With glimmers of optimism in the economy, homeowners are more confident and ready to change their homes and experiment with different colors and design styles that reflect the following trends emerging in 2014.
Back to basics. Black and white will be popular for 2014. Both are timeless classics and can be easily juxtaposed with different colors and textures. Charcoal will remain de rigueur.
Pops of color. Vibrant hues such as coral, yellow-green and bright blue and green will dominate infusing vivid accents into neutral palettes. You can never go wrong with a blue and white combo.
I love LA. Isn’t there a somewhat satirical song to that effect? I was born in Los Angeles, studied at UCLA and worked in LA, and I do love LA – this city is part of me. I love the rich Hollywood history, the beautiful beaches and the temperate weather. And, of course, I am partial to the shopping and dining in this City of Angels.
“I love perusing all the beautiful options in the many design shops in Los Angeles.”
For drinks and great food, a longtime hot spot is Trader Vic’s Lounge at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. With a decidedly Polynesian theme, Trader Vic’s is “Home of the Original Mai Tai” and a great place to relax and enjoy a drink. Part of the historic chain founded by Victor Bergeron in 1944, it is known for exotic cocktails and lively ambiance.
Another not-to-be-missed eatery is The Ivy Restaurant in West Hollywood. This popular spot is a longtime hub for Hollywood elite with its cozy French country-style interior, sunny patio and regional American classics.
The La Cienega district is, of course, also a favorite haunt of mine, especially since our firm was on Melrose Ave. for years. The district – located on La Cienega between Sunset Blvd. and Melrose – has attracted top interior designers for decades. In more recent years, the area has gained fame as a top destination for great products and design inspiration.
With its outdoorsy, walkable allure, this creatively influenced district is booming with dozens of design stores recently opened – the majority selling high-end furniture and accessories.
Especially appealing in this district is Melrose Place, a charming tree-lined street home to fabulous antiques stores and designer boutiques.
Another lively spot is the Melrose Design District in West Hollywood between Robertson and San Vicente boulevards. One of my preferred places to shop here is Formations, which for years has produced collections of historically inspired items such as lighting, furniture, planters and accessories. All items are beautifully handcrafted in Southern California.
I love David Jones Custom Florist – around the corner from Formations on Robertson Boulevard – recognized for its creative and original floral arrangements. This high-end studio has catered to clients from presidents to Hollywood stars to royalty.
And what’s a visit to LA without stopping by one of its storied hotels? My favorite property is the luxurious Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, a beautiful oasis in the heart of Beverly Hills. With a classic renaissance inspired motif, the hotel has the warmth and appeal of a private residence.
Spending a day shopping in LA’s Melrose Design District takes determination and a good pair of comfortable shoes.
The Beverly Hills Hotel – with its distinctive pink stucco façade – is a vibrant slice of history on Sunset Blvd. Dating back to 1912, this venerable spot is home to the legendary Polo Lounge, a top power-dining venue for decades. A famed retreat for movies stars ranging from Marlene Dietrich to Marilyn Monroe, this iconic property oozes old Hollywood glamour, style and romance – and to me offers the quintessence of LA.
What do you love about LA? Please share your thoughts. I always love to read your comments below.
This month much of the country is returning from summer travels, which makes me realize while I love to travel, staying home can be just as much fun. With this in mind, I’d like to share some of my favorite spots to shop and dine in my home city, San Francisco.
Shopping can be serious business. Fortunately there are plenty of spots to relax and unwind in San Francisco.
Start the perfect San Francisco day with a walk down Hayes Street, beginning at Franklin, then heading west. Don’t miss the wonderful boutiques and shops in the area, including some intriguing home décor shops as well as great restaurants and coffee shops. Highlights include:
PLANTATION– Distinctive home décor, including numerous accessories and tabletop accessories. 336 Hayes (415) 565-0888.
THE PAINTERS PLACE – Finely crafted custom framing – offering both classic and modern designs. 371 Hayes Street (415) 431-9827.
PROPELLER– A fabulous array of modern furnishings and hand built accessories for the home. 555 Hayes Street (415) 701-7767.
After touring the many shops on both sides of the street, unwind with an espresso, a special treat or brunch at:
LA BOULANGE – Famed French-style bakery and café. 500 Hayes Street (415) 863-3376.
STACKS– Fresh, simple and delicious American classics. 501 Hayes Street (415) 241-9011.
MIETTE– Fine cookies and other sweet confections. 449 Octavia Street (415) 626-6221.
Another favorite place of mine to stroll and shop is a small shopping district San Franciscans refer to as “Sacramento Street.” Located at the base of Pacific Heights, this area is a bit more upscale than Hayes Street. Here you’ll find:
SUE FISHER KING – A sumptuous store filled with rich textures and colors as well as the very finest in home furnishings. 3067 Sacramento Street (415) 922-7276.
ANTHEM – One of a kind antiques, as well as eye-catching furniture, lighting solutions and tabletop accessories. 3274 San Francisco Street (415) 440-6500.
POETICA ART & ANTIQUES– Rare antiques, accessories and vintage furniture. 3461 Sacramento Street (415) 637-5837.
THE DESK SET– A full-service fine stationery and custom invitation boutique. 3252 Sacramento Street (415) 921-9575
HENRY BENGUELIN – Handcrafted fine leather. 3091 Sacramento Street (415) 292-7559.
For a late lunch or dinner, I recommend GARIBALDIS – the quintessential neighborhood spot. 347 Presidio Avenue (415) 563-8841.
No matter what part of the city you frequent – from the upscale stores at Union Square or San Francisco Street to the thrift stores in the Mission District – San Francisco is a shopper’s paradise.
San Francisco is a great place to shop for home décor items.
Each neighborhood has its own unique flavor – and treasures – so the next time you are in the city, do some serious exploring. And please stop by our design studio at 155 Connecticut Street and pay us a visit. We’re quite sure it will become one of your San Francisco favorites.
