Zen Interior Design Infuses This California Home With Elegance and Serenity

This Nashville home, initially a speculative build by Build Nashville, transformed into a personalized "Zen Abode" for co-owner Jamie Duncan, drawing inspiration from her experiences in Costa Rica. During the frame stage, Duncan decided to purchase the house, collaborating with interior designer Elena DeSoto while adding her own custom touches. The design prioritizes a blend of modernity and softness, achieved through the careful selection of textures, greenery, and art. Duncan's personal customizations primarily focused on the backyard, where she integrated a sunken fire pit, an outdoor shower, mondo grass, and a cabana. Inside, she introduced beams in the living room and basket lights in both the dining room and stairwell. The overarching inspiration for these elements, and indeed much of the home's aesthetic, stemmed from her profound appreciation for Costa Rica, particularly a luxury resort experience. She sought to replicate the finishes and textures observed there, incorporating details like polycarbonate panels with bamboo reeds in the cabana's skylights and the outdoor shower's design, echoing the resort's architectural features. The home's design philosophy emphasizes a minimal color scheme, which is then enriched by diverse textures to create a welcoming and serene atmosphere. Duncan views texture as a key element, allowing for a modern house to feel soft and organic rather than harsh or cold. This is evident in the juxtaposition of materials such as concrete for showers and floors with solid wood beams in the living room, showcasing a thoughtful layering of different elements. Beyond its architectural and textural considerations, the residence functions as a personal art gallery. Duncan highlights the 27-foot wall in the dining room, specifically designed to showcase a custom piece by local Nashville artist Cory Basil. She maintains a commitment to featuring art exclusively from local Nashville artists or those with whom she has a personal connection, or pieces acquired during her travels. This curated collection further enhances the home's unique character and personal significance. Ultimately, the home serves as Build Nashville's model house, demonstrating to potential clients the possibilities for creating their ideal living spaces. It exemplifies how thoughtful design, personal inspiration, and a focus on texture and natural elements can converge to produce a breathtaking and inviting environment that feels both contemporary and deeply personal. #homeDesign #interiorDesign #nashvilleHomes #costaRicanInfluence #zenLiving #modernSoftness #architecturalDesign #localArt #textureInDesign

This article details the transformation of a newly built holiday home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, designed to offer a tranquil escape for a busy family. The property, acquired during the Covid period, replaced an old fibro shack with a modern structure by InForm and Pleysier Perkins, featuring interiors curated by Bree Banfield. While the exterior of the house incorporates Japanese design influences with moody, geometric black charred screens, the interior design prioritizes a lighthearted, low-key, and family-friendly atmosphere, emphasizing comfort and serenity. The homeowner was actively involved in the design process, providing a detailed vision, which was then refined and elevated by interior designer Bree Banfield. Banfield praised the client's thoroughness, using the moodboards as a foundation for sourcing artwork and soft furnishings, in addition to advising on finishes. A core element of the interior scheme was the color palette, which began with Dulux Earth Warming on the pantry joinery. This established a foundation of warm, clay-based tones with peach hues, deliberately avoiding a purely Scandinavian aesthetic. Soft oranges and tints of green were layered throughout to enhance a summery feel and contribute to the overall earthy ambience. Upon entering through a Zen courtyard, visitors are greeted by a double-height, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. This expansive space is made cozy in cooler months by a fireplace. Located behind the living room is the children's wing, which includes a secondary living room, the main bathroom, and three bedrooms, one of which has an ensuite. The design team focused on creating a comfortable and durable environment, selecting high-quality, hard-wearing pieces, including solid timber furniture, to withstand the rigors of family life without appearing overly precious or pristine. Imperfections are embraced through textured materials and the deliberate avoidance of stark white surfaces. An L-shaped outdoor area complements the home’s interior, featuring an entertaining deck that connects to a dedicated health studio. This studio is equipped with an infrared sauna, an ice bath, and a Pilates reformer bed, catering to the family’s commitment to health and wellness. The initial plan for a single-level home was revised due to the irregular plot shape, leading to the addition of an upper floor. This second level houses the main suite, a cinema room, and a parents' retreat, offering private spaces within the larger home. The owner highlights that despite the house's size, careful design has created cozy and inviting spaces, fostering a sense of being on holiday and promoting a slower pace of life, leading them to consider making it their permanent residence. Banfield's primary challenge was to soften the modern architectural lines, which she achieved through strategic material choices. She introduced textural elements like a Tigmi rug to contrast with the existing terrazzo and used sconces, shapely lamps, and a custom crochet pendant by Hamimi to add warmth and character, moving beyond standard ceiling lights. Pattern was integrated through an armchair in the lounge and khaki-print wallpaper in a guest room, while textile artworks by various artists further enrich the walls. The overall design successfully fosters a calming environment that encourages relaxation and quality family time, fulfilling the owners’ desire for a peaceful retreat away from city life. #HolidayHomeDesign #ZenInspiredInteriors #MorningtonPeninsula #WabiSabiStyle #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FamilyFriendlyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #OutdoorLiving

This article highlights a brand-new, two-story, six-bedroom, 7.5-bath property with 7,416 square feet of living space, designed by Emily White and Kristy Craig Anderson of Dwell Home Staging and Market. The home, built by Halo Homes, is a contemporary new build that served as an ideal canvas for a "livable luxe" design, characterized by a vast open floor plan, sleek iron and glass details, and custom wood cabinets and flooring. The primary goal of the interior design was to create a quiet, minimal, and luxurious feel, while also tempering the sleek architectural elements and high ceilings with soft textures and organic details to ground the space. The designers achieved a modern, organic vibe using a color palette of crisp whites, creamy taupes, and tans, accented with contrasting black and charcoal elements. A key design principle was to ensure that the furniture and decor played a supporting role, allowing the coveted Davis Islands waterfront view to remain the focal point of the property. The living room, for instance, features on-trend curved boucle accent chairs, which introduce a soft element that mirrors the curved lines of the arched doorways and dining room chairs. These dining chairs are also designed to swivel, offering optimal views for television watching. The living room's design is anchored by a down-filled sectional in a fresh off-white performance fabric from Dwell Home Market, chosen for its versatility in accommodating both upscale entertaining and family movie nights. The property's exterior amenities emphasize its prime waterfront location. It includes a designer saltwater pool, an outdoor kitchen, and a private dock, all strategically positioned to face the waterfront. The deep-water dockage is specifically highlighted as a desirable feature for yacht owners. The home is situated on one of Davis Islands' most sought-after streets, and its design maximizes the surrounding natural beauty. Sweeping bay views are visible from nearly every massive window throughout the residence, ensuring that the scenic environment is an integral part of the home's aesthetic.

This article explores a luxurious, all-white pool house in California, expertly designed by Kimberley Harrison Interiors, that serves as a serene backyard retreat for an active, empty-nester couple. The design emphasizes elegance, high-end aesthetics, and unwavering tranquility, achieved through a thoughtful combination of elements. The article highlights seven key design tips inspired by this space. First, the design extensively utilizes textural elements to add interest and depth to an otherwise minimalist aesthetic. Materials such as wood, rattan, and coco beads, sourced from the Philippine tropical islands, create an authentic coastal feel. This approach ensures that despite the predominantly white palette, the space remains dynamic and inviting, preventing it from appearing flat. Second, the pool house incorporates a dedicated space for mindfulness and quiet reflection. Kimberley Harrison emphasizes the importance of removing clutter to foster a sense of calm and serenity. This area, designed for yoga and meditation, features a harmonious mix of organic materials and subtle patterns, including custom-designed meditation pillows made from Uptown Toile fabric, a collaboration with Vervain and Sasha Bikoff. Third, open shelving is strategically used for the bar area, offering both practical storage and visual appeal. This design choice provides a statement feature while being more economical than fully enclosed units. The article suggests opting for chunky, robust shelves to create a strong, clean, and confident appearance. Fourth, built-in niches are integrated for streamlined storage, particularly in compact areas like bathrooms and en suites. Recessed shelving maximizes dead space, even if shallow, providing effective storage for items such as shampoo bottles without encroaching on the room's footprint. Fifth, quirky mirrors are incorporated to add visual interest and personality to bathrooms. The article notes the current trend of 'wiggly mirrors,' which function as both practical accessories and artistic pieces, blending seamlessly with both contemporary and traditional designs. Sixth, a well-planned entertainment area is essential for any pool house. The space is intelligently zoned, with one side dedicated to exercise and the other serving as an informal social hub for conversation and television viewing. This meticulous planning ensures the pool house caters to both adults and children, making it enjoyable at any time. Finally, the design embraces a sense of harmony by utilizing colors and materials found in nature. The pool area is designed to complement the surrounding rolling hills, with organic materials and natural hues creating a cohesive and tranquil scheme. Kimberley Harrison describes the pool house as a perfect blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics, designed for long-term enjoyment. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ZenRetreat #TexturalElements #MindfulnessSpace #OpenShelving #RecessedStorage #QuirkyMirrors #EntertainmentArea #NaturalColorPalette

Nestled in the bustling heart of Amsterdam, a 350-square-meter, three-bedroom semi-detached villa, originally constructed in 1899, offers a tranquil retreat for a young Australian family of four. Located conveniently near iconic institutions like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, as well as upscale shopping streets, the home also boasts a spacious rear garden and a roof terrace overlooking the renowned Vondelpark. The homeowners, global travelers, sought an interior design that blended timeless elegance with playful vibrancy, avoiding monotony while embracing splashes of color. Sally Knibbs, founder and director of Sally Caroline, was tasked with fulfilling this vision. Her design philosophy centered on creating spaces that were both 'timeless and joyful, playful but unpretentious.' A key element in achieving both a Zen ambiance and a lively character was the strategic use of a soft matte white for walls, ceilings, cornices, and various wooden decorative features, including window frames and shutters. This neutral backdrop is complemented by honey-toned lightwood parquet flooring. Deeper shades are introduced through a wooden handrail, subtly darker than the floor, and black metal accents in balustrades and a crittall-style partition, which add depth to the overall aesthetic. Knibbs's approach involved layering and experimenting with contrasting elements, some subtle and others bold. She curated a mix of vintage furniture and contemporary pieces sourced internationally from France, Italy, Portugal, the U.K., Denmark, and the U.S., alongside locally sourced items from Dutch artisans, galleries, and ceramicists. This careful selection reflects the clients' adventurous spirit and their appreciation for classic and collective design, while also honoring the restored original architecture of the villa. Distinct moods were cultivated for different areas of the home. The entrance hall features a console by French designer Jean-Baptiste Fastrez and the Secret Mirror from Swedish design studio Front. The lower levels, intended for family activities like board games and movie nights, are infused with upbeat colors, exemplified by a blush velvet Nebula Nine sofa from Diesel with Moroso set on a bold SC Collection rug. The music room is designed as a serene space for relaxation and listening. It houses a record collection within vintage Vittorio Introini bookcases, a handcrafted leather dresser, a vintage Camaleonda sofa re-upholstered in Dedar fabric, and a travertine coffee table resting on a botanical silk rug. This layering of elements creates a calm yet sophisticated environment. The main bedroom, located upstairs, serves as an ode to relaxation with a Cloud chandelier by Apparatus Studio and a commissioned artwork by Steven John Clark. Green accents in the décor establish a connection with the visible Vondelpark. The top floor is dedicated to the twins, with each room reflecting their individual interests: one adorned with animal themes and the other with travel motifs. The homeowners expressed immense satisfaction with the design, stating that the home feels 'calm but colourful' and strikes a balance between the luxury of a hotel and the comfort of a personal residence. This project successfully merges modern design with traditional elements, creating a unique and comfortable living space in a prime urban location. #ZenHome #Amsterdam #InteriorDesign #ColourfulInteriors #TraditionalModernBlend #VintageFurniture #LuxuryLiving #DutchArtisans #FamilyHome

This article explores a collection of 26 residential projects designed to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, drawing inspiration from Zen principles. These homes emphasize natural light, open floor plans, serene color palettes, and a strong connection to the outdoors, creating environments that serve as peaceful retreats from modern life. Each featured home showcases distinct architectural and design approaches while maintaining a unifying theme of calmness and integration with nature. The featured designs include a beach house with a dark exterior that contrasts with its bright, airy interior, demonstrating how external appearances can belie an internal sanctuary. Another project highlights a pool house in Texas that encourages an outdoor lifestyle, with most living spaces situated outside and adaptable elements like sliding timber barn doors. An updated Eichler home in Silicon Valley is showcased for its picturesque atrium, designed as a full garden at the heart of the house, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Further examples include a Swedish cabin featuring a rooftop meditation sanctum, offering panoramic views of its natural surroundings, and a leafy enclave that prioritizes garden-centric living, with interiors designed to constantly provide views of the outdoors while maintaining privacy. A creative temple nestled in the California Redwoods emphasizes bringing the outdoors in through the extensive use of wood and reclaimed materials. An Osaka tiny house utilizes poetic arches and lush courtyards to create a sense of progression and warmth within its compact footprint. The collection also presents a Texan shelter, the Elsewhere Cabin, thoughtfully integrated into a quiet vineyard, and a serene garden oasis in São Paulo, which was transformed from a cramped apartment into a mid-city refuge with plants, vines, and pergolas forming a natural barrier against urban elements. A backyard enclave provides a peaceful haven for book lovers with its graceful ovoid design and glowing anchor point shed. A minimal seaside getaway in Japan is highlighted for its focus on serenity and surfing, designed with few distractions to maximize appreciation for the sea and nature. Additional projects include a sleek California home that eschews clutter to highlight its views, a Bauhaus-inspired Chilean “Quincho” designed for relaxation and meditation, and a minimalist Texan home where giant oak trees dominate the courtyard, providing essential shade. A sun-drenched dwelling uniquely situated in the middle of a pond, elevated on stilts, allows for swimming underneath. A chic Mexican oasis uses muted tones for meditative results, with sliding glass doors creating seamless indoor-outdoor connections. A Brazilian home, inspired by Japanese Zen gardens, features timber beams that frame tranquil views of interior courtyards. A Stinson Beach home utilizes massive, movable glass walls to invite the outdoors in, creating a fluid transition between interior and exterior spaces. A lakefront home merges prefab design with concrete slabs and an open floor plan, its industrial feel softened by oak cabinetry. A Melbourne home embodies garden-centric living, integrating a vintage dining set with a painted brick wall. A rustic space perfectly illustrates Wabi-Sabi design, including a "watshitsu" room for meditation and tea drinking with a fully glazed wall. A strikingly sustainable Connecticut house wraps around a serene pond, designed to overlook water views, and a quiet Swiss chalet draws inspiration from the surrounding Les Jeurs Mountains. Finally, a Japanese architect's live/work space is inspired by a single tree, featuring high ceilings and walls that open to the outside, and a peaceful retirement bungalow sits beside a bubbling brook and rolling hills, characterized by a wide roof overhang and a private guest bedroom. #ZenDesign #PeacefulHomes #IndoorOutdoorLiving #NaturalDaylight #SereneColors #BiophilicDesign #ArchitecturalOasis #TranquilSpaces #SustainableDesign

The Zen House, designed by Minarc and located in Manhattan Beach, California, integrates modern design with a natural, tranquil atmosphere. This residence was specifically created for software developers and their family, accommodating both their daily needs and the frequent visits from relatives, while also promoting an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. The property encompasses a sleek two-story main house and an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) guest suite, ensuring ample space and privacy for all occupants. The design draws inspiration from the family's international travels, particularly their experiences in Bali, Indonesia. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by an outdoor courtyard featuring a koi fish pond and a soothing water feature. This element not only adds aesthetic value but also functions as an acoustic buffer, reducing street noise and contributing to a peaceful environment. The courtyard's calming sounds and visual serenity create a meditative entrance to the home. Complementing this serene setting, olive trees were incorporated into the landscaping, evoking memories of family vacations in Greece and Italy, thereby strengthening the home's connection to nature and personal history. A central design principle of the Zen House is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces. Large sliding doors and expansive windows are strategically placed to maximize the influx of natural light and facilitate cross-ventilation, ensuring that the interiors remain bright and airy throughout the day. An open roof deck, situated above a portion of the first floor, offers a versatile outdoor area with extensive views of the swimming pool and the surrounding landscape. Adjacent to the pool, a basketball court links the ADU to the main residence, providing a dynamic recreational zone for both the family and their visitors. The interior design of the Zen House is characterized by a deliberate selection of natural materials and a subdued color palette. Wood, concrete, and elements of fire combine to create a warm and peaceful ambiance, fostering relaxation. The minimalist color scheme allows the inherent beauty of these raw materials to be the focal point. The homeowners were actively involved in the design process; notably, the husband personally crafted all the cabinetry throughout the home. These custom cabinets, made from sustainable Valchromat MDF and finished with natural wood veneers or high-pressure laminates, infuse the living spaces with a personal and eco-conscious touch. The residence achieves a balance between open communal areas and private spaces through thoughtfully designed bedrooms and five accompanying bathrooms. These private areas offer comfort and functionality for both family members and guests, all while adhering to the home’s overarching minimalist aesthetic. Efficient space planning ensures smooth transitions between communal and private zones, enhancing the overall functionality and liveability of the home. Minarc’s commitment to sustainability is evident in various aspects of the project. Kebony modified lumber, chosen for its durability and minimal environmental impact, was used for cladding, decking, and fencing. The construction process utilized prefabricated mnmMOD panels, which contribute to superior insulation and minimize waste due to their precise assembly. This construction method not only boosts energy efficiency but also helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on conventional heating and cooling systems. Further enhancing the home’s sustainable profile are radiant floor heating powered by heat pumps and high-efficiency appliances, which collectively reduce the carbon footprint and contribute to a comfortable living environment. #ModernArchitecture #ZenDesign #SustainableLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ManhattanBeach #MinarcDesigns #MinimalistHome #NatureInspiredDesign #CustomCabinetry

This article details the restoration and renovation of a historic Spanish Revival home in Montecito, CA, originally designed by renowned architect Wallace Neff in 1922. The recent renovation, led by interior designer Bridgid Williams, focused on peeling back previous unsympathetic changes to highlight the home's period details and original character. The redesign emphasizes a transitional scheme rich in warmth and character, achieved through a blend of beautifully crafted new and old furniture, exquisite details, and specific finishes. Key elements of the restoration include preserving unique and handcrafted decorative details. The entryway, for instance, features original handmade terracotta tiles, which informed the home's overall color palette. The decision to reinstate soft white plaster walls, characteristic of Spanish colonial revival architecture, helps accentuate the decorative tile details on the stair risers and ironwork. The renovation also saw the reintroduction of bullnose corners and the elimination of baseboards, allowing plaster walls to meet the flooring directly. A notable detail in the terracotta floors is a century-old dog paw print, which was intentionally preserved, symbolizing an appreciation for imperfection and adding a unique narrative to the home. The kitchen and dining areas showcase a thoughtful combination of heirloom pieces and well-crafted new furniture. In the kitchen, a vintage Welsh potboard is paired with a custom-built island designed to resemble a furniture piece, serving as a focal point for displaying the homeowner's collected treasures. Classic details were reinstated, such as replacing a stainless steel extractor hood with a traditional-style white plaster one and incorporating a warm Tadelakt plaster backsplash. The original terracotta floors dictated the design, with sophisticated navy cabinetry (Farrow & Ball’s Black Blue) chosen to complement their rich rust color, benefiting from ample natural light. The dining room, merged with the kitchen, features vintage pieces like visually lighter wicker dining chairs to prevent overwhelming the space. An architectural intervention involved creating a thick three-centered arch between the kitchen and dining room, opening the space for entertaining while reintroducing a softness lost in previous remodels. This arch now acts as a central axis for the rear of the house. Custom furniture, such as a white oak racetrack dining table by Petersen Antiques and a Linear chandelier from Currey & Co, complete the setting. The living room retains unique original details, including an orchestra balcony that once hosted performers, adding an unexpected layer of interest. The original fireplace, iron railings, and stairs leading to the balcony remain intact, contributing to the home's charm. The restoration emphasized highlighting vaulted ceilings and arched openings, though the goal was not to create a museum-like environment. Instead, the focus was on incorporating living finishes and materials that would age and patina over time. The long living space was divided into two sitting areas, unified by identical jute rugs and infused with pops of green through various decorative elements. Bedrooms feature earthy tones that reflect Mediterranean hues, aligning with the relaxed California style and traditional Spanish aesthetics. An original corner bedroom fireplace, with its rounded profile and stucco chimney breast, serves as a charming focal point in the guest suite. In the primary bathroom, waterproof plaster walls create a spa-like, calming retreat, allowing elements like a chandelier and custom reeded cabinetry to stand out without competition. Texture is used to add depth, as seen in the custom double vanity with its reeded detailing. For the grandkids' room, bobbin beds, refinished in Benjamin Moore Galapagos Green, provide a contemporary yet traditional touch. Custom pieces were commissioned when vintage options were unavailable, such as a barley twist leg vanity in the grandchildren's en suite from Paul Smith Studios, which maximizes space and adds nostalgic character. The exterior landscaping, designed by Alexander Champagne Landscape Design, integrates seamlessly with the architecture, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience and providing a perfect finishing touch to the meticulously restored home. #HistoricHomeRenovation #SpanishRevivalArchitecture #InteriorDesign #BridgidWilliams #MontecitoCalifornia #TerracottaTiles #VintageFurniture #CustomCabinetry #PlasterWalls

Interior designer Rachel Hills, founder and creative director of Rachel Hills Design Co., and her architect husband, Paul, principal of the Hills Group, have collaborated to create their modern California home. Completed in 2024, this new-build residence, located on a street named Tesoro, meaning “treasure” in Spanish, reflects the couple’s three decades of design experience. The project was conceived with a clear objective: to downsize thoughtfully and design a space that is both intuitive and refined, balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal. Every element in the house serves a purpose and contributes to its overall feeling. The home’s architecture and interior design were meticulously handled in-house, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious flow. The exterior features clean lines and a contemporary aesthetic, softened by organic materials and a natural color palette that seamlessly transitions to the interior. A key design element throughout the house is the thoughtful integration of accent walls. These walls, rather than being overtly dramatic, are subtly impactful, contributing to the home's nuanced texture and visual interest. For instance, the kitchen showcases richly patterned marble paired with two-tone cabinetry in spruce green and light oak. Honed black soapstone countertops, with their delicate green veining, subtly echo the cabinetry, while a gold metallic backsplash from Artistic Tile adds a touch of glamour. Hills emphasized the importance of tactile quality, ensuring surfaces were interesting without overwhelming the space. This emphasis on tactile richness extends to other areas of the home. In the living room, a linear fireplace from EcoSmart is integrated into a concrete tile wall, creating a sculptural contrast to the smooth wooden floors. Curved ceilings, ranging from 14 to 17 feet, are highlighted by custom steel I-beams that align with the architectural design. The ground floor features an open layout that offers views of an internal courtyard, a central element of the home. This courtyard, designed around a century-old olive tree and framed by glass walls, serves as a serene focal point, bringing natural light and a sense of calm into multiple rooms, providing a rhythmic and contemplative space. Art and personal history are woven into the interiors. A large painting of an Egyptian queen, salvaged and painted on tile, is a dramatic feature in the living room. Rachel Hills’s own artwork is also displayed, including an ocean-inspired canvas in the hallway and a floral painting in the guest bedroom, which introduces a softer, more traditional accent wall concept. The bathrooms also feature distinct surfaces; the primary suite includes softly textured wallpaper and an en-suite with metallic Italian stone-look flooring and charcoal tiles from WOW Design. The guest bath combines white marble with deep charcoal accents from Ann Sacks, demonstrating careful composition and visual variety while maintaining overall design consistency. Practicality was a significant consideration in the design. The home includes two separate kitchens: one for entertaining and another specifically tailored for the husband's weekly cooking routine. Hills underscores that functionality does not necessitate compromise but rather encourages intelligent design. The home, therefore, is not primarily intended to impress but to genuinely reflect the couple's current lifestyle, focusing on efficiency, clarity, and thoughtful living with fewer but more intentional possessions. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AccentWalls #ModernHome #CaliforniaLiving #Texture #NaturalPalette #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHomes

This article details the design and construction of Local House, a new home in Eaglemont, Melbourne, created by Zen Architects for homeowners Eleneth and Peter. The project aimed to accommodate the couple as they age, allowing them to remain in their community while sensitively responding to the historically significant Mount Eagle Estate, designed by Walter Burley and Marion Mahony Griffin in 1914. The estate's original garden suburb ideology, characterized by curving streets and shared garden access, heavily influenced the new home's design. The clients, having lived on their block for 32 years, sought a home that would be suitable for their next stage of life after their children had moved out. The brief emphasized a house similar in accommodation and size to others in the area, yet flexible enough to meet changing needs, particularly mobility concerns for aging in place. Zen Architects responded by retaining the entire front garden and positioning the house further back on the site to enhance street appeal and create more "breathing room." The strategic placement of the home on the flattest part of the site minimized excavation, facilitating single-level living. The resulting residence is smaller than its predecessor, returning nearly 100 square meters to the garden, and efficiently planned for two people, with a dedicated wing for visiting family. A central aspect of Local House is its deep connection to the landscape. The design incorporates windows of varying sizes and scales throughout the home, offering diverse views of the surrounding gardens. Some windows are tall and narrow, framing intimate garden scenes, while others are positioned higher to capture expansive views of the sky and mature trees. This deliberate approach creates an immersive experience, allowing occupants to feel deeply connected to the natural environment. The careful siting also achieved a balance between privacy and expansive outlooks, with the house positioned on a gentle slope to ensure privacy from the street while maximizing scenic vistas. The material palette of Local House draws inspiration from the local Art Deco architecture. Slate stone flooring extends from the courtyard into the living spaces, providing a tactile connection to the outdoors and incorporating in-floor heating for modern comfort. The exterior and some internal walls feature a rough, hand-thrown troweled render, a distinctive finish that required precise application by a single artisan to ensure consistency. This render, combined with recycled brick and timber, aligns with the material character of neighboring homes. The landscape design, initially developed by Jo Russell-Clarke and Vivid Landscapes, was ultimately cultivated by Eleneth and Cath and Ross Bennie from Green Schemes. This collaborative effort resulted in an evolving garden that embraces various microclimates, moving away from traditional rigid designs towards a dynamic and diverse landscape. The project successfully navigates site constraints, including significant vegetation and heritage overlays, to create a home that is not only respectful of the Griffin masterplan but also profoundly celebrates its natural setting. #ResidentialArchitecture #AgingInPlace #GardenSuburbDesign #LandscapeIntegration #SustainableDesign #Eaglemont #ZenArchitects #MelbourneHomes #Materiality

This article highlights the comprehensive renovation of a contemporary Bay Area home, transformed by interior designer Noz Nozawa of Noz Design into a Japanese-inspired sanctuary. The project, initially a cosmetic update of the kitchen and bathrooms, escalated into a full gut renovation of the 4,000-square-foot residence. The homeowners, a young family, sought a visually tranquil, modern, and functional living space, drawing inspiration from the wife's Japanese upbringing. While significant structural changes were minimal, such as the addition of a Jack and Jill bathroom, nearly every aspect of the house was updated, including a new roof, exterior roller shades, and skylights. Nozawa adopted a restrained, material-focused palette to achieve an atmosphere of calm. She collaborated with Brimer Workshops to custom-design cabinetry and built-ins throughout the home. These pieces primarily utilized local, sustainably sourced wood varieties like silvered oak, gray elm, and red elm, ingeniously concealing clutter behind rich wooden surfaces. For artistic accents, Caroline Lizarraga Decorative Painting contributed a moody mural for the powder room, evoking San Francisco's city lights at night. The design incorporated features to support the family's entertaining needs. The living area was conceptualized with flexible seating arrangements, including a Flexform sectional, a daybed, and Ligne Roset swivel chairs. This setup allows guests to engage with hosts in the open kitchen or enjoy the panoramic city views. A transparent Da Vinci fireplace was chosen specifically to maintain unobstructed vistas. A unique request involved accommodating a collection of approximately 300 wine glasses for entertaining. Nozawa ingeniously integrated storage for about 150 glasses within kitchen drawers and dining area cabinetry, exemplifying the design's commitment to minimizing visual clutter. Further efforts to reduce clutter included wall-height cabinets crafted from salvaged red elm to house the family's guitar collection. To avoid traditional curtains in the window-heavy interior, a motorized exterior shade system from Lutron, controllable via smartphones, was installed for privacy and sun protection. Japanese cultural influences are subtly woven throughout the home, extending beyond the minimalist aesthetic. A 300-year-old Hinoki cypress slab, imported from Japan, serves as the dining table. A hidden broom closet door features a subtle reference to the Japanese mending technique of kintsugi. The home integrates heirloom pieces, such as Japanese Tansu chests and a dragon image symbolizing prosperity, alongside contemporary furniture from brands like B&B Italia and Cassina. The primary bathroom includes a Hinoki plunge tub, maintained at a constant 36 degrees Fahrenheit, with an external refrigeration unit to regulate its temperature. Nozawa, who is half-Japanese, consciously balanced a commitment to Japanese modern aesthetics with the home's inherently Western architecture. The entryway embodies the project's essence, combining contemporary and traditional elements. A supermodern, site-specific glass lighting installation by Jeff Zimmerman, resembling giant milk drips, provides a striking contrast to antique Japanese wall panels from the clients' collection. This blend of old and new, East and West, reflects the clients' current identity and heritage, creating a unique and harmonious living environment. #JapaneseInspired #CaliforniaHome #InteriorDesign #MinimalistAesthetic #CustomCabinetry #NaturalMaterials #FlexibleSeating #SmartHomeTechnology #CulturalIntegration

This article details the transformation of a 1922 midcentury hillside home in Los Angeles, masterminded by designer Shanty Wijaya of Allprace Properties. The renovation successfully integrated Japanese and Scandinavian design aesthetics, a fusion known as Japandi, across the entire three-bedroom property. The core philosophy guiding the design was to foster a healthy, meaningful lifestyle and a strong connection to nature, blending the tranquil principles of Japanese wabi-sabi with the minimalist, warm, and neutral elements of Scandinavian hygge. Upon entering the home, visitors are greeted by a natural, muted, and earthy color palette. The space is intentionally minimalistic and filled with natural light. Despite the subdued color scheme, a variety of textures and materials, such as plaster in the kitchen, concrete, limestone, and reclaimed wood throughout, introduce complexity and visual interest. A crucial aspect of the redesign involved incorporating large windows and sliding doors to emphasize the surrounding views and landscaping, effectively bringing the outdoors in. This was further enhanced by integrating potted hanging plants and greenery within the interior. The exterior and landscaping also received significant attention, with Japanese garden plants, rocks, various types of bamboo, Japanese maples, bonsai, and pine trees strategically placed alongside specially sourced rocks resembling mountain formations. The home purposefully features unique and one-of-a-kind details, opting for vintage, reclaimed, and handmade pieces over mass-produced furnishings. Examples include a wooden chair in the living room, a raw wooden dining table, and a rough-hewn reclaimed French oak kitchen countertop refinished with a dark stain. The selection of materials was also deliberate, chosen for their ability to naturally patina over time. Sustainability played a key role, drawing from the Scandinavian influence. High-performing, sustainably sourced Accoya wood was used for the home's exterior, and a custom-built bioethanol concrete fireplace provides an eco-friendly heating solution. The outdoor space, initially a downward-sloping backyard, was completely re-envisioned into a terraced garden with multiple functional levels. These levels now host a koi pond, a chicken coop, a Japanese rock garden, a plunge pool, a veggie garden, an alfresco dining area, and a meditating space. One of the most challenging aspects of the renovation was applying the Japandi style to the exterior, including custom millwork on the façade, and meticulously planning the landscape design to ensure seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. A notable addition was a 'she-shed,' conceived during the COVID-19 lockdown, designed as a private retreat that can serve as an office, yoga studio, or a space for relaxation. Its architectural elements, including Accoya wood millwork, were kept consistent with the main house's design. Inside, custom-designed features like the primary suite’s headboard, inspired by the setting sun, and the bathroom's large windows, further emphasize the home's beautiful views and natural aesthetic. #JapandiStyle #HomeRenovation #ZenDesign #InteriorDesign #SustainableLiving #OutdoorLiving #LosAngelesHomes #MidcenturyModern #TerracedGarden

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 explores the tranquil and thoughtfully designed home of Dave Wheaton and Melodee Meyer, founders of Martial Arts Family Fitness in Santa Barbara. The property, located at 1825 Stanwood Drive, is characterized by its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting a 'zen sanctuary' aesthetic that is both contemporary and influenced by Eastern designs. The house sits on an acre of land, featuring two distinct entrances. One entrance off Stanwood Drive includes a bridge over a stream leading to the front door, while another off Conejo Road features a wooden gate, bamboo fence, and Chinese dragon statues, opening into a lush courtyard with a bubbling stone fountain. This courtyard, with its fern-filled landscape, serves as Melodee's personal tropical retreat, inspired by her and Dave's time in Hawai‘i. Throughout the grounds, stone statues, many sourced from Bali, are strategically placed, enhancing the unique and serene outdoor environment. Inside, the home opens with a double-high glass front door, complemented by an original light fixture from The Biltmore hotel, leading into a red-walled foyer. Three steps descend into a spacious yet cozy living room, distinguished by vaulted ceilings, skylights, an elegant gray fireplace, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Hidden features, such as a painting that slides away to reveal a television screen and a climate-controlled wine cellar concealed behind a closet door, demonstrate a blend of artistic design and practical functionality. The kitchen and its adjacent dining area are designed for entertaining, featuring bamboo floors that extend from the living room. The kitchen is equipped with stainless-steel appliances, soapstone countertops, a long breakfast bar, and a large island, all accented by a subway-tiled backsplash, dramatic lighting, and a red accent wall that ties into the entryway's color scheme. The master bedroom suite, located in a separate wing on the first floor, offers luxurious amenities, including 'his and hers' closets, a bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, a cozy window seat, and a redwood sauna. A private deck accessible from the master suite features a hot tub, ideal for stargazing. The upper level provides additional family space or office options with two more bedrooms and bathrooms. The home encompasses a total of three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, incorporating modern upgrades like solar power and radiant floor heating, alongside practical elements such as a conveniently located laundry room near the master suite, all contributing to an effortlessly enjoyable living experience. The outdoor spaces are a significant highlight, featuring winding paths through succulent gardens, past boulders, and various fruit trees, including persimmon, pomegranate, and avocado. The multi-level grounds are meticulously landscaped with walls and pathways, creating secluded nooks and hideaways perfect for relaxation. Several gazebos and a pergola offer additional shaded areas, while a stairway leads to a private spot by the creek. A large, terraced outdoor dining area, conveniently situated near the kitchen, is designed for extended use throughout the year. A walled alcove with seating around a gas fire pit provides an intimate setting for social gatherings. The property at 1825 Stanwood Drive is presented as a distinctive sanctuary, currently available for sale through Bartron Real Estate Group of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. #HomeDesign #ZenSanctuary #SantaBarbaraRealEstate #MartialArtsFamilyFitness #OutdoorLiving #ContemporaryDesign #AsianInfluences #LuxuryHome

Designer Kari Arendsen, principal at Intimate Living Interiors, embarked on a significant renovation of Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Chase Daniel and his wife Hillary's 12,000-square-foot Tuscan-style residence in Rancho Santa Fe, California. The initial challenge involved removing heavy, dated Tuscan-inspired millwork that dominated the home. Despite initial apprehension from the Daniels about stripping away existing elements, Arendsen, along with her business partner Tory Peterson and architect Mark Radford, aimed to create interiors that felt "fresh and alive" and enhanced the overall design. The renovation focused on transforming the five-bedroom, six-bathroom, and two half-bath property into a peaceful and functional family home. A key aspect of the redesign was strategic lighting, incorporating sconces, overhead fixtures, and LEDs to establish different moods in each room. Spatial reconfigurations were also central to the project, adapting the existing layout to better suit the family's needs. For instance, an existing bar was converted into a cozy nook for reading and meditation, reflecting the designer's goal to infuse a sense of stillness and create spaces for quiet gathering. The Daniels sought a calming environment, and Arendsen delivered by focusing on intentional design choices that promoted comfort and tranquility. In the kitchen, no detail was overlooked. It features a custom Lacanche range, backlit steel cabinets, and a hidden coffee bar with its own faucet. Practical elements for the family with young children include refrigerator drawers placed within reach for easy snack access. The 900-square-foot kitchen area, which encompasses a butler’s kitchenette, a breakfast nook, and a walk-in pantry, also saw a revised layout, including a pass-through connecting the indoor space to an outdoor barbecue station. The island was designed with extra-durable quartzite to withstand daily use and messes, ensuring longevity. A quiet color palette defines the home's aesthetic, with soft green accents strategically introduced to connect with nature. This choice was important to the clients, as seen in the viridescent pendant lights above the kitchen island, which were hand-painted in a custom color, and the dramatic forest-green walls in Chase Daniel's home office. Hillary Daniel noted that while blue is often associated with calm, the use of green achieves a similar calming effect while offering more visual interest. Specific design details are highlighted throughout the home. In the dining room, symmetry and alignment were carefully considered, featuring a Palecek chandelier, Sherwin-Williams 'Futon' paint, and furniture from ILI Be Home. Chase Daniel's study was designed to be both masculine and moody, utilizing Sherwin-Williams 'Rookwood Dark Green' paint, Zak+Fox curtains, and a custom desk by ILI Be Home. The primary bedroom serves as a peaceful retreat, incorporating rich, plush textures, and a soft palette with Sherwin-Williams 'Futon' paint, Zak+Fox wallpaper, and an Oly Studio bed frame. A sweet nook with a banquette and storage, complete with Georges lighting and Christopher Farr wallpaper, was created for the Daniels' young daughter. The primary bathroom features a standalone bathtub from European Kitchen & Bath and flooring by KC Design Stone & Tile. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #CaliforniaLiving #FamilyHome #KariArendsen #QuietLuxury #CustomDesign