Hawaii

When longtime clients invited me to see their newly purchased property, I was immediately struck—not by the existing structure, which was soon torn down, but by the secluded setting and sweeping ocean views. Rather than building a grand, ostentatious home, they envisioned something far more intentional: a serene, modern escape that would feel at one with its environment.
Working alongside architect John Anderson of 180 Degrees Design + Build along with builders Gary and Andrew Queen, we designed a low-profile one-bedroom bungalow with a separate Ohana house, both centered around the concept of effortless indoor-outdoor living. The expansive lanai nearly matches the square footage of the house, reinforcing the idea that the real luxury here is the landscape itself.
Inside, every element was carefully considered. White walls, vintage wood furnishings, and woven textures create a sense of warmth without distraction. Bamboo and raffia appear in every room, adding an organic sophistication that feels right at home in this setting. Instead of excessive layering, we relied on art, ceramics, and unique vintage finds to add depth and character. Even the decision to introduce a patterned fabric on the living room sofa and chairs was a point of debate, but in the end, it proved to be the perfect touch—subtle yet rich, adding just the right amount of personality.