A Delicate Renovation Revives a ’70s Beach House in Northern California

This blog post details the restoration of a 684-square-foot midcentury cabin located within the renowned Sea Ranch community in Sonoma, California. Originally constructed in 1968 by architect Joseph Esherick, the cabin, known as the "MiniMod," was designed to embody Sea Ranch's principles of harmonious integration with nature and affordable living. Over time, the cabin fell into disrepair, prompting new owners, including the creative director of Framestudio, to undertake a renovation in 2017. Their objective was to preserve the dwelling's historical significance while incorporating modern amenities and functionalities. The renovation focused on honoring Esherick's original architectural vision, particularly the open-plan concept across its three levels. The 20-foot by 20-foot cabin maintains an interconnected feel, with a key addition being a full-height partition. This partition allows for the privacy of two bedrooms when needed, yet can discreetly retract into Douglas Fir paneling, thereby upholding the open aesthetic. The project involved a thoughtful approach to materials, reusing original wood and introducing new components from similar materials, designed to contrast subtly with the existing structure. A significant aspect of the modernization was the kitchen. While original upper cabinets were meticulously restored, the lower cabinetry was replaced with Baltic Birch plywood clad in matte black laminate, accommodating new appliances, storage drawers, and toe kicks. The exhaust system was meticulously reconstructed to its original 1960s standards, using an authentic exhaust fan. This blend of preservation and contemporary functionality ensured the kitchen met modern living standards while respecting the cabin's heritage. The upper-level bedrooms were intentionally kept minimally designed. To optimize storage in the compact space, custom blue laminate cupboards were installed within the existing closet alcoves. The second bedroom features playful built-in bunk beds, while the main level's sleeping capacity was enhanced with a built-in sofa that includes integrated storage and a pullout bed. These thoughtful design choices maximize utility and comfort within the cabin's limited footprint. The exterior, crafted from wood, was designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding timber landscape, reinforcing the Sea Ranch philosophy of living lightly on the land. Large windows and sliding glass doors further connect the interior with the natural outdoor environment, creating an office space overlooking the redwoods. The renovation successfully transformed the MiniMod into a comfortable and functional rental property, ready for guests. #MidcenturyModern #CabinRenovation #SeaRanch #JosephEsherick #Framestudio #TinyHomes #CaliforniaHomes #ArchitecturalPreservation #SustainableDesign

Charlotte-based designer Lisa Sherry undertook a renovation project for a dated 1970s beach house on Bald Head Island. The homeowners, familiar with Sherry's work and her nearly two decades of experience with properties on the island, sought to transform their primary bedroom into a light, airy, and modern spa-like retreat. Sherry described the original primary bedroom as "dark and dingy with old carpet and no soul," despite offering outstanding views of the marsh. The renovation focused on maximizing natural light and integrating the outdoor scenery. Sherry replaced the existing carpet with hardwood floors and installed floor-to-ceiling windows to enhance the marsh views. The bathroom underwent a significant upgrade, featuring a new soaking tub, a walk-in shower, and a custom vanity crafted by a local cabinetmaker. To maintain a cohesive and comfortable aesthetic throughout the suite, Sherry selected linen drapes for the windows and applied Benjamin Moore’s China White paint to the walls. The design extended to furnishing the primary bedroom entirely with new pieces. Sherry sourced an upholstered bed from Verellen, a High Point-based furniture maker, noting her appreciation for its tall headboard and pleating details, which complemented upholstered chairs in the room. Nightstands from Made Goods were paired with smoked-glass lamps, and a metal bench from Oly Studio was placed at the foot of the bed. A distinctive bubble chandelier, with thick resin bulbs resembling clouds, was installed on the vaulted ceiling, adding a unique focal point. Attention to detail was crucial in the final design. Sherry incorporated custom pillows and a wool throw on the bed, along with a wood ladder used to display the homeowner’s vintage beads. This element was chosen to provide a tailored yet unfussy look, aligning with the homeowner's appreciation for the interplay between fashion and interiors. In the bathroom, nickel hardware and glass bulbs were selected for the fixtures to ensure consistency with the home's overall design. Sherry emphasized that the design’s success stemmed from layering various elements—such as throws, the ladder, the metal bench, and the intricate tiles surrounding the tub—to create an atmosphere that felt both casual and sophisticated. #BeachHouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #LisaSherry #BaldHeadIsland #HomeRenovation #ModernDesign #SpaLikeBathroom #CustomInteriors #DesignDetails

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

This article details the transformation of a small beach bungalow in Santa Monica into a modern family home, spearheaded by interior designer Natalie Myers. The project began in August 2017 when a newlywed couple, inspired by Myers's designs on Pinterest, enlisted her help. The husband's architect brother handled the exterior updates and expansions to the primary suite and kitchen, while Myers focused on interior finishes, fixtures, cabinetry, and furnishings. The renovation process, initially expected to take six months, extended to nearly three years due to permit approvals, construction, and inspections. During this time, the couple welcomed a child, highlighting their patience and adaptability while living in a studio apartment. Myers emphasized the importance of timeless modern design for this project, aiming for a look that would remain fresh and relevant for decades. She maintained her initial design choices throughout the extended timeline, asserting their enduring appeal. The bungalow's layout presented a challenge with two small living rooms flanking the front door. Myers designed them to share a cohesive style while serving distinct functions: one as a formal guest area and the other as a casual lounging space with a TV. She achieved this connection by using Moroccan rugs with the same pattern in both flatweave and shaggy styles. The kitchen is a highlight, described as a "galley kitchen of galley kitchens," featuring two long lines of custom cabinetry. Despite its compact size, the design creates a luxurious and functional space. To optimize storage in the small kitchen, Myers integrated both upper cabinets for discreet storage and open shelving, which she particularly favors for its aesthetic. The material palette was deliberately limited but incorporated varied textures and colors to create a dynamic feel. Caesarstone was used for counters and a 20-inch backsplash, chosen for its durability and clean appearance. A particularly beloved feature is the tucked-away banquette seating at the end of the galley kitchen, designed as a private yet central spot for working or relaxing, benefiting from ample natural light. The primary suite, a significant addition, demonstrates how vaulted ceilings can enhance the sense of space in a smaller footprint. A sliding barn door connects the bathroom to the sleeping area, optimizing flow and privacy. The primary bedroom features a four-poster bed and eye-catching sconces, drawing the eye upwards and contributing to the room's grandeur. The use of various textiles for bedding and wall hangings adds comfort and warmth. The primary bathroom combines classical elements with modern touches, utilizing beige glazed field tile and Calacatta marble hex flooring extending into the shower. A standout design feature in the bathroom is the accent wall in the shower, crafted from cement wall tile, which introduces a playful element to the space. The renovation showcases clever solutions for maximizing space and maintaining a sophisticated, timeless aesthetic in a small beach bungalow. #BeachBungalow #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceSolutions #HomeRenovation #SantaMonica #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

Hailey and Ryan Weller, partners at Concrete Collaborative, undertook a renovation of their 20-year-old home in San Clemente, California, with the goal of creating bright, relaxed spaces for their family and pets. Their primary objective was to lighten the existing dark and dated finishes, infusing a coastal aesthetic inspired by the nearby beach environment. Given their professional background, concrete and terrazzo architectural finishes played a central role in the home's redesign, featuring natural materials reminiscent of sand and rock, abstract patterns suggesting surf culture, and playful color accents. The open-plan ground floor was designed with a neutral palette of whites, creams, and warm grays, serving as a sophisticated foundation for more vibrant elements. Geometric patterned tiles from Concrete Collaborative's Strands x Half Moon collection, designed by Natalie Meyers with a "Scandi-fornian" ethos, were incorporated around the fireplace. The kitchen, characterized by white cabinetry complemented by rattan and timber details, adopted a coastal chic style. Countertops were outfitted with expansive slabs of Concrete Collaborative’s Pacifica extra small marble chip terrazzo, paired with a backsplash from the Strands collection featuring a beige accent that subtly echoed the brass hardware and evoked sandy beaches. Terrazzo tiles were strategically used to establish a seamless flow across the entire ground floor, with their large, rectangular format enhancing the open-plan layout. This design extended to an outdoor entertaining area through large glass doors, facilitating an indoor/outdoor living experience year-round. The outdoor space includes a pool and lounge area paved with Concrete Collaborative Trails pavers and a bar clad in Dwell Tails tiles from the Strands collection, featuring bold, midcentury-inspired colors like Acacia. Additionally, Trestles Circle Breeze Blocks in Beige provided an elevated architectural pattern for a simple block bench. The playful approach to materials and patterns continued into the home's private areas, particularly the four distinct bathrooms. Each bathroom was given a unique character. The guest bathroom, connected to the pool area, aimed for a "lush feeling" using Strands x Dwell collection tiles in Universal Green and Ivory, with color inlaid using the traditional encaustic process for durability. The children’s bathroom adopted a dramatically different palette, featuring a Large Pink Chip terrazzo on the floors and pink striped Strands tiles on the shower walls, balanced with black hardware and a black speckled basin to avoid a overly cutesy appearance. Overall, the renovation successfully integrated Concrete Collaborative's products to achieve a harmonious and functional living space. The design choices, from the natural raw materials of the tiles to the beach-inspired color schemes, were tailored to the San Clemente beachside setting, resulting in a simple, relaxed, and cohesive aesthetic that fulfills the homeowners' vision. #HomeRenovation #CoastalDesign #ConcreteCollaborative #TerrazzoTiles #GeometricTiles #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign

Surfside House, designed by Andrew Burges Architects, is a compact family home in Clovelly, a beachside Sydney suburb. This project involved converting an existing semi-detached dwelling, where the ground floor was reimagined into bedrooms, and a new open living space was added above. The design responds to the coastal hillside site, suggesting a new neighborhood character through its tower-like form and integrated garden platforms. The ground floor of the Surfside House houses three bedrooms arranged around a central stair and study. The architects utilized overly wide doors to enhance light distribution and extend the perception of space. A main bedroom faces the street, while two children’s rooms at the rear open onto a small garden and connect to each other. This thoughtful allocation of doors creates a sense of continuous space throughout the ground level. To maximize the utility of the small rooms, built-in sleeping lofts were incorporated, providing each child with a private elevated space featuring a small window. The varied ceiling heights on this level, with their bulkheads and thresholds, define distinct areas and manipulate natural light to create pockets of shadow, making the rooms feel discrete even when doors are open. In stark contrast to the ground floor, the first-floor living room is a singular, expansive open space. Large windows offer ocean views and invite breezes, while nearby treetops and new planter beds bring greenery close to the interior. Timber walls and sliding screens contribute to a treehouse-like ambiance. A rear deck extending from the kitchen further integrates planting through built-in garden beds. The kitchen, dining, and lounge areas are unified under a raked ceiling that ascends to a generous corner skylight, making the room feel large and spacious. The kitchen joinery is crafted to resemble bespoke furniture, reflecting its role as the heart of the home for a cooking-focused family. Despite its open plan and large windows, the living room maintains a cozy and inviting atmosphere due to deliberate design choices. Deep reveals around most upper-level windows encourage occupants to sit and converse by the sill. A subtle separation between eating and lounging areas is achieved through a few steps and a low credenza, effectively zoning the space without dividing it. This allows for a sense of containment provided by the timber furniture. The Surfside House stands out in Clovelly, an area that has seen significant development from its original simple cottages to a mix of units, duplexes, and contemporary homes. The state government's "Complying development" planning controls have often led to new constructions that disregard neighborhood character. Surfside House, with its hardwood board cladding, clean roofline, and raised planters, intentionally diverges from the traditional brick cottage aesthetic. Its tower-like form, visible through a gap in banksia trees, is designed to harmonize with the rich vegetation of the eastern suburbs. The timber cladding blends with the giant banksias, and the built-in planters integrate with the tree canopy. This design approach not only revived a dilapidated cottage but also provided a growing family with a functional and aesthetically pleasing home within their community, potentially offering a new vision for neighborhood character and priorities. #SurfsideHouse #AndrewBurgesArchitects #CoastalLiving #ResidentialArchitecture #SydneyHomes #CompactDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #SustainableDesign

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

Winsome Interior Design undertook a project to transform a mishmash cottage in Nags Head, North Carolina, into a welcoming beach house, prioritizing a timeless, established look over a new-build aesthetic. The design team, led by Arianna Pannoni and Kasey Bedford, focused on creating a relaxed atmosphere where guests would feel comfortable. The core design philosophy centered on period-inspired millwork, durable high-performance textiles, and finishes that would age gracefully, ensuring the home felt as though it had always been part of the community. Key renovations included a strategic layout modification, where an underutilized closet off the kitchen was ingeniously converted into a coffee bar, designed to appear as an original built-in feature. The dining area was also expanded by incorporating space from the wraparound deck, creating a sun-drenched nook capable of seating up to 12 people, accommodating large family gatherings typical of summer vacations. These changes addressed practical needs while maintaining the desired aesthetic. The kitchen design was a collaborative effort between Winsome Interior Design and Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchens & Baths. It features two-tone cabinetry reminiscent of Julia Child's style, blending open shelving for easy access with closed cupboards for concealed storage. Unlacquered brass hardware and fittings were deliberately chosen for their potential to develop a natural patina over time, contributing to the vintage appeal. A notable design element throughout the home is the use of painted wood floors, specifically in 'Blue Nose' by Benjamin Moore. This choice was informed by historical coastal home designs, where painted floors were favored for their durability against sand and water, and ease of maintenance. The blue flooring extends across most of the 2,030-square-foot space, creating a cohesive and calming visual flow. V-groove paneling, a classic architectural detail, was extensively used in various areas, including the primary bathroom and powder room, further enhancing the home's aged character. The designers also opted to eliminate traditional closets in the four bedrooms, replacing them with more functional and less formal storage solutions like clever built-ins and case goods. This decision was based on the understanding that a beach house primarily serves as a casual retreat, where guests typically only need space for essentials like swimwear and shorts. Overall, the design successfully achieved a relaxed, lived-in feel, fulfilling the homeowners' desire for a home that exuded history and hospitality from the moment it was built. #InteriorDesign #BeachHouse #CoastalLiving #HomeRenovation #NagsHead #WinsomeInteriorDesign #PaintedFloors #KitchenDesign #VintageDecor

This article details the design of a contemporary North Carolina beach house, a vacation home for Lindsey and Wes Carter in Wrightsville Beach, their childhood town. The couple desired a relaxed, coastal, and modern aesthetic with a foundational palette of black and cream, accented by subtle pops of color and organic textures. Interior designer Cortney Bishop was tasked with creating a sophisticated yet approachable and kid-friendly environment. A significant design challenge was the home's upside-down floorplan, necessitated by a narrow lot. This three-story reversed layout features the entrance on the ground floor, leading to a central winding staircase that ascends to the kitchen, living area, and bedrooms on the upper floors. The ground floor entry was designed to be practical, incorporating a bench and hooks for beach essentials and wet towels, and featuring a distinctive feathered tile. To counteract the disorientation potentially caused by the reversed layout, Bishop incorporated visual interest and texture to guide occupants smoothly to the second-floor living spaces. Material choices and their intentional placement were crucial in creating a delightful experience, drawing focus towards the kitchen and living area, which were designed to feel connected to the home's surroundings. The kitchen cabinetry was custom-made to achieve an integrated "living room feel," featuring a bleach oak surfing detail that showcased excellent craftsmanship. A soft white paint color on the horizontal shiplap of the outer staircase wall, combined with vertical white oak accents on the inside of the stairs and a glass window from the second floor into the living area, helped eliminate any sense of perplexity regarding the layout. The kitchen and living space are highlighted as showstoppers, attributed to the quality of construction materials, including wide plank shiplap running horizontally and vertical oak accent panels in various areas, including the office. Bedrooms were given unique touches with wallpaper, while the primary bedroom was wrapped in oak, contributing to a captivating narrative throughout the house. Vintage lamps were used to add character and style to the primary bedroom. The design extended to the bathrooms, where a blend of organic elements, sophistication, and black elegance was maintained. The boys' room adopted a tribal surf theme with bunk beds, and the girls' room featured a fresh, fun atmosphere, with matching bleached white oak Kerfing cabinet accents seen throughout the home. The entire project, from concept to installation, spanned two and a half years, culminating in a home that deeply reflects the clients' personalities and lifestyle, achieving a distinct "vibe" that thrilled both the homeowners and the designer. #CoastalDesign #BeachHouse #ContemporaryHome #NorthCarolina #InteriorDesign #UpsideDownFloorplan #CustomCabinetry #OrganicTextures #ModernAesthetic

This article details the sophisticated redesign of a New Jersey beach house following its damage by fire. Interior designer Joan Enger of J Patryce Design, in collaboration with the original architect Richard Graham, undertook the task of resurrecting an updated version of the stately Southern Colonial home for a client who had owned the property since 1986. The client's vision for the home emphasized a 'subtle, sophisticated palette without an overtly ‘beachy’ feel,' moving away from traditional coastal decor stereotypes. Joan Enger focused on integrating vintage and custom furnishings and artwork to introduce interesting lines and forms, creating unexpected touches throughout the home. The design strategy involved mixing natural materials such as caning, seagrass, rift oak, shiplap, and textured linen to add depth and break up upholstery, ensuring durability while maintaining chic aesthetics. The renovated house, located in Spring Lake, known as the 'Irish Riviera,' boasts a regal and stately presence, situated proudly near the ocean amidst other impressive waterfront properties. The design drew inspiration from its surroundings, including the seagrass, sparkling sea spray, changing skies, and immaculate landscaping, to inform the color palette and design direction. Patterns were kept subtle, with an emphasis on texture and material variations like wood, caning, linen, and worn leather to convey the overarching design narrative. The interior spaces were designed for both intimate family gatherings and larger holiday events, featuring performance fabrics in high-use areas and special textiles in less frequented zones. The great room and living room were conceptualized to function both separately and as a cohesive space, reflecting the family's pattern of gathering. A focal point in the sitting room is a pair of vintage lounge chairs, which were so admired that copies were made for other areas, demonstrating the designer's ability to incorporate unique finds. The designer also made a conscious effort to warm up the new construction by incorporating a significant amount of vintage and custom pieces, with bookcases, surfaces, and walls adorned with collected objects rather than newly purchased items. The coastal kitchen, while retaining its original location, underwent a significant update to accommodate the growing family's needs. This included the addition of multiple seating areas, a butler’s pantry, a full-size mudroom, and a powder room, along with various access points to the back deck. The kitchen's aesthetic is clear and crisp, brought to life with character-filled elements such as Zellige tiles, brass hardware, rustic baskets, and ceramics. A chic banquette dining area further enhances the kitchen's sociable and laidback atmosphere. The dining room, adjacent to the hallway, is designed to comfortably seat 14 people, featuring oversized wooden chandeliers that serve as striking design focal points. The home includes eight bedrooms, each decorated in a modern coastal style with a consistent color palette. Contemporary additions like brass fittings and rattan headboards introduce textural interest. The primary bathroom stands out for its crisp and serene ambiance, offering ocean views from two sides. A custom-honed Carrara floor pattern in the primary bath adds a perfect amount of visual interest, completing the home's sophisticated transformation. #CoastalDesign #BeachHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SophisticatedPalette #NaturalMaterials #VintageFurnishings #NewJerseyHomes #SouthernColonial

This article highlights the transformation of a beachfront property in Manhattan Beach, Southern California, detailing how it received a bicoastal design makeover. The homeowners, East Coast natives who also own a Cape Cod house, desired a blend of traditional East Coast charm and contemporary West Coast style. The challenge involved revamping an interior that, despite its prime location and ocean views, was characterized by a dated Mediterranean aesthetic, featuring elements such as brown travertine, yellow paint, and a closed-off kitchen. Interior designer Mary Beth Christopher of MBC Interior Design was enlisted to undertake a comprehensive renovation of the five-bedroom, seven-bathroom residence. Her design approach sought to merge her own Southern California lifestyle influences with her East Coast roots, aiming to create spaces that were both elegant and lived-in. The initial phase of the renovation involved laying a new foundation with wide-planked oak flooring and painting virtually every surface with Benjamin Moore’s Simply White. Decorative lighting was updated throughout, and accents of navy and brass were strategically incorporated to introduce a contemporary coastal feel, moving beyond traditional nautical themes. A significant part of the transformation focused on the kitchen. Originally enclosed by a long wall, its removal dramatically increased the sense of space, allowing natural light to flood the area and providing unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean from multiple angles. The renovation also included practical enhancements, such as relocating the pantry entrance to accommodate a wet bar with a built-in Sub-Zero wine refrigerator and glass cabinetry. The new pantry door was designed to seamlessly blend with the kitchen cabinetry, creating a continuous and streamlined appearance. A notable design element in the kitchen is an Ilve range in midnight blue and brass, which serves as a striking focal point against the all-white backdrop. The article further details the redesign of other key areas within the home. An unused built-in desk near the pool was converted into a functional mudroom, offering a convenient drop-zone for towels and toys, complete with tall built-in cabinets, a bench, and hooks. The master bathroom underwent a complete overhaul, with travertine flooring replaced by marble, the built-in tub exchanged for a freestanding model, and new custom cabinetry installed to achieve a timeless aesthetic. In the powder rooms, distinct design choices were made. One powder room features a Zak & Fox cobalt and white printed wallpaper, offering a global and energetic take on a classic color combination. The second powder room, located off the home office, drew inspiration from navy leather and brass sconces, resulting in a 'Ralph Lauren meets Soho House' effect with textured herringbone wall covering. Secondary bathrooms also received updates, with outdated built-in bathtubs replaced by walk-in showers, and new tiles, mirrors, and plumbing fixtures. Existing cabinetry in these spaces was refreshed with new paint and hardware, while navy blue was used to create sleek and modern interpretations of coastal style in the boys' bathrooms. #CoastalDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #BathroomMakeover #BicoastalStyle #ManhattanBeach #ModernCoastal #LuxuryHomes

Kristin Harrison, founder and principal designer at Bungalow 10 Interiors, undertook the redesign of her McLean home with the goal of blending old-world British charm with laid-back California style, creating a cohesive and unique aesthetic. The design prioritizes a light and airy feel throughout the main living areas while incorporating 'jewel box' spaces that introduce moodiness and unexpected elements. One such 'jewel box' is the butler's pantry, painted in Sherwin Williams’ Grays Harbor, a deep bluish-gray. This space features shelving with brass railings for cookware display, a butcher block countertop, and unlacquered brass hardware, all contributing to a darker, more masculine ambiance. The powder room also embraces a moodier atmosphere. Harrison collaborated with a family-owned business in Turkey to custom-create a marble sink, which was then paired with a base crafted from reclaimed wood sourced from a demolished church in Charlottesville by local woodworker Julian Adams. A vintage Louis Philippe brass mirror completes this distinctive room. In the kitchen, Harrison emphasized functionality, working with Unique Kitchens and Baths to ensure the layout suited her family's lifestyle. She selected a cabinet color that exhibits a chameleon effect, appearing as a blend of green, gray, and taupe to avoid being overtly trendy. Elba Blue Honed marble was chosen for the countertops, backsplash, and island, valued for its ability to age gracefully without showing every imperfection. Unlacquered brass in the sink faucet, pot filler, and cabinetry hardware further enhances the kitchen's design. The widespread use of raw materials throughout the home was a deliberate choice. Harrison incorporates these materials into all her projects, noting their tendency to improve with age and their resilience to wear and tear, which is particularly beneficial for a family with young children and a large dog. The breakfast nook exemplifies this approach, featuring a reclaimed pine wood table, cane-backed chairs, and a jute rug, creating a space rich in natural textures and light. The study was conceived as a 'cool, little parlor' and another 'jewel box' area, designed for both work and relaxation. Dark paint extending to the ceiling creates an immersive feel, complemented by a Troy Lighting chandelier chosen for its 'cigar room' aesthetic. Vintage pieces collected during the Harrisons' travels, along with memorabilia, are displayed on shelving. A leather office chair, mossy green armchairs, and bronze and brass accents complete the masculine and inviting space. In the primary bathroom, Harrison opted for a long, clean-looking raw white oak cabinet, paired with a Bardiglio gray marble countertop and white vertical shiplap to add texture. The highlight of the bathroom is an arched, all-marble walk-in shower, designed for a custom appearance. The primary bedroom, dining, and living rooms were designed to maintain the home's overall bright and airy feel, with elements pulled from the rest of the house to ensure cohesion. Harrison's favorite room is the sitting room off the entryway, which, despite initial skepticism from her husband, has become a cherished and frequently used space due to its natural light and calming atmosphere. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #McLeanHome #OldWorldCharm #CoastalVibes #RawMaterials #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #Bungalow10Interiors

This blog post details a significant renovation of a 1970s South County residence, focusing on how lighting fixtures from Metro Lighting, in collaboration with KH Interiors, transformed the home. The project was led by interior designer Krista Howard of KH Interiors and Heidi Sanders of Metro Lighting, aiming to create a practical yet elevated space for a busy family of five. The renovation extended beyond a simple kitchen update, evolving into a two-story expansion that now includes a spacious cooking and dining area, along with a covered outdoor porch. Each design element was meticulously chosen to accommodate the family's active lifestyle, encompassing sports schedules, entertaining needs, and daily functionality. The team involved architect William Cover, Lurk’s Custom Cabinets, and photographer Anne Mathias, with Metro Lighting playing a crucial role in curating the home's lighting. In the reimagined kitchen, two large orb pendants are prominently featured above dual islands, one dedicated to storage and the other to function. These orbs are complemented by onyx stone cylinder fixtures that not only echo the kitchen's stone details but also cast a soft, sculptural glow. Above the breakfast table, a sleek gold fixture introduces a contrasting element, its simplicity providing a calm balance to the kitchen's more dynamic design features, creating a cohesive and visually appealing central gathering space. The lighting design extends thoughtfully into other areas of the home, transforming even transitional spaces. A hallway adjacent to the kitchen, referred to as the “kitchen hall,” connects bedrooms to public areas. Here, lighting is strategically used to gently illuminate stone accents, turning a functional corridor into a refined and welcoming passage. This attention to detail ensures that lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose throughout the residence. The powder room and the adjacent lower-level pool changing area draw inspiration from the past, featuring brass vertical sconces reminiscent of 1940s design. These fixtures are paired with playful wallpaper to create an inviting retro-modern ambiance. The lighting in these areas is described as “quiet and classic,” designed to support the functionality of the space without becoming the dominant focal point, allowing other design elements to shine while providing adequate illumination. Beyond its aesthetic contributions, the home incorporates smart lighting and automated window treatments, enhancing both convenience and energy efficiency. These modern features allow the family to easily adjust their living environment, whether for hosting guests, relaxing in the evening, or quickly departing the house, all without compromising the home's timeless design integrity. Lurk’s Custom Cabinets further anchored the space with exceptional craftsmanship, coordinating finishes and cabinetry details with the overall lighting plan to ensure a harmonious visual flow between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Ultimately, this South County residence represents more than just a renovation; it is a testament to thoughtful design, sustained collaboration, and the transformative power of architectural lighting. The project effectively elevates not only the home’s structure and aesthetics but also significantly enhances the family’s daily living experience. Through the combined expertise of Metro Lighting and KH Interiors, a once-dated kitchen has been revitalized into a radiant and central hub for connection and comfort within the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #KitchenRemodel #SmartHome #ArchitecturalLighting #KHInteriors #MetroLighting