Wall Street Journal

New England Cozy Meets L.A. Chic in a Charming California Home

A young family yearned to blend their fondness for the homey interior design of Vermont and the refinement of their life in Los Angeles. Here’s the elegant but livable result.

Written By Antonia van der Meer

Photography by Sam Frost

Styling by Lisa Rowe

When Jack Donaldson and Julia Bredrup bought a 1920s house in the Mar Vista neighborhood of Los Angeles, it came with a lot of sunlight but not much warmth. In searching for an emotional back story to inform its new décor, Mr. Donaldson, a screenwriter, and his wife, an attorney, couldn’t help but draw from their meet-cute at Middlebury College in Vermont. When they hired local interior designer Stefani Stein, the shared goal was to inject understated New England style into the more refined L.A. life they live now. “It was a great fit,” said Ms. Stein, who happily brought this mashup-design script to life: “I love the juxtaposition of raw and relaxed with elegance.”

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House & Home

 
5 Designers Share Their Secrets For Achieving California-Cool Style

5 Designers Share Their Secrets For Achieving California-Cool Style

MARCH 12 2020

There’s a reason why California style is loved by more than just those who live by the beach. Natural wovens, earth tones and crisp white linens emulate a “go with the flow” sensibility. Even if you’re miles from the shore, you can take inspiration from this laid-back aesthetic no matter where you live. We sat down with five West Coast designers and asked them their must-haves for bringing California-cool style home.

Think Light & Bright

“Bright, sunny spaces with neutral foundations exude a classic California version of coastal vibes,” says Los Angeles-based designer Stefani Stein.

Add A Splash Of Drama

“California isn’t only about minimalistic neutrals though. An eclectic aesthetic has long been synonymous with California’s fun-loving lifestyle. While current interpretations are a bit more toned down than the likes of the great American artist Tony Duquette, his influence certainly still lives on today.”

Master The Mix

“Laidback luxury brings that subtle mix of glamorous refinement and effortless California living.”

Get Moody

“A bit of black can be a more dramatic take on neutral interiors and just the right amount of edge for infusing your space with that California-cool feel.”

Go Green

“Earthy hues abound. Try using a palette inspired by nature in your home.”

 
Source: https://houseandhome.com/gallery/designer-advice-california-cool-style/

House & Home

While winter has us feeling cozy and cuddly, we can’t help but dream of checking into a rejuvenating retreat or spending a few days of fun in the sun. Given their champagne taste in all things design, we asked 12 design stars what hot spots they’re fantasizing about right now. From an island surf resort to a luxe hotel wedged in between Colorado’s dramatic canyons and a romantic restaurant in Turks and Caicos, these dreamy destinations have been designer tested and approved. Bon voyage!

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The Zoe Report

There are just some home decor trends that look perfect in pictures, but are hard to imagine implementing into your space logistically. For some, it's ultra modern furniture or fixtures, for others it's a bold, of-the-moment hue (like neon green or bright fuchsia). But if adorning your walls is the area you feel especially wary about, designers are here to tell you it's easier than you think. And with a few expert tips on how to choose wallpaper for your living room, transforming this communal part of your home doesn't have to feel so intimidating.

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