The small Oceanside beach cottage was a little house that had been neglected for years. The owners had abandoned it and it was left to the elements. When it was put up for sale it was purchased via an online auction. The assumed plan was that it was a “tear down” and that the new owners would build something bigger and modern. The couple, who lived out of state at the time, came to see the home, and fell in love with its charm. So they came up with a plan to restore the home to its previous glory, while making it a place for family and friends to come and enjoy what would become a comfortable quirky cottage.
The transformation of the small beach cottage was nothing short of miraculous. The exterior of the home was painted in bright, cheerful blues. The eaves and posts were painted white with turquoise trim. The side yard was fitted with a carport and patio covers, which added to the charm of the home. The owners chose to keep the original design of the home intact, and they added their own unique touches, such as a beautiful trellis for climbing tea roses and a playful path of gray pavers leading to an inset sea turtle. Indoor to outdoor seating areas and a bar area for mixing that perfect beach side libation. A barbecue to grill up those burgers and dogs. Speaking of dogs, they also added a dog run on the side of the house for those friends with four legs to get out and enjoy the sights and smells.
Inside the small Oceanside beach cottage, the owners continued their eclectic style. The walls were painted shades of yellow, blue, and white. The furniture was a mix of vintage and modern pieces, incorporating unique pieces such as a church pew used as bench. The kitchen inspiration was taken from a 48″ Viking Range that the couple already had. The blue Viking range drove the blue colors of the kitchen back-splash’s handcrafted tile. That turquoise color led to the glass mosaic backsplash tile over the range. The owners chose soapstone as a countertop for the small island and they chose a lively granite countertop at the range. The ecletic hardware was driven by the homeowners desire to have a surprise at every turn. The bath materials also reflected the blue palette and they were inspired by the close-by crashing waves. The owners also installed new lighting fixtures, and they replaced the hopelessly damaged oak wood flooring with a new warm wood floor.
The carports and patio covers were a wonderful addition to the small beach cottage, creating an outdoor living space that was perfect for entertaining guests or just relaxing with a book. The owners added comfortable outdoor furniture, including a hammock, and strung lights around the perimeter of the patio. Two surfboards turned into extra large door handles. They added a water feature and a spa, with the carports and patio covers providing protection from the sun and rain.
Overall, the transformation of the Oceanside beach cottage was a true labor of love. The owners and the designer and the contractors worked tirelessly to preserve the historical significance of the home, while also creating a beautiful and eclectic space that reflected the owners delightful personalities. The addition of carports and patio covers extended the limited indoor living space. This small beach cottage was no longer a neglected house; it was a vibrant, welcoming home that brought joy and inspiration to all who visited.
