The Sea Cliff Coastal Manor
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this property offered stunning views but faced the challenge of San Francisco relentless fog and cool grey light. The clients wanted an interior that felt warm and enveloping to potential the often gloomy weather outside. They requested a California Coastal look that was sophisticated, not kitschy, no seashells or nautical stripes. The focus was on framing the views while creating a cozy interior retreat that felt warm even when the fog rolled in.
Our design strategy focused on texture and thermal visual comfort. We layered the space with chunky wool rugs, shearling accent chairs, and heavy linen drapes that could block drafts without hiding the view. We detailed a custom limestone fireplace as the focal point of the living room to anchor the space. The color palette was drawn from the landscape, sandy beiges, soft greys, and muted blues, but in warmer undertones to counteract the cool blue light entering from the ocean. The result is a sanctuary that embraces its dramatic location while providing a warm shelter from the elements.
Client Name
Sarah & James O'Connell
Client Type
Private Homeowner
Location
Private Homeowner
Project focus
Sea Cliff, San Francisco
Color Palette
Sand, Warm Grey, Driftwood, Muted Teal
Services Provided
Full-Service Interior Design, Custom Furniture Design
Budget
$200,00
Duration
5 Months
Thoughtfully designed spaces for life
Strategic Design Interventions
We use spatial engineering to unlock hidden value in small footprints.
1
Counteracting the Grey Gloom
The home receives cool, blue-tinted light due to the ocean and fog. We countered this by strictly specifying paint colors with warm undertones and detailing 2700K temperature LED lighting. This ensures the home feels inviting and golden even on the grayest July afternoon.
Texture Over Color
To create interest without distracting from the view, we focused on tactile variance rather than bright colors. We selected bouclé fabrics, raw limestone, and wire-brushed oak flooring to add depth and richness to the neutral palette.
2
3
Framing the Pacific
The view is the art. We designed the furniture layout to orient specifically toward the ocean windows. We specified low-profile furniture to ensure that sightlines to the horizon remained unobstructed from every angle of the room, including the kitchen.