Bridging the Natural and the Urban: The Essence of West Coast Style Through a San Francisco Lens

Interior design isn’t just decoration; it’s about intricately stitching the unique stories of those who inhabit a space, mirroring their personal expressions and life tales within every corner. Join me on this journey as we dive into West Coast interior design as seen through the lens of my experiences. From the historical architecture that whispers tales of the past to the modern innovations shaping our future, every space tells a story.

Understanding West Coast Style

What Defines This Captivating ‘West Coast’ Style?

The 'West Coast' style, as I see it, is a reflection of our unique blend of historical charm and a keen embrace of the future. It's about creating spaces that feel open and airy, inviting the outside in, and making natural light a cornerstone of every design. Imagine stepping into a room where the lines between indoors and outdoors blur, where the light dances off the surfaces, and the air feels fresh and invigorating. This is the essence of what I strive to create.

Open, airy layouts.

Although city living often calls for compact spaces, West Coast design favors open, airy layouts. Simplicity, minimalist elements, and thoughtfully selected furniture are key components that breathe an air of spaciousness into each room, creating an atmosphere that feels both expansive and inviting.

Blurring the Lines Between Indoor & Outdoor Living

Each project I undertake is a new chapter in a story waiting to be told. For instance, our Tiburon Views Remodel wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about capturing the soul of the surrounding landscape and reflecting it back through the use of color, material, and light. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding nature, we incorporated softer, cooler tones, mirroring the water and greenery that abound, beautifully intertwining the space with its stunning surroundings.

**San Francisco Modern Victorian Project**

Harnessing the Power of Natural Light

Natural light is a quintessential element of West Coast interior design. Beyond enhancing mood and mental well-being, it has a magical way of making rooms appear more spacious and welcoming. In San Francisco, where history meets modern elegance, the interplay between Victorian architecture and contemporary furnishings creates a breathtaking juxtaposition. Highlighting the intricate craftsmanship of older homes with ample natural light ensures their hidden beauty shines through.

Victorian & Modern Elements Existing in Tandem

San Francisco’s rich history often shows through its interior design. Modern homes are frequently adorned with Victorian bay windows, ornate moldings, and original brickwork that is preserved and highlighted as an enduring element of beauty.

These historical elements often blend with sleek, modern furnishings and color schemes to create a striking and unique juxtaposition.

For example, Our rich-in-history San Francisco Page Street Victorian project was a delicate dance between honoring its rich history and infusing it with modern life, taking Victorian elements and marrying them with modern touches, featuring original restored details such as light fixtures, plaster medallions, and a dramatic newel post.

Natural light can be especially beneficial in older homes as it highlights the intrinsically beautiful craftsmanship that can be overlooked with typical indoor lighting. Place those lovely details in full view.

Sustainability Woven Into Design

In every design, I weave a thread of sustainability, aiming to incorporate eco-friendly materials like Belgian linen, reclaimed wood, and recycled elements into our designs wherever possible. Take, for instance, our Palo Alto Craftsman project. By strategically using reclaimed white oak flooring and beams from structures built in the early 1800s, we infused the space with both depth and character, simultaneously weaving a narrative of preservation and homage to our collective history.

Cultural Diversity in Design

San Francisco's diversity is its strength, a vibrant palette from which we draw inspiration. In our designs, every era, from Italianate to Queen Anne, is a homage to the city's rich cultural tapestry. This diversity fuels my creativity, pushing me to explore and integrate a myriad of influences into spaces that are not just beautiful but also deeply meaningful.

Innovation and Personalization

Urban living presents unique challenges, such as limited space and multifunctionality. We must embrace innovative solutions that harmoniously blend form and function in tackling these challenges. But even with limited space, we believe your home should reflect you.

Like at our Claremont Canyon Overlook project where we created a space that seamlessly blends adult elegance with family functionality. From integrating a piano, reflecting a family's musical interests, to the bespoke reading nook, every element is thoughtfully curated to ensure personalization takes center stage.

Harmony with Nature

In our hustle-bustle world, connecting with nature is more important than ever. Through my designs, I strive to bring the calming beauty of the natural world indoors, using materials that not only speak of the earth's generosity but also promote a sense of peace and well-being. Wood, stone, and natural fibers create interiors that exude tranquility, evoking a deep connection to nature that is both restorative and inspiring.

One of our favorite examples of this is our Historic Oakland Refresh. For this project, we focused on bringing this beautiful historic home into the modern era while maintaining the craftsman principle of building a strong connection to nature. We can see this through the subtle wood-veneered wallpapers on the coffered dining room ceiling, which not only brings a natural element into the room but also gently reflects light, allowing the room to feel brighter and more welcoming. In addition to this, we would be remiss, not to mention the thick live edge slab coffee table in the living room that seems to almost suspend above the ground as it sits atop a lucite stand.

Trendsetting and Timeless Elegance

In a world chasing trends, I aim to set them. My designs are a fusion of the timeless and the innovative, creating spaces that stand the test of time while reflecting the unique spirit of our West Coast lifestyle.

Our projects combine elements from multiple design styles in bold yet harmonious ways to support form and function. By making choices that transcend the whims of fashion, we ensure that your home remains relevant and elegant for years to come.

Through my unique perspective, inspired by the spirit of San Francisco, we have embarked on a journey into the soul of West Coast interior design. It is a world where sustainability, diversity, and innovation are not just principles but ways of life. San Francisco's rich history has woven a vibrant tapestry of inspiration, allowing us to craft spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply connected to the natural world, the community, and the stories of our clients.

Curious to see more of our transformative projects?

Embark on a visual journey through the world of Lane McNab Interiors and discover more of our designs on our socials:

Ready to infuse your space with that unbeatable West Coast magic and make it your own? Let's embark on a collaborative journey, one inspired design at a time.

Terri BriggsMarch 7, 2024