Elements of California charm appear throughout southern California, but can be adapted to your own part of the world making it more special.
Everything seems to be better in California in my family’s mind. The produce at the Farmer’s Markets, the weather for sure, and then the houses. Spanish revival is my favorite style and those types of houses are in abundance. There are also adorable beach cottages, tudors, and craftsman homes. Below are just a few gems that I took pictures of on my “house drives” through La Jolla and San Diego.
Picture perfect California charm in La Jolla.
If only houses were still built with this type of attention to detail and quality. That plaster design over the front door is amazing. When does one ever see something like that? This house couldn’t possibly have more California charm with its leaded windows, cedar shake roof, and weather vane. Balcony doors are usually left open all day and night as the weather in paradise is perfect.
A quiet residential street in La Jolla.
An interesting privacy wall protects it somewhat from passing cars and camera-carrying pedestrians.
Humble yet striking beach cottage, La Jolla.
This small house stands out for its simplicity and starkness. The window and door color give it a fresh edge. What more would you need living just blocks from the beach?
Beachfront estate in La Jolla.
Directly on the ocean is this gorgeous Spanish-style estate that I seem to photograph every visit. Unfortunately for me, one isn’t able to see much of the house from the street.
Even the garages are lovelier in La Jolla.
Even their garage is beautiful. Thick white plaster and clay tile roofs never disappoint.
California pine tree protecting this cottage entry, La Jolla.
The understated entrance of this Spanish-style cottage is typical California charm.
Mexican tile street numbers add charm to a brick entry wall, La Jolla.
The main attraction, for me, is of course the tile street numbers. The newly made tiles are rarely as charming as the old styles as their colors are too bright and the patterns are too crisp. A few of these may be newer replacements but they still look good.
México on Coronado Island.
The detail seen above would make you think you were in México. Possibly the homeowner is Mexican or just an admirer.
Interesting garage on Coronado.
The accompanying garage for the house above, spotted on Coronado Island.
Dracaena draco, Coronado Island.
A fantastic dracaena draco tree on the grounds. I love these trees and wonder if they would grow in Florida.
Coronado Island tudor.
Another Coronado house. The interesting railing detail above the garage caught my eye.
Books housed beautifully in La Jolla.
Back in La Jolla is the Athenaeum Music and Arts Library. This building is so beautiful. Downtown La Jolla is full of extraordinary yet somewhat humble architecture.
Color inspiration in La Jolla.
The windows are especially lovely with their custom shape and unusual color combination.
Beautiful residential details used for a La Jolla library.
The entry to the library with beams and the same window and door treatment as seen above.
Could your house use some California charm? Casa V can help.