Commune design

Renovation of a ten acre vacation compound in Northern California, including a main house, originally built in the 1930s, two tents and two cabins. The goal was to enhance the interiors with handcrafted millwork and furniture pieces by local artisans, as well as a large selection of objects and furnishings, ultimately creating an elevated camping experience for a family of six.

This residence, located on a bluff above a surf break in Santa Cruz, California was designed in collaboration with Feldman Architecture. The house, lined inside and out with Monterey Cypress salvaged locally by Evan Shively at Arborica, was handcrafted with a keen eye for detail by RJL Construction. Other natural materials; including soapstone, plaster, concrete and unlacquered copper and brass, were chosen for their propensity to patina with time, particularly in the salt air. A conceit…

The client of this home in Berkeley Hills, California, wanted a house that was beautiful but completely user-friendly. | Photographer: Trevor Tondro | Designer: Commune Design

Even the pros can't resist a good DIY

Discover the secrets of maximalist interior design and how to create a daring and eclectic home. This exploration unveils how to blend bold colors, intricate patterns, and an array of textures to design vibrant living spaces that reflect your unique personality. Learn how to transform your home into a maximalist masterpiece with tips on creating a lively living room, an elegantly eclectic bedroom, and a kitchen bursting with charm. Join us in celebrating the art of abundance and…

On the soulful interiors of artist spaces.

4,700 sq.ft. Main House, with 400 sq.ft. Garage - Renovation & Addition to Garden Level Upon finding this immensely beautiful three story redwood house which had not been updated since the turn of last century, this family simultaneously planned a renovation and a move across country to the Bay area with their two young girls. After decades of living in New York, what they valued most would be a strong connection to nature. The bond with nature became a guiding design principle. When…

For a young Manhattan family recently transplanted to Northern California, the L.A. design firm Commune breathes new life into a historic Berkeley home