A HOUSE OF UNEXPECTED PAIRINGS

This project marks our third collaboration with a cherished client whose openness and instinct for design continue to shape some of our most expressive work. Over time, we’ve developed an intuitive creative rhythm—fast, collaborative, and grounded in trust. She is, in every sense, a “yes client,” allowing ideas to unfold with clarity and confidence.

The story began in August 2020 during the renovation of the family’s primary residence next door. Soon after, we were invited to reimagine the adjacent property as a ground-up home designed for relaxed living and hosting. Architect Scott Thomsen created a structure that echoes the Cape Cod vernacular of the original house, uniting the two through grey-washed shingles, crisp white detailing, latticework, and classic Bevolo lanterns—forming a cohesive and quietly elegant compound.

Within this framework, the interiors take a more liberated turn. Conceived as a guest house not yet in full-time use, the design embraces a layered, expressive sensibility—where color, pattern, and texture come together with a sense of ease rather than formality. Spaces flow intuitively, balancing refinement with a relaxed, coastal spirit.

MTD served as both interior and lighting designer, carefully orchestrating every element of the home—from custom cabinetry, doors, and ceiling treatments to a fully integrated lighting plan responsive to the architecture’s vaulted volumes. Sculptural fixtures, many sourced from emerging European makers, are layered with precision, adding both warmth and visual interest.

The result is a home that feels effortless yet deeply considered—an extension of the main residence, but with its own distinct voice. Rooted in comfort, shaped by creativity, and guided by trust, it captures a sense of Mediterranean ease that is both timeless and personal.

Architect: Left Coast Architecture
Builder: Branagh Custom Homes
Landscape Architect: David Thorne Landscape Architecture
Lighter Designer: Maria Tenaglia Design
Stylist: Lucy Bamman
Photography: John Merkl Photography