Creating a Character Home

In 2009 with an empty nest and a recession threatening to de-rail my career, we decided to sell our family home we had previously rebuilt and downsize to a smaller home. We scoured several counties looking for the perfect project and found it less than a mile from our previous home here in Pebble Beach. Few would argue Pebble Beach is one of the most perfect areas but what an absolute treat to discover we could downsize here.

To say this little house lacked curb appeal was an absolute understatement. The exterior was hidden under a coat of dark brown paint and the windows were painted with bright turquoise trim. With years of home remodeling under our belt, we learned long ago to look past the cosmetic things we knew we could change. We were smitten! This little house had a soul and character, and as we would later learn, a charming story. All of that and a short walk to the beach! Perfect!!

We purchased from the original owners who designed and built it as their retirement home. The home's design was very unique for its age. Although built in 1968, it looked much older. It resembled a small French farmhouse or cottage complete with steep roof and tall skinny windows. All very uncharacteristic for this particular area.

We loved meeting some of the family and learning more about the prior owners. We believe the French Canadian heritage of one the owners might explain some of the French features in the architecture. There were also many unusual decorative elements Left behind. Together they created the soul and a story and provided the inspiration for our design style, "European Farmhouse Charm". Now it is our turn to write the next few chapters on our creative contributions to this house.

We are currently remodeling the entire property while incorporating the character elements (many of them left behind) that represent our design style. It's almost uncanny, we went searching for our next home and project amidst forced career and life change. We knew there was something special about this house within the first few minutes inside and you'll understand when you see our before photos why many must have questioned what that could possibly be! When we began, it was about how we were going to re-create and add to this charming little house but this little house is re-creating us!

Follow my blog while we continue to create our character home!

Cheers,

Sarah