From the owners…

The first time our family witnessed this magical moment was an evening in the spring of 2015, during our first visit to the Ojai Valley Inn, a beautiful Spanish-style luxury hotel. We sat at the Inn’s bonfire, sipping local wine, while our almost 2-year-old son, Jake, roasted marshmallows.

What was this remarkable place? 

We explored to find out.  We dug into the community, learning and listening to people share the history of the Valley’s agricultural history, the popularity of established eateries as well as new entrants, and the secrets of the local spots less traveled. 

In mid-2016, we came to Ojai on a day trip from Los Angeles to visit the incredible farmer’s market and explore the neighborhoods and tour some properties. Toward the end of our scouting adventure that day, we drove into Upper Ojai, and immediately fell in love.  We found a 5-acre horse ranch with a quaint hacienda-style home that had a front-row seat for the famous Ojai “Pink Moment” – we knew immediately that we were home. 

For us, a project always begins with the fabric of friendship and collaboration. We selected a team based on talent and genuine love for the vision itself.  Architect Jamie Myer of Myer Architects and designer Tim Sack of Habitat Studio joined us in imagining this haven for joyful experiences.  Over the course of 3.5 years, Sam commuted between Los Angeles and Ojai, taking the lead role in creating Casa Goro Topa, which included a complete new build for the main house, a renovation of the original home on the property (which is now the guest house), and the restoration of the barn.  We traveled to Mexico and Nicaragua on sourcing trips to curate each and every element in both homes.  On Thanksgiving 2019, we opened this estate.   Our daughter, Eve, who was born along this journey, now runs and swims with her brother, soaking up the adventure and life of this special place. 

We hope that you will discover your own magic here in the Ojai Valley. 

Sam, Lisa, Jake and Eve