When interior designer Gabrielle Santiago of Gabrielle Santiago Design started working on this California home, she knew she wanted to preserve its cool retro vibe, but also make it functional for the young family of five living in it. “The original design was reminiscent of the Brady Bunch aesthetic, so we preserved key elements from that era while integrating modern functionality,” Santiago says. “We ensured the space remained both fun and practical for their everyday lives.”
Alyssa Lizarraga; Design by Gabrielle Santiago Design
Case in point? The genius corkboard accent wall in the breakfast nook. Not only does it add texture to the space, but it also encourages flexibility and creativity, Santiago says. “When I first entered this client’s home, I was immediately charmed by the abundance of children’s artwork displayed throughout the space,” she explains. She created this area with the little ones in mind. “I wanted to design a space that would draw them in, a place where they’d want to sit.”
Her penchant for working with unique materials lead her to choosing cork for the wall, which would allow the kids to tack on their masterpieces in endless configurations. It keeps all of the kids’ artwork proudly displayed—and out of the way, not scattered chaotically throughout the home. “It doesn’t just reduce clutter, it also adds a personal, ever-evolving touch to the space,” she says.
Alyssa Lizarraga; Design by Gabrielle Santiago Design
Best of all? You can totally recreate something like this yourself! “It just requires a bit of patience,” Santiago says. According to the designer, the rolls of cork took a couple of weeks to source, but installation only took about a day or so (though this will depend on the size of your space). It’s applied similarly to traditional wallpaper, so you’ll need to be a little meticulous when aligning the seams and gluing the material down.
If you’re curious about what it’s like to maintain the cork accent wall, Santiago assures us it’s actually incredibly easy, adding that the cork doesn’t attract dirt, but it can get dusty like any surface in a home. “Maintenance is minimal,” she says. “A quick vacuum or wipe-down every now and then is usually all it takes.” Speaking our language!
