Keep your eye on César Giraldo. The designer is quickly gaining a reputation as one of Los Angeles’ most innovative and in-demand creatives. He recently completed two important midcentury projects: an East Coast residence by architect Rufus Nims and an L.A. house by architect Eugene Kinn Choy. (The latter was photographed by Julius Shulman but you’ll have to wait to see the restoration.) At the moment, César is also working on a furniture collection with Cuellar Stone and an outdoor furnishings and accessories line with Tidelli. And while Medellín, Colombia, may be home, after more than fifteen years in the City of Angels, he’s an Angeleno at heart. What are a few of his favorite spots around town? Read on. (Follow him @cesargiraldodesign to learn even more.)

Arts & Culture

I love the Fahey Klein for 20th-century and contemporary fine art photography, one is never visually disappointed there. ["Matthew Rolston, Hollywood Royal: Out of the School of Los Angeles" opens on March 1st. Shown above is George Michael, Hand, London, 1986.] And I love Blum & Poe for established, contemporary world-class artists.One of my passions is identifying emerging artists that I believe will be hot, so I frequent a lot of galleries that represent newer artists. There are many really interesting ones downtown.Summers are very exciting in Los Angeles, too. The city is buzzing with great energy and there are many concerts with amazing DJs and musicians. You’ll often find me at the Hammer Museum, dancing at one of their events.  

Finding Wellness 

I hike daily. I use this time to meditate, get centered and develop my creative ideas. if I don't do it, I feel off. I consider the mountains a spectacular, majestic gift from the city to its residents.  

The Perfect Meal 

Church & State in the Arts District, which I’ve been going for years. I love everything on the menu but I always order the pork belly. It’s out of this world! Little Dom’s in Los Feliz is another favorite. Eating their rice balls with a glass of wine is one of my most enjoyable experiences—my trip to the moon. 

Feeds to Follow

Nowness: It represents the best of my passions all in one place: art and design, fashion, music, culture, food and travel.

Somewhere I would Like to Live: The images of architecture are absolutely stunning. The name says it all!

The Good Old Dayz: When I need to immerse myself in amazing European designs from the past, this is where my eyes go.

Portrait of César by Judith Orr Photography