When I was approached to design a second model for the Andalusia custom home project in La Quinta, California, I wanted to do something distinctly different from the first - I set out to create a serene environment that would merge the rustic beauty of the desert and the peaceful serenity of the coast. With the community being situated at the base of the breathtaking Santa Rosa Mountains but only a few hours' drive from the relaxing beaches of Southern California it seemed the perfect way to showcase the home's unique quality of easy modern living. Having owned homes in both Palm Springs and Newport Beach myself, I felt if anyone could seamlessly bring together the best that these two worlds have to offer, it was me.

Because of the abundance of windows throughout the space and the panel of disappearing glass that unified the living and dining areas with the adjacent patio, the home seemed to always be awash in natural light giving it a warm and inviting feel. I wanted to play this up by sticking to a very fresh but muted color palette. Combining soft blue tones with a base of creamy neutrals and whites, my team and I transformed the interior into a place that feels cool and refreshing despite the blazing temperatures outside. My strategy for achieving a cohesive desert/beach look was to generate a blend of visual texture and striking patterns. We did this by incorporating pieces that have both a traditional and current feel: a striped rug mixes with floral throw pillows and animal prints while contemporary art is paired with furniture in more transitional silhouettes. The outcome was a home that, according to the sales manager, anyone who came through to tour it would exclaim: Oh, I could live here!