Stepping it up is usually easier than stepping back. Interior designer Tancred Vilucchi experienced this personally with this project in Mar Vista, a family-friendly neighbourhood in California. His familiar style full of lush eclecticism had to be tempered a little until the clients were on the right wavelength with it. A matter of give and take, but with a chic outcome that still concretises the relaxed vibe of the West Coast.
Coincidentally, Tancred Vilucchi had just finished a commission in which he fully went for a maximalist interior design concept and took a creative approach to dimensions and proportions. For this home, the guidelines were slightly different. A family of four asked for a design that brought together California's typical relaxed lifestyle with refined sobriety. Yet the designer obviously had to be able to incorporate his own vision as well; a challenging exercise, in other words. Precisely because of that difficulty, he decided to grab the project with both hands. 
Spread over two levels, he provided an open floor plan for the communal areas, five bedrooms, and six bathrooms. Large sliding doors lead through to the back garden, complete with a cosy fireplace to sit around. Upstairs, room was also made for an office space for the lady of the house. Inspiration, moreover, can be gleaned with heaps all around. The beautiful landscape counts both hills and mountains and fosters an intimate connection between outside and inside. Upon entering the abode, those qualities had to be palpable, as well as the comfort and functionality the clients craved. Inviting and an easily digestible bohemian atmosphere, those two terms cover the load perfectly. 
Zellige, a type of mosaic originating from Morocco, and colourful carpets represent a slightly eclectic dimension
Organic textures and earthy colours are not always the most obvious choices in Vilucchi's portfolio, but this time he knew perfectly what to do with them. True to the region, he selected mostly natural tones, which is also enhanced by the extensive presence of wood. Hints of yellow and black accents make the rooms interesting on multiple levels. In terms of materials, metal, glass and concrete joined the primary range. Zellige, a type of mosaic originating from Morocco, and colourful carpets represent a slightly eclectic dimension. Some exotic plant species recall the importance of the outdoor areas, while carefully selected textiles ensure that the house does not lose its cuddliness. All the elements together leave no doubt that the design is an ode to California and all its associated features. 
Tancred Vilucchi designed an interior in which he lowered his familiar expression by a few pitches, but that does not mean he deviated from his style. In this home, he focused on the warmth of family life and the relaxation they hoped to come home to. A successful commission, as the images speak volumes.
Photography by Pablo Enriquez
Interior design by Maison Vilucchi
Text by Cara Jacobs