VRG, Author at Robinson Gardens

Time Out Los Angeles

VIRGINIA ROBINSON GARDENS

June 2, 2016

TIME OUT SAYS: Department store magnates Virginia and Harry Robinson built this Beverly Hills estate in 1911, and upon their passing it entered into the county’s hands as a public park. Because of the six-and-a-half-acre estate’s quiet residential location, it’s only accessible via docent-led tours, which you’ll need to arrange two weeks in advance over the phone or via email. Once inside, you’ll find finely manicured gardens and a just as impeccably assembled mansion. In keeping with its storied history of lavish Hollywood parties, the estate hosts a swanky garden party at the … Read More

The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift! Mother of the VRG Historical estate, Virginia Robinson dressed for a Latin-themed costume party.

Need a Mother’s Day gift for someone you love? Why not take them to the Virginia Robinson Gardens’ Latin-themed Benefit Garden Tour: De Colores – The Art of Botanical Seduction!

Known as the “not your average garden tour,” this elaborate experience does not end with its breathtaking, self-guided tour of unique and lush private gardens. This fundraising adventure invites guests back to its exquisite property – the Virginia Robinson Gardens estate – where you will walk through the historical … Read More

Robinson Gardens Coral Tree

Virginia Robinson Gardens’ South African Coral Tree Now Registered as a “California Big Tree”

If you are familiar with the beautiful coral trees that line San Vicente Boulevard from Brentwood (Los Angeles) to the beach cliffs of Santa Monica, you should know that Virginia and Harry Robinson had something to do with it. The Robinsons donated seedlings from their beautiful South African coral tree, which they had originally brought back while abroad on one of their many overseas adventures in the early 1900s.

Over time, this majestic South African coral tree has reached a very mature age and size. “The … Read More

Pasadena Museum of History Quilt Exhibition

Pasadena Museum of History Quilt Exhibition

On April 7, 2016, the Friends of Robinson Gardens took a trip to the Pasadena Museum of History’s exhibition, “Crossing the Atlantic Quilt by Quilt,” which was curated by Maggi Gordon.

The Friends of Robinson Gardens were thrilled to go on this adventure as Maggi is a Friend, one of our very own. A scholar, quilt maker, and collector, Maggi served as our supremely interesting and informative tour guide. Because she curated this exhibit by drawing from her own significant collection of both English and American quilts, she provided us with great … Read More

Interior Designer Suzanne Rheinstein

Lecture at Virginia Robinson Gardens by Interior Designer Suzanne Rheinstein

The Friends of Robinson Gardens were honored to have internationally renowned interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein give a delightful lecture on beautiful homes she has decorated. A longtime supporter of Virginia Robinson Gardens, Suzanne will be our Grand Marshal at the upcoming Garden Tour on Saturday, May 14th. She has written a new book entitled Rooms for Living: A Style for Today with Things from the Past.

Although the homes she has designed reflect different styles, Suzanne said, “They all have a respect for the outdoors, and a love of … Read More

Not Your Average Garden Tour

Not Your Average Garden Tour!

The annual “…into the garden” Benefit Tour at the Virginia Robinson Gardens is NOT your average garden tour! This elaborate fundraiser not only includes tours to exquisite private gardens, but also has an unparalleled luncheon by The Kitchen for Exploring Foods, a fashion show by IRO, a fabulous boutique, and book signings by VRGs Garden Tour Grand Marshal Suzanne Rheinstein with her new book, Rooms for Living, and Vanguard Award recipient Louise Roe with her new book, Front Roe: How to Be the Leading Lady in Your Own Life. Most importantly, guests will … Read More

De Colores Fiesta Boutique

Join Us at the De Colores Fiesta Boutique – Virginia Robinson Gardens

Come and enjoy our fabulous boutique at the Virginia Robinson Gardens estate during the Garden Tour! There is something for everyone. Designer handbags, clothing ranging from vintage to one of a kind, unique jewelry, lovely gifts and elegant antiques, romantic hats, pet accessories, and delightful paintings are but a few of the items offered. Twenty percent of what you buy benefits a great cause – the Virginia Robinson Gardens and the Children’s Program where children are inspired by the beauty of the estate as they learn about botany … Read More

Designing with Passion

The historical Virginia Robinson Gardens home will explode with passion as top designers and artists present incredible displays that will visually stimulate the senses. The designer’s pieces will beautifully and fluidly complement the seductive botanical presence added by the florists, bringing together a magical experience for all to enjoy.

Each of these talented designers and artists has provided information about their work that defines what makes them stand out, thus giving you something to look forward to experiencing. Make sure to purchase your tickets at for this premier Beverly Hills event!

Castle Antiques & Design has been … Read More

A Passion for Frida Kahlo

By now you must have noticed the beautiful collage design of Frida Kahlo on the cover of the invitation to the Robinson Gardens Tour. This year’s theme is “De Colores, The Art of Botanical Seduction” and an image of Frida Kahlo surrounded by flowers couldn’t be more fitting. A modernist artist from Mexico, Frida Kahlo’s connection to nature is well known. Christine McConnell is the artist who created the artwork. She lives in Australia and has a particular interest in Frida Kahlo. She has travelled extensively and her work in all mediums has been influenced … Read More

Meadowscape lawn conversion at the Virginia Robinson Gardens

“Meadowscape” lawn conversion at the Virginia Robinson Gardens

If you are thinking about giving up a lawn in your garden to reduce your water usage by 33%, the alternative looks pretty good here in our front yard at Virginia Robinson Gardens.

Our front lawn before:

And now with our “Meadowscape:”

Like a supporting actor in the movie Chinatown, the front lawn at Virginia Robinson Gardens was subdued in mood, providing an edgy, sterile, green plain for the rest of the cast, the flowering plants, to play off of. This surrealist green, high maintenance lawn existed in an otherwise “unsupportive,” semi-arid … Read More

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST TO STAY IN THE KNOW!