PERCHED ATOP THE BLUFFS
Perched atop the Bluffs, overlooking the San Joaquin Golf Course, is one of Fresno’s architectural works of art. Every inch of this 4,233-square-foot home has been meticulously designed. Initially, I started with a couple of rooms, but then my clients were hooked…they wanted the whole house to be “Katie-fied!” This was one of those once-in-a-lifetime projects where it’s all just smooth sailing into the most impeccable work. This project speaks to my brand and personal style, as it is designed without compromise. If we wanted to do something, we did it. In the end, every choice was perfect. Using bold statements, in all the right ways, I’ve exhibited where to be loud and where to be soft.
The bones of this home are strong and striking. The original architecture incorporates soaring ceilings and glass walls. Each piece of furniture is unique. Every wallcovering, pillow, and window treatment was specifically designed with a chic vibe in mind. We started with a light, bright palette as the backdrop for the home. Textures, understated colors, and shapes were layered throughout. Warm marble and white oak floors run through the top main floor. On this floor, we sprinkled in woven naturals and shades of black in all the right spots.
Through double doors into the foyer, you’ll see a subtle yet sculptural chandelier with several tiers of whitewashed wood and curved iron arms. When switched on, the light glows from within, transforming the space into something magical! Beyond the foyer is the main living room, featuring an abstract watercolor mural. The pattern color “grey on marshmallow” drips down the walls descreetly and adds just enough interest without distracting from the views. I placed a luscious 10-foot katana palm tree in front of the mural to accentuate the soaring ceiling. Many of the furnishings in the living room incorporate curves and are especially prevalent on the curved plywood and glass cocktail table, which exemplifies the impact of daring elements in all the right areas.
The kitchen is drenched in Calacatta Belgia, a dramatic white Italian marble embellished with silver and grey striations. Crisp white cabinetry and luxurious polished nickel hardware are paired with the marble. My clients not only wanted to finish and furnish the space but also wanted every detail to be given the utmost attention. This included waiting 16 weeks for the perfect custom area rug for the kitchen sitting area. In addition, the carefully curated foliage in this space adds greenery and brings life to the room. As a result, the kitchen feels upscale but casual enough for cooking and lounging.
The original homeowner’s antique brass and burled wood furniture is showcased in the dining room. We layered in wallpaper, a bone-inlay console table, and hints of navy velvet. An organically formed white plaster chandelier adorns the angular wood ceiling. It sets just the right mood for all-night entertaining. When ready for an after-dinner drink, you can step outside the dining room and mix up a cocktail in the wet bar. I covered the walls in a petite charcoal herringbone pattern in this area and framed my client’s artwork in hand-chiseled gold leaf frames.
A hand-knotted Moroccan-style area rug sets the stage for the primary suite. Again, I used a bit more contrast to create drama. Engaging a bold move, I used a decadent black sheer drapery, which marries fine natural materials with dots of embroidery. Nightstands flank a channel-upholstered bed in an understated silhouette. The nightstands are clad in rich shagreen-embossed leather, a reproduction of the texture and intricate pattern of natural stingray hide. The primary bath is another area covered with marble floors and countertops, with an inset tile rug to ground the space.
Heading down the elevator, you enter the artist’s lounge. Polished concrete floors are the base for the rich colors and geometric patterns used here. My client is an artist, so I wanted to display her artwork in a unique way. We covered the back wall in a large-scale swirling line pattern to serve as a backdrop for the burled wood frames. We then showcased artwork within the open frames. I used natural materials such as petrified wood, silk, and cork in this space. The wood ceiling is an original characteristic of the home. Just past the artist’s lounge, the guest bedroom features a jungle-esque drapery mixed with hints of abstract polka dots. Rich forest green and gold accents make this space sing.
When designing a space, I thoroughly enjoy taking my client’s vision, giving it my own twist, and creating the perfect environment for clients to enjoy and share. By focusing on a client-centered approach, we created a balance of cohesion and collaboration. Yet, every room in this home also showcases the full extent of creativity. I always say, “It’s easy to work hard when you love what you do!” This was especially true for this project.
Interiors Contributor Katie Mendrin
Photographer Ellie Koleen
Katie Mendrin
Interiors Contributor
Katie heads Katie Mendrin Design, based in Fresno, California, and specializes in residential and commercial interior design. Applying 17 years of experience and focusing on a client-centered approach, she offers a balance of creativity, collaboration, and forward-thinking. The designer strives to create holistic, innovative, and cohesive environments. Katie thoroughly enjoys taking each client’s vision, mixing in her twist, and creating the perfect space for clients to enjoy.
Ellie Koleen
Photographer
Ellie is a lifestyle, wedding, and brand photographer based in Fresno, California. An artist behind the lens, her trademark airy, light-filled style and masterful camera angles make her work easily recognizable. She uses her love for all things design related as inspiration for her work. The Fresno Bee named Ellie Best Photographer for the People’s Choice Awards in 2018 and 2019.
