Westside Neighborhoods

The city of Los Angeles is comprised of many neighborhoods – each with its own charm and special features. Here, we’ll explore three areas of the Westside - Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and Westwood - and see what makes them unique. While close in proximity, they offer different experiences to both residents and visitors.

Brentwood A quiet residential neighborhood, Brentwood is known for its celebrity residents and blocks of beautiful tree-lined streets with exceptional homes. A fairly walkable area (as walkable as one gets in LA), the area is also known for its quaint boutiques and cafes. Brentwood Country Mart is a local shopping center, showcasing restaurants, clothing shops, health and wellness, and home décor stores. Brentwood is also home to the Getty, an art museum with two branches - Getty Villa and Getty Center. After you’ve spent the morning window shopping at Brentwood Country Mart and sampling the treats, head over to the Getty to enjoy some art, architecture and gardens.   

Pacific Palisades Another residential neighborhood, Pacific Palisades calls Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean neighbors. Some key features of this area include the Will Rogers State Historic Park, the Palisades Village, and, of course, the coast. Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Will Rogers State Park includes trails for hiking and horseback riding, areas for picnics, as well as tours of Will Rodgers’ historic ranch house. The Palisades Village is the newest addition to the area – an outdoor entertainment complex that includes retail shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. There are even residences on the grounds, so you can live there, too! And finally, access to the Pacific Ocean and local beaches is what make Pacific Palisades a sought after zipcode.

Westwood A residential and commercial neighborhood, Westwood is comprised of the UCLA campus and the historic Westwood Village. While the majority of those who live, work, study and play here might be students, there is more to do and see than just the beautiful UCLA campus. The Westwood Village is block after block of restaurant, bar, coffeehouse, ice cream shop, clothing retail stores, etc. There is something to suit everyone’s pallet and style. The Village Theater is most notable for hosting big movie premieres on this side of the country. You’ll often see celebs and entertainment types here on the weekends, promoting their latest films. Whether for a quick power lunch, or a leisurely weekend stroll, Westwood is the go-to for students, 9-5-ers, stars and tourists. 

Do you have a favorite neighborhood? 

Pasadena: Art, Architecture, and History

Pasadena is a neighborhood in Los Angeles with both modern and historic qualities. Old Pasadena is known for its Victorian and art deco style buildings, rich with architectural detail. Modern art can be found in the Norton Simon Museum, located on Colorado Boulevard – which also plays host to the annual Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. There is so much history here, so let's get started. 

Norton Simon Museum Originally founded as the Pasadena Art Institute, then the Pasadena Museum of Modern Art, it is now known as the Norton Simon Museum, and features a combination of Mr. Simon’s private collections with that of the Institute's. The museum features European and Asian modern art, a sculpture garden, events, as well as films, lectures, and even art classes. One thousand works from over twelve thousand pieces in the private collection are currently on display. The museum doesn’t just display the art pieces; they curate curriculum in the form of courses and performances in order to further explore the significance of the art on display. I would definitely recommend this museum next time you are in the area. The first Friday of each month boasts free admission from 5-8pm!

                                                          Pasadena Convention Center

Old Town Old Town Pasadena is over twenty blocks of shops, eateries, and cafes, and features commercial space and residences (centrally located in and adjacent to Old Town). Historic charm combines with modern-day amenities to create a quaint, yet vibrant neighborhood. Streets are bustling with boutiques and bistros, and tree-lined sidewalks make for the perfect backdrop. Weekends are always busy, but it never feels too crowded to enjoy all the character and history of the buildings. Venture out a few blocks to the Pasadena City Hall to see an example of the breathtaking architectural movement from the 1920s. Specks of that style are still featured in buildings throughout the city. 

Rose Bowl/Rose Parade The first Tournament of Roses parade and games were held in 1890. The Rose Parade has been held on January 1^st of every year since, with massive floats adorned with real flowers still parading down famed Colorado Boulevard. On the same day, the Rose Bowl Game, featuring collegiate football, is held at Rose Bowl Stadium. In addition to hosting college football, it has hosted sell-out concerts, World Cup finals, special movie screenings, flea markets, and so much more. The traditions set over a hundred years ago still continue to this day, and allow those living in and visiting Pasadena to celebrate and enjoy! 

What's your favorite thing to do or see in Pasadena? 

Post-holiday Home Décor

Now that we’re a few weeks into the new year, and all of the holiday décor is neatly stored away until the following season, your home may feel a bit empty and bare. But, it doesn’t have to. You can style your home for the winter season with the following tips.

Transitional Pieces  You don’t have to put away all of your holiday decorations. Some seasonal staples can still be used to decorate your home long after Christmas. Greenery, such as plants in large vases, can help fill in the gap of Christmas trees or poinsettias. Woodsy items, like logs and pine cones, can bring the outdoors in. Fake snow and snow globes can give your end tables winter vibes. Wreaths adorned with blues and whites can still hang on your door. Think of what makes you think of winter, and use that in your home décor plans.

Pops of Color  Cool tone browns, grays, blues and whites are the typical colors used in winter décor. But why not add some individuality to the usual color scheme? Subtle pops of color, like blush pink or mint green, can add some interest to an otherwise monotonous palette. Using different shades of the same color, such as dark and light blues or grays can add dimension to whatever you’re decorating. For example, if you’re adding a dark blue throw blanket to your couch, add some light blue pillows for contrast. Gradient or hombre tones are still trendy and can give your space a personalized look.

Focal Point  Instead of decking out the entire house, you can focus on just one room or space. Pick a focal point, such as a large window, fireplace, or foyer, and just decorate that area. That way, you’re not overwhelmed and your entire home doesn’t have to be re-decorated, following the holiday season. Fill your fireplace with logs and candles to give it a cozy vibe. Add fluffy blankets and pillows to a built-in window seat, and use fake frost on windows for a cool, snowy effect. Christmas lights can be year-round lights both in and outside your home. Hallways or foyers are great places to add cool frames, artwork, or decorative items, and can easily be swapped out with the changing seasons. Pick your spot and go all out!

What’s your favorite way to decorate your home post-holidays?