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What California Interior Design Style Actually Means (And Why It Works in D.C.)
- Jun 1
- 3 min read
Our aesthetic at Lorla Studio leans more California than East Coast, but what does that even mean and how do you know if it’s for you?
We hear that our projects have a ‘California interior design style’ more often than you’d think, and usually before clients can fully explain what they mean by it. It’s not really about geography, it’s about a feeling.
Clients often describe what they want in simpler terms: warm, comfortable, family-friendly, organic, modern (but not cold modern).
They want a home that feels cohesive and welcoming, not overly styled or precious. A place that works for real life, while still feeling intentional, and beautiful.
The California design aesthetic tends to resonate because it translates those instincts into a clear set of values. And when applied right, those values work just as well in a Washington, D.C. colonial as they do on the West Coast. Creating that feeling through design is our speciality!
How do we achieve a ‘California Interior Design Style’?
At its core, this style is a response to homes that feel too formal, too heavy, or too disconnected from everyday life. Think separate formal dining or living rooms that feel untouchable.
It prioritizes lifestyle and functionality over pure aesthetics. Here are some ways we achieve a more welcoming, comfortable design:
Warm materials and tones instead of cold finishes
Bright, natural light instead of heavy or dim spaces
Relaxed layouts that feel easy to navigate
Cohesive spaces instead of rooms that feel visually cluttered
3 Key Elements of California-inspired Design
Organic Materials That Feel Grounded
One of the defining principles of modern California style interior design is a focus on natural, tactile materials. Instead of relying on bold color or heavy decoration, these spaces are built through material depth and variation.
Think:
Limewash and plaster walls
Natural wood with visible grain
Cotton, linen, and soft woven textiles
Warm metals and living finishes that patina over time, like unlacquered brass and polished nickel
Natural stone like marble and travertine
Organic fibers like jute
Typically, this is where a shift happens for clients. Many homes begin as collections of things they like individually, but don’t necessarily relate to one another. By grounding a space in consistent materials and tones, everything starts to feel more intentional, without needing more “stuff” to fill it.
Bringing The Outdoors In
When people think of California style, they often picture large glass doors, open patios, and sun-filled rooms. While Washington, D.C. homes don’t always offer the same architectural conditions, the principle still applies.
In practice, this can look like:
Maximizing natural light through large windows with minimal window treatments
Choosing finishes that reflect natural light
Orienting layouts toward views or greenery where possible
We often apply this thinking into our full-service residential work throughout Washington, D.C., where older architecture benefits from a lighter, more breathable approach.
A Relaxed Approach to Living
Perhaps the most recognizable, but least tangible part of California interior design style is its attitude toward living.
Nothing feels overly staged, or too precious to use.
Furniture is arranged for conversation, materials are chosen for how they age, and the overall design is refined, but never rigid. Often the furniture, lighting, and decor is art in and of itself. We work with a lot of California brands and artists to source one-of-a-kind pieces for our clients that are both functional and beautiful, and truly unique. A few of our favorite California vendors include Victoria Morris Pottery, Lawson Fenning and Stahl & Band.
This is usually what’s missing when clients say their home “isn’t working,” even if everything technically looks finished.
What they’re really responding to is a lack of ease.
Done right, a California style home feels comfortable without being careless. It's durable for everyday life, and calm without feeling empty. If this sounds like the type of home you’d love to design, let’s talk!
How You Can Work With Us
Lorla Studio is a full-service interior design and architecture firm based in Washington, D.C. Our talented team of designers craft modern, livable and functional spaces throughout the district and beyond. Hire us for a seamless renovation process, and a warm, approachable design you are sure to love!
Serving Washington D.C. • Bethesda • Chevy Chase • Kensington • Potomac
Check out the five questions to ask yourself before hiring an interior designer in Washington D.C. If you think we’d make a good team, contact us today!
Ready to transform your space with us?