Helena Studios
Interior Design

Describe the featured project.

This 1960s home boasted stunning Queen’s Necklace views but lacked architectural direction. The homeowner wanted a design that embraced the laid-back California lifestyle while also paying homage to the area’s signature red-tiled roofs and Spanish influence. Partnering with John Heins of Right Angle Construction, we created a warm, timeless space that honors its surroundings. With outdoor spaces nearly complete, we’re excited to celebrate the finished project just in time for summer!

In what ways is this project a representation of your work? 

When we see our clients in their home and it feels like it was made just for them, that is when we are truly satisfied. We often incorporate collected pieces that add depth and interest to a space. Whether it’s 18th-century doors imported from Italy or a retro-modern lamp found at the flea, these items bring a richness that can’t always be achieved with new pieces. This client leaned a little more Old World, so we focused on more traditional pieces with small touches of modern for a little tension.

Tell us about your business. 

Specializing in residential design—from renovations to new builds—we work on projects throughout the South Bay and are thrilled to be opening a satellite office in the Pacific Northwest. Building and renovating can be exciting yet stressful, and we take the responsibility of managing a client’s financial investment very seriously, approaching each project with transparency and care. It’s in that sweet spot where trust, collaboration and creativity align that we deliver a home that exceeds expectations.

How do you approach the challenge of merging aesthetics with functionality?

We design for real people who live in their homes. As much as we’d love to sneak in a stunningly impractical piece just because it looks amazing, if it doesn’t serve our clients’ needs, they’ll end up resenting it—and, let’s be honest, probably resenting us too. Luckily, we don’t have to choose between beauty and function. With so many well-crafted pieces available, plus the incredible artisans in Los Angeles, we can create spaces that are as livable as they are lovely.

How do you relax off the clock?

We are fortunate to have an off-grid island property in the Pacific Northwest where I go to recharge. This is a legacy property for my husband, myself and our four boys that we’ll pass down for generations. This summer, I’d love to spend some time personalizing the spaces there. It’s not magazine-worthy … yet.

Christine photographed by Fabien & Laura Castro | Project photographed by Lauren Taylor