Designer Digs: Chris Barrett's Bright LA Home Makes the Most of the Space

Designer Digs is a series featuring the living spaces of our favorite interior designers and home decor influencers, where they give us the full lowdown on how they live. It’s all the things we love about browsing virtual real estate listings, with the added benefit of hearing exactly what it is that makes these dream homes so special.

Owner

California-based Interior Designer (and A-list celeb favorite) Chris Barrett of Chris Barrett Design.

Chris describes her design aesthetic as "fresh, understated elegance," inspired by the beauty of California. She loves to play with natural Mediterranean light, spaces that morph easily between indoor and outdoor living, and "refined palettes electrified by the occasional jolt of strong color."

“I don’t do heavy” is her design mantra.

Location

Del Rey, Los Angeles, CA

“I fell in love as soon as I walked in the door. It could have been located anywhere and I would have wanted it. Turns out I love the area!”

Size of the Property

At 1,200 square feet, the space is perfectly sized for one. “I live alone, so it’s fine for me.”

Attached to the house is a lanai that’s enclosed on three sides, creating extra living space. It's been artfully decorated in bright colors, with furniture made for fun and comfort. “It’s perfect for reading in any weather.”

Style

The home is mid-century modern, with warm, wooden accents and a bright and open feel. This is thanks, in part, to the high ceilings and large windows throughout.

“It’s very comfortable, open and easy! The architecture is everything. When you sit in the living room you feel as though you are outside.”

Outside Space

When it came to landscaping, Chris worked with a local team from LA-based Modern Floristry. "I chose topiary balls, large and small, to use. [They] took my vision and ran with it."

Natural Stone Elements in the Bathroom

A wall of Silver Travertine lines the sink wall in the bathroom. “My favorite feature. So beautiful.”

Kitchen Design Makes the Most of the Space

The small kitchen is purposefully built for maximum efficiency, and no space is left unused or unusable. “Purcell Murray really came through for me with the appliances. I love them all!”

The kitchen also features open shelving, ideal for "easy access and art display.”

Beautiful Oak Flooring

The home features original oak floors throughout. “If I were to put in new floors, I may have chosen something different. Still oak, but not so smooth.”

"I would have chosen an oak that was a little bit more grayed down in color. That said, the floors lend a beautiful warmth to the space," said Chris.

Large Windows Connect With the Outdoor Space

The living room and dining area feature a wall of floor-to-ceiling, aluminum sliding windows that are integral to the open-air look. Being in the room feels like "bringing the outdoors in."

“The wall of glass is what sold me on this house.”

Multi-Purpose Rooms

For now, the small space is designed so that each area serves a purpose.

When she first moved in, Chris considered converting the garage into a full office, complete with a kitchenette and bathroom. "In the end, I didn’t want to give up a place for the car.“

"I’ve carved out an office in the dining area," she explained.

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