El Cerrito – Lower-Level Speakeasy Retreat

When I first met this young couple, they had a clear vision: they wanted a space that felt nothing like the rest of their house. They dreamed of a place where friends could gather for cocktails, music, and long conversations—a moody, layered hideaway that would surprise anyone who stepped downstairs. “Think speakeasy vibes,” they said. And I was all in.

We leaned into rich textures—velvet, burl wood, handwoven textiles—and saturated tones, like deep forest greens and soft golds. The couple weren’t afraid to take risks (that wallpapered bar alcove—YES), which made the design process feel playful and collaborative.

But the best part? Seeing their faces when it was complete. What used to be a cold, forgotten basement now feels like a secret jewel box—soulful, elevated, and completely them.

This is the kind of project that reminds me why I love what I do.✨