In July 2013, Mark Hermogeno, principal of Hermogeno Designs — an award-winning interior design firm in Los Angeles, CA — was commissioned to renovate a longtime friend’s 3,000-square-foot craftsman home in Hollywood, CA. The layout of the 1920s-style house was an original mix of different rooms and spaces that the family found difficult to navigate on both a daily basis and during family gatherings. The ultimate goal was to modernize the home, while retaining the original architecture and spirit of the craftsman era.

For the kitchen’s perimeter countertops, Caesarstone Lagos Blue with an eased edge was chosen, while both island countertops as well as the backsplash over the range features Caesarstone London Grey, also with an eased edge. Complementing the quartz surfacing countertops is a porcelain tile floor.

In the master bathroom, London Grey was also used for the vanity countertop and shower bench.  The children’s bathroom features Carrara marble countertops, which was prefabricated and supplied with the master bathroom vanity from Virtu USA in Garden Grove, CA.

All other materials for the interior were fabricated and installed by Stone Master LLC in Tarzana, CA.

“Our overall scheme was based on the colors — gray, blue, white, beige, tan — and texture,” said Hermogeno. “The clients did not want many, if any, polished surfaces. The Caesarstone was selected because the homeowners really wanted low-maintenance surfaces, especially in the kitchen, and wanted to steer away from granite.”

Although the close relationship between the client and designer made the process relatively seamless, there were some obstacles along the way. “The biggest challenge arose during the installation of the Caesarstone and the marble fireplace hearth, which occurred while I was on vacation,” said Hermogeno. “This was the first time ever that I was not present for the stone installation, so I was a bit worried. Before my departure, I reviewed the fabrication and installation information in detail several times with both the fabricator and the general contractor. Despite the time differences, we were in constant communication via phone, text and email. Upon my arrival after vacation, I was completely happy with the outcome.”

The homeowners were also ecstatic upon the home’s completion. As a result, the space has been showcased to Hermogeno’s new and prospective customers.

“Every time I speak to the clients, they tell me how much they and everyone that comes to their home loves the end result,” said Hermogeno. “The husband just told me the other day how much he enjoys coming home.”