01 Dec Pacific Jewel

A SHORT DRIVE FROM LOS ANGELES, Laguna Beach is one of many lovely stops along the California Coast. Artists, actors and celebrities are among the environmentally minded residents living in this stunning seaside town, its streets named for tangible bits of beauty: Agate, Pearl, Ruby and Diamond. Located in a small area called Woods Cove, a beachfront home sits on a narrow winding roadway. Looking as if it grew organically from the surrounding soil, this home is nothing if not beautiful.

The lines of the house are softly contemporary: simple, clean, easy to live with and easy to live in. The 1950s home was remodeled by Newport Beach architect Brion Jeannette. Jeannette created the plans that formed the bones and structure of this 7,200-square-foot dwelling, incorporating signature energy efficient principles throughout.

When visitors open the oversize front door and enter the small vestibule, they are met with glass doors and adjacent pieces of art. But what draws the eyes is the shimmering water beyond. “You get the unexpected power of that ocean view as soon as you walk in,” says Jeannette. “And you experience the spectacular beauty in every room. We sought to capture that magnificent view from as many places as possible.” 

Throughout the home’s three levels are soft furnishings in sandy colors, well-placed art and sculpture. Small points of detail — the texture of the stone walls, the design on the rugs and undulating silhouettes of bright glass bottles — all mimic the organic patterns found outdoors.

Interior designer Courtney Lawrence Ziething expertly designed and specified every interior detail, all with simple beauty in mind. “I chose a combination of textures and colors that would ensure that the ocean, sand and rocks felt like they were part of the interior,” she says, and on every side is a seamless reflection of those choices. Most of the furniture was custom made: Local artists were called upon for glass pieces, rugs, bedding and window treatments. The stone floor, walls and countertops have simple matte finishes. “I especially like the juxtaposition between the matte surfaces and the reflective qualities found in the stainless pieces and the glass … those feel like pieces of jewelry,” says Lawrence Ziething. Beyond that interior glimmer, the water glistens — nothing detracts from the views of the water. 

General contractor Chris Gallo, along with numerous craftsmen, completed the creative team. “I am personally involved in every job we do,” says Gallo. “And I enjoy the challenges that come from each project. I think the specific details add up to give you something phenomenal, and I love adding those touches.”

There is a wonderful flow to this house, from room to room, says the architect with a smile. “You want to kick off your shoes and walk around barefoot; that’s one of the most important features of this house — its style is clean and contemporary, with an aspect of comfort that is truly inviting.”

The architecture and design of this home appeal to all the senses. The ocean sounds are muted until you open one of the many doors leading outside. With doors open, sounds alternate between soft whispers and fantastic crashes as the waves hit both the sand and the many rocks rising from the cove. “There is something definitely special that comes with the sound of the waves and the smells that come from the ocean,” says Lawrence Ziething. 

In room after room, the outdoors is joyously brought inside. “What we were trying to do was create a space that beckons you to stay, linger and return, and to give you an environment of peace,” says Jeannette.

Easy and comfortable yet quietly elegant; this home is a true jewel ensconced in the perfect setting. This Woods Cove house would beckon anyone home.