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California Home Enlivened By Vintage, Custom-Made Pieces

August 24, 2016

A couple in Santa Monica, Calif., wanted a comfortable, contemporary home with enough space for parents and kids both. Drawing on a mix of vintage collectibles and custom-made pieces, the Brown Design Group delivered a colorful and calming interior well-suited for each family member. 

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Living Room With Built-In Bookshelves

In this comfortable living room, an entertainment center comprised of built-in shelves draws the eye from floor to ceiling. A mix of books, metal statues and vintage finds adds color and energy to the setting. 

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Whimsical Light Fixture

Affectionately referred to as the "Daddy Long Legs" of the home, this custom-made light fixture not only illuminates the living room, but also adds an unexpected, whimsical touch to the setting. 

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Black and Gold Console Table

A collection of white frames featuring colorful, antique cars decorates this wainscoted wall in the living room. Below, a black and gold console table is just the right height to easily reach books and water the orchid. 

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Collection of Books, Vintage Accents

A closer look at this collected corner reveals another display of books and vintage accents. Against the wall, an elegant tortoise-shell light fixture glitters and adds texture to the design. 

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Contemporary Kitchen With Gray Cabinets

To make a small kitchen feel more grand, the designer introduced a custom front-work pattern to the cabinets. Where the design adds energy to the space, the whisper gray color keeps the look soft and subtle. 

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Marble Tile Backsplash

Subway tile with a soft, marble design brings movement to the kitchen's white walls. Overhead, open shelves streamline the process of cleaning up and organizing plates and cups after dinner. 

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Breakfast Nook With Birdcage Light Fixture

Just off the kitchen, a built-in buffet and two wooden chairs create a cozy breakfast nook where the family can gather. A vintage birdcage-style light fixture hangs overhead, accentuating the room's height. 

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Hanging Chalkboards

On the other side of the room, two hanging chalkboards wait at the ready to keep track of meals, errands and busy schedules.

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Family Dining Area

The kitchen's open design creates a gentle flow into the dining room, where tall windows makes the space feel airy and bright. A dining set in dark colors contrasts nicely with the white walls and accents. 

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Architecture Print and Candelabra

Wrought iron links together to form this delicate, hanging candelabra consisting of four faux-candle sticks. To the left, an architectural image adds height to the space. 

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Contemporary-Chic Dining Room

Contemporary with midcentury modern falir, the dining room is a chic and timeless space where the whole family can gather. An area rug below not only softens the hardwood floors, but also separates this space from the living room. 

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Tulip Table With Brown Leather Chairs

Brown leather armchairs line the sides of the tulip dining table, with two wingback chairs at each end. Fresh, white flowers and a wooden fruit bowl center the table.

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Glass Hexagonal Chandelier

Above the dining table, a glass chandelier with a hexagon design becomes a stunning focal point. The geometric pattern helps bring symmetry and balance to the setting. 

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Hallway With Black and Gold Cabinet

Turning off the living room leads into a small hallway, where a vintage cabinet offers additional storage. Its gold and black hues complement the gilded accents above, while a large terrarium finishes the fresh design.

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Soothing Master Suite

Soothing neutrals and soft fabrics flow throughout this master suite, creating an environment that's relaxed and inviting. Black and white artwork in gilded frames both complements the room's black trim and achieves a subtle sense of luxury. 

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Midcentury Modern Nightstand

To the left of the bed, a midcentury modern nightstand with gilded accents further highlights the room's sophisticated style. A chevron lampshade adds a contemporary touch, for balance. 

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Streamlined Storage

Storage is plentiful in this master bedroom, with a wall of cabinets and bookshelves to showcase all of the family's personal treasures. A vintage chair with a leather cushion brings character to the streamlined setting. 

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Master Bath With Soaking Tub

Clean white surfaces and marble tile sparkle in this contemporary master bathroom. A large soaking tub with curved edges naturally balances the sharp angles of the shower stall and vanity. 

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Dreamy Girls Bedroom

Plush twin beds with matching white linens make this girls room feel dreamy and darling. To give each of the client's daughters their own space, the designer separated their beds with a dresser, as well as provided storage underneath. 

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Playroom-Style Corner

This corner of the room is a perfect place for kids to learn, read and create. A kid-sized table and two cushioned chairs give the girls their own spot to draw, read or have tea-parties. 

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Private Study With Expansive Shelves

A writer by trade, the client needed a quiet space that would encourage productivity. Thus, this private study is kept simple and streamlined, with a contemporary desk and comfortable chair for working. Expansive bookshelves showcase his collection of novels.

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Writing Desk With a View

A sleek black desk with four drawers below becomes an ideal workspace for the author. Just beyond, a window fills the room with natural light and gives the writer a soothing view.