Vibrant Retreat

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From a distinctive setting to carefully chosen pieces, our homes say a lot about who we are.
The Welcome Home series is our chance to ask inspiring people how they created a space they love.
 

Cult LA designer Beatrice Valenzuela appreciates small pleasures, from long baths—cocktail in hand—to making
meals for friends and family. “I love to cook for many hours when possible while listening to a great book or inspiring music,”
says the Mexico-born mother of two.  

Valenzuela’s relaxed, dolce vita outlook permeates the LA home she shares with her partner, designer Ramsey Conder, and kids Astrid and Dimitri, as well as two dogs.

“It has all the comforts we love without being too precious.” Alive with colour and texture, the space is an ode to food, family, and travel.

How would you describe your home?

Our home feels like a treehouse for grownups. It’s on a hill surrounded by trees and a great view of the sunset.

What do you like best about it? 

My kitchen and our outside deck, especially around golden hour when they are both engulfed by the most radiant light. 

Where do you find inspiration?

Most of the things I design come from the need for something I desire and I’m not finding elsewhere. I’m so specific in my ways and always want my objects to fulfill a function but also be beautiful and comfortable.

What do you like about your Sundays pieces? 

They are built to last and age beautifully, with a great sense of what is necessary without too much else that doesn’t belong.

Do you have a favourite piece of furniture? 

Our modular green quilted sofa. It’s firm but soft to the touch, and it fits the four of us perfectly. We can sprawl out and watch a film on our projector all cuddled up. 

What has running your own brand taught you? 

To cherish my colleagues and collaborators. Building beautiful relationships with them based on mutual respect and kindness makes working together so full and has long-lasting rewards.

Branzino Wrapped in Fig Leaves
RECIPE

Branzino Wrapped in Fig Leaves

Of the many dishes I love to cook for my friends, I often find myself returning to this branzino filled with lemon and herbs and wrapped in fig leaves from our tree. It is such a beautiful and poetic dish—perfect to enjoy on a languid evening filled with good drink and conversation.

How to Make it:

Start by rinsing your fish in cool water and patting it dry with paper towel. Douse it in olive oil, season it with sea salt and pepper, and fill it with lemon rounds and fresh herbs, as well as a few garlic and onion slices. Rinse your fig leaves and wrap your fish with care, then tie it all together with cotton twine like a perfect little parcel.  

Drizzle once more with olive oil and grill for 6–15 minutes depending on the size of your fish. When it’s ready, cut the twine and enjoy with roasted tomatoes and a fresh seasonal salad.  

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