Back in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, Carlsbad, California, saw a surge of upscale tract homes popping up in neighborhoods like Aviara and La Costa. While stunning in their heyday, these homes are now 25 years old and practically begging for a refresh.
I’ve been fortunate to breathe new life into several of these homes, tackling ambitious remodels that honor their original charm while elevating their design to meet modern tastes. One standout project in La Costa Valley offered the perfect opportunity to merge tradition with contemporary flair. Here’s how we transformed it.
Our Goals
Create a cohesive, elevated design that feels timeless.
Seamlessly blend the homeowners’ East Coast tradition and West Coast contemporary vibes.
Incorporate personal collections and modern pieces without missing a beat.
The Kitchen: A True Centerpiece
To modernize the heart of the home, we started by eliminating outdated soffits and raising the cabinetry to the 10-foot ceiling. A multi-layer crown molding added a sense of grandeur while cleverly concealing HVAC and plumbing.
The color palette—soft cream and navy—exudes warmth and tradition. Countertops in leathered Taj Mahal and Perla Venata Quartzite bring sophistication and durability, while a travertine backsplash with timeless blue patterns from Stone Impressions adds a personal touch.
We swapped an awkward walk-in pantry for sleek, functional cabinets and replaced the cramped island and kitchen table with an expansive island featuring ample storage and seating for the family. Modern Alno hardware and Visual Comfort pendant lights tie everything together. Finally, a French door replaced the single door, inviting the outdoors in.
The Family Room: Balance Meets Beauty
Reconfiguring the fireplace to the center of the wall instantly brought symmetry to the space. We added slim-line ledge stone up to the ceiling, creating a stunning focal point, while flanking cabinetry displays the homeowners’ beloved teapot collection.
Contemporary furniture with warm hues keeps the room inviting, and artwork by local artist Nancy Fraser adds a cohesive charm.
Dining Room:
Where Old Meets New
The dining room ties together the traditional and modern elements, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for gatherings. Collected Chinese artwork hangs above cherished furniture pieces, mixing treasured finds with fresh touches. A thoughtful color palette keeps it grounded yet interesting.
Primary Bath: Functional Luxury
Outdated and clunky, the original bath was completely reimagined. A freestanding tub replaced the oversized built-in, opening the space. Marble-look porcelain wainscoting, herringbone floors, and large-format shower tiles create a modern yet timeless atmosphere.
Built-in medicine cabinets add hidden storage, and moving the toilet room door allowed for a linen and laundry cabinet, making the space both beautiful and practical.
Powder Room: A Jewel Box of Design
The powder room’s transformation is all about drama and elegance. This small space shines with a glass sink, abalone mosaic backsplash, and a vanity made of white pearl quartzite. A custom-framed inset mirror complements the shimmering wallpaper, while soft ambient lighting enhances the room’s jewel-box effect, making it a true conversation starter for guests.
Laundry Room: A Happy Place
We maximized functionality in the laundry room with custom cabinetry designed for specific needs, including pull-out hampers and built-in shelving for supplies. The cheerful blue wallpaper brings personality to the space, making even mundane chores feel a little more enjoyable. It’s one of the homeowner’s favorite spaces.
Art and Collections: The Heart of the Home
Incorporating the homeowners’ extensive art and collections was both a challenge and a joy. We carefully curated each piece to ensure it fit seamlessly within the design, achieving a perfect balance of personal expression and aesthetic harmony.
Curating Your Own Space
Curating a collection takes courage and honesty. Start simply: decide what’s non-negotiable and what can go. With the right approach, you’ll create a home that reflects who you are while feeling fresh and inviting.
This project was a labor of love, blending timeless design with personal storytelling—a true testament to the power of a well-designed home.
