Scandinavian Sleek Meets California Cool in This Castro District Condo
Words: Gigi Migliazzo | Photography: Agnieszka Jakubowicz
San Francisco’s Castro District is defined by a vibrant melting pot of culture, color, and community. So too is this charming city condo, where Scandinavian modern meets California sensibility in a nod to the dynamic spirit of its surrounding neighborhood. The homeowners entrusted Katie Storey of Storey Design and contractor Mark Brockley to transform the space into a colorful yet classy Castro abode, flawlessly capturing the district’s eclectic soul.
Situated within the pulsating energy of public transit lines and bustling thoroughfares, the condo features sound and light-proof design elements to bring calm amidst the urban commotion. The husband's extensive record collection, housed in custom-built cabinetry tailored to accommodate his turntable and vinyls, helps to mask any residual noise. This auditory sanctuary finds its home in the living room, a serene space accentuated by deep blue hues to mirror the shifting tide of the nearby San Francisco Bay. The corner study nook adds to the peaceful retreat with a picturesque view over the lively streets below, while a sleek black-tiled fireplace completes the ambiance.
A testament to the owners’ wishes for a practical yet playful home, the childrens’ bedroom serves as a whimsical escape from city life. Evoking the spirit of an African safari, the space is adorned with wallpaper depicting leaping cheetahs, quirky animal figurines and a plush, life-size stuffed giraffe commanding attention. To maintain the sleek Scandinavian aesthetic favored by the homeowners, Storey incorporated a neutral color scheme and wooden-paneled bunk beds.
The hallway, featuring understated blue accents, bridges the playful ambiance of the kids' room to the sophisticated atmosphere of the master bedroom. Highly customized closets with rich green tones were added to optimize storage space while maintaining visual harmony with the window frames and wainscoting. In striking juxtaposition against the deeper hues, twin Victorian windows bring the California sunlight in to illuminate the space.
In true Castro fashion, the kitchen plays on a variety of colors, with the central island’s base color a striking violet and the eating nook adorned with cheerful pink chairs. This playful charm, married with the refined elegance of white cabinetry and a bespoke coffee bar station, speaks to Storey’s ability to bring diverse design preferences together for a cohesive result.
Every corner tells a story in the Castro District - and this condo is no exception. With meticulous attention to detail, Storey and her team have crafted a home that offers an elegant retreat for its residents while honoring the lively energy of its surroundings.
