Inside a Vibrant Abode Where California Cool Meets the Scandinavian Summer Home

Architect David Montalba, known for his work along the Malibu coastline and in Santa Monica and Lausanne, designed a beachfront getaway retreat, dubbed the “Graoni house,” for a couple with college-age children. This project, technically a renovation, involved stripping the two-story interior to the studs and recladding the exterior with a charred-wood rainscreen, effectively transforming it into a new build. Montalba Architects collaborated with designer Cliff Fong, principal and founder of Matt Blacke studio, on this 2,950-square-foot, three-bedroom residence. The couple, described as "huge design enthusiasts," had previous design relationships with both Montalba and Fong, having worked with Fong on several residences over 30 years, including a semi-brutalist steel, glass, and concrete structure in Beverly Hills, and with Montalba on an L.A. store featuring polished concrete, rough stucco, and exposed ceiling beams. The Malibu house was intended to be the “alter ego of Beverly Hills,” focusing on an organic, cozy, and inviting aesthetic that was chic yet unostentatious, allowing the family to relax. It embodies a blend of California cool and Swiss precision. The structure, perched over 16 feet above current sea level, consists of two stacked, terraced volumes made of glass, steel, and wood. The exterior features vertical pine fins blackened with shou sugi ban charring, which helps the house integrate with its natural surroundings while adding a dramatic touch. The interior predominantly uses blond wood, including wire-brushed Douglas fir planks for floors and ceilings, white-oak cabinetry, and light-toned stonework. The entry sequence is meticulously designed. The entry court, located at the back of the property, is defined by a charred-wood gate and a dark plastered retaining wall, creating a compressed space that contrasts with the expansive views inside. Upon entering the main living area, a 180-degree natural panorama unfolds, with the ocean visible through glass walls flanking a large stone fireplace. To the left, an undeveloped bluff appears close, and a secluded courtyard is visible through an adjoining den. The kitchen and dining area, extending towards the water, can merge seamlessly with the full-width beachfront deck via retractable floor-to-ceiling glazing. The interior spaces possess a strong aesthetic appeal. The living area features a monumental fireplace crafted from rough-cut granite, meticulously calibrated by the architect. Furnishings include a live-edge walnut cocktail table and a Hans Wegner CH-22 teak armchair. The dining area includes Pierre Jeanneret’s teak-and-cane Chandigarh chairs and a 19th-century French pine table. The kitchen incorporates a hidden, pocket-sized bar with marble, brass, and oak, and a powder room with John Pawson’s minimalist stone-column sink and faucet, reflecting Montalba’s focus on bespoke detailing. A stairwell, lined with shelves for art objects and topped with operable clerestories, is concealed behind the kitchen wall. Upstairs, the main bedroom suite is structured into three parts. The sleeping area, which opens to its own oceanfront deck, is connected to a large walk-in closet that also functions as a small office, featuring a live-edge surface in a window nook. This leads to a spa-like bathroom, clad in Brechia di Nola marble. Two additional bedrooms and bathrooms accommodate guests or family members. Construction delays due to COVID provided ample time for Fong to curate the furnishings, mixing vintage and contemporary pieces with the owners’ existing collection, creating a personalized and characterful ensemble. #MalibuBeachfront #LuxuryHome #CoastalDesign #MontalbaArchitects #MattBlackeStudio #ShouSugiBan #InteriorDesign #RenovationProject #ModernArchitecture

This article details a new-build waterfront home on Bonita Beach's Hickory Boulevard, which embodies a California contemporary style. The residence, designed by Jennifer Sloan of Design & Company in collaboration with builder Gary Lau, features a minimalist aesthetic with a focus on pale woods, organic textures, and sun-soaked spaces, all strategically designed to maximize the panoramic Gulf views. The exterior showcases bright-white stucco, black iron detailing, wood-paneled garage doors, and stacked stones, creating a blend of modernity and natural elements. Wood planks on the front entry ceiling provide a softening touch to the facade. The interior design emphasizes a cohesive material palette, starting with the entry's French white oak railing and matte black spokes, complemented by porcelain tile floors. An abstract black-and-white oil painting above a walnut console adds a contrasting element. The great room, located on an upper floor, is the central hub, featuring wide French white oak plank floors and oak ceiling beams with hidden LED lighting that provide a soft glow and visual interest. A wall of sliding doors, framed in simple black casings with subtle drapes, offers expansive views of the Gulf, which is the primary focal point of the home. To ensure the interior complements the stunning natural scenery, the designer utilized a restrained color palette and low-profile furnishings. The entertaining area includes angular Vanguard sofas and teak chairs with brass detailing, placed on a natural fiber rug. A clean-lined white coffee table and white marble side tables with metal legs echo the home's material scheme. Kravet Couture pillows with a watercolor-inspired pattern add softness, while a round black metal chandelier provides a touch of industrial elegance. The built-in bar features a single quartzite slab extending from the countertop to the soffit, with floating wood-and-metal shelving. Matte black built-ins with antique gold picture lights contribute to a rich aesthetic, drawing inspiration from a "Ralph Lauren feel." The kitchen, integrated into the open floor plan, features a swooping oak range hood with black trim and floating shelves with inset lighting for both storage and display. Round pendants illuminate the white quartz island. The adjacent dining area incorporates organic elements through warm mosaic tiling, a live-edge table, and a woven chandelier, connecting the interior to the beach environment. The main lanai extends the living space outdoors with black metal chairs and a weather-resistant teak-look Durawood table, along with black wicker-looking seating, maintaining consistency in style and materials. The home's five bedrooms, two on the primary level and three on the top floor, continue the California contemporary theme with unique touches. Examples include a raffia-wrapped bed with a textured yarn chandelier, and a black headboard contrasting with organic wood-trunk patterns. Tray ceilings in each room are accented with oak beams, edging, or inset trim that harmonizes with the flooring. The primary suite features white oak beams against glossy tongue-and-groove panels, a two-tone canopy bed, and a wood bead chandelier. A small flex-use room with a bar and lanai next to the primary suite offers an alternative view of the Gulf. The five baths, two powder rooms, and a pool bath each interpret the black-white-natural color scheme uniquely. The primary bathroom boasts large-format marble tile with onyx streaks and a rich walnut linen cabinet. The powder room features backlit floating panels, creating a glowing effect. Another bath highlights craftsmanship with traditional inset drawers. Many showers utilize a ‘color-blocking’ technique, combining chevron-patterned tiles, marble mosaics, and striated stone to add textural depth while adhering to the home's overall design scheme. The design aims to create a sophisticated yet comfortable living environment. #HomeTours #CaliforniaCool #WaterfrontHome #InteriorDesign #DesignInspiration #ModernArchitecture #GulfView #LuxuryLiving

Summer Jensen, CEO and principal of Hawk & Co., designed the interiors of a California coastal home, emphasizing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design draws inspiration from the home's sweeping views and the rustic-meets-industrial architectural style, reminiscent of Napa Valley. Jensen, influenced by her Hawaiian upbringing, prioritizes nature in her designs, ensuring ample natural light and seamless transitions between interior and exterior living areas. The home's structure, created by Brandon Architects, provided a minimalist foundation. Jensen focused on architectural cues to inform the interior design, integrating elements like a staggered batten wood-paneled wall near the fireplace that extended to disguise kitchen cabinets. Skylights, particularly in the primary bath, were incorporated to harness natural light, aiding in regulating circadian rhythms. The design also features innovative solutions like barely perceptible kitchen cabinets, veiled by the same staggered batten wood-paneling for a cohesive look. One distinctive feature is a brewmaster’s bar on the lower level, equipped with 16 microbrews on tap and illuminated by a unique lighting sculpture, offering a sophisticated and entertaining space. The living room opens directly onto a patio, further enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience and maximizing the coastal views. Throughout the home, warm wood tones create a sense of continuity, extending into the primary bedroom. The exterior of the home also aligns with the rustic-industrial aesthetic, reflecting the design inspiration from Napa Valley. The project highlights a harmonious blend of architectural simplicity, natural inspiration, and functional design, creating a striking and livable coastal retreat. #CoastalLiving #CaliforniaHomes #IndoorOutdoorDesign #SummerJensen #HawkAndCo #RusticIndustrial #NaturalLight #HomeInteriors #ResidentialDesign

A young family in Vienna embarked on a custom home-building project with the primary goal of creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment to raise their three children through high school. They selected a half-acre lot within walking distance of James Madison High School, establishing an ideal setting for their long-term vision. To bring their dream home to fruition, the family collaborated with Thomas French Architects, Somerville Homes, and Christina Simon of CS Design, the latter playing a pivotal role in the interior design elements. Christina Simon described the overall inspiration for the home as a blend of Pacific Northwest and California styles, subtly infused with Scandinavian touches. Her involvement encompassed a wide range of design choices, including tile selections, plumbing and light fixtures, interior built-ins and cabinetry, countertops, and paint colors, alongside integrating special features throughout the residence. The design philosophy emphasized functionality as much as aesthetics, a crucial consideration for a family with three children and a dog. One striking feature is the floor-to-ceiling stacked marble-brick fireplace, serving as a focal point in the open main-floor living room. The kitchen, designed for user-friendliness, spans 300 square feet and incorporates L-shaped island seating, a dedicated coffee zone, and extensive compartmentalized organization. The homeowners expressed a desire for a high-contrast palette, which CS Design executed through a combination of dark and light cabinetry, mixed metals, and lighter wood tones as accents. The aim was to achieve a timeless yet modern feel with an organic vibe, ensuring practical organizational solutions for seamless daily routines. Key kitchen features include a coffee station, a large apron sink, custom storage drawers and cupboards, a steam oven integrated into the island, paneled refrigeration, and open display shelves finished in a light natural tone that is echoed on the range hood. White oak flooring runs throughout the home, complemented by white walls. Numerous windows connect the interior spaces with the natural outdoor scenery, offering views of trees and lush landscapes. Adjacent to the kitchen is a well-appointed pantry featuring built-in appliances such as a microwave oven and wine fridge, alongside an expansive work surface and ample shelf storage. This pantry mirrors some design elements from the main kitchen, including open natural wood shelving and white quartz countertops, reinforcing the cohesive design. The mudroom, which also serves as a first-floor office, exemplifies efficient organization and opens directly onto the home's backyard. It incorporates a modest home office area and a spacious mudroom, emphasizing the connection between indoor and outdoor living. The mudroom includes a tall floor-to-ceiling cabinet connected to a built-in desk, providing abundant storage and a dedicated workspace for the homeowner. A wall-mounted family calendar and individual cubbies for each child, complete with hooks and a bench, ensure effective organization for a busy family. The high-contrast theme continues here with a natural wood bench against black cabinetry and white walls, while porcelain tile flooring ensures durability for high-traffic use. The dining room features a light wood table paired with child-friendly molded plastic chairs. Linen slip-covered host-and-hostess chairs add a touch of warmth and refinement, while a black-metal horizontal contemporary chandelier with exposed bulbs defines the space. A long, custom-designed sideboard with open cube shelving and closed storage further integrates the dining area within the open floor plan. The homeowners described it as a transitional dining space, adaptable for both casual and formal occasions, and emphasized its modern, purposeful, and family-friendly design. The stairwell is bathed in natural light, featuring steel cable railings and a spiky black chandelier, grounded by a natural wood handrail. The master bathroom continues the design language with gray porcelain floor tiles, a double vanity with rift-cut oak cabinets, quartz countertops, and black-framed mirrors. A freestanding soaking tub and a walk-in glass-walled shower are unified by a wall of decorative white tiles with darker grouting, and black-framed paned windows provide views of the surrounding trees. #CustomHome #Vienna #ScandinavianDesign #CaliforniaStyle #ModernFarmhouse #FunctionalDesign #FamilyLiving #InteriorDesign

This article highlights the recent redesign of a four-bedroom farmhouse-style home located in Montecito, California, specifically in the Hedgerow neighborhood. The property, originally built in the 1970s, offers a secluded setting with a stunning garden and views of the Montecito mountains. Despite its idyllic location, the home presented interior design challenges before its transformation into a perfect retreat. The homeowners, a young family, enlisted interior designer Hayley English to create an unpretentious, youthful take on traditional farmhouse style, incorporating coastal decor elements. The primary goal was to establish a better backdrop for vacations and casual gatherings, as well as to improve the overall flow of the space. English focused on softening the home's original aesthetic and enhancing its warmth. In the kitchen, the designer opted for white units, moving beyond the often predictable and unremarkable nature of white kitchens. She introduced humble materials like a butcher block island and rattan chairs to create a surprisingly warm atmosphere. Feminine floral fabrics were used for drapery and upholstery, adding a softer touch, complemented by grosgrain cushion ties for a whimsical and chic feel. A vintage rug in muted shades of pink and gold further contributed to the warm color scheme. Key pieces in the kitchen include a pendant light from Hector Finch (Harbinger), barstools from Serena & Lily with Lisa Fine cushion fabric, and other fabrics from Soane Britain and Fermoie. The dining room, an open-plan area connected to the living room, was designed for a casual and comfortable ambiance. The wooden tabletop, intended to bear the marks of years of family gatherings, anchors the space. Chairs from Redford House with cushions from Schuyler Samperton (Jasper Showroom), Match Pewter candleholders, and table linen from Connected Goods complete the setting. For the living room, which serves as the first impression for guests, an open floor plan was strategically implemented to ensure optimal flow and an airy feel. A light color palette was chosen as a foundation, with pops of earth tones in the upholstery playing off the stone fireplace surround. Denim blues were integrated to introduce a coastal element. Antiques and vintage accessories were curated to create a traditional, relaxed, and welcoming atmosphere. The pitched ceiling with white clapboard paneling further reinforces the coastal theme. Notable items in this space include ottomans upholstered in Lisa Fine fabric, a coffee table from Redford House, a rug from Jamal Rugs, and throw pillows from Nickey Kehoe. The artwork throughout the home, including the living room, consists of vintage, commissioned, and antique pieces depicting California scenery, unifying the color schemes. The primary bedroom was designed to be unique and nostalgic, featuring a tall four-poster bed with crisp linen drapes that complement the cathedral ceiling. Key elements include a Serena & Lily bedframe, a bed cover from Chelsea Textiles, a quilt from Les Indiennes (Nickey Kehoe), drapery from Schumacher, and sconces by Mark Sikes for Hudson Valley Lighting. Another bedroom adopted a cheerful, English cottage style, featuring pale green walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Guilford Green.' This room stands out for its playful mix of patterns and colors. Drapery by Penny Morrison, a quilt from Nicky Kehoe, a lampshade from Maison Maison, and pillowcases from ST Frank (Over the Moon) contribute to its distinctive character. A third bedroom exhibits a sophisticated yet approachable design with a punchy palette. Cool blue walls, painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Woodlawn Blue,' and elements like a cane bed and woven wood shades incorporate coastal motifs. The bedframe is from Serena & Lily, the quilt from Neem (Nicky Kehoe), euro pillow fabric from Décors Barbares Tissus Tartares, and pillowcases from Annie Selke. All photographs for the project were taken by Sara Tramp, with styling by Lauren May. #MontecitoHome #FarmhouseStyle #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #HayleyEnglishInteriors #HomeRenovation #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDecor #BedroomIdeas

The latest lookbook curated by Dezeen showcases a collection of eight Scandinavian summer houses distinguished by their extraordinary interiors. These vacation homes, located across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, move beyond traditional cabin designs to present imaginative architectural and interior solutions. The lookbook is part of a series that offers visual inspiration from Dezeen's extensive archive, focusing on themes such as minimalist bedrooms, colorful resin floors, and statement staircases. The featured homes exemplify diverse approaches to modern Scandinavian summer living. Heatherhill Beach House in Denmark, designed by Norm Architects, incorporates a contemporary feel with a brick floor laid in a grid pattern, contrasting with traditional elements. Douglas fir wall paneling, a dolomite plaster fireplace, and a marble kitchen island define its interior. Saltviga House in Norway by Kolman Boye Architects creatively utilizes timber flooring offcuts, cladding its exterior in oak and furnishing its interior with waste Douglas fir, providing cabinet fronts and smooth screed floors, along with steeply sloping ceilings and expansive window walls. Förstberg Ling's House with a Hidden Atrium in Denmark features a secluded central courtyard accessible only through the toilet, with varying ceiling heights and a double-height main bedroom creating dramatic spatial experiences. Hee House in Sweden, by Studio Ellsinger, is characterized by its distinctive hat-shaped aluminum roof and high ceilings. The design cleverly integrates an expansive bookshelf wall to create split-level bedrooms and double-height living spaces, maximizing space with features like a built-in stove, compact kitchen, and corner bench. Mentze Ottenstein’s renovation of the Dinesen Country Home in Denmark, a 19th-century longhouse, introduces soft color tones and contemporary twists on period furniture. This guesthouse features a dark brown library with ash bookshelves, a forest-green kitchen, and pale yellow reception rooms. Vipp Cold Hawaii in Denmark, designed by Hahn Lavsen for the homeware brand Vipp, is organized around two large chimneys that divide the interior into three sections. The eastern section houses the living space and an anodized aluminum kitchen, with furniture in neutral shades mirroring the surrounding dune landscape. Cabin Nordmarka in Norway, by Rever & Drage, features a large, unusually shaped window that dictates its compact, open-plan layout. The dining area offers expansive forest views, while sleep spaces are strategically placed away from the window, and a bed platform provides under-floor storage. Finally, Villa Vassdal in Sweden, designed by Studio Holmberg, uses birch plywood for walls and built-in furniture to create a monolithic yet warm interior on a small Gothenburg archipelago island. Built-in bookshelves and soft furnishings add subtle color accents. This collection of summer houses highlights innovative design and thoughtful integration with nature, redefining the traditional Scandinavian summer retreat. #ScandinavianDesign #SummerHouses #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #NordicArchitecture #ContemporaryLiving #HolidayHomes #CabinDesign #VacationRetreats

This article details the construction of a new Edina home for Kara and Jason Allcox, which integrates European and Californian design influences through specific architectural and interior design choices. The homeowner, Kara Allcox, had a clear vision for the house even before the family relocated to Minnesota, meticulously planning every detail. Her design aspirations included a German smear exterior, rounded bullnose corners on interior walls, plaster for the fireplace, exposed ceiling beams, arches, and built-in features to achieve an old-world European aesthetic. She also pre-selected light fixtures and cabinet hardware, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to the home's design. The Allcoxes, having previously renovated their Chicago townhouse, decided to build a new home in the Minneapolis area to be closer to family. They partnered with City Homes, a custom builder in the Twin Cities, and selected a corner lot in Edina, valued for its urban feel within a suburban setting, close to local shops and restaurants. Architect Tom Flint from Alexander Design Group was engaged to bring Kara’s vision to life, focusing on a design that combined European sensibilities with a California vibe, emphasizing abundant natural light. The team successfully incorporated specific details such as an arched front door, a brick firebox, and a subtle herringbone pattern throughout the home, which appears in the white oak flooring of an upstairs hallway. Rebecca Remick, principal and general manager of City Homes, noted the extensive detailing in the house, where every space features unique elements. The design incorporates numerous arches, starting from the custom front door and extending into the living room, complementing a floating staircase that maximizes natural light. The interior walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Snowfall White with a matte finish, providing a neutral backdrop for furniture and artwork. The TV room includes a fireplace wall finished in plaster, deliberately designed without a tempered glass door to evoke an old-world aesthetic, alongside exposed ceiling beams. Material selections were crucial in achieving the desired casual yet sophisticated atmosphere. Kara chose honed quartzite for the kitchen countertops and backsplash, avoiding shiny materials. Unlacquered brass cabinet hardware with a living finish was used, intended to develop a patina over time, and various metals were mixed throughout the house to add character. Vintage-looking pendants from Ann-Morris were a favorite fixture in the kitchen. The kitchen layout strategically places the sink on the perimeter rather than the island, with an arched opening above it providing a partial view outside while maintaining privacy. The butler's pantry was designed with extensive cabinetry, including a refrigerator and freezer drawer, reflecting a desire for ample storage space. The primary bedroom features painted beams and a shiplap-clad cove ceiling, creating a grand and distinctive space. A transom window was incorporated to allow more natural light. The primary bathroom continues the no-sheen theme with a matte tub and honed marble countertops and tile flooring, avoiding a glitzy appearance. An Italian tub was perfectly fitted into a vaulted alcove, a design modification resulting from a permit issue that ultimately enhanced the space. Under-counter lighting with motion detection was installed beneath the white oak vanity, adding a modern and practical touch. The project involved collaborations with City Homes as the builder, Alexander Design Group for architecture, and Studio M Interiors for interior design. #HomeDesign #EuropeanInfluence #CaliforniaVibe #CustomBuild #InteriorDetails #ArchitecturalDesign #EdinaHome #NaturalLight #VintageElements

The I/O Cabin, a holiday home designed by local studio Erling Berg, is situated on Norway's southern coast in Risør, offering ocean views. This wooden structure, clad in locally sourced spruce, is elevated from the ground by wooden pillars, adapting to the sloped terrain of the site. The design features three distinct volumes, interconnected by a wooden deck, forming a central atrium. This configuration aims to create dynamic "inside-outside" spaces, catering to Norway's rapidly changing climate, which often transitions between sunny and rainy periods within a single day. The studio's objective was to ensure easy access between indoor and outdoor areas, fostering seamless circular and visual connections. The site, characterized by its solid rock formation, provides extensive views towards the southwest coast, including the Skagerrak strait and Denmark. The cabin's volumes are supported by a wooden deck, which is raised above the ground by cross-laminated timber beams. These beams also extend to support the home's cantilevered roof, strategically shaped and placed to offer sun shading while allowing ample light into the central atrium and providing protection from rain. Erling Berg's architectural vision draws inspiration from both the horizontal lines of mid-century Californian architecture and traditional Norwegian building methods. Erling Berg, having spent significant time in California, emphasizes the fusion of functional aspects found in mid-century Californian homes with the practicalities of Norwegian vernacular architecture and its conventional construction techniques. The concept of the deck and roof framework, connected by vertical pillars extending to the untouched ground, was inspired by the larger steel frames prevalent in mid-century homes in the Los Angeles hills. Upon entering the I/O Cabin, the transitional indoor-outdoor atrium leads into the main living space, four bedrooms, and a shower area, all arranged in a U-shape around this central hub. Inside, the walls are finished with white-painted horizontal wood siding, while the ceilings and floors feature white oiled spruce timber. This material palette creates a warm yet bright aesthetic, characteristic of traditional Norwegian coastal cabins. The choice of materials is rooted in local, genuine resources and a color scheme commonly found in Norwegian summer houses from the 1950s and 60s. This functional palette combines the warmth of wood textures with white painted panels, contributing to an interior that feels cool, yet inviting and luminous. A prominent design element within the living room is a V-shaped timber column, which allows for a corner glass window. This feature maximizes views of the natural surroundings, further enhancing the cabin's "inside-outside" quality. Erling Berg, the founder of the Norwegian studio, previously worked with Mork-Ulnes Architects on projects such as a concrete guesthouse in California's wine country. Other notable architectural projects in Norway include Snøhetta's mass-timber home perched on a hillside in Kongsberg and Feste Landscape/Architecture's series of wooden cabins for hikers in the Agder region mountains. The photography for the I/O Cabin was carried out by Carlos Rollán. #HolidayHome #WoodenArchitecture #SpruceWood #NorwegianDesign #CoastalLiving #InsideOutsideLiving #CrossLaminatedTimber #MidCenturyModernInfluence #ErlingBerg

This article details a comprehensive whole-house remodel of a Mediterranean-style home in Danville, California, built in the early 2000s. The objective of the renovation, undertaken by interior designer Nicole Salceda and her firm Eye for Pretty, was to transform the existing structure into a bright, comfortable, and transitional family living space. The project involved updating every surface, including flooring, walls, cabinets, and paint, over six months, during the initial phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, which required careful management of crews and restrictions. The clients provided minimal input, allowing the design team significant freedom to execute their vision. The remodel began by addressing the entry, where a wide hallway with a sweeping curved staircase was transformed. New hardwood flooring and a minimal staircase balustrade were installed, alongside a gallery wall on the upstairs landing. This open hallway now connects directly to the new kitchen, creating a central hub for the home. The existing builder-grade finishes were replaced to achieve a more bespoke and comfortable aesthetic suitable for a young family. The kitchen underwent a significant upgrade, focusing on both beauty and functionality. Key features include gray perimeter cabinetry, a soapstone counter and backsplash, including a soapstone sink, and a white oak island with open shelving. Integrated appliances and a Calacatta quartz island top were incorporated, complemented by cognac leather counter stools. The design aims to provide a comfortable and practical space for the family. An open-concept living area was created, encompassing an informal dining space and a family room. The dining area features a rustic, pale wood table with a smart white top, echoing the kitchen's soapstone counters, paired with rush-seated dining chairs. The family room emphasizes functionality and a streamlined design, aiming for a cozy, organic, and comfortable environment. It includes a luxurious sectional sofa in a soft off-white shade, adorned with pastel pillows, and a window seat for additional seating during gatherings. A black console table visually separates the seating and dining areas within the open-plan layout, enhancing organization. A pale wood coffee table further integrates the natural elements present throughout the adjacent dining area and kitchen. The sectional sofa's configuration helps define a more intimate zone within the larger open space. For more formal occasions, a dedicated dining room is strategically tucked into a corner of the remodeled open-plan living area. This space features a sophisticated scheme with a dark wood round table that can be extended for larger parties. Textural artworks are displayed in a gallery arrangement, and a contemporary Roxy Chandelier serves as a prominent focal point. Additionally, a formal living room offers a retreat from the main family activities. This snug area maintains a sophisticated aesthetic, featuring a vintage-look sofa and armchairs upholstered in a windowpane check pattern. A Montauk black stripe rug from Eye for Pretty ties the room's elements together. The primary bedroom was designed with a focus on luxury and tranquility. A contemporary four-poster bed provides structure without overwhelming the space, contributing to a calm and neutral environment ideal for rest. A seascape painting is neatly integrated into the bedframe, creating a 'frame within a frame' effect. The bathroom received a luxurious update, featuring marble finishes on both the walls and counters. A freestanding tub with gray-blue sides is positioned under a window, and an intricately tessellated tiled floor adds visual interest to the space. Overall, the remodel successfully transformed the home into a series of inspiring and comfortable living spaces. #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaHomes #OpenPlanLiving #TransitionalStyle #KitchenDesign #LuxuryLiving #FamilyHome #NeutralPalette

This article details the transformation of a four-bedroom California bungalow on Sydney's Lower North Shore, owned by designer Jennie Cadman of Periwinkle Interiors. The renovation was undertaken to accommodate her growing family, which includes her husband and four children, aged between two and 12. Despite having completed a renovation on their previous home nearby, it proved insufficient for their needs, prompting the family to acquire this bungalow in 2018. The property was appealing due to its 'great bones,' featuring high ceilings, spacious bedrooms, a predominantly single-level layout, and a generous backyard. Previous owners had also effectively utilized the attic space, converting it into an additional bedroom and a family room. However, the bungalow presented challenges, particularly its dark and inefficient floor plan in the 1990s addition. This section included a bedroom and laundry overlooking the garden, a space Jennie felt was better suited for a living area. A significant issue was the lack of kitchen bench space, compelling Jennie to prepare meals on the stovetop. To address these functional shortcomings and improve the home's flow, the family engaged architect Adam Hampton of Hampton Architecture in 2019. Their primary goals were to design a new extension with a living area that maximized garden views, reconfigure the misplaced bedroom, and incorporate an ensuite for their eldest child, who needed a private bathroom. Today, the renovated home features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that occupies almost the entire left side of the house. A distinct sitting room is situated between this open-plan space and the entry, while the main bedroom suite and family bathroom are located to the right of the entry. The children’s bedrooms now overlook the backyard, and the pitched roof of the upper level houses a study and a family room. The kitchen, designed as the central hub, connects seamlessly to the new living room and the backyard. A notable architectural feature of the extension is its pitched roofline, which mirrors the original front facade and achieves an impressive height of approximately 4 meters, enhanced by skylights, to create an expansive and airy feel. Innovative design choices include a 1.4x1.1-meter cool room in place of a traditional fridge, providing an efficient way to store groceries. Jennie also specifically requested that all storage be below bench height, accommodating her stature. In the dining area, French doors were added, opening onto a deck overlooking the front garden and pool, with a sheltered sitting area beneath. Windows in the children’s bedrooms were enlarged, and the attic family room gained a balcony to further integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. The main bedroom was reconfigured to enlarge both the ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. The interior design, largely overseen by Jennie, showcases a bold navy blue palette, particularly prominent in the sitting room through artworks and soft furnishings. This is contrasted with vibrant pops of red and orange, seen in a Knoll ‘Womb’ chair and a patchwork kilim in the dining area. Jennie intentionally created a contrast between formal and informal spaces, with the casual living room being bright and airy, and the sitting room designed to be darker and more intimate. Texture plays a crucial role, with materials such as a linen modular sofa, linen curtains, timber floors, tongue-and-groove joinery, a concrete plinth, and a marble coffee table in the family room. The main bathroom features smooth marble, while the kitchen employs dolomite for benchtops and splashbacks, complemented by walnut veneer and brass finishes. Jennie identifies the sitting room as her favorite space, appreciating its cozy and enveloping atmosphere. #CaliforniaBungalow #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalExtension #OpenPlanLiving #NavyInteriors #CathedralCeilings #KitchenDesign #OutdoorLiving

Maka Arkitektur designed Summerhouse Bjäre, a contemporary holiday home located in a coastal village on Sweden's Bjäre peninsula. The design objective was to create a simplified interpretation of traditional local houses, characterized by their pitched roofs and unadorned materials, while integrating modern elements and adapting the structure to its specific site. The architects sought to achieve a timeless aesthetic that echoes traditional building techniques, such as brick and stone courtyard houses, yet remains distinctly contemporary in its execution. The 500-square-meter property was conceived to accommodate three generations of a single family, necessitating an efficient use of space that simultaneously preserves ample outdoor areas. The house features a straightforward orthogonal layout, comprising a primary living volume and two wings positioned at either end. One of these wings functions as a detached guest annex, offering enhanced privacy. This configuration of interconnected volumes is strategically arranged around a central courtyard garden, providing shelter from the strong coastal winds prevalent in the exposed fishing village. The courtyard also benefits from the shade of a mature cherry tree, enhancing comfort during summer months. The ground floor of the main building houses the social areas, including the living room, kitchen, and dining area, all of which are situated along the perimeter of the courtyard. Expansive glazed surfaces, fitted with sliding doors, allow these interior spaces, along with the guest house, to seamlessly open onto the garden, fostering an indoor-outdoor living experience. A staircase near the entrance leads to the upper floor, which contains two bedrooms and a lounge area. This lounge space overlooks a void that vertically connects the two levels of the house. Additionally, a door on the upper floor provides access to a roof terrace, offering panoramic views of the village rooftops and the surrounding ocean. In contrast to the open and permeable facades facing the courtyard, the gabled front facade, which is visible from the street, incorporates minimal openings. This side of the house is further defined by flanking walls and fences that shield the garden from public view, ensuring privacy. The exterior walls are finished with a lime stucco, creating a homogenous, textured surface. This is complemented by a meticulously detailed pre-patinated zinc roof, with copper and brass accents introducing warmth to the overall material palette. The interior design emphasizes natural materials, evident in the oak flooring and solid timber joinery used throughout the home. The furniture selection combines classic Scandinavian pieces from designers such as Bruno Mathsson, Borge Mogensen, and Märta Maas-Fjetterström with contemporary items by brands like Massproductions, Örsjö, Pandul, and Norrgavel. This curated blend contributes to a design that feels both timeless and modern. The project was undertaken by Maka Arkitektur, with Ylva der Hagopian and Daniel Hedner as key members of the project team. The photography documenting the summerhouse was captured by Åke E:son Lindman. The design successfully marries traditional Swedish architectural elements with contemporary needs, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing holiday home for multi-generational use. #HolidayHome #SwedishArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #GabledRoof #CoastalLiving #MultiGenerationalHome #ModernDesign #NaturalMaterials

This article showcases a newly constructed Tuscan-style villa in Valley Village, Los Angeles, designed by Shlomi Sfadia of SLS Properties. Completed in 2024, the five-bedroom home integrates contemporary Italian style with relaxed California living, drawing inspiration from Sfadia's travels in Italy to create a unique blend of rustic, organic, and modern aesthetics. The designer aimed to infuse the brand-new property with character and warmth, transforming it into a space that transports its inhabitants. The design focuses on creating a sense of 'La Dolce Vita' in California. The kitchen, situated at the heart of an open-plan family room, features white oak cabinetry, natural plaster walls, and a large island with a white countertop and built-in stovetop. It also incorporates classic modern farmhouse elements like open shelves with rustic pegs and a farmhouse sink. The living room, adjacent to the kitchen, is defined by a Mediterranean-revival arched fireplace and natural lime plaster walls, which soften the new construction and provide a rustic, organic backdrop. Reclaimed wood alcove shelves add a touch of patina and character. Spaciousness is a key design element, with natural wood flooring and a wall of sliding glass doors in the living area opening to a landscaped backyard. The outdoor space is designed as a continuation of the Tuscan theme, featuring plants commonly found in Italian villas such as olive trees, cypress, rosemary, and lavender, ensuring a cohesive design from inside out. The downstairs area, while open-plan, maintains distinct zones, including a cozy dining alcove with an elegant arched window. A classic Mediterranean-style arch also frames the staircase. One of the home's highlights is the upstairs landing, treated as a room in its own right, complete with a rustic lime plaster fireplace and a built-in bench seat, aligning with current staircase trends. The primary bedroom combines rustic and textural details, featuring a contemporary paneled accent wall that bridges the gap between the lime plaster and modern villa aesthetics. Steel-framed glass doors and a balcony connect the bedroom to the outdoors. The seven bathrooms in the house feature clean, minimal plaster finishes, inspired by historic Moroccan designs, and the primary bathroom strategically positions a freestanding tub to maximize exterior views. The pool house offers a bolder color palette, deviating from the neutral tones of the main house with rich wine-colored lime plaster walls and limestone flagstone flooring from Eco-Outdoor, extending to the patio. Custom white oak cabinets and vaulted ceilings with reclaimed wood beams complete this space, which Sfadia considers his favorite part of the project due to its unique and expressive design. #LosAngelesHome #ItalianStyle #CaliforniaLiving #ModernRustic #TuscanVilla #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalDesign

This article explores the recently renovated San Diego home of interior designer Abbie Naber, highlighting her unique design philosophy that blends mid-century modern, global, and eclectic styles with a strong emphasis on pattern and indoor-outdoor living. Naber, who transitioned from fashion design to interiors, used her own home's renovation as a foundational project to showcase her vision, which she describes as a 'design mut' due to its diverse influences. The renovation of her four-bedroom, two-bath residence, which she shares with her husband and daughter, began on their wedding day with minimal structural changes initially. More recently, the couple expanded the home to include a larger indoor-outdoor dining space adjacent to the living room. Naber aimed to create a dining area that felt approachable and integrated, rather than formal. To achieve this seamless extension, they raised the roof and incorporated wood slats on the ceiling, visually connecting the new addition with the existing structure. The design incorporates woven textures, organic tones, and handmade-inspired details, such as an ombre blue wallpaper that evokes the ocean, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor theme and the home's connection to its California setting. Naber's aesthetic is heavily influenced by her travels and designers like Sarah Sherman Samuel and Leanne Ford, allowing her to create spaces where Scandinavian elements, mid-century pieces, and bohemian accents coexist. She frequently integrates vintage finds and items from flea markets or travels, avoiding a singular design style. Her background in textiles is evident in her use of patterns, not only in throw pillows and blankets available through her online shop, but also across various surfaces in her home, including bathroom floors and outdoor patios. A key aspect of her design approach involves starting with patterns, particularly tiles and wallpaper, rather than large furniture pieces. For instance, in the master bathroom, a graphic tile served as the starting point, leading to a pared-down palette and mid-century-inspired vanity with sleek vertical subway tiles. In her daughter's nursery, Naber opted for a contemporary, non-clichéd approach with a Scandinavian-style crib and moody metallic wallpaper, choosing a dark wall for a soothing aesthetic that she, as a parent, would also enjoy. The outdoor space further exemplifies the indoor-outdoor living concept. During the dining room expansion, a tiled outdoor patio and a fire pit zone were added. Inspired by Palm Springs, the yard features a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape primarily composed of succulents, cacti, and decomposed granite. This grass-free oasis reflects their commitment to sustainable choices suitable for the California climate. Naber concludes by emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's personal preferences amidst an overwhelming amount of visual information, often taking breaks from social media to reconnect with her own inspiration through travel and nature. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #PatternPlay #EclecticStyle #MidCenturyModern #SustainableLandscape #HomeRenovation #SanDiegoHome

The article showcases Abbie Naber’s San Diego home, which embodies a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience through thoughtful design choices and a unique blend of styles. Naber, an interior designer and textile enthusiast, transformed her four-bedroom, two-bath residence into a personal showcase of her design philosophy, which she describes as a "mut" of mid-century modern, global, and eclectic influences. Her approach emphasizes pattern, texture, and a curated collection of items, reflecting her extensive travels and a departure from singular aesthetic adherence. A significant aspect of the home's renovation involved expanding the dining room to create a larger indoor-outdoor space. To integrate this addition, Naber and her husband raised the roof and incorporated wood slats on the ceiling, creating visual continuity with the existing structure. The dining area features an ombre blue mural wallpaper from Anewall, chosen for its oceanic resemblance and its ability to define the indoor-outdoor theme. The space is further enhanced by woven textures, organic tones, and rattan chairs, contributing to a casual yet chic atmosphere that defies traditional formal dining space conventions. Naber's design sensibility extends throughout the home, with a strong affinity for tile and wallpaper as foundational elements for design. She explains that starting with a pattern allows her to build out the room's aesthetic more cohesively. For example, in the master bathroom, a graphic tile is balanced by a pared-down palette and mid-century inspired vanity, alongside sleek vertical subway tiles. Her daughter’s nursery reflects a contemporary vision, incorporating a Scandinavian-style crib and moody metallic wallpaper instead of conventional pink decor, aiming for a soothing environment for both child and parent. The exterior of the home also received a significant overhaul, with the addition of a tiled outdoor patio and a fire pit zone. Inspired by Palm Springs and the need for water-wise landscaping, Naber opted for a grass-free yard primarily composed of decomposed granite, succulents, and cacti. This drought-tolerant landscape is both stylish and low-maintenance, reflecting a practical yet aesthetic choice. The succulents, some of which were saved from her wedding, add a personal touch to the outdoor oasis. Naber's online shop, a.NABERDESIGN, further demonstrates her passion for textiles, offering one-of-a-kind throw pillows and blankets. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to her personal style amidst an overwhelming amount of visual stimulation, advocating for breaks from social media and engaging in activities like travel and hiking to maintain creative clarity. Her current inspirations include rustic-meets-minimalist spaces with a European influence, along with a color palette of terracotta, mustard, and rust, continuously evolving her diverse design vision. #SanDiegoHome #IndoorOutdoorLiving #AbbieNaberDesign #TextileDesign #PatternPerfect #MidCenturyModern #EclecticDecor #DroughtTolerantLandscape #WallpaperDesign

The article showcases a renovated coastal home in Marin County, California, emphasizing its elevated design that harmonizes with its oceanside setting. The interior designer, Elizabeth Cooper, based in New York and San Francisco, was tasked with creating a modern, serene, yet comfortable and inviting coastal home. The project benefited from Cooper's existing rapport with the homeowners, having collaborated on their previous properties, which streamlined the design process. The renovation focused on subtle coastal style decor that avoids clichés, instead offering a luxurious and laid-back aesthetic. The property boasts breathtaking ocean views from nearly every room, which significantly influenced the interior color palette and design choices. The kitchen's design was primarily driven by the homeowners' vision for a truly modern space. The wife specifically requested high-gloss kitchen cabinetry with plain fronts and no hardware, resulting in a sophisticated, pared-back look that effectively frames the stunning bay views. A blue-gray La Cornue range and hood introduce a subtle splash of color, maintaining consistency with the natural coastal color scheme. Unique elements such as custom-designed, oversized milk-glass pendants from Remains Lighting and Soane Britain counter stools are juxtaposed with the modern cabinetry, adding character and high-end detailing to the space. The eat-in kitchen, which flows seamlessly from the main kitchen, serves as a relaxed area for family meals. The designer opted for simple furnishings to complement the numerous windows and doors that open onto the terrace and pool, facilitating indoor-outdoor living. Notable pieces include crisp white Howe London chairs and a dining table with angled ends from RW Guild. An Apparatus light fixture was chosen for its open design, ensuring it does not obstruct the expansive views. The living room exemplifies modern coastal elegance, utilizing a serene color palette of whites, ivories, grays, and various shades of blue to echo the bay views. Cooper incorporated a mix of antique, mid-century, and contemporary furnishings, along with warm, light wood finishes and a unique plaster decorative wall finish that evokes the interior of a shell. Upholstered furniture was intentionally kept low to preserve the ocean vistas. A central plaster shell form light fitting by Stephen Antonson further enhances the artistic and coastal ambiance. The dining room, adjacent to the living room, continues the cohesive coastal aesthetic with a streamlined, elegant approach. The specialist plaster finish by Caroline Lizarraga extends from the living room, unifying the two areas. The design draws inspiration from London and Paris townhouses, featuring traditional exteriors with modern, light interiors, as well as New England coastal color palettes. The room includes a mid-century credenza, antique chairs, a Rose Uniacke Draper's Table, and a branching bubble light fixture by Lindsey Adelman. A striking painting by Jamie Nares from Kasmin Gallery adds a focal point. The home is also designed for practical family living, accommodating two young children and a dog. The family living room, open to both the kitchen and the outdoor living spaces, features durable fabrics and a comfortable Verellen sofa and ottoman. Bifold doors allow for expansive indoor-outdoor living. The entryway, while simple, is transformed into a distinctive space with a few carefully selected pieces, including a mid-century cocktail cabinet and soft gray Holland & Sherry wallpaper that extends to the second floor, drawing the eye towards the living room and bay views. The primary bedroom and bathroom maintain the home's serene atmosphere, with neutral furnishings and decor allowing the ocean views to dominate. The bedroom includes pieces from Mitchell Gold and Ralph Pucci, with artwork by Elliott Puckette and Kinuko Imai Hoffman. The bathroom, designed to evoke a spa-like feel, features fixtures from Waterworks and marble from Exquisite Surfaces, with sconces from Urban Electric, all contributing to a relaxing and visually harmonious environment. #CaliforniaBeachHouse #CoastalStyleDecor #InteriorDesign #ModernCoastal #HomeRenovation #LuxuryHomes #ElizabethCooperInteriors #MarinCounty #OpenPlanLiving