Transforming a 13,000-Square-Foot Irvine Residence: A Design Success Story with Huma Sulaiman

Renowned designer Huma Sulaiman takes on the challenge of transforming a 13,000-square-foot residence in Irvine’s Shady Canyon community for the growing family of Jessica and Ali Omid. With two toddlers and a baby on the way, the Omids needed a designer who could work quickly and create a family-friendly yet stylish space.

Sulaiman and her Laguna Beach-based design firm rose to the occasion, completing the top-to-bottom transformation in just eight months. The project included multiple bathrooms, two kitchens, two living and dining areas, a primary suite with his and hers bathrooms and closets, three kids’ rooms, and a basement-level lounge and theater. Despite the tight timeline, Sulaiman was able to incorporate custom details in each room to meet the family’s needs.

One of the key challenges of the project was reimagining the travertine columns found throughout the first floor. Structural and timing constraints prevented their removal, so Sulaiman worked with Kamp Studios to create a fluted plaster design to cover the existing travertine, modernizing the interiors while nodding to the Mediterranean exterior.

In addition to creating a safe environment for the children, Sulaiman also focused on personalized storage solutions, such as the kitchen’s 15-foot-long island and the quartzite vanities in the primary bathrooms. The result is a space that seamlessly blends high design with family functionality.

Reflecting on the finished project, Jessica Omid expressed gratitude for Sulaiman’s work, stating, “That process was a lot! I [need to] call Huma and take her out to thank her!” However, Sulaiman humbly credits the success of the project to the Omids’ trust and willingness to let her take the lead.

Overall, the Omid residence in Shady Canyon stands as a testament to Sulaiman’s design expertise and ability to tackle even the most challenging projects with grace and style.