Some homes just get you at first sight, and this was one of them. Built in the 1960s on a breathtaking property, this ranch-style home had adobe walls, warm wood details, and incredible outdoor views, but the interiors weren’t quite living up to their potential. The homeowners loved the character of their home, but they needed it to feel more functional, welcoming, and refined. Instead of a full renovation, we took a thoughtful approach, embracing the home’s midcentury roots while adding layers, softness, and a touch of ‘70s cool. One of the biggest challenges? Filling the large, open spaces with...
Read More
Project Tour: Midcentury Meets Adobe
Some homes just get you at first sight, and this was one of them. Built in the 1960s on a breathtaking property, this ranch-style home had adobe walls, warm wood details, and incredible outdoor views, but the interiors weren’t quite living up to their potential. The homeowners loved the character of their home, but they needed it to feel more functional, welcoming, and refined.
Instead of a full renovation, we took a thoughtful approach, embracing the home’s midcentury roots while adding layers, softness, and a touch of ‘70s cool. One of the biggest challenges? Filling the large, open spaces with furniture that felt both useful and inviting—ensuring every piece had a purpose while maintaining the home’s flow.
Library Shelves Ikea Hack DIY
Back in 2020 my dad and I designed this built-in library shelving for my dining room. The budget was to tight for custom cabinetry, so we figured out a way to build the idea I had in my head using Ikea and a whole lot of trim. Over the years I’ve referenced this project a lot in my DIY consultations and have had a few people tag me in their own versions (so cool!). I always wished I had written an explanation with visuals so I’m finally doing it. Keep in mind, this was close to 4 years ago, so we’re going by memory, but hope this is helpful!
ORC Fall 2023 :: Week 8
ITS DONE. I low-key wasn’t sure I was going to get the room buttoned-up and to shoot before Reveal Day but I freaking did it. I had just enough left on my To Do list that it was an intense couple days to get it all done before my photographer (also my sister-in-law!) left for vacation on Monday, I’m so happy I pushed myself because now we can enjoy the room and get our house back in order! So on that note, let’s go through each part of the room! I mentally broke the space into 3 zones: The seating area, the fireplace/bookcase, and the entry hall.
ORC Fall 2023 :: Week 7
When we bought our house I fell in love with the huge, floor-to-ceiling windows in this room that framed the view to our back yard and all the wildlife we see back there. So when we moved in I immediately removed the 50 year old crumbling drapery and lived without coverings for the last 7 years. It hasn’t been a huge problem because our yard is so private, but the last couple years I started wanting to add softness to that wall and it does get cold during the winter months when you’re sitting by it.
Midcentury Moroccan Bathroom Reveal
When asked to design a bathroom that felt like spa with vintage and global inspiration we jumped at the chance. The client is an artist, yoga instructor and genuine kind soul, and had never had a bathroom that she could unwind and relax in. Before This original 1960’s bathroom needed a complete revival to match
ORC Fall 2023 :: Week 6
Things are really happening in Week 6! Especially a few installation jobs (electrical work, drapery install and fireplace tile) that I’ve been worried about because we can’t DIY them. But I think I’ve gotten over the big hurdles and its all happening! Keep reading to see the progress!
ORC Fall 2023 :: Weeks 4-5
This is a combo Week 4-5 post because all the action is coming at the end.
You’ve seen that we have a big, cozy sectional which is deep and luxurious but makes it a little difficult to reach your beverage of choice on the coffee table. In the old setup we had a sofa table sandwiched against the wall but it was a couple shelves balanced on some stands. It was never meant to be permanent but it never officially broke, so we never officially fixed it. You can see it in the photo below with the baskets precariiously balanced on it.
ORC Fall 2023 :: Week 3
Apologies to every other important part of this project, but the moment I was most waiting the arrival of the new sectional. Being a designer without well-functioning furniture in your own home is a special kind of torture. We guide our clients to all the amazing pieces that will hold up to their lifestyles and fit their spaces, but meanwhile I’m looking around my house not loving what I see.
