The Agenda: Sands Hotel & Spa, Garde Summerland, and “Complete Cubes” Exhibit
Author:Lindsey ShookOpening
Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s glam design is on full display at the new Sands Hotel & Spa near Palm Springs. The Sands is the first designer boutique hotel in the exclusive community of Indian Wells, and it makes a bold impression with its bespoke furniture and custom textiles. Originally built in the 1950s, the 46-room hotel got a total reboot earlier this year and Bullard spared no expense. The ultra-feminine desert-rose exterior opens up to a black, white, and gold lobby inspired by the luxe riads of Morocco. The pool is classic Hollywood glamour, and the spa shimmers with glass mosaics and gilded accents.
When: Accepting reservations
Where: 44-985 Province Way, Indian Wells
Restoration
Originally a family home for wealthy merchant James H. Francis, the landmark stone building in Calistoga dating back to 1886 has been carefully restored and transformed into an exclusive luxury inn. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s the only example in Napa County of authentic French Second Empire architecture and has been empty for the past 50 years. Now, the posh inn features contemporary French design by owners Dina and Richard Dwyer. The interior designer and real estate developer were the perfect couple to bring the historic property back to its former glory. With five distinct guest rooms and gardens reminiscent of the French countryside, it’s a private place to escape the city and enjoy a weekend of true R&R.
When: Scheduled to open September 7, 2018
Where: 1403 Myrtle St., Calistoga
Garde Shop, Photo by Sam Frost
Opening
The beloved modern design shop on Beverly Boulevard finally makes the move south towards Santa Barbara, opening its second location in the classic California beach town of Summerland. Housed in a historic 1921 Shaker-inspired barn, the shop is double the size of the original and filled with minimalist finds from around the world, including exclusive Dim Atelier lighting and Ben Storms furniture. Shoppers will also be delighted by new lines of fixtures and hardwares created by founder Scotti Sitz. Love it so much you want to stay? No problem. There’s also Garde House, a one-bedroom rental on the second floor with luxe details like ebonized oak counters by Studio E&R.
When: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday–Saturday; Noon – 5 p.m., Sunday
Where: 2280 Lillie Ave., Summerland
Exhibit
Don’t miss the infamous glass cubes by California minimalist artist Larry Bell, who worked alongside other luminaries from the 60s movement such as Robert Irwin and John McCracken. Bell’s work plays with light, reflection, and volume, and his collection of glass cubes is the perfect embodiment of the subjects he sought to explore. The show at Hauser & Wirth Gallery in L.A. features more than 20 pieces spanning the sculptor’s career, ranging in size from 2 inches to 40 inches. Gazing into these translucent objects is a meditative exercise in shifting perceptions.
When: Through Sun. 9/23
Where: Hauser & Wirth, 901 E. Third St., Los Angeles
Revamp
The classic Nob Hill hotel recently completed a multimillion dollar renovation and has been painstakingly transformed for the modern traveler. The 400-room property has been redesigned with location in mind, featuring amenities that speak to San Francisco’s tech-forward, innovative spirit—from virtual personal training in the fitness center to digital art installations in the lobby. Guest rooms feature Chromecast-equipped HDTVs and multiple USB charging ports and the hotel even has a “tech library” with Jambox speakers, iPads, GoPro cameras, and laptops on loan to guests during their stay.
When: Accepting reservations
Where: 905 California St., San Francisco
