Natalie Kraiem’s Oakhurst vacation home has a sophisticated, South-of-France aesthetic. “It’s a Mediterranean-inspired residence designed to reflect the elegance of classic European resort architecture,” she says. Kraiem, of Brooklyn-based Natalie Kraiem Interiors, envisioned the house as a welcoming hub. “It was conceived as a dream summer retreat inspired by my family’s lifestyle. It functions as both a vacation home and a gathering place for extended family and friends.”
“Key features include a mansard roof, arched windows, a cream stucco façade, a grand columned entry,” designer and homeowner Natalie Kraiem says of the home’s architecture. “These elements give the home a sense of permanence and old-world sophistication.” Photo: Mark Roskams
Because this home was designed to be a summer getaway spot, Kraiem placed a great deal of focus on the exterior environment. “Outdoor living is central to how we experience this home,” she says. “The exterior was designed to function as the primary entertaining area of the home.”
With that in mind, Kraiem included a cabana, pool, covered dining and living areas and multiple seating zones in the backyard plan. “These amenities support relaxation and entertaining and transform the backyard into a private, resort-like setting,” she says.
The designer anticipated her guests’ needs. “We incorporated as many lounge areas as possible around the pool and added ample seating for entertaining. The shaded outdoor seating area, complete with a large television, has become one of our favorite gathering spots.” Kraiem also ensured that the exterior areas would help minimize interior wear-and-tear. “An outdoor cabana with a kitchen allows us to host outside without compromising the interiors,” she says. “We even included a full outdoor bathroom.”
Ample outdoor seating accommodates the family’s frequent summer gatherings. Photo: Mark Roskams
Each element of the backyard space was chosen to promote togetherness and relaxation. “The deep rear porch shades expansive dining and lounge areas, creating comfortable outdoor rooms,” Kraiem says.
The tranquil effect of the hardscape is enhanced by flora chosen for balance and proportion. “The landscape was designed to echo the home’s symmetry and formality while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere,” Kraiem explains. “Structured greenery frames the architecture, while layered plantings soften the overall composition. The result is an outdoor environment that feels intentional, elegant, and naturally connected to the home.”
The interior displays the same understated elegance as the exterior. Kraiem describes the decor as “resort-style modern French classicism. The aesthetic blends classical architecture, refined European detailing, and coastal elegance, creating a space that feels timeless, gracious and inviting.”
In the family room, “the fireplace surround adds subtle movement and depth while maintaining the serene palette,” according to owner and designer Natalie Kraiem. Photo: Mark Roskams
“The kitchen features a sophisticated mix of white-painted and stained-oak cabinetry,” Kraiem says, “which adds warmth, dimension and visual balance.” Photo: Mark Roskams
Decorative details juxtapose linear components with curved elements. For example, the squares on the coffered ceiling in the living room are balanced by the curves of a window. The straight edges of the tiered fireplace surround in the family room are tempered by the soft curves of the seating.
Throughout the home, neutral shades and wood tones create an understated, organic feel. “The palette is rooted in the soft, sun-washed tones of the French Riviera,” Kraiem says. “Creams, warm whites and varying shades of blue reflect the surrounding light and evoke a sense of calm luxury.”
The living room features an assortment of millwork on the walls and ceiling. “The interiors were designed to reinforce the home’s strong architectural presence,” Kraiem says. “Layered millwork, curated sightlines, and carefully scaled furnishings allow the architecture to remain the star, while interior details enhance its grandeur.” Photo: Mark Roskams
Though it features all the accoutrements of a refined resort, this residence is also practical. “Because this is a home meant for active family life, comfort and durability were just as important as beauty,” Kraiem notes. “We selected furnishings that feel luxurious yet relaxed, and finishes that are resilient and low-maintenance. Performance fabrics, tailored silhouettes and thoughtful layouts ensure that the home remains elegant while accommodating children, guests and everyday living.”
That deft mixture of aesthetics and functionality makes this a haven for Kraiem and her family. “I love the sense of harmony throughout the entire property. It truly reflects my design philosophy and my family’s lifestyle.”
