PROJECT REVEAL: MOOD, MOVEMENT & MAGIC, A BOLD MEDITATION LOUNGE MAKEOVER

Not every design story begins with a glamorous blueprint—and this one definitely didn’t. This project started as a bare-bones, converted balcony that was once used as a home gym. Functional? Well, it used to be. Fabulous? Not really. But what it did have was potential—and a breathtaking view that stretches beyond the hills of Del Cerro all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The minute my client, Ann, mentioned that she wanted this space to be a Meditation and Movement Lounge, I knew we could turn it into something magical.

Enter our protagonist: Ann Golumbuk—abstract artist, creative soul, and total powerhouse client-turned-friend. This wasn’t your typical client experience. Ann didn’t just commission a space—she co-created it. We were in the trenches together... well, she was even more in it—living in the space, creating art, and managing the renovation process like an absolute boss. She juggled paint fumes and creative deadlines with a clipboard in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, checking boxes and staying laser-focused on every detail.

Our creative rhythms couldn’t be more different—me, the visual thinker who lives for renderings and mood boards; Ann, the checklist queen with unshakable focus—but together? We're unstoppable.

From Workout Zone to Wellness Retreat

The first major move was to fully enclose the space and install a stackable sliding door. It was important to preserve that incredible view, while making the room functional and protected from the elements. Now, the space opens up to fresh air when the vibe calls for it, and closes off into a private retreat when it's time to go inward. Light filters in, but distraction stays out. That’s the kind of design harmony we love.

Then came the real fun: creating the vibe. We chose a white-on-white palette as the foundation, letting the natural light and view take center stage while creating a sense of calm and stillness. But you know me—neutral is never boring in my world. We layered in curated color moments in the form of accent pieces, artwork, and soulful styling to give it that signature Rachel Moriarty Interiors depth.

Behind the Glam: The Process in Progress

Of course, no reveal is complete without honoring the journey. Here’s a peek behind the curtain—our very first site meeting in this space. Hard to believe, but behind those rough stucco walls and dim corners was the vision for what would soon become the ultimate meditation and movement lounge. At this stage, it was all imagination and faith—but we could already feel the magic taking shape.

Here’s a look at the space in its former life. Ann, who once worked as a personal trainer, used this area to meet with clients and stay active. As her art career has taken center stage, her movement practice has shifted to walking, cycling, and yoga. It’s a beautiful reminder that our homes are living, breathing spaces—constantly evolving to reflect who we are, where we’ve been, and what we need in this season of life.

This interior space plan outlines the layout for large furniture placement along with key design elements—including the paint color, new flooring selection, and the addition of a stackable sliding door to maximize the view and indoor-outdoor flow.

This mood board captures the full design story—highlighting all the key elements along with the layered personality that comes through in color and pattern. An orange and cream ikat wool rug anchors the palette, complemented by curated pillows, a bold orange accent chair, and six original artworks by Ann that bring energy, emotion, and soul to the space.

And we can’t forget the unsung heroes—the magical humans behind the scenes who make the vision a reality. Ann’s longtime friend David served as the General Contractor, and let me tell you, he was a total dream to work with. His subs brought great energy, skill, and professionalism, making the entire process not just seamless, but genuinely enjoyable. It takes a village, and this one showed up with tools and good vibes.

From Design Moodboard to Real Life

Let’s break down what’s really happening in this room, because every piece plays a part in the bigger story. First off, the burnt orange accent chair is a mood all on it's own. Inspired by the orange glow of a sunset, it offers the perfect perch for sipping tea, meditating, or journaling while watching the sun dip into the horizon.

A classical sculpture—yes, she’s casually fabulous—adds an old-world elegance that contrasts beautifully with the modern layers in the room. Ann brought her in from her personal collection, and it’s exactly the kind of unexpected juxtaposition we live for. Classic meets contemporary—and somehow, it just works.

We customized a sculptural cabinet that’s more than just eye candy—it hides all of Ann’s wellness essentials like yoga mats and light weights, turning this space into a true multifunctional retreat. Shut the doors and voilà—it’s a chic sitting room. Open it up, and it’s time to flow.

Then come the pillows and textiles, because no soulful space is complete without that tactile, cozy layer. We pulled in rich jewel tones—deep greens, blues, and mustard—with color-blocked accents that keep things modern but playful.

Ann gave new life to a large existing mirror by wrapping the frame in faux fur—a bold, textural twist. We placed it strategically to reflect the rooms view, doubling the impact and adding a little drama to the serenity.

A golden glass Buddha, a vintage-inspired vase, and even a few well-placed sage smudge sticks round out the styling to keep things spiritually grounded without being too literal.

And, of course, Ann’s own abstract artwork hangs proudly throughout, giving the room that expressive energy that only she could bring.

Can we just take a moment?! Ann isn’t just in the space—she is the space. Watching her lounge on that dreamy new sectional, surrounded by her own artwork, is pure poetry in motion. It’s like the room was waiting for her all along. She doesn’t just live with the art—she becomes part of it. Iconic.

A Room Designed to Reflect and Recharge

This meditation room isn’t just a pretty space—it’s a physical manifestation of what happens when intentional design, creative trust, and bold self-expression come together. It reflects Ann’s essence as much as it reflects our collaboration. It’s peaceful, powerful, and unapologetically personal.

At Rachel Moriarty Interiors, we don’t just design rooms—we design vibes. We create spaces that hold you, hype you, and grow with you. Whether you're hosting guests, flowing through your sun salutations, or simply soaking in the view with your coffee (or cocktail), this room was built to rise to the moment.

And yes, I absolutely know a great photo op when I see one—this corner, with that view? Instant main character energy.

Have a space that feels like an afterthought? Let’s turn it into a soulful sanctuary that supports who you are—and who you’re becoming.

📍 Serving Del Cerro, La Jolla, Mission Hills, and color-loving dreamers across San Diego County.