House Tour: A Polished California Cottage
A beach house where heirlooms go hand-in-hand with hanging chairs and shag ottomans.
Despite boasting 4,000 square feet, four bedrooms, and a classic sensibility, this Coronado, Calif., showhouse has a surprising livability. Interior design firm Burnham Design worked with Coastal Living magazine to create a space that—although decidedly sophisticated and luxurious—welcomes guests with its ease and comfort. Here, coastal, traditional, and bohemian styles blend, mirroring California's melting pot of cultures.
Entryway
Designs: Burnham Design
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The juxtaposition of high-end furnishings and laid-back styling is evident from the first step inside. In the foyer, an enviable collection of classic Delftware pottery is overflowing with wild greenery; it's set atop a classic black-and-white checkered floor with a twist—rather than marble, it's painted wood.
Kitchen
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An all-white, oversized kitchen could feel stark or cold, but sunlight streams in from double-decker windows and weathered wood floors imbue the space with warmth. The large blue island provides space for both meal prep and family time, while keeping the home's blue, white, and green color scheme in mind. A pair of large pendant lights, porthole windows, and an anchor marquee light nod to the home's seaside locale.
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Adjoining the kitchen, the dining room is an extension of the surf and sand, which you can see through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Varying hues of tan—the casual linen chairs, weathered wood floors, and dining table—provide the perfect neutral backdrop for the main attraction: the Pacific Ocean.
Living Room
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Connected to the dining room, this blue-and-white, classically cool living room embraces conversation and comfort. Rather than an ornately decorated mantel, only books and nostalgic paintings adorn the fireplace. Cozy chairs and sofas abound, placed strategically for entertaining. The only elements to break from the blue and white palette are natural—wood, rattan, and plant life, keeping the admittedly packed space clean and uncluttered.
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You’ll be California dreaming in this boho boudoir. Classic Americana red, white, and blue get reimagined with trendy, global influences. Plaids, stripes, chinoiserie, and ethnic motifs work together seamlessly to create a layered look, while each pattern is given enough space to shine.
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If there were ever a space to fully embrace the nautical theme and go full-scale kitsch, it'd be in a child's room. Mini sail flags, porthole décor, and bunk beds that resemble the sleeping quarters of a ship's cabin scream, "Ahoy!".
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Veering slightly from the light, ethereal green-and-blue palette in the rest of the house, this living area embraces its subterranean location to create a cozier and warmer feel. Large sail flags hung overlapping one another make a strong nautical statement and connect both spaces, while retro-style chairs and fridge lend a nostalgic touch in the kitchen.
In the living room space, an oversized sofa piled high with pillows invites company. Global accents, like the garden stool and boucherouite-covered ottoman, nod to the rest of the home.
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Combining the charm of a Southern porch and the minimalist aesthetic of a Mykonos restaurant, this classic blue and white outdoor space is made for entertaining. White tables and chairs keep the look light and bright, while blue accents, fresh foliage, and a near-panoramic view help bridge the gap between home and nature.
