César Giraldo, founder and principal designer of César Giraldo Design, was born in Colombia where, as a child, he discovered his love for color and form — the foundational elements of his design philosophy. His journey took him to Iowa, and finally to Los Angeles, the city he always dreamed of calling home. Based in West Hollywood, CA, César works with clients in the Americas and internationally on a variety of residential, commercial and hospitality projects.
César’s poetic approach to the positioning of spaces and objects creates welcoming environments that exude elegance and elevate the human spirit. His design process is deeply personal, building a solid reputation for transforming interiors into luxurious spaces that reflect his clients’ unique personalities and lifestyles. César emphasizes that a completed environment should not only represent visual beauty but must also reflect the essence of the client.
An Architectural Marvel in Bel Air
The design of this home in the Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles, a collaboration between award-winning architectural firm Tag Front and world-renowned interior designer César Giraldo, seamlessly integrates breathtaking canyon views and inviting outdoor spaces. César describes the impressive architecture and stunning views as key inspirations. He says, “To be in a beautiful home of this caliber… feels surreal at times.” Key features include a floating staircase that serves as a sculptural centerpiece, described by César as “the flower of the house,” and a massive outdoor deck offering an expansive area for relaxation and entertainment.
Despite the grandeur of the space, the home is warm and welcoming. Upon entering the home, guests are greeted by a custom fragrance, a collaboration with Parisian perfume house Ex Nihilo, which enhances the welcoming atmosphere with a unique and inviting scent. The home is adorned with carefully curated artwork, including pieces by the renowned Parisian artist Pierre Bonnefille and the young Colombian artist Evelyn Angelica, adding unique artistic touches that resonate with the overall design.
The kitchen is designed for both functionality and socializing. It shares the stage with multiple lounges, a dining area and an outdoor space, making it a central hub for entertaining. Integral to the kitchen are Gaggenau appliances. The clean, classic lines of these appliances blend seamlessly with the kitchen’s elegant aesthetic.
Inspired by California Design
César is deeply inspired by California’s diverse design periods, particularly Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern. He admires the timeless craftsmanship of these styles and enjoys blending vintage elements with modern designs. This marriage of old and new is a hallmark of his aesthetic, creating spaces that are both innovative and timeless. He states, “I love the combination of the old with the new, the vintage with the modern.”
Setting the Standard for Exceptional Customer Service
César is an avid admirer of Gaggenau appliances, working with them exclusively on his projects and in his studio. He says their commitment to customer service exceeds industry standards, “Gaggenau is not just appliances. Gaggenau goes beyond that, which I find fascinating because the support that you get from the company as an interior designer is beyond. No other company does it.”
Other Notable Awards and Projects
In addition to this Bel Air home, César has worked on numerous notable projects. His work on a luxurious residence in Oahu, Hawaii, received an award for Best Home, celebrated for its incredible views and spa-like atmosphere. Another significant project is a grand 18,000 square foot residence, also in Bel Air, for music producer LA Reid, where César’s collaboration extended to Reid’s music offices.
César’s aesthetics can be defined as an ongoing dialogue between luxurious, innovative contemporary designs, and timeless craftsmanship of the past. Heralded by both the Los Angeles Times and Pacific Design Center as a rising design star, his work has been recognized by Architectural Digest, California Home + Design, California Homes, Vogue, Forbes Global Properties and Luxury Home Magazine.
Designer: César Giraldo, César Giraldo Design
