Caren Rideau has a vision. As the mind behind the Los Angeles-based Kitchen Design Group, and partner in the Santa Ynez Valley-based boutique winery, Tierra y Vino, she has built a successful career around her deep passion for design, people, food and the camaraderie and connection that join those elements.
Having lost her Kitchen Design Group showroom to the wildfires in the Pacific Palisades earlier this year, Rideau’s strong belief in the importance of community led her to find a new location, in nearby Santa Monica, and to open the doors anew to the shared love of a home-cooked meal, a glass of wine and gatherings of family and friends.
As we slip into the fall season, and as the doors open to Kitchen Design Group’s new location, Rideau is thinking of heartier meals, full-bodied wines and crisp outdoor settings, as well as a palette that embraces autumnal hues of marigold, terracotta and rich blues. aspire Deputy Editor Jennifer Quail spoke with Rideau about the art of creating a menu and an atmosphere that reflects the mood of fall, and about the necessary and therapeutic work of rebuilding.
Jennifer Quail: You are rebuilding and starting anew after the fires. What does it mean to you to be not just rebuilding a showroom, but rebuilding a place of community?
Caren Rideau: Having been part of a small community for over 30 years, my neighbors, clients and local storekeepers have always felt like an extended family. Seeing the same familiar faces day in and day out created a sense of belonging that was truly irreplaceable. Unfortunately, to have that vibrant community disrupted in just 24 hours was unimaginable.
In choosing Ocean Park Blvd, it felt like a subconscious decision to seek out that connection once again. After dedicating six months to rebuilding and having now moved in, I am already experiencing the warmth of community here. Whether it’s walking down the street for coffee or grabbing lunch, there’s an undeniable sense of familiarity that brings comfort.
What truly warms my heart is running into so many familiar faces of fellow Palisadians who have also been displaced but now live nearby. This shared experience has fostered new connections and rekindled old friendships.
I am genuinely excited about the future with Kitchen Design Group on Ocean Park Blvd and look forward to forging new beginnings together.
JQ: Tell us about your new space. What will we find there in terms of offerings, atmosphere, and events?
CR: When you walk into my new kitchen showroom, I want you to immediately feel a sense of warmth and comfort, almost as if you’ve stepped into my home. This space is designed not just for display but to inspire creativity and joy in cooking.
While our showroom features only one kitchen display, it is equipped with fully operating appliances that will allow you to envision how each element can come together in your own home. My ultimate goal is to transform this space into a community hub where we can host workshops and cooking demonstrations, sharing the love of design, kitchens and culinary arts.
This new environment represents the culmination of my passions — designing beautiful kitchens, exploring cooking techniques and incorporating my pottery into the mix. I truly believe this space will be a source of inspiration for everyone who visits.
JQ: You are known as a culinary and entertaining tour de force. As we head into the crisp fall season, please share your thoughts on hosting the perfect autumn dinner party.
CR: As we step into the autumn season, I can’t help but think about the joys of fall entertaining. This time of year not only brings the excitement of holidays but also a fantastic array of seasonal foods that can elevate our gatherings.
When it comes to hosting, my best advice is easy: Keep it simple. Remember, your goal is to connect with your guests, not to be hidden away in the kitchen preparing elaborate dishes. As hosts, we have a wonderful opportunity to bring friends and family together and enhance our sense of community.
Caren Rideau’s top tips for effortless entertaining this fall:
1. You Don’t Have to Prepare Everything: Consider bringing in side dishes from your local gourmet markets or favorite take-out restaurants (it also supports your neighborhood establishments).
2. Prepare Your Dining Table in Advance: Create a comfortable atmosphere that feels inviting rather than overly staged, making it easy to transition from pre-dinner conversations to serving.
3. Plan Your Background Music and Drinks: Set the mood early by having your playlist ready and drinks easily accessible.
4. Know How You’ll Serve Each Dish: Decide in advance which plates you’ll use for each dish so you can focus on enjoying your time with guests when they arrive. Never serve from a take-out dish or aluminum pan.
By following these steps, you can create memorable experiences without feeling overwhelmed. Let’s embrace the beauty of fall together!
Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to aspire design and home magazine.