Berkeley Residence
Imbued in a lifetime of treasures, Berkeley Residence by Studio AHEAD finds joy in the expression of ad-ad-hoc layers, delightfully playful art and objects that deepen one’s connection to place.
Resting atop an elevated site amid the treelined streets of Berkeley, California, an historic dwelling exudes the enduring charm of its Carpenter Style origins. Shrouded by symmetry and order, formality is soon dissolved by an eclectic interior of art and objects, creating a container of precious memories that echo the vibrant lives of the empty nesters who occupy this special place.
A central hallway signals an arrivals sequence that draws ever deeper into layers of texture and rich tonality.
Conceived by Homan Rajai and Elena Dendiberia of Studio AHEAD, the project presents a vibrant living gallery as a tailored response to the client’s brief to inject new life and energy into their storied abode. “Meeting over plates of heirloom tomatoes and basil picked from the garden, the couple would share with us anecdotes of their travels, and we’d reply with stories of artists whom we’d introduced them to,” recalls Rajai. “Even though the scope was small, their energy and openness and the home’s architectural beauty compelled us to dive deeper.”
Comprising a ground-floor communal realm, with private upstairs quarters, the architecture deploys order and visual restraint to curate the interior experience. A central hallway signals an arrivals sequence that draws ever deeper into layers of texture and rich tonality. A fitting tribute to the idea that spurred the renewal, a patchwork of Moroccan and Turkish carpets adorns the timber stair in distinguished geometric patterns. “We designed this runner using antique rugs from the couple’s travels – beginning in the foyer, flowing up the stairs and diverging on the upper landing,” describes Rajai. Each enclosed room breaks from convention in unorthodox ways for an inherently playful expression.
As one meanders from space to space, duck egg blues gradually shift into moodier greens and warm-toned timbers. Patinaed turquoise copper and burnished metallic accents bestow the lustre of age against a contemporary backdrop of artful additions, including Garry Knox Bennett’s “Sylvia” and “Chicken #4”. “This local icon and chronic stoner was also a brilliant furniture designer and artist, making him a perfect choice to represent the client’s whimsical and mischievous side,” muses Rajai. Filled with a lifetime of curious objects, the house reflects a melting pot of influences from Africa, Europe and Southeast Asia.
Oversized pieces become prominent anchors across the living domain to evoke light-heartedness at every turn. Commissioned by Studio AHEAD and crafted by Inverness-based artist Ido Yoshimoto, a redwood mantel and doorway portal resembles Inuit carvings as a poignant cultural connector. Figures by Jeffie Brewer support the dining room table in the spirit of reinvention, while the familiar kitchen splashback is reassembled underfoot. Sculptural lights, paper rope inlays and wool felt furnishings culminate in a showcase of the studio’s imaginative design approach.
A story of care and custodianship resonates across the home in a joyful conversation between object, owner and artisan. Exuberance and additive layering deepen the experience of Berkeley Residence to engage more deeply with each space. “While it may seem like a challenge, the concept to not delete injects a stronger sense of identity because it’s real,” concludes Rajai.
Interior design by Studio AHEAD.
