Let there be Light

Author:

Ruby Dominguez curates a modern marvel in Pebble Beach

A pair of Boss chairs by Flexform swivel from the fireplace to the vast views. Photos by Gina Taro.

“I was born and raised in Carmel Valley and had the opportunity to be surrounded by beautiful landscapes,” says designer Ruby Dominguez. “I have always been intrigued by how the light shifts throughout the day and how the lighting in the valley was completely different from the coast.” And inside this Pebble Beach home, she curated interiors that take full advantage of the expansive views and natural light that flood in through the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows by Benchmark Window & Door. “My client was a commercial developer in the Bay Area and loved the game of golf,” she notes. “This home is his prized possession.”

A pair of Cadet swivel stools by Altura covered in Jerry Pair leather sit in the marble-clad kitchen. Photos by Gina Taro.
“I commissioned Cliff Hersh to make the Skylon light into a double oval,” she says. “He has since introduced the oval into his line, but the double is a one-of-a-kind piece and will not be reproduced.” Photos by Gina Taro.

The 6,000-square-foot modern residence is designed to take full advantage of the sweeping coastal bluff that sits just outside, while embracing the laid-back California lifestyle. “My client desired a modern home that was warm, full of textures and beautiful one-of-a-kind finishes, that integrated itself within the landscape and the cypress trees,” says the designer. “This home would also be a place for large gatherings for they loved to entertain.”

A pair of the Apollinaire sconces by Jonathan Browning shed light on custom-made basket weave tiles by Ann Sacks in a powder room. Photos by Gina Taro.

Even though the client has several homes, this is the crown jewel. From the finishes to the fabrics, every detail creates a serene sophistication that complements the architecture by Eric Miller. Aside from the views, the main focal point is an expansive family room customized for entertaining and the client’s rare wine collection. “It was a long, tall, and narrow room so I decided to place bookcases around the perimeter of the room in an asymmetrical pattern of shelving to create an artsy feel,” she notes. “The bookcases ended up being a great use of the space plus it was impressive when you walked down the stairs. It was a surprise that you were not anticipating.”

In the primary bedroom, Dominguez customized the Madison bed and nightstands by Annees. Photos by Gina Taro.
The primary bathroom cabinets were color matched from the leather headboard in the primary bedroom.
Photos by Gina Taro.

Equally impressive is the smart integrated shade and AV systems designed by A Shade Above, that allows the homeowners to live life to the fullest with just one touch. “I am proud of how the interiors flowed from one space to another. I love how the furniture selections helped identify different congregating areas that could otherwise be a bit challenging,” says Dominguez. “The house was meant to entertain many guests and by dividing it into specific gathering areas that was achieved.”

The elongated family room features a custom wine closet. Photos by Gina Taro.