How to Bring Trendy California-Cool Style to Your Home
We’ve all stared longingly at homes with that lovely, laid-back Cali look. Using lots of fresh greenery, texture, and boho accents, the style easily falls at the top of our decorating bucket lists — even if it’s not always easy to achieve. Luckily, LA-based designer Thomas Bina has an arsenal of info when it comes to nailing this coastal trend. With extensive beachside travel under his belt and his own eco-friendly wood furniture line (featured at retailers like Restoration Hardware and SONDER living), he knows how to deliver true West Coast vibes. Just take his recent bungalow makeover, which serves as the ideal source of inspo for getting the ultimate Californian oasis in your abode. Keep scrolling below to see pics of the finished product and to get all of his expert advice.
Brit + Co: What was your style inspiration for the bungalow renovation? Did you reference anything specific?
Thomas Bina: My inspiration always starts with music. It’s a visceral feeling I get from an amazing song and then it translates visually into a design. The other creative sparks come from nature, architecture, and unusual materials I see when I’m traveling, especially in Brazil and Southeast Asia. This Venice bungalow is a perfect space to showcase my designs and express the classic California aesthetic.
B+C: How can West Coast style influence the home and furniture?
TB: California style to me is effortless with a sophisticated accent. Oversized couches and large dining tables have become synonymous with the LA vibe because of their relaxed feel. California homes like this one offer wide-open rooms with clean white lines — perfect for highlighting my favorite items like reclaimed woods, distressed leathers, and a palette of neutral colors.
B+C: How can we get the look? Any stores or products we should pay attention to?
TB: No matter where you live, you can create a cool California-style oasis on any budget. For me, it’s all about mixing elements. Textural wood furniture like the Cardosa Platform Bed ($2,295), with metal or glass accents, can give a space an organic, laid-back look while still keeping it refined. Another easy and affordable way to achieve this style is to add greenery throughout the home, like with the Scalloped Screen ($249), and photography on the walls. Houseplants like cacti, succulents, and snake plants are great for creating that indoor/outdoor element to any space. Finish off a room with a large photo of surfers, vintage cars, or rock stars, like with the Andrew Martin 1969 Print ($3,297), and the space will always radiate Cali style.
If a nod to year-round warm weather is calling your name, we suggest shopping the designer’s selections for the reno here. (Don’t forget to tag us @BritandCo in your finished product!)
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(Images via Resource Decor)
