Previously owned by American investor Warren Buffet, this Californian house has been given a modern makeover by Studio Gutow to fit the needs of its new owners
The exclusive gated community of Emerald Bay in Laguna Beach, California, typifies the high-end waterfront living so coveted by movers and shakers in the Golden State, with many billionaires and corporate honchos drawn to the locale’s unspoilt oceanic views, ruggedly picturesque cliffsides, and private beaches. The homes themselves—pristine, neutral-hued structures that foster indoor-outdoor living—exemplify all that is desirable about shoreline dwellings and their therapeutic vibe.
Formerly owned by financial mogul Warren Buffett as a vacation home, this four-bedroom property was given a full makeover by Studio Gutow, an American interior design firm led by Rohani and principal designer Lisa Berman. The abode’s current owners are Studio Gutow director Melissa Rohani and her businessman husband Parsa Rohani; they live in the 4,898 sq ft abode with their four young children.
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Studio Gutow worked with Pelican Developers, Dan Luna Woodworking and Molly Wood Garden Design to create a home that retained its roots, yet employs a rich, layered aesthetic to bring it into the 21st century. The goal was to update its 1930s structure and 1970s-style interiors with a medley of modern touches, vintage furnishings, and eclectic treatments. The result is a chic, three-level beach house with a laidback yet refined feel; a cosy abode tailor-made for an active family with young children.
“[It is obvious that] the previous family loved the home,” says Melissa Rohani of the Buffetts. The couple sought to maintain this happy energy, and preserve the original intent of the home. She adds: “It had an overwhelmingly positive vibe we could feel as soon as we walked through the door for the first time. Rather than absorbing the space, we sought to just complement it.”
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