The LA Home We've Been Dreaming of Non-Stop

Rip & Tan: How would you describe your design ethos as a duo? As you’ve worked together, have your individual philosophies evolved over the years? 

Studio LIFE/STYLE: We pride ourselves on creating environments that balance functionality, warmth, and comfort. Because we have different design directions and perspectives, we typically figure out a way to blend our views in a symbiotic way.

We both bring different things to the table, allowing us to constantly push and trust each other.

Our individual philosophies have evolved as we’ve gained more experience in design, traveled to new places, and met new people in the industry. We’ve been able to reinvent and build value in the spaces we collaborate on together.

Rip & Tan: From mood board to finished space, what were some of the highlights of conceptualizing and creating this particular interior?

Studio LIFE/STYLE: This project was a true collaboration with our clients who had a strong design point of view. 

Their request was to create an approachable, family-friendly, yet beautiful and elevated home.  We executed this vision by using a mix of sophisticated materials, creating a neutral/soothing palette that feels luxurious, and sprinkled in pops of color and pattern…which we think brings the spaces to life. 

Rip & Tan: With any interior project, where do you prefer to begin? How do you know when a space is truly complete? 

Studio LIFE/STYLE: We like to tell a full story. When in the conceptual phase, we aim to learn our clients’ preferences, habits, rituals, and how they are really going to live in their homes.

A major key factor in designing is learning the functionality of the space and layering design aesthetics that meets our clients’ vision and everyday living. 

Rip & Tan: How would you define the identity of this home? Are there any design choices or particular pieces of décor that stand out to you as most significant or inherent to the overall project?

Studio LIFE/STYLE: This home is definitely a family home. It was important for the clients to have designated spaces for their children. However, it was crucial to have areas for entertaining as well. The house has a sense of ease that marries the sophisticated entertainment spaces with the more casual family rooms.

The kitchen is the heartbeat of the home. For a family that cooks often and gathers here daily, we wanted to design a spacious and functional kitchen that still felt warm and intimate.

Rip & Tan: Any tips on incorporating pops of color in a way that feels intentional and balanced? 

Studio LIFE/STYLE: The most important thing is working with rich and deeply saturated colors. We highly suggest sampling colors in a space as lighting can make a world’s difference. We like to select colors that feel timeless too.

Rip & Tan: This home features a few moodier corners in contrast to generally brighter, more neutral rooms. What advice do you have for those with similarly mixed aesthetics?

Studio LIFE/STYLE: Utilize separation of spaces. Each room can have its unique identity as long as it feels cohesive with the rest of the home.

We like to design public spaces in a home with a more neutral palette but design a bit more boldly for those smaller spaces like a library, den, or powder room. We typically incorporate more color, a bold wallpaper, and other unique details to add an element of playfulness to these spaces.

Rip & Tan: What are some go-to design elements that come to mind when you think of livable luxury? 

Studio LIFE/STYLE: We love mixing textures, materials, patterns, and wood finishes. Creating a high and low balance of tonality for each room within a project. We like to be thoughtful when space planning so that each room can be as functional as it is unique.

We try to include special and unexpected moments through lighting, sculptural pieces, and artwork.  We believe there should be a harmonious relationship between the architecture of the home and the selected furniture to create a sense of livable luxury. 

Rip & Tan: What does living well mean to you?

Studio LIFE/STYLE: Living comfortably in your space…your home should feel inspiring yet comfortable. We love integrating pieces that feel meaningful and soulful. We strive to incorporate pieces that not only speak to us but to the clients as well.