Walk down the Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, and as you hit a corner just west of Fulton, among the shops butted up to the sidewalk, one storefront is dramatically set back. The space that just a few years ago was a used-car lot is now a charming, landscaped, pebble-filled yard highlighted by large potted plants, fountains and attractive outdoor furniture. A lanai is trellised with jasmine vine; a black wrought iron fence is lined with a ficus hedge. You almost feel like you are at an old-world European sanctuary. And that is exactly the vibe the owners of the new Arte Bottega were going for.
“Our expertise lies in capturing the raw beauty of natural elements and blending them with warmth and simplicity,” says Gio N. Kabessa, who co-owns the shop with Tom Elyahu. “Our designer/merchandiser has an astute eye for authenticity. She procures unique, well-loved pieces with earthy, textured and neutral elements.” Gio and Tom are longtime friends who also own and operate the construction company Topteam Builders. Arte Bottega is their attempt to satisfy their clients’ desire for imported antique pieces.
“We import from all over globally. We pride ourselves in curating rare and unique pieces that showcase the craftsmanship of talented artisans. With Arte Bottega, we envisioned a one-stop shop for all things home,” shares Gio.
“Our expertise lies in capturing the raw beauty of natural elements and blending them with warmth and simplicity.”
Sleek teak furniture—some pieces with contemporary lines—and crisp white umbrellas fill the outdoor space, along with a large assortment of aged pots of all colors (priced from $150 to $650). Inside the store, which visitors enter from a fully retractable sliding door, a charming assortment of accessories ranges from antique breadboards to handsome marble bowls to distressed wooden tables, stools and mirrors.
When Gio describes Arte Bottega as a “one-stop shop,” he means it. The building also serves as the headquarters for Topteam Builders. The owners hope the storefront will be an opener to a conversation that can go in endless creative directions.
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