Latest news with #Spanish-style
Los Angeles Times
2 hours ago
- General
- Los Angeles Times
L.A.'s historic Griffith Park Pool won't reopen. Here's the $28-million plan to replace it
The historic Griffith Park Pool, built in 1927 and once the largest aquatic facility in Los Angeles, has been dry since 2020. Now, as summer heats up, residents are learning that it won't be filled again. Instead, the city is laying plans for a $28-million project to demolish it and build two smaller new pools and a splash pad in its place while reconstructing the two-story pool house next door. City officials say they hope to begin the project in summer 2026 and complete it in January 2028. But for now, the city's Recreation and Parks Department website simply lists the pool as 'closed until further notice.' A Bureau of Engineering spokesperson said the city has not picked a builder yet. The new plan marks a sharp turn for a site that was once scheduled for reopening in June 2022. In the run-up to that date, the Eastsider news site first reported, city workers found that the pool had a cracked foundation, one too severe to repair. Recreation and Parks Department spokeswoman Rose Watson said department Assistant General Manager Cathie Santo Domingo and a maintenance team discovered the cracks in the pool. 'Every time they would fill it up, it wouldn't retain the water,' Watson said. During the closure, neighbors have complained and signed a petition, lamenting that working-class families in Los Feliz, Atwater, Silver Lake and East Hollywood have long depended on that public pool for summer relief. 'I always wondered what was happening with that. I've never seen water in it,' said Christine Perez of Los Feliz, who was at a playground near the pool Monday with her 22-month-old son, Miles. 'I was literally thinking last week that it would be great if there was a splash pad down here.' 'Kids need a place to go and a place to learn how to swim,' said Marian Dodge, board secretary and past president of the Friends of Griffith Park. She said the group is 'actually thrilled that they're finally going to go ahead and make the necessary repairs. ... We have been assured that it is fully funded.' A city Bureau of Engineering report says the new project will include 'demolition and reconstruction,' replacing the old pool with a new competition pool measuring 25 yards by 50 meters (up to 12.5 feet deep) and a 'training pool' splash pad that is 25 yards by 25 meters (up to 5 feet deep), along with reconstruction and rehabilitation of the site's two-story Spanish-style pool house and improvements to changing and shower areas and ADA accessibility. The new pools are intended to handle year-round use, incorporating electric pool heaters, salt water and UV light water treatment. Long known as the Municipal Plunge, the pool at Riverside Drive and Los Feliz Boulevard measures about 225 feet by 48 feet. It was the city's largest aquatic facility until the arrival of Hansen Dam Recreation Area, built in 1940 in the Lake View Terrace area of the San Fernando Valley. 'You know the L.A. River runs right behind the pool?' said Dodge. 'The water level behind the pool is so high, they were unable to concrete the river there.' As a result, when the pool was built, it 'was described as a concrete boat floating on top of this sand and mud. It was kind of risky at the beginning, but they did it.' At one point, the pool's capacity was put at 562 people. 'They would have canoeing lessons and water parades,' Dodge said. Now neighbored by tennis courts, a playground, a soccer field and Los Feliz Nursery School, the pool was open until late March of 2020, when the city shut multiple recreation facilities in the early days of the pandemic. It lies within City Council District 4, represented by Nithya Raman. On May 21, the city Board of Public Works authorized hiring Perkins Eastman to do $2.4 million in architectural design and engineering work on the pools and bathhouse. The idea of progress on the pool is comforting, Dodge said, given the idle state of the park's pony rides and merry-go-round, both closed since 2022 for various reasons. The L.A. Zoo, also in Griffith Park, remains open but mired in a legal battle over money between the city and the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Assn. In all, the city operates 57 pools (28 seasonal, 26 year-round and three camp pools) and eight splash pads. As of July 2, eight of the pools were closed. The nearest city-run pools to Griffith Park are Echo Park, Hollywood and Glassell Park. Griffith Park also includes pools at Camp Hollywoodland and Griffith Park Boys Camp.
Axios
6 hours ago
- Business
- Axios
Plaza del Lago on Chicago's North Shore gets luxury revamp
A North Shore mall is getting a major facelift with new stores slated to open soon. Why it matters: Plaza del Lago in Wilmette is upping its retail game with new luxury brands and local favorites, which could likely lure shoppers from Old Orchard, another North Shore open-air mall where major renovations have been underway in recent years. Driving the news: Mall owner WS Development announced it's adding 13 new stores, and at least one Chicago spot making its suburban debut — Streeterville boutique and cafe Space 519 is slated to open there next month. Flashback: Plaza del Lago was originally built in the 1920s off Sheridan Road and retains its original Spanish-style architecture, with its red stucco roof and white stucco exterior. It's one of the oldest open-air shopping centers in the U.S. The Teatro del Lago was a major draw in those early days, described as "a grand movie palace that brought a touch of Hollywood to the North Shore." State of play: As construction is underway, Plaza del Lago is operational with stores such as Big City Optical, Starbucks and Stretch Lab. A Jewel now sits where the theater was. Fun fact: Plaza del Lago sits on a strip of land once known as "No Man's Land" before it was incorporated into Wilmette — a hot spot for suburbanites looking for a drink and a good time. "No Man's Land became an enclave of uninhibited capitalism amid suburbanites who were an untapped customer base thirsting for a discreet night out. Along the rest of the North Shore, going to a movie on Sunday was considered shameful. Even after Prohibition was repealed in 1933, booze was banned by local ordinances," the Tribune reported. Zoom out: Open-air malls are a hot ticket, the Wall Street Journal reported earlier this year, as more flexible work-from-home schedules make it easier for shoppers to run to the market, pick up a coffee, buy a new dress and go to yoga all in one place.
Irish Examiner
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Irish Examiner
Couples will love St Luke's townhouse, a superbly renovated €325k gem
LUCKY for someone, No 13 Alexandra Villas is a pretty little townhouse whose 120-year-old fortunes were restored by the couple that bought it seven years ago. They did all of the sensible stuff first: re-wiring, re-plumbing, installing a new gas fired central heating system, taking out old windows and doors and replacing them with double glazing, even installing underfloor electric heating in the bathroom. Having worked wonders with improving basic comforts, they then set about infusing their home with style, character, and charm. Their endeavours paid off as was clear from the enthusiasm of viewers that came to look on day one. 'The owners did a fabulous job, they put blood, sweat, and tears into it, and we had about a dozen people viewing on the first day. It's already under offer at €347,000,' says selling agent Seán McCarthy of ERA Downey McCarthy. The downstairs layout is clever, with open plan living/dining. A large picture window through an open arch at the dining room end overlooks a pretty courtyard and lets in plenty of natural light. The arch leads to a rear hallway which brings you past a strikingly tiled bathroom to the neat kitchen, with Spanish-style tiling. Any fear of a dark, pokey rear is banished by the French doors that open from the kitchen into the tiny, decked courtyard, 'perfect for morning coffee', Mr McCarthy says. Installed just this year, a lovely old stone wall rises up behind the courtyard, so it's totally enclosed and private. Two double bedrooms upstairs are also tastefully decorated. Tucked in towards the end of a small, quiet, rectangular cul-de-sac between Military Rd and Alexandra Rd, high above St Luke's Cross, Mr McCarthy says a young professional couple would love it, given Cork City centre is a short walk downhill, and St Luke's Cross, with its bustling social scene — Henchy's Bar/Live at St Lukes/two restaurants/a coffee shop — is five minutes down the road. 'It's a gorgeous home in a great location, and we are very busy with first-time buyers and with people already renting in the area who love it there and want to stay put,' the agent says. He's guiding the 74sq m, two-bed terraced home at €325,000. VERDICT: A first-time buyer or downsizer gem
Scottish Sun
7 days ago
- Scottish Sun
I found a ‘secret' paradise 30 minutes from Benidorm – it's nothing like the busy strip but still has double G&Ts for £5
Plus, a mum has shares what locals do much better than Brits in Benidorm, after living there for 40 years SPANISH SUN I found a 'secret' paradise 30 minutes from Benidorm – it's nothing like the busy strip but still has double G&Ts for £5 AS a showbiz journalist at The Sun, my weeknights are often spent celeb-spotting at the latest A-list attraction or dancing into the early hours of a sold-out gig. So when my friend suggested a spontaneous five-night holiday in Spain, I jumped at the chance for somewhere to rest and recharge for a busy summer ahead. Advertisement 10 The villa is only 30 minutes from Benidorm in Vall de Pop's Xaló Credit: Nice 2 Stay 10 Costa Blanca has sizzling temperatures of 30C in June and is just a two-hour flight away Credit: Amanda Devlin 10 When there the concierge can help to make bookings - with wine tasting, hiking, bike hire, massage, yoga and boat hire Credit: With sizzling temperatures of 30C in June and just a two-hour flight away, Costa Blanca seemed like the perfect fit. Nestled in Vall de Pop's Xaló, a mere 30 minutes from Benidorm, we discovered paradise - a nine-bedroom rural retreat surrounded by mountains and vineyards. Stepping into Cuatre Finques feels like stumbling upon a secret destination. A 20-minute walk from the old town's cobbled streets lies a Spanish-style finca offering privacy, indulgence and a unique holiday experience. Advertisement For as little as £136 per night, guests can enjoy the comfort of a stylish bedroom with a balcony and access to the boutique hotel's sun-soaked swimming pool. It's a haven of peace and tranquillity from the outside world, just as owner Nicola intended when she designed, planned and built Cuatre Finques ahead of its opening in 2014. The mum of two, originally from Edinburgh, wanted to create a home from home - offering guests the opportunity to unwind in luxury for a fraction of the price. Every morning we woke up to breakfast on the terrace before wandering over to the 'honesty bar' by the pool, which is well-stocked - or at least it was, before we arrived. Advertisement Sipping tasty, yet cheap cava on a Love Island-style sunbed at midday, we plotted our activities for the days ahead. The concierge can help to make bookings - with wine tasting, hiking, bike hire, massage, yoga and boat hire all being popular pastimes outside of the villa. Benidorm issues smoking ban on two popular beaches in crackdown We wandered down to the old town to explore the traditional Valencian architecture and Xaló's quaint Saturday flea and farmers' markets. It's a far cry from your typical Benidorm break. Advertisement In the evenings, a couple of small bars offered up a fun and friendly atmosphere to try out a Spanish 'chupito', also known as a strong local shot that hits the back of your throat. An enormous double measure of Gin and Tonic will set you back just £5 in comparison to spending three times that in London. 10 Nestled in Vall de Pop's Xaló, a mere 30 minutes from Benidorm, we discovered paradise Credit: Amanda Devlin In fact, I told the bartender he'd mistakenly only charged me for one when I'd ordered two - and he looked as confused as I was. Advertisement It's the same when it comes to eating out for traditional Spanish food. Setback from the notorious tourist hotspots, the bang for one's buck makes the bill arriving a much more pleasant experience than in Barcelona, Madrid or Ibiza. Be warned though, it's easier to find a shop open in the midday sun than it is to grab a taxi. Uber is but a fantasy, with word of mouth appearing to be the most effective way to find a driver. Advertisement We used the app after landing at the airport to take us 50 minutes to the hotel, but you'll need help booking your return trip. 10 We stayed in a nine-bedroom rural retreat surrounded by mountains and vineyards Credit: Amanda Devlin 10 Cuatre Finques feels like stumbling upon a secret destination Credit: Amanda Devlin Hiring a car is advised for peace of mind and the chance to explore more restaurants outside the small town by travelling up into the mountains for spectacular views. Advertisement Despite the taxi roulette and the intention for early nights and hangover-free mornings, a last-minute trip to nearby party neighbourhood Dénia saw us head to a boat nightclub in port called Sounders. Aside from the taxi wait, the evening proved how perfectly positioned we were to enjoy the quietness of a relaxing break so close to a more city-like experience. One of our most favourite evenings during the holiday was however, when we stayed 'home' to eat at Cuatre Finques. Once a week, the chef prepares a group tapas dinner for all guests to enjoy together alongside live music. Advertisement 10 Hiring a car is advised for peace of mind and the chance to explore more restaurants outside the small town by travelling up into the mountains for spectacular views Credit: Amanda Devlin 10 The destination is also a popular venue for yoga retreats as well as large, extended families who want the atmosphere of a villa with the amenities of a hotel Credit: Amanda Devlin Nine courses of fresh seafood, local cuisine and countless bottles of wine later, a mix of English, Scottish, Spanish and German diners became friends. It's moments like this that make the hotel extra special - and what attracts Spanish holidaymakers flocking to the Costa Blanca for a weekend getaway. Advertisement Hosting just 18-20 guests at full capacity, Cuatre Finques can also be hired for exclusive use by a large group. It's a popular venue for yoga retreats as well as large, extended families who want the atmosphere of a villa with the amenities of a hotel. I thought twice about revealing this hidden sweet spot to the world, but it's too good not to share. One man even moved to Benidorm after one visit saying that it's paradise with £1 beers and cheap bills. Advertisement Also, a mum has shared what locals do much better than Brits in Benidorm, after living there for 40 years. 10 It's a far cry from your typical Benidorm break Credit: Amanda Devlin
The Sun
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I found a ‘secret' paradise 30 minutes from Benidorm – it's nothing like the busy strip but still has double G&Ts for £5
AS a showbiz journalist at The Sun, my weeknights are often spent celeb-spotting at the latest A-list attraction or dancing into the early hours of a sold-out gig. So when my friend suggested a spontaneous five-night holiday in Spain, I jumped at the chance for somewhere to rest and recharge for a busy summer ahead. 10 10 10 With sizzling temperatures of 30C in June and just a two-hour flight away, Costa Blanca seemed like the perfect fit. Nestled in Vall de Pop's Xaló, a mere 30 minutes from Benidorm, we discovered paradise - a nine-bedroom rural retreat surrounded by mountains and vineyards. Stepping into Cuatre Finques feels like stumbling upon a secret destination. A 20-minute walk from the old town's cobbled streets lies a Spanish-style finca offering privacy, indulgence and a unique holiday experience. For as little as £136 per night, guests can enjoy the comfort of a stylish bedroom with a balcony and access to the boutique hotel's sun-soaked swimming pool. It's a haven of peace and tranquillity from the outside world, just as owner Nicola intended when she designed, planned and built Cuatre Finques ahead of its opening in 2014. The mum of two, originally from Edinburgh, wanted to create a home from home - offering guests the opportunity to unwind in luxury for a fraction of the price. Every morning we woke up to breakfast on the terrace before wandering over to the 'honesty bar' by the pool, which is well-stocked - or at least it was, before we arrived. Sipping tasty, yet cheap cava on a Love Island-style sunbed at midday, we plotted our activities for the days ahead. The concierge can help to make bookings - with wine tasting, hiking, bike hire, massage, yoga and boat hire all being popular pastimes outside of the villa. Benidorm issues smoking ban on two popular beaches in crackdown We wandered down to the old town to explore the traditional Valencian architecture and Xaló's quaint Saturday flea and farmers' markets. It's a far cry from your typical Benidorm break. In the evenings, a couple of small bars offered up a fun and friendly atmosphere to try out a Spanish 'chupito', also known as a strong local shot that hits the back of your throat. An enormous double measure of Gin and Tonic will set you back just £5 in comparison to spending three times that in London. 10 In fact, I told the bartender he'd mistakenly only charged me for one when I'd ordered two - and he looked as confused as I was. It's the same when it comes to eating out for traditional Spanish food. Setback from the notorious tourist hotspots, the bang for one's buck makes the bill arriving a much more pleasant experience than in Barcelona, Madrid or Ibiza. Be warned though, it's easier to find a shop open in the midday sun than it is to grab a taxi. Uber is but a fantasy, with word of mouth appearing to be the most effective way to find a driver. We used the app after landing at the airport to take us 50 minutes to the hotel, but you'll need help booking your return trip. 10 10 Hiring a car is advised for peace of mind and the chance to explore more restaurants outside the small town by travelling up into the mountains for spectacular views. Despite the taxi roulette and the intention for early nights and hangover-free mornings, a last-minute trip to nearby party neighbourhood Dénia saw us head to a boat nightclub in port called Sounders. Aside from the taxi wait, the evening proved how perfectly positioned we were to enjoy the quietness of a relaxing break so close to a more city-like experience. One of our most favourite evenings during the holiday was however, when we stayed 'home' to eat at Cuatre Finques. Once a week, the chef prepares a group tapas dinner for all guests to enjoy together alongside live music. 10 Nine courses of fresh seafood, local cuisine and countless bottles of wine later, a mix of English, Scottish, Spanish and German diners became friends. It's moments like this that make the hotel extra special - and what attracts Spanish holidaymakers flocking to the Costa Blanca for a weekend getaway. Hosting just 18-20 guests at full capacity, Cuatre Finques can also be hired for exclusive use by a large group. It's a popular venue for yoga retreats as well as large, extended families who want the atmosphere of a villa with the amenities of a hotel. I thought twice about revealing this hidden sweet spot to the world, but it's too good not to share. One man even moved to Benidorm after one visit saying that it's paradise with £1 beers and cheap bills. Also, a mum has shared what locals do much better than Brits in Benidorm, after living there for 40 years. 10
