This sustainable remodeled home in Stinson Beach sits like a precious seaside gem. Created by Susan Skornicka, it’s polished yet beautifully natural, with a harmonious connection to the landscape and stunning views at every turn. This home captures what makes Stinson Beach so beloved: a sense of community, artistry, and connection to nature. Photographers Adam Potts and Sophia Studio captured the serene shots below.
From Susan Skornicka…The goal was simple yet ambitious: to make every corner of this Stinson Beach home—inside and out—thoughtfully integrated and equally special. Our design team wanted the experience of the home to begin the moment one steps off the street, creating a sense of welcome and vibrancy that continues all the way to the ocean. From the first glance, the home offers a beautiful and inviting introduction that carries effortlessly through its light-filled interiors and out to the shoreline beyond.
Before the remodel, the home was a relic of the 1970s—complete with plywood cabinets, Formica countertops, single-pane windows and doors, and a wood-burning fireplace. The homeowners worked closely with the design team to transform the home into a reflection of serenity—one that celebrates both art and nature in equal measure. They were fortunate to be able to move into the house during the pandemic and found comfort and healing in the surrounding beauty of Stinson Beach.
This was a deeply collaborative process. The homeowners, avid art lovers, enjoy exploring new artists and approaches. Many of the artworks displayed throughout the home are by friends and local discoveries, adding personal meaning to each space. A carved Alaskan wood sculpture, White Moon II by Joe Brubaker, anchors the living room, its forms echoing the movement of waves. Additional pieces by Plamen Tanev, Jeff Rutchik, and Carole Pierce complement the serene, coastal atmosphere.
At just 1,428 square feet, the home is modest in size but rich in character. Among Stinson’s newer, larger builds, it stands out as refreshingly approachable. The home feels larger than its footprint thanks to a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living. Outdoor spaces on both the mountain and beach sides are designed with the same care and comfort as the interior—creating a fluid transition that blurs the line between house and landscape.
Outdoors, every space was designed with purpose. From relaxed lounging areas to intimate gathering spots, each corner invites connection with nature. The limestone patios and planter box caps from Eco Outdoor were chosen to mirror the hue of the beach sand. Native and low-water plants thrive effortlessly, supporting pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. The materials palette—clear Western red cedar cladding, ledgestone walls, and locally sourced furnishings—ties the design back to its Northern California roots.
Discover the talent behind the story… Interior & Landscape Design: Susan Skornicka · Photography: Adam Potts and Sophia Studio · Builder: Gubbins Building Co. · Custom Cabinetry: Mitchel Berman Cabinetmakers · Furniture, Rug & Textile Partner: SummerHouse Mill Valley
