CREG 2.02.24 by Times Media Group

Discover the Pinnacle of Coastal Living in Laguna Beach

IN THE KITCHEN

CULINARY SPACES SHINE WITH CONTEMPORARY DESIGN TOUCHES.

BY TANYA A. YACINA / COURTESY OF NEWPORT BEACH MAGAZINE

In the ever-evolving realm of interior design, the heart of every home is the kitchen—a space where form and function harmonize, where culinary creativity meets contemporary aesthetic. Kitchen design trends are constantly shifting in response to progressing lifestyles, technologies and the desire for spaces that not only serve practical needs but also reflect personal style.

Anissa Swanzy, owner and founder of Newport Beach-based SKD Studios, says that she aims to keep her kitchen designs timeless and adds trendy details to the smaller particulars of the room to allow for growth and change.

“Modern kitchen design, in today’s

“Kelly

definition, … means cleaner lines, more simple aesthetics,” Swanzy says.

“Cleaner door styles for the cabinets, using the same countertops as the backsplash instead of bringing in a wild color [and] using natural materials and softer colors.”

She adds that current trends are shifting back to natural materials, like wood and linen, even in the kitchen.

“We are mixing metals and bringing in lots of natural products,” she explains.

“Natural marble is back, wood tones in light Scandinavian colors are hot and neutral backsplashes are coming back.”

The popular design trend known as Japandi—a mix of Japanese elegance and Scandinavian

Step inside and become instantly captivated by unobstructed, panoramic views spanning the hillsides of Laguna to the Pacific Ocean. From the large, central living space, the warmth of the sun and daytime light radiates through large picture windows and multiple sliding glass doors, which allow for several access points to the rear, spacious deck and covered lanai—the true heart of this home. Recently updated in a timeless style, this single-story retreat offers an elegant blend of sophistication, comfort, and ultimate privacy making it an ideal coastal sanctuary. Boasting three bedrooms, each equipped with its own custom built-in storage closet, a modern kitchen featuring a central island, Viking appliances and a wine refrigerator, and an open-concept floor plan encompassing dining, living and lounging areas, you will find ample space for both entertaining and daily living. Whether you’re captivated by sunsets over the ocean or prefer the warmth of a fireplace on a cool coastal evening, this home offers the perfect setting. Nestled in the desirable Mystic Hills neighborhood, live moments away from parks, hiking trails, award-winning schools, and the charming downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Laguna Beach’s famous coastline is within reach, offering endless opportunities for sun, sand, and surf.

PROPERTY: 1593 Tahiti Avenue, Laguna Beach PRICE: $3,799,000

AGENT INFO: Kristine Flynn | DRE#02063127 | Mike Johnson Group kristine.ﬂynn@compass.com; 949-463-9847 mikejohnsongroup.com

minimalism—contributes to the recent uptick of natural elements used in kitchens, according to Swanzy. The aesthetic is more mellow and soft, relying on the harmony created by wood tones, neutral shades and full-height backsplashes

KITCHEN Page 4

DARLENE HALABY

PHOTOGRAPHY

Interior designer Anissa Swanzy, owner of SKD Studios, keeps kitchen designs timeless but adds trendy elements for some details. Cleaner lines, natural materials and softer colors are part of the modern kitchen aesthetic as many embrace Japandi, a mix of Japanese elegance and Scandinavian minimalism.

630 Loretta Drive, Laguna Beach

Set in the serene Portafina neighborhood perched in the picturesque hills above iconic Victoria Beach and Sugarloaf Point, offering scenic ocean views. A true masterpiece of thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail, with no aspect overlooked in its complete reimagination. Every inch has been expertly reenvisioned, from the foundational elements to the selection of refined finishes, ensuring unparalleled quality and style.

FOR $3,500,000

natalie@homesbyverso.com www.homesbyverso.com

Photographer/Videographer: Andrew Bramasco

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instead of flashy colors and tiles.

“A few of the most important elements … [in] a perfect kitchen space consist of the cabinets, the countertops and the appliances,” she says. “… For cabinets, find a good kitchen designer to help you layout the new cabinet design and make sure that your new cabinets have the room you need for all your organization. For countertops, we encourage the use of natural products for clients that have the understanding that it will patina and will stay in style forever.”

When it comes to appliances, Swanzy is a strong believer in panel-ready units, which are unfinished and can be customized to match the room. She suggests opting for a free-standing range instead of a cooktop and separate ovens to save space. She also recommends not skimping on the appliances, because

when you buy quality the first time around, you won’t have to replace them for years to come.

“Hire a kitchen designer. Even if you are using an architect, they are not kitchen designers, just like kitchen designers aren’t architects,” she explains. “It is vital to have someone that understands how a kitchen will be laid out, as well as how to incorporate your appliances and be able to show you the design in 3D.”

In addition, she says homeowners should seek out inspiration from other finished spaces before making any major decisions on design. “Seeing kitchens complete is a good way for clients to portray to a professional designer what they want,” she adds. “It is also a good way to see different styles and home in on their [own personal] style.”

SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Chris Mattingley, Carol Josepher, Dawn Lindeman, Mara Hertel

EDITORIAL

FIREBRAND NEWSROOM 949-715-4100

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Tina Leydecker tina@firebrandmediainc.com

DESIGN/MARKETING

CREATIVE & MARKETING DIRECTOR

Tracy Powell

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Tiffany Thompson

CEO & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Steve Zepezauer

PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING

Scott Sanchez

ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION: Tel: 949-715-4100

MAILING ADDRESS: 900 Glenneyre Street, Suite B, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Tel: 949-715-4100

Own a piece of Laguna Beach history!

This Classic Historic Mediterranean Revival home, perched high on a hill overlooking the village of Laguna Beach and Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the arcaded porch and beamed ceiling living room. This majestic home, built in 1932 for J.W. Bishop, is still a beacon shining over the whitewater, coastline, city lights, and Catalina Island views that the original owner envisioned. This iconic three bedroom, three bathroom home was completely remodeled, upgraded and restored in 2018, while keeping a nod to its history. The interior now contains features for a discerning owner, featuring walnut & stone flooring throughout, gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry and a La Cornue 36” range. The interior features chosen dramatically enhanced, and also added continuity, such as solid walnut doors and classic tiled bathrooms, all while maintaining the home’s classic Spanish beauty.

Additional Amenities: Tesla Charger, Newer gas firepits at front and back entertaining areas, dual HVAC and Halo whole house filtration.

This one-of-a-kind historic jewel located just steps from Main Beach, shopping, dining and coastal activities. Listed on the Historic Register and enjoys the benefits of Mills Act property tax savings.

721 Manzanita Drive awaits you! Offered at $4,495,000

406 Riverside Ave | Newport Beach

430 El Modena Ave | Newport Beach 33122 Paseo Celestial | San Juan Capistrano 494 Hilledge Dr | Laguna Beach

2507 Island View Dr | Newport Beach

Nottigham Rd | Newport Beach 2751 De Soto Ave | Costa Mesa

Cliff Dr | Laguna Beach

RE D PROPERTIES

The Market Report

This week the median list price for Laguna Beach, CA is $4,850,000 with the market action index hovering around 27. This is less than last month's market action index of 29. Inventory has increased to 119.

The market has been consistently cool for several weeks. Demand level are low relative to the available inventory. It's a Buyer's market and prices continue to fall. Look for a persistent shift in Market Action before prices plateau or begin to rise again.

Med ia n List Price

This week the median list price for Newport Beach, CA is $5,495,000 with the market action index hovering around 33. This is less than last month's market action index of 34. Inventory has increased to 108.

Ma rk et Segments

Each segment below represents approximately 25% of the market ordered by price.

The market has been cooling over time and prices plateaued for a while. Despite the consistent decrease in MAI, we’re in the Seller’s zone. Watch for changes in MAI. If the MAI resumes its climb, prices will likely follow suit. If the MAI drops consistently or falls into the Buyer’s zone, watch for downward pressure on prices.