AIA SB Merit Award

Designed to a 'flip-flop formal' aesthetic, the materials and finishes in this beach house's new interior are distinctly elegant but possess a practical ease for daily use and casual entertaining in Southern California's endless summers.

Floor planks throughout are intentionally lower grade, higher grain, prominently knotted, and subtly grooved - a not-so-precious surface that welcomes beach sand and bare feet. Additionally, the house is drywall free: made entirely from boards in finishes that wear in rather than out, the nicks and scratches from vacations with family and friends will only add to the home’s character.

The open plan kitchen is also designed for hosting, with an integrated butler pantry wing that is out of sight from the main social space.

Overall details and proportions are playful and petite in scale, reminiscent of original California beach bungalows with their spirit of modesty and impermanence. Integrated cabinetry and furniture - including an incredibly cozy sleeping nook - help keep the spaces calm and uncluttered and reflect a ship-builder’s mindset. Canine-height Dutch doors, chair rail height windowsills, large push-out awning windows, and eclectic and varied light sources all help the house feel made ‘on purpose’ and bespoke.