Built in 1955, this Auburn, CA home was ready for a renovation. The homeowner—a single woman who loves to entertain—wanted to update the interior flow and bring in natural, earthy elements as a homage to the home’s surroundings, which include lots of beautiful walking trails. “The client and contractor [Daniel Lillis Construction] partnered with AMS Drafting & Design to update the footprint, including opening the kitchen and dining room and enlarging the primary bedroom and ensuite,” says Alison Haltom, founder and lead designer of Design for Living. “Once completed, Design for Living focused on space planning. In addition, two levels of exterior balconies off the back of the house were extended out, and several windows were implemented to allow the natural light to flood in.”
Style-wise, Alison describes the transitional spaces as “earthy, modern, eclectic, and moody.” This is best seen in the cozy living room. “A statement marble fireplace was created from a single slab with a simple mitered edge frame,” Alison explains. Burnt orange velvet curtains frame the large front windows, and a dark grey leather sectional and marble-topped coffee table sit on an antique woven Malayer area rug. To further personalize the home, a gallery wall just off the living room showcases heirloom photos of the client’s family in Greece.”
Black metal shelves are built into the wall dividing the living room and kitchen, connecting the two spaces. In the kitchen, a large island serves as a prep station, while open shelves flank the range and full-height cabinetry hides a pantry and coffee bar.
Stone is featured again in the powder room, thanks to a gorgeous Michelangelo quartzite vanity and integrated sink. “A wall-mount faucet with brass fixtures adds glam to a moody aesthetic,” Alison explains. “Farrow and Ball Carriage Green walls and ceiling complement the Nero Marquina marble mosaic floor.” There’s a guest bathroom that is just as dramatic, with forest green hand-fired ceramic tile and a terrazzo mosaic floor.
The primary bedroom features moody black furniture, but white linen curtains and soft grey textures soften the space, which serves as her private retreat. “The en suite boasts textured black and white wall tiles accented with brass plumbing fixtures and a matte white freestanding tub that are warmed by a walnut vanity with thick black granite countertop,” the designer explains. There’s also a custom closet that’s finished with black and white cabinetry and accented with gold hardware.
The client’s own pieces helped to finish the space. “She has a passion for antiques and once owned an antique shop before stepping in to run her family’s landscape supply company with her brother,” the designer explains. “Her love for storied items is highlighted through the quirky collection of antiques placed throughout her home.”
Take a tour in the slideshow.
