Welcome to Reveries - our new blog, newsletter, stream of consciousness, whatever you want to call it, for all things interiors.  In this inaugural issue, we dive deep into the core elements of California Casual design. Many of you followed along the 4-week journey of breaking down the California Casual look on Sunday Styles (see Instagram Highlights if you missed it!) and I thought a recap of this was a perfect way to kick off the first volume of Reveries.

So here we are!  Let’s explore the four pillars plus a few bonus tricks to nailing the California Casual look.  This is a bit of a lengthy one but I promise it’s worth the read and probably even worth revisiting from time to time!

1. Embrace the Power of Neutral Tones

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go, but one timeless choice continues to stand the test of time – the neutral palette. Typically when one thinks of neutral tones they will include shades of beige, ivory, taupe, grey, and soft pastels but lately we’ve also been seeing more saturated earthy hues like olive, indigo, saffron and shades of brown being used in the same manner. These colours create a sense of calm and serenity, making a space feel cozy and inviting. Neutral colours serve as a perfect backdrop, allowing other elements in the room to shine – be it a piece of artwork, a vintage rug, or a statement piece of furniture.

Source: Jenni Kayne

2. Incorporate Natural Materials 

The use of natural materials is core to getting the California Casual look.  Unlike trendy, mass-produced items, designs crafted from natural materials possess a timeless elegance that never goes out of style. They age gracefully, telling a story of years gone by and lend character to the spaces they inhabit.  Experiment with a mix of materials such as wood, leather, metal, and natural fibres. A rustic wooden coffee table paired with a plush linen sofa or a jute rug under a sleek dining table adds depth and character to your space.

Source: Jill Egan Interiors

3. Layer Textures & Textiles

Whenever I think of layering textiles, I think of Amber Lewis of Amber Interiors - she nails this process every single time.  And make no mistake, it is a process and one that involves lots of experimenting.  We layer textiles to create depth, visual interest, and a sense of coziness in a space. Moreover, by combining different fabrics, patterns, and textures, you can add warmth and personality to your home. 

Begin with a neutral colour palette for your larger upholstered pieces and walls. Next layer in your decorative cushions and throws focusing on a variety of textures, such as smooth cottons, plush velvets, handwoven hemps, chunky wools and nubby linens.  Mix different patterns but ensure there’s a unifying element like a common colour or theme. For instance, you might have striped cushions that echo the colours in a floral print curtain. Balance busier patterns with simpler, solid-coloured items to avoid overwhelming the space. 

Source: Amber Interiors

Also consider the textures on your floors and window treatments.  For instance, try layering a smaller, patterned rug on top of a larger, neutral one. This creates visual interest and can define different areas within an open space (it also means you can splurge on a smaller vintage rug while saving on the larger jute one!).  For windows, we love the added interest of mixing wovenwood romans with linen drapes (but also know this gets exy so get creative with what you can afford and think about more economical options like a linen-like fabric in ready made drapes).

Remember, the key is to strike a balance. You don’t want so many layers that the space feels cluttered, but enough to provide visual interest and comfort. Feel free to mix and match, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find a combination that suits your style and preference.

4.  Feature Vintage Decor and Statement Pieces

Aha, our favourite pillar!  We always strive to create a room punctuated with statement pieces that capture attention and tell a story. These pieces not only serve as focal points but also reflect your individuality and taste.  For high traffic areas like your entry and living room, invest in unique, eye-catching items like a vintage Persian rug, an ornate mirror, or heirloom antique furniture.  These are the items that will set the tone for the space and trust me, will get all the oohs, and ahhs from visitors.  For every other space (think shelves, console and coffee tables, etc.) look for smaller, unique vintage items that speak to you -  handmade pottery, woven baskets, hand-painted ceramics and vintage textiles. These items not only showcase your individual tastes, they also lend a sense of authenticity to your décor.

Source: Pure Salt Interiors

What else? A couple more tips to getting the California Casual look: 

Emphasise Natural Light

Natural light is the secret weapon to any well thought out space. Maximise the flow of natural light into your home by using window treatments that are fully retractable (aka no fixed shutters!). Natural light not only brightens up the space but also enhances the overall ambiance, making it feel inviting and airy.

Add Greenery and Life

Bringing the outdoors in is a cornerstone of the California Casual design philosophy. Incorporate indoor plants and flowers to infuse life and vitality into your rooms. Consider placing potted plants in strategic corners or opting for a large, statement plant as a focal point. Not only do they add visual appeal, but they also purify the air and promote a sense of well-being.

Source: Pinterest

If you made it this far, congratulations, you have officially graduated from California Casual 101!  We're so excited you're here as we utilise this platform to explore and share the topics that matter most to this community.  Until next time!