Architectural Renovation on the American Riviera

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Stephan Jones | Studio performs an interior architecture function on many projects. We look at the entirety of a space and consider how best to realize its full potential so that the spaces flow and function in an effective and appealing manner. 

This project is located in a condominium complex with a beautiful oceanfront setting on the "American Riviera" in Montecito, next door to the historic Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club. The complex, built in the early 1970's, is rather non-descript and the unit itself was in its original condition.

The setting was spectacular. In fact, it was so special it made the original interior seem that much more lackluster by comparison. Our job was to elevate the apartment, in terms of its layout, finishes and furnishings. We needed to bring the interior space into a balance with the spectacular oceanfront location. 

Our job was to elevate the apartment

For the main spaces, we designed a floor plan so that the living room, dining room and kitchen all flow together. Framing the views to help visually expand the interior space was the primary inspiration in developing the new space plan.

Another significant change that the client requested was the creation of a third bedroom. The original primary suite was over-scaled and awkward. We were able to create an additional bedroom with an en-suite bathroom while creating a feeling of separateness and privacy in the original primary suite. 

Taking the beach resort setting into account, our furniture plan focused on classic mid-century pieces from Knoll. Custom design details were incorporated throughout the interior architecture and space planning to create a classic coastal look.

We chose to go with a muted palette

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...that speaks to the washed down driftwood colors found in the surrounding environment. For example, the walls in the main spaces were paneled in a limed oak, and the wide plank oak flooring is washed in color. This muted palette continues into the bedrooms with a textural raffia wallcovering and limed white oak elements.

This project was a huge success because when it was complete, there was a harmony in the layout of the space and the finishes we used. The indoor and outdoor spaces flow together and are now on the same elevated level of design. The interior architecture seamlessly roots this home to its environment.