Christmas at a storybook cottage in Brentwood

Christmases in this 1930s storybook-style home in Brentwood are a deeply ingrained tradition. Jan Stanton Holz and her husband, Richard, live here now, but the traditions began when her parents were in residence.

Christmases in this 1930s storybook-style home in Brentwood are a deeply ingrained tradition. Jan Stanton Holz and her husband, Richard, live here now, but the traditions began when her parents were in residence.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Dec. 15, 2017 12:23 PM PT

A storybook cottage

In the baronial living room, a blue spruce has pride of place in a bay window.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times )

A storybook cottage

The topiary Topiary in the shape of bears at the home makes it a neighborhood landmark. It’s known as “The House With the Three Bears.”

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A storybook cottage

Christmas lights add sparkle to the patio.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A storybook cottage

Inside and out, holiday cheer fills the 1930s storybook-style home in Brentwood.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A storybook cottage

The candy closet.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A storybook cottage

A dessert table holds sweets for post-Christmas Eve family dinner.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A storybook cottage

Brownies for post-Christmas Eve family dinner.

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A storybook cottage

Jelly filled cookies.

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A storybook cottage

A trompe-l’oeil by Garth Benton.

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A storybook cottage

A chocolate cake topped with red and green candy.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A storybook cottage

The Christmas tree is decorated with photos of four generations of family.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A storybook cottage

Jan Stanton Holz and husband Richard will entertain family members on Christmas Eve. Custom gift bags hang above the table.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times )