Reader Design: Kristin's Cali Cool Home

I don't know about you, but I am SO ready for Spring. I know I'm a couple weeks past Groundhog Day, but boy do I wish the outcome had been different. I need to trade in my huge parka for a light jacket, my boots for some sandals, and I long for the day when I don't need to add bronzer to look healthy. All I can say is thank goodness I now see the light when I leave my good ole day job. 

That light and hint of summer are two of the reasons for my envy of Kristin's Venice Beach, CA home. 

Kristin's family home is mid-century, bohemian, bright, and kid-friendly. It's everything that is right with California style! And that style is the result of some pretty great influences.

One of those? Kristin's mom and her partner.  

They travel to craft fairs and galleries and very carefully hand pick art and pottery. They both have an excellent eye and have taught me the importance of collecting special pieces (furniture, too) over time.

Another? The physical surroundings in which she's chosen to raise her family. 

Venice has gorgeous diverse architecture. It is so inspiring! I love the modern beachy bohemian design trending here and it has definitely influenced my style.
 
 

It still takes a heckuva internal compass to get the blending of all those influences right. And for Kristin, that compass is her family. Above all, her space feels like it's made for a family. For movie nights, games, making a mess - all without, as Kristin says, "freaking out."

And with a family, everything has to be built to last.

I love picking furniture that is simple, modern and classic made to last for a very long time. The grey couch in our family room, for example, is a couch I’ve had for 15 years! And then, as trends come and go, I can keep up with them with accessories. Accessories can be sourced for so much cheaper! For example, my bohemian basket wall in my dining room cost $30 total because I found the baskets at antique and thrift stores.

Some of those trends that Kristin just nails are her bright white kitchen (Kristin would like to thank her friend Hannah, @repeatworld, for her valuable input), which is the perfect clean and beautiful family gathering place; the indigo and mudcloth pillows, lovingly placed both for their cuddling abilities and for impromptu photo ops; and the graffiti art that pays homage to none other than Venice Beach itself. 

Kristin, your home represents everything we love about style mutts. It's functional, fun, and most importantly, a reflection of you. Thanks for showing us around! Follow Kristin along on Instagram @ksdion

See you next week, mutts!