We always say that we design for laid-back California living. Our spaces are family-friendly but elevated, refined but livable. But what does that mean exactly and how does it translate to actual, physical spaces? I'm breaking down our signature style to give you a glimpse into what makes a Lindsey Brooke-designed room special.
Palos Verdes Living Room | Photo by Public 311 Design
Natural Materials
There are so many ways to incorporate natural materials into a project, and they are really what makes a room come alive. Natural stone, wood grain, woven elements, and even fabrics like linen bring the texture that makes a room feel cozy and inviting. Real, solid materials bring a sense of permanence to a room that just cannot be replicated with synthetics, so when we choose man-made options for ease of care (hello, Quartz countertops!), we are sure to choose a natural option elsewhere.
Pacific Palisades Dining Nook | Photo by Amy Bartlam
Space to Breathe
A quick look at my work and it is fairly obvious that I like to use shades of white, particularly on the walls. Of course, that has been a trending look for the last few years, and is definitely a hallmark of casual California style, but there is more to it than that. White or light-colored walls help a room breathe and -- when the right shade is used -- give a bright, open feeling. They also help the walls fade into the background to allow other elements in the room to take the center stage. White is particularly helpful in another design element I use often: contrast. Dark elements really pop against a light backdrop, and that light-dark combination keeps the eye moving around the space.
Dallas Project Office| Photo by Amy Bartlam
Modern Elements
I love the tension that sleek, modern elements bring to a space. The juxtaposition between traditional or curvy pieces and a hard, straight line is part of what makes a space interesting and unexpected. Modern elements tend to bring that masculine feel, which keeps a room from feeling too sweet or precious.
North Ranch Remodel Den | Photo by Amy Bartlam
Tonal Color
I recently visited the immersive Monet exhibit and I was reminded how much his work influenced me after a visit to Giverny as a teen. I find so much inspiration in the way he uses color and how tonal shades can work together to tell a story. In my own work, I often use many shades of one color (like blue in the living room above) to have a subtle, layered effect that isn't neutral, but isn't bright or bold either. It isn't boring, but it is restful and very easy to live with. Color is also a natural way to create cohesion in the design of an entire home, so we often choose a tight palette of one or two main colors and weave them throughout the home in different shades and using different prints and textures.
Dallas Project Primary Bedroom | Photo by Amy Bartlam
Personal Art
In our Dallas house, our client commissioned a piece for the primary bedroom that incorporated song lyrics played at their wedding, and let me tell you, there was not a dry eye in the place on reveal day! Art -- more than other objects -- has the power to bring so much of the homeowners' personality into the space, I daresay it's crucial for truly making a house a home. And, not all of it needs to be framed pieces in the traditional sense. Framed or hanging textiles, interesting pottery or sculptural pieces, or even handmade lamps not only make a room interesting, but they offer glimpse into the lives and interests of its inhabitants.
South Bay Family Room| Photo by Public 311 Design
Practicality Rules
It's easy to think that aesthetics are my chief concern, and they are important, but functionality has to rule the day. Thoughtful functionality can improve the quality of life so much, it cannot be over stated. And as a busy mom of two busy boys, I get it! The sports equipment has to have a permanent place to live between practices, the toy organization needs to be simple and intuitive, and everyone needs to be able to find their shoes on a busy morning. Access to our things when we need them and a place to put them away when we do not is vital, and well-designed spaces can go a long way toward making that happen. Materials are important here, too. If you have kids and pets, we are going to chose a super-durable flooring and performance. Trust me, your life will be easier!
If you resonate with our style and would like to chat about an upcoming project, please get in touch by filling out an inquiry form.
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