You See LA: Fall 2021
The fall quarter is coming to a close, and winter break is just around the corner. For those of us staying close and looking for something to do in Los Angeles, we have some great suggestions for you curated by the dean’s office strategic communications student team, who weigh in on their favorite places to explore and unwind in the City of Angels. In this edition of “You See L.A.,” we offer you five places to visit during the holiday break.
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Skylight Books
Located in the shadow of Griffith Park and the observatory, Skylight Books is an independent bookstore serving the historic Los Angeles neighborhood of Los Feliz. Upon entering the location, you are greeted by a huge tree growing in the middle of the store and may cross paths with the store’s friendly wandering cat. Minutes melt into hours amid the quiet, calming glow and colorful shelves of the store. Skylight Books boasts a smartly curated collection of literary bestsellers, new releases, and hidden gems, as well as an eclectic and expansive selection of art books, graphic novels, local zines and knick-knacks. – Maya Lu, (‘22, design media arts) storyteller-in-residence
Skylight Books, 1818 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA
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Yamaguchi Bonsai Nursery
Yamaguchi Nursery is nothing like the Home Depot backlot garden center you may be familiar with, but rather, a goldmine of rare plant species and preserve of thousand year old bonsai trees hidden in plain sight. Despite an opulence of flora suitable for both indoors and out (their houseplant greenhouse is my favorite!) they maintain reasonable price points for all their plants. Even if you don’t fancy yourself a suitable plant parent, the nursery functions as an outdoor gallery that’s perfect for a brief stroll before grabbing a bowl of ramen or udon in the surrounding Sawtelle neighborhood. – Lauren Cramer, (‘22, design media arts) designer-in-residence
Yamaguchi Bonsai Nursery, 1905 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
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Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building is a timeless architectural building with open-cage hydraulic elevators, wrought iron balconies and amazing marble staircases. It has a beautiful skylit atrium which allows great natural light into the space. You can walk through the archway entrance where you’re greeted with wood, iron, and brick, which is a sight to behold. It might look familiar to those who have watched Blade Runner as the zigzagging staircases were part of the film. There’s also a great new cocktail bar inside to go to after you're done gawking at the architectural marvel. – Jenny Lee, (‘24, M.Arch) strategic communications assistant
Bradbury Building, 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
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Hauser & Wirth
Located in the heart of the Arts District, Hauser & Wirth is a free gallery and communal art space occupying the Globe Mills Complex, a cluster of historic industrial grain buildings. This provides a unique setting for artistic exploration across a variety of media, from painting to sculpture to performance. Afterwards you can either enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant Manuela, or grab a brat and pint at Wurstküche just around the corner. – Gavin Aleshire, (‘22, architectural studies and biology) photographer-in-residence
Hauser & Wirth, 901 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
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Village Well Books & Coffee
Of the little joys I have found in LA, coffee shops have been a highlight of my time here in this city. If you are someone who is always looking for new cafes to just enjoy time or get some work done, Village Well is for you. Personally I believe it is a more intimate version of Barnes & Noble, a quieter yet pleasing ambiance to be in. Out of the many LA stops I’ve checked out, I constantly return to this specific location as they offer a place for book lovers and lattes in one. At Village Well, you can try their variety of yummy plates and/or coffee. Alongside their seating section, there is a row of bestsellers, cookbooks, art features, and historical novels that could111 be your book of the month. As the holidays are on their way, this place is a perfect stop to get coffee with a loved one or pick up a gift on your way out. – Lulah Balde, (‘24, public affairs) social media assistant
Village Well Books & Coffee, 9900 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
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