Two friends and I chose Lisa's place while attending a retreat in Santa Monica. Her space was perfect for old friends who wanted quiet and long talks. After intense retreat days, we plopped down by Lisa's fireplace, gazing across marina and up the north coastline -- and talked long into the night. My bedroom was comfy, and my friends were happy with theirs, too. When we were ready to dash off, the airport was 12 minutes. This place was exactly what we hoped for holding space with each other.