Contemporary home with inviting Spanish influences in California

By One Kindesign July 22, 2016

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The design for Aire Libre residence in Coronado, California was inspired by a homeowner’s affinity for outdoor living, the imagination of Christian Rice Architects. Since southern California is mild all year round, the environment is perfectly suited to an indoor/outdoor living experience. The homeowners desired a contemporary design with traditional spanish architecture. The architects worked with this idea, mixing the two elements together with plenty of open spaces, windows and natural light. An entry courtyard immediately surrounds you with lush vegetation, where the interplay of gardens and living spaces continues throughout the home.

According to the architects: “Extensive pocketing glass doors provide a direct connection to the outdoor areas, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor space. A large roof connects the guest house to the main home, thereby creating an ideal location for a covered outdoor living environment. A linear pool and spa accentuate the outdoor living area and pass underneath the roof cover above.”

The front entryway was designed special by the architect, mahogany double doors carved in high relief, reminiscent of a colonial hacienda. Through the doors, the indoor-outdoor connection is revealed. You think you are entering into the home, but really it is the courtyard garden. A pathway leads you to the main house, with glass doors on both sides of the great room. From there, you can see right through to an extensive well-manicured lawn and pool area.

To help create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, the architect kept the color and material palette consistent. On the lower level, the flooring is comprised of Turkish white marble. Outdoors, a similar material was used, creme marfil marble with a rustic sandblasted finish. The consistency of the texture is is more rough, selected for slip resistance since it is abutted to the pool. The fireplaces—both indoors and out—feature Jerusalem limestone. Portions of the residence are clad in natural limestone, which includes a balcony positioned over a three-car garage, as well as the entry courtyard. Additionally, there is the glass element, which has been used extensively.

What We Love: The spaces in this California home features an organic, contemporary feel with natural materials brought in from the outdoors, such as stone and wood. This is a unique home with a playful interplay with the architecture. The seamless connection between indoors and out is beautifully accomplished throughout.

Readers, what do you think, does this home appeal to your senses?

In the kitchen, stained white oak was used in the cabinetry, while the dual island countertops feature Calcutta gold marble. The homeowners enjoy hosting cooking parties, so the need for high-end appliances and extra countertop space was a must.