So Fresh and So Clean

Keeping things cool and simple doesn’t always require sacrificing sophistication: The right mix of cozy textures and light-colored finishes can elevate a home’s summer style. We caught up with Jess Cheng and Cat VanderLaan of Honolulu interior design firm Noe Studio to learn about their recent project in East Oahu and to provide readers with some chic, soothing notes for their own spalike spaces. Cheng and VanderLaan break down fresh concepts of balance, minimalism, authenticity and sense of place — all of which can seamlessly transition from one season to the next.

What was the inspiration behind the overall design of the project?
The word noe actually means “mist, fog or rain spray” in olelo Hawaii, and we named our studio that because we have always had a fond appreciation for the way that water vapor creates layers in our surroundings here in Hawaii. Whether it’s the light mist hanging over the Koolau Range or a spray of water against the craggy volcanic cliffs — we always find beauty in that layering of textural elements. This client really allowed us to explore that idea with her home, with the only qualifiers being that she wanted a Japandi aesthetic that was filled with light neutrals. We utilized light porcelain tiles, natural limestones, light oak woods, and layered all of that with handmade ceramic and plaster light fixtures, natural stone tables and quite a bit of bouclé.

What are some of your favorite pieces or details incorporated into these spaces?
One of our favorite spaces that we got to redo in the home is the kitchen — we created double islands topped off with a fresh concrete-look countertop and hand-cast plaster lights from Lithuania. We also really love the play on textures in the primary bathroom, where we added Japanese washi wallpaper to the toilet room and a split-cut stone to the wall behind the bathtub and shower. The bathtub is also solid concrete in a beautiful ivory hue.

Any tips for homeowners seeking a calming, earthy and airy aesthetic?
Again, we believe that focusing on layering textures instead of color really lends itself to creating an earthy and airy feel. Keeping everything in a muted tone, but utilizing varying textures, will allow for a space to not only be simple and calming, but also provide warmth and that level of cozy a house should really feel. We also believe that not every nook and cranny of a home needs to be filled with a piece of furniture or a piece of art. There’s something to be said about negative space.

Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.