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.

The Way We Live: Art In An Updated Ranch

Earlier this summer, I had the pleasure of touring the home of Christy Mack, art lover, collector and consultant.  Her house is a mix of vintage and new mid-century furnishings, objects of interest and art, LOTS of it. She has a knack for finding and placing canvases.   Whether in a client's home or in her own, Christy combines colors, textures and curiosities in a effortless way.    

Growing up with parents that antiqued and thrift store shopped, she learned "the thrill of the find" and later, through her mother in-law's extensive art collection, she became familiar with the who's who in the art world.   As you walk through her beautiful home, you'll experience photographs taken by her and her husband and her son's art alongside noteworthy oils hanging or layered on walls and surfaces creating many visual treats.

When Christy is not out immersing herself in the art by working with artists, galleries, museums and art collectors she is serving the community.  Christy recently served as  President at the Lafayette Juniors League and is a founding member of 100 Plus Women Who Care Contra Contra County.  Both of these organizations raise funds for other local non-profits that benefit women, children and seniors in need.  

Thank you, Christy, for your efforts on behalf of many in our community and beyond for sharing your house with us! 

 For the readers who would like to know more about the non profit organizations that Christy is part of please click here and here.

You find Christy on Instagram @cmackorart

Fund Raising Design: Lafayette Juniors Kitchen Tour May 14, 2016

It's that time of year again when Lafayette Juniors hosts its annual Kitchen Tour.  Last year, the non-profit organization featured our newly renovated kitchen.  It was an honor to be part of such an amazing fundraising event. Not only does one get an chance to view some amazing kitchen designs to inspire one's own, but it's also an opportunity to support one's local community.  The proceeds from the ticket sales benefit local organizations that provide exceptional support for families, children and seniors living in the Contra Costa county areas. This Saturday, May 14th, is the group's 17th tour.  

Tickets are still available.  For more information click here.  In the meantime take a sneak peek at two of the five homes featured this year. 

Get a group of your friends together and join the tour.  It's a great way to spend a Saturday and give back at the same time!

Out And About: PodArt Studio

Visiting my mother-in-law's PodArt studio is an adventure for the senses.  She utilizes seed pods, foraged branches, lichen and precious stones to create one of kind wall sculptures.  Whenever I'm there, I want to touch and closely examine all the materials she uses.  From feathers to birch bark, it's all very intriguing to me.  I'm happy to announce that Natalia will soon have her PodArt website up and running.  In the mean time take a look at a few images of her studio from my last visit:

Stay tuned for the PodArt website launch...