(BAD) Blog About Design

Featured Post: California Glamour

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

Yesterday, I had the honor of being featured on LDV with this post. Here is the post in case you missed it...When I think of California, I think of large estates set on perfectly manicured lawns, stylish women dressed in stunning outfits, and views of mountains and pristine beaches. (ABOVE) Designed by Warren Callister on Belvedere Island, this stunning California home has views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The landscaping gives the home an intimate feel. The mansard roof was a great choice as it plays up the home's elegance. (BELOW 1) Nestled behind trees, this modern home is located in Santa Barbra. It has a very 70s inspired architecture, very modern California glamour. The landscaping surrounding the home stays in line with the home's modern architecture. It's clean, simple, and well maintained. (BELOW 2) This European inspired villa is located in Holmby Hills. The front doors are absolutely stunning. The black stands out against the limestone facade. I love the tree in front of the left window. It has such an unusual form and makes a big statement as people come to the front door. (BELOW 3) The backyard of this Santa Barbra mansion is breathtaking. The many boxwoods create a nice "fence" around the pool which has sweeping views of the sea. I could see the most glamorous photoshoot taking place here. Which estate is your favorite?

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(1) Milly Joselyn Beaded Dress, (2) Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti Jeweled Collar Sweater Dress, (3) Noir Jewelry Neon Crystal Pendant Necklace, (4) Alexander McQueen Metallic Two Tone Sunglasses, (5) Anya Hindmarch Valorie Clutch, (6) Elizabeth and James Paige Flat Metallic Sandals

The Fashion: For the looks above, I was inspired by both Malibu and Beverly Hills. The beaded Milly dress could be worn for a stroll with your loved one on the beach or to chic restaurant in Beverly Hills. The Noir necklace has both a casual vibe with the robe chain and formal vibe with the crystal pendant. It's the perfect Malibu-Beverly hills inspired piece. The Anya clutch is just the right amount of sparkle for you outfit. A little black glamour? Which piece is your favorite?

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(ABOVE 4) The Mediterranean Revival, Hearst Mansion located in San Simeon, has sweeping views of the mountains and shore. The home was designed by architect Julia Morgan who had originally planned to design a small bungalow for William Hearst. After a month of discussion the decision for a small bungalow grew into a large scale castle. What are your thoughts on the Hearst Castle? (ABOVE 5) Designer Kelly Wearstler is well known for her love of Hollywood Regency. This fantastic sitting area has all the elements for California glamour. How amazing is that large sculpture to the far right? I love all the stone! What do you think of the Kelly Wearstler space?

Labels: Architecture, Design, Fashion

A Week In The City: Los Angeles Area

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My newest series "A Week in the City" takes you to some of the best places to travel to, where to stay, eat, and what to pack. The Los Angeles area of California is one of the most beautiful places in the world. From the beautiful, warm weather to the many eclectic places to stay and dine, it's a place that has attracted many people and will continue to do so. (ABOVE) I fell in love with this vintage photograph of cars driving in L.A. From the palm trees in the background, to the classic cars in the foreground, it embodies the California lifestyle.

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(1) The Los Angeles area is very hilly, because of this there are many gorgeous views. This view taken from a higher elevation close to L.A, shows the beauty and size of the city. Many celebrities have home's overlooking such views! I could definitely get used to this.

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(2) The Mr. C in Beverly Hills is one of the best boutique hotels you will find in the Los Angeles area. The hotel features a pool, restaurant, and spa. The exterior of the hotel is very 60-70s California. It's modern, yet has a few subtle classic elements.

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(3) One of the suites at the hotel. The guest rooms range from 365-1165 sq ft, each of the rooms has a private balcony overlooking Beverly Hills, and Los Angeles. In terms of the rooms design, I love the rich leather texture and the use of metal. It's a very rich looking space, however, it still feels fresh and laid back.

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(4-5) Mr.C hotel also has a pool! Though it's not very large, it's still a great space to unwind and have a drink at. I love the different colors used throughout the space!

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(6) I really like the blurred backdrop here. A very elegant, yet fun entry space. What do you think of the hotel? Have you stayed here before? Let us know in the comments!

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(7) Baco Mercat is one of the best restaurants in L.A. They serve a classic American cuisine. The best part is their super affordable price point. I love the look of the restaurant from the exterior. It looks super inviting! Amazing brass door.

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(8) This is one of the meals survived at the Baco Mercat. My mouth is literally salivating. I wonder what kind of sandwich this is. Any ideas? What do you think of this meal? Would you eat here?

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Labels: Design, Fashion

Celebrity Mansion: Mariah Carey

http://www.joycerey.com/photos.php?property_ID=52

The Fleur de Lys is a lavish estate located in Beverly Hills, California. Purchased by Mariah Carey, this home was priced at $125 million. With over 35,000 square feet of living space, this celebrity mansion is sure to impress. Built of Italian marble walls, French limestone floors, gold embossed leather wall coverings and gold leaf crown moldings, this estate is built to last. (ABOVE) I would have no problem coming home to this at the end of my day! I love the two columns straight ahead. They are in perfect line with the center of the mansion. Even though the estate is very large, it still feels like home. (BELOW 1) An aerial view of the estate, shows the wonderfully manicured grounds, pool, and front courtyard. This estate, was used in the film The Green Hornet. To the upper left of the image is the garage, which can hold over ten vehicles. (BELOW 2) Rear view of the estate. (BELOW 3) View from the rear landing, facing the yard. (BELOW 4) The estate at night.

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Labels: Architecture

Private Property

http://www.renaudmarion.com

Photographer Renaud Marion, captures the beauty and intricacy of the front gate in this series titled "Private Property". When you think of a home, you often think about the entry way as the focal point. In these photographs, the front gate is the focal point. While some front gates are stately and beautiful, others have a more "natural" appearance to say the least! (ABOVE) The front gate and architecture of this house are interconnect. Both are ornately decorated and stately. I love the row of hedges leading to the front doorway. (BELOW 1) This front gate looks like a Frank Lloyd Wright home awaits you on the other side. It's very modern, clean, and simple. (BELOW 2) This front gate appears to be far more cheerful. I love the bold turquoise, it's so calming. It seems the front gate here is manually operated. (BELOW 3) I see this front gate around a home in Beverly Hills. The columns and the potted hedges soften the black iron material, giving your eye a break. (BELOW 4) This front gate needs a little love and attention. It seems like things are getting overgrown around the gate. A smart move if you're trying to conceal your multi-million dollar home on the other side! (BELOW 5) This green gate makes me feel like I'm about to enter some far off land. You can see the tall Cypress trees stick out, I'm guessing a very stately home on the other side? What do you think of Renaud's work?