This sweet shingle house near the coast, was a temporary home for our family while we
remodeled another home. Balboa Island, Junior lifeguards, and the beach were within biking distance. Perhaps the most interesting thing about these photos, is that they were taken more than 15 years ago. It’s a shocking realization of how time flies. Yet it is also a reminder about the longevity of designing in a classic style. Although there might be a couple of things I would do all these years later to bring it current…it is still pretty timeless.
This project had restrictions because this was a short-term house for us, so we needed to work with the bones of the house and limit construction. I also wanted the new pieces purchased to have a place in the next home, at least as much as possible. You will see in future photos that the family room space was small and not large enough for our entire family when college siblings were home, so we needed the larger living room space to function as the TV lounge area for larger groups. So I fabricated a large down sofa, that could be added to later, and matching slipcovered wing chairs when they were moved to the next more permanent home. This is covered in the prettiest pale blue and white linen blend and paired with the decorative shelf above it, immediately makes you think of the seashore!
In the living room, on the large wall adjacent to the seating area, hangs a series of
antique Malabar Botanical drawings that seem to look good everywhere they live. Especially here, paired with the modern metal planter filled with hydrangeas. Outside the large sliding doors, is a patio and a pair of antique finials that were from a Mississippi plantation. They almost function as sculptures, framing the peaceful summer setting beyond.
In the dining room, I did not want to Dining space, I did not want to invest in an expensive dining table, I purchased this pottery barn picnic-style table that could later be used on a covered porch, or almost anywhere because it feels so casual and family- friendly. Again, a shell chandelier against the white woodwork feels fresh and beachy…even all these years later. The years go by so fast, rather than purchasing trendy, I happily suggest timeless!
This classic kitchen photo was also from our home more than 15 years ago! You can see by using classic finishes and colors, things look great all these years later. One of my favorite details is the glass door on the pantry closet because it functions like a casual China. Cabinet…showing off my dear Portmeirion dish collection. Textured raffia lighting pendants and seat covers add texture to an otherwise smooth surface space. The small adjoining family room off the kitchen felt disappointing before because it ended at a blank wall. By recycling oval windows from my other remodel, and building bookcases around them, I was able to add interest, functionality, and focus to the space. In addition to storage, a large TV hides behind the double cabinet doors. The morning light entering the space creates an enchanting place to sit and read within view of the herb garden and dining area beyond. Classic means timeless…. always a good way to design for the future!
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