Seeing the Light

Today’s best Southern California homes are celebrations of simplicity, openness and, above all, light. Unlike the stark modern styles of years past, this new generation of design embraces spaces that are uncluttered but never cold. Comfort and calm are watchwords. What’s more, the pared-down aesthetic reflects the owner’s vision as much as the architect’s and interior design’s. And, as shown here, the look adds warmth to a range of homes, from the remodeled Spanish bungalow, ‘40s modern or ‘70s ranch to the custom contemporary. Let there be light.