Material World

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Stefani Stein personalizes a Venice townhome with lush stone and earthy finishes

“Both the client and I felt very strongly about natural stone countertops, rather than the composite countertops you often see in new builds,” says Stefani Stein about the Arabestcato Orobico countertops.
Photo by Amy Bartlam.

“My approach to design emphasizes the unique attributes of each client and their environment,” says designer Stefani Stein. “While many of my clients are looking for color and comfort, as a designer I’m intrigued by variety.” 

The pendants are by Rejuvenation and the fixtures are by California Faucets.
Photo by Amy Bartlam.

Inside this duplex in Venice, Stein infused the kitchen and bathrooms with organic sophistication for a developer client who was also living in one of the properties. “For this project, the client wanted an earthy and understated foundation. I focused on warm minimalism, including finishes and materials that felt understated, inviting and cohesive,” she says. “Using organic materials, vintage accessories and artisanal touches, selections were made to impart a casual and effortless vibe.” She wrapped the new build home in Arabescato Orobico marble, white oak, Japanese tile and architectural bronze plumbing.

Photo by Amy Bartlam.

“The guest bathroom has a fantastic, textured tile from Japan,” says Stein. “The variety of the finish varied from tile to tile. I worked with the installer to create a bit of a checkered feel working with the tonal variations to create the effect.”

Photo by Amy Bartlam.
Photo by Amy Bartlam.

Stein overcame the challenges of the lot size and tall narrow layout of 4-story townhouse gracefully and curated a masculine, casual vibe that the owner desired. “The client loves how all the materials came together. He couldn’t wait to move in!”