We are so excited to introduce you to this talented budding designer and the beautiful work of Marin Design Co. When renovating this home, the goal was to transform the somewhat crowded bungalow into a light, breathable space with plenty of texture and livability. With the airiest layout and an expert eye for detail, Marin hit the nail on the head and is continuing to make waves in the Sacramento area and beyond.
Ranch House is stunning—we love the light and bright elements paired with the colorful artwork. How did you come to pick these specific art pieces?
Thank you so much! Collecting art has always been a passion of mine. As a child, we moved a lot, and I loved that no matter where we went our walls were covered in familiar artwork—it made every new house a home. My mom was an art history major and always talked to me about the importance of art, and then I was lucky enough to gain an extremely talented artist as a mother-in-law (Cindy Wilson Art). She has been instrumental in teaching me about acquiring local art.
Around 90% of the art on the walls of the Ranch House are from local Sacramento artists. When working with a client to curate art, I want to know what speaks to them—what styles they like, what they envision in their own homes and what artwork stands out in their memory. For example, at the Ranch House, we talked a lot about growing up boating on the river, so I found a piece by Richard Stein that shows the beautiful curvature of the Delta and surrounding fields.
How did you discover your personal style? What are some ways in which it has changed since you started designing?
After designing three homes for our growing family, I learned that I love the feel of a bright and airy space, but I also want that space to feel comfortable and cozy. After lots of trial and error (with paint, dark cabinets, bulky and dark furniture), I learned bright/airy and cozy/comfortable can be achieved with the finishing touches—pillows, throws, baskets, paintings and interesting objects. By keeping the overall design neutral, I can layer in these additional textures for a comfortable and inviting space.
With that said, I have a lot of clients reaching out and requesting the classic all-white kitchen and white walls, which is what I showcase in my portfolio, so it makes complete sense, but I am itching for a challenge. I am ready to try a dark and moody space that still has my signature airy feel.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
I love so many parts of the process: when the design comes together and my vision is actualized, collaborating with different trades or when inspiration hits for a certain space. I could go on and on, but what I have slowly learned I love the most is when my clients’ faces light up from a space we created.
What tips do you have for bringing in a clean and collected final touch to a space?
I believe it’s all about balance. By mixing different styles (modern with traditional, coastal with moody, clean and collected), the space feels intentional and balanced. In the Ranch House, I started with a neutral backdrop and then slowly added in the textural elements. Everything was intentionally picked and placed—and tweaked over and over. Sometimes, I feel like a broken record, but the words I say repeatedly to my clients are balance and intention. I believe these two things are the key to making any space feel complete.
Design: Marin Design Co.
Photos: Nicole Dianne Photography
Build: A.J. Construction and Remodeling Inc.
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