While we’re all for decorating with bright colors, we have to admit: sometimes, we really just love neutrals.
There’s something so calming about a palette of grays, whites and the ever-dreaded beige (which gets a bad rap it does not deserve). Done right, neutrals can be chic, sophisticated, and above all, serene. Such is certainly the case with this home, designed by Mary McDonald, which we came across on COCOCOZY. The post on COCOCOZY is titled, “Mary McDonald cleanses color” – and it’s an apt description for this Los Angeles home, which is a study in grays and blues. It’s amazing how just a few colors, done in varying shades and patterns, can make even a subdued space come alive. According to CC, McDonald designed this home for a couple in their early thirties with the goal of lightening and brightening the space. Her description? “A clean modern California take on French country with a teeny bit of industrial sparseness.”
As the story goes, the home before the remodel was dreary and dark as can be. Utilizing a muted color palette of ivory, oatmeal, beige, grey and taupe, complimented by hints of lavender, aqua and celadon, McDonald breathed new life into the tired space, creating an oasis in the City of Angels – perfect for a young family with children. Though the colors are quiet, the space never borders on boring, thanks to patterns galore: there are stripes on the curtains in the living room; two-toned herringbone wood floors can be found in kitchen, while beautiful floral wallpaper adorns the walls of the dressing room.
Carrara marble, jute rugs, mirrored armoires, and statement lighting help to round out the space, filling it with texture and life. Industrial style pendants in the kitchen bring a sense of old world charm to the space, while striped tufted armless chairs add modern appeal. Velvet, mirrors, clean lines and a dash of Hollywood Regency can be found in the living room, which opens up to a gorgeous outdoor space that continues the muted color theme. Meanwhile, in the master bedroom, you’ll find a modern take on the Parisian boudoir (and one that would rival Napoleon’s Chateau Malmaison).
Ah, what a beautiful home. Really, what’s not to love? Tell us: what’s your favorite room in this space? Want to see more of this gorgeous space? Pick up the new issue of House Beautiful.
