FRANK.: Crafting a Couture-Inspired Sanctuary

Can you tell us about the vision behind this residential project and the overall design concept?

Our design was deeply inspired by the Lover archetype, characterized by its romantic, sensory, and inclusive qualities—an essence that permeates the entire project. This home is a manifestation of the profound love shared by our clients, created to seamlessly accommodate the blending of their two families. Each room reflects their passion for high fashion, drawing inspiration from the opulence and artistry of couture houses, a nod to our client’s vibrant self-expression through style. The result is an elevated, extravagant space that serves as both a personal sanctuary and a welcoming haven for hosting unforgettable gatherings.

What were the key elements you focused on to achieve the desired aesthetic, and how did lighting contribute to this vision?

Our goal was to create a home that not only feels inviting but also captivates the senses, evoking the dreamlike essence of life in every detail. The lighting design was envisioned as a harmonious blend of classic sophistication and whimsical artistry, with bold, distinctive fixtures serving as jewel-like focal points throughout the space. For the dining room, we selected The Welles as a centerpiece, perfectly complementing the materiality of the adjacent wine display, which elegantly descends toward the ocean views. To enhance its impact in the dining area, we curated a custom configuration featuring a refined interplay of smoked glass and brass finishes, adding depth and texture to the overall aesthetic.

How did you approach lighting to balance both functionality and ambiance, and what types of fixtures (e.g., pendants, chandeliers, wall sconces) were selected for the space?

Ambient lighting and task lighting was carefully curated as sculptural art pieces throughout the home and living space, reflecting the dramatic and opulent interior concept. With striking metal inlays and luxurious materials as a foundation, we sought lighting fixtures that were bold, geometric, and timeless chandeliers — unbound by specific eras but captivating as standalone statement pieces. This approach mirrored our client’s impeccable fashion sense, where every outfit is elevated by iconic accessories, from a Birkin bag to dazzling diamonds.

Each space was thoughtfully adorned with an array of chandeliers, wall sconces, and pendants, selected with precise intention to complement the scale of the room and guide the viewers’ attention. Every choice, like every detail at FRANK., was made to ensure a harmonious balance between form and function, resulting in a home as breathtaking as it is personal.

How did you incorporate bespoke or unique design features into the space, and what materials, textures, and finishes were central to defining the luxury of the residence?

This home embodies the pinnacle of high fashion and ultra-luxury, where every detail was meticulously considered and purposefully executed. From the bespoke hardware to the precisely crafted stair treads, nothing was left to chance. Every element, from the floor-to-ceiling millwork to the most intricate features, was fully customized—eschewing anything off-the-shelf to create a residence of unparalleled individuality.

In the primary bathroom, a Roman tub serves as the centerpiece beneath a motorized operable skylight, paired with custom dual Waterworks fixtures. This space offers a breathtaking connection to nature, allowing one to soak in the serenity of ocean views, watch whales glide across the horizon, or gaze at the stars above—a truly extraordinary and immersive experience.

How closely did you work with the client to ensure their vision was reflected in the final design? Did they have specific requests for certain design features or rooms?

Our clients were deeply engaged in every conversation, a process that ignited a newfound passion. They delighted in discovering the narratives behind each detail, immersing themselves in the journey and contributing meaningfully to the creative process. Our clients articulated the emotions and experiences they envisioned for their home, and we, in turn, translated their aspirations through our lens of expertise.

This residence is the embodiment of a collaborative dream: they imagined it, we conceptualized it, and together we brought it to life, transforming their vision into an exquisite reality.

What are you most proud of in this project, and what feedback have you received from the client about the finished design?

This home stands as a true masterpiece, and the sense of fulfillment we feel in presenting such an extraordinary creation to the world is unparalleled. What makes it truly special, however, is knowing how much our clients cherished every step of the journey and the joy they experience coming home to their dream space each day.

The most profound takeaway from this project was its seamless fusion of diverse design tastes and bold, over-the-top elements. Its success is a testament to the trust our clients placed in our expertise, granting us the creative freedom to bring their vision to life. Our builder’s dedication to meeting and exceeding expectations, combined with the collaborative synergy we shared with our architect, vendors, subcontractors and the contractor was instrumental. As every designer knows, strong relationships within the team elevate the entire process, making the art of creating spaces as enjoyable as it is rewarding.

Credits

Designer: FRANK.

Architect: CJLight & Associates

Builder: PMR

Photographer: Chad Mellon

Project: La Senda