Styling #redwoodlanechd: Before And After

This was an exciting project for me, not only because I'm a huge fan of the client, co-founder of AMP (Art Moves Project), but because I've admired her house for some time now.  It is a John Lum Architects' design with modern lines, Asian accents, extensive wood detailing and lots of natural light.  In order to honor its construction and the aesthetic goals of the client the interiors needed to be styled.  Here's what CHD did:

LIVING ROOM //

Finding the right color palette to complement the existing wood details throughout the house was first thing I tackled.  Corals, blues and tans became the go-to color combination.  The amber leather sofa was definitely staying, so the colors I chose needed to work with this focal piece and they do.  Some furnishings were removed and others re-positioned.  Thereafter, rugs, pillows and occasional furnishings were sourced and placed.  Using items the client had stored away I accessorized the built-ins and the fireplace mantle.  A Blu Dot tray and some of my estate sales' scores found their way into the space as well.  A dramatic triptych by LA artist Kristi Head was hung in the 3 built-in nooks, and lastly, botanicals were added to soften and liven the space.

BEFORE //

AFTER //

DINING AREA //

The seating in the dining and island areas was updated and simplified.  Colorfully patterned plywood chairs were selected for the island area and reclaimed wood benches framed the rectangular dining table.  This eliminated the "too many" chairs effect and allowed for many children to easily saddle up for meals.

FAMILY ROOM //

A butterfly-motif wallpaper was hung in the family room to both add interest and to soften the impact of the large leather sofa.  The same chairs that were added to the kitchen island are used here as well, surrounding the pedestal craft/snack table.  This kept the flow between the areas cohesive and balanced.  The piano was moved against the wallpaper wall, where it is now visible from the main living area.  A cozy Moroccan rug was placed under the sofa and a round, brass-accented coffee table lends a surface area for remotes and tiny feet.

Thank you, YF and PM, for allowing Cocoon Home Design the opportunity to work with you both.  I hope you enjoy the newly decorated spaces in your beautiful home.

Out And About: the piece. store

the piece. store, a beautifully curated clothing and accessories store in Lafayette, Ca., has become a favorite  shop of mine.   Owner and buyer, Renee Sitzman opened the store in 2015 and has since been scouting and purchasing unique pieces that not only coordinate with each other, but update any East Bay wardrobe in need of revamping.  I first meet Renee when I introduced The Cass Clutch to her.  I'm thrilled to announce that she and the piece. store is now carry it.  Take a look at some of images of the space and Renee's very special collection of carefully selected fashion pieces. 

If you love fashion, but your schedule doesn't allow you to shop in San Francisco and beyond, you can now stay current and chic on a local basis.  the piece. store can and will meet ALL of your wardrobe needs.  Located at 3569 Mt Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, Ca.

Cocoon Home Style Directions for 2018

Here are a few images that have caught my eye lately that I suspect will define Cocoon Home's 2018 style both for living and dressing in the coming months.   Fewer but bolder home accessories, statement chairs either paired or not,  windows with full on botanical views, curved sofas, feminine pleats, confident blazers and high top sneakers.   Take a look:

An Updated Mid-Century: Before And After

When I was asked to update and decorate this mid-century home, I will admit to have been quite excited.  Living in a mid-century house myself, I'm well aware of the characteristics and materials used during that era and have grown to appreciate and love them.   Themselves fans of the architecture and design of the time, my clients wanted to honor them as well, without completely appointing their space purely with iconic period pieces.  

We first focused on the living room, dining area and entry way.  A furniture layout was created to give the space better flow and plenty of seating for family and friends.  With the use of textiles and color, we brought those areas together for a fluid, cohesive feel.  Heath Ceramic wallpaper was hung in the entry to brighten it up.  Clean-lined contemporary furniture, carefully curated accessories (mostly their own) were added to the living areas and focal lighting was installed.  Presently, the home represents the clients' aesthetics while preserving their home's mid-century appeal.

Heath Ceramic tiles and sheet rock replaced the brick fireplace as a dramatic update, creating a true focal point for the space.

Moroccan poufs flank the oversized coffee table for extra seating, while a black and white ceramic stool doubles up as an additional surface.

Two matching occasional chairs found at a consignment shop await reupholpstering. 

Botanicals placed by the glass walls bring the outdoors in and lend an organic atmosphere. 

Vintage prints my clients brought back from a trip to Japan, were hung 'gallery' fashion in the dining room, creating depth and interest in the room. 

Thank you BP and JP for allowing me the opportunity to work with you on your beautiful home.  

The Way We Live: A Writer's Coastal Home

While photographing Kristen Philipkoski of Stylenik modeling her Cass Clutch, I couldn't resist taking a few photographs of her home.  I suspected that it would be a cool space and was hoping to capture it on camera, which thankfully,  she allowed.  Tucked on a hillside in Pacifica, ocean views, crisp air and sea scents surround her cozy abode from every angle.  Layered with textiles, colors and patterns, her home is styled much as she is:  with a sophisticated, yet whimsical retro flair.  

She recently featured The Cass Clutch on her blog, which was a definite honor for me as its designer.  Kristen writes about luxury fashion, design and lifestyle.  She's a regular contributor to Forbes, has written for Refinery 29, Racked and 7x7, and also reported on science and technology for Wired and Gizmodo.  She has a flawless way with words, with California fashion and, quite obviously, with interior decorating.  

Take a look at her home:

Many thanks, Kristen, for sharing your home with Cocoon Home readers and me.