12th St – Santa Monica

East Coast | Traditional Inspired

Interior Designer
Chris Barrett Design

Structural Engineer
KNA Engineering

General Contractor
Shawn Nelson Builders

12TH ST – SANTA MONICA

EAST COAST | TRADITIONAL INSPIRED

This Santa Monica residence presents a crisp, contemporary take on the timeless East Coast traditional aesthetic. The architecture balances the structured elegance of classic shingle-style design with a bright, West Coast energy, utilizing a high-contrast exterior of deep-toned siding and brilliant white trim to create a striking, tailored presence on the streetscape.

The design is organized around a sense of discovery and vertical light. Beyond the welcoming traditional entry, the home unfolds into a series of expansive, airy volumes defined by vaulted ceilings and an abundance of glazing. Strategic window placements and French doors ensure that every room is bathed in natural light, maintaining a constant visual link to the lushly landscaped outdoor pockets and private patios that surround the home.

The interior experience moves away from formal rigidity, favoring a sculptural simplicity that highlights craftsmanship and material quality. A palette of soft whites and cool greys is grounded by dark wood flooring and metallic accents, creating a sophisticated backdrop for daily life. Every space—from the light-drenched kitchen to the tranquil bedroom suites—is designed with a focus on spatial clarity and a quiet, high-design luxury that feels both enduring and fresh.

TESTIMONIAL

“We highly recommend this detail orientated and highly skilled architecture firm. They reimagined our tired old 1939 house to a contemporary bungalow in a year. We used their design expertise all the way through the construction process and beyond to help with hardscapes, perimeter custom gates and a pool design.”

Homeowner

Project Highlights

Design Philosophy: A refreshed East Coast traditional approach that prioritizes clean lines and a luminous interior.
Volumetric Contrast: Features soaring double-height ceilings and a dramatic central staircase that acts as a focal architectural element.
Materiality: A sharp interplay of crisp white millwork, dark-stained oak, and textured slate for a refined, classic feel.
Atmosphere: Polished and energetic, offering a sense of order and serenity through balanced proportions and natural light.

FEATURE ARTICLE

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