One of my favorite things about the city of Los Angeles is that there are ENDLESS adventures to be had. I’m pretty sure I’ll need to live in this city for years and years to even scratch the surface of everything there is to do, see, and experience! Each and every weekend that I'm in town, I set my intention to discover or experience something new, and the Universe listened and responded to me loud and clear this past weekend. I am so happy to have discovered the Mosaic Tile House in Venice and was able to go on a tour with the lovely homeowners Cheri Pan and Gonzalo Duran. Cheri and Gonzalo are the the most adorable husband and wife in their 70’s, who are very much in love with their art, lives, and each other (Can you say all around #goals?).
Cheri and Gonzalo moved into their house in Venice Beach back in 1994. What was once a regular ol’ bland house on the block is now a colorful and magical oasis, with almost every view-able inch, inside and out, covered in beautiful mosaic tiles of all shapes, colors, and designs. These creative folks started placing colorful mosaics in the bathroom twenty years ago, slowly began adding them into the kitchen cabinets and walls, and then tiles ended up covering almost the entire house, turning it into the most vibrant, unique, and eclectic house I've ever been inside. Every corner I turned, there was something interesting to see. The details and impeccable designs in each room were almost at times overwhelming to absorb. I snapped pictures left and right and fell in love with the intricacy of it all.This home is a reflection of Cheri and Gonzalo's appreciation for art, their deep love for each other, and the colorful, quirky, one-of-a-kind personalities they both encompass. Gonzalo took me on a tour and explained the inspiration behind each area and room, personal stories from him & Cheri's past, and his love and appreciation for art of all forms. As with everything in life, Gonzalo mentioned that the home is a work in progress, and that they make additions to the designs often. This home has become a true treasure for the neighborhood and the community. Gonzalo shared that neighbors will oftentimes leave broken plates, teapots, and other ceramics on their doorstep to add to the home's collection. While on the tour and hearing these stories, Gonzalo's friendly spirit made it feel like I had known him for years and was stopping by to casually say hello. Cheri had the same magical spirit to her. When she told me she was 75 years old, I honestly couldn't believe her! She is so full of life, energy, and adventure. When I asked her what her secret was to aging well and maintaining her vibrant personality, she answered, "Exercise, art, and making love!" This is one of my most favorite adventures I've had in all of my Los Angeles explorations thus far, and I would highly recommend that any local Angelino or tourist pay this special place a visit as soon as possible! Here are the details in a nut shell:
1 Comment
Susan Brown
10/30/2015 08:12:30 am
Wonderful photos of the mosaic tile house! I especially liked the one of the tiles and your white shoes (might make a good painting...) and also loved reading the history of the house, through which came your admiration for the beauty of the work and the people behind it ;)
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EXPLORE YOUR HEART OUTL.A. is an amazing and diverse city full of culture, history, art, nature, museums, and attractions - which results in countless things to do & see - no matter your budget. Time after time I find that when you seek new adventure, you will find it! DISCOVER THESE L.A. LOCATIONS:
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