WHEN SPARKS FLY

WEST COAST LIFE IS REKINDLED AS ONE HOME'S ASHES GIVE RISE TO A NEW RESIDENCE WITH SEAMLESS SERENITY

- ELLA SCHULTE

The scorching embrace of summer's heat encompassed Malibu, California, residents long before and after a 2018 wildfire overtook the seaside city. Even so, for one couple, few things resemble life before the onslaught of the Woolsey Fire. Following their home's envelopment in flames, an uncertain future remained in the glow of embers.

The art of careful reclamation began under the poised and polished guidance of Brooke and Steve Giannetti. As the founders and owners of Patina Home and Garden, a company rooted in luxury lifestyle-driven design and architecture, the duo, who will release their fifth book, Patina Homes and Gardens (Gibbs Smith) this winter, knew how to go about building what looks to be a historic property from the ground up.

Inspired by the homeowners' love of music and the arts, the design duo realized creating a melodic oasis overflowing with serenity was top of mind. Whether new furnishings were sourced in the United States or abroad, each piece brought with it new life through its whisperings of imperfection.

Even at the entryway, sparks begin to fly. But this time, they're the good kind. "It's almost like you get a hug when you come in, and then as you continue, the house reveals itself slowly by opening up to a beautiful view of the ocean," Brooke says. "It feels as good as it looks."

Further inside, the rolling views unfold and the day's anxieties dissipate. The great-room's two-story details unveil a glass wall that retracts, blurring the lines between indoors and out. Wide planks of rustic oak flooring seem to meld into a courtyard, and muted blues embody the views on display.

"All of our work is about connecting the indoors with the outdoors and taking advantage of the natural landscape," Brooke says. "Especially in a place like California that has such amazing weather, you have to have that seamless connection."