A Sonoma Escape:
Calm, Collected, and Connected to Nature
Tucked into the rolling hills of Sonoma’s wine country, this vacation home offered more than just a break from city life—it became a place to breathe. Designed by Rachel Blindauer, the interiors reflect the restorative qualities of the land itself: layered neutrals, tactile materials, and views that remain uninterrupted.
The design brief was simple: craft a tranquil retreat that felt personal, but never precious. Rachel responded with a palette rooted in earth tones, drawing directly from the surrounding trees, vineyards, and distant mountain haze. The architecture—modern and streamlined—was softened through natural materials and curated furniture that honored both form and feeling.
Living with the Landscape
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of the countryside, so Rachel designed the interiors to defer gracefully to the outdoors. In the living room, soft gray furnishings blend into the shadows of surrounding trees, while a large-scale painting in green and blue quietly extends the view inward. Cushions in nature-inspired tones complete the gesture, creating continuity between inside and out.
In the adjacent family room, comfort took center stage. A deep, plush sectional grounds the space, accented by geometric rugs and sculptural hex tables. The hero piece: an emerald green reading chair with slim brass legs—set intentionally beside a window for afternoon escapes into a book or the horizon.
Dining as Gathering
The dining area was conceived for both family dinners and impromptu tastings with friends. A solid wood table anchors the room, its generous scale balanced by streamlined chairs and a modern chandelier that plays with shadow and light. A more intimate breakfast nook nearby, outfitted in white and brass, keeps mornings light and casual.
Outdoors, a minimal dining arrangement ensures the view remains the focal point. The deck, expansive but restrained, seamlessly supports both family downtime and elevated entertaining.
Private Spaces, Personally Tuned
In the primary suite, dark neutrals lend the room a sense of quiet and refinement. Ebony wood tones, gray bedside tables with brass hardware, and a monochrome bench offer sculptural rhythm, while still inviting rest.
By contrast, the children’s room embraces warmth and whimsy. Pale woods and off-whites set the tone, while color is introduced through easily updated accents: roman shades, art, and playful textiles that evolve with age and personality.
Design that Lets You Exhale
Rather than compete with the beauty outside, the interiors were designed to support it. With a blend of contemporary and mid-century modern elements, the space maintains architectural integrity while delivering softness where it counts. Each room reflects a belief central to Rachel Blindauer’s approach: thoughtful design makes a home feel both rooted and renewing.
This Sonoma Escape isn’t just a second home. It’s a reintroduction to what matters—calm, connection, and the kind of quiet luxury that never shouts.
