Brigette Romanek for Crate & Barrel: Cool, Calm, California Eclectic

Jenni Kayne, a Los Angeles-based designer known for her California style, completed a two-year gut renovation of her Santa Ynez ranch in March 2022. The 20-acre property, which serves as a weekend refuge, was inspired by architect Cliff May's iconic California ranches and holds sentimental value for Kayne, who spent her childhood visiting her godmother's ranch in the area. Although Santa Ynez has seen increased popularity with new tasting rooms, restaurants, and stores, Kayne believes it has retained its charm, describing it as a "baby Napa" with vineyards, olive groves, lavender fields, farms, and livestock. She also maintains a rescue donkey and a mini horse, as well as retired horses, on the property. Kayne's renovation focused on preserving the natural surroundings and the architectural integrity of the original structure. While some square footage was added, the core of the home was maintained, with significant interior updates. The kitchen, for instance, was transformed from a space with tangerine floors and countertops into a serene, light-filled area featuring a soothing palette of white, gray, and taupe. This redesigned kitchen now offers sweeping views of the Californian countryside, making daily tasks like cooking and dishwashing more enjoyable. Kayne's vision for the ranch was to create a beautiful, clean, and neutral California ranch aesthetic with an open floor plan, pitched roofs, and a natural color palette. The renovation involved stripping the house down to its studs, opening up ceilings and walls to maximize natural light and views. The previously sunken living room with carpet and drop ceilings was transformed into an airy space, revealing the original pitched, wooden roof. The small, dark kitchen was also expanded to become an open, functional area with an adjacent family room and expansive views, which Kayne considers her favorite room. The kitchen's design was inspired by Plain English, aiming for bespoke cabinetry that fit the ranch vibe. Kayne opted for a darker paint color for the cabinets while maintaining brightness with white Moroccan tiles for the backsplash and a pale stone countertop. The walls feature Portola Paint in Gem with a Roman Clay finish, creating a plaster effect that is both effortless and traditional. Open shelving in the kitchen displays Kayne's ceramic collection, making the space feel functional and inviting. A La Cornue CornuF 90 Albertine Induction Range serves as a focal point, described as the "jewelry of the kitchen." Kayne emphasizes meticulous organization and the use of high-quality accessories, such as an enamel bucket with an Amber Interiors bottle brush and natural dish soap from Koala Eco. Sentimental items, like a wooden dough bowl from her godmother’s ranch and Victoria Morris ceramics, add personal touches. For home décor, Kayne sources from 1stDibs for vintage items, Black Creek Mercantile, BDDW, and auctions. Her friend's online vintage curation, Galerie Provenance, also provides unique accessories. The ranch's furnishings are primarily Jenni Kayne Home products, with about 10% sourced from other designers to create a lived-in, authentic feel. Regarding white and cream furniture, Kayne advises using slipcovered sofas that can be removed for cleaning. She also suggests using painter’s drop cloths, softened by washing, to protect furniture during gatherings or from pets. To infuse California style into any home, Kayne recommends embracing effortlessness, using linen furniture, lighter woods, lightening wall colors, or bleaching floors. Bringing nature indoors through fresh flowers or olive branches is also a key element of her design philosophy, promoting a connection to the natural environment regardless of location. #JenniKayne #SantaYnezRanch #CaliforniaChic #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #RenovationProject #NeutralPalette #CaliforniaStyle #LifestyleBrand

Dominika Barnes, owner of Coastal Chic Co and ModelCitizen Studio, discusses her career evolution and the strategic decisions behind her professional shifts. She initially established ModelCitizen Studio, a retouching house, 15 years prior, coinciding with the peak era of glossy fashion magazines, elaborate car advertisements, flawless beauty campaigns, and intricate special effects for movie billboards. However, the industry underwent significant changes, primarily driven by the transition to digital formats and the rise of international retouchers offering services at a fraction of the cost. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated these shifts, prompting Barnes to reassess her business model and career path. Recognizing the need for adaptation, Barnes embarked on a "remodel" of her professional endeavors. This led to the creation of Coastal Chic Co, an interior design company. She identified that her existing skills and assets, including a keen eye for design, proficiency with computer systems, tablets, and digital drawing, could be seamlessly transferred to 3D rendering. This pivot allowed her to leverage her artistic and technical capabilities in a new domain, particularly noting that on-site installations, a requirement in interior design, could not be outsourced to international competitors. Barnes also expresses an intention to explore the emerging field of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), viewing it as another avenue to utilize her skills and assets. She emphasizes that what might appear as "giving up" can, in fact, be a positive turning point, facilitating evolution and growth. Her career philosophy is characterized by a lack of fear in decision-making and a strong belief in working tirelessly and passionately once opportunities present themselves. The interview also touches upon personal recommendations for experiencing Los Angeles. Barnes suggests a Topanga Canyon hike for physical activity, dining at Cafe Gratitude for nourishment, visiting the Art Angel gallery for visual appreciation, attending a performance at the Hollywood Bowl for auditory enjoyment, and a walk on the beach for spiritual rejuvenation. Barnes acknowledges several individuals who have significantly influenced her journey. She credits Ranjit Grewal for his encouraging words, which instilled confidence and prompted her to start her initial venture. Michael Muller is recognized for his trust in her skills, leading to collaboration on major campaigns. Lyle Owerko receives appreciation for allowing her to share in the creative process for his fine art photography exhibits. Barnes attributes her current success and position to the collective encouragement, support, and trust received from these and other gifted creatives throughout her career. #DominikaBarnes #CoastalChicCo #ModelCitizenStudio #InteriorDesign #CareerEvolution #DigitalArt #NFTs #Entrepreneurship #CreativeIndustry