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changes , too ,” Bryen says .
These eclectic conversation pieces were complemented by accents like neutral-colored marble countertops and fireplaces , which were incorporated to ensure the space was visually stimulating without being chaotic .
“ A lot of the slabs in the house are a little moody , so I think they go along with the funk and function ,” Bryen says . “ My inspiration was to keep the house cohesive and calm because there is so much to look at — you don ’ t want to feel dizzy .”
THE COTTAGE COMEBACK While Bryen ’ s project is a modern marvel , Starr ’ s Balboa Island home demonstrates how historical charm can be reimagined through bold and playful elements . This project turned a decrepit abode into a bright , functional space that demonstrates Starr ’ s method of infusing character into every corner .
“ That particular cottage … is an 87-year-old
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house that the city demanded be torn down ,” she says . “ I was like , ‘ No , let ’ s save this cottage . Let ’ s completely reimagine and save it .’ ”
Not only did Starr rescue this home from being demolished , she fell in love with it along the way .
“ The funny thing is that I ended up being the client ,” she says . “ I did that little house for my daughter and I and a group of my dearest friends . … The day it was done , the keys went out to everybody that I loved .”
As an homage to her friends , Starr mounted a vintage painting of a drunken white Labrador retriever in repose on a striking , emerald green background in the living room . “ We based the whole room on that because what do our friends love to do ? We all come [ together and ] we have big dinner parties — and it would just be funny .”
This approach extends to smaller spaces , such as a powder room and pantry , where vibrant colors and bold patterns help open up these areas .
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“ The smaller the room , the bigger I go ,” Starr says , noting that the pantry was once dead space underneath a staircase that she refused to close up . It now features green cabinets and striped wallpaper . “ Just walk by that pantry and it puts a smile on your face ,” she says . “ Everything about it is just charming and fun , and it ’ s functional .”
Despite having additional homes in Munich and Los Angeles , the Balboa Island cottage is the one her family runs to immediately after disembarking the plane .
“ It ’ s a dream life ,” Starr says . “ There is not a corner I don ’ t turn that doesn ’ t make me so happy . … Every single room is just as yummy to me as the next .”
This sentiment captures the essence of maximalism , where every detail , pattern and color is thoughtfully curated to enrich the experience of the space . Maximalism is more than just a design trend — it ’ s an invitation to create environments that evoke joy and resonate with our personal stories . NBM
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RYAN GARVIN |
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34 NEWPORTBEACHMAGAZINE . COM |