La Dolce Vita

A quiet force in cultivating the Los Angeles hospitality design ethos, Wendy Haworth has delivered a hybrid of mid-century Milanese flair with California ease at Stella in West Hollywood. 

Stella is her fourth restaurant partnership with Janet Zuccharini, CEO and Founder of the Gusto 54 restaurant group.  Recognized for creating spaces with a mix of finishes and textures, using natural materials, often with a patina that creates a warm and timeless elegance.  She started with inspiration from the modern Italian menu created by Chef Rob Gentile.  "We imagined a space that radiated warmth but still felt fresh, layering mid-century Italian design with curated antiques, art, and accessories,” said Haworth. 

You can see whispers of her past life as a Vogue photo editor through the visual moments she creates throughout the space.  The new staircase connecting the upper level to the pre-existing lower restaurant space feels seamless and not an afterthought, gracefully connecting the spaces.  

The upper level is the main entrance, with a large terrace featuring sliding glass doors, which give the room a light, bright appearance.  The starting point was the custom-designed marble floor inspired by a 1950s building in Milan.  The maple paneling in the dining area creates warmth.  Lesser-known Italian designers inspired several design elements.  A shelving unit is an ode to Franco Albini.  The back bar shelving evokes the work of Ico Parisi.  They paneled the high-ceiling space in the private dining area to create intimacy. They added a mural depicting an Italian pastoral scene with 1970s Murano leaf chandeliers floating above the dining table. 

Downstairs is a moody subterranean environment with walnut paneled walls and striped terrazzo floors. The open kitchen creates a cozy connection with the diners, and a glass-enclosed pasta room allows guests to experience the art of pasta making. The use of mohair, velvet, and leather in the furnishings further envelopes guests in warmth. This is a perfect setting to appreciate the innovative, modern take on classic Italian cuisine.

8899 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood, 213-916-0996, stellawesthollywood.com