Design Trend: California Cool.
What is California Cool design style?
Californian Cool design style embodies a sense of escapism, capturing the essence of relaxed and carefree California living. Whilst influences are derived from the Californian coastlines, the aesthetic is more layered and curated than traditional Coastal design. It draws inspiration from four styles including the rustic and eclectic tones of Bohemian, the organic and contemporary qualities of Coastal, the muted and airy aesthetic of Scandinavian and the vintage characteristics of Mid-Century Modern.
Image Source: dmarInteriors.com
Image Owner: Dmar Interiors
Key Characteristics of Californian Cool Interiors:
Warm, neutral colour palettes
Californian Cool colour palettes are considered soft and neutral and sun washed. Warm whites and creamy beiges often dominate the room as a primary colour through walls, ceilings and large furniture items. These are then complemented with muted greens, soft blues, gentle greys and earthy browns introduced through artwork, textiles and natural materials. Such combination of warm and cool hues represents the Californian landscapes of the ocean, sand, sky and timbers, reinforcing a strong connection to nature and creating a calm, relaxing atmosphere. It also allows for pops of colour to be easily added with curated pieces over time to enhance visual interest.
Image Source: sofreshandsochic.com
Image Owner: A Cup of Life.
Strong connection between the indoors and outdoors with abundance of natural light
Emphasis in Californian Cool interiors is placed on connection to the outdoors and nature to bring about a relaxing, breathable and grounding feeling. This is achieved through large scale windows, sliding glass doors, skylights, sheer curtains and minimal window treatments, creating a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors and allow natural light to flood the space. Incorporation of organic materials as well as biophilic design both indoors and outdoors strengthens the visual continuity between the two environments and makes the space feel expansive.
Image Source: coatshomes.com
Image Owner: Coats Homes
Emphasis on abundance and layering of textures
Restrained colour palettes mean texture is heavily emphasised in Californian Cool interiors. Variety and layering of textures is prominent with raw and organic materials including oak, reclaimed wood, leather, ceramics, wool, rattan and linen. These materials introduce depth, tactile richness and warmth without adding clutter or overwhelming the space.
Image Source: stylebyemilyhenderson.com
Image Owner: Emily Henderson
Balanced shapes and clean lines
Soft, curved and organic shapes and lines prominently feature such as rounded furniture, baskets, plant pots and light pendants to soften the space and create a relaxed atmosphere. These are reinforced with rectilinear shapes and simple, clean lines predominantly seen in main furniture items like low profile sofas and bedframes, wall art and architectural structures such as large-scale windows, skylights, ceiling beams, walls and flooring. This balance between both curved and straight lines reinforces stability and balance within the interior.
Image Source: livingetc.com
Image Owner: Lauren Pressey
Curated, collected personality with a blend of modern and vintage piece
California Cool interiors are not without character and personality despite its emphasis on neutral colour palettes, natural materials, clean lines and emphasis on negative space. Vintage furniture collected furniture items and statement pieces are often collected over time and introduce character and individuality. The blend between such vintage items with modern elements creates a timeless aesthetic that feels lived in and authentic.
Image Source: ashleylaurendesignstudio.com
Image Owner: Ashley Lauren
Ultimately, Californian Cool design works because it prioritises feeling as much as functionality. The openness, abundance of natural light, neutral colour palette, connection to nature and blend of modern and vintage elements work together to create a relaxed, clutter free atmosphere that does not sacrifice warmth or functionality. It is the perfect design style to incorporate into a family home for those seeking calm, inviting spaces that remain practical and enduring.