Minimalist decor, a neutral color palette and natural materials characterize Parachute Founder, Ariel Kaye’s, Venice Beach bungalow. With the help of interior designer, Orlando Soria, Ariel refreshed her home with comfort and easy entertaining top of mind. Watch Orlando incorporate elements from both the desert landscape and ocean nearby to create the ultimate retreat for our bustling entrepreneur.
Tips From Orlando, Interior Designer
Ariel gravitates toward neutrals, while your style is very colorful – how do you accommodate a client’s preference and also infuse your personal touch?
Orlando:Ariel loves simple, elegant and modern, while I gravitate towards color and bold accents! I was able to bring in playful touches with the sofa from Sixpenny in the living room and the amazing Block Shop Textiles prints in the guest room. Trust me, it is possible to achieve a minimal look while incorporating interesting art, accessories and texture!
One of Ariel’s top priorities for the refresh was to create cozy spaces for friends and family to relax. What are your tips for adding more comfy seating to a home?
Orlando:Ariel and her husband, Trevor, expressed interest in being able to have people over for movie nights, so we added items like floor pillows and an accent bench to create lots of seating. These items can be styled one way for everyday use (such as the vignette we created with the bench) and moved around when hosting. I love spaces that can easily transform depending on the use.
You refreshed Ariel’s house rather than executing an entire makeover. How did you restyle items throughout her bungalow to give them new life?
Orlando: Ariel is very detail-oriented, so I could tell it was driving her crazy that everything didn’t have its “right place.” For example, the guest bedroom had open shelving that looked disorganized, despite Ariel’s best efforts. I replaced the shelving with closed storage and added another console to display a selection of books and knick knacks. Ariel and Trevor have an amazing collection of art and mementos from their travels, so refreshing the space was really about finding new ways to organize – as well as display – these unique pieces.
Notes From Ariel, Client
Your house looks beautiful! What was your goal for the refresh – and how did you and Orlando collaborate?
Ariel:My biggest priority for the refresh was to find new ways to maximize the space. Trevor and I live in a small bungalow – so we have to make the most of every inch! We moved in over two years ago and plan to stay for a while, so I think it’s important to refresh every six to twelve months to make your home feel special again!
First on the to-do list was to update the master bedroom. Initially we prioritized decorating the living room and guest room as we love to host. Now that we are married and settled, my focus has turned to making the master bedroom a sanctuary.
It’s important to get a new perspective on decor and work with an expert in the field to get fresh ideas. Orlando is a character – and he did an amazing job at making the most of the space and providing us with more storage.
What advice would you share with others looking to update their home without a total overhaul?
Ariel:Updating your textiles is a cost effective way to refresh your home. A new duvet cover can change the entire vibe of your room, while new table linens set the tone for your next meal. I also suggest bringing greenery into the home. Plants clean the air and leave you feeling fresher.
What is your favorite room in the house now that it’s been revamped?
Ariel:Our bedroom!