California Coastal: Seaside Living from Sea Ranch to San Diego

Hebert and Ewald follow up Design Mixology with a sumptuous showcase of luxury beachfront homes in the Golden State. A modernist ethos prevails throughout, as seen in the sparsely decorated, minimalist bedroom of a Santa Cruz bungalow or the open floor plan of a Sea Ranch abode. Exploring how the homes’ architects draw influence from the landscape, the authors describe how designer Dan Weber preserved the impression of untouched nature when constructing a Santa Barbara County house by building the structure into a hillside and covering the roof with native vegetation. Also spotlighted is Butler Armsden Architects’ renovation of a Sonoma house with locally sourced redwood and Douglas fir exterior paneling, and a blue glass kitchen backsplash that evokes the sea. Other architects took their cues from their clients, the authors write, discussing how Jae Omar designed the spacious interiors of a Palisades home to reflect the owners’ openness. In addition to providing valuable insight into how architects conceive their designs, the authors demonstrate the transformative effect that one statement piece can have on a room, such as striking walnut paneling carved to resemble rippling waves or a reflective dining table with curved surfaces intended to resemble a melting glacier. Connoisseurs of high-end design will find much to savor. (June)