wolf appliances, custom cabinetry and walk-in closets.
“Serene is my fourth boutique development,” Pfeiffer says. “There will be a fifth and a sixth one, too. With our custom home building background, we give buyers more quality than a production home builder.”
Serene’s two model homes are expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Mike Domer of Launch powered by Compass is a partner in the project and handling sales. Home prices start at $2.5 million.
With Solitude sold out for more than two years and leaving a long waitlist of interested buyers, Pfeiffer might repeat his “problem” with Serene—a quick sellout, with buyers clamoring for more.
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SMALL SPACE,
GRAND GESTURE
Architect C.P. Drewett and interior designer Claire Ownby work their magic in Paradise Valley.
By Nora Burba Trulsson
Photography by Dino Tonn
Scottsdale-based architect C.P. Drewett and interior designer Claire Ownby are frequent collaborators on high-end residential projects. Known for their spare and minimalist approach to design, Ownby and Drewett work primarily within estate-sized properties, where height restrictions seem obsolete and square footage is no object.
But, when long-time clients wanted to downsize to a lock-and-leave seasonal home with a relatively modest
ARCHITECTURE Drewett Works
BUILDER BedBrock Developers
INTERIOR DESIGNER Ownby Design
footprint, both design professionals rose to the occasion and created a jewel box, a grand gesture in a small space.
The clients, a couple with grown children, found a site within a high-density, single-family home neighborhood in Paradise Valley, a luxe community nestled north of the ICONIC landmark Camelback Mountain.
“This is a rare subdivision within this town, where most lots are one or two acres,” explains Drewett. “Their lot is probably less than a quarter of an acre, and the best views toward the mountain are also toward the street. It became a puzzle to give them views and privacy.” Giving the clients the architectural lines and drama Drewett has become known for was also a challenge within the tight lot.
For Ownby, the key to the home’s success was simplicity— keeping the furnishings and accessories to a minimum to create a serene, spacious look. “The clients were realistic about what they would be getting in this square footage,” she says. “The main room sizes are gracious, but we had to be creative with other spaces, like bathrooms and the laundry room.”
To capture the views and provide privacy, Drewett drew up a 3,800-square-foot, three-bedroom plan that was “front-loaded,” meaning the kitchen, bar and living areas were at the front of the house with unobstructed views of Camelback, all opening to a large patio that wraps around to the home’s entry. “For privacy, we created a taller wall around the house that’s not your typical site wall,” Drewett explains. “It’s an extension of the architecture, with lighting and offset strips of glass.”
Tone-on-tone limestone and plaster clad walls are contrasted by black metal details. Hemlock ceilings and overhangs add warmth, while window walls open to connect indoors to out. Deep overhangs shelter part of the patio and mark the entry, where a cutout in the overhang neatly frames the sky.
Inside, Ownby played off the pale walls and oak flooring with an ivory and charcoal palette warmed by touches of cognac leather. “We went for a warm, cohesive use of materials for this home,” Ownby says. “The owners are informal, and they wanted a livable place.”
A charcoal-colored sectional wraps around a custom leather and metal coffee table in the living room, creating an inviting gathering spot by the fireplace and TV. In the kitchen, matte charcoal cabinetry forms a graphic band against the ivory walls and light-colored quartzite countertops. Ownby framed the ivory-hued bed for the primary suite with a textured, deeply colored wall covering and
grounded the space with a dark area rug, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy.
Drewett and Ownby added numerous details to the home to give it richness. The limestone-clad fireplace features a recessed vertical black channel in the living room. Outdoors, a floating black fireplace separates the entry from the patio’s seating area, warming both spaces. The two designers worked closely on the interior doors, making those in the kitchen that lead to the bedrooms virtually disappear and creating what Ownby calls “layflat doors” for the primary suite—double doors that open and lay flat within shallow drywall niches creating an unobstructed view.
The owners went without a few things in the house. For one, there is no formal dining area. “They never used their dining room at their old house,” Ownby notes. Instead, the designers created an oak peninsula table that cantilevers off the kitchen island and can comfortably seat six. Additional dining (and living) space can be found on the patio. Also, the primary bath has no soaking tub. “It’s a long, narrow space,” says Ownby, “but we managed to get a seated vanity and two sinks in there, plus a large walk-in shower.”
The result is a house that is easy to manage and lives big inside and out. “As the saying goes, we managed to get five pounds into a three-pound bag here,” Drewett quips. “Getting everything to fit challenged everyone to be better. Tighter and smaller requires more creativity. For me, this home is a high point in design.”
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SEP 9, TUE PARIS (LE HAVRE), FRANCE
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Celebrating OUTDOOR LIVING
Introducing the best of the best for outdoor living.
By ICONIC LIFE
Outdoor living is more popular than ever before and creating an outdoor oasis takes time, preparation and a passion for the business. These leading businesses have worked hard to provide Arizona with beautiful, award-winning landscapes that make the valley more than just a desert. Meet the visionary leaders of the outdoors who transform your backyard space into a paradise.
CELEBRATING OUTDOOR LIVING
DESERT FOOTHILLS LANDSCAPE
In 1990, Desert Foothills Landscape’s corporate office and design center were founded in Cave Creek, AZ. Initially focused on maintenance, their services have grown to include maintenance, design, architecture, installation, hardscape, softscape, irrigation systems, lighting systems, pool design, pool installation and pool maintenance.
When working on a project, Desert Foothills Landscape avoids delays and frustrations by being a well-supplied, one-stop-shop their clients can depend on. They also maintain two private nurseries for the exclusive use of their design clients!
From its modest origins, Desert Foothills Landscape has blossomed into one of the largest landscape and maintenance companies in the valley, both in terms of clients and employees. Their clientele primarily consists of upscale residential clients, and they are the preferred partner for many of the area’s elite custom home builders, a testament to their reliability and success.
Desert Foothills Landscape thrives on challenge and is renowned for its ability to bring almost any concept to life. Whether it’s a two-tiered, glass-front, 13,000-gallon koi pond or the illusion of fire rising out of a pool, they excel at turning dreams into reality. Their final products not only meet but exceed their client’s visions, a testament to their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Mastering The Art of Desert Design Since 1990 480.488.0128 • dflaz.com
CELEBRATING OUTDOOR LIVING
MODERN SHADE
Modern Shade is a custom shading company of leading experts in the valley. They work directly with builders, architects, designers and integrators on projects from conception to completion. With a strict focus on shading, Modern Shade provides unparalleled services to their trade partners ensuring the finest quality for their clients.
This luxury shading business was founded in 2016 by Eric Auffant and Joshua Blakeley. It was a dream that originated in a garage, where all successful companies do. Their hard work, passion for the brand and dedication allowed Modern Shade to flourish to the caliber it is today; an expansive showroom in Scottsdale with a plethora of window treatment options available and a staff of 20 employees with more than 100 years of combined shading experience.
Specializing in motorized and manual shading options for interior and exterior spaces, Modern Shade carries top quality brands such as Lutron, Crestron, Somfy, Hartmann & Forbes, Hunter Douglas, Progressive Screens and Renson Pergolas. The partnership between Modern Shade and these acclaimed brands is a testament to the unwavering commitment to quality.
Modern Shade goes above and beyond to exceed clients’ expectations, working closely with architects, designers and builders to ensure window treatment selection is effortless and straightforward.
It’s a shady business, but someone’s gotta do it.
480.665.9108 • www.modernshade.net
CELEBRATING OUTDOOR LIVING
SHEARON DESIGN COLLECTIVE
Shearon Design Collective is not just a landscape design firm but a unique entity that crafts exemplary outdoor spaces with a white-glove concierge service. Their unwavering commitment to Arizona’s landscape realities and deep respect for the desert’s potential set them apart. They bring clients’ dreams to life while staying rooted in the feasibility of construction. Their designs don’t just remain on paper; they come to life as authentic expressions of the land and the client’s aspirations.
The firm was spearheaded by visionary Phil Shearon, a landscape architect with a lifelong connection to construction sites and the multi-generational legacy of his family’s homebuilding company. His personal touch and lifelong familiarity with the industry make him extremely passionate about involvement in the entire process of construction, ensuring that each client feels valued and their vision is brought to life.
“Our firm, as the landscape designer, is just as critical as a part of the design team as the architect and the interior designer,” Shearon says. “Make sure that every construction project includes a landscape design firm to ensure your outdoor living spaces, pools and retreat areas have just as much attention and detail as the interior of the home. Don’t leave the outdoor design until the end. The best projects we’ve been a part of are the ones where we are brought in at the very beginning of the project, alongside the architect and interior designer.”
Inspired by the elements of nature and the home’s architectural style, Shearon Design Collective is able to beautifully craft outdoor havens that are visually stunning, give the client everything they want, and more.
See ing
A collaboration between esteemed fashion designer Zang Toi and ICONIC LIFE photographed at the ICONIC Design Awards award-winning home, Part and Counterpart.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Catching the attention of Anna Wintour with his first collection years ago, fashion designer Zang Toi immediately became the haute designer to watch. Since then, he has designed countless showstopping pieces and ensembles, making himself a household name. Toi graciously lent us his Fall 2024 Haute Couture collection for this ICONIC collaboration. The result? Well, you’ll have to flip through to find out.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Zang Toi. PHOTOGRAPHER: Mark Sacro. LIGHTING: Mark Sacro. HAIR & MAKEUP: Melissa Evans, Ford Robert Black. MODEL: Breck, Ford Robert Black. ICONIC TEAM: Renee Dee, Nakayla Shakespeare. LOCATION: Part and Counterpart, Architecture: Drewett Works, Interior Design: Ownby Design, Builder: BedBrock Development. WARDROBE: Zang Toi.
THE HOUSE
Part and Counterpart is the recipient of multiple ICONIC Design Awards. Drewett Works served as the architect, Ownby Design as the interior designer and BedBrock Developers as the builder. This home represents the best in innovation and modern design.
Part and Counterpart is located in Cameldale Estates in Paradise Valley, Ariz., with Camelback Mountain to the west and the Four Peaks mountain range to the east. The residence is one of 11 custom contemporary homes in the community—all designed and built by the professionals mentioned.
THE CONCEPT
The primary vision for this photoshoot was a high-fashion editorial. We wanted to create a narrative surrounding Toi’s beautiful craftsmanship and work, taking runway pieces and placing them in a real-life setting. What better place to do that than the spectacular Part and Counterpart residence? The home’s architectural and interior design further elevated our vision of luxury and refinement.
All items except fur stole are available for special order at Saks Fifth Avenue nationwide.
GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN
Scarlet hand-beaded blossom strapless mini dress, Scarlet tulle stole handembroidered with sequin & crystal, Shocking Pink House of Toi tights, Scarlet House of Toi silk stiletto.
LA ROUGE
Black silk velvet front-slit gown with hand-beaded scarlet medallion lace epaulets & draped beads, Scarlet House of Toi stiletto.
FOXY
Black silk velvet strapless gown with dramatic back-panel, Scarlet hand-embroidered crystal House of Toi necklace, Scarlet hand-embroidered crystal cross earring, Scarlet Saga Royal Fox stole, Black House of Toi silk stiletto.
ALL THAT GLITTERS
Black French metallic point d’esprit lace oversize blouse with pussy bow, Scarlet hand-beaded sequin & crystal diva skirt, Scarlet House of Toi silk stiletto.
DOUBLE TAKE
Black silk velvet strapless gown with dramatic back-panel, Scarlet hand-embroidered crystal House of Toi necklace, Scarlet hand-embroidered crystal cross earring, Scarlet Saga Royal Fox stole, Black House of Toi silk stiletto.
POCKET FULL OF POSIES
Scarlet stretch crepe sexy draped back gown caught with silk roses, Scarlet hand-embroidered crystal cross earrings, Scarlet House of Toi silk stiletto.
WALK THE LINE
Scarlet hand-loomed cashmere/ silk/wool turtleneck hand-embroidered with sequins & crystals, Scarlet tulle ball skirt with attached roses & blossoms mini skirt, Scarlet House of Toi silk stiletto.
The HOST MOST Who Does The
The renowned architect designs homes… and lifestyles.
By Fran Miller | Photography by Tyler Ruetschle with Enriched Media
Upon completing each home design, architect Mark Candelaria “christens the kitchen” by throwing a dinner party for his client.
The renowned principal of Arizona-based Candelaria Design, whose stunning abodes can be found throughout the country, serves as host, cook and entertainer. He wheels in his wagon of utensils, place settings, decor and menu ingredients to create evenings to remember and events that he hopes his clients will replicate in their new homes.
“There is nothing like a great dinner party to bring people together,” says Candelaria, whose bon vivant enthusiasm is palpable. When designing a house, he and his team create not just floor plans but also a life plan. “We design for a lifestyle our clients want to lead, and our project-ending dinner parties are intended to inspire and showcase to the client how their new space can be fully enjoyed.”
The “cooking thing” (as he calls it) is, and always has been, part of any Candelaria gig. The architect was a young man when he realized the power of a shared meal and incorporated the ritual throughout his professional career. His company’s Scottsdale office features a fully operational gourmet kitchen. “It’s better to connect the entire team,” he explains. “Cooking builds bonds. It’s fun and brings
everyone to an equal level. It’s a key ingredient to the Candelaria experience.”
And that experience extends beyond his architectural projects. The designer and his wife, Isabel, are equally recognized for their annual Candelaria Design Tours, leading full immersion trips to Italy, France, Spain, Oaxaca, Santa Fe and Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The intention? Explore other ways of life and inspire tour participants to bring enjoyed practices into their homes.
They’ve been conducting the tours for 25 years, incorporating culture, history, architecture and cuisine. “The most important moment on each trip is the cooking class,” says Candelaria, who credits his director of business operations and partner, Evelyn Jung, and his daughter, media director Tiffany Candelaria, for their tour planning expertise. “Four hours of cooking and four hours of eating. Our travelers always bond during this part of every tour.”
Candelaria’s client and friend, Phyllis Lerner, has participated in several of these trips. An Umbrian excursion inspired her Candelaria-designed, Italian-esque Arizona estate. “Every event with Mark is about fabulous food and wonderful, interesting people,” Lerner remarks. “There is nothing this man doesn’t do well. He is an incredible architect. He cooks, sings, plays the piano, paints and is charitable. Mark is the one true renaissance man I have ever met.”
His eclecticism is never more apparent than when he’s hosting one of his now ICONIC dinner parties—whether it’s on a European tour, within a client’s home, in his own house, or the office. The architect pulls out all the stops with the help of Janice Rantanen, his director of lasting impressions, who curates the themes and tablescapes. He begins by selecting one of the more than 20 different sets of plates and china within his collection, from which Rantanen will choose the matching decor. He likes to start the party with a crafted cocktail aperitif. A classic Old Fashioned is a favorite, for which he makes his own smoked simple syrup.
Guests are typically offered appetizers of charcuterie and cheeses before sitting down for the four-or-five-course meal, which might include any number of dishes, and the menus are available on his company website. Beef Bourguignon, Coquilles Saint Jacques, Southwest Beef Wellington, and Classic Halibut Puttanesca are just some of the delicious offerings in his arsenal.
A particular guest favorite and a Candelaria marquee item is his Spanish Basque Paella, which is so popular
and associated with his brand that charitable donation requests pour in annually. When able, he responds with a 20-inch masterpiece of shrimp, chorizo, clams, mussels and halibut. Often an event’s prized live auction offering, the dish has been known to fetch $8,000 per pan. He donated 10 in the past year, helping to raise $80,000 for charity.
When finished in the kitchen, Candelaria ditches the stovetop in favor of the piano bench. True to his brand, the architect has a grand piano in his office. He’s a fan of the American standards songbook and the Billy Joel catalog of hits and is well-versed in current pop tunes. He’s happy to take requests as dessert is served. His saffron-cardamom crème brûlée is nearly legendary, and everyone loves his orange olive oil and espresso salttopped vanilla ice cream. At night’s end, Rantanen hands each guest a menu printout to help spark inspiration.
“People are often intimidated by throwing a dinner party,” Candelaria says. “But my goal is to reveal that it’s really not so difficult. It’s all about good food and good company. Anyone can do it.”
Happy Place My
By Renee Dee
Given the beauty of California, you’d expect the stretch of the Los Angeles coast to boast a parade of luxury resorts. Instead, there are just a few, and one grand dame rules the Palos Verdes Peninsula— Terranea Resort.
Having won many awards like the Forbes Four-Star Award, AAA Four Diamond Award, Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Award, and more, the resort is as approachable, and the staff is as friendly as possible. Perhaps the influence of the property’s new president, who is all things happy in one person, has set an example for everyone.
How did this happy place come to be? Terranea Resort opened in June 2009, and since then, I’ve had my eyes on this slice of heaven for a trip. As luck would have it, I recently indulged in a rare vacation with a girlfriend to see what I’ve been hearing great things about myself.
The Mediterranean-inspired resort has a Spanish Colonial vibe and panoramic ocean views. Here, the blue water meets the blue skies, and the distant view of Catalina beckoned me. Yet, why would I want to leave such a complete resort experience?
The 102-acre property is by no means small. Its positioning on the bluff is sprawling, and there is so much to do on the property, including visiting its world-class spa and enjoying the award-winning, nine-hole, par 3-links golf course with ocean views.
Long before Terranea’s debut, the pristine setting on the Palos Verdes Peninsula was a backdrop to a rich heritage and a diverse natural habitat. Once a part of the Channel Islands, the peninsula shifted slowly over millions of years and fused to the mainland coast of California. As a result, it is now home to a unique collection of rocks and plant species.
Before Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer, discovered the peninsula in 1542, the Indigenous Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe lived in prosperity there as seafarers, traders and fishermen.
Years passed as stewardship slipped from Spanish land grants to private ownership until the 1913 purchase of 16,000 acres by a consortium of New York investors led by Frank A. Vanderlip, considered the founding father of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Today, the resort’s biggest suite is named after Vanderlip.
Terranea’s scene-stealing backdrop has attracted Hollywood film crews since the 1950s when Lloyd Bridges starred in the popular TV adventure series Sea Hunt. Since then, Terranea’s dramatic oceanfront setting has been featured in numerous television and feature film productions, from Pirates of the Caribbean to The Beverly Hillbillies
For this week, the scene-stealing backdrop was all mine. I enjoyed a two-bedroom, three-bath villa with ocean views through every door and window. My home base for my trip was much like a home, with a nicely appointed kitchenette, laundry facilities and enviable closet
space. I had a fireplace in my living room and on one of my two balconies overlooking the ocean, perfectly positioned for stargazing.
If I had been willing to depart my luxe villa, I could have joined other guests for one of the monthly stargazing sessions with a high-powered telescope positioned at a fire pit with hot chocolate and s’mores. But alas, I had fire, water and wine at my villa, so I gazed from my balcony.
My awesome location puts me just steps from the spa and fitness center for daily workouts and is close to the coastal trail on the bluff, which takes me to a lighthouse one day and a posh neighborhood the next.
There are so many ways to enjoy Terranea. Starting with the spa, I enjoyed the Crimson Revival, where contrast therapy revitalizes circulation and enlivens the senses. It incorporates detoxifying thermal mud, a massage and sessions in a dry sauna and a Swiss shower. It’s an ultra-pampering, two-hour experience.
I’ve never experienced contrast therapy, which means combining hot and cold. Even my Swiss shower had cold and hot water jetting simultaneously. I followed that treatment with a CBD facial, which was incredibly nurturing for my skin. My aesthetician pointed out that most people don’t know the depth of skin nutrition in CBD, and it’s all the rave right now.
The extensive spa includes everything you’d expect in a top spa, including a dry and steam sauna, a hot therapy pool and a cold
plunge. The styling stations offer good products, and every treatment room provides picturesque views. The upstairs recovery lounge has one of the best views on the property.
Feeling detoxed, invigorated, shiny and smooth from head to toe, I took my happy skin to the spa pool for some much-needed vitamin D. The pool boasts fantastic views, lounge seating with fire pits and service from the resort’s extra healthy spa café, solviva, which highlights wellness with locally grown and procured ingredients for healthy fare that on this day paired well with a fresh, limey skinny margarita.
Dining at Terranea is like being on a luxury cruise ship…in a good way. There are nine dining destinations, each with its own flair. You can enjoy bubbles at sunset on the Veuve Clicquot Terrace, adorably styled in Veuve gold accents. Breakfast is served at catalina kitchen, where you can dine inside or out.
My favorite daytime meal was at Nelson’s, with its spectacular clifftop setting directly above the Pacific Ocean and fire pits and outdoor dining on shaded picnic tables in the sand. You’ll find all the fan favorites here. I ordered the seafood cob with shrimp and lobster both times. Yum.
For a more formal take, mar’sel is Terranea’s signature restaurant, reflecting a modern twist on California cuisine as inventive as its name suggests (Spanish for “sea” and French for “salt”). A seasonal, gourmet menu spotlights local ingredients alongside herbs and
produce grown on property in the mar’sel garden and at Terranea’s main garden adjacent to the resort. There’s good reason to dress up, as the cuisine is elevated, and the wine sommelier is ready to suggest what pairs best with your dinner that night.
It was just announced that mar’sel was awarded Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for its 10th consecutive year for its outstanding wine list of 375 selections and impressive wine service. Given the restaurant’s name, French wine was the selection for the evening to complement the elegant seasonal Californian cuisine with an inventive twist created by Michelin-starred Chef Fabio Ugoletti.
I dined at mar’sel with a friend. With so many wonderful items to choose from, we started with the pesto risotto scallops. They were perfectly prepared and excellent. A satisfying bite, I could have almost stopped there. We split the beet salad, which was so fresh and fabulous and then separately ordered the Dover Sole and the Sea Bass.
After a bottle of wine and a remarkably satisfying dinner, we ordered dessert, which we didn’t need. Still, the lemon delizia, a limoncello-soaked sponge cake with lemon custard and cappuccino gelato,
was a perfect palette cleanser. The attentive service, the incredible patio and the panoramic view made this an exceptional dining experience, which you should not miss. Make a reservation for sure!
We had a similarly delightful dinner with a completely different vibe on another night. Bashi is a modern take on Asian cuisine with a long list of sake options. We opted for the patio again…who can beat this view? The Sizzling Shaking Beef is a local favorite. It comes on a sizzling platter and is perfectly seasoned, juicy and delicious. The sushi is fresh, elevated and inventive. We also had curried veggies that paired great with the beef. This is an excellent stop for a light bite or a serious dinner.
If we weren’t hiking, spa-ing, sunning or dining, we were shopping. That’s what girlfriends do. And with decades of shopping miles trekked, we were impressed by the resort shops at Terranea, so much so that one of us had to check a bag home. Vacation well done once again.
There are plenty of things to do, places to dine and trails to walk on this idyllic coastal trip. Now, I know what everyone has been talking about, and I look forward to sharing, too.
That’s A WRAP
The experts at The Paper Place guide us on gift wrapping.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
Photography by Paul Moore
With the holiday season in full swing, gift-giving is top of mind. Stores are stocked with festive wrapping papers, beautiful ribbons, bow embellishments and essential gift-wrapping supplies. One shop that takes pride in its elevated and beautiful stationery materials is The Paper Place.
The family-owned stationery and gifting business has been in the valley for more than 47 years. Mother and daughter team Judy and Nancy Silver opened the store in 1978 in Scottsdale and immediately received positive feedback. Shortly before Judy Silver passed away in 1994, her younger daughter, Betsy Hendricks, joined the business.
Since then, Nancy and Betsy have run The Paper Place, serving generations of customers and providing the community with bespoke stationery and services, including party planning and invitation-making. “I think one of the reasons we have been around so long is because we go above and beyond for our customers to add that extra touch,” Hendricks says.
Like most anyone, you’ve probably experienced frustration when your vision of a perfectly wrapped gift is marred by too much or too little paper, unwanted creases or tears. Store manager, Linda Anderson gives us a tutorial on wrapping a gift perfectly every time.
“It’s more exciting when you get a beautifully wrapped gift. It increases the anticipation of what’s inside,” Hendricks says.
STEP-BY-STEP
HOW TO WRAP
STEP 1
4
Wrap the paper around your gift until the edge of the paper is in line with the edge of the gift. Tape the paper to hold it in place.
STEP 4
Turn the gift so the side is facing you. Put your hand in the center of the gift’s edge and push the paper down. This should give the paper the look of an “n.” 1 2
STEP 2
Fold the remaining paper over to fully cover the body of the gift. Tape the paper down.
3
STEP 3
Cut any excess paper from the sides to avoid bulkiness and unnecessary creasing.
STEP 5
From there, crease the edge of the paper and fold it into the gift.
ICONIC TIP
The less tape used during this part of the process, the better.
Make another crease to the unfolded part of the paper. 5 6 7 8
STEP 8
Once both sides have been folded and creased, you should be left with excess paper in the shape of a trapezoid.
STEP 6
STEP 7
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 on the unfolded corner.
STEP 9
Bring that piece to the already folded edge and tape it down.
STEP 10
Repeat Steps 3-9 on the unwrapped side of the gift.
10 11 12 13
STEP 13
Wrap the ribbon still on the spool around the present, creating a “t” on the bottom side.
STEP 12
Take the excess ribbon and twist it with the ribbon still on the spool until it is perpendicular.
STEP 11
Flip the bottom of the gift so it faces upward, and wrap the ribbon from the bottom of the gift to the top side of the present.
STEP 14
Measure the ribbon to match the side that’s already cut.
STEP 15
Tie a bow with the ribbon.
THAT'S A WRAP!
STEP 16
Fold the end of the ribbon in half and make a diagonal cut.
NY UNCOVERED
How to celebrate the holidays in the city that never sleeps.
By Masada Siegel
Photography by Brittany Petronella
As we stepped off the train at Penn Station, the energy of New York City enveloped us. My traveling companion, my eight-year-old son, wideeyed with wonder, could hardly contain his excitement.
The bustling streets pulsed with energy, and the towering skyscrapers seemed to never end. I paused to ask the building attendants at Madison Square Garden a question and when they heard it was my son’s first visit, they welcomed us with high fives, a discussion of baseball teams and a loud “Welcome to the Big Apple!” They even hailed a cab for us.
It felt like a scene straight out of a movie.
We laughed as we climbed into the yellow cab; I could see my son’s eyes sparkling.
We zipped through the streets, the sights whizzing by—from the hustle and bustle of Hell’s Kitchen to the serene beauty of Central Park, each moment burst with discovery. This was more than just a trip; it was the start of a journey into the heart of a city that never sleeps and is filled with endless excitement, as one would expect of NYC.
SEE
During the fall and winter holidays, NYC transforms into a wonderland. There are endless options for holiday-themed events throughout the city, including the ICONIC Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The
Schaer
Photography by Julienne
TOP:
Photography
by Billy Hickey.
TOP: Photography by Lindsay Silverman. BOTTOM: Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
tradition started in 1927 when the first giant character balloons were introduced. Be sure to stroll around the Upper West Side near the Natural History Museum the night before the parade to catch the balloon setup. It is a festive event that I have experienced several times.
Locals and tourists walk the streets to watch the massive balloons inflate, starting in the early evening and continuing until the early morning hours. Each balloon is tethered to a crew of handlers. ICONIC characters like Snoopy and SpongeBob SquarePants have become favorites over the years. The setup process is a unique opportunity to see in person the largerthan-life balloons and witness the kickoff to festive Thanksgiving traditions.
Check out Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This stunning winter event transforms the garden into an illuminated landscape. With a dazzling array of light displays, this experience includes pathways adorned with colorful lights, immersive installations and artistic projections. Visitors can wander through themed sections, from shimmering trees to enchanting arches, combining art and nature.
My holiday favorites include the ICONIC ice skating at Rockefeller Center, where the twinkling lights create a brilliant holiday atmosphere. Another often-missed skating venue is Wollman Rink in Central Park, where the city views and company of fellow skaters are a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
Photo courtesy of Diane Bondareff
STAY
One of the best places to stay is Loews Regency on New York’s Park Avenue, a luxury hotel on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Its location offers easy access to Times Square, Carnegie Hall and Central Park on foot.
Our room was spacious, modern, elegant and surprisingly quiet. It also boasted a balcony with a view of Central Park, making it a spectacular spot to watch the sunrise with a hot cup of coffee.
The hotel has 379 guest rooms yet has an intimate feel. Its luxurious spa, hair salon and the fabulous Regency Bar and Grill are filled with well-dressed tourists and elegant New Yorkers.
Photos courtesy of Lowes Regency Hotel
EAT
Regency Bar and Grill offers classic American fare with an international flair.
Led by Executive Chef Manjit Manohar, the restaurant crafts dishes of exceptional quality sourced from local and organic farms. The venue sources both sustainable and fresh ingredients.
Some menu suggestions include the classic RBG burger served on a toasted brioche bun, homemade pickles, lettuce, onion, tomato and cooked-to-perfection fries. If fish is your dish, you can’t go wrong with the pan-seared Branzino garnished with leeks, winter citrus, sunchoke and herb sauce.
Dessert is delicious, and if you don’t have room for delectable options like the Valrhona chocolate mousse with raspberry sauce, don’t worry—room service can always deliver, and you can indulge when you do.
One of the best meals in midtown Manhattan was at Le Marais, an old-fashioned French steakhouse with scrumptious steaks adorned by salads and fries. I indulged
in the entrecôte, Argentine grass-fed beef, while other diners commented how delightful the braised lamb shank, escarole and white beans dish was. Additional tasty options include the roasted salmon paired with haricots-verts and cherry tomatoes.
Everything is made with a French flair, and the food is sublime. Le Marais boasts an elegant but welcoming atmosphere, not to mention speedy service, which was an extra perk after a full day of wandering the city streets and exploring on foot.
An excellent option on the Upper West Side that serves mouthwatering modern Mediterranean dishes is The Hummus Place. This hidden gem is on 305 Amsterdam Ave.
A medley of flavors will surprise you, from fresh salads to hummus to various spectacular eggplant dishes. The food is authentic and tastes home-cooked. Be sure to try the thirst-quenching homemade lemonade, a personal favorite. The food is so good that I dined there more than three times during my one-week trip.
Journey to
SRI LANKA
Part I
Your ultimate guide to the tropical island of Sri Lanka
By David Rubin
.
Embark on a journey to the stunning island of Sri Lanka. Its rich history, artistic sensibilities and stylish accommodations will captivate you.
Sri Lanka (SL) is a teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, just off the southern tip of India. I loved exploring its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, fine cuisine, rich history, national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes.
This two-part article, “Journey to Sri Lanka,” begins with part one, which explores half of my recommended itinerary. Part two will complete the journey and be featured in the next issue. The duration and plan for your stay in Sri Lanka can be customized to fit your timeline and preferences.
ARCHITECTURE
With the arrival of Buddhism in the third century BCE, the island’s art and architecture flourished. Temples and stupas were intricately designed and adorned with elaborate carvings and frescoes, reflecting spiritual themes and devotion.
The legacy of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial rule introduced new styles and materials. This fusion created unique structures, blending local traditions with European influences.
Notable contemporary architecture in Sri Lanka strongly focuses on sustainability, blending modern design with the island’s cultural heritage. Architects and designers are crafting innovative spaces seamlessly integrating traditional elements, especially in hotel design.
1. COLOMBO
Colombo is the gateway city to Sri Lanka, and the main international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
Let Colombo introduce you to what lies ahead. Historical and cultural landmarks to see include Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, the National Museum of Colombo, and De Saram House. A food tour is recommended to explore the city’s multicultural blend of people and food.
You may also want to visit and learn about the ICONIC architecture of Geoffrey Bawa (1919 – 2003). The renowned architect from Sri Lanka is widely recognized as the country’s foremost influence on modern architecture.
Bawa was openly gay. His life and work often intersected with themes of identity and place. The richness of his legacy is reflected in a life lived authentically and creatively.
Top photo courtesy of Shangri-La Hotel
Colombo
SAMPLE ITINERARY
A “Best of the Best” recommended itinerary:
1. 2 - 3 nights in Colombo at Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo, Shangri-La Colombo, Uga Residence or ITC Ratnadipal, a Luxury Collection Hotel.
2. 2 - 3 nights in Jaffna at Jetwing Mahesa Bhawan.
3. 1 - 2 nights in Anuradhapura District at Uga Ulagalla.
4. 2 - 3 nights in Sigiriya at Water Garden Sigiriya, Jetwing Vil Uyana or Taru Villas – Maia Habarana.
5. 2 - 3 nights in Kandy at W15 Hanthana Estate, The Kandy House or The Kings Pavilion Kandy.
6. 2 - 4 nights/near Hatton at Ceylon Tea Trails, Camellia Hills, Uga Halloowella or Stafford Bungalow.
Look for locations 7-12 to be discussed in part 2 of Journey to Sri Lanka in the next edition of ICONIC LIFE.
7. 1 - 3 nights in Ella at Walaa Kulu or Nine Skies.
8. 2 - 3 nights in Yala at Hilton Yala Resort or Wild Coast Tented Lodge.
9. 2 - 4 nights in Tangalle at Amanwella Tangalle, an Aman Resort, Anantara Peace Heaven Tangalle Resort, Taru Villas Mawella or Last House Mawella.
10. 1 - 3 nights in/near Weligama Bay at Malabar Hill, Cape Weligama or Braganza House.
11. 1 - 3 nights in Galle at Amangalla, an Aman Resort, Taru Villas Rampart Street or Fort Bazaar.
12. 1 - 2 nights in Colombo. See above.
• Shorter options: The duration of your stay and itinerary can be customized to fit your timeline and preferences.
Bawa was known for creating fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing harmony with nature. His innovative use of space, light and materials, as well as his sensitivity to the surrounding landscape, has created benchmarks for architectural innovation.
Bawa’s architectural portfolio includes many projects, such as private residences, hotels, office buildings and public institutions. Explore Bawa’s designs and influence with visits to De Saram House, Galle Face Hotel, Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA), Tamarind Tree Restaurant, and Paradise Road The Gallery Cafe.
2. JAFFNA
Beyond the typical itinerary, consider exploring north Sri Lanka with a one-hour private scenic flight to Jaffna.
Jaffna is located at the northern tip of Sri Lanka. It is the capital city of the Northern Province and is known for its rich history and unique Tamil heritage.
During your visit, sail to Delft Island in the Indian Ocean. Explore the serpent-shaped “Growing Stone,” the ancient Baobab tree from Arabic traders and the colonial-era fort with its prominent Queen’s Tower. Visit the Stupa, a local worship site, then follow wild horses to the pristine beach with clear waters and diverse marine life.
Also, visit Nagadeepa Island, home to Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, one of Sri Lanka’s 16 holiest Buddhist temples. A 10-minute walk away lies the Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Kovil, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati as Pooshani Amman, revered for blessings of prosperity, protection and fertility.
On another day, explore Jaffna and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Jaffna Market, which offers a glimpse into local Tamil life. Visit The Minister’s Palace, a ruined architectural testament to the wealth and cultural richness of the Jaffna Kingdom that ruled the Northern region from the 13th to early 17th century.
3. ANURADHAPURA DISTRICT
Enjoy a scenic four-hour drive south to the Anuradhapura District and stay at Uga Ulagalla Resort, a luxurious retreat surrounded by reservoirs, lush paddy fields and lily ponds. Explore rustic farmland, local villages and indigenous forests, where you may spot elephants and other wildlife.
Spend a day exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which dates back to at least 1000 BCE and served as Sri Lanka’s capital from the fifth century BCE to the 11th century CE. This is where rulers embraced Buddhism in the third century BCE.
4. SIGIRIYA
With a scenic one-hour drive south of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya is a must-see site. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock, is an ICONIC UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sigiriya was constructed as a fortified royal palace complex situated strategically on a massive rock outcrop nearly 660 feet above the surrounding plains, which offered natural protection against invaders.
Dating back to the fifth century CE, Sigiriya showcases the sophisticated engineering and architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. To reach the fortress, the ascent involves a series of stairs and pathways that guide you to various viewpoints and attractions, including the renowned frescoes and the Mirror Wall.
In the countryside around Sigiriya, spend a day exploring a remote village by bicycle, e-bike, or tuk-tuk. This immersive experience allows visitors to engage with the local culture and way of life.
Near Sigiriya, a photo safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park, or Hurulu Eco Park provides opportunities to see Asian elephants,
THE GIFT OF GIVING
A donation to The Asha Trust Sri Lanka helps sustain the efforts of a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and support to underprivileged children and their families. Established in London in 1991, Asha works on the outskirts of Colombo, offering a range of educational and recreational programs for children, including art therapy, mindfulness, dance and music sessions.
It also supports children with disabilities, helping families access specialized care. In July 2022, the trust launched the Family Food Challenge, seeking donations to provide essential food supplies to families facing hardship due to rising inflation.
Donate today at www.ashatrust.co.uk
LEFT PAGE: Top Left & Bottom Photos courtesy of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
Top Photo courtesy of Ceylon Tea Trails.
RIGHT PAGE:
Top Photo courtesy of Ceylon Tea Trails.
Bottom Photos courtesy of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
Sri Lankan sloth bears, Sambar deer, wild boar, pythons, monitor lizards and butterflies such as the Common Rose and Blue Tiger. Birdwatching is exceptional as well.
5. KANDY
On the 3.5-hour drive between Sigiriya and the city of Kandy, stop to visit the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. The temple is a significant historical and religious site, famous for its ancient cave paintings and Buddha statues.
As you journey toward Kandy, the landscape transitions from flat plains to gently rolling hills. You will pass scenic rice paddies and vibrant agricultural fields. When you approach Kandy, plan to explore the region’s tropical beauty, including rubber plantations and tea estates, during your stay.
Kandy is located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s cultural capital. In the center of Kandy, bordering Lake Kandy, is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This is the most significant Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, housing the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. It is an active temple, and visitors can witness traditional rituals and offerings.
A personal favorite experience is visiting Kandy Lake as sunset approaches. There, you can witness thousands of white egrets and large bats flying into the trees surrounding the lake to nest for the night, creating a beautiful, natural spectacle.
Just outside of Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya is famous for its vast collection of tropical plants that includes more than 4,000 species.
Upon departing Kandy by train, a highlight is enjoying the colonial-era station and riding the old trains that have changed little over the decades.
6. HATTON
This three-hour train ride to Hatton is a wonderful way to see the rolling countryside as you climb into the hills and tea plantations. Luxury accommodation options include exceptional colonial-era tea planters’ estates with beautiful views of hills and lakes. Activities include hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, croquet, tea factory visits, tea tastings and spa treatments. The resident tea planters will show you their age-old tea-making process.
Part two will be featured in the next issue, completing the journey.
TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR TRAVEL
To book your business and leisure travels worldwide, call David Rubin and his team at DavidTravel. In 1996, David moved from a successful law practice, followed a deep passion for travel, and launched his travel company. For more than a decade, David has been on both 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.
WONDERLAND winter
Discover the magic of Lapland in Finland.
By Nakayla Shakespeare
It’s hard to argue that there is a destination more magical than Lapland. Between the magnificent wildlife, plush and powdery snowfall, family-friendly activities and the beautiful aurora borealis that dance in the starry night sky, Lapland is a place of wonder and joy.
Lapland is a region of northern Europe in the Arctic Circle. Its typography consists of the Kolen Mountains to the west, swamplands in the central region, and forests of pine trees, dwarf birch, heath and lichens in the tundra to the north.
Popularly known as the abode of Santa Claus, Lapland is a popular holiday destination. With husky and reindeer farms that offer sled rides through the snowy forests, watch-parties of the ICONIC northern lights and strolls through Santa’s village, Lapland offers festive activities perfect for families.
Lapland is an unforgettable place and the ideal destination for a memorable vacation.
