Photos by Logan Hall

There is a beloved tradition on the horizon that comes every year when the air starts to get crispy. As you prepare to throw yourself into the festive season, the Ojai Holiday Home Tour & Marketplace stands out as a beacon of inspiration and connection. Slated for November 11 and 12, 2023, this event, hosted by the Ojai Festival Women’s Committee, promises a showcase of holiday cheer.

During this enchanting weekend, get treated to a journey through your neighbors’ houses. Experience the historical insights offered by iconic abodes like Smiley’s House, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned architect George Washington Smith. Revel in the Provençal elegance of Maison Ojai, appreciate the artisanship of the 1920s Craftsman style embodied by Gwynne Cottage, and find ideas for your own eco-friendly renovation projects at Oak Creek Oasis, a modern sanctuary with awe-inspiring vistas.

But this tour offers more than architectural grandeur. It’s a source of boundless stimulation as each residence demonstrates a plethora of holiday decorating ideas, from innovative wreaths to intricate table settings. Details like expertly draped garlands and handmade ornaments underscore the creativity behind each detail. It’s a sensorial immersion of twinkling lights, merry melodies, and the comforting aroma of holiday scents — orchestrated by local designers like Elizabeth Cohn, Annie Mosites, Kim Barnes, Lynn Malone, and Lila Glasoe Francese, who bring each chosen holiday theme alive with their floral and interior displays.

Here’s a sneak peek of the four homes on this year’s tour:

DISCOVER ELEGANCE EMBODIED
Smiley’s House, Arbolada

In the architectural annals of Southern California, George Washington Smith’s name rings synonymous with artistry and legacy. Credited as one of the pioneers of the Spanish Colonial Revival movement, his creations echo distant Andalusia. Smith caught the eye of Edmund Libbey, who commissioned Smith for three spec houses for his Arbolada development project. One of those three, Smiley’s House, built in 1921, sits proudly on Ojai’s Historical Registry.

It was later transformed by Kevin Clark, doubling in size while remaining a Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece. Red-tiled roofs, thick white walls, and formal gardens transport you back in time. Imagine yourself quaffing too much moonshine and arguing with Theosophist Fritz Kunz in the fabulous Art Deco bar.

(Or is that more of a me thing?)

NOTE: HELP of Ojai is providing free shuttle service to the Smiley’s House leaving from the Matilija Gym parking lot.

GO COTTAGE CORE
Gwynne Cottage, Downtown

From the same era as Smiley’s House, the age of Ojai’s Renaissance, when, freshly christened with its new name, the town shimmered with promise and transformation. But this cottage couldn’t be more different, and the side-by-side comparison is fascinating. As you meander through a rustic gate, a medley of flowers and fruit trees greets you. “What a little treasure (this) place is,” says Women’s Festival Committee co-chair Gayle Whitaker, “We couldn’t be more pleased to have it on the tour!” Amidst all its Craftsman-style splendor, it’s the personal touches of Gwynne Cottage that captivate the most.

VIVRE COMME UN COQ EN PÂTE!

Maison Ojai, Persimmon Hill

In the exclusive Persimmon Hill neighborhood lies Maison Ojai, a marvel reminiscent of idyllic scenes near Aix-En-Provence. Seamlessly merging contemporary design’s comfort with the French countryside’s pastoral allure, it is a haven that celebrates nature’s abundance.

Walls adorned with evocative 1960s and 70s period art from France lend a touch of European sophistication to every corner. Venture outdoors, and the garden beckons, with its captivating feature known as “the Folly,” set against the backdrop of a gently spinning windmill and an expansive horse arena. Not far off, a charming guest bungalow stands by the side of a serene pool, bordered by a leafy park and protective hedges, offering a perfect retreat for introspection or lively gatherings.

MEET AN ELECTRIC KITCHEN

Oak Creek Oasis, Downtown

In the heart of Ojai, surrounded by dramatic mountains, stands a residence that is a testament to natural splendor and human artistry. With its conscientiously redesigned layout to minimize carbon imprints, Oak Creek Oasis holds an eclectic assembly of art, each bearing a story of its owners’ travels and discoveries. The revamped all-electric kitchen marries functionality with elegance, complemented by a meticulously designed master bathroom suite. Step outside and be greeted by terraced gardens teeming with vibrant, drought-resistant flora. Indeed, it is a sublime haven in the midst of Ojai.

We spoke to Lila Glasoe Francese about her plans for the ornamentation. Her company, OHI HOME is stoked to be a part of this year’s Holiday Home Tour:

“We are taking on the exciting challenge of holiday decor for the charming Oak Creek Oasis. This in-town home not only boasts stunning views from every angle, a rarity for an in-town residence but is also a trove of travel treasures. While our involvement has primarily focused on kitchen and bathroom remodeling, we are truly excited to infuse this space with a unique blend of global holiday influences. Our team is dedicated to crafting a holiday experience that marries these cherished travel mementos with festive decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that celebrates the season’s spirit in an entirely unique way.”

More Ojai Music Festival events can be found on

AND, OF COURSE, THERE’S PLENTY OF MUSIC

Music is essential to the soul of Ojai, and it resonates through the homes, gardens, and Libbey Park with performances by local professional and student musicians, adding a melodious backdrop to the visual feast. Gayle Whitaker explained the importance of the event in keeping the arts vibrantly alive in schools and the wider community:

“All of our proceeds go to the Ojai Music Festival and its free BRAVO Music Program, serving children in the Ojai Valley schools with music education and workshops.”  

THE MARKETPLACE

After gathering your inspiration, step across Libbey Park to the Holiday Marketplace. A celebration of craftsmanship, this event brings together the talents of over fifty local and regional artisans, showcasing a diverse array of lifestyle goods and unique gifts — this FREE bonus event is a perfect encore to your tour.

SPECIAL KEEPSAKE ALERT

And...drumroll... Ojai Music Festival is rolling out a new tradition! Feast your eyes on the annual ornament handcrafted by the talented Jeffrey Ryan May of Ritual Ceramics. Grab one at the Marketplace, or if you’re feeling extra generous, sponsors dropping $500 or more get one as a gift.

As you wander from house to house, admiring the intricate floral arrangements and absorbing the melodious tunes, you are not just witness to Ojai’s joyous energy; you become a part of it. Dive headfirst into enchanting vibes and cozy community spirit. Sharing this with friends and family? Even better! Who knows, this might just become your new favorite holiday tradition. 

See you there!

GAYLE’S TIPS: 

Tickets ($45 advance) may be purchased online at OjaiFestival.org or by calling 805 646-2053. You may also purchase in person at Attitude Adjustment Shoppe in Ojai and Fox Jewelers in Ventura. During the tour, tickets will be available at the homes for $50. SAVE THE DATE: November 11 and 12 from 10 am to 4 pm.