Outer Sunset
A nurturing, vintage beach retreat
Home Renovation
Situated in beachy Outer Sunset next to beautiful Golden Gate Park, this condo built in 1961 is home to a lovely woman devoted to her community. With the majority of her time spent supporting kids and health initiatives, she dreamed of a soft place to land after her busy days.
We transformed her kitchen and living room into a soothing retreat that feels like a warm hug. The original kitchen, in particular, felt crowded and lacked functional storage. Though the layout didn’t change significantly, we extended it slightly to make space for the refrigerator and additional storage. This shift gives the kitchen the appearance of being larger than it is.
In order to maximize countertop and storage space, we selected apartment-size appliances. We cleverly lifted the upper cabinet to be flush with the range hood, making the kitchen feel more open, and also making space for a convenient spice shelf below. The new deep sink is a welcome luxury compared to the original that was just four inches deep.
The materials and finishes we chose make this kitchen feel like a vintage beach retreat: custom Amish-made white oak countertops and backsplash, Heath tile behind the range and on the floor, soothing muted blue cabinets, and Ashley Norton knobs reminiscent of worn beach pebbles. The heirloom wood dining chairs—lovingly made by our client’s great grandmother’s family—give the space distinctive character, meaning, and personality.
In the living room, we advised on selecting new, comfortable furniture and textured, neutral window treatments that align with the relaxed vibe of the home. Our client took the lead in incorporating these elements, and now her newly functional home embodies her personal sense of style while nurturing her soul—the same way she does for so many others.
Suzanna Scott, Photography
Studio VAE, Styling
