Diane Keaton's fashion became famous largely because of its striking shapes - her home follows suit. Acclaimed interior designer Stephen Shadley designed her California home office in a converted breezeway, and it's defined by bold, eye-catching archways.
The actress's home office blends its outdoor history with colorful interior design. Photos show a long, tiled picnic table to be used as a desk at the center. Colorful decor from a bright painting to an oversized clock is spread across the space, giving it visual interest at every corner. Westchester-based Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein calls the space: 'a masterclass in blending architectural elegance with bold, eclectic decor.'
Clearly, the experts are enamored with the space. Jove Meyer, NYC-based interior designer gushes: 'I am obsessed with this Spanish-style home with these oversized arches, reminiscent of Diane Keaton's iconic fashion, slightly oversized and chic! The terracotta roof mixed with the round white stucco fountain in the middle and rot iron lighting overhead blends the round curves in small ways that speak beautifully to the large curves of the arches.'
The rhythm of the arched doorways are a huge part of what makes this design so visually appealing. 'The successive arched doorways create a rhythmic flow, drawing the eye through the space and framing each view with a sense of grandeur,' says Lichtenstein. 'These arches not only define the office's unique aesthetic but also enhance its connection between indoors and outdoors, offering the flexibility to either close the space off for privacy or leave it open to embrace the surrounding environment. The white walls serve as a pristine backdrop, allowing the arches and decor to take center stage, while the oversized elements like the striking desk, enormous pot, and giant round clock add drama and intrigue.'
Keaton's converted breezeway is also effective because there is more than one focal point creating emphasis in the interior design. In a single glance, the eye is drawn all across the room. 'The oversized clock and large terracotta pot sitting on the table add even more roundness to the space. Your eye has so many places to travel, but the donkeys pull you in, followed by the statues around the fountain, as they are the pops of color in the neutral earthy space,' Meyer tells Homes & Gardens.
The space goes beyond aesthetics: it is special because it is just as wonderful to live in as it is to look at. Meyer says: 'I would love to work in this office; you can have it open with fresh air or close the large doors. The natural light that pours in and the sound of the fountain seem like a picturesque place to work on a project, get some writing done, or take a meeting. I love how this space could also be used as a game room; it is a multi-functional space, which I love!'
Shop The Spanish-Style Home Office Edit
This earthy candleholder is perfect for bringing a warm, Spanish touch to your home
This woven frame is at once rustic and sophisticated
This artisan quality planter has an organic shape and feel to add some texture and interest to any room
If you hope to recreate the Spainifornia look in your own home, the best place to starty is by looking at how you can incorporate new lines into your space. Lichtenstein advises: 'One of the most captivating aspects of this office is the interplay of shapes—each piece of decor, from the statues to the light fixtures, contributes to a harmonious yet visually dynamic environment. The final arch, framing a colorful artwork, serves as a focal point that ties the entire room together, leaving a lasting impression of beauty and creativity.' Though the combination of large and small details, arches and lines, it's possible to build something similar in any space.
Diane Keaton's home is evidence of what can happen when you combine beautiful, well-planned design with gorgeous architectural features. It's truly a masterpiece.
