This property was purchased directly from the designer/architect, Alexander Design Builds who custom built much of the furniture to match the lines of the architecture, with a mix of materials (wood, brass, steel) threaded throughout the structure, furniture and countertops. We made this pristine space ours by hanging work by our favorite artists // Greg Galinsky // Cody Hudson // Chris Miller // and opting for our favorite sofa, rugs and throw pillows. Of course there’s niches for the dogs to relax near their people, all the details to make us feel right at home in the Sierras.
This property was designed and built by FAMM Arquitectura // it is an architectural gem nestled in the jungle and designed around the 3 Pochote trees that surround the home, thus its name Casa Trés Pochotes. It is a mixed material build focusing on pochote wood, cement and brick that is ambiently lit to pull focus toward the architectural details. We kept everything, including the red floor (we love the red floor) and worked with the inspiration of the home to design the interior using our local favorites // Santa Teresa furniture and decor // art and custom furniture by world renowned artist, Johanna Van Parijs //
This Ojai property was bought as a side-project for Gather founders, Chris Miller and Lauren Duke. For a time, Lauren used this inspiring space as her writing studio until they decided to update the kitchen, add a few architectural upgrades, install the pool and update landscaping. Chris led the design and contracting on the renovation // Chris is a self taught designer whose childhood dream was to become an architect. Instead, he became a professional skateboarder and got his design start by doing skateboard shapes and graphics, and later designing apparel and footwear. Being an entrepreneur, he got to scratch the architectural itch with design / build projects for trade shows, brand displays, office and retail projects. Over the years, he has done multiple home renovation projects and more recently partnered with Anacapa Architecture for his first ground up build.
Inspiration resources: Brett Farrow Architect // Walker Workshop // Bates Masi // Nick Noyes // Alexander Design
This sprawling Ojai property was purchased in 2019 and was the historic home of dancer Billie Barry in the 1950’s. Chris and Lauren moved in and lived in the studio while they thoughtfully restored and renovated the property in 2021 with Chris contracting his own designs. After the property was finished and they moved into the big house, Lauren led annual sold-out yoga retreats on the property continuing the lineage of healing movement on the land.
Inspiration resources: Brett Farrow Architect // Walker Workshop // Bates Masi // Nick Noyes // Alexander Design
Designers & Architects
When considering design and architecture, sometimes it comes down to choosing what you like and working within the original vision of the person who designed the home. Other times, it’s about bringing out the potential of an older space, letting in the light and modifying floorpans to make the most of the layout. When approaching a project, we try to find balance between our personal template of renovation and design, and conforming to the original vision of what already is.
