(This article was published in European Homes & Garden magazine) When building a home from the ground up, it seems every homeowner has a “vision.” It’s the duty of the architect, builder and interior designer to bring that vision to fruition. In this cozy California home, an old, established look was the goal. “We wanted to hold true to the historical pre-requisites with the architecture while incorporating modern lifestyle in this home,” says Richard Landry, AIA, of Landry Architects. “The homeowners wanted a traditional European ambiance, but the emphasis was always on comfort and the house is a machine that enhances the way they live and entertain,” says Frank Pennino, designer of the space. “There is such a good quality of light in this house. Because it was a new construction, we were able to incorporate large windows for a bright and cheery atmosphere,” says Landry. “This home has the look of an old, established space-with the reversed grand staircase, ceiling details and the scales of the rooms,” says Landry. “But since this was a new home, we were able to fuse the California modern home with these elements.” “The overall design of the house was largely inspired by California artist, Wallace Neff. The homeowner enjoyed his artwork and it was incorporated into the architectural vision of the house,” says Landry. The interior design of the home was carefully molded to mesh with the architectural elements. We were careful to use traditional fabrics and finishes to compliment the architecture of the home,” says Pennino. “Inlaid limestone floors, softly textured walls, and painted decoration reflect Italianate design motifs,” says Pennino. Along with the architecture and interior design, the landscaping of the estate was designed to coordinate and compliment the existing elements of the house. “We created formal Italian gardens with olive and pine trees which work well with the native foliage and added a European flair to the outdoor space,” says Landry. Publications : 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8