11 Stylish California Room Design Ideas for Your Next Remodel

If you’re looking to blend the beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of your indoors, then a California room might just be the right setup for you. It’s a design choice that let you enjoy fresh air and sunshine without leaving the comfort of your home.  

California Room remodeling became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic as many homeowners spent most of their time inside. As a result, many are now eager to spend some time outdoors in the comfort of their own homes and even do some remote work from a lovely outdoor space setup.

Whether you’re after a cozy family retreat or a stylish entertaining area, here are 11 California room design ideas to inspire you.

What is a California Room?

A California Room is an elevated indoor-outdoor living space that incorporates an open room, seamlessly blending your indoor comforts with nature. Unlike regular outdoor patios, these spaces often feature partial coverings, weather-resistant furniture, and design elements that make them feel like an extension of your living room. With these rooms, you can have coffee while basking in the sun or gather with friends under the stars.

11 California Room Design Ideas

Before embarking on remodeling your California Room, there are a few things to consider. These include location, size, shape, function, and budget.

Now, with the design ideas, there are many different styles to choose from, but we’re confident those on our list will inspire you.

1. Moroccan Villa Style

Bring the vibrancy of Morocco right to your backyard. This Mediterranean aesthetic features bold, colorful tiles, richly textured pillows, and lanterns that cast a warm glow. Adding a few low sofas and ornate pottery can make the room feel exotic yet inviting. This style is perfect if you love a splash of color and intricate details that pop.

2. Mountain Rock Style

If you enjoy the outdoors, try incorporating nature’s elements into your California Room design. Using natural stone or rock walls, warm wood accents, and earthy tones, this style feels like an escape into the mountains. Pair it with a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, and you’ve got a cozy retreat perfect for chilly evenings. It also doesn’t hurt to include a BBQ area or full kitchen to entertain guests on a nice sunny day.

3. Horizontal Emphasis

This style comes with low-profile furniture and expansive views to create a feeling of endless space. Think of wide sofas, low coffee tables, and even a horizontal garden wall. By keeping everything closer to the ground, the room naturally feels larger and more open, making it ideal for small spaces with considerable potential.

4. Primary Bedroom Escape

Ever wanted a private outdoor area just steps away from your bedroom? This idea transforms your California room into a serene getaway attached to your primary bedroom. Make it your sweet escape from your master suite with a comfy daybed, gentle lighting, and soft curtains for a relaxed vibe that’s all about privacy. It’s the perfect spot for unwinding, meditating, or enjoying a good book.

5. Go Roofless

Some of us like direct sunshine more than others, and if this sounds like you, we suggest adding a roofless option. Add some sturdy furniture that can withstand the elements, and you’re set. This setup gives you an open, airy feel, perfect for sunbathing by day and stargazing by night.

Include a welcoming BBQ area and dining seating with a patio cover that flows into a roofless space to enjoy sunlight. If you are looking to go large with the design, we suggest even adding a waterfall or pond to really create that serene atmosphere.

6. Big Outdoor Family Room

Suppose you have a big family or love hosting large gatherings. Why not make your California room the ultimate outdoor family space? With plenty of seating, durable materials, and even a big dining table, this room is built for everyone.

Consider a sectional sofa with lots of throw pillows or a long picnic-style table to bring people together. You can add a fireplace to this space for slightly chillier nights. Also, include a spacious floor room for fun activities and a seating area for the adults to enjoy!

7. Eclectic Escape

For those who love a mix of styles, the Eclectic Escape is a California room idea that lets you combine all your favorite decor pieces. This is where your choices in materials and finishes will be super fun. Mix boho with modern, or add vintage finds next to sleek finishes. This style lets you showcase your personality by blending colors, textures, and patterns in a fun, unexpected way.

8. Brick Beauty

Brick is a great outdoor material for remodeling a California Room because of its durability and natural textured appearance. Consider adding brick walls or brick flooring for a cozy, rustic look. The natural texture of brick creates an earthy feel, and it pairs beautifully with soft furnishings and plants. It’s a timeless style that’s both inviting and durable.

9. Tuscan Courtyard

Inspired by the elegance of Italy, the Tuscan Courtyard style brings European flair to your California room. Think stone or stucco walls, wrought iron accents, and lush greenery like olive trees or lavender. This setup feels like you’re in a Mediterranean villa, perfect for those who want a sophisticated yet natural look.

10. Carman Bay Cottage

If you prefer a beachside relaxation, try the Carman Bay Cottage style. With light woods, white accents, and seaside decor, this style brings the coast to you. It includes an open seating area near a fire pit. Add wicker chairs, blue and white cushions, and seashell decorations.

11. Spanish Oaks

Lastly, the Spanish Oaks style combines terracotta, wood beams, and lush greenery for a classic California room idea. Inspired by Spanish-style homes, this room might feature decorative tiles, hanging plants, and wrought iron touches. 

It’s a warm, welcoming design that’s perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of rustic charm to their space. This is perfect for a minimalistic home with an open floor plan. The cool colors and geometric forms also stand out in this design.

Lighting for Evening Ambiance

No California room is complete without the right lighting to keep things cozy after sunset. Adding string lights, lanterns, and wall sconces can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. And don’t forget to choose dimmable options so you can adjust the lighting for anything from dinner parties to relaxed movie nights.

There are so many different styles to choose from when designing your California Room, but the more inspiration you pull, the better. The secret to a great design is to bring the design of your interior and let it flow to the exterior so you can enjoy more of your square footage at your leisure.

When you are ready to remodel your California Room, contact us at (949) 861-3400 and we will schedule your complimentary design consultation.