Crafting a Dream Bungalow in Venice Beach

Growing up in Southern California, I am all too familiar with cute little beach bungalows. Think a craftsman with loads of charm and small, cozy spaces. This Venice Beach version got a modern makeover taking it from vintage love nest to gorgeous 21st century charm with the design savvy of Marissa Cramer of Made Co. Take a tour of this seaside cottage with even more shot by Amy Bartlam in the VAULT.

My boyfriend & I live in a Venice Beach 100 year Craftsman in a neighborhood near Abbott Kinney. The house has gorgeous windows and details that you just don't find in modern homes. It's a small home, a bungalow, that's loaded with charm and cozy qualities but was seriously lacking in modern touches throughout. We wanted to create a home that's welcoming, bright and modern while maintaining some traditional touches - a home that reflects our hip neighborhood and it's laid-back beach lifestyle.

KITCHEN

The kitchen was dated and needed the most attention. We removed the vinyl floors, purple built-in bench and replaced the countertops and backsplash.

We kept the original cabinets and gave them a fresh coat of white paint with new brass T-pulls from Schoolhouse Electric. My favorite feature is the new built-in bench w/ storage drawers. We have our morning coffee here and it's become my designated office, we love it!

Kitchen Sources

'Cement' Porcelain Tiles: Floor & Decor | Butcher Bock Countertop: Ikea | Brass Knobs: Schoolhouse Electric | Brass Pendant: Schoolhouse Electric | White/Brass Flushmount Light: CB2 | Framed Prints: Minted | Decorative Throw Pillows: Homegirl Collection

DINING ROOM

The built-in bar is original to the home and a focal point when you first walk in through the front door. I added some brass Anthropologie knobs for an easy update.

Rather than installing any window treatments, we opted to keep the windows free to accentuate the trim and moldings and allow more natural light to fill the home. I love the edging on the dining table - the wood tones and curves bring a wonderful organic feel to the space.

Dining Room Sources

White Oak Table: Crate & Barrel | Linen Upholstered End Chairs: Home Decorators | Metal Bistro Chairs: Restoration Hardware | Area Rug: West Elm | Chandelier: West Elm | Folded Metal Mirror: CB2 | Olympus Mons Print: Space X

LIVING ROOM

With all the bright white trim, I wanted to use a dark moody blue on the walls and fell in love with Benjamin Moore's Newburg Green.

Depending on the time of day and the light, the color can appear deep navy or it may have some green undertones showing in the early evening hours. It's a gorgeous color and a great backdrop for the lighter sofa and wood touches.

Living Room Sources

Sectional Sofa, Coffee Table and End Table: CB2 | Bookcase: Ikea | Blush Velvet Accent Char: West Elm | Walnut Console: Ikea | Vase on Console: Crate & Barrel | Throw Pillows: Studio McGee, Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware | Area Rug: Pottery Barn | Gray Linen Drapery: Pottery Barn | Drapery Rod: West Elm

BEDROOM

Our bedroom is a nice balance of masculine and feminine with the navy velvet curtains, gray walls and touches of blush and brass.

Bedroom Sources

Tate Upholstered Bed: Crate & Barrel | Linen Duvet: Restoration Hardware | Nightstands: Target | Task Lamps: Ikea | Drapery & Curtain Rods: West Elm | Dresser: Wayfair w/ Anthropologie Knobs | Round Mirror: West Elm

Photography: Amy Bartlam | Interior Designer: Marissa Cramer, Made Co. LLC