Landmark Home In Santa Monica Exemplifies The Craftsman Style

This article showcases a Los Angeles home meticulously designed by Betsy Burnham, where Moroccan motifs are ingeniously integrated to bring vibrancy to a predominantly neutral black and white palette. The design strategy emphasizes defining details and a careful selection of materials and furnishings to create a unique and sophisticated interior. The tour begins in the entryway, where a vintage mirror is strategically placed above a custom console, immediately setting a tone of elegant eclecticism. Instead of conventional runners, Burnham chose to "carpet" the entry with inlaid mosaic stones from Country Floors, demonstrating a creative approach to flooring that adds a distinctive Moroccan touch from the outset. The living room exemplifies the designer's philosophy of "defining details." Here, the plaster-relief ceiling has been hand-painted, adding an intricate layer of artistry to the space. Custom furniture pieces, including a sofa covered in Holly Hunt leather with Pindler fabric cushions and an ottoman in Clarence House's Bukhara Crewel, are thoughtfully combined with swivel chairs in Rose Tarlow Melrose House's Canvas Cloth and armchairs in Rogers & Goffigon's Bechamel. Fritz side tables by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams complete the sophisticated arrangement. In the dining room, Burnham expertly balances white floors and black accents with feminine elements. Key pieces include a Montalvo chandelier by Dennis & Leen, Windsor Smith's Scalloped Antique mirror, and chairs upholstered in Le Gracieux's Kirachi linen. Vintage Baguès sconces further embellish the space, adding a touch of whimsy and historical charm. The powder room showcases Ann Sacks's Maghreb 4 tiles on the walls, creating a striking Moroccan-inspired backdrop. Arturo sconces by Paul Ferrante, a Forbidden City mirror by Bunny Williams Home, and a Mehraab sink by Viya for Stephanie Odegard with THG's Versailles fittings contribute to a luxurious and exotic atmosphere. The master bedroom's design is inspired by a 19th-century Indian rug from Rugs & Art, which dictated a soft, serene color scheme. The room features a bed by Posse Furniture, sheets by Deborah Sharpe Linens, a throw from Jayson Home, and a vintage lamp from Downtown. Curtains in S. Harris's Tibet silk with Lee Jofa's Vintage Link trim add texture and elegance. Throughout the house, walls are painted in Benjamin Moore's White Dove, providing a consistent, clean canvas. The guest bedroom is designed to "pop" with color and pattern, incorporating a vintage suzani headboard and Moroccan rugs to create a vibrant and inviting space. The staircase is transformed into a graphic installation with patterned tiles by Country Floors, including a Moorish mosaic, Country Floors' Nabeul Noir, mixed with diagonal striped flooring, making a strong visual statement. Outside, the patio is outfitted with Kingsley-Bate's Southampton seating and cushions in a Perennials fabric. An Indonesian daybed is enlivened with vintage textiles and a seat cushion in Great Outdoors' Fresh Canvas. An etched-brass tray table adds historical depth to the outdoor seating area. The infinity-edge pool, flanked by urns transformed into fountains, offers a breathtaking view that, according to Burnham, blurs the lines of geographical location until the Los Angeles skyline is visible. Southampton woven-wicker chaise longues by Kingsley-Bate complete the outdoor retreat. #MoroccanDesign #InteriorDesign #NeutralPalette #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #CustomFurniture #TileWork #OutdoorLiving #BetsyBurnham

Julia Kramer, a former Bon Appétit editor, and her husband, Zach Kaplan, purchased a Craftsman home in Koreatown, Los Angeles, sight unseen during the early days of the pandemic. The decision was primarily influenced by a stained-glass peacock window in the dining room, which resonated with their family's experience visiting live peacocks at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This personal connection served as a significant sign, making the long-distance purchase feel destined. The couple, still residing in their two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper West Side, relied on an L.A.-based friend to view the property shortly after it was listed before making an offer. Following the purchase, and with only six weeks until their move, Kramer and Kaplan enlisted the help of Jamie Haller, an experienced Craftsman restorer and shoe designer. Haller's primary task was to modernize certain aspects of the home while also stripping away inappropriate additions, such as built-in speaker systems in the living room and kitchen, and numerous recessed lights. The goal was to preserve the original character and 'good stuff' of the Craftsman style. Kramer, who was largely put off by the ubiquity of newly remodeled kitchens featuring subway tile and open shelves during her house hunt, found the untouched, wood-heavy kitchen of this home particularly appealing. She expressed a preference for living without common countertop materials like marble and granite and appreciated the kitchen's separation from other rooms, allowing her personal space while cooking. Restoration efforts in the kitchen focused on subtle yet crucial updates. Haller oversaw the replacement of awning window chains with historically accurate hardware, a task that required considerable effort to source and install. She emphasized 'restraint' in the renovation process, focusing on making the space functional without sacrificing its original charm. A carpenter was brought in to repair the track of the old-fashioned bread box's garage door, ensuring its safe operation. While the kitchen lacks modern amenities like soft-close hinges, it retains a distinct 'soul' that appealed to the owners. One of the most challenging projects was the living room, where plaster walls had been covered in blue silk dupioni fabric and secured with an estimated 45,000 staples. Removing these staples was a laborious process, taking a week of manual effort. The focal point of the revitalized living room became Kramer’s vintage coffee table, a 1stdibs acquisition, which uniquely functions as a champagne and shrimp cocktail station, with its inverted center perfectly accommodating her ice bucket. Haller also had to source new lighting fixtures, as the previous owners took the originals. She turned to a salvage shop in Los Angeles known for preserving lights from Old Hollywood celebrity homes, finding an antique sconce for the guest bedroom’s salvaged sink that once belonged to Buster Keaton. Distinguishing this Craftsman from others, the home features dark, purple-hued mahogany wood rather than the typical red-orange Douglas fir. This unique wood tone harmonizes surprisingly well with subtle pink accents, such as the original fireplace grout and the new dining room walls, which were painted a soft dusty lavender-gray. Haller noted that the natural light interacting with these elements creates a warm glow. Due to the tight renovation schedule, restoring the painted wood trim was not feasible. Instead, it was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s dark navy shade, Railings, to achieve a cohesive look. In contrast to the home’s more vibrant areas, the main bedroom adopted a softer palette, transforming its previous purple walls into a serene cream. Kramer, typically drawn to maximalist designs, was swayed by Haller’s vision for a neutral, tranquil space. The bedroom renovation included creating two closets on either side of the bed by reallocating space from an adjacent children’s room, and adding a built-in reading nook with a tufted cushion, which serves as Kramer’s preferred work-from-home spot. For the children’s bedrooms, Kramer and Haller exercised a different form of restraint, opting for allover wallpapers with prints that strike a balance between kid-friendly and adult-approved aesthetics. Kramer expressed her desire to postpone 'ugly child spaces,' choosing whimsical crane designs by House of Hackney for her youngest son's room and a floral print by the same brand for the bathroom. She found that the numerous built-ins in the large bathroom helped to break up the busy floral pattern effectively. The various bird motifs throughout the home, from the initial peacock window to the crane wallpaper, have become a personal symbol of good fortune for Kramer. #HomeTour #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SightUnseenPurchase #HistoricPreservation #VintageDecor #FamilyHome

This article highlights the design philosophy and personal home of Katie Kath, an interior designer and partner at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Kath embarked on building her dream home with her husband, Jesse, on a double-wide lot along Minnehaha Creek, aiming to create a space that prioritizes timeless interiors, exceptional quality, and impeccable craftsmanship, moving away from a standard builder-grade aesthetic. The vision for their 4,000-square-foot home was to incorporate customized features tailored to their family of five, ensuring every detail was intentional and thoughtfully chosen. The construction of the home, which commenced during the pandemic, was completed in a swift eight months. Despite the rapid timeline, design decisions were meticulously made, with Katie acting as both the manager and client. This dual role necessitated careful attention to both major and minor details to ensure the home's enduring appeal. Key design elements on the main floor include reclaimed wood beams from Manomin Resawn Timbers and alder accents in the cabinetry, island, and built-in banquette, which together create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cast stone fireplace surround, matching the kitchen cabinetry, serves as a contemporary focal point in the living room, with white oak flooring extending up to its base for a seamless look. The home's modern design is enhanced by black-frame windows, which are balanced with gold tones to maintain a comfortable and clean feel. The baseboards and millwork are intentionally taller than standard, adding a traditional touch. Unlacquered brass cabinet hardware from Armac Martin in London provides a desired contrast in the kitchen. Beyond the physical design, the article emphasizes that the true essence of Kath's home lies in the traditions she shares with her family, especially during the holiday season. These traditions transform the house into a cozy, safe, warm, and inviting home, fulfilling her original vision of a timeless, traditional abode with festive flair. Kath also shares practical tips for incorporating seasonal spirit into home decor without overwhelming the space or compromising on timelessness. She advises decorating for the season rather than specific holidays to allow decor to remain relevant for longer periods. Sticking to neutral earth tones for the main color scheme, with bright accents, is another recommendation. Kath suggests focusing decorating efforts on main entertaining areas, like the ground floor, and involving family in the decorating process to make it an enjoyable event. Finally, she advocates for investing in high-quality, reusable decor pieces, such as garland, and taking advantage of end-of-season sales to build a collection of timeless decorations that can be cherished year after year. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TimelessInteriors #HolidayDecor #CustomHome #JkathDesignBuild #Renovation #FamilyHome #SeasonalDecor

The article explores Baileyana Park, a historic Hillsborough estate with a rich Hollywood legacy, now owned and meticulously updated by designer Simona Irwin. Originally conceived as a compound by the renowned "King of Comedy," Mack Sennett, the property served as a secluded retreat for Hollywood stars and San Francisco socialites alike. Sennett, famous for his silent movies and an honorary Academy Award recipient, frequently entertained celebrity friends such as Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, and W.C. Fields at this residence, a fact substantiated by archival photographs and Sennett's autobiography. The estate's centerpiece is an extraordinary swimming pool, a rarity for its time, featuring hand-cut Italian tiles that extend from the surface to the bottom. Simona Irwin, who shares the home with her venture capitalist husband, Scott Irwin, and their three daughters, highlights that the pool’s design creates an immediate vacation atmosphere and its sun-drenched position ensures usability throughout the day. When Irwin acquired the property 12 years ago, she undertook a retrofitting of the pool, carefully preserving its original handmade Italian tiles, maintaining its historical appearance as seen in Sennett's "Bathing Beauties" silent movie series, many of which were filmed on site. The home itself exudes the glamorous and cinematic aesthetic reminiscent of 1940s Hollywood Hills residences, making the most of natural light. Beyond the pool, the estate is distinguished by its expansive multi-level gardens, terraces, and numerous entrances. Two ancient redwood trees majestically frame one of the property's entrances, a site so iconic that locals often visit to photograph themselves with the gate and trees as a backdrop. The design seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living, with large sliding glass doors in the living room opening onto a vast terrace overlooking the pool, offering residents a sense of complete privacy and relaxation. The estate features three distinct entrances, each with its own character: the main entrance framed by redwoods, and two side entrances adorned with mature trees and classic French chateau-style gates. A dedicated section of the house, complete with its own entrance and pathway to the pool house and swimming pool, is designed for the children, allowing for family entertainment without disturbing other areas of the home. Simona Irwin's design philosophy is deeply influenced by her upbringing, her mother and grandmother's appreciation for beauty, and her experiences living abroad, particularly her years in Paris. She applies a fashion-like approach to interior design, emphasizing the harmonious blend of color and texture, and prioritizing natural light and a welcoming aesthetic over heavy, overpowering elements. Despite adding a significant amount of square footage to the house during renovations, Irwin ensured that the additions blended seamlessly with the original structure, making it difficult to distinguish between old and new. This meticulous approach has allowed her to modernize the historic property for contemporary standards while preserving its original character, ensuring its continued status as a cherished part of old Hillsborough. #HomeDesign #HistoricEstate #HollywoodLegacy #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #OutdoorSpaces #ArchitecturalRenovation #CaliforniaHomes #SimonaIrwin

Filmmaker Gregory Caruso's 727-square-foot Craftsman cottage in Laguna Beach, a registered historical structure dating back to 1917, was recently transformed into a Zen-inspired weekend retreat. Husband-and-wife design duo Scott Jarrell and Kristan Cunningham of Hammer and Spear were tasked with the renovation. Having worked with Caruso on previous projects, the designers were given significant creative freedom after an initial concept presentation. Caruso's primary design inspiration was the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, interpreted through the lens of the 'Mad Men' series finale, which depicted a tranquil California retreat. While initial ideas for tapestries and tie-dye were toned down, the designers incorporated an "overdose of saturated color" to compensate and root the home in the region's artistic culture. The guiding touchstone for the design became the warm, woody California abode of sculptor J.B. Blunk, known for his Japanese-inspired aesthetic. Jarrell and Cunningham incorporated this ethos through elements like a vintage Noguchi lantern, a tatami mat in the sleeping nook, and antique Japanese wood boxes, all contributing to a sense of zen. The renovation emphasized tactful restraint, aiming to maintain original features and salvage existing materials. Swing doors in the hallway were refashioned into pocket doors, and the 105-year-old redwood walls were meticulously restored. The original Douglas fir flooring underwent sanding, staining, and sealing to bring it back to its new condition. The designers chose to keep material new finishes minimal to allow the redwood to dominate the visual narrative. Copper was introduced for new countertops, the kitchen sink and backsplash, and the bathroom countertop and tub deck, all hand-patinated by collaborator Derek Albeck of DDA Projects. The fireplace was adorned with teal handmade tiles, inspired by a puffed-edge Batchelder design. The cottage's classification as "Exceptional" by the Laguna Beach Historical Society presented unique challenges, particularly regarding exterior modifications. Gregory opted to defer exterior overhauls, meaning certain elements, such as the original windows and 1980s or 90s leaded glass panes flanking the fireplace, could not be made more efficient or removed. To address this, Jarrell and Cunningham ingeniously used paper shoji shutters as a workaround. Laguna Construction & Builder served as the contractor for the project. For Caruso, the cottage serves as a welcome escape from city life, suitable for small gatherings or hosting occasional overnight guests. The designers meticulously outfitted the entire home, from linens and bathroom essentials to kitchen gadgets and a vacuum, ensuring it was fully functional and ready for immediate use upon his first visit. This comprehensive approach aimed to provide a complete and seamless experience, ensuring the retreat had everything necessary for a quick weekend getaway, free from any lingering signs of its past, such as the vintage can of Coke found during the remodel. #LagunaBeach #CraftsmanCottage #HomeRenovation #ZenDesign #HistoricalPreservation #InteriorDesign #HammerAndSpear #CaliforniaDesign #WeekendRetreat #FilmmakerHome

This article details the renovation of a 100-year-old Craftsman-style house in LA's Hancock Park neighborhood by Dmar Interiors. The homeowners sought to preserve the property's original character and period details while integrating modern updates to reflect their personal style. Mollie Ranize, founder and lead designer at Dmar Interiors, along with designers Kim Serani and Maria Aramburu, specialize in California Modern interiors and were tasked with blending this aesthetic with the home's historic architecture. The renovation began with addressing the existing conditions of the historic home, which had seen 107 years of use. This involved extensive restoration and refurbishment of the millwork. A key aspect of the design strategy was to incorporate the clients' preferences for color, pattern, and graphic elements while respecting the home's inherent architectural details. The main entrance, leading directly into the open-plan formal living room, required a furniture layout that was both welcoming and visually engaging. The curved Siena sofa from Jayson Home was a focal point, complemented by lightened walls and contrasting coffered ceiling beams to enhance height and highlight the woodwork, creating a soft and inviting atmosphere. In the living room, a pair of mustard yellow Regis lounge chairs from Article introduced a vibrant accent, harmonizing with the room's artwork and soft gray palette. Houseplants were strategically placed to add texture and a sense of freshness. For the kitchen, the design team opted to work with the existing cabinet color due to timeline constraints, instead focusing on painting the walls, updating light fixtures, and using a distinct color in the breakfast nook to differentiate the spaces. A vintage Turkish runner from Etsy and Akoya Pendant lights from Shades of Light were key additions. The backsplash was upgraded with pure white Moroccan Zellige tiles from Zia Tile, contributing to a refreshed look without replacing the good-quality cabinetry. The breakfast nook featured the historic built-in, which was highlighted with Sherwin Williams Foxhall Green paint. The space was brightened with lighter finishes and furnishings, including an Athena round dining table, Amare dining chairs, and a Paper Moon hanging shade, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. In the dining room, existing paneling was complemented by new wallpaper, Zenada in Carbon from Schumacher, which added graphic interest and sophistication, balancing traditional and contemporary elements. The second living room, a smaller retreat, was transformed into an inviting reading nook with a pinkish-purple grasscloth wallpaper, a brass statement light fixture, a new sofa, and a vintage rug. The movie room presented an opportunity for a dramatic shift in mood. Initially, the dark blue walls were considered for lightening, but after discussion, the decision was made to go even darker. Walls painted in Sherwin Williams Mount Etna, combined with an emerald sectional, created a moody and immersive escape. For the nursery, a crucial space for the new family, existing built-ins were repaired and painted in Benjamin Moore Hale Navy. A bold Furada jungle-vibe wallpaper from Rebel Walls, an oval-shaped area rug, and a Snoozer cream nursery glider completed the sophisticated gender-neutral design. The project successfully integrated modern updates while honoring the home's history, providing a fresh, personal, and updated living space that respects its original character. #CraftsmanStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaModern #HistoricHomes #LivingRoomDesign #KitchenRemodel #NurseryDesign #PeriodDetails

The Craftsman style home, a favorite among Country Living enthusiasts, emerged as a direct counterpoint to the elaborate and mass-produced Victorian and Art Nouveau styles prevalent at the turn of the 20th century. Historic preservationist Elizabeth Finkelstein notes that Craftsman homes prioritize intentional, handcrafted design and a strong connection to nature. This aesthetic, rooted in the Arts & Crafts Movement, emphasizes clean lines, natural materials, and hand construction. The movement arose from a frustration with the perceived low quality of factory-produced items during the Industrial Revolution. While Wisconsin-born furniture designer Gustav Stickley is often credited with popularizing the Craftsman name through his magazine, 'The Craftsman,' the architectural style itself gained traction on the West Coast. Architects Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene, practicing in Pasadena from 1893 to 1914, were key figures in its development. Their iconic 1908 Gamble House stands as a prominent example, but it was their more modest single-family bungalows that inspired the widespread Craftsman house plans of the 1920s. Craftsman homes are typically characterized by their horizontal orientation, low-pitched gable roofs, and minimal ornamentation, contrasting sharply with the verticality of Victorians or the elaborate accents of Tudors. A defining feature is the spacious front porch, often supported by thick, tapering beams that may rest on brick or stone columns extending to the house's foundation. Other exterior elements commonly include overhanging roof eaves with exposed brackets or rafter tails, earth-toned paint colors (such as sage green, dusty brown, and golden yellow), large bay or picture windows, and a humble one to one-and-a-half-story frame, though larger variations exist. Exteriors are often finished with clapboard, stucco, or shingles, with brick being a common material in the Midwest. Inside, Craftsman homes offer cozy, distinct rooms rather than open floor plans, aiming to integrate the outdoors. Key interior features include lower slung coffered ceilings, thick, unpainted wood trim around doors and windows, and built-in elements like cabinets, bookshelves, and window seats. A focal fireplace, often adorned with decorative clay tiles, is a common centerpiece in the living or dining room. It's important to distinguish that 'Craftsman' refers to an architectural style, while 'bungalow' denotes a type of small house. Thus, a Craftsman bungalow is a specific subtype, but not all Craftsman homes are bungalows, and not all bungalows are Craftsman style. The term 'Craftsman' is capitalized when referring to the architectural style to honor the skilled labor involved in its construction. #CraftsmanStyleHomes #HomeDesign #ArtsAndCraftsMovement #ArchitecturalHistory #InteriorDesign #GustavStickley #GambleHouse #Bungalow #HomeDecor #HistoricPreservation

Perched in the hills of Santa Barbara County, California, this 3,000-square-foot residence is meticulously designed to maximize its scenic views. The homeowners, a former professional football player and his wife, engaged interior designer Corinne Mathern of her eponymous studio to craft a serene sanctuary bathed in year-round sunshine. The design draws inspiration from a blend of influences, notably the tranquil aesthetics of Aman Kyoto in Japan, which resonated with Mathern's own design philosophy for creating peaceful spaces. The interior palette directly mirrors the natural surroundings, incorporating pigmented blues, greens, and yellows. This chromatic scheme is complemented by an extensive use of earthy materials such as wood, clay, stone, and plaster, ensuring that the home feels deeply connected to its landscape. Mathern emphasized that deviating from these natural materials would have diminished the desired tranquil effect. The design ethos also incorporates elements from renowned architects; Mies van der Rohe's open concept, floor-to-ceiling doors, and windows facilitate a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, while Eileen Grey's influence is evident in the Mid-Century Modern touches. Alvar Aalto's emphasis on calmness further informs the overall atmosphere, resulting in a perfectly balanced space that invites contemplation and appreciation of the natural environment. The living room exemplifies this approach, featuring a palette of natural materials and neutral colors that extend the earthy vibe throughout the home. In the dining room, a custom table is strategically placed beneath a honey-colored pendant light, with artwork by Gala Porras Kim adding a focal point. The primary bedroom serves as a peaceful retreat, offering stunning views of Southern California, while an adjacent seating area is furnished with Mid-Century style armchairs by Nickey Kehoe. The primary bathroom continues the neutral color scheme, with accessories that maintain the home's cohesive aesthetic and views of natural vegetation. The kitchen is characterized by a neutral palette, where oak bar stools with dark green Maharam leather by Nickey Kehoe line the island. The media room provides a cozy ambiance with a dark green sofa by Living Divani. Externally, the roof deck is furnished with pieces from Restoration Hardware, offering an ideal spot to enjoy the panoramic views of Southern California. The overarching design objective was to create a harmonious link between the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the homeowners to experience them as a unified entity and fostering an environment that encourages relaxation and a connection to nature. #SantaBarbaraHome #InteriorDesign #CorinneMathernStudio #MidCenturyModern #NaturalMaterials #TranquilSpaces #IndoorOutdoorLiving #CaliforniaArchitecture #ResidentialDesign

In Los Angeles's Topanga Canyon, nestled among large boulders and ancient oak trees, lies a 1950s home designed by architect William Earl Wear for George R. and Jean E. Anderson. This low-slung structure, clad in concrete and old-growth redwood, is part of a compound now owned by multi-hyphenate artist Beatrice Faverjon. Faverjon, a ceramist who divides her time between California and Kauai, Hawaii, is known for her ceramic work and her passion for renovating and designing homes. However, when she acquired this particular property in 2016, her objective was not to undertake a complete redesign but rather to meticulously restore it to its original condition, a process that she notes is still ongoing. Initially, Faverjon's modifications were subtle yet significant. She linked the main house with the guest house through the addition of a galley kitchen, creating a seamless connection that makes the compound feel like one expansive home. The bathrooms underwent a thoughtful restoration, stripped back to their essence, and outfitted with fixtures that align with the home's original architectural style. Beyond these structural changes, Faverjon made aesthetic and functional enhancements. She reupholstered the living room's built-in furniture in rich gold velvet, a color chosen to complement the red tones of the wood and enhance the home's warmth. An area near the carport was repurposed to store her surfboard collection, reflecting her passion for surfing. The garden, which was initially bare, was revitalized exclusively with Californian native plants, aiming to restore the natural habitat and offer protection against fires and mudslides. Faverjon emphasizes that being surrounded by such beauty and craftsmanship deeply inspires her, pushing her to be a better artist and designer, and to pay closer attention to the construction of things, which she describes as a very positive influence on her life. Faverjon describes the house as a piece of art that needed significant care due to alterations made over the years. Her restoration process involved locating the original architectural plans to ensure authenticity. She recounts designing and building beds and desks in the smaller bedrooms to maximize efficiency, noting that one bedroom offers views of a large oak tree, while another is level with the garden. Her on-site ceramic studio, originally built by Wear and later expanded by Faverjon, is a fully concrete structure. Here, she finds inspiration in nature's colors, hand-building most of her ceramics with a focus on organic forms and a light touch with clay. She also repurposed an area under the carport, originally intended for tools, into a 'surf room' for her boards and wetsuits. In the primary bedroom, located on the second floor, the ceiling height mirrors that of the smaller bedrooms, maintaining a consistent aesthetic. While many furniture pieces are built-in and were designed by the original architect, Faverjon carefully selected additional freestanding pieces, prioritizing those that complement the house rather than standing out as statement pieces. She particularly values an old pine armchair near the coffee table. The original design by Wear also incorporated stonework, with concrete poured around rocks. The interplay of sunlight throughout the day creates dynamic light and shadow effects on the dark wood interiors. Faverjon notes Wear's inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright, evident in the home's similarities to Usonian Houses, which are characterized by their harmony with nature. The bathroom renovations involved removing dated additions, such as a large 1990s marble tub with jets. Faverjon installed terracotta tiles on the floor, added a shower, and actively sought out an original Crane sink to match the home's era. In another bathroom, she removed marble tiles to reveal and preserve the underlying concrete, leaving it in a raw state. The dining table, an English refectory table from the nineteenth century, was chosen for its narrow form and craftsmanship, which Faverjon felt aligned with the house's character. She is currently working on restoring the two cantilevered balconies, a project involving reframing, waterproofing, and recladding them with old-growth redwood. Faverjon expresses gratitude for living in a home that continuously inspires her. #MidcenturyModern #HomeRestoration #ArchitecturalPreservation #CeramistHome #TopangaCanyon #CaliforniaHomes #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #SustainableGardening

A barnhouse-style residence in Santa Rosa, California, is currently listed for $3.9 million, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of rustic living. The property, marketed by Sotheby's International Realty, harmoniously blends traditional farmhouse aesthetics with modern design elements. Situated just ten minutes from the city center, the single-level home features a distinctive pitched roof, which incorporates a large skylight to allow natural light into the interior spaces. The architectural design emphasizes a connection with nature, allowing the main living area to open up on three sides, providing expansive views of the surrounding gardens and a waterfall-fed pool and terrace. The structural framework of the house incorporates robust materials such as large stone bricks for the walls and exposed timber beams, establishing a rustic foundation. This traditional texture is juxtaposed with more contemporary finishes, including polished concrete floors and sleek marble counters, creating a sophisticated yet warm ambiance. The kitchen, a central feature of the home, is equipped with wooden cupboards and rattan light fittings, which contribute to the interior's warmth and inviting atmosphere. A practical and aesthetically integrated built-in wine storage area is conveniently located near the dining space. The residence encompasses four en-suite bedrooms, ensuring privacy and comfort for residents and guests alike. The design thoughtfully integrates indoor and outdoor living, promoting an immersive experience with the Californian landscape. The presence of large glass sliding doors not only enhances the visual connection to the outdoors but also facilitates an airy and open feel throughout the home. The overall design philosophy centers on creating a luxurious countryside retreat that maintains a strong sense of place while offering modern amenities and a refined living experience. The property is positioned as an ideal home for those seeking a blend of tranquil, rustic charm and contemporary elegance in a desirable California location. #SantaRosaProperty #CaliforniaHomes #RusticModern #FarmhouseStyle #LuxuryRealEstate #SothebysRealty #ArchitecturalDesign #ContemporaryLiving #CountrysideProperty

Lisa and Gary Mieran, owners of Akyrah Kitchens, designed and largely built their two-storey, industrial-style home with modernist influences in Gympie, Queensland. The house, completed in December 2019 after a two-stage construction, is situated on land historically owned by Lisa's family. The design draws inspiration from Heide II, a modernist icon in Melbourne, celebrating concrete, timber, abundant light, and earthy tones. Lisa envisioned a home that would rise organically from the earth, becoming an integral part of the landscape and improving with age. The structure features off-form concrete, walls of glass, and tactile timbers, with the lower storey clad in cedar and the upper storey in recycled hardwood. Steel balustrading, handcrafted by Gary, complements the exterior, which also includes a swimming pool with Andorra limestone pavers. The interior features a breezeway offering spectacular views and airflow, with ceilings made of Henley Oak Grove engineered timber. The foyer includes a BassamFellows 'Geometric' day bed and artworks by Steve Waller. Given their expertise with Akyrah Kitchens, the kitchen in their home is a highlight, featuring blackbutt veneer doors, Basaltina benchtops, Circa taps from Brodware, and Inax 'Ceravio G' tiles. The living areas include a guest sitting area with a B&B Italia 'Le Bambole' sofa and a living room with a Cheminées Philippe fireplace and Jardan furnishings. The home was built in two stages to accommodate their grown children, Taren and Kirra. The first stage was a self-contained flat, which served as their temporary residence during the main build and now functions as a guest wing. The main house and another guest wing are connected by glassed walkways, with the main bedroom suite located upstairs. This design allows for three self-contained bedrooms with ensuites, providing private quarters for everyone while centralizing communal living spaces. Practicality and functionality are key design principles, evident in the integrated laundry within the bathroom behind a blackbutt joinery feature wall, and the kitchen's two large islands designed for simplicity and ample storage. The materials used throughout the home emphasize natural elements. Recycled timber is used for the upper storey and blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the seamless flow of concrete from exterior to interior reinforces the architectural aesthetic. The home is designed for climate control, with generous light for winter warmth and cross-breezes for summer cooling. Lisa also undertook the landscaping, incorporating native plants like Xanthorrhoea, pandanus, native grasses, and succulents. The furniture, much of it Australian-made from brands like Jardan, is chosen for its timeless appeal and durability, reflecting the couple's preference for classic design over fleeting trends. The house stands as a testament to the couple's comprehensive involvement and shared vision, combining their professional skills with personal passions to create a harmonious and functional living space. #ModernistArchitecture #IndustrialStyle #ConcreteDesign #TimberAccents #SustainableMaterials #HomeDesign #OwnerBuilt #QueenslandHome #InteriorDesign

The Bay Area Home, a collaboration between Olson Kundig architecture firm and NICOLEHOLLIS interiors, presents a sophisticated blend of modern architecture and carefully curated interiors. This residence is designed to accommodate a family’s active and art-centric lifestyle within an established San Francisco Bay Area neighborhood. It functions as a serene retreat, integrating indoor and outdoor living through the incorporation of mature oak trees, reflective water features, and expansive garden views. Architect Tom Kundig's design strategically divides the home into distinct zones, offering both formal spaces for entertaining and more intimate areas for family life. This dual functionality provides a sense of openness while simultaneously fostering warmth and closeness. The design emphasizes a strong connection to nature through extensive use of glass walls and kinetic architectural elements, effectively blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. The home's entrance is marked by a dramatic black steel bridge spanning a lightwell, leading to a bronze pivoting front door that opens into an art-filled entryway. Large walls throughout the residence are dedicated to showcasing the family’s significant art collection, which includes works by artists such as Oscar Murillo and Alma Allen. Oversized glass windows ensure uninterrupted views of the surrounding lush landscape, further integrating the natural environment into the living experience. An Olympic-sized swimming pool runs along the axis of the primary suite, extending into a covered outdoor living area. Adjacent to the pool, a cabana houses a sauna, a cold plunge pool, and an outdoor gym, promoting an active and wellness-focused lifestyle for the residents. The formal wing of the house features reflecting pools and is framed by black steel columns. Two 13-foot pivoting glass doors allow ample natural light to penetrate the space. Custom elements, such as a botanical bronze screen created by artist David Wiseman, introduce intricate textures and artistic depth. Nicole Hollis highlighted this custom screen as one of the most distinctive design choices. In contrast to the formal areas, the family zones are designed for casual yet luxurious living. The kitchen, distinguished by a 28-foot-long Titiano marble island, extends onto a terrace. This outdoor extension includes dedicated areas for cooking and dining, sheltered beneath the cantilevered volume of the primary suite. The outdoor kitchen, pool, and sports facilities are central to encouraging an active lifestyle, with Kundig noting that the outdoor kitchen specifically extends the home’s energy into the landscape and the pool links the various recreational activities. The upper level of the home includes a tranquil primary suite, featuring a marble bathtub positioned to offer peaceful views of the tree canopy. A separate wing is dedicated to children, providing both privacy and play areas. The basement level contains a gym and a recreation room, which open into a landscaped lightwell, ensuring that even the lower sections of the home receive natural light. Nicole Hollis's interior design approach creates a serene and inviting atmosphere, thoughtfully contrasting soft furnishings with the home’s bold architectural lines. The selected materials and finishes are chosen to complement the exterior landscape, establishing a calming environment. This interplay between rigorous architecture and playful interior details ensures the space is both functional and refined, enhancing the overall livability of the home. The integration of various functional and aesthetic elements underscores a cohesive design vision, where every detail contributes to a harmonious and sophisticated living experience. #BayAreaHome #OlsonKundig #NicoleHollis #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #ArtIntegration #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign

Perched on a steep Sausalito hillside with expansive views of the San Francisco Bay, a unique home known as Lighthouse II, originally designed in the mid-1980s by architect Kirk Hillman, has undergone a significant renovation by San Francisco architect Mark English. The house, one of a pair of 'fraternal twins' with a distinctive pinwheel shape and hexagonal three-story plan, was acquired in 2014 by art and furniture collectors Fred and Robin Seegal. Their primary motivation for purchasing the property was its location and the immersive experience of living on the tram-accessible hillside. The original structure, while charming with its wooden elements and sloping eaves, was characterized by its closed-off, compartment-like rooms. English’s renovation aimed to transform this into an open and light-filled space, maximizing the stunning views without sacrificing the home’s inherent quirks. A major challenge in this endeavor was the property's location on a cliff in an earthquake zone, necessitating the replacement of the original timber frame with a seismic steel structure. This robust new framework was intentionally left exposed in parts, contributing a subtle industrial aesthetic to the otherwise white interiors. To open up the house, English removed most of the interior walls, particularly on the second floor where the kitchen, a central hub for Fred, now boasts a 180-degree view of the bay. Two fireplaces that obstructed the eastern view were also eliminated, and the eaves were raised to accommodate floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors. These structural changes effectively dissolved the traditional division of rooms, creating a fluid sequence of spaces where functionality is delineated by furniture arrangement, artwork, varying floor and ceiling heights, and shifts in light. This design approach allows for continuous discoveries and changing perspectives as one moves through the home, offering fresh interpretations of the surrounding bayscape and the couple's extensive art collection. The renovation process, which lasted two years, was complicated by the challenging site. All construction materials, including structural steel, windows, doors, and concrete, had to be transported by barge and then either craned or carried up from the dock. Despite these logistical difficulties and considerable effort, the Seegals found the breathtaking views and the transformation of their home well worth it. Following the successful renovation of Lighthouse II, the couple acquired the adjacent Lighthouse I, with Mark English slated to undertake a similar transformation. #ArchitecturalRenovation #SanFranciscoBay #ArtCollection #ModernHome #SausalitoArchitecture #MarkEnglishArchitects #PinwheelFloorPlan #SeismicUpgrade

In the Mar Vista neighborhood of Los Angeles, the architecture firm Hsu McCullough designed a new home, the Moore Residence, for a young family. The project arose after a planned renovation of their existing 1925 home revealed structural issues making a new build more feasible. The new design was carefully crafted to fulfill the family's needs while harmonizing with the surrounding 1920s and 1930s homes characteristic of the neighborhood. The family expressed a desire for a design that incorporated elements of California Mediterranean style, particularly in terms of materials and colors. They also sought numerous gathering spaces, both indoors and outdoors, to accommodate their family of four comfortably. Hsu McCullough responded to these requests by developing a white exterior featuring punched and horizontal windows, complemented by wood siding, wood decking, and black window frames. The chosen material palette is simple yet effective, and the design ensures that natural light floods every room. To create ample shared spaces as requested by the clients, the architects strategically downsized some bedrooms and consolidated closet and bathroom areas. The first floor of the residence is notably open, with the den and music room positioned near the kitchen. The kitchen seamlessly connects to the dining room, which further extends to an exterior dining deck. The dining room, in particular, establishes a strong indoor-outdoor connection through a floor-to-ceiling glass expanse that overlooks a textured concrete driveway. A central staircase, crafted from wood and metal, serves as a unifying element, echoing materials found throughout the home. The white oak of the staircase matches the ground floor's flooring, while its black oxide finish corresponds to the dark bronze of the doors and windows. A custom steel and Douglas fir wood trellis, stained in a custom color, provides sun relief, its light bouncing off the white walls. The second floor houses three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a substantial outdoor deck. This deck is equipped with a movie screen and a fire pit, designed for evening ocean breezes, while also offering privacy and shade. Windows line the common corridors on the second floor, ensuring it is well-lit. One of the children's bedrooms faces the street, benefiting from three arched windows that infuse the interior with light. The bathrooms on this level feature a combination of crisp white tiles and geometric blue patterns on the floors. The kitchen is designed to be light and bright, incorporating multiple windows, a sliding glass door, white countertops, a white tile backsplash, and gray cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore "Kendall Charcoal." The home's exterior is further defined by a modern wooden fence that complements the cedar plank siding on the second floor, enhancing the building's aesthetic day and night. Project details include Hsu McCullough as the architect of record, Gramajo's Custom Homes, Inc. as the contractor, Parker Resnick Structural Engineering for structural design, and Jay Griffith Landscape for landscape design. Appliances were sourced from Fisher & Paykel. #ModernArchitecture #LosAngelesHomes #CaliforniaMediterranean #ArtDecoInfluence #HsuMcCullough #IndoorOutdoorLiving #CustomHomeDesign #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

This article highlights the transformation of a Montecito estate by designer Christina Rottman, showcasing how it blends old-world charm with modern ease. The property, located between mountains and the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, captivates with its natural beauty and serves as a significant source of inspiration. The homeowners, having relocated from Colorado and previously the East Coast, were drawn to the house's unique connection to its surroundings, feeling suspended over the ocean and deeply connected to the earth. The original architecture, designed in 1992 by Bob Easton, is characterized by clear lines, large rooms, and a sensitivity to the landscape, reminiscent of Mexican modernist Luis Barragán. Rottman's design approach focused on creating a sophisticated yet family-friendly interior that avoids the coldness often associated with modernism. To achieve this, she incorporated ample texture and layers, moving away from the home’s initial Southwestern-influenced, rustic aesthetic. Key renovations included plastering over tongue-and-groove ceilings and built-in shelves to accommodate sleek lighting and contemporary art. Soaring steel-cased windows were adorned with linen sheers and silk or embroidered curtains, adding softness and elegance. In the dining room, Rottman introduced warmth with reclaimed wood siding from an old Santa Barbara barn, complemented by a geometric Hubert Le Gall pendant and a Jonathan Saiz wave painting. The kitchen cabinets were striéd in shades of turquoise and charcoal, bringing depth and color, with blue being a recurring motif inspired by the homeowners’ preferences. The furnishings throughout the house exhibit a 1940s French flair, combining vintage and new pieces with linear silhouettes and tactile fabrics. This selection harmonizes with the architecture’s angular grace, creating a comfortable and soothing atmosphere. The master suite features custom elements such as a canopy with C&C Milano fabrics and Kenneth Meyer trim, a Vaughan fabric headboard, and a vintage Syrian dresser. The bath includes Lefroy Brooks sink fittings, Urban Electric Co. sconces, Hansgrohe shower fittings, and Ann Sacks tiles. The hall showcases studded Jerry Pair leather closet doors and a Mansour rug, while the entry features a custom lantern, sconces, and walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove. Douglas Hoerr’s landscape design seamlessly extends the home’s living space, incorporating a cactus garden and various outdoor areas. The courtyard includes custom armchairs in Perennials fabric. The outdoor dining room is furnished with a custom table, vintage Maison K pendants, and Roost chairs in Perennials fabric, while the pool area features a Tuuci umbrella. The overall design successfully marries the dramatic natural setting with refined interiors, embodying the client's desire for an elegant yet comfortable home. The project reflects Barragán's philosophy that architecture should express serenity, a quality evident throughout the Montecito estate. #MontecitoEstate #ChristinaRottman #LuxuryDesign #CaliforniaHome #InteriorDesign #ModernTraditional #BobEastonArchitecture #CoastalLiving #LandscapeDesign

Studio Mesa undertook a significant renovation of a 10,500-square-foot, seven-bedroom, ten-bathroom property in Rancho Santa Fe, aiming to restore and enhance its original Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style. The previous owners had modernized the home, removing many of its distinctive Spanish design elements, which conflicted with the clients' desire for warmth, character, and a return to the home's authentic style. The project, led by partners Jill Norman and Cameron Shepherd of Studio Mesa, commenced in the fall of 2021 with a vision to reintroduce the historical architectural details prevalent in Rancho Santa Fe, one of the first planned communities to embrace this style in the 1920s. The single-story residence, built in 1990, features a private wing for bedrooms and a public wing for living and entertaining. The designers drew inspiration from the home's "resort-style" property, which includes four acres of lush gardens, mature fruit trees, and rolling hills, aiming to create a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces. The interior design references nature through textures like earthy terra cotta, plaster, oak, and eucalyptus tones, ensuring the home harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Key transformations included converting an unused music room into a cozy library bar, complete with herringbone wood floors, a custom bar, coffered ceilings, custom lighting, and a temperature-controlled wine cellar. A brick groin vault was added to the dining room, an office suite received curated bookshelves, and the family room was updated with a new Mediterranean-style fireplace and exposed beams. The kitchen, requiring the most extensive work, saw the removal of a partial wall to create a more open flow into the family room, and the introduction of a breakfast nook with a banquette, resulting in a lighter and brighter space. The property also features multiple detached casitas, a theater, a wellness space, an Olympic-length pool, outdoor kitchens, a solar farm, and customized sports courts. The interior details incorporated handmade tile from Tile Collective, custom area rugs from Modern Rugs LA, paint from Farrow & Ball, and a mix of new and vintage pieces from Chairish, antique stores, and estate sales, reflecting the designers' belief that interesting homes feel collected and lived in. Challenges included addressing the "hodgepodge of styles" left by previous renovations and working around existing hard finishes like brightly colored blown glass, gray tile floors, and thick onyx countertops. These were replaced with softer, warmer materials such as wool rugs, natural wood grain, terra cotta tile, and rich upholstery. The designers balanced the architectural drama and scale of the home with the clients' laid-back lifestyle, ensuring the spaces were elegant yet unfussy. The outcome was a home that feels significantly warmer, inviting, and personalized, infused with personal touches that hold meaning for the clients, ultimately transforming it into a cherished family home. #SpanishRevival #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RanchoSantaFe #StudioMesa #ArchitecturalRestoration #LuxuryHomes #SanDiegoInteriors #DesignTransformation