The Historic Kitchen Garden at VRG
Estate Caretaker Josh Johnston works alongside UC-certified Master Gardener Lucia Burke to plant many herbs and seasonally appropriate vegetables.
Josh and Lucia grow many varieties of flowers that attract pollinators as well as fruits like blueberries, strawberries, grapes, raspberries, and Kumquats. A chicken coop with hens provides fresh eggs daily. In this charming space is a picturesque, historic Orchid Greenhouse that was originally a gift to Mrs. Robinson from her close friend, composer Les Baxter. Thanks to author Robert S. Anderson, the Beverly Hills Rotary Club generously gave funds to restore the greenhouse in 2016.… Read More
Fascinating Lecture by Author Billy Grubman at VRG
On February 4th, 2025, over 30 guests gathered at The Virginia Robinson Gardens for an event featuring author William Grubman. The day began with a reception on the patio outside the Pool Pavilion. Attendees sipped beverages and enjoyed light pastries while overlooking the sparkling swimming pool.
Once all the guests had assembled, Grubman—known for his bestselling novel, The Storm Over Paris—took the floor in the Billiard Room. He immediately engaged the audience with his quick wit and charming demeanor as he shared stories from his life. He spoke about his upbringing in Los Angeles, his varied interests, including flying planes, and the fascinating journey that led him to write his novel. The Storm Over Paris is a thriller set in 1942 Paris, telling the fictional story of an acclaimed Jewish art dealer forced to authenticate masterworks for the Nazis while maintaining his ethics and keeping his family alive.… Read More
Cocktail Reception at Doyle Celebrating Iris Apfel
The Friends of Robinson Gardens were invited to a delightful preview of “More is More and Less is a Bore: The Iris Apfel Collection” at Doyle Auctioneers and Appraisers in Beverly Hills on February 18, 2025. The event showcased the colorful and bold aesthetic of Apfel, featuring her maximalist vision with her signature oversized glasses, costume jewelry, and flamboyant fashions.
The colorful and stylishly attired guests enjoyed specialty cocktails (the Apfel-Tini and the Iris) while perusing the objects on display, including vintage fashions by Gianfranco Ferre and Azzedine Alaia. Guests were encouraged to try on some of the items and pose behind a large replica of Apfel’s glasses for a fun photo op.… Read More
Discover the Magic of The Virginia Robinson Gardens: Join the Friends Today
Nestled in the heart of Beverly Hills, The Virginia Robinson Gardens is a hidden gem brimming with history, beauty, and philanthropy. For those who wish to preserve and celebrate this remarkable estate, there is no better way to get involved than by joining the Friends of Robinson Gardens (FRG) — our premier philanthropic community.
Why Join the Friends?
When you become a Friend of Robinson Gardens, you enter a welcoming circle of individuals who share a passion for history, horticulture, and community. As a member, you’ll gain exclusive access to a variety of exciting events and experiences within the Gardens and throughout Southern California.… Read More
Superintendent Diane Sipos’ Message: Restoration Projects and BHMN
The Virginia Robinson Gardens is an exceptional public garden and historic estate dating from 1911, and with this comes much maintenance and care. The County of Los Angeles has operated and maintained this unique estate for almost fifty years and is very fortunate to have a strong partner in the Friends to help steward this beloved property. The Friends of Robinson Gardens was established as a non-profit in 1982 specifically to partner with the County to preserve, program and protect this public jewel thus fulfilling Mrs. Robinson’s legacy. … Read More