Soon after beginning my design career in the late 1980’s I created a short list of my favorite designer icons, many of whom I still admire today. Near the top of that list is AD legend John Cottrell, who happened to be the previous interior decorator of this charming seaside cottage and the talent I had the honor of following in this home’s next iteration. Located in the private enclave of Three Arch Bay in Laguna Beach, the home had been reimagined several times since its construction in the 1930’s. From the outset, our goal was to return the house to its beach cottage roots while infusing it with our client’s love of country style details. Much of the original paneling was saved or refurbished, and new millwork was milled to blend. We carefully designed or selected cabinetry, stone counters, handmade tiles, custom light fixtures, and European plumbing to blur the lines between old and new. Custom furnishings were combined with the client’s collection of Americana antiques and the fabric patterns were selected to further enhance the casual country feel. While I’m proud this charming beachside home turned out exactly as the clients wished it would, the best part is the friendship we developed through the process.