The Livable Edit

PROJECT FEATURE

Crystalline | Carlsbad, CA

This month, we’re pulling back the curtain on our most viral design yet. Get an inside look at the standout details that brought our Crystalline Project to life.

Our goal for this home was to create a comfortable and practical space for a busy family of four and their two cats. We chose materials that could handle daily life with kids and pets, while still keeping the home feeling open and inviting.

Crystalline Project family room in Carlsbad with centered fireplace and arched built-ins

Family Room Renovation: Recentering the Fireplace and Adding Arched Built-Ins

The homes in this neighborhood all have one thing in common, they all have an outdated design style of an offset fireplace. For the family room we removed the big hearth, re-centered the fireplace, and added a pair of arched built-ins to bring symmetry and intention to the space. These updates give the room a sense of balance and warmth, while keeping it practical for everyday living.

Arched built-in storage in the Crystalline Project family room

Built-in storage keeps the space organized and free of clutter, supporting the room's calm, everyday rhythm. Clean lines, soft neutrals, and plenty of natural light, layered with thoughtful lighting, create a warm, livable atmosphere that feels both easy and intentional.

Top Knobs Kinney pull and cabinet latch hardware on family room built-ins

Now for the details. We used hardware from Top Knobs: Kinney Pull and Cabinet Latch. The fireplace was framed with a stone slab that our client handpicked, which added a personal touch to the family room.

Modern Kitchen Design with Zellige Backsplash and Calacatta Lux Quartzite

In the kitchen, we mixed and matched hardware finishes to add some depth and visual interest. The warm Atlas Bradbury Pull complemented the cooler finishes of the pot filler, faucet, and stove, creating a balanced contrast that feels visually interesting and cohesive.

Mixed hardware finishes featuring the warm Atlas Bradbury pull alongside cooler pot filler, faucet, and stove finishes

Texture was introduced with a beautiful zellige backsplash, arranged in a classic subway tile layout, and paired with Calacatta Lux Quartzite countertops.

Zellige backsplash in classic subway layout with Calacatta Lux Quartzite countertops

For styling, we kept things understated with soft florals and a white glazed pot, which added subtle character. The minimal kitchen accessories let the design take center stage, creating a clean and functional space.

Soft florals in a white glazed pot styled on Calacatta Lux Quartzite kitchen counter

Custom Walk-In Pantry with Hand-Built Sliding Pocket Door

This pantry was made possible by converting what used to be a passthrough from the living room into the kitchen and dining space. By reimagining this space we were able to create what is now the pantry and this beautiful sliding pocket door.

Hand-built sliding pocket door at the entrance to the Crystalline Project pantry

Crystalline Project Pantry: Frequently Asked Questions

Now for the most exciting part: the pantry details. These are the top questions we have received across platforms.

Where can I buy this pantry door?

This door was handbuilt for our client's home. It is one-of-a-kind, which makes it so much more special.

What stain was used on the Crystalline pantry door?

The stain was a custom-mixed color, tested a few times beforehand to ensure it matched the overall palette.

What paint color is used inside the Crystalline pantry?

Lamp Room Grey by Farrow and Ball. The same Calacatta Lux Quartzite countertops from the kitchen were brought into the pantry as well.

Watch Our Pantry Reel | Shop Crystalline

Crystalline Project Sources and Materials

Here is a full breakdown of the materials and finishes used throughout the Crystalline Project:

  • Family room hardware: Top Knobs Kinney pull and cabinet latch
  • Family room fireplace surround: stone slab handpicked by our client
  • Kitchen hardware: Atlas Bradbury pull paired with cooler pot filler, faucet, and stove finishes
  • Kitchen backsplash: zellige tile in a classic subway layout
  • Kitchen and pantry countertops: Calacatta Lux Quartzite
  • Pantry pocket door: hand-built one-of-a-kind, finished in a custom-mixed stain
  • Pantry interior paint color: Lamp Room Grey by Farrow and Ball

Crystalline Project Before Photos: Carlsbad Family Home

Crystalline Project before photo of the original family room with offset fireplace
Crystalline Project before photo of the original kitchen and dining area
Crystalline Project before photo of the passthrough that became the pantry

Planning a Renovation in Carlsbad?

The Crystalline Project is one of our whole home renovations in Carlsbad, California. If you are thinking about a renovation, a kitchen redesign, or custom built-ins for your home, we would love to hear about your project.

Inquire about your project →     |     View our services →      |     Browse the full portfolio →

by Joey Snow, Founder of Joey Snow Design Co. | Carlsbad, CA

 

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