Pasadena

AS SEEN ON COVER OF LUXE MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2025 ISSUE.

Homes that exude strong character often attract like-minded individuals. For a group of Los Angeles creatives in a midcentury modern gem in Pasadena, the 1958 residence—from its grand foyer to the sunken living room with library shelves and a rolling ladder—“evoked an emotional response,” says writer Maisie Culver. Her husband, designer David Imai, felt a similar draw. Their connection deepened upon learning the home was originally built for Lucile and Remy Chatain Sr., famed owners of the L.A. textile company CW Stockwell and creators of the iconic Martinique banana-leaf wallpaper. The design is intricately woven into the local culture, especially through decorator Don Loper’s bold implementation at the Beverly Hills Hotel, where over five miles of the pattern flourish. This iconic print also adorned the Chatains' former bedroom, which felt like a sign for Maisie and David, who cherished Martinique in their previous home. Though lovingly preserved by creative guardians, the house craved a refresh. “It became clear this was a ‘wallpaper house,’ especially after seeing 1960s images,” David notes. Their aim was to restore its former glory, inspired by the Chatains, with the help of interior designer Peti Lau, whose wallpaper creativity impressed Maisie. David notes, “Peti is a daring designer who masterfully blends influences, patterns, and colors.”