Hansel and Gretel in California and stylishly excentric secret stays

An enchanting fairy-tale village at the Northern Californian coast, French vintage design in the middle of Melrose Avenue and paintings that share wisdom with a famous Leonard Cohen song... What caught my eye recently and kept lingering in my mind.

EXHIBITION: Made in LA

Los Angeles as an art hotspot is endlessly fascinating, especially when you're born and raised in Europe. The freshness and vibrancy of this relatively young city lend a distinct twist to its art scene, which is why I found this exhibition so compelling. Artists such as Alonzo Davis, Greg Breda (more on him below) and Patrick Ramirez stood out as prime examples.

Side note: Have a look around in the museum shop, brimming with great art books and knick-knacks (hand)made by local artisans such as the rainbow-coloured handblown glassware by Luz Collection.

More info:

Made in L.A. - Hammer Museum (Los Angeles)

BOOK: Secret Stays: Pioneering Hosts of the New Chic

A unique personality matters to me, not just in people, but also in the places I stay at while travelling. I try to avoid the exquisite blandness of luxury chains, preferring character and originality found in intriguing interiors and compelling hosts. This book is worth exploring for precisely that reason. It celebrates independent owners who imprint their own - sometimes rather eccentric but always stylish - vision on their properties, which more often than not are deeply connected to their family history.

More info:

Book 'Secret Stays: Pioneering Hosts of the New Chic' - Assouline

ARCHITECTURE: Carmel-by-the-Sea

The United States is a melting pot in a myriad of ways, architecture included. During a short road trip we spent the afternoon in this idyllic coastal village and (former) artist's colony. We marveled at the many whimsical storybook cottages dotted across town, build (or inspired by) local architect Hugh Comstock's interpretation of Tudor Revival style in the 1920's and 1930's. Yes, it is definitely a touristy place, however the unique architecture and abundance of art galleries are worth a detour.

ARTIST: Greg Breda

The serene work of this talented California native, who lives and works in Los Angeles, left the deepest impression on me during my recent visit to the Hammer Museum. I was drawn to the contrast between the softness and femininity of his pastel colour palette and floral backgrounds against the angular planes of the painted faces. According Breda, the latter reveal the cracks in our exterior, our ego. Through these fractures, as Leonard Cohen’s famous song goes, the light can enter, bringing more understanding, compassion, and wisdom. A heartwarming inspiration.

INTERIOR DESIGN: Panoplie

Amidst the vintage clothing stores that define a large part of Melrose Avenue, you’ll find this interior design gem. Primarily sourced from France, with a few new pieces that evoke the same vintage charm, Panoplie is a treasure trove for lovers of European (early) 20th century design. My personal favorites when visiting were the Art Deco cabinets and tables by Charles Dudouyt, a 1950s emerald-green dinnerware set by Charles Voltz, and original vases by contemporary ceramicist Morgan Peck.

Panoplie

8279 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles CA 90046