June 15th, 2010 in San Diego
Harold Pell, an over-the-top San Diego interior designer with a reputation to match, has a knack for incorporating unusual elements into his design schemes. How unusual exactly? Try area rugs made from recycled Barbie hair and crocodile-inspired tiles. Luckily, Brett Schaffter and his partner, Robert DeMars, knew just what they were getting into when they selected Pell to breathe life into their new downtown condo.
The pair had chosen two adjoining units in the Electra building partly because they were already attached to the downtown area, but mostly because their views of the Pacific Ocean, Point Loma, and Coronado were to die for. Pell’s job was to capitalize on the magnificent views by creating a bold design perfect for both entertaining and lounging.
Expansive windows in the living and dining room offer up a breathtaking backdrop of the city and glimpses of the water beyond. The faux-crocodile tiles bring both spaces together, while the bright green of the gaming-turned-dining table lends a touch of contrast to the somewhat neutral color palette of the sitting area.
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Home design, much like fashion, is a spot-on indication of the times. This La Mesa home near San Diego received much praise in the 1960s for the way it seamlessly combined the outdoors with indoors. After a 2007 remodel by local architect Carmen Pauli, the home now stands as a representation of society’s move toward eco-friendly materials and reduced environmental impact.
Take a look at the 1960s style of the original home:
Now for the 21st-century version of the same room:
A new wood floor and lighter paint colors brighten the room, but overall the style is kept amazingly similar. Pauli’s remodel a few years back incorporated eco-friendly materials like Brazilian teak floors and ipe wood decking.
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April 7th, 2010 in San Diego
While living in a 700-square-foot home may be akin to taking up residence in a closet for some, Eric and Lauren Wendlandt wouldn't trade their tiny 1911 San Diego bungalow for anything. Of course, with her background in architecture and his in design, they happen to be perfectly equipped to make the cramped space functional.
Since bulky items were out of the question, the couple found furniture, like this dining room table, that could expand as needed. Equally as cool, the modest hanging light above can be brought down during meal time.
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April 2nd, 2010 in San Diego
With handprints etched in the foundation from relatives past and an amazing podocarpus tree in the front yard, the sheer size of which guarantees impressive old age, this San Diego abode, designed by architect James Gates, brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "family tree." The home is bursting with history and an updated modern charm, ensuring that it will be in the family for many generations to come.
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February 18th, 2010 in San Diego
When Tom Felkner moved into a massive structure that was nearly 90 years old, he decided to throw a party. There were just a few minor issues with hosting a party. The toilet in the main bathroom was being held together with paper clips. There was carbon monoxide lurking in the home’s crawlspace. The yard looked like Area 51. The home lacked furniture. Oh, and it was ugly. Really ugly.
Tom threw the party anyway, but this was a party with a group of elitist invitees—people like the mayor of San Diego and eminent members of historical societies, county board members, city human relations commissions and other such big kahunas. Tom was willing to showcase his 90-year-old monument to demonstrate what he could do with an ancient treasure.
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