Casa Moderna

Casa Moderna, a 4,700-sq-ft residence in Orange County, showcases how historical Spanish Colonial architecture - also known as Spanish revival - can be thoughtfully reimagined for contemporary living. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Olga Doykhen demonstrates how genuine architectural features—from traditional red clay roof tiles to meticulously integrated natural stone work—can be thoroughly incorporated rather than superficially applied. The result is a contemporary interpretation that honors Spanish Colonial heritage while serving modern family life.

The home's thoughtful design reveals itself gradually, beginning with an understated entrance marked by minimal Flos lights instead of a traditional gate. A modest wooden door leads to a glass-fronted rotunda, setting the tone for the seamless blend of historical and contemporary elements throughout the house.
The ground floor's layout prioritizes communal living, featuring a flowing sequence of spaces from the entrance hallway to the dining room, butler's pantry, and kitchen. Pocket doors in the kitchen and bifold doors in the living room create a seamless transition to an alfresco dining area, complete with a firepit and outdoor kitchen. This outdoor space extends to include a pool, outdoor shower, and sauna, embodying the indoor-outdoor living characteristic of the region's climate.

The second floor divides into two distinct private wings. One wing houses a children's bedroom with an additional living room and a guest bedroom, each with private bathrooms. The opposite wing contains the primary suite, featuring dual closets and an ensuite bathroom where natural stone makes a striking architectural statement.

Natural materials define the home's authentic character throughout. Italian travertine, specifically chosen for its vein-cut, silver-crystal appearance, adds contemporary elegance while honoring European architectural traditions. The ground floor features ocean-silver stone that creates visual continuity between the indoor kitchen, outdoor kitchen, and water feature. Additional materials include timber, wool, leather, and limewash in the bathrooms, each selected to reinforce the home's architectural integrity. Deliberate furnishings and lighting selections create a striking counterpoint to the home's materiality – sleek pendants and angular seating pieces float like modern sculptures against the textural backdrop of travertine, highlighting the dialogue between old and new.

Casa Moderna demonstrates how meticulous attention to authentic materials and architectural details can transform a suburban residence into a sophisticated family home that honors Spanish revival while embracing modern living.