WESTSIDE DESIGN AND BUILD IS RESTORING HOPE—AND COMMUNITY—IN THE PALISADES
PLUS TOP INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS AND THE LOCAL HOME SERVICES WE LOVE
Dr. Tiffany Fischman, Concierge Pediatrician
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Home Again
We began putting this issue together in January, during the one-year anniversary of the Palisades Fire. It was a time filled with reflection, remembrance and emotion across our community—and it felt impossible not to let that moment shape our March Home issue. Over the past year, the idea of home has taken on an entirely new meaning. It is no longer just the structure where we live, but a state of mind—rooted in family, routine, resil ience and, above all, community. Home is where we show up for one another: the places that anchor our days, the people who steady us and the shared spaces that bring us back together, even after unimaginable loss.
At the heart of the issue is Westside Design and Build, local leaders helping families rebuild with integrity, authenticity and intention. Their work goes far beyond construction—it’s about restoring trust, listening deeply and honoring the emotional weight of rebuilding a life. Their commitment to thoughtful, community-centered rebuilding reflects the very best of what it means to come home again.
We also spotlight Zoie Brook Designs, with Zoie Aliado living and working right here in Brentwood. Her interiors are deeply personal, layered and timeless— homes that feel collected, lived-in and built to last. In a moment when permanence feels precious, her approach resonates deeply. Additionally, we introduce Blue Label Construction, a family-run West LA-based builder whose decades-long presence in the Palisades reflects the deep local roots and experience guiding today’s rebuilds, as well as Elizabeth Lamont, a beloved local interior designer whose eponymous Palisades boutique has proudly reopened following the fire.
This issue would not be complete without honoring Teryl Ciarlo of Teryl Designs, a longtime Brentwood resident whose devotion to the community is truly an inspiration. After losing so many Palisades projects, Teryl has spent the past year helping families thoughtfully reimagine their outdoor spaces. She also donated her time and resources to replant the landscaping at the Palisades fire department—an act that beautifully symbolizes renewal and gratitude.
Protection and preparedness are now central to how we define home, which is why we close the issue with Ember Pro and its mission to help safeguard houses against future wildfire risk—protecting not just structures, but legacies. And as always, we celebrate new community gathering places like For the Win, reminding us that sharing meals and supporting local businesses are essential threads of home.
This issue is an offering—to honor what was lost, celebrate what remains and look forward to what we are building together.
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
inside the issue
My Town: Teryl Ciarlo
The beloved landscape artist behind Teryl Designs share her
A Smash Hit
Cult-favorite burger concept For the Win opens its latest location in Brentwood Village Common Ground
In the wake of the Palisades Fire, Westside Design and Build is helping families rebuild with trust, care and a shared commitment to community Natural Selection
Zoie Aliado of Zoie Brook Designs reveals the
THE FASTEST GROWING REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE IN CALIFORNIA $4.3B SALES VOLUME IN 2025 over 5,670 UNITS CLOSED IN 2025 ARE YOU READY TO MOVE FORWARD?
city scene
1: Build Back Pali founders—and childhood friends—Mason Cohen, Jake Yoon and Dylan Fullmer hosted a community fundraising gala to mark the one-year anniversary of the Palisades Fire. 2: Sue O’Connor, Cathy Kagan, Ashley Cohen, Colleen Mintzer and Elisa Garrett. 3: The sold-out charity casino night was held at a beautiful oceanfront estate in Pacific Palisades. 4: Five local business owners including Ruby Hong Tran of Ruby Nails were honored with $50,000 checks to help during this difficult time. 5: The evening featured live performances by Annie Bosko (shown here) and Alisan Porter. 6: Andrew Halff, Brittany Crapper, Michael Burgess and Aili Nahas enjoying the casino. 7: Sam Gutstadt and Jedd Gold of Artkive.
Photography by Rich Schmitt and Mikhail Yarkeev
1: Photographer Trish Alison (center, with guests Shira Kozloff and Alissa Bartle) hosted a neighborhood gathering to honor the anniversary of the Palisades Fire. 2: Friends and event co-planners Meg Elliott, Alison, Michelle Murphy, Caryn Greenhut and Melissa Christian in their matching 90272 sweatshirts. 3: Max Barrett. 4: Ally Jaret, Michelle Bellamy, Jenna Laski and Sarah Gibbons. 5: Bartender Daniel Baker aka Baker from the Golden Bull. 6: Melanie Barth, Oliver Barth and London Jochen in front of the CHX food truck. 7: Rob Leff, Brett and Sky Brewer and Jamie Leff.
Photography by Trish Alison Photography
1: Legendary stylists Michael Canalé and Jeffrey Martinez at the reopening of their hair salon, Canale-Martinez, following the Palisades Fire. 2: Staff members proudly wear t-shirts boasting the Palisades zip code, 90272. 3: The salon has been refreshed with new furnishings but still has the same intimate feel. 4: A stunning concert of remembrance, healing and renewal took place at St. Matthew’s Chapel in Pacific Palisades on January 7th. 5: The performance was led by Grammy award-winning violinist (and Palisadian) Anne Akiko Meyers. 6: A beautiful spread by Shuck Brothers oyster bar and catering at a recent community event. 7: Shuck Brothers co-founder Jesse Migchelbrink prepping the cuisine.
ELIZABETH ASHER
ELIZABETH ASHER
1: George Clooney and Cindy Crawford at the 2026 WWD Style Awards, held at the Regent Santa Monica Beach. 2: Demi Moore received the evening’s Fashion Icon Award alongside her longtime stylist, Brad Goreski. 3: Honoree Pamela Anderson. 4: Cameron Diaz presented the Red Carpet Makeup Artist of the Year award to Gucci Westman, seated with Amanda Smith. 5: Paris Hilton snapped a selfie with “mini-influencer” Taylen Biggs. 6: Honorees Hailey Bieber and Kourtney Kardashian Barker. 7: Tyriq Withers and Jason Bolden, who won Red Carpet Stylist of the Year.
LA
Ameen Hakimianpour, Aaron Barzi and Shawn Ahdout. 3: A collaged wall inside the shop displays some of the brand’s biggest fans. 4: Lines formed down the street with people clamoring to get a taste of the signature “Grip, Rip and Dip” bagels. 5: Documenting for social media, naturally. 6: Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice was on hand to provide refreshments. 7: A group of happy customers.
1: Madeline Steinberg and Ardyn Solomon at the opening of PopUp Bagels in Brentwood. 2: PopUp Bagels CEO Tory Bartlett and
partner James Marzouk with Brian Coakly,
Photography by Carrie Amicucci
From responsible farms to our in-house roastery, every step is honored. Roasted by Q Grader Mahee, each batch delivers purity, quality, and a truly memorable cup.
business monthly
Elizabeth Lamont Returns to Pacific Palisades
For over three decades, Elizabeth Lamont has helped shape the homes and spaces of the Pacific Palisades, Brentwood and Malibu. Her firm provides full-service interior design and a carefully curated retail collection of furniture, décor and everyday essentials. With deep ties to the community and firsthand understanding of its recent challenges, Lamont and her team continue to support clients through each stage of homebuilding and renewal—offering steady guidance, thoughtful design and a trusted presence rooted in experience. 15231 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades; 310-230-0003; elizabethlamont.com
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Blue Label Construction: Your Local Luxury General Contractor
Blue Label Construction is a West LA–based general contractor with more than 35 years of experience specializing in custom homes, rebuilds and remodels throughout Brentwood, Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades. Working closely with architects, engineers and an in-house design team, the firm is known for craftsmanship, transparency and long-term durability. Founded by longtime Palisades resident and USC Viterbi graduate Isaac Waxtein, Blue Label remains a family-led business with deep local roots. 2632 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 363, Santa Monica; 310-393-5006; bluelc.com
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Luxury Home and Estate Management with Webb & Baker
Proud Palisadian Emily Webb Doskow is the founder of Webb & Baker, a luxury estate management firm providing white-glove oversight on a fractional basis. After 12 years managing high-value residences in NYC, East Hampton, London, St. Barth, Aspen and LA, Doskow launched Webb & Baker to deliver the same meticulous care on her own. From in-residence support while clients are home or traveling to comprehensive off-site management, her experienced team protects assets while maximizing the value and enjoyment of each property. 1740 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 109; 310-230-1891; webbandbaker.com
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California Closets: Leaders by Design
Although best known for beautifully crafted custom closets, California Closets offers personalized storage solutions that can bring order and ease to the entire home. From home offices and media centers to pantries, garages and more, every design is tailored to make more room for what matters. Discover what thoughtful design can do and enjoy 10% off your first project, valid through December 31, 2026, with maximum savings of $2,500. 1627 Montana Ave., Suite A, Santa Monica; 310-566-3280; californiaclosets.com
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Alexander Audiology: Personalized Hearing Care That Puts Patients First
Alexander Audiology, led by Dr. Melissa Alexander, Au.D., CCC-A, provides comprehensive, patient-centered hearing care in Santa Monica and the Santa Ynez Valley. The highly regarded practice specializes in advanced hearing evaluations, tinnitus diagnosis and management, custom hearing protection and personalized hearing aid solutions. Known for her compassionate approach and clinical expertise, Dr. Alexander helps patients reconnect with conversations, music and everyday life. 1260 15th St., Suite P2, Santa Monica; 424-738-3778; alexanderaudiology.com
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Platefit: The Original Vibration-Based Workout
Platefit is a thoughtfully designed Brentwood-based wellness studio dedicated to strength, nervous system regulation and genuine connection. Known for its vibration-based workouts, the top fitness destination helps calm the nervous system while building sustainable, functional strength from the inside out. Offerings extend beyond fitness to include yoga, boxing, Human Design workshops, Circles, workshops and intentional community gatherings rooted in presence and embodiment. New clients can enjoy a $27 one-week unlimited intro. 13050 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 208; 310-260-1498; platefit.co
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MY TOWN: TERYL CIARLO
“I love to make the short and pretty drive down to Palisades Park where San Vicente meets Ocean Avenue. I park and watch stunning sunsets and sweeping ocean views, and there are great dog walking paths, too. It’s a very easy way to get out into nature.”
Ocean Ave., Santa Monica; santamonica.gov
“I can always find something chic and unique at Permanent Vacation. They have such great fashion-forward selections that allow me to walk out feeling a bit more stylish.”
“Armstrong Garden Centers is the perfect place to purchase plants and vegetables for the garden. Hard-to-find varieties of roses and good quality plants are always available, along with a friendly and helpful staff. I can always find something here for my clients.”
3226 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica; 310-829-6766; armstronggarden.com
For Teryl Ciarlo, landscape design is deeply personal. The Brentwood-based founder of Teryl Designs is known throughout the westside for her impeccable taste, balanced compositions and outdoor spaces that feel as livable as the interiors they extend. “I’ve always believed the outside of the home should flow naturally from the inside,” says Ciarlo of her signature gardens designed equally for entertaining, play and everyday retreat. Ciarlo’s passion was planted early. Growing up in Southern California, she spent hours cutting roses and picking fruit on her grandmother’s two-acre property. “As an adult, I realized how lucky I was to grow up in those surroundings,” she says. “That’s where my infatuation truly began.” Like so many, the Palisades Fire changed Ciarlo forever. After witnessing the loss of dozens of clients’ homes, she has spent the past year tirelessly helping families rebuild and donated her time and crew to replant the landscaping at the Palisades fire station, alongside frequent collaborator Olivier Roumy of Cocoturf. Though her work spans throughout Los Angeles, Ciarlo proudly calls Brentwood home, drawn to its tree-lined streets, mountain views and rare blend of nature, neighborhood and everyday beauty. Here, she shares some of her favorite local spots. 310-463-7863; @teryldesigns; teryldesigns.com
“The Wilkes is such a charming old school restaurant with great food, a beautiful bar and leather booths. It has such a fun dinner vibe—like being in the neighborhood pub with a high-end culinary twist.”
148 S. Barrington Ave.; 310-474-3030; thewilkesla.com
“Rolling Greens is my go-to for baskets, antique garden vessels and interesting pots for making a statement in the garden. There are three different levels for all of your garden needs.”
9528 Jefferson Blvd., Culver City; 310-559-8656; rollinggreens.com
“Studio Brava is a cozy physical therapy and wellness studio. It’s a great place to get strong and recover from injuries and I love the new Pilates sculpting classes. The staff always makes me feel energized.”
11110 Ohio Ave.; Suite 105; 310-775-1609; studiobrava.com
“Knockout Beauty is my goto for curated makeup, hair accessories, body products and gifts. They offer hard-tofind products in a beautiful space. It is also woman-owned and so well thought-out.”
Cult-favorite burger concept For the Win opens its latest location in Brentwood Village
One of Los Angeles’ buzziest restaurant brands, For the Win, has officially brought its sought-after smash burger to Brentwood— and at first bite, it’s immediately clear why the concept has developed such a devoted following. The burger, crisped to perfection with its signature lacy edges, is built on an 81/19 beef blend, smashed hard on a hot grill to lock in juices, then layered with melted cheese, pickles, onions and house sauce on a toasted Martin’s potato bun. The result is a study in contrasts: crunchy and tender, rich yet restrained, indulgent without being overdone. (Pro tip: add the bacon.)
That careful balance—the texture, the restraint and the je ne sais quoi—is no accident.
Behind the wildly popular burger spot is founder Santos Uy, whose path to becoming one of LA’s busiest chefs didn’t start in a kitchen at all. “I’m an LA kid and went to USC,” says Uy. “I was supposed to be a doctor.” During his final year of college, his parents introduced him to Silverlake Wine, where he immersed himself in tastings before becoming the shop’s first employee. That early education led to a sommelier role at the original A.O.C. on 3rd Street in West Hollywood, working alongside local legends Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne.
Uy’s first fully owned hospitality venture was Mignon, a cozy wine and charcuterie bar that opened downtown in 2010 and developed a devoted following over its ten-year run. He springboarded from there to Papilles Bistro, which opened in 2011 in an unassuming strip mall off Franklin Boulevard in Hollywood. Uy didn’t step behind the stove himself until 2018, after letting go of his final chef. “I always thought I should be a chef—ever since I was a teenager,” he says. “I had the skills, the intuition and it felt like my calling.” Business at Papilles soared under his care, cementing Uy’s reputation as one to watch. Though Uy describes himself as a Francophile rather than French, Papilles became a critical darling, earning top accolades within the food industry and unexpectedly serving as the birthplace of For the Win.
A lifelong burger lover, Uy began making his now iconic smashed version in 2018 for staff meals. In 2019, he decided to plant the seeds of a burger concept during the day when Papilles was closed. “I wanted to fully utilize the space at all hours, and we didn’t have to pay rent to start another business,” he recalls. When COVID hit, the timing proved pivotal. The refined French bistro model didn’t translate well to takeout. “Beef Bourguignon is not so great out of a plastic container,” Uy admits—but burgers did. For the Win officially
“I always thought I should be a chef. It felt like my calling.”
Santos Uy at For the Win in Brentwood
For
the Win's famous smashburger
launched in March 2020. “Everyone came in—people wanted to support us,” Uy recalls. The move allowed him to hire back most of his employees. “People were saying this was the best burger they’d ever had,” says Uy. “We called it the ‘For the Win Moment.’”
As the old adage goes, when one door closes, another one opens. After a year, the concept expanded to Whittier, where pandemic restrictions were fewer, followed by Glendale. A breakthrough location at Grand Central Market then put the brand firmly on the map. By 2021, Papilles was retired and For the Win became Uy’s sole focus. Today, the concept boasts more than a dozen locations throughout greater Los Angeles and San Diego, with a Las Vegas outpost opening soon at the JW Marriott just off the Strip. “It’s easier to run this type of business and it’s better suited for to-go orders,” Uy says of the brand’s success.
Next, Uy set his sights on Brentwood. “We’ve had a slow, steady march out of Hollywood,” Uy says. “We get approached all the time, but we felt the westside really needed a great burger.” Located in the former Casa de Campo space next to All Roads, the Brentwood Village location opened in late 2025 after a swift renovation that included a fresh coat of paint and new kitchen equipment.
Marisa Renfro, Vice President at CBRE and the leasing agent for the space, agrees. “For the Win opening in Brentwood isn’t just a restaurant choice—it’s a community one,” she says. “The neighborhood was ready for it. It fills a void and delivers exactly what locals, families and nearby students have been missing.”
Beyond the burgers, the menu delivers across the board. Perfectly salted fries, indulgent milkshakes, crispy Brussels sprouts, grilled cheese sandwiches and other elevated comfort staples make it just as appealing for a casual family dinner as it is for a quick post-practice bite. Not surprisingly, the restaurant has already become a weekday favorite with students and families walking over from Brentwood and Archer schools after classes or before sporting events. “The village feels very European—almost like Santa Barbara,” Uy says. “It’s quaint and idyllic, close to the ocean but far enough from the chaos.”
“We toast the bun for contrast, build layers of crunch and softness and make sure every bite hits the right notes. It’s like a song hitting the perfect chord.”
Next up: a breakfast burrito launch at the Brentwood location, expanded westside catering and continued community collaborations—true to the spirit that turned a pandemic pivot into a smash hit.
And back in the kitchen, Uy sums up his burger philosophy simply. “We toast the bun for contrast, build layers of crunch and softness and make sure every bite hits the right notes,” he explains. “When you get the crisp bottom bun, the soft top, the crunch of the lace and pickles—it’s the composition of a layered sandwich. It’s like a song hitting the perfect chord.” For Brentwood, it’s a win, indeed.
For the Win
147 S. Barrington Ave. 424-248-0924 forthewinla.com
The restaurant also offers a variety of shakes
Sides include fries and crispy Brussels sprouts
The exterior in Brentwood Village
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COMMON GROUND
In the wake of the Palisades Fire, Westside Design and Build is helping families rebuild with trust, care and a shared commitment to community
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISH ALISON
For decades, the Pacific Palisades was the kind of place people rarely left—neighbors waved from their driveways, kids drifted between houses and daily life unfolded with a village-like ease that felt almost improbable for Los Angeles. For Bill Bodine and Beth Andersen, that rhythm stretched across forty years in the Alphabet Streets, where they raised their child, grew their careers and expanded their modest home over time into the
Rob Kilian of Westside Design and Build (center) with clients Katharine Newman and Stephen Kremser (left) and Bill Bodine and Beth Andersen (right) at a Westside Build logistics site in Pacific Palisades
“We loved the neighborhood and were well-positioned to quietly live out our remaining years there—until everything went away.”
house they believed they would live in forever. “We loved the neighborhood—it was such a fantastic place to raise a kid and so friendly,” says Beth, a musician who taught voice and piano lessons to children in the community for years (Bill is a producer and composer). “We were well-positioned to quietly live out our remaining years there—until everything went away.”
Just up the same street, Katharine Newman and Stephen Kremser were living a parallel version of that life. For fifteen years, they raised their four children in a pocket of the Palisades defined by proximity and connection. “It was this crazy feeling that you could live in the second-largest city in the country and still feel like you lived in a village,” Stephen says. Katharine describes daily life built around schools, sports, the library and the Palisades Recreation Center, all within walking distance. When the fire began in the hills on January 7th, neither family believed their homes would be lost. Fires had happened nearby before. This one felt distant—until it wasn’t.
What followed was disorientation layered onto loss. “Once your house burns down, you have a new full-time job,” Beth says. “People tell you to get a desk, and it’s true.” Policies shifted constantly. Decisions felt urgent and permanent at once. Stephen puts it bluntly: “It’s a zero-or-one situation.”
Both families knew almost immediately that they wanted to rebuild and return to the community that shaped their lives. What they didn’t know was how to navigate a process that felt unprecedented emotionally, logistically and financially. “We didn’t sign up for this process,” Katharine says. “We needed people who would guide us through it.”
That search led them to Westside Design and Build, a firm co-founded by best friends Rob Kilian and Chris Kabatsi, whose origin story is inseparable from the community it now serves. The pair met while studying architecture and engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in upstate New York, and later co-founded Arktura, a design and fabrication
A Palisades project in the Alphabet Streets by Westside Design and Build
company that evolved into a global architectural products manufacturer. “That company was sold in 2020,” Rob says, “and at that point it had about 200 people and international offices.”
After starting families—Chris in the Palisades with his wife, a local real estate agent, and children and Rob in Santa Monica with his wife and twin boys— their focus shifted to high-end residential building on the westside. When the fires hit, the work became personal overnight. Chris lost his own home, and the pair immediately sprang into action. “We were out in the Palisades on January 8th in our water trucks trying to protect clients’ homes, as well as countless others,” Rob says. “We needed to turn this bad energy into something positive and figure out how we could actually help.” Within days, they formed Westside Design and Build, partnering with longtime local builders DM Premier Group, led by Tzvika Diner and David Malka, to respond thoughtfully to the scale and urgency of the rebuild.
Today, that urgency is supported by infrastructure. Westside Build operates out of a 6,000-square-foot design studio in Santa Monica and a 20,000-squarefoot warehouse and fabrication facility in Gardena, along with multiple logistics and staging sites throughout the Palisades that allow the team to manage construction flow independently of shifting city constraints. Additional offices in Calabasas and Córdoba, Argentina support design and planning, creating a vertically integrated operation rarely seen in residential construction.
For Bill and Beth, the difference was immediate. In the days following the fire, Beth watched a late-night webinar hosted by Westside Build. “They really believe in the Palisades,” she says. “I remember thinking, ‘These guys sound pretty good—pretty together.’” From the first meeting, the tone felt different. “There was no ‘adapt to our concept,’” Bill says. “It was strictly, ‘What do you want?’” When he challenged early renderings, the response wasn’t defensive. “They heard what worked and what didn’t and they responded to it,” he says. Beth agrees: “Every time we challenged them, they just made it better.”
Katharine and Stephen felt that same sense of being heard. After speaking with more than a dozen architects and builders, they were drawn to Westside Build’s local presence and integrated approach. “This is a massive decision,” Stephen says. “You’re spending millions of dollars. You have to trust the team.” Katharine describes the process as collaborative and grounding. “If something doesn’t work, they come back with thoughtful options and know when to push back in a way that makes sense.”
Stephen Kremser and Katharine Newman
A rendering of their new Palisades home
At the core of Westside Build’s model is a mission to fix what Rob describes as a long-broken residential system. “The gap between the designer, the architect, the consultants and the builder—that’s what’s broken,” he says. Using advanced technology more common in commercial construction, the team creates fully coordinated digital models of each home to eliminate guesswork and control quality. “It reduces fixes, saves time and saves money,” Rob says, “and guarantees a solid house that lasts.”
For homeowners navigating trauma and uncertainty, that clarity matters. “I don’t have to worry about what the builder’s saying to the architect,” Beth says. “They’ve got it all covered.” Rob adds, “We’ve shed a lot of tears at the table hearing people’s stories. It was important to us to help people whose hearts are really in this place make it back.”
For both families, rebuilding isn’t about recreating what was lost—it’s about returning to a place that still feels like home. “Our kids love living here,” Katharine says. “Our youngest—this is all she knows.” Beth echoes the sentiment simply: “We really wanted to come back. This is home.” They know the Palisades that returns won’t be identical. “People worry it’ll be soulless,” Bill says. “Well, it’ll be new. You have to put soul on it. And we will.” Beth adds, “We’ve all lived through this— that’s where the soul comes from.”
“What’s coming back is a stronger, more accurate version of the Palisades. Homes that reflect the people who live in them.”
Rob sees that future clearly. “What’s coming back is a stronger, more accurate version of the Palisades,” he says. “Homes that reflect the people who live in them.” Westside Build’s role, he explains, is not to impose a formula. “We’re not doing any two houses the same. Everything is designed from scratch for each family.”
“I feel really comfortable telling people, ‘You can trust these guys,’” Beth says. “They’ll take care of you.” Bill puts it more simply: “They’re good people.” In a moment defined by loss, that trust—and the shared commitment to rebuilding thoughtfully—has become the most meaningful thing being built of all.
Westside Design and Build 1548 16th St., Santa Monica 310-708-4556
westsidebuild.com
Beth Andersen and Bill Bodine
A project on Kagawa Street
A more contemporary design by Westside Build
Natural Selection
For Brentwood-based interior designer Zoie Aliado, work has always been less about chasing moments and more about creating homes that feel grounded, personal and enduring. As the founder of Zoie Brook Designs, the LA-native is known for interiors that strike a thoughtful balance between beauty and function—spaces that feel elevated but never precious, layered but never overdone. “My design style is organic, modern and transitional,” Aliado says. “That comes from using a lot of natural materials and layering them—keeping the space modern while adding vintage items
so it feels timeless.” That approach is deeply informed by her life and work in Brentwood. “What I love about living and working here is that it’s part of a major city, Los Angeles, but it still feels very community-based,” Aliado says. “Everyone feels connected in a certain way. And it’s not cookie-cutter—every house is different, every client has their own vision and that allows for so much creativity when it comes to interiors.” As she looks forward, Aliado sees a broader shift taking place—away from fleeting trends and toward choices that feel lasting and intentional. “Design this year feels different from 2025,” she says. “The trends are pointing toward things that will actually stay in your home and won’t go out of style.”
RICH COLOR SATURATION
“I am loving rich color saturation within each room,” Aliado says. “We’re seeing walls, molding and ceilings all drenched in a deeper color.” Rather than relying on contrast alone, this immersive approach adds depth and warmth. “It gives the room more personality and makes it feel cozy and homey,” she explains. “It creates a really nice dynamic and makes the space feel richer overall.”
LAYERED PATTERNS & TEXTURES
Pattern is returning in a more expressive, thoughtful way. “The trend now is an increase in different patterns styled with different textures,” Aliado says. “In the past, it was a lot of neutrals, and now we’re seeing much more pattern—which I really love because it gives uniqueness and personality to a space.” She emphasizes the importance of scale. “When using patterns, it’s key to mix different sizes—like a larger check with a smaller stripe—so the room feels more dynamic and balanced.”
Zoie Aliado of Zoie Brook Designs reveals the latest trends that feel personal, lived-in and built to last
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULINA BERLIN
Zoie Aliado of Zoie Brook Designs
LIVED-IN, COLLECTED SPACES
“This is something I’ve always done, but it’s becoming more popular now,” Aliado says. “It’s about making design choices that make a home look lived-in, warm and inviting.” That feeling comes from thoughtful contrast. “Layering modern pieces with vintage pieces gives a home more personality,” she says. “It makes the space feel collected over time and really unique to each client.”
THE RISE OF MILLWORK
Architectural detailing is playing a bigger role in interiors. “We’re seeing a rise in millwork—more wall detailing, crown molding and detailed casing around doors and windows,” Aliado says. Millwork adds both structure and character. “It gives the house a personality of its own,” she notes. “It can also be used to frame different elements, like art or TVs, which adds sophistication and makes the space feel more intentional.”
ORGANIC, NATURAL STONE
Natural materials remain central to Aliado’s work. “There’s an increase in organic, unique natural stones, which I really love,” she says. She’s also incorporating stone in more expressive ways. “We’re seeing it used as accent pieces in powder rooms, kitchens, fireplaces and even certain types of furniture,” Aliado explains. “Natural stone brings character into each room because every piece has its own patterns and colors.”
Zoie Brook Designs
310-733-7355
zoiebrookdesigns.com
An interior by Zoie Brook Designs
ARTICLE BY RHIANNON JOHNSON
Stunning and UNIQUE HOMES
It takes a lot of work to make a house a home. A home reflects your personal style, functions to meet your goals, and provides relief from the outside world. However, unless you are a design professional, you likely need a bit of guidance to turn your thoughts and ideas into reality. One way to create a sanctuary that combines all the elements of your dream home is by immersing yourself in the advice and visions of award-winning architects and designers.
Flip through the gorgeous, glossy, photo-filled pages of these beautiful books and apply their lessons to your own home.
Learn how to integrate elegant timelessness, celebrate bold colors and eclectic patterns, or embrace the past while living stylishly in the present. You can then combine this global range of influences, unique perspectives, and aesthetic applications to create your own original design plan.
Whether you’re building a new home, planning a renovation, or your home is simply a constant work in progress, these four new releases are sure to provide the inspiration you need to transition your house into your dream home—whatever that may look like and wherever that may be. Enjoy!
Find inspiration in these four gorgeous books.
LEARN HOW TO INTEGRATE elegant timelessness, AND celebrate BOLD COLORS AND eclectic patterns, OR embrace THE PAST WHILE LIVING IN the present.
Home:
THE RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE OF D. STANLEY DIXON
Atlanta-based architect Stan Dixon has received tremendous media attention since the founding of his firm D. Stanley Dixon Architect, Inc. in 2006. His highly-anticipated debut book showcases thirteen projects from across the country. From a relaxed Jupiter Island coastal retreat to an elegant Englishmanor-inspired South Carolina home, each project varies geographically and stylistically, highlighting a variety of different aesthetic components.
Our Way Home: REIMAGINING AN AMERICAN FARMHOUSE
The defined style of cozy and simple living has led to a rise in American farmhouse design in recent years. Interior designer Heide Hendricks and architect-builder Rafe Churchill show how they have brought twenty-first-century living to their late nineteenth-century New England farmhouse. This husband-and-wife team combined their talents to create a historic home that is both a personal retreat designed for everyday life and a constant source of inspiration for their other projects.
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COMBINE THIS global range OF INFLUENCES, unique perspectives, AND aesthetic applications TO CREATE YOUR OWN ORIGINAL DESIGN PLAN.
Villa d’Este:
LEGEND ON LAKE COMO
In 1568 Tolomeo Gallio commissioned a grand villa overlooking Italy’s magnificent Lake Como. After two centuries in the Gallio family, Villa d’Este became home to multiple members of the aristocracy before being transformed into an elegant five-star resort in 1873. After 150 years of catering to an endless array of famous guests wishing to immerse themselves in “la dolce vita,” Vila d’Este stands as an example of blending tradition and modernity to create absolute luxury.
Palm Beach Style:
THE ARCHITECTURE AND ADVOCACY OF JOHN AND JANE VOLK
In the 1920s, American royalty wanted to establish a winter retreat and show off their newfound wealth. Building grand homes inspired by European palaces, they created one of the world’s most famous resort towns. Commissioned to design over 2,000 projects during his sixty years of practice, John Volk’s legacy as one of the “big five” architects of Palm Beach, can now be seen on almost every street.
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events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 8TH
41st Annual ASICS Los Angeles Marathon
Starting Line: Dodger Studium, 100 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles | 7:00 AM
The Los Angeles Marathon returns with its iconic 26.2-mile course, taking runners through L.A.’s most vibrant neighborhoods and landmarks, from Dodger Stadium to the finish line at Century City’s Avenue of the Stars. The world-class race famously runs straight through Brentwood’s San Vicente Boulevard, offering a front-row spectator experience for the community, whether participating, cheering on loved ones or lining the route. lamarathon.com
MARCH 13TH
Dorothee Schumacher Spring 2026 Trunk Show at Permanent Vacation
Join Permanent Vacation in Brentwood Village for an exclusive trunk show featuring an expanded Spring 2026 selection from Dorothee Schumacher, the modern luxury fashion house known for elevated femininity and impeccable tailoring. A brand specialist will be on site for styling and fit guidance. permanentvacationshop.com
MARCH 14TH
Selected Shorts: Virtue & Vice Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr. | 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
The popular podcast Selected Shorts returns to the Getty with short fiction performances inspired by the museum’s new Virtue & Vice exhibition of early modern drawings—works once created to teach moral lessons (and sometimes to tantalize). Hosted by author Meg Wolitzer, with actors of the screen and stage bringing humorous and poignant tales of saints, sinners and everyone in between to life. getty.edu
MARCH 19TH
CHLA Shopping Event at Capitol x Irene Neuwirth
Capitol x Irene Neuwirth, 225 26th St., Suite 38A | Time TBD
Visit the Capitol boutique at Brentwood Country Mart for an evening shopping event supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles during its annual Make March Matter campaign. Hosts and additional details to be announced. Funds benefit the patients and families that CHLA serves. shop-capitol.com; chla.org
MARCH 19TH-22ND
Jacob Jonas The Company: Keeping Score
BroadStage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica | Various Times
Santa Monica-born choreographer Jacob Jonas makes his long-awaited BroadStage debut with Keeping Score, a raw and immersive dance trilogy inspired by the journey of healing before, during and after illness. Across three performances over four days, the work explores themes of trauma, endurance and renewal through visceral movement and symbolic physicality, offering a cathartic experience that engages both body and emotion. broadstage.org
MARCH 26TH
Soulful Seder 2026
Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Challah & Soul hosts its Second Annual Soulful Seder, bringing together diverse communities for an evening of food, storytelling and music centered on the shared traditions and histories of Jewish and Latin cultures. The night features guest chef speaker Sandra Gutierrez, a nationally recognized food historian and expert in Southern Regional and Latin American cuisines. challahandsoul.org
Eco-Inspired Turf Systems
Eco-inspired and cool by nature, Cocoturf delivers a synthetic turf system that looks and feels remarkably real while staying up to 40° cooler on average. Made in the USA, PFAS-free, antimicrobial and built to last, it offers beauty without compromise. With in-house expertise across residential and commercial projects, pet-friendly yards, custom putting greens and more, Cocoturf brings sustainable, stunning curb appeal to every outdoor space.
EMBERPROUSA.COM
Ultimate Defense
In a community like Brentwood—where homes are not just residences but legacies—the growing reality of wildfire risk has reshaped how homeowners think about protection. Ember Pro was founded on a simple but urgent belief: homes don’t have to burn down. “We exist to give properties the best possible chance to survive,” says Jim Sprouse, CEO of Ember Pro. “That means protecting not just a structure, but the investment, memories and lifestyle tied to it.” Built on deep wildfire science and hands-on execution, Ember Pro offers elite fire-hardening services designed for clients who expect precision, discretion and real results. “We’re not a vendor,” Sprouse adds. “We’re a mission—one built on urgency, integrity and relentless focus.” Here, he breaks down how the process works.
HOME ASSESSMENT
Every Ember Pro engagement begins with a comprehensive wildfire assessment. Certified specialists walk the property, evaluating vulnerabilities and exposure points before developing a tailored mitigation plan. “Knowledge is the first line of defense,” Sprouse explains. “You can’t protect what you don’t fully understand.” The goal is clarity—giving homeowners a roadmap grounded in data, not fear.
INSTALLING WILDFIRE DEFENSE SYSTEMS
From ember-blocking barriers to exterior suppression systems, Ember Pro designs and installs state-of-the-art defenses that activate when they matter most. “Fire season is no longer just one season,” says Sprouse. “Our job is to help homes stand a fighting chance year-round.” Each system is customized and seamlessly integrated, preserving both aesthetics and function.
VENT HARDENING AND EMBER SEALING
Wind-blown embers remain the leading cause of home ignition during wildfires. Ember Pro addresses this head-on by reinforcing vents, crawl spaces and structural weak points with ember-resistant materials. “Those tiny sparks cause enormous loss,” Sprouse notes. “Keeping embers out is one of the most impactful steps a homeowner can take.”
SEASONAL SPRAY SERVICE
During peak wildfire months, Ember Pro offers an eco-safe seasonal spray designed to reduce ignition risk on vulnerable surfaces like decks, fencing, mulch and wood features. Applied by trained professionals, the treatment adds an extra layer of protection without compromising the surrounding environment.
HOA AND COMMUNITY IMMUNITY PROGRAMS
For Ember Pro, wildfire resilience is not just individual—it’s collective. Through HOA and neighborhood programs, the company helps communities prepare together. “When entire neighborhoods act in coordination, survival rates go up,” says Sprouse. “Community immunity protects everyone.”
