Rooms have emotions too!

St. Francis of the Mountains -

Fallen Leaf Lake, California

La Sagrada Família -

Barcelona, Spain

It’s easy to identify a single purpose for a room regardless of the who, what, where, how, why.

My dining room, your dining room, their dining room – a place to eat.

My bedroom, your bedroom, their bedroom - a place to sleep.

You get it.

Now try to identify a single emotion, vibe, feeling for each space. Not so easy, is it?

Every space has a spirit. A mood. An energy.

For example. We’ve visited a few churches in our travels. Total opposite ends of the spectrum. St. Francis of the Mountains in Fallen Leaf Lake, California and Basilica de la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. One a humble wooden structure. The other a masterful example of artistry. Both exist for one purpose; to glorify God. Yet, each manifests a variety of very different emotions.

Calm. Quiet. Modest.

Monumental. Elaborate. Awesome.

I say this with love, the feelings your house conveys has everything do with you and not your stuff. And, yes, (including the $2 billion solid gold Funeral Mask of Tutankhamun) it’s just stuff.

Do your guests feel comfortable enough to “take their coats off and stay awhile?” Are feet allowed on the coffee table? Do you shake it off when something spills because accidents do happen?

Are there more pillows than bodies on the couch? Is your dishwasher filled and started before the dinner party is over? Do you cringe when a beverage sweats on your table?

We design rooms to last. We spend money where it makes sense. Durable fabrics. Solid wood furniture. Washable wall treatments. The initial investment; more expensive for sure, but chosen for action not show.

We design rooms to be used. We use what we own. We showcase what we like. We celebrate what we’ve created. We highlight important pieces of familial history. We tell the occupant’s story.

A dear friend’s words, “In case I forget to tell you later. You make the most beautiful homes. I’ve always told you that about the Ladera house and you’ve done the same thing here. Absolutely stunning and impeccable decor, but so comfortable and enjoyable to be in. I always feel welcome!!! So happy to be here.” 

This… This is design!