Nestled along the breathtaking banks of Laguna Beach, a historic 1930s home originally designed by celebrated architect Garett van Pelt has been masterfully transformed into a serene modern retreat. This 5,000-square-foot residence, with its timeless bones, now boasts clean neutrals, rich woods, and a harmonious interplay of natural light streaming through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. With views of the sparkling Pacific waters as its backdrop, this six-month renovation was a labor of love, guided by the expertise of Cantoni designer Danna Mao.
Danna’s creative vision and deep understanding of Cantoni’s portfolio were instrumental in realizing the home’s transformation. Her client, renowned real estate developer and builder Bobby Dadvar, approached her with a clear goal: to elevate the property’s design using Cantoni’s luxurious furnishings and refined aesthetics. Bobby, who has collaborated with Danna for over a decade, knew her skill and Cantoni’s offerings would infuse value and sophistication into this coastal treasure. Working alongside Brian Webb, the duo gutted the home and undertook a full-scale interior renovation complemented by a stunning new landscape.
Drawing inspiration from the surrounding Pacific Ocean and lush greenery, Danna worked closely with her clients to create spaces that are bright, airy, and luxurious. The result is a home that invites awe at every turn, with interiors that honor its rich history while embracing modern elegance. “My client had a good vision of what Cantoni items and design styles he liked, and for me, it was easy to work with him to create the spaces as we had a similar vision,” Danna shared. “This was a wonderful collaboration.”
Stepping inside, the home’s thoughtful design immediately takes center stage. Modern touches blend seamlessly with classic elements, creating a balanced interplay of textures and materials. Natural wood, leather, fabric, and marble are expertly layered to infuse visual excitement while maintaining a sense of calm. Every detail–from the clean-lined furnishings to the carefully curated decor–celebrates the art of understated luxury.
The outdoor space is equally captivating. A tiered patio offers sweeping views of the ocean, making it the perfect setting for star-studded sunsets and tranquil early-morning sunrises. Whether enjoying a quiet moment alone or entertaining guests, every corner of this outdoor oasis is a testament to intentional design.
For Danna, her favorite aspect of the project was working with these diverse materials to craft a cohesive yet dynamic aesthetic. “Utilizing different textures allowed us to create spaces that are luxurious yet approachable, modern yet timeless,” she explained. Her ability to weave these elements together ensures that the home not only complements its stunning natural surroundings but also feels intrinsically connected to them.
The rebirth of this Laguna Beach treasure is more than just a renovation; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and vision. Danna’s expertise in crafting bespoke interiors has culminated in a home that is as breathtaking as its setting. From its luxurious interiors to its showstopping outdoor spaces, this modern escape is the epitome of coastal luxury.
