This Sonoma Home Lets Its Natural Surroundings Shine

The 14-acre property that this Glen Ellen, California, house sits on is completely serene and idyllic with its own lake. But the home itself—originally designed by J. Lamont Langworthy and purchased by its current owners in 2014—had fallen into disrepair.

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“While the architectural bones were significant, the layout and systems were dated: the kitchen was closed off, the main bedroom faced south—making it too exposed and hot—and the guest wing lacked properly placed baths. Nearly all finishes, systems, and electrical work needed updating,” explains Nikki Haramoglis, creative director and founder of Westward
Atelier.

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The clients loved the natural setting, especially how it had a feeling of being an escape or refuge. In addition to tapping the Westward Atelier team, they had hired Bay Area architect Kate Stechshulte to reimagine the home, strengthen its connection to the outdoors, optimize the layout, and make the space more energy-efficient. 

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The closed-off kitchen was opened up to the main living area and a natural stone island become the centerpiece of the space.

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To solve the problem of the main bedroom, a new north-facing primary suite was added for privacy and comfort. The old bedroom became a communal space with stunning views.

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Additionally, two new offices were added and solar panels were installed to power the fully electric home.

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In terms of interior design, the owners were inspired by a warm, modern Mediterranean aesthetic. Bathrooms feature Italian terracotta tile, oak cabinetry, and Moroccan Tadelakt plaster walls. Bronze accents were introduced, which balance the concrete countertops and wood cabinetry. Open shelves feature a Southwestern pottery collection. And brass fixtures from Allied Maker work well with the main living space’s high ceilings.

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“We were intentional with every decision to ensure the main rooms felt quiet and grounded in natural materials—wood, glass, marble, brass, white oak flooring, and creamy white walls,” explains Nikki. “A curated mix of soft goods added warmth, texture, and subtle interest while remaining neutral and inviting. With walls of glass as the focal point, our goal was to bring the outdoors in, allowing nature itself to serve as the artwork. Every fabric, metal, tone, and texture was chosen with purpose. Our objective as the design team was to allow the architect’s work to come forward. We had such appreciation for what she was able to accomplish with this home, and wanted those special features to shine big!”

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The Westward Atelier team also worked with The Well Montecito (owner Shane Brown and manager Mimi Doll) to outfit the home in new and vintage pieces.

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Now the home is perfect for entertaining, which the owners love to do. “Their vision of creating a comfortable, spacious ‘holiday home’ was achieved, with ample room for gatherings around large tables,” Nikki says. “Known for hosting friends and family in groups both big and small, they—and their guests—are delighted with the result.”

Stylist: Michele Gasparini