
Inside Kerry Washington’s Chic Los Angeles Home: A Style Guide
Okay, let’s be real. I’ve always admired Kerry Washington’s red carpet looks. The poise, the elegance, the sheer star power! But I had *no idea* her home radiated the same sophisticated vibe until I stumbled upon a few glimpses online. And let me tell you, it’s more than just a beautiful space; it’s a masterclass in blending high-end design with genuine comfort and family-friendly functionality. Seriously, I’m obsessed and ready to dissect every gorgeous detail with you.
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ToggleForget sterile celebrity mansions; Kerry Washington’s Los Angeles home feels like a genuine reflection of her personality – warm, inviting, and impeccably stylish. We’re talking carefully curated art, cozy textures, and a color palette that’s both calming and inspiring. I’m itching to uncover all the secrets behind her design choices, from the furniture selection to the artful placement of accessories. Prepare to be inspired to revamp your own space, even if you’re on a *slightly* smaller budget than Olivia Pope herself!
Decoding the Design: Key Elements of Kerry’s Home
Kerry Washington’s home isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that feels both luxurious and livable. The genius lies in the subtle details – the way natural light is maximized, the clever use of texture, and the unexpected pops of color that add personality. Think sophisticated neutrals punctuated by vibrant artwork and plush fabrics that beg to be touched. I’m particularly drawn to the way she mixes vintage pieces with modern designs, creating a layered and unique aesthetic that avoids feeling overly trendy.
The overall vibe is definitely “California cool” with a touch of Hollywood glamour. You can see the influence of the architecture of Los Angeles woven throughout the design. Large windows frame the natural landscape, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Natural materials like wood and stone add warmth and grounding to the space, while strategically placed mirrors amplify the light and create a sense of spaciousness. It’s a truly harmonious blend of style and functionality.
The Power of a Neutral Palette: Kerry’s Color Story
One of the key elements that ties Kerry’s home together is her smart use of a neutral color palette. Think warm grays, creamy whites, and subtle beiges that create a calm and sophisticated backdrop for bolder accent pieces. This approach allows her artwork and furniture to really shine without feeling overwhelming. I think this is particularly important for those of us (myself included!) who tend to gravitate towards bright colors – sometimes, less is more when it comes to creating a truly serene space.
Don’t mistake “neutral” for boring! Kerry masterfully adds depth and interest through texture. Think linen sofas, velvet armchairs, and woven rugs that add tactile appeal and prevent the space from feeling flat. Even the walls are painted in subtly textured finishes that catch the light and create a sense of movement. It’s a subtle but incredibly effective way to elevate a neutral color scheme.
Bringing the Outdoors In: Nature’s Touch
Being in Los Angeles allows for a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors, and Kerry’s home perfectly embodies that concept. Large windows and sliding glass doors connect the living spaces to the garden and patio, creating a sense of openness and light. I love how she incorporates natural elements like plants, flowers, and even driftwood into her decor, further blurring the lines between the interior and exterior.
Consider incorporating elements of nature into your own home, even if you don’t have a sprawling garden. A few strategically placed houseplants, a vase of fresh flowers, or even a collection of seashells can instantly add life and vibrancy to any room. I’ve even seen people successfully bring small trees inside! Plus, studies have shown that bringing the outdoors in can improve your mood and reduce stress levels. It’s a win-win!
Steal Her Style: Decorating Tips Inspired by Kerry’s Home
Now for the fun part: how can *we* recreate some of Kerry Washington’s signature style in our own homes? It’s all about paying attention to detail, investing in quality pieces that you love, and not being afraid to experiment with your own personal touches. Remember, your home should be a reflection of *you* and your unique personality, not a carbon copy of someone else’s space.
Here are a few key takeaways I’ve gathered:
- Invest in timeless pieces: Choose furniture and decor items that will stand the test of time, both in terms of style and quality.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match: Combine vintage finds with modern designs to create a unique and eclectic look.
- Pay attention to lighting: Use a combination of natural and artificial light to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Add personal touches: Display artwork, photographs, and souvenirs that reflect your interests and passions.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Have fun with your decor and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Creating a Cozy Living Room: Texture and Comfort
The living room is often the heart of the home, and Kerry’s living room is no exception. The key to creating a cozy and inviting space is to layer different textures and incorporate comfortable seating options. Think plush sofas, velvet armchairs, and woven rugs that beg to be touched. I’m also a big fan of adding throw pillows and blankets in a variety of fabrics and patterns to create a sense of warmth and visual interest.
Pay attention to the scale and proportion of your furniture. Choose pieces that are appropriately sized for your space and arrange them in a way that encourages conversation and relaxation. For example, a large sectional sofa can be a great option for a family room, while a smaller loveseat and a pair of armchairs might be better suited for a more formal living room. And always, *always* test furniture before buying it. I learned that lesson the hard way!
The Art of Accessorizing: Adding Personality and Flair
Accessories are the finishing touches that can really make a home feel personal and unique. Kerry clearly has an eye for art, and her home is filled with carefully curated pieces that reflect her interests and passions. Don’t be afraid to collect items that you love over time. I feel like those naturally obtained trinkets have so much more value than perfectly decorated store bought sets.
Consider incorporating the following accessories into your decor:
- Artwork (paintings, prints, sculptures, etc.)
- Photographs (family portraits, travel photos, etc.)
- Books (coffee table books, novels, etc.)
- Plants (houseplants, flowers, etc.)
- Decorative objects (vases, bowls, candles, etc.)
Family-Friendly Design: Balancing Style and Functionality
One of the most impressive things about Kerry Washington’s home is that it manages to be both stylish and family-friendly. As a mom, she understands the importance of creating a space that’s not only beautiful but also practical and comfortable for her children. This means choosing durable materials, incorporating plenty of storage, and creating designated play areas that are both safe and engaging.
The beauty of family friendly design is that it doesn’t have to sacrifice style. There are plenty of ways to create a beautiful home that’s also practical and functional for your family. Let’s explore how she does this.
Feature | Material | Benefit | Example | My Recommendation |
---|---|---|---|---|
Upholstery | Performance Fabrics (e.g., Sunbrella, Crypton) | Stain-resistant, easy to clean, durable | Sofa, armchairs | Essential for high-traffic areas |
Flooring | Hardwood with durable finish, Area Rugs | Easy to clean, hides wear and tear, adds warmth | Living room, dining room | Consider a rug with a busy pattern to hide spills |
Furniture | Solid Wood, Metal Frames | Durable, long-lasting, can withstand heavy use | Coffee table, dining table | Choose furniture with rounded edges for safety |
Storage | Baskets, Cabinets, Shelving Units | Keeps clutter organized, provides easy access to toys and games | Playroom, family room | Label storage containers for easy identification |
Decor | Unbreakable materials (e.g., acrylic, metal) | Safe for children, reduces the risk of accidents | Vases, decorative objects | Opt for wall-mounted decor to keep it out of reach |
Wall Paint | Scrubbable Paint (e.g., eggshell or semi-gloss finish) | Easy to clean, resistant to stains and marks | All rooms | Choose a light color to brighten the space |
Smart Storage Solutions: Keeping Clutter at Bay
Let’s be honest, with kids, clutter is inevitable. But Kerry seems to have mastered the art of keeping things organized with smart storage solutions that are both functional and stylish. I’m talking built-in shelving units, hidden storage compartments in furniture, and plenty of baskets and bins for corralling toys and games. I’ve personally tried about 10,000 of those solutions and am still struggling, but I admire the effort!
Think about incorporating storage solutions that blend seamlessly with your decor. For example, a stylish ottoman with a hidden storage compartment can provide extra seating and storage in the living room, while a wall-mounted shelving unit can display books and decorative objects while keeping them out of reach of little hands. The key is to maximize every available space and create a system that works for your family’s needs.
Artful Touches: Showcasing Kerry’s Personality
What truly elevates Kerry Washington’s home is the sense of personality that shines through every detail. From the carefully curated artwork to the personal photographs and mementos, her home feels like a genuine reflection of her interests, passions, and values. It’s a reminder that our homes should be more than just pretty spaces; they should be a place where we feel comfortable, inspired, and connected to the people and things that matter most to us.
Kerry’s home showcases artwork with bold, colorful, abstract pieces. The pieces of art work also provide a bit of storytelling throughout her home. Now, what will your home showcase?

Curating a Gallery Wall: Telling Your Story Through Art
A gallery wall is a fantastic way to showcase your personality and interests through art. It’s a collection of framed artwork, photographs, and other mementos that are arranged together on a wall to create a visually interesting display. I think it allows your guests to see a personal view of who you are when they enter into your home.
When curating a gallery wall, don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles, sizes, and frames. The key is to create a cohesive composition that feels balanced and visually appealing. I also like the concept of keeping the frames matching to provide a cleaner and more minimalist feel.
Incorporating Personal Mementos: Memories on Display
Personal mementos are the little things that make a house feel like a home. These can be anything from family photographs and travel souvenirs to inherited heirlooms and handmade crafts. Displaying these items in a thoughtful and intentional way can add warmth, character, and a sense of history to your space.
Consider creating a dedicated display area for your personal mementos, such as a bookshelf, a side table, or even a small shelf. Arrange the items in a visually appealing way and don’t be afraid to tell the stories behind them. After all, it’s the memories and experiences that these objects represent that truly make them special. And that’s what will make your home so special too.
Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Timeless and sophisticated design
- Family-friendly functionality
- Artful use of color and texture
- Personalized with curated artwork and mementos
- Seamless indoor-outdoor living
- Cons:
- High-end design may be costly to replicate
- Requires careful planning and attention to detail
- Neutral palette may not appeal to everyone
- Maintaining a clutter-free space with children can be challenging
- Specific design choices might not suit all architectural styles
FAQs
What is Kerry Washington’s interior design style best described as?
- Her style blends California cool with Hollywood glamour, emphasizing sophisticated neutrals, curated art, and family-friendly functionality.
How does Kerry Washington balance style and functionality in her home?
- She chooses durable materials like performance fabrics and solid wood, incorporates smart storage solutions, and creates designated play areas for her children.
What are some key elements of Kerry Washington’s color palette?
- Her color palette features warm grays, creamy whites, and subtle beiges, punctuated by vibrant artwork and pops of color.
How can I create a cozy living room inspired by Kerry Washington?
- Layer different textures with plush sofas, velvet armchairs, and woven rugs. Add throw pillows and blankets in various fabrics and patterns for warmth.
Where can I find similar decor items to those in Kerry Washington’s home?
- Look for pieces at high-end furniture stores, vintage shops, and online retailers specializing in curated art and sophisticated home decor. For fabrics, explore options from reputable vendors like Kravet.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Kerry Washington’s home is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and the importance of creating a space that reflects your unique personality and values. While recreating her exact style might not be feasible (or even desirable) for everyone, we can all take inspiration from her approach to design and incorporate elements that resonate with our own tastes and lifestyles. I, personally, will be stealing a few of her ideas for my own backyard makeover project!
So, are you ready to infuse your home with a touch of Kerry Washington’s chic style? Start small, focus on the details, and don’t be afraid to experiment. And, if you are looking for a more personalized and unique touch, you can always reach out to me. Happy decorating, and remember – your home is your sanctuary, so make it a place that you love to be! Contact me today to help you bring your dream home to life!