In Menlo Park, California, this home designed by Backen & Backen Architecture effortlessly marries modern design with inviting furnishings, emanating a refreshing and welcoming ambiance. Designed with symmetry as a guiding principle, the home prioritized functionality to suit the needs of its five-member family.

Embracing a love for entertaining and seamless indoor/outdoor living, the family envisioned spacious areas for hosting holiday gatherings, charitable events, and enchanting backyard soirees. To ensure comfort throughout the year, the spaces were equipped with heat lamps and adorned with luxurious mohair drapery.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECTURE Backen & Backen Architecture INTERIOR DESIGN M. Elle Design HOME BUILDER NorthWall Builders LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Denler Hobart Gardens

The conception of this home was a collaborative effort with interiors studio M. Elle Design and NorthWall Builders who were instrumental in this project’s success. The architects, renowned for their grand architectural scale, skillfully integrated vast pocket steel and glass windows, effortlessly blurring the boundaries between the interior and the surrounding outdoors.

The project team curated a tranquil color palette that exudes harmony and complemented it by incorporating warm wood planking throughout the entire interior space. A formal dining room was elegantly adorned with a library, a cozy fireplace, and a grand piano, setting the stage for intimate culinary evenings.

What We Love: This contemporary home offers a California-casual vibe with its seamless indoor-outdoor connection throughout. Comfortable yet sophisticated living spaces provide this home’s inhabitants and their guests with a haven of relaxation. We are especially loving the outdoor living spaces, where there are plenty of areas to entertain and bask in the warm California sun. Whether it’s gathering around the inviting fire pit, enjoying al fresco dining under the stars, or lounging by the sparkling pool, this residence truly celebrates the beauty of outdoor living.

Tell Us: Share your thoughts on the most appealing elements in the design of this home by letting us know in the Comments below!

Note: Take a look at a couple of other amazing home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of California: Tour a warm and welcoming modern farmhouse family home in Menlo Park and California LEED-Platinum home centered on three living pavilions.

Above: The design of the residence was dictated by the presence of a protected heritage oak tree, now gracefully nestled in the courtyard.

PHOTOGRAPHER John Merkl