September/October 2009
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� spaces september/october 2009
southern california
contents
September/October 2009
spacesmag.com
c o v e r s to r y
Above: Contemporary cabinets of natural maple and stainless steel—a hot design trend—are warmed by tomato-red walls and licorice-hued countertops in this high-tech kitchen created by Showcase Kitchens & Baths. “A great kitchen is like having Walden Pond in your home,” says James Rice, the company’s owner. Photo by David Crane.
On the cover: Los Angeles designer Troy Adams utilizes his trademark FusionDesign techniques to create a Zen-inspired bathroom that seamlessly melds elements of Asia, Europe and the U.S.
30 DesignerLabels Checkoutstylishelementsofmodern
andcontemporarykitchensandbaths.
S O C A L S O C O O L
13 ShopTreatment ATolucaLakeboutiquecreatesa
havenforuniquehome,giftandgardenmerchandise.
18 TradeSecrets DesignerRyanBrowninfuses
live-incomfortinhisremodelingprojects.
22 BestinShow Addstyleandconveniencetoyour
home’slivingspaceswiththeseup-datedappliances.
D E PA R T M E N T S
38 Chef’sTable Anever-changingmenuandextensive
winelistenhancetheexperienceatPalateFood+Wine.
44 High-TechHome Thesenext-generationgadgetscan
workmagicwithhouseholdchores.
48 CauseforApplause FiveSanFernandoValleyarchitects
opentheirhomesforafund-raisingtour.
50 FinishingTouch Award-winningartistAnthonyVerity
offershisownsurrealinterpretationoftheworld.
� spaces september/october 2009
An accomplished
pastry chef with a young
family of her own, Sandra
Barrera felt a real connec-
tion with Ryan Brown as
she talked to the star of
Bravo TV’s “Flipping Out”
about his designs for ac-
tive lifestyles. Sandra is also a veter-
an reporter for the Los Angeles Daily
News, covering design, fashion and
entertainment.
A photojournalist
for 25 years, David Crane
has the ability to turn life
into art. He graduated
from the Brooks Institute of
Photography in Santa Bar-
bara and is currently a staff
photographer for the Los
Angeles Daily News. His professional
accolades include being named Pho-
tographer of the Year by the National
Press Photographers Association.
The kitchen and bathroom are
the most essential rooms in your
home. You want these spaces to
be comfortable and welcoming, while
reflecting your lifestyle and personal-
ity. That said, it never hurts to have a
second—or even a third—opinion. I can
recall being in a tile showroom, where
a woman enamored with a violet-
colored ceramic tile was laying out her
vision for what was sure to be a shock-
ingly vibrant kitchen. Her contractor
was diplomatically trying to talk her
into a more neutral choice when she told him, “Look,
this is my kitchen, and I like purple.” Thank goodness
for designers, who can help distill our preferences and
interpret our fantasies into rooms that are both strik-
ing and livable. They not only have the eye for the aes-
thetic, but also help to create future trends and estab-
lish industry practices. One of the leaders in the field
is Los Angeles-based designer Troy Adams, whose el-
egant bathroom is one of several inspirational rooms
featured in Spaces’ “Kitchen and Bath” issue. We also
talk to Ryan Brown, the co-host of Bravo TV’s “Flipping
Out,” about the growing popularity of “live-in kitch-
ens” in upscale home renovations. In addition, we give
you a peek at the latest in fabulous appliances, tempt-
ing for their practicality as well as their looks. We hope
you will find inspiration in the rooms we’ve showcased
and the insights offered by the designers who created
them.
Have a good story idea to share? Comments about the magazine? Write to me at [email protected].
editor’s letter
contributors Sensibly chic
A t work or at play,
Sue Doyle looks for ad-
venture. A police reporter
for the Los Angeles Daily
News, she covers may-
hem on the streets and
stories about extraordi-
nary people. Her spare
time finds her looking for the special
and unexpected in local shops and
boutiques.
WOODLAND HILLS6941 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
(818) 347-7775
MONROVIA405 W. Foothill Blvd.
(626) 471-3599
NORTH HOLLYWOOD7107 Radford Ave.
(818) 765-2629
NORTHRIDGE8814 Reseda Blvd.
(818) 772-8888
VAN NUYS5960 Van Nuys Blvd.
(818) 304-0444
publisherGregg Bertness
associate publisherMeaghan Miller
editor Barbara Jones
national editor Denise Gee
designer LeeAnn Nelson
photo director Dean Musgrove
contributing writers Sandra Barrera Holly Berecz Sue Doyle Natalie Haughton
contributing photographers Michael Owen Baker David Crane John McCoy
marketing director Bill Van Laningham
research director Liz Hamm
creative services manager Paul Schraeder
office manager Mary Anne Rozinsky
Los AngeLes newspAper group
president & ceoFred H. Hamilton
executive vice president & cfoJames Siegrist
Publisher, Daily NewsJack Klunder
contAct us
editorial: 818/713-3710 [email protected]
advertising: 818/713-3323 [email protected]
Copyright 2009 Southern California Spaces magazine by the Los Angeles Newspaper Group. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Southern California Spaces magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos or artwork even if accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope.
Comments? Southern California Spaces welcomes story ideas and comments from our readers. Write to: Spaces, 21860 Burbank Blvd., Ste. 120, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Volume 2 • Issue 5 spacesmag.com
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
We’ve traveled to Thailand, India, Africa, Indonesia, and China to bring you one of a kind pieces.
Sale in progress – great pieces at 50% off
Refi nishing services and custom furniture
13335 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oakswww.kampanat.com • 818.986.5432Monday-Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
september/october 2009 spaces 13
A bella boutiqueThe whimsicaland elegantfind a homeat Pergolinain Toluca Lake
By Sue Doyle
Photos byMichael Owen Baker
SoCalso cool
SHOP TREATMENT
The Venetian masks, the Milan pewter,
the jewelry made by Italian artisans:
Behind the red front door of Pergo-
lina are the images of Paulanna Cuccinello’s
heritage.
For 20 years, Cuccinello has owned the
sophisticated, one-of-a-kind home, gift and
garden boutique. It’s the same venue where
her Italian-born parents, Anthony and Rose
Chimo, ran the Flowers by Anthony Rose
shop for 45 years. “My store is European. The
vibe, the undertone is Italy,” Cuccinello says.
“Because I am first generation, it’s who I am.”
Pergolina10139 Riverside DriveToluca Lake818-508-7708www.pergolina.com
SHOP TREATMENT
Venetian masks ($35-$400) and fanciful figurines offer a bounty of gift and decorating ideas.
14 spaces september/october 2009
SoCalso cool
“It’s such a blast,” Cuccinello says.
“I get to make art every day.”
Cuccinello,whoworkedfor15yearsasa
floral designer and artist, opened the bou-
tique in a small space at the front of her
parents’ flower shop. She named her store
Pergolina, a reference to a pergola or arbor.
WhentheChimosretiredin1995,Cuccinel-
loexpandedintotheirspaceandmadeither
own.Asshesays,“Pergolinagrewup.”
And the artist turned the boutique into
her lively and ever-changing canvas. Gold
alphabet letters create a whimsical display
on a raspberry-colored wall, opposite one
adorned with dozens of Venetian masks.
The masks are handcrafted by Venetian
painterSergioBoldrin,afamilyfriendwho
alsocreatedmasksforthe1999movie“Eyes
WideShut.”
In back of the shop, Cuccinello crafts
dolls at her dad’s old work table. Some are
transformed into angels, others into Vene-
tianroyalty.Onecustomerordersadollthat
remindsherofhergrandmother.“It’ssuch
a blast,” Cuccinello says. “I get to make art
everyday.”
Witheveryturnintheshop,shoppersare
bound to find something that they simply
mustpickupandexaminewithglee.Abird
bath holds hundreds of metal tokens en-
gravedwithheartfeltmessages,suchas“Luck
for thee” and “I will cover you with 1,000
Owner Paulanna Cuccinello, top, opened her gift boutique on the former site of her parents’ flower shop.
16 spaces september/october 2009
Established in 2005, Westside Tile and Stone, Inc. is so much more than your neighborhood tile store.
We believe we have a number of responsibilities to serve you, our customer, and to represent our industry with integrity, quality and expertise.
Visit our 9300 square foot showroom and meet our well-trained, professional staff who are happy to guide you through an unparalleled selection of materials to help you realize your design ideas. In addition to expert project planning and design, we also off er the technical expertise that is necessary to complete your project to the highest standards, assuring you years of enjoyment.
Everything that you or your contrac-tor needs to complete your job can be found in our showroom. If needed, we can refer professionals who have, over the years, gained our respect from work-ing together on projects both large and small and whose honesty, workmanship and customer service meet our standards.
Our designer showroom is open 7 days a week. Come in and experience why we do everything that we do. We do it…
“For the love
of tile”
Westside Tile & Stone, Inc.
“For the love of tile…”7631 Canoga Avenue
818.704.9222
www.WestsideTile.com
SoCalso cool
kisses.” Fragrant soaps from Maine, Italy and
France are displayed near exotic candles and
decorated coffee mugs. Eye-catching door
charms made in India are covered in tiny, col-
orful hens. There’s even a feline bingo game
tucked in a corner. “I want the customer to
experience something fun,” Cuccinello says.
“But it has to happen in five seconds.”
For those looking for elegant items for the
home, there are pewter serving pieces cre-
ated by Milan-based Match, and lead crystal
champagne flutes and carafes. There are also
personal gifts, such as beaded bracelets cre-
ated from precious stones and a silk collar
stitched with mother of pearl and turquoise
beads.
As she does with her dolls, Cuccinello
makes accommodations when customers
ask for a custom jewelry item. It’s a practice
that has served Cuccinello’s family well for
more than a half-century. “My mother said,
‘Every thing you do, someone else can do.’
But the service you give makes you stand
out in business.’”
A maple leaf-shaped mask ($120) is among the more unique items.
Cuccinello’s hand-crafted dolls, made at her dad’s old work table, start at $300.
Westside Tile & Stone, Inc.“For the love of tile…”
A designer showroom in Canoga Park, specializing in decorative tile, award-winning pool design, outdoor hardscapes, kitchens and baths.
7631 Canoga Avenue ■ 818.704.9222 ■ Open 7 days a week
LIMESTONE ■ TRAVERTINE ■ PORCELAIN ■ GRANITE ■ SLATE ■ HAND-PAINTED CERAMIC, GLASS & COPPER SINKSAward-Winning OCEANSIDE Dealer ■ SICIS ■ Trend ■ Ken Mason Tile ■ Jeffrey Court ■ COBSA ■ LEA
Colorin a whole new dimension
Here’s what our customers have to say about our store:
“Amazing!”“Extraordinary”
“Sensational”“The best selection…”
Come see for yourself!
SoCalso cool
Got space?Materialsandproportion
makeallthedifference
BySandraBarrera
TRADE SECRETS
Spaciouskitchensandluxuriousmas-
terbaths.Ifanythingmakesorsellsa
house,it’sroomslikethese,saysRyan
Brown, the 35-year-old owner of Brown
Design and host of Bravo’s reality TV series
“Flipping Out.” Many of his design projects
inandaroundLosAngelesinvolveupdating
early 20th century homes, especially those
withsmallfunctionalkitchensandcramped
utilitarianbathrooms.
1� spaces september/october 2009
september/october 2009 spaces 19
“Our formula is to go in and really open
up the space, and to create a great room or
whatIcallalive-inkitchen,”hesays.“Some-
onecanbecookingandthekidscanbeinthe
same room doing homework or playing or
whatever.We’rejustnotasdisjointedaswe
usedtobe.”
Brown incorporated this philosophy in
renovating the traditional-style Los Feliz
home he shares with his partner, Dale, and
their3-year-olddaughter,Chloe.Browntore
outthewallseparatingthekitchenandfor-
mal dining room (which he relocated) and
createdafamily-friendlygreatroom.“Itfeels
like you’re sitting at the chef’s table in the
kitchen, which, when you go to a great res-
taurant, is always an amazing experience,”
Brown says. “You get the sights, the smells,
the sounds, everything.” Here, he provides
someinsightintothedesignprocess:
Wheredoyoubeginwhenitcomestocreatingalive-inkitchen?I look at the space and figure out how to
makeitlarger.Mynextimmediatequestion
is,howmuchdoyoucook?Ifsomebody’sbig
on cooking, I’m going to go with an indus-
trial space, a functioning hood to ventilate
theroomandplentyofspaceforprepping.If
not, I’mmore likelytosetaprettycounter-
topintotheisland.
SoCalso cool
Has the island has replaced the kitchen table?People are hanging out in the kitchen more
these days, so why not make them com-
fortable? I always try to put in a decent-size
island or peninsula with at least four bar
stools. Everyone can be in the kitchen when
someone is cooking or preparing food and no
one feels left out.
Everyone seems to want granite countertops. What makes it so appealing?It is an amazingly durable stone. But there
are so many other beautiful stones. I love
using Carrara or calacatta marble. Everyone
says, ‘It’s going to stain,’ or ‘It’s too porous.’
But my response has always been that if you
go into any bar or restaurant in France, Italy,
Germany or Spain, you’re going to see these
marble countertops that have been there
forever, and they’re beautiful. They get bet-
ter and better with age. It’s true they stain.
But short of red wine sitting on the bottom
of a bottle overnight, I haven’t gotten a stain
on marble that I haven’t been able to get out.
You do a lot of open shelving in your kitchens. What’s the thinking behind it?I like the look and functionality of just being
able to reach up and grab something with-
out having to open doors. On those shelves
I might mix cookbooks with spices, dishes,
glassware and, sometimes, even flowers. It
becomes this multi-use, horizontal surface
for accessories and items that you’re likely to
use on a daily basis.
One of your kitchens features a tomato-red china cabinet in a wood-and-stainless steel space, which seems so unexpected.The owner liked Asian-inspired antiques and
vintage pieces. So, I found what I thought was
a really interesting piece. It kind of became this
functional art piece for the room. What I like
about Asian-inspired pieces is that even though
they’re antique, they have modern lines.
Would you say clean, modern lines are your signature?Actually, I’d call it a casually sophisticated
I like to make every bathroom feel like a spa vacation.
20 spaces september/october 2009
september/october 2009 spaces 21
look.It’sawarm,lived-inlookthat’sstillneat
and tidy. It’s just a matter of planning. One
thingthatIdoisImakestorageaccessibleto
thekidsinallofthekids’roomsaswellasthe
kitchen-greatroom.
Yourmasterbathroomsareoftendeckedinchandeliers,animal-skinrugsandgorgeousfree-standingtubs.Whysoluxurious?Iliketomakeeverybathroomfeellikeaspa
vacation.
Howdoyouaccomplishthat?My standard has been the double shower.
It’s a wonderful experience to walk into
thatbigshowerandturnonhugerainheads
to wash away the worries of the day. But
the other thing you see quite frequently
are free-standing bathtubs, which bring a
lotofinterestasopposedtohavingabuilt-
in.Personally,Ijustthinkitlooksalotbet-
ter.Andifthebathroomhasahillsideview
thenIalwaystrytoorientthetubandthe
roomaroundthat.Ifitdoesn’thaveahill-
sideview,thenabigtrendishavingaview
of a little private garden off the master
bedroomandbathroom.It’stotallyZen.
Andwelllit.
I love having a lot of natural light. In the
planning stages, if we’re doing windows,
I always try to get in as many as possible.
And if the room is on the second floor,
there’s always the option of putting in a
skylight which can bring in a ton of light
intothebathroomaswell.
Butyou’renotagainstpendantlightinginyourbathrooms.Again, it’s kind of a functional art piece for
me. You can walk in at night and just have
thatlightonasopposedtoallthelightsinthe
bathroom,anditjustgivesthisniceglow.
SoCalso cool
Best in showGlass housingThe newest look in shower doors is
on a roll thanks to Fleurco Product’s
Kinetik Slice, a 90-pound barn-style
glass door that moves at the push of a
finger. It retrofits to 66" wide and 78¾"
high or can be customized. In vary-
ing styles of glass, it’s a great compact
way to conceal both a shower and
toilet room. Price varies; fleurco.com
or 800/326-2222.
Clear winnerSub-Zero’s glass-front wine refrigera-
tor (style 427R) offers eight roller-glide
shelves for wine and two refrigerated
drawers underneath. Each individually
controlled wine zone holds 78 bottles,
and the lockable unit, featuring a softly
lit display shelf for prized bottles, can
sport classic, platinum, carbon stain-
less or custom wood panels. Price var-
ies; subzero.com or 800/222-7820.
september/october 2009 spaces 23
Be an industry insider: Check out the most innovative
and stylish new products to win rave reviews at the
recent Kitchen/Bath Industry Show. —Denise Gee
Lace graceCaesarStone offers the look of
embossed lace in its Motivo
line of non-porous, carefree
quartz. Other lines offer simi-
larly unexpected textured pat-
terns, such as crocodile. About
$100 to $150 per square foot,
installed; caesarstoneus.com
or 877/978-2789.
z Turbo engineHow about roasting a 12-pound turkey in 40 minutes? That’s
the inner beauty of the 30-inch TurboChef SpeedCook Oven,
which uses convection and microwaves to get its work done
quickly, crisply and tenderly. The outer beauty touts such
two-tone finishes in stainless, white, ivory, charcoal, hearth
orange, thermal red, and evening blue. $6,000; turbochef.com
or 866/543-6569.
y All for oneFagor’s Washer/Dryer Combo unit, taking up 3 cubic
feet and holding 13-pound loads, is truly a space- and
time-saver. An LCD screen offers access to 16 programs,
including a delayed-start function. What’s more, it
doesn’t even require
exhaust ductwork,
making it perfect
for restrictive areas.
In silver ($1,100)
or white ($1,000);
fagoramerica.com
or 800/207-0806.
x Side swiperMany shower spray units
have to be wrestled like
snakes, but not the Hahns-
grohe SideWay Showerpan-
el. In a satin chrome finish,
it houses a concealed hose
that glides in and out, plus
five body sprays. $2,100;
hansgrohe-usa.com or 800/
334-0455.
SoCalso cool
z LayeredlookKohler’s Stages chef-inspired trough-style
sinks (in 33- and 45-inch widths) feature a
variety of perfect-fit accessories (think cut-
ting boards, trays and the like) for cooking
prep and cleanup. From $1,050; kohler.com
or800/456-4537.
x Exhaustingtheoptions
Ventilation hoods need not
beheavy-metalclunkers.Wit-
nessZephyr’sPadovaline,dreamedupbyrenowneddesignerFu-TungCheng.Hoodscanbe
customized with the materials of your choice — mosaic tile, patterned glass and decorative
plaster(suchasthiscustomfrescoeofaJapanesegardenonJapaneseplaster).From$3,700;
zephyronline.comor888/880-8368.
y SafebetHealthCraft’s Invisia Accent Ring Support
Railisdecidedlyasleekerlookforatubthan
the usual unimaginative, industrial-style
safetybar.Inchromeorwhite(about$225);
healthcraftproducts.comor888/619-9992.
24 spaces september/october 2009
SoCalso cool
2� spaces september/october 2009
w CoffeemateMiíele’s streamlined CVA
2662 Coffee System offers
quick, beautifully brewed
coffee and espresso (thanks
to unique Nespresso cap-
sules),andclean-touchsteel.
It holds 20 coffee capsules
and customizable user pro-
files. It also touts automatic
cleaning, a height-adjust-
able dispenser, a frothing
component for cappuccino
and a host of other fea-
tures. $2,450; miele.com or
800/883-4537fordealers.
LuxurylinersTotoofferstheWazaMiyabilineofgorgeous-
lyhand-paintedbathroomfurnishingswith
seasonalthemes,suchasthis“PineTree”line.
Notsonoticeableisthateachpieceisgeared
towaterconservation(thetoiletneedsonly
1.28gallonsperflush,andetchedfaucetonly
1.5gallonsperminute).From$10,000each;
tototusa.comor888/295-8134.
x DoubledutyTwoovensinthespaceofonetrulyispossible
thanks to GE’s Profile Series Single-Double
Oven. The larger lower unit (which can
holda22-poundturkey)featuresconvection
cooking; the slimmer top oven is geared to
casseroles,pizzasandthelike.About$2,500;
geappliances.comor800/626-2005.
z PlumperfectViking’s 30-inch Electric Induction Range
withconvectionovenistheonlyself-clean-
ing range in the industry and boasts the
largest oven cavity going. It features en-
ergy-efficient and safety-minded induction
technology, plus two dozen cool finishes,
includingplum.About$6500;viking.comor
888/845-4641.
x SteampowerLG’s energy- and water-efficient True-
Steam Washer (shown here in Riviera
Blue) is the largest-capacity front-load
washeronthemarket,toutingsuperior
steam-cleaning prowess (which, for
thematchingTrueSteamDryer,helps
leave clothes wrinkle and odor free).
An anti-vibration system makes the
duo ideal for second-floor laundry
rooms.$1,599forwasher;$1,499for
dryer; lge.com or 800/243-0000.
september/october 2009 spaces 27
Luxury linersToto offers the Waza Miyabi line of gorgeous-
ly hand-painted bathroom furnishings with
seasonal themes, such as this “Pine Tree” line.
Not so noticeable is that each piece is geared
to water conservation (the toilet needs only
1.28 gallons per flush, and etched faucet only
1.5 gallons per minute). From $10,000 each;
tototusa.com or 888/295-8134.
z Plum perfectViking’s 30-inch Electric Induction Range
with convection oven is the only self-clean-
ing range in the industry and boasts the
largest oven cavity going. It features en-
ergy-efficient and safety-minded induction
technology, plus two dozen cool finishes, in-
cluding plum. About $6,500; viking.com or
888/845-4641.
september/october 2009 spaces 27
x Steam powerLG’s energy- and water-efficient True-
Steam Washer (shown here in Riviera
Blue) is the largest-capacity front-load
washer on the market, touting superior
steam-cleaning prowess (which, for
the matching TrueSteam Dryer, helps
leave clothes wrinkle and odor free).
An anti-vibration system makes the
duo ideal for second-floor laundry
rooms. $1,599 for washer; $1,499 for
dryer; lge.com or 800/243-0000.
Yes, we are different! And proud of it...Stop in or call - we can’t wait to meet you.
DOTI WAS FEATURED IN THE 2009PASADENA SHOWCASE HOUSE OF DESIGN
Visit our showroom or call today! (818) 346-368421723 Vanowen Street // Across from Westfi eld Topanga Shopping Center // Canoga Park
www.DOTIWoodlandHills.com // www.DOTICommercial.com
Yes, we are different! And proud of it...Stop in or call - we can’t wait to meet you.
DOTI WAS FEATURED IN THE 2009PASADENA SHOWCASE HOUSE OF DESIGN
Visit our showroom or call today! (818) 346-368421723 Vanowen Street // Across from Westfi eld Topanga Shopping Center // Canoga Park
www.DOTIWoodlandHills.com // www.DOTICommercial.com
30 spaces september/october 2009
Contemporary
designs
for the
kitchen & bath
By Barbara Jones
The elements of
styleKitchens and baths may be the most
functional rooms in the house, but
thatdoesn’tmeanyouhavetosacrifice
goodlooksforutility—orviceversa—whenit
comestodesign.Asproof,we’veassembleda
samplingofcontemporaryandelegantkitch-
ensandbathsfromseveralofthearea’sinspi-
rationaldesigners,alongwithguidestocabi-
nets,countertops,appliancesandmore.
Asanyonewhohaseverexperiencedaspa
getaway will tell you, there’s nothing like it
for taming stress or rejuvenating your spirit.
Rather than jetting off to a resort for pam-
pering, more homeowners are incorporat-
ingspaelements intotheirbathroommake-
overs. Whether sleek and minimalist or rich
andornate,thespabathroomisaplacetolie
back,relaxandshutouttherestoftheworld.
“The bath is a tranquil space that nourishes
the spirit,” says Troy Adams, who designed
theminimalistbathroomspapicturedonthe
coverandatright.“Workingwiththenatural
materialsandacleandesignpalettegivesyou
thetoolstocreateasanctuary.”
Attheotherendofthedesignspectrumisa
moretraditionalbathroomcreatedbyindustry
september/october 2009 spaces 31
Award-winning designer Troy
Adams evokes images of nature
with this spa bathroom built for
a client in the Hollywood Hills.
q The Asian-inspired décor includes a serene color palette and LED pendant lights by Bruck.
w Floating shelves and a flat-screen TV have been integrated into the design.
e The custom vanity of Macassar ebony features a deep trough sink with a taupe CaesarStone countertop, backed by a frosted-glass panel framed in tropical wenge wood.
r The 3-by-4-foot stainless-steel soaking tub rests on a bed of river rock, with water flowing continuously around the base.
32 spaces september/october 2009
veteranHeleneLottothatdrawsonthewarm
hues and opulent textures of Tuscany. With
travertine ceramic tile, marble countertops
and copper and bronze fixtures, the updated
BellCanyonbathroomwastransformedintoa
five-starluxuryretreatthattakesadvantageof
thehome’sspectacularhillsideviews.
Today’skitchensarebreakingfreeoftradi-
tional floor plans, with open areas extending
into the living and dining areas to encourage
socializingandentertaining.Anislandorpen-
insulanotonlyexpandstheavailablecounter
space, but offers a family-friendly seating op-
tion. “We design around a lifestyle,” says Jim
Rice,ownerofShowcaseKitchensandBaths.
The Westlake Village-based design-build
firmcreatedbothofourfeaturedkitchens—
the Italian-inspired kitchen, at right, and
a contemporary space with a retro décor.
Thoughvastlydifferentstyles,eachistime-
lessinitsownway.“Ifyoudoitright,”Rice
says,“you’llneverhavetoreplaceit.”
ManyoftheprojectscompletedbyRice’s
company, as well as those created by Troy
AdamsDesigninWestHollywood,maskap-
pliancesandotherelementsofthe“working
kitchen”behindfurniture-gradedrawersand
cabinets. “Who wouldn’t rather see beauti-
fulfurnitureasopposedtoappliances,”says
Adams,whoseclienteleincludesactorsSela
WardandEddieMurphy.
Adesignerofkitchensandbathsformore
than 20 years, Adams has seen dramatic
changesininteriordesigntrends,especiallya
growingawarenessoftheneedforsustainable
products—“it’sourdutytostarttakingalook
at eco-friendly design”—and the use of low-
toxic paints, veneers from managed forests
andrecycledmaterials.Healsonotesthatthe
economicdownturnhassparkedagreaterap-
preciationoffamilyandadesiretostaycloser
tothenest.“Peoplearesayinghomemore,”he
says.“They’reputtingmoreofanemphasison
theinsideoftheirhomes.”
Withthesesuggestionsatyourfingertips,
youcantransformyourbeautifulhomeinto
astunningshowcase.
september/october 2009 spaces 33
Created by Showcase Kitchen &
Bath, this Tuscan-inspired space
offers a taste of la dolce vita
with rich colors and coordinating
textures.
q Furniture-grade Wood-mode cabinets feature conveniences like shelf organizers and self-closing drawers.
w A French La Cornue stove with a black satin finish becomes the centerpiece of the chef’s kitchen.
e Carved black granite atop the island complements the brown granite countertops.
r Intricate hand-carved molding frames a ceramic tile back-splash with Florentine-style accents.
Photo: David Crane
34 spaces september/october 2009
Designer Helene Lotto, in
association with Vicki Korniski,
brought a bit of Tuscany to a
Bell Canyon home. Italian-
inspired kitchens and baths
continue to be a hot trend.
q A pendant light of antiqued iron from Fine Art Lamps provides a soft, muted glow.
w Rosa verona marble creates a sumptuous look on the tub surround.
e Walker Zanger’s Venezia Classico Antique tile warms the glass-enclosed shower.
september/october 2009 spaces 35
r Hues from Benjamin Moore’s historical colors palette bring a warm luster to the space.
t The rich finish on the Omega cabinets complements the marble countertops.
y Copper vessel sinks from Stone Forest add to the old-world charm.
u Floor tiles in quartz slate from Jeffrey Court complete the rustic look.
3� spaces september/october 2009
With an open floor plan that
invites conversation, this con-
temporary kitchen by Showcase
Kitchens & Baths in Westlake
Village is designed for entertain-
ing or family-friendly meals.
q Reminiscent of a classic tool chest, the cherry-red hutch is another Wood-mode design. The over-size drawer pulls match those in the rest of the kitchen and draw the look together.
w The glass counter is the perfect place for morning coffee while the pub table, topped with vibrant red Zodiaq quartz, expands the seating options.
e Thermador’s cooktop and built-in convection and microwave ovens add gourmet styling with the addition of stainless steel.
september/october 2009 spaces 37
r With front panels that match the maple cabinets, the Sub-zero refrigerator-freezer and dish-washer are hidden from sight.
t Wood-mode cabinets, which feature ground-glass insets in the maple and stainless-steel doors, are complemented by Zodiaq countertops in a licorice hue. A backsplash of one-inch glass tiles enhances the design.
y The stylish chef’s accessory tree keeps tools handy, yet out of the way.
Photo: David Crane
38 spaces september/october 2009
Winningformula
chef’s table
When you add it all up, there’s more
than just dinner at Palate Food
+ Wine. Located on the bottom
floor of a wine-storage depot, Palate is a res-
taurant, a wine shop, a tasting bar, a cheese
cellar and a “gastronomic” library with more
than 200 titles. “It’s a wine-centric, passion-
ate and down-to-earth place,” says Octavio
Becerra, a self-made chef who opened the
Glendale eatery about a year ago.
Unlike many of his colleagues whose
affinity for cooking began at an
early age, the Los Angeles na-
tive launched his culinary ca-
reer almost by accident. “At 19,
I stumbled into the Cadillac
Café. It was my first
restaurant job,” he
W+ Wine. Located
floor of a wine-storage depot,
taurant, a wine shop, a tasting
cellar and a “gastronomic”
than 200 titles. “It’s a wine-centric,
ate and down-to-earth place,”
Becerra, a self-made chef
Glendale eatery about a
Unlike many of his
affinity for cooking
early age, the
tive launched
reer almost
I stumbled
Café.
Palate Food+Wineis much more than the sum of its parts
By Natalie Haughton • Photos by David Crane
recalls. “The restaurant offered a creative en-
vironment and a platform or medium where
I could truly express myself. I really became
interested in touching people’s senses,
sights, sounds, smell, touch and, ultimately,
taste. I went into it from an aesthetic point of
view — and wasn’t really focused on becom-
ing a chef.”
That changed after a pivotal meeting
with restaurateur Joachim Splichal, who was
working a two-night stint as a guest chef at
the café. Splichal hired Becerra to work at
Max Au Triangle in Beverly Hills — “I waited
all day for an interview that lasted 45 sec-
onds,” Becerra says — and later arranged for
the budding chef to work at Michelin-starred
restaurants in France and Spain.
Returning to the U.S., Becerra went to
A sampling of the ample selection in the wine shop adorns the contemporary setting
of the bistro’s main dining room.
40 spaces september/october 2009
restaurant PALATE FOOD + WINE933 S. Brand Blvd.Glendale818/662-9463www.palatefoodwine.com
reservationsrecommended? Yes
dinner with winefor two About $100
chef’s table
work for the Patina Group, becoming ex-
ecutive chief and a partner in Pinot Bistro in
Studio City. He was instrumental in opening
several other Patina Group restaurants and
training chefs until his departure in mid-
2005. “It was just time to move on,” Becerra
says. “I was 40 years old, and if I didn’t pull
the trigger then, it would be more difficult at
45 and almost impossible at 50.”
Palate represents Becerra’s first solo res-
taurant project, an enterprise with 26 in-
vesting partners. He describes the cuisine as
“infused with a Mediterranean sensibility”
using ingredients from local growers. “I have
great reverance for ingredients and tech-
nique and letting the ingredients sing on the
plate,” he says.
The menu changes every Thursday, but
always includes a signature “porkfolio” of
cured meats, along with mason jars of pa-
tés or potted meats and fish. Entrees may
include prosciutto-wrapped scallops, pork
belly with stone-ground grits or prime beef
with spring onion agrodolce.
Wine director Steve Goldun has assem-
bed a broad selection of wines from around
the world, which can be paired with dinner,
tasted at the bar or purchased at the shop in
the rear of the restaurant. “We have a syn-
ergistic relationship between the wine shop
and the restaurant, and 90 percent of the
value-driven wines in the restaurant can be
purchased in the wine shop.”
Although other restaurateurs are daunt-
ed by the down economy, Becerra hopes the
dampened real-estate market will give him
the opportunity to expand. “I think it’s safe
to say that I’m not just a one restaurant kind
of a chef,” he says.
SPOTLIGHT ON...
CHEF OCTAVIO BECERRAAGE: 45
HOMETOWN: Los AngelesLos Angeles
COOKING STYLE: COOKING STYLE: Mediterranean influence with Mediterranean influence with locally sourced ingredients.locally sourced ingredients.
FIVE COOKING STAPLES: FIVE COOKING STAPLES: Great olive oil, fleur de sel sea salt, olive oil, fleur de sel sea salt, farm-raised eggs, hand-made farm-raised eggs, hand-made tortillas, his mother’s salsa.tortillas, his mother’s salsa.
FAVORITE KITFAVORITE KITFAVORITE K CHCHITCHIT ECHECH N GEN GE AN GAN G DGET:ET:ETTruffle slicer.
FAVORITE COOOOKBOOKS: “Chez Panisse Cafe Cookbook,” by Panisse Cafe Cookbook,” by Alice Waters; “Ripailles,” by Alice Waters; “Ripailles,” by Stéphane Reynaud.Stéphane Reynaud.
FAVORITE DISH AT PFAVORITE DISH AT PAFAVORITE DISH AT PAFAVORITE DISH AT P LATE:ATE:ATECalamari with figs.Calamari with figs.
Heirloom Tomato SaladServes 8
4 heirloom tomatoes (use four different varieties)
24 cherry or Sweet 100 tomatoes (or a combination)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Banyuls vinegar (a mellow vinegar from the Banyuls-sur-Mer region of France)
1 cup wild arugula
4 ounces hard sheep’s-milk cheese, shaved
Rinse and pat dry tomatoes. Oven-dry the cherry or Sweet 100 tomatoes at 300° for
1 hour. Meanwhile, cut heirloom tomatoes into different sizes and shapes and place
on platter. Arrange oven-dried tomatoes on and around the heirlooms. Drizzle with
olive oil and vinegar and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with arugula
and shaved cheese.
Pho
to: J
ohn
McC
oy
Simple Opulence
Functional Art
glass tilesmosaics
natural stoneporcelain tile
Come Visit Our Showroom! Oceanside Glass | Jeffrey Court | Encore Ceramics | SICIS
We’ve go
t you covered
28826 Roadside Drive | Agoura Hills | 818.991.7737
hiGh techhome
When English sci-fi author Arthur C. Clarke wrote, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic,” he must have been thinking about these products, which are as easy to use as a magic wand.
—Holly Berecz
It’s a washMop and bucket, uncool. Floor washing robot, very cool!
Scooba 380, the premium floor-washing model from iRobot,
washes, scrubs, squeegees and dries hard floors while you
watch TV or run errands. Washing up to four rooms on a sin-
gle battery charge, it even cleans under cabinet edges, tables,
chairs and other hard-to-reach-places. Sells for $500.
store.irobot.com
DIY sodaTurn tap water into sparkling water or even flavored soda in
seconds. SodaStream Genesis offers an easy, environmentally
friendly way to get fizzy beverages in your home. Blast water
with CO₂ for fresh seltzer or use one of more than 60 flavors
to create your own soda concoction. Kits start around $120
and include reusable BPA-free bottles.
sodastreamusa.com
to use as a magic wand.
—Holly Berecz
Digital dinnerTired of fumbling through stacks of cookbooks and envelopes
of yellowed clippings to find that special recipe? Made by Key
Ingredient Corp., the Demy Digital Recipe Reader puts up to
2,500 recipes at your fingertips. Readable vertically or hori-
zontally, the 7-inch LCD touch screen is splash resistant and
easy to clean. Priced around $300, it also offers substitution
suggestions, a conversion calculator and three digital timers.
mydemy.com
46 spaces september/october 2009
hiGh tech home
HandsomehumidorA place to store stogies for true cigar aficio-
nados, the XS 200 humidor covers the three
vital elements of cigar preservation: humid-
ity, temperature and hygiene. Designed with
Liebherr’s signature sleek European styling,
the stainless steel housing is lined with Span-
ish cedar wood and a soft-touch temperature
panel. About $2,500.
liebherr-appliances.com
Direct to DVDStreamline bulky VHS tapes or share mov-
ies and photos without a computer. The
VRD-MC6, Sony’s next-generation multi-
function DVDirect recorder, connects with
virtually any camcorder, VCR or DVR to
transfer high- or standard-definition home
videos. Retailing for about $229, a 2.7-inch
color LCD screen lets you preview video or
up to six photos at a time.
sonystyle.com
september/october 2009 spaces 47
Modern simplicity
Simple and traditional in form yet housing ad-
vanced technology, the PAPPA*Phone lets you
use Voice Over Internet Protocol services like
Skype or iChat on any Mac or PC. Made from
solid brass and sustainable American walnut,
the streamlined phone converts your voice into
a digital signal that travels over the Internet.
The heirloom-quality wood-grain instrument
requires no software installation. Priced at
$300.
www.hulger.com
Frame by frameMore than just a picture frame, this 8-inch sleek, modern
design from Cevia is the world’s only connected digital photo
frame. With an easy-to-use on-screen menu, it connects
to the net to receive news, weather, “this day in history”
calendar and even photos from family and friends. Includes
interchangeable black and wood grain faceplates. Frame with
one-year PicturePlan about $225.
www.ceiva.com
Sound of silenceMaking meals with friends and family is fun, but not when
you can’t communicate over the whirling clatter of the range
hood. Space from Elica is the first range hood designed for
your ears. Featuring patented Deep Silence technology, its
sound-absorbing performance reduces noise by 35 percent.
Priced at $4,200, the only thing more impressive than the
way it doesn’t sound is its radically innovative appearance.
www.elica.com
4� spaces september/october 2009
cause for applause
Great design and environmentally
sensitive elements will be on dis-
play Sept. 13, when five award-
winning architects from the San Fernando
Valley open their own homes to the public.
Theself-guidedtourwillfeaturebothnewly
constructed and recently renovated homes,
offeringarichlyvariedpaletteofstyles.The
homesare locatedbetweenWoodlandHills
and Sherman Oaks, giving visitors ample
time to appreciate the architects’ imagina-
tive use of indoor and outdoor spaces and
gaininspirationfromtheirdesigns.
“Thisisnottracthousing,”saysVeronica
Terpatsi, an architect and assistant to the
director of the AIA’s Valley chapter, which
is sponsoring the half-day event. “There’s
a little bit of every kind of architecture. It’s
verymuchapersonalinterpretationofeach
architectfortheircraft.”
Thewestern-mostpointofthetour is in
Woodland Hills, where James Heimler has
spent more than a decade renovating his
1946 split-level residence into a state-of-
the-art “eco-home.” A long-time proponent
ofsustainabledesign,Heimlerincorporated
recycledmaterialsandenergy-efficienttech-
nology as he added a kitchen and trans-
formedotherlivingspacestointegratestyle
withtheenvironment.
The Encino home of Kenneth David Lee
camewithabitofhistorywhenhebought it
nearlyadecadeago.PreviouslyownedbySon-
nyandCherduringtheirheydayasarockduo,
thesprawlingranch-stylehousehadbeenrav-
agedbyfireandneglectandwasdestinedfor
demolition. Lee salvaged the structure, then
updateditwithcontemporaryandenergy-effi-
cientelementswhilemaintainingtheintegrity
oftheoriginaldesign.
MurraySiegel,anemeritusmemberofthe
AIA chapter, lives above it all–literally–in a
homethatisraisedontreatedcedarpolesto
spanastreambedinthehillsaboveEncino.
Architect James Heimler has incorporated sustainable elements into the kitchen and bath of his “eco-home,” one of five stops on a self-guided architects’ tour.
Take a self-guided tour of
five architects’ homes in
the San Fernando Valley,
11:30–4:30 p.m. Sunday,
Sept. 13. Cost is $35. For in-
formation and reservations,
call the American Institute
of Architects-San Fernando
Valley at 818/907-7151.
Architects in residenceSelf-guided tour offers glimpse of AIA members’ eco-friendly homes
Photos: D
avid Crane
Appropriately dubbed “Oak Shadows,” the
Japanese-inspired home features a series of
pavilionstuckedbetweenthetreesofanoak
grove. Ample decks overlook waterfalls, koi
pondsandevenoutdoormodeltrains.
TerryLynnDowningdesignedherhometo
resemble a classic 18th century French vine-
yard-farmhouse, with expansive windows
offering views of the rustic Sherman Oaks
hillsides. Her use of sustainable and recycled
elementsincludesmaterialssalvagedfromLos
Angeles’historicAmbassadorHotel.
The newest of the tour homes is Gus
Duffy’s“BarnonBeck,”arecentlycompleted
5,000-square-foothomethatevokestherus-
ticcharmofaquaintNewEnglandfarm.An-
choredbyaweather-vane-toppedtower,the
sprawling five-bedroom home features clas-
sicAmericanTraditionalstylingandcutting-
edgeconservationelements, includingalter-
native energy systems, renewable resources
andrecycledmaterials. — Barbara Jones
50 spaces september/october 2009
finishing touch
Anthony VerityA lifetime spent studying the lines, curves and angles of the human body gives Dr. Anthony Verity an affinity
for the lines, curves and angles of art. An emeritus professor of pathology at UCLA, Verity is also a self-
taught sculptor and painter who captured the gold medal at a Valley Artists Guild juried exhibition this spring.
His winning painting, “Persimmon Mountain,” and “Deep Lake,” above, are part of a series depicting his
surrealistic interpretations of the Garden of Eden. “I have an appreciation for patterns and lines that tends to
move toward the abstract,” Verity says. Born and educated in England, Verity immigrated to the United States
in 1959, about the same time he became interested in art. He became enamored of modern Japanese art, a
motif that finds its way into many of his sculptures, paintings and one-of-a-kind cards. To see more of his work,
visit www.anthonyfineart.net.
Deep Lake, Eden Series #5
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please call for more information or to schedule an appointment