Residential Projects United States

A Modern Transformation: San Carlos by Cathie Hong Interiors

Mattingly Thaler Architecture Dimensional Construction Cathie Hong Interiors

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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Nestled in the wooded serenity of San Carlos, this mid-century gem underwent a stunning transformation by Cathie Hong Interiors in collaboration with Mattingly Thaler Architecture and Dimensional Construction. The result is a thoughtful blend of modern design and timeless materials, particularly evident in the reimagined primary bathroom.

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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Thoughtful Material Selection

The clients’ preference for high-quality, natural materials guided every design decision in the home. They gravitated toward a neutral palette with occasional accents of blue and terracotta, allowing the beauty of the finishes to take centre stage. This ethos is reflected in the bathroom’s combination of ceramic tile, soft concrete, and wood. The result is a space that feels cohesive and timeless.

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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Breathing New Life into the Primary Suite

The client’s vision for the home emphasised modernising original mid-century spaces while maintaining their inherent character. In the primary bathroom, this was achieved by retaining the existing footprint while making impactful changes to the layout and design. By removing a dropped ceiling and opening up the shower, the design team created a light, airy space that feels both expansive and inviting. Warm, variegated ceramic tiles from Heath Ceramics wrap the room, adding texture and warmth that harmonise beautifully with the home’s natural surroundings.

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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At the centrepiece of the space sits Nood Co’s Vesl Rectangle Basin in Sky Grey, selected for its smooth concrete finish and understated elegance. "The Nood sink added one more colour and material to the overall bathroom palette without clashing with or overwhelming the space," Cathie explains. Paired with a custom white oak vanity and satin brass fixtures, the basin introduces a contemporary note that elevates the bathroom’s tranquil aesthetic.

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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Cathie highlights the careful balance the basin brings to the design: "They [the clients

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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Why Nood Co?

Cathie Hong Interiors has used various concrete basins in past projects, but Nood Co remains a favourite for its quality and versatility. "Nood consistently produces the highest quality basins with a smooth, even finish and excellent craftsmanship," Cathie shares. She also appreciates the brand’s ability to offer organic shapes and soft colours that align seamlessly with her firm’s designs. In this project, the Sky Grey finish of the Vesl Basin was the perfect choice to echo the serene, natural tones of the bathroom.

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Beyond the Bathroom

The transformation of the San Carlos home extended far beyond the primary bathroom. The project also included converting an unfinished basement into a fully functional lower level with a mudroom, family room, and guest suite, as well as updating the exterior with Shou Sugi Ban charred siding and a custom awning. These thoughtful enhancements breathe new life into the mid-century property, blending its original charm with contemporary functionality.

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A Testament to Design

The San Carlos primary bathroom, with its thoughtful material selection and cohesive design, reflects the successful collaboration between Cathie Hong Interiors, Mattingly Thaler Architecture, and Dimensional Construction. It is a space that embodies elegance, functionality, and timeless style, perfectly tailored to the client’s vision.

San Carlos | Design by Cathie Hong Interiors | Architecture by Mattingly Thaler Architecture | Build by Dimensional Construction | Captured by Margaret Austin

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January 22, 2025

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A Modern Transformation: San Carlos by Cathie Hong Interiors