1. BRING THE OUTSIDE IN
The outdoors lifestyle has a huge influence on the Californian kitchen style, and natural light, the indoor-outdoor flow and a connection to nature are all important factors in achieving the aesthetic.
'A quintessential California kitchen often features an open layout that encourages effortless flow between cooking, dining, and entertaining,' says Victoria Holly.
2. INCLUDE ZELLIGE TILES
'People love being outside at the beach, hiking, surfing, biking, swimming or camping. The zellige tiles in this Californian kitchen bring in that natural, imperfect texture of the outside into the space. The varying white color of the tile also makes it feel neutral and cloud like.'
3. INCLUDE SWATHES OF MARBLE FOR A SHOT OF GLAMOR
Marble is the ideal kitchen countertop material, backsplash or kitchen island material as it's natural and boasts an organic-luxe aesthetic that represents Californian style.
4. OPT FOR WOODEN CABINETRY
Wood kitchen cabinets are a mainstay of Californian kitchens and offer that back-to-nature feel that chimes so well with the outdoorsy lifestyle. In the kitchen by Banner Day Interiors above, wood is paired with white cabinets - another top choice - and a marble backsplash to create a contrast between materials for visual interest.
5. MIX LUXE MATERIALS
Mixing up materials allows for a blend of laidback yet glamorous - a balance that's important in Californian decor in general. 'We love to add a mix of luxe materials, like shearling and metal to a kitchen to give it a little more edge and interest,' says Kristen Pena, Principal, K Interiors.
6. PAIR MODERN AND VINTAGE ELEMENTS
Pair modern elements with vintage. Look for vintage ceramics to style with or vintage barstools that make a statement, with curved backs, round seats, or mixed metals.
7. SEE THE LIGHT
One of the most important things about a Californian kitchen is making sure it's got enough light. Natural light is always favored, but you can always brighten things up with white surfaces and kitchen countertop finishes.
8. INVEST IN STATEMENT SEATING
One things Californians love to do is entertain, and a big open kitchen with an indoor-outdoor flow is the perfect place to do it.
9. INSTALL DESIGN-LED LIGHTING
Cool lighting is an important feature of any Californian kitchen, and will instantly elevate the space from functional to design-forward.