What's Happening?
Brandon Shahniani, a 28-year-old co-owner of the Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain in South Pasadena, has transformed his Montrose townhome into a theme park-style residence filled with 1980s nostalgia. The home, dubbed 'Naynay’s World Expo,' features
11 immersive rooms inspired by pop culture from Shahniani's youth, including a Disneyland-themed room and a 1980s Miami Beach-style bedroom. Shahniani, who also performs as a drag persona named 'Naynay,' uses his home to express creativity and prioritize mental health. The house is filled with vintage items, such as a Rubik's Cube and a vintage Disneyland ticket book, and incorporates sensory elements like sound effects and scents to enhance the immersive experience.
Why It's Important?
Shahniani's home reflects a growing trend among younger generations to create personal spaces that prioritize mental well-being and nostalgia. By incorporating elements from his childhood and using sensory techniques learned from his time as a Disneyland storyteller, Shahniani offers a unique approach to home design that challenges traditional norms. This trend highlights a shift towards more personalized and emotionally resonant living spaces, which could influence future home design and mental health practices. Shahniani's approach also underscores the importance of creativity and self-expression in combating generational anxiety and fostering a sense of safety and happiness.
