Designed By: Richard Bustos Photos By: Jeri Koegel Ron and Kathy Chaisson have lived in many homes throughout Orange County, including three homes on the Balboa Peninsula and one at Pelican Crest. But when the “kind of retired” couple, as they describe their current status, decided to finally build their ultimate dream house in the flower streets of Corona del Mar, they opted not to skimp on the amenities. “We wanted this house to have the features of a resort,” says Ron. “So we designed it to have a pool on the roof, five patios, a spa, a gym, water walls in the courtyard, fire-pits and steam showers.” To bring that five-star level of luxury to their newly constructed home, the couple enlisted Orange County’s top talent, including our very own rock star design consultant Richard Bustos, who worked alongside interior designer Trish Steel and Patterson Custom Homes as well as Brandon Architects. Together the team created a 4,500 square-foot, five-bedroom, seven-and-a-half-bathroom contemporary house where R&R get top billing in almost every room. Two stories tall and with lots of open spaces, it manages to feel spacious despite its narrow location. And from its third floor patio, it boasts panoramic ocean views. “Overall we wanted this to be contemporary, but we also wanted it to feel warm,” says Ron. Key to creating that look was Richard, who selected the primary pieces from our extensive portfolio of top-quality furnishings. Richard also focused on clean lines and neutral colors to achieve the couple’s modern aesthetic, while allowing both the home’s gorgeous views and Kathy’s art to take center stage. As for that mahogany-lined elevator? “It’s a requirement,” states Ron. “With three levels, and lots of entertaining, we need that elevator for keeping the bar stocked up at the cabana, and for our big barbecue parties.” He adds, “my wife wears high heels a lot of the time, so riding the elevator instead of taking the stairs makes life that much better for her.”

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An urban ravine lot perfectly accommodates this exquisite aquatic retreat. A multi-level look is achieved with the slightly raised pool, elevated spillover spa and semi-circular stone wall with waterfall. The small grotto underneath is a haven for privacy while the underwater benches invite lounging. The Wiarton flagstone walls and deck add a natural touch. A special sound-proofed equipment shed was constructed in deference to the neighbours, it allows for year round use of the spa. (9 x 18, custom shape)

Builder: John Kraemer & Sons | Developer: KGA Lifestyle | Design: Charlie & Co. Design | Furnishings: Martha O'Hara Interiors | Landscaping: TOPO | Photography: Corey Gaffer

The homeowners asked our designer for a “simple white kitchen”, which she delivered in spades. This kitchen feels effortless with linen cabinets, modern dull nickel hardware, and silver glass subway tile for the backsplash. The clean lines, natural light and classy finishes make the kitchen feel fresh and smart. This is the second custom kitchen project we have completed for these homeowners and we truly love how they have both turned out. The before and after photos show how this kitchen went from non-descript to bright, modern and chic! Cabinets by Echelon in Maple, Trevino Slab door style with Linen finish Hardware by Elements, Belfast collection in dull nickel Countertop is Torquay by Cambria Backsplash by Color Appeal, color name Silver Cloud, glass subway w/ warm gray grout Faucet Simplice by Kohler in vibrant stainless Installed new appliances and removed knee wall, columns and built in pantry. Photos by: Keepsake Photography & Design

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The vintage inspired black and white tile is a nod to the past while the black stainless range and matte black faucet are unmistakably modern. High on our client’s wish list was eliminating upper cabinets and keeping the countertops clear. In order to achieve this, we needed to ensure there was ample room in the base cabinets and reconfigured pantry for items typically stored above. The full height tile backsplash evokes exposed brick and serves as the backdrop for the custom wood-clad hood and decorative brass sconces – a perfect blend of rustic, modern and chic. Black and brass elements are repeated throughout the main floor in new hardware, lighting, and open shelves as well as the owners’ curated collection of family heirlooms and furnishings.