ARTISTRY IN RESIDENCE

A SCULPTOR AND HIS WIFE WELCOME SHAPELY SILHOUETTES AND A SOOTHING PALETTE INTO THEIR LIGHT-FILLED CALIFORNIA HOME

- JODY GARLOCK

Artists have long been intrigued by natural light, some even considering it a necessity for creativity. Sculptor Richard Kopcho is no exception. When the former certified public accountant, who says he "stumbled" into sculpting while living in Europe, began house hunting in California's San Mateo County, he was drawn to homes that could offer the magical and soothing quality that light affords. Although the house he and his wife, Darcy, ended up purchasing needed updates, they could see its potential. Abundant windows ushered in light, some of which was artfully filtered through the leafy redwoods and coast live oaks that thrived on the property.

"We bought the house as much for the lighting and the yard as anything else," says Richard, whose creative expression extends to landscaping. "I was looking for a place that I knew would feel good for both of us." The home's feel-good quality was ultimately elevated after Darcy connected with interior designer Penny Drue Baird, who is known for her elegant blend of modern and classic aesthetics. Darcy had purchased two of Baird's design books, and about a month later, she called Baird and said, "I'm wondering why my homes don't look like the ones in your books."

Portrait "It's a 24/7 compulsion," homeowner Richard Kopcho says of the clay portraiture he sculpts in his studio. Living room Designer Penny Drue Baird divided the living room into two seating areas, each anchored by a tufted sofa. Previous pages A Steinway baby grand piano strikes an elegant silhouette in front of a bay window. Midcentury high-back wing chairs and a vintage coffee table offset the formality of the sofa and show the home's modern-with-traditional mix.