See how texture and metal combine to create a modern yet surprisingly warm family home

It is not often that you see a property that truly takes your breath away, but this Northern Californian is just that – breathtaking.

See: World's best homes – for more beautiful properties from around the globe.

Designed by Kimberley Harrison of Kimberley Harrison Interiors (opens in new tab) – one of the best in the business – it is easy to see why this home is so eye-catching. Known for designing homes that are warm, sophisticated and approachable, Kimberley and her team of esteemed interior designers are sticklers for detail. 'Our goal is always the same,' she says 'each time you walk into your home, you experience a feeling of harmony. To us, that is the very essence of a home you love.'

We spoke to Kimberley Harrison about the design process. 

The client, a third generation iron and steel company owner, was keen to incorporate metal elements into this home. It was Kimberley who suggested they warm up the space with texture and color – to add coziness and visual interest alongside the metals. Take the tour below. 

Kitchen

• See: Kitchen ideas – decor and decorating ideas for all kitchens 

When it comes to crafting an elegant kitchen design, it doesn't get much more sophisticated than an marvellous monochrome space. Here, the painted black island cabinetry was chosen as a contrast to the white oak cabinetry. Luxury hardware, finished in a black-bronze and vintage nickel, serve to add to the refined aesthetic. 

Complementary marble slabs were chosen with black, white and copper dramatic veining to top the countertop, island and walls. Using marble in a kitchen is a passport to instant luxury. Consider the marble carefully for spaces where you are using it in swathes because no slab of marble is the same as another. 

But the main focal point – the sand-blasted glass dome pendants – are a standout feature.

Living room

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The living room is a masterpiece in contemporary masculine design. Simple yet refined, we've used a carefully-curated selection of modern materials, angular shapes and tactile textures.

The Erden mohair, alpaca and wool rug add interest – and warmth – underfoot, while the geometric, metal bench by designer Stephane Ducatteau was first seen by Kimberley in Paris at Maison & Objet.

Bar

The ultimate luxury, especially while living in lockdown, a home bar has certainly come into its own during a Global pandemic. This bar was designed with a metallic bronze tile to complement the warm veining in the marble. A brushed nickel hammered sink, pewter faucet and horn hardware by Ochre, complete the custom design.

Dining room

• See: Dining room ideas – inspiration for decorating and furnishing your space

Two unique wallpapers – one with wafer thin layers of charcoal cork interspersed with metallic highlights and the other a white textured, plaster-like paper – add warmth to the room along with the carefully-chosen wood planking on the ceiling.  

Home office

A separation of the home office and hallway was achieved with the design of a custom fabricated metal and glass panel providing function and a unique architectural element. 

Crittall and steel-framed windows are a wonderful way to let light into a small space, so do consider them for narrow passageways. 

Guest bathroom

Black and white can completely alter the feel of a room but getting the balance right is key. While monochrome decorating can be tricky to get right, a considered approach will be rewarded by a simple but impactful scheme. Here, the show-stopper in this space is the Zephyr Nero floor-to-ceiling tile by Artistic Tile – with its inlaid brass, curved lines over beautiful hand-carved ridges.

Main bathroom

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Bedroom

Dressing room

Garden

Photography / Kathryn MacDonald

Interior design / Kimberley Harrison Interiors