This article explores the magical transformation of a historic Carmel cottage, dubbed "Our House," by acclaimed designer Heidi Caillier. It delves into the cottage's storied past, its current homeowners' vision, and Caillier's innovative approach to blending old-world charm with contemporary design elements, resulting in a vibrant and unique seaside retreat.Experience the Whimsy: A Fairytale Reimagined at "Our House"
The Genesis of a Fairytale: Hugh Comstock's Enduring Legacy
In 1924, renowned Carmel-by-the-Sea architect Hugh Comstock's affection for doll maker Mayotta Browne led to the creation of "Hansel," a charming, Tudor-style cottage. This diminutive 240-square-foot dwelling, characterized by its distinctive flared eaves, handcrafted trim, and whimsical stone chimney, captivated the local community and set the precedent for Comstock's subsequent eighteen designs in Carmel, each celebrated by its unique name rather than a mundane street address.
"Our House": A Love Story in Pink and Green
Among Comstock's nineteen enchanting creations stands "Our House," built in 1928. This delightful pink and green residence, nestled behind a charming grape-stake fence and vibrant rose garden, possesses an irresistible allure. Homeowner Carole Lutz, drawn to its hand-carved heart shutters and picturesque windows, felt an immediate connection to the property, convinced it was her destiny despite her husband Breck's initial reservations about its need for renovation.
Heidi Caillier's Vision: Blending History with Modern Flair
The Lutz family entrusted San Francisco-based AD100 designer Heidi Caillier with the renovation. Known for her work on Kendall Jenner's Wyoming mountain home and her popular Lulu & Georgia collection, Caillier was the ideal choice to infuse modern chic into the cottage's traditional aesthetic. She was captivated by the home's inherent charm and immediately envisioned a design that would honor its history while preventing it from feeling overly saccharine.
Transforming the Interior: A Symphony of Patterns and Textures
Caillier's renovation involved a comprehensive interior overhaul. While preserving original elements like the living room's wood paneling, beams, fireplace, and light fixture, she reimagined the layout to include three bedrooms and three bathrooms, meticulously replicating original details in the trim, windows, doors, and hardware. The challenge of a relatively compact 1,800-square-foot footprint was overcome by an imaginative interplay of prints, patterns, and textures, lending the home an expansive personality.
A Masterclass in Eclectic Harmony: Curated Furnishings and Finishes
The interior design of "Our House" is a testament to Caillier's expertise in eclectic styling. The living room features custom gingham window treatments by Soane, a striped Jennifer Shorto-upholstered ottoman, a George Smith sofa with striped Peter Dunham upholstery, and John Derian chairs adorned with Decors Barbares leaf-printed fabric. A Nicholas Herbert wallpaper in the dining room complements the white kitchen cabinets, while Farrow & Ball Tailor Tack-painted walls in the guest bedroom provide a muted backdrop for bold textiles.
Thoughtful Details: From Botanical Art to Vintage Treasures
Caillier's keen eye for detail is evident throughout the home. Antique Chinese botanical watercolors provide a striking contrast against the neutral walls of the living room. A cozy nook off the living room features an 1880s French vintner’s table paired with a Sika Design chair and a bench with Holland & Sherry fabric. The bathrooms each boast unique personalities, with Adelphi wallpaper and Antoinette Poisson sink skirts creating a playful yet elegant ambiance.
The Art of Intentional Juxtaposition: A Designer's Philosophy
Caillier deliberately avoided a uniform color scheme, aiming for an aesthetic that suggests a collection of furnishings acquired over time. She skillfully balanced floral motifs with stripes and plaids, juxtaposing dense elements with lighter ones. By sourcing from a diverse range of vendors, she ensured that no single design direction dominated, resulting in a cohesive yet varied interior that is both sophisticated and inviting.
A Home That Inspires Awe: The Lutzes' Delight
Homeowner Breck Lutz expressed his astonishment at the transformation, admitting he was initially skeptical of Caillier's plans. However, the final reveal left him thoroughly impressed, remarking, "It turned out amazing." Carole Lutz echoed this sentiment, stating that Caillier had truly brought out the best in the cottage, a sentiment even shared by the city planner, who was visibly moved by the renovation's success.
Creative Spaces: Office and Bathrooms Transformed
The office, though small, makes a bold statement with its Farrow & Ball Minster Green walls, complemented by a Julian Chichester desk chair featuring Svenskt Tenn fabric and an antique rag rug. In the primary bedroom, a Nickey Kehoe quilt with an opposing pattern creates visual interest against the vintage rug, maintaining a harmonious color palette. Even the guest bathrooms are infused with character, with one boasting a custom Le Gracieux shower curtain and Schuyler Samperton wallpaper, and another featuring Benjamin Moore Piano Concerto walls and Exquisite Surfaces floor tile, all adorned with thoughtfully chosen vintage pieces and bespoke elements.
