A Los Altos family achieved a balance of modern and traditional elements for a gorgeous home renovation.
A custom table and ash-toned dining chairs from What A Room set the stage in the dining room.
THE PROJECT
Realizing a home needs a makeover is easy. Figuring out the steps to take is the challenge. A couple with two children and a 4,000-square-foot house in Los Altos knew they wanted to blend modern and traditional elements in every room. They also wanted a simple, minimalist home, steering clear of anything too elaborate. But how do you create a dream home, build an extension and make every square inch feel warm and inviting?
THE TEAM
The couple tapped Mini Gangwal, principal designer at MGG Designs (mggdesigns.com), for the project. In addition to tackling the project’s interiors, her team’s scope encompassed a remodel of the house, integrating a new structural addition that seamlessly expanded its footprint.
“My design aesthetic is clean-lined, minimalistic, comfortable and inviting,” says Gangwal. “I believe in creating functional and visually serene spaces where each element serves a purpose. I always strive to incorporate and reflect our clients’ design sensibility and lifestyle.”
The living room includes a bespoke sofa that takes in remarkable views.
THE GOALS
Gangwal says she approached the remodel focusing on clean lines and muted colors, ensuring that every element contributed to a serene and uncluttered atmosphere. “By embracing their preference for simplicity, we could craft a home that not only fulfilled their immediate desires but also laid the foundation for a serene and enduring living experience.”
ENTRY & LIVING ROOM
“In designing the entryway, we aimed to create a welcoming and visually captivating space,” says Gangwal. “One of the standout features is the reflected modern print mylar wallcovering from Wolf Gordon (wolfgordon.com). This wallpaper adds a touch of elegance and sets the tone for the entire home.” To enhance the entryway and complement the wallpaper, Gangwal installed a custom oak slat wall. This design element integrates with the oak cabinetry featured throughout the house. Gangwal’s team prioritized accommodating family gatherings. She also ensured that muted color preferences took precedence when crafting bespoke sofas for the living room. “Mindful of practicality, we recommended performance fabrics that marry elegance with durability,” says Gangwal, noting that the living room’s centerpiece is an oversize chandelier by Kenzo Lighting (kenzolighting.com.sg).
The room also benefits from Jaipur Living (jaipurliving.com) rugs, a custom sofa and chair from What A Room (whataroom.com), a Skydome pendant from Pablo Designs (pablodesigns.com) and Benjamin Moore (benjaminmoore.com) paint.
An 8-foot island crafted from durable quartz anchors the kitchen.
DINING ROOM
“This space exemplifies our commitment to translating the couple’s desires into tangible, functional beauty within their home,” says Gangwal. “The dining area serves as a hub for shared meals and seamlessly integrates with the kitchen, fostering a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the open layout. The Twist LED Linear Suspension by AFX Lighting (afxinc.com) is upscale and simple.”
A custom table takes the spotlight, paired with sleek, ash-toned dining chairs from What A Room that align perfectly with the home’s cohesive design aesthetic.
KITCHEN
“Central to the space is a commanding 8-foot island, meticulously crafted from durable quartz,” says Gangwal. “Every detail of our custom-designed kitchen reflects a passion for culinary artistry, with bespoke cabinetry maximizing storage without compromising aesthetic refinement.”
The living room showcases Gangwal’s design mantra of creating a welcoming and visually captivating space.
PRIMARY SUITE
“The primary bedroom has become a true oasis for the owners, featuring a custom headboard wall with wooden slats that add warmth and character,” says Gangwal. “The custom green-toned bed anchors the room, providing a stunning focal point.”
To enhance the luxe feel, the team designed a custom TV wall featuring a built-in fireplace. Standout features include a custom bed from What A Room, an Alder & Tweed (alderandtweed.com) accent chair, Cowtan & Tout (cowtan.com) wallpaper, a Lightology (lightology.com) floor lamp and a Sunpan (sunpan.com) end table.
THE TAKEAWAY
“Despite the challenge of balancing scale in the expansive home, our team skillfully curated a harmonious fusion of traditional charm and modern aesthetics, creating a truly beautiful family residence,” she says.
A custom bed from What A Room graces the primary suite.
Type
Single-family home
Location
Los Altos
Architecture
MGG Designs
mggdesigns.com
RESOURCES
AFX Lighting
Lighting, dining room
afxinc.com
Alder & Tweed
Accent Chair, primary suite
alderandtweed.com
Benjamin Moore
Paint, living room,
primary suite
benjaminmoore.com
Cowtan & Tout
Wallpaper, primary suite
cowtan.com
Jaipur Living
Rugs, living room
jaipurliving.com
Kenzo Lighting
Chandelier, living room
kenzolighting.com.sg
Lightology
Floor lamp, primary suite
lightology.com
Pablo Designs
Pendant, living room
pablodesigns.com
Sunpan
End table, primary suite
sunpan.com
What A Room
Custom sofa and chair,
living room; chairs, dining
room; bed, primary suite
whataroom.com
Wolf Gordon
Wallpaper, entry
wolfgordon.com
Photography by: R. BRAD KNIPSTEIN
