DTLALIFE JULY 2014
www.dtlalife.com
REAL ESTATE: READY TO SAY “I DO”? NEW HOT LISTINGS
DESIGN:
FENG SHUI LOFTS DWELL ON DESIGN
SHOPPING:
SUMMER SPLURGE
ART SPOTLIGHT: EYELINES EXHIBIT
SPORTS:
FIFA MANIA DTLA FITNESS by DES
REVIEW:
TRANSFORMERS 4
PETS:
DOG DAY AFTERNOON NUTRITION TIPS ITCHY?
Natalia Knezevic Photography
DTLALIFE JULY 2014
www.dtlalife.com
REAL ESTATE: READY TO SAY “I DO”? NEW HOT LISTINGS
DESIGN:
FENG SHUI LOFTS DWELL ON DESIGN
SHOPPING:
SUMMER SPLURGE
ART SPOTLIGHT: EYELINES EXHIBIT
SPORTS:
FIFA MANIA DTLA FITNESS by DES
REVIEW:
TRANSFORMERS 4
PETS:
DOG DAY AFTERNOON NUTRITION TIPS ITCHY?
DTLA LIFE JULY 2014 Publisher LA LOFTS Realty ® ULTIMATE LIFE LIVING, LLC 548 S Spring Street #109 Los Angeles, CA 90013 2`13 626 5433 www.laloftsrealty.com Editor in Chief Alex LiMandri, alex@laloftsrealty.com Associate Editor Tiffany Gatto, tiffany@laloftsrealty.com Contributing Writers Cinnia Finfer - Retail & Fashion Tiffany Gatto - Real Estate Jim White - Community Petra Wright - Art Janene Zakrajsek - Pets Dr Eve Flores DVM - Vet Dr Leia Castaneda - Vet Juliane Pease - Design Tom Ferda - Sport Lori Tierney - Wellness Des Grisham - Fitness Photographers Natalia Knezevic, www.nataliakphoto.com Zane Levitt, www.zanewlevittphotography.com Art Director Alex LiMandri Editor Peter Badillo, pjbadillo2005@yahoo.com
www.dtlalife.com
FROM
THE EDITOR Summer is the best time to enjoy the city and to use the Rooftop pool of your building or locale establishment. Think NYC; in Downtown LA, pools are rare and lucky residents seem to reconnect to friends that enjoy outdoor fun in the middle of the city by sharing their outdoor spaces and pools with you! The most iconic private resident pool in Downtown LA is for sure located on the roof of the Eastern Columbia Lofts and is probably the hardest one to have access to. In the Arts District, there is a private resident pool at Barker Block, which also enjoys a fantastic view of the skyline to be appreciated while you are refreshing yourself in the water. If you don’t yet own your own loft or know any of the owners in those buildings, another option is to have drinks and relax by the pools of one of the great hotels that offer their guests food and cocktails while you lounge and enjoy the view from the pool. The Standard hotel is known for its great weekend pool parties, and the plunge basin of the ACE hotel gets you a first class pass to mingle with the trendsetters and movers and shakers visiting DTLA. How about a visit the Ritz Carlton at LA LIVE where you can have an overnight getaway with access to their roof pool or spa? You have plenty of options to choose from but one piece of advice; don’t try to sneak in without authorization to respect the privacy of the residents and their guests. (Think Samantha and Sex and the City, you fans of the show know what I am talking about!) If you don’t have a pool in your building and your lease is up, contact our team and we will make sure to find you the perfect new place for lease or to buy where you can enjoy the amenities all year long. Best, Alex Alex LiMandri - Editor in Chief @alimandri @laloftsrealty alex@laloftsrealty.com www.dtlalife.com
Ace Hotel Pool Deck
Photo: Jim Simmons, jimsimmonsphotography.com
Photo courtesy of Killefer Flammang Architects
www.kfalosangeles.com
LET’S TALK ABOUT Buying your first home, are you ready to say, “I do”? by Tiffany Gatto
Zane Levitt Photography
For most people buying a home can be the biggest financial decision of their life and can be as stressful as finding a lifetime mate. In order to take the walk down the church or bank aisle you must really decide that you are making a sound and well thought out decision. Let’s think about renting like dating. You get to try on your potential long term mate to see if they fit well, follow orders, clean up after themselves and after some time together whether or not this person is someone you can stand to wake up to every morning- marriage, not so much. Let’s batten down the hatches people because you are in for the long haul if you don’t stay in it to win it, potentially you can lose half of your assets. Now the thought of buying your first home can be similar in you are afraid to choose the wrong neighborhood, the wrong view, the wrong number of bedrooms, pay to much or potentially face another real estate crash and see half of your potential assets simply disappear. In the DTLA market, real estate took just as good of a hit as the rest of the country. Lofts formally selling for $750,000 became $325,000 overnight. At some points there were foreclosed properties selling for just $99,000! Buying in DTLA was a steal and those of you who decided to be unfaithful to your current home by selling or foreclosing ended up at a substantial loss. However, for those of you who stood steadfast and pushed that real estate mistress away, the market in DTLA has now recovered to precrash pricing and above AND you are now in a position of profitability. Homes that were selling for $200,000 in 2011 are now closing at record prices of $550,000. Moral of the story, hang on to your wife or your property. Mistresses like real estate cycles are pretty hard to predict. Today the New York Time’s says the most expensive areas in the USA like New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles have seen record increases in home values and continue to rise. For those of us in DTLA paying rental prices only second to Santa Monica buying becomes more and more feasible even with higher prices as the investment in your home and mortgage can benefit you in the long run, big time. Of course, when calculating a home purchase you must remember things like property taxes, repairs, parking and homeowner’s associations (in condo and gated communities). My best advice when thinking about saying “I Do” and buying your first home is align yourself with a group of professionals who are experts in their field and on your side. Make sure they are familiar with the neighborhood you love, have preferred partners, are great negotiators with great reputations and ready to go through the stepby-step process of buying your home. The decision will be a lot easier when you have a “village” of professionals working you through the entire process. Feel free to call LA LOFTS Realty and speak to a real estate professional to help you buy our sell your home. For a free consultation, call or email, tiffany@laloftsrealty.com - 213.6265433 for more information. Tiffany Gatto LA LOFTS Realty ® 548 S Spring Street #109 Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 626 5433 tiffany@laloftsrealty.com www.laloftsrealty.com
Photo credit: Andrew Cooper
LET’S ROLLOUT! by Peter Badillo
Photo credit: Industrial Light & Magic / Paramount
TRANSFORMERS Age of Extinction
It is a well known fact that Transformers has undergone changes and expandable growth over the last decade. With the launch of the Cinematic release in 2007, Transformers has evolved into the big screen and captured the attention and love of long-standing fans, movie goers, and new fans alike. Soon after that in 2009, the sequel was released onto the big screen, causing uproars of excitement as they watched their favorite Autobots back and defeating Decepticons. A third installation of the Cinematic Series released in 2011, once again, giving fans another opportunity to experience Transformers on the big screen. Each film focused on the importance of human lives, as the Autobots struggled and fought to keep the protagonists alive. With each movie, the audience saw similar antagonists in all three movies, Decepticons and other Alien Robot groups. On June 27th, 2014- We were treated to a whole new Transformers experience. With a new cast, and new theme, there was something very different entirely that captured the audience’s attention almost immediately. What was seen was not the usual Autobot versus Decepticon conflict; instead, humans were responsible in playing the lead role of antagonists. The greater threat of the human protectors was humans themselves. With the hunting of the Autobots in the background, we were introduced to the protagonists. Mark Wahlberg stepped up and took the shoes of the leading role, and delivered a mix of superior acting, strong vocalizations, and of course, outstanding feats of physically demanding action sequences.
The suspense was perfectly built up, as it led up to the large scaled battle. Fans of the series will not be disappointed with this brilliant homage to both the comics and the several animated series not only with the Dinobots, but also some of the enemy robots such as Galvatron and Lockdown. The sequences were superb; high volumes of explosions, robot on robot battle, even human on robot battles were fought, as Mark Wahlberg’s character, Cade Yeager, finds himself a way to actually fight back and help out during some of the battles. Nevertheless, the experience was adrenaline pumping, and one couldn’t help but groan as matters became worse for both our heroes; the human protagonist group, and our amazing Autobots. Overall, it was the theme that was consistently being reminded to the audience; the importance of human choices, and human life. The conflict began with the choices that the antagonist group made to hunt down all Transformers alike. There were consequences of those choices, and even those who decided upon them for their reasons even had chances to redeem themselves by correcting their mistakes. It seemed that the movie in itself was an attempt to make the audience more involved in this experience than some care to realize, as choices we make in life can easily relate to the realization of the mistake that was made. It cannot be emphasized enough that sometimes, people want a second chance to make the right decision. Redemption can only be won through struggle, and Stanley Tucci’s character had to
go through a plethora of gunfire, explosives, and physical exhaustion to finally be redeemed. In the end, Transformers: The Age of Extinction, offered more than a movie about giant robots; it offered a slice of life, a second chance for some fans to look at this Cinematic series a new way after previous installments. This reviewer thoroughly enjoyed the film from the well played jokes, classic one-liners, and yes… even Optimus Prime’s speech, though it may have seemed he was talking to the audience more than to the Autobots. That’s only one interpretation. If the film does get a sequel, I will hope that it followed the formulas that this title had, but until then, I await this title to be released to own on DVD and Bluray formats. - Peter Badillo
© 2014 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. HASBRO, TRANSFORMERS, and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro. © 2014 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.
A Full Service Salon Specializing in Dry Cutting & Organic Beauty Products
curt darling salon, 440 s. main st. dtla 90013 curtdarlingsalon.com 213.426.4000
You know you want it. It beckons you from the store window every time you walk by. Don’t fight it. Give in! Life is short. So is summer. Remember, a splurge is good for the soul. Here are some of DTLA temptations we discovered and had to share with you.
SUMMER SPLURGE by Cinnia Finfer
On a cool summer night, Alejandro Rodriquez’s midnight blue suede Moto Jacket ($ 875.00) is irresistible. Warning: If you put this on, you may never take it off!
Beautiful FĂźl 107 W 5th Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 614 6861 www.beautifulful.com
Buttons & Bows 48 S Spring Street #112 Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 622 0648 www.buttonsandbowsla.com
It’s as simple as this: Phillip Lim netted boots ($225) + Mettle Fair Trade show cuffs ($168) = nonstop attention. It’s as simpleButtons as this: & Bows Phillip Lim netted 548 S Spring Street boots #112 ($225) + Mettle Fair 90013 Trade Los Angeles, CA show cuffs ($168)= nonstop 213 622 0648 attention. www.buttonsandbowsla.com
Be the talk of the party in periwinkle lace with contrasting cobalt leather collar by Self Portrait of London. ($488)
Pale Violet 650 S Spring Street
 Los Angeles, CA 90014 213 422 2099 www.pale-violet.com
Nothing says you mean business like a fi e r c e h a n d b a g . F U R L A’s E l i s a b e t h satchel in Magnolia ($448) will do the trick.
Brigade LA 510 W 7TH Street Los Angeles, CA 90014 213 623 0013 www.brigadela.com
Now THIS ought to get his attention. Claudette’s sporty “True Blood” Bra and Pantie set ($55/$20) is sure to take it to the next level.
Las Tres Luxury Lingerie 111 W 7th Street R9 Los Angeles, CA 90014 213 989 2304 www.latresluxurylingerie.com
The Napsack by Poler ($130) -- it’s a jacket, it’s a sleeping bag, it’s frigging perfect for a music festival, the beach or pulling an all-nighter on the top of your building.
Sub Urban RIOT 111 W 7th Street R 1 Los Angeles, CA 90014 213 689 3271 www.suburbanriot.com
BUZZ Wine and Spirits 460 S Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 622 2222 www.buzzwinebeershop.com
Buzz’s XXX shelf has the best of the best red wines of the week. ($30-$100/bottle) Impress your boss, treat your friends, enjoy your life.
This is the summer you finally release your inner artist. Stocking up on Fabriano blank stapled sketchbooks of acid free paper (L $5.49/S$3.79) is the easy part. Deciding which pencils, pens, pastels, or markers you’ll use, could take some time.
Raw Materials 436 S Main Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 627 7223 www.rawmaterialsla.com
Jena Priebe individually refurbishes and reengineers vintage radios. The finishing touch for a fabulous loft. This 1937 Zenith standing radio with magic dial is almost ready. ($3,000).
Fold Gallery & Curio Shop 453 S Spring Street - Ste M7
 Los Angeles, CA 90013 818 254 9197 www.folddtla.com
Melissa McClure’s 18 K gold Double Helix cuff bracelet will take everyone’s breath away. ($10,500.)
Guerilla Atelier 821 E 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 310 365 2194 www.guerillagalleries.org
A Nikori Folding Chair ($495) has it all: great curves, rich colors and so very built-to-last‌it might just outlive you!
Tanner Goods 860 S Broadway
 Los Angeles, CA 90014 213 265 7480 www.tannergoods.com
PETS by Janene Zakrajsek
All Pet Food is Not Created Equal. Feeding your pets is a lot like feeding your family – what they intake has a direct effect on their health, behavior, skin and coat, energy level, and so much more. As the saying goes, 'what you don't know won't hurt you'... well not totally so when it comes to choices in pet food. Do you really know what goes into pet food and how it's actually made? You might be shocked to learn the truth. Choosing the ‘best’ pet foods is not as easy as it seems. The quality and source of ingredients, the food manufacturing practices, and your animal’s individual lifestyle needs should all be considered when determining the right diet. If you are like most dog and cat guardians you may think feeding your pets should be as easy as scooping dry kibble from a bag and pouring it into a bowl, however you may want to think again—and, think outside the bag for a healthier alternative.
Let Them Eat Meat – Go Raw! There is no question that when it comes to feeding our pets (and ourselves!) fresh is best. Contrary to popular belief, what is truly ‘natural’ for our little carnivores to be eating is not a highly processed dry kibble loaded with fillers, inferior protein sources, and ‘scientifically’ rendered, regardless of what the slick brand marketing copy and commercials would have you believe otherwise. Although formulated to be ‘balanced and complete’, if the diet is not actually fresh, how healthy could it possibly be? Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF) diets or Prey-Model diets are not a fad, but a revolutionary back to basics movement focused toward pet health and wellness. Raw food diets, consisting of raw (uncooked) meats, organs, and bones have been advocated as nutritional therapy by Holistic Vets and Nutritionists for decades. A raw diet most closely replicates a cat and dog’s ancestral diet. Although they have been domesticated over thousands of years, biologically and anatomically dogs are still carnivores—cats are obligate carnivores -- and thrive on diets high in animal-based protein and fats. Most commercial diets are high in plant-based protein and carbohydrates, which are unbeneficial to their biological needs and oftentimes a catalyst to a myriad of common health conditions in our pet friends. Did you know that 53% of all dogs and 58% of all cats in the US are overweight/obese according to a recent survey by Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP)? It’s no coincidence that the chronic illness and disease we
face as humans like obesity, diabetes, cancer, and the like resulting in part from our diets of highly processed diets are now affecting our pets in the very same way. Once you go raw, you almost never go back. The benefits to feeding raw include but are not limited to: healthy skin and coat, healthy teeth and gums, smaller, less odorous stool, increased energy and vitality, healthy weight, and an absence of the common digestive and allergy issues often associated with a dry commercial diet. A raw diet is not without some risk and humans need to have a common-sense approach to handling raw meat just as you would for yourself, however for many, the benefits far outnumber the risks. We advocate for diet variety and rotational feeding with the idea that supplements a diet with some raw food is better than none at all. So if the idea of switching to a complete raw diet seems overwhelming, incorporate some raw into your feedings 2-3 times/ week. Once you get started and see the improvement in your animals, you’ll be more confident to ‘go all the way’. It’s natural to have lots of questions, so be sure to do some research (one good place to start is www.rawfed.com) and seek out the balanced raw diets available in a number of proteins and convenient portions from independent pet retailers and some natural grocers. As pet caregivers, we have to choose wisely for those we love because our domesticated friends don't have that choice – the health, happiness, and longevity of your companion animals depends on it!
At Pussy & Pooch, we are passionate about healthy pet nutrition year-round, and work with customers about the types of food (including raw and alternative-raw diets) best for their pets, the difference in the quality of pet food ingredients, learning the variety of ways you can ‘go natural’, and more. Our 6th annual ‘What’s in Their Bowl’ spotlight is taking place now through Aug 11th -- get the natural pet nutrition facts with LOADS of great instore informational and experience-oriented events, free samples, special promo deals, yummy tastings, and a FUN Photo Contest to Win Free Pet Food for Year! Want to learn more? Sign-up for a free 90-min Pet Nutrition class to really learn the truth about pet food and consequently how to become a better pet consumer and advocate for healthy pet lifestyle. See the Class Schedule and RSVP at www.pussyandpooch.com/WinFood Be Well! - Janene Zakrajsek
Pussy & Pooch 564 S Main Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 438 0900 www.pussyandpooch.com
ASK THE
VET
Why is my
pet so
ITCHY?!! by Dr Leia Castañeda
Itchy skin is one of the most common reasons that a dog or cat will come to see us, especially at this time of the year. But exactly what makes a pet itch can vary from animal to animal. Here we will cover the most common culprits of itchy skin in pets. Fleas - everyone hates them and no one thinks that their pet has them. The truth is, especially with the summer fast approaching, if your pet is not on a comprehensive flea control program (one that protects not only against adult biting fleas but flea eggs as well), you probably have fleas on your pet and/or in your home. “But I don’t see any fleas on my pet.” “I haven’t been bitten by any fleas, so I know my pet doesn’t have them.” “I just don’t like using drugs/chemicals on my pet.” And the ever-popular “My pet just doesn’t have fleas.” These are the most common comments from owners to explain why their pet is not on flea control. You can check out last month’s blog for the whole scoop on fleas, but suffice it to say that it is much more beneficial (and way less expensive!) to prevent fleas from ever becoming a problem than to have to react to an infestation. That being said, we kind of get excited when a pet is itchy from fleas because there is a treatment plan so easy and so effective that that pet never has to be itchy again. Food allergies can also cause some pretty intense itch. And again, don’t take this the wrong way but we love, love, LOVE it when pets are allergic to food. If the only thing that your pet is allergic to is a particular food ingredient (and it’s usually a protein, sometimes it’s corn, soy) then all we have to do is avoid that food and they are itch-free! Of course arriving at a solid diagnosis of a food allergies takes time and a lot more effort and will-power than most owners realize. The exclusively food-allergic pet is itchy all year round - there is no seasonality to his itch. (S)he is also typically itchy at certain spots on the body “ears and rears” tend to be the most common sites of itch for food allergies, but sometimes the itch manifests elsewhere. And to discover just what your pet might be allergic to requires a very strict and lengthy diet trial. First we need to slowly transition the pet to a limited ingredient diet that does not contain any protein source that the pet has eaten in the past. These “novel protein diets” are usually kangaroo, quail, and pork or rabbit-based but the most important thing is that it should be something that your pet has never eaten before. Next the diet trial needs to be S-T-R-I-C-T. (S)he can only eat this food and other approved-by-the-vet treats. For example if your pet is on
a duck diet trial, (s)he can not also have the tiny chicken morsel from your dinner from time to time, or some beef liver treats at the vet or even flavored medications (unless they are duck-only flavored). Treats should be duck based - freeze-dried duck hearts would be perfect. Regardless of the diet, peeled baby carrots, chunks of apple and fresh watermelon are usually healthy “legal” treats to give a dog during a diet trial. Lastly this diet trial needs to last at least 6 weeks - most veterinary dermatologists will say at least 8 weeks. And of course the definitive way to nail down a diagnosis of food allergies is to then offer the old proteins back to the pet one by one and watch to see which protein triggers the itch again. Many times the pet improves so much on the novel protein diet that we don’t have a huge need to make the pet itchy on purpose just to arrive at a diagnosis. Atopic dermatitis (aka dog/cat eczema triggered by an environmental allergy) is the most frustrating culprit for itchy skin, by far. How do you control your pet’s exposure to things like dust mites or grass? Nearly impossible! Many atopic pets find themselves at the vet several times a year for skin flare-ups. The most common and effective way to battle these flare-ups is usually with steroids and antibiotics. The steroids will control the itch and inflammation and make the pet more comfortable. The antibiotics will address the secondary skin infections that the pet has usually given him/herself as a result of all the itching. While this mixture of medications is usually very effective, it can eventually take a toll on the body, especially when used frequently. At DTLAvets we offer an environmental allergy blood test that examines the interaction between the pet’s blood and specific weeds, trees, grasses, fungi, and environmental organisms found in the southwest US. A report is generated and based on the results; we can then order customized serums for your pet. These serums come in increasing concentrations and “teach” your pet’s immune system how to deal with those particular allergic triggers. The end result is a pet who flares up less often and therefore needs steroids and antibiotics less frequently. This desensitization process is costly and lengthy, often requiring 6-12 months before an owner notices results. But in a young dog or one who is not a good candidate for steroids and/or antibiotics, it can definitely be worth it. Lastly we can’t forget about those pesky bacterial and yeast infections that often accompany itch, whatever the cause. The importance of addressing these secondary infections cannot be overstated. If you ignore these secondary bacteria and fungi, the itch will absolutely continue, even if you’ve eliminated the primary culprit. Often a mixture of oral antibiotics and/or oral antifungals with medicated shampoos will be used to battle this component of the itch. Itchy skin is frustrating. It’s uncomfortable for your pet. And it’s definitely worth having a meaningful conversation with a vet to create a plan for reducing or eliminating the itch. Call DTLAvets and let us help your pet live in healthier skin!
DTLAvets 333 S Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 213 613 1537 www.dtlavets.com
WHAT
A DAY!
DOG DAY
AFTERNOON AT THE CATHEDRAL
by Alex LiMandri The 8th Annual Dog Day Afternoon at the Cathedral celebrated the four-legged furry friends who help create community in Downtown LA. 1,200 residents and more than a 1,000 dogs were at this annual event hosted by the Downtown Center Business Improvement District and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on Wednesday, July 9th. Every year, this social event includes mingling, costumed participants, and music. Dodger Dogs Ž, snacks, beverages, a full bar and more attendance year after years. Reminding us how much Downtown LA loves dogs, Dog Day Afternoon at the Cathedral is one of the most anticipated event in DTLA. If you missed it this year, find information on the neighborhood website, www.downtownla.com, register for event updates and more to not be excluded of all what our community have to offer.
ART SPOTLIGHT by Petra Wright
Clairfoster Josiah Nicholas Tredway
GDCA celebrates two of DTLA’s own with “EYELINES” - a joint visual exploration by artists Clairfoster Josiah and Nicholas Tredway. The world currently looks to Downtown Los Angeles as the cradle of the next generation of artists… and with good reason. The most promising artistic scene in the country is developing right in front of our eyes. There are gifted artists all around us, but you may not instantly recognize them as such. Instead, you might know them as “The girl who works the night shift at ‘LA Café’ “, or “The barista at ‘Spring for Coffee’ “. “The bartender at ‘The Must’”, or “The guy who delivers for ‘Jason’s wine shop’ “. Most artists walk amongst our midst like mysterious, benevolent vampires… and it takes a single occasion to reveal to you who they truly are: talented and innovative artists. GDCA is proud to provide one of those occasions with “EYELINES”, the July exhibit featuring the collaborative paintings of Clairfoster Josiah & Nicholas Tredway. In the summer of 2012, two of Downtown’s emerging artists, Clairfoster Josiah and Nicholas Tredway, participated in an ArtWalk exhibit at ‘The Medallion’. Each instantly recognized the creative merit of the other’s work, and appreciated the discipline, intuitive intelligence and heart involved in creating a truly singular and recognizable artistic voice. Their mutual respect developed into a friendship, and 2 years later, sitting at “Spring Street Bar”, creative lightning struck: ”What if we joined forces? What if we were to collaborate on a series of canvasses, thereby creating an entirely unique collection, the likes of which has never been seen Downtown before?”
Nicholas Tredway’s works are minimal yet complex, and have been described as “abstract, urban technophile”. They are purposefully two-dimensional explorations, referencing Mayan and Aboriginal patterns, as well as iconic Atari and Nintendo videogame symbols. Tredway’s earliest musings were high-school doodles, which closely resembled tribal prints. Additionally, he was inspired by the ability of video-game designers to create entire worlds with such limited visual language. The dialectic of past and future cultures, the primordial versus the technoinspired aesthetic, still captivates Tredway. It has become the framework within which he explores what he terms a spiritual kinship with Keith Haring and Basquiat. Clairfoster Josiah’s work parallels Tredway’s in nuance, with similar tribal and cultural influences. However, Josiah’s forms and gestures are more organic, as is his methodology. His “feeling versus thinking approach” thrives on the unknown. He creates without preconception and if possible, within one sitting. While the occasional use of spray-paint, or subtle reference to a Wu-Tang Clan symbol, may date back to his early graffiti roots, Clairfoster’s gestures are geometrically inspired. Triangles, circles and squares, says the artist, are the base of everything. Key ingredient in his visual alphabet, are round-edged horizontals that seem to travel like waves. ”Hard edges are boring. They limit your directional opportunities,” says Josiah, “Rounded edges allow you to stay flexible, same as in life“. Once again, art imitates life imitates art imitates life. “EYELINES” will be on view at GDCA Gallery through July 31st, 2014. For more information, please call the gallery sat (323) 309-2875 or go to www.GDCAgallery.com
Two months and 100 plus painting-hours later, they have achieved just that: a visual celebration fusing vastly different styles into singular symbiotic creations, “portraying”, as they say, “one soul on canvass”. Given their stylistic differences, it seemed a bold undertaking. Their approach, as well, could not be more opposite: Tredway is a planner. Josiah prefers to create from a place of not knowing. However, almost instantly the two artists fell into a rhythm. They also discovered how much ideological common ground existed between them. The most important one being their value of process – namely that the journey is more important than the result. “If you want to travel fast, travel alone. If you want to travel far, travel with others” is a favorite quote of Josiah’s that perfectly encapsulates that spirit. The resulting collection of paintings in “EYELINES” could not be a better example of this sentiment. The artists took turns in setting the tone, i.e. creating the base of colors and background patterns for the respective piece. They then handed it over to their partner to complete. The result is an interwoven narrative structure, so complex and compelling, that it reads like a good book - you can get lost in it.
GLORIA DELSON CONTEMPORARY ARTS 215 W 6th Street #115 Entrance on Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 323 309 2875 www.gdcagallery.com
ART BY CINZIA A variety of styles to meet your downtown urban décor July/August original art sale! 50% off original artwork for DTLA residents and business owners. Proof of address req’d Call for a personal tour of Cinzia’s studio at The Petroleum Building
Art by Cinzia 714 W. Olympic Blvd. Suite 725 Los Angeles, CA 90015 213.949.2085 www.ArtByCinzia.com
THE WORLD IS A
SAFE
PLACE by Jim White
LA LOFTS Realty ® gives back and is your partner to help build a vibrant, successful community for all, "We are more than just your Realtors, we are your Neighbors".
Frances & Roger Ridlehoover
In this ongoing section of our monthly online magazine DTLA LIFE, I mentioned that we would continually focus on all the "GOOD" things that are happening in DTLA to address the many challenges that exist within our urban environment. In this month’s section I am going to present you with some examples of how the local community is ‘getting involved’. I would like you to meet Roger and Frances Ridlehoover. They are going to share their story and how they decided to get involved in addressing the social issues that affect all of us in Downtown Los Angeles. For Nonprofit CASA of Los Angeles, Downtowners Are Close For Comfort. Roger and Frances Ridlehoover moved Downtown in 2011, selecting a home in the Historic Core area after living in Manhattan Beach for over 15 years. Their move has allowed them to easily adopt what Frances refers to as “the walking lifestyle,” as they both work within 10 minutes from their building. The change has been a good one, inspiring new friendships with neighbors and a plethora of new favorite eateries, including Baco Mercat, Bar Amá, The Must and Gelateria Uli, among others. “We chose the Historic Core because it’s so centrally located and the area had such a great buzz on the street,” said Roger Ridlehoover.” “Everything we need is right here. Parks, restaurants, stores and anything else I could want. The Music Center is just a few minutes away walking and has become one of our favorite pastimes,” added Frances Ridlehoover. However, living Downtown has also brought the Ridlehoovers closer to an organization that resides close to their hearts: CASA of Los Angeles. Roger and Frances have been involved with CASA for several years, helping the organization in its mission; to mobilize community volunteers to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children in foster care. That help is direly needed, as L.A. hosts the highest number of foster youth in the entire country – over 28,000 kids. CASAs (Court Appointed Special Advocates) often deal with the toughest cases that require special attention beyond what a County social worker can provide. Roger has been a CASA for over a decade and a Board member for the past six years. Frances has been assisting the organization in its development initiatives for five and is poised to take over her husband’s Board position this month. Their involvement with CASA has become one of the most important things in their lives, and in turn, important in the lives of the children they help. “CASA gives people an opportunity to make a big
difference in the life of a youth,” said Roger Ridlehoover. “These kids often move from home to home. They feel like transients and those without help often end up on the streets, homeless. CASA offers one adult who is going to transcend all that change and be with them wherever they go. There will always be a person in their lives to show them someone cares and lead them down the right path.“These children, through no fault of their own, find themselves in difficult life situations,” added Frances Ridlehoover. “They’re removed from the home or family because of neglect or abuse and are forced to deal with it. Having someone there to help is huge – even just to talk and listen. It opened our eyes to how fortunate and lucky our own kids and we ourselves have been. Not all kids are that lucky.” CASA’s offices are in the Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court, which exclusively deals with dependency cases. From Downtown, it’s a 10-minute drive, which makes volunteering a short trek for a meaningful role. The Ridlehoovers aren’t the only CASAs from the area; volunteers & Board members also drawn from the Downtown offices of Wells Fargo, Doubleline, Capital Group and Pillsbury Winthrop in addition to individuals through the region. “We’re about as close as we can be to all the things we enjoy in life, and CASA is at the top of that list,” said Frances Ridlehoover. Roger Ridlehoover, a former economist who has worked downtown since 1984 is now pursuing a new career in landscape architecture. Frances Ridlehoover is a Managing Partner at Jensen + Partners and will join the CASA Board this month. For more information on CASA and learn how you can help, please visit www.casala.org
by Jim White Author THE WORLD IS A SAFE PLACE 213 620 8000 www.laloftsrealty.com www.theworldisasafeplace.com
Ca t hi : 3 2 3 . 9 4 2 . 9 9 2 0 Ma r yAl i c e : 3 2 3 . 9 4 2 . 9 9 2 1
DESIGN
DTLA’s Dwell On Design by Julianne Pease
Natalia Knezevic Photography
One of the great benefits of living in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is its proximity to great events taking place in the downtown area throughout the year. From concerts to shows, festivals and more, there is always something great going on in DTLA. June’s Dwell on Design (DOD) event at the Los Angeles Convention Center was no exception. This multi-day event includes 3 days of exhibitions at the convention center, home tours, and many great events by invitation only. If you happen to live in DTLA, you can come and go as often as you wish, making it possible for you to attend every event that interests you. For those of you not living downtown, there is LA’s Metro Line and the vast expanse of open parking available on the weekend making attending these events easy. The Design team of CM In The City, Cathi Marcoly and Mary Alice Slattery are both DTLA residents and shared some of their thoughts on attending DOD 2014 with us. “We love to have our clients meet us at DOD 2014,” said Mary Alice. “The vast array of furnishings, art and appliances in one location makes it very efficient, and it is always lovely to spend time with our clients,” she added. Cathi, who loves to uncover new artists herself, said we are always impressed by the quality of artists that Dwell attracts. “If you have a client that loves discovering new and unique artists, this event is a great place to come to, have fun, and explore with them.” The DOD 2014 event hosts several panel discussions on various stages throughout the venue. These panels include leaders from design, architecture and related fields. Another fun benefit of attending the event is watching the cooking demos at the kitchen booths. To showcase their high-end appliances, vendors bring in top celebrity chefs to run these demos.
Next year, if you are considering a remodel or a renovation and have not yet engaged a professional designer, Dwell has dedicated several sections to remodeling complete with many hands on resources. In addition to the great resources you can also set up a time for a free consultation with experts at the ASID booth. In speaking with Cathi, she felt that everyone could benefit from attending the classes Dwell offers as well as the expert panels discussions. She said, “The world of design is always evolving and changing, and with the rapid pace of innovation, there are often some fantastic discoveries that are shared.” “Most impressive of these, are the changes taking place in green design and technology,” Cathi added. “An event like DOD 2014 allows you to keep up to date on these trends and innovations in a quick and fun weekend.”
available in some very cool and hip designs. Dwell also had a wonderful outdoor living section this year. There was a fantastic yurt (a portable, bent dwelling structure) sponsored by Sunbrella, lots of great gardening ideas, an Airstream vacation company and more. One of Mary Alice’s favorite booths was Miele. “The vertical indoor herb garden they showcased was a fantastic idea for a loft with no outdoor space,” she said. The next Dwell event will be Dwell on Design in NYC and of course back to LA in 2015. You can go to dwell.com to learn more about Dwell’s upcoming events. Julianne Pease
In addition to discovering new products and designs, attending DOD 2014 allows you to meet with many vendors, showrooms, friends and craftsmen with whom you work throughout the year. “Many of the designer showrooms, and DTLA Realtors hold special events or open houses in downtown, or host a booth at Dwell, like LA Loft Realtors did,” said Cathi. Mary Alice added we always look forward to catching up with and supporting these talented professionals. This year’s Dwell on Design was full of great finds. Most notably, an artist named, Lisa Swerling. Lisa does amazing shadow box art installations of “moments in time”. Another was Dacor, a high-end appliance manufacturer from right here in Los Angeles. It is good to l e a r n t h a t 1 0 0 % o f D a c o r ’s manufacturing, research and development is done in Los Angeles. Another inventive vendor was MySkycart. They repurpose airline beverage carts for various home and office applications. These carts are very creative and functional. Skycart has them
CM DESIGNS info@cm-designs.com 323 942 9921 www.cm-designs.com
Discover Good Design Experience the Dwell Store in person for the first time at Booth 1213 at Dwell on Design, Los Angeles. The cash-and-carry pop-up shop will feature previously unseen designs from around the world for modern living, alongside a daily series of Meet the Designer events.
Booth 1213
FENG SHUI by Lori Tierney
Every Real Estate broker thinks they are the best at representing their clients in either finding the perfect home or selling an existing property. Most are, but in my experience, one firm stands out because they are willing to employ unconventional tactics to close even the most difficult deal. That firm is LA Lofts Realty, in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. I encountered the firm when one of the Partners contacted me to help them with a very difficult property that had been on the market for many months, without a single offer. No amount of open houses, advertising, social media or traditional sales tactics were working. It was time to look into the deeper meaning as to why this loft had not sold. The firm’s Partner, Jim White, called me and offered me the opportunity, through the use of Feng Shui, to provide a consultation for his client to see if, together, we could uncover any hidden blockages of energy that were preventing the loft from selling, Jim arranged the meeting one Saturday afternoon, made the introduction to his client, and left us alone together to see if we could locate the block! The owner, “Mr. B”, was a single gentleman in his midseventies, who was at best, somewhat skeptical of the meeting in the first place. As we talked and broke the ice a bit, he realized that it felt “safe” enough to proceed with the analysis of his property. One of the first things I look for in the home tour is the amount of clutter that may or may not be present, the directional compatibility of the home to the owner’s specific and individual Feng Shui Four Pillars chart, which is used in Traditional Compass Feng Shui, to identify a person’s favorable or auspicious directions (we each have 4) and inauspicious directions (again, we each have 4) Often simple tweaking of directional harmony will create a noticeable shift in a person’s energy and gain the desired result. We talked about what was going on in his life, his family dynamics, work situation as a successful entrepreneur and future goals, which were revealing. He had a daughter that didn’t want him to sell his property, and her energy was “clinging” to the space. Energy is everywhere, whether we have the “gift” of sight to “see” it in motion third dimensionally, or not; it exists. His daughter’s desire to “hang on to the home” and her feelings of entitlement toward the asset, became a factor in blocking the flow of energy brought about by prospective buyers. They would come by, tour the space, like it, yet leave feeling like something was off and move on to another deal. Further discussion led Mr. B to reveal that one of his dreams for the use of the space was to finally have enough room and a single table large enough to hold his entire family for Thanksgiving dinner. We were in late August, so I made a mental note of that wish and intuitively knew that no amount of work we would do
would override this desire. The property would not sell until after the holidays and until Mr. B’s daughter would let go. As we continued to walk the space, I noted that everything was in clean and tidy order, with very little clutter. We agreed to clear some dried flowers in the “wealth position” on the property and relocate some very expensive art that had sharp weapons on it to another location besides the “helpful people” area, replacing it with happier art of people celebrating life together. A small lipstick mirror was placed above the threshold of the bathroom door facing out to help with the circulation of positive chi flow in the space. The bathroom’s location in the wealth corner was not the best for the flow of abundance in general, but cures were implemented to offset this situation including the mirror, keeping the toilet seat down and the addition of a plant above the water closet. The kitchen was our next stop. I have seen many properties that have butcher block knives on the counter, especially in homes with good chefs! I generally prefer them to be put away in the cabinet, which we did here, as the knife is symbolic of “cutting” energy, including the “good things” one is choosing to attract, in this case a buyer for the property. Mr. B by this time was getting into the flow of our time together, and took an active role in smudging the property. This is a method of clearing stagnant energies used by the Native American shamans and now us everyday folk. A white sage wand is lit above an abalone shell and using circular motions, with windows wide open, the space is cleared. After the smudging I used the properties of a special crystal singing bowl to infuse the space with this high vibrational frequency. Mr. B found this step particularly soothing and comforting. It was our way of “sealing” the energetic changes we had created together for his space. When we concluded our time together, Mr. B felt relieved, and armed with some new insights and information to help him with the process of “releasing” his home to the next buyer so he could prepare himself for the next adventure on his own journey. As he closed the door behind me, I knew the home would sell, and it did. I also knew that the timeframe would be after his holiday gathering, which it was. The new owner is thrilled with her new Downtown LA loft and Mr. B is sailing around the world. Much like the sea turtles that swim near his boat with their shell/home on their backs, Mr. B’s new home is the next port on the map of life. Lori Tierney, IIDA Interior Designer and Feng Shui consultant lori@loritierney.net www.loritierney.net
Zane Levitt Photography
FIFA MANIA
HITS DTLA
by Tom Ferda
Put on your nation’s colors and get out your vuvuzelas! The FIFA World Cup finals are right around the corner…literally if you live in DTLA. As the regeneration of downtown spreads like wildfire, sports bars are gaining popularity, providing a day out for urbanites wanting to trade in their sofa for a high top for the day. Angelinos are overflowing the FIFA World Cup bandwagon and with L.A. being such a melting pot every game brings out flag-waving fans decked in their native countries’ colors. Once teams in this major tournament made it past the 1st round into the much coveted “Round of 16” the passion flew off the charts. At that point every FIFA game became as important as an NBA Game 7 or an NFL playoff game with the losers cleaning out their lockers and heading home for a four year wait for another chance to hoist soccer’s Holy Grail. Whatever your choice was, it was certain that it was jammed packed as the Germany team took home the grand prize as they swept through the World Cup. An exemplary team of hard working individuals, dedicated to the sport and teamwork as every match up they faced seemed to be nothing short of spectacular on their part. This victory was well deserved, catching the attention of every fan from day one. Team Germany must be feeling like giants, as their effort has paid off in this final result against Argentina. Great job, boys; take stride in your hard work and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Big Wang’s on 8th and Grand Ave. is a staple spot for condo dwellers and USC students to hunker down over happy hour specials that include deals on drinks and food. This bar has an outdoor sports deck that’s second to none complete with a row of flat screens, a fire pit and high-tops. Two spots that have a local feel coupled with Irish flair are Dublin’s on 7th and Flower St. and Casey’s Irish Pub at 6th and Grand Ave. Dublin’s offers a variety of tap brews and decent eats and Casey’s sets up an outdoor area with a screen to handle some of their inside overflow. If you want to rub elbows with the tourists these are some other choices. Yard House in the LA Live complex has a diverse menu with more than 125 draft beers and a happy hour that runs twice a day. And their half-yard beer glasses make great props for social media selfies. Only downside of YH is the fact that last time we
checked they weren’t playing the sound to the games. Tom’s Urban is the new kid on the block. This joint has gone viral fast, some of that due to its prime location across from Staples Center in the LA Live complex. This two-level place has a ton of flat screens that are great for viewing and an open-air bar on Fig that is great for hanging out and people watching. And don’t forget Hooters. It’s located across from Staples Center near Fig & 12th. Get here early unless you want to stand in line. No menu and ambience description is necessary for this establishment unless you’ve been living in a cave. So toss your remote in a drawer and head out to surround yourself with food, drinks and passion…. one of these local spots would be glad to fill in for your sofa for the day on any game’s occasions.
FITNESS
SEASONAL SESSIONS by Des Grisham
While we dwell in the land of perpetual sunshine, when it comes to exercise Summer better than others! Taking your training outdoors not only adds the element of propulsion but also a dose of vitamin D. Not only does this sun kissed look compliment the skins appearance, the combination also enhances definition of muscle quality. Yes, its true sunscreen must be applied and it is imperative to limit length of exposure...yet a little here and there goes a long way. Always bring water along, not for just the obvious reason of hydration, but having it at hand to avoid any adversity from the sun. You may need some to pour on your body or face in event of over heating or heat index for example. Keep it safe and simple at 35~45 minutes tops. Eat plenty of water packed foods ie: fruits and vegetables, also done by juicing, for additional hydration, fuel and function. So, take it to the streets and run, Sprint, skip, climb, hike, bike, skate, jump and swim. Whatever you are into, keep your head cool and your body temp low and go, go, go, go!!!
Des Grisham Coaching / Personal Training desgrisham.dg@gmail.com 213 570 0532
Zane Lewitt Photography
Real Estate FEATURED LISTINGS 213 626 5433
Alex LiMandri www.laloftsrealty.com www.johnaaroegroup.com CALBRE 01822666
RITZ CARLTON #41J
3 BEDROOMS 3 BATHS 2,144 sf VALET PARKING LISTING AGENT: ALEX LIMANDRI LA LOFTS Realty ÂŽ
$2,600,000 Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If you already are represented by a broker, this is not a solicitation. Availability or photos may not be accurate please check with agent inside for status - Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Alex LiMandri CALBRE# 01822666
HIGGINS BUILDING
#210
STUDIO LOFT 1 BATH 610 sf PRIVATE PATIO LISTING AGENT: ALEX LIMANDRI LA LOFTS REALTY
$449,000 Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If you already are represented by a broker, this is not a solicitation. Availability or photos may not be accurate please check with agent inside for status - Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Alex LiMandri CALBRE# 01822666
RITZ CARLTON #34H
2 BEDROOMS 3 BATHS VALET PARKING LISTING AGENT: Tiffany Gatto LA LOFTS Realty ÂŽ
$1,710,000 Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If you already are represented by a broker, this is not a solicitation. Availability or photos may not be accurate please check with agent inside for status - Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Alex LiMandri CALBRE# 01822666
RITZ CARLTON #31K
2 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHS 1,700 sf VALET PARKING FOR LEASE: $7,000/m FOR SALE: $2,300,000 LISTING AGENT: ALEX LIMANDRI, TIFFANY GATTO LA LOFTS Realty ® JIM JACOBSON CALIFORNIA WEST PARTNERS
$2,300,000 Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If you already are represented by a broker, this is not a solicitation. Availability or photos may not be accurate please check with agent inside for status - Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Alex LiMandri CALBRE# 01822666
ELDORADO LOFTS #608
1 BEDROOM 1 BATH 730 sf LISTING AGENT: Robert McGowan LA LOFTS Realty ÂŽ
$499,000 Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If you already are represented by a broker, this is not a solicitation. Availability or photos may not be accurate please check with agent inside for status - Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Alex LiMandri CALBRE# 01822666
ROWAN LOFTS #609
0 BEDROOM 1 BATHS 880 sf STUDIO LOFT LISTING AGENT: ALEX LIMANDRI LA LOFTS REALTY
$385,000 Broker/Agent does not guarantee the accuracy of the square footage, lot size or other information concerning the conditions or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from Public records or other sources. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of all information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. If you already are represented by a broker, this is not a solicitation. Availability or photos may not be accurate please check with agent inside for status - Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prepared by: Alex LiMandri CALBRE# 01822666