California style interior design is cherished by a lot more than those who live near the seaside, thanks to its warm colors and natural textures. These homes are almost always bright, spacious, and welcoming, which is why those who don't live near the beach like to be inspired by the California aesthetic.
Continue reading as we explore California modern interior design and discuss everything from its history, critical elements, and real-world examples!
History of California Interior Design Style
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California coastal interior design ideas are for those who enjoy an easy and inviting ambiance, with a focus on ease and serenity. This style can be seen in a variety of places, ranging from ancient Spanish Colonial residences in San Diego to beach estates along the Malibu beachfront.
But where does the interior design originate? California's Modern architecture has its roots in the 1940s when architects and designers took an interest in designing structures with a strong link to the environment.
This design was inspired by multiple things, including the rustic appeal of Mediterranean houses and the relaxed lifestyle of Southern California. This was in stark contrast to the opulent Victorian-style homes that were typical at the time.
It can be hard to pinpoint a single inventor of the California style house, however, designers such as Michael Taylor and Tony Duquette have been credited with contributing to the evolution of California style interior design. Today, we can witness California interior design style in Kelly Wearstler's work.
Michael Taylor brilliantly challenged his contemporaries' views by consistently condemning the crowded and pretentious interior style. He believed that when you take something out, you need to maximize the size of what's left, which explains the airiness of California’s interior design style.
Taylor lovers describe his creations as clean and straightforward, yet with a rustic and glamorous twist. Taylor's use of light, however, is the one that distinguished him. He believed that white was the most effective color for capturing light, and he cleverly used a basic background to make colors stand out in his work.
We can now witness a more updated version of the Cali design style in the work of Kelly Wearstler, whose distinctive luxurious and vivid interiors can be found in stately houses and luxury hotels. Her works are mostly influenced by travel, nature, architecture, and fashion.
5 Key Elements of California Interior Design Style
Inspired by the breathtaking beauty of California's scenery and environment, this interior design style has a calm, casual, yet refined look. Do you want to incorporate California-style interior design into your home? What follows are the key components for successfully implementing the design style in any space.
1. White and Warm Colored Walls
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White walls are important in California style houses because they provide a light and spacious ambiance. They reflect natural light and give a neutral backdrop for other design components to stand out and make an impression.
White walls are frequently used in conjunction with natural materials to create an intimate setting that is both comfortable and stylish. The choice of white walls in this style also contributes to the sensation of indoor-outdoor living by allowing natural light to flow freely.
Another advantage of white walls in California interior design is their adaptability. White walls can serve as a backdrop for any design style, whether it is boho, modern, or classic.
2. Neutral Furniture
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Neutral-colored furniture is a common choice in California interior design because it is easy to care for and has a timeless appeal. The use of neutral colors such as beige, gray, and brown in a California home also provides a versatile canvas for adding splashes of color through decor items and artwork.
More than that, neutral furniture contributes to an open and breezy atmosphere, which is emphasized in California style homes. Overall, the usage of these pieces of furniture allows designers to create an environment that is both attractive and ageless, without bombarding the senses.
3. Natural Textures and Patterns
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The main purpose of using natural textures and patterns in Californian homes is to bring the beauty of nature into the home. These materials are frequently left in their natural state or polished with a delicate stain to create a modern yet unique feel.
Natural textures and patterns, such as marble, stone, and wood, will help add a sense of tranquillity and calmness to the environment. If you cannot find natural textures and patterns that appeal to you, geometric forms and animal prints can be employed to provide visual interest and depth to the layout.
4. Rustic Charm
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Rustic decor is important in California interior design, especially in creating a hospitable atmosphere. The decor can take numerous forms, such as exposed wood beams, terracotta tiling, or natural stucco walls.
Rustic décor also works nicely with other California interior design features like natural textures and modest walls. In the living room, for example, a worn-out leather sofa may provide seating while also providing a relaxed, vintage-style atmosphere.
5. Decorative Elements
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Colorful paintings or huge lush greenery placed near a neutral-colored wall are common in California coastal design as focal points. Such artwork and decorative elements are important in this design style since they can give a place personality and character.
Despite the fact that things may seem chaotic at times, California interior design emphasizes that everything has a place and a purpose. Whether you like it or not, there's no doubt that California Modern is here to stay and will continue to inspire many people!
Examples of California Interior Design Style
One of the easiest ways to define California interior design is that it combines a seasoned coastal vibe with a big dose of hipster chic. However, with a limitless number of style options and furniture choices, it is easy for a homeowner to get lost when trying to carry out this interior design style.
Luckily, you can use the real-world examples below as an inspiration to create the California-styled home of your dreams!
California-styled Living Room
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If you are of the opinion white living room themes are only for ultra-modern homes, you may be mistaken. This adaptable tone is one of the most popular living room colors for California-style interiors, and it's easy to understand why.
Take a look at the living room above to see how raw materials like white stones and natural wooden parts, combined with linens and velvets, can provide interest and layers. Also, it demonstrates the importance of natural textures and materials when designing with a white color palette.
California-styled Bedroom
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White gives Californian home bedroom ideas a fresh, clean appeal. Even if you asked your parents to let you paint your bedroom neon pink as a teenager, you must admit that a white sleeping space can be very peaceful and grounding.
The bedroom above is ideal if you want to keep your design simple and minimalist but with a beachy vibe. A few earth-toned throw cushions or a nature-patterned area rug will assist to break up the white without overwhelming the space.
California-styled Bathroom
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White bathrooms do not have to be monotonous. Get it right and you can bring elegance, excitement, and timelessness to your white bathroom!
This luxurious-looking Californian bathroom, for example, makes taking a shower feel even more special. White wall tile and a marble countertop provide all the interest this bathroom requires to be stylish.
Brass hardware contributes to the room's modern appearance. A huge mirror and natural-toned cabinetry also help to create the distinctive look of the space.
California-styled Kitchen
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California-style kitchens are the perfect design choice for modern elegance in your cooking space since they are light, bright, and trendy. And, if you want to make your kitchen look both comfortable and modern, choosing the proper cabinets for your area is essential.
Bold cabinetry and natural floorings typically work well together, as shown in the kitchen above. The cabinet's deep dark wood contrasts nicely with the lightness of the walls. The tableware's understated ivory tones give modest splashes of color that further enhance the space.
California-styled Patio
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A nice patio does not require a large backyard. With proper planning and arrangement, even a modest space may be transformed into an open-air hideaway. Even better, you may use existing plants and trees as focal points.
This peaceful patio on the backside of a hacienda, for example, has plenty of sitting above worn terracotta tones that blend in with the natural surroundings. It would be easy to encourage gathering and conversation in these lush surroundings with an outside area like this.
Takeaway
Californians have a reputation for their laid-back personality, which is reflected in this design style. But you don't have to be someone from California to appreciate the design and use it on your property!
There’s an explanation for why California style is adored by even those who live far from the coastline! This design is a mash-up of seaside, bohemian, and mid-century elements, with a hint of California cool.
Neutral tones with flashes of soft color through accent items are popular color combinations. Essentially, you can show your particular taste with California-style design by integrating numerous concepts.
