A stunning coastal home in La Jolla, California, is now on the market for $5,670,000. This property, located at 5735 Dolphin, captures the essence of the iconic interiors often seen in films directed by Nancy Meyers, featuring a cozy and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of her classic works like *Something’s Gotta Give* and *The Holiday*.
The home is owned by Leslie Martin, co-founder of the acclaimed M + M Interior Design. Martin reimagined the space with a unique blend of styles, drawing inspiration from both American and British design. She describes the aesthetic as “American cottage,” stating, “Even though 80% of what I furnished it with is from the U.K., it’s less formal and more approachable,” which aligns with the relaxed vibe of Southern California.
Martin and her family relocated from Chicago to California shortly before the pandemic, moving into their new beach house after a year in Hawaii. She recognized the potential of the property almost immediately, despite a brief five-minute viewing. “I could tell right away that it had fantastic potential,” she explains.
The family’s transition involved downsizing from a spacious 8,000 square feet home to just over 3,000 square feet, but Martin adapted the design to maximize functionality. She emphasizes the importance of flow between spaces, noting that the living room and dining area are interconnected. With a substantial banquette that can accommodate 10 to 12 children, the home is well-suited for family gatherings.
The outdoor spaces further enhance the home’s appeal, featuring two entertaining decks—one for grilling and another for dining and relaxation around a fire pit. Martin’s design choices ensure that even with a smaller floor plan, the property remains functional for family life.
In addition to clever space management, Martin’s design incorporates architectural details that add character. “It was just a white box from the late ’90s with no architectural interest,” she recalls. To enhance its charm, she added features like shutters, gas lanterns, and a pergola. A terrace wall was replaced with glass to provide unobstructed ocean views, while new casings and windows lend a timeless quality to the home.
The interior design showcases a balance between style and comfort. Martin prioritizes oversized furniture and creative arrangements, stating, “I like cramming things in where they wouldn’t necessarily look good on plan.” This approach allows for flexibility, enabling the space to accommodate up to 20 people comfortably, even if it appears smaller at first glance.
The four-bedroom, four-bathroom property is not only stylish but also thoughtfully designed. Features such as tongue-and-groove paneling and exposed stonework contribute to its warm, inviting atmosphere. Each detail, from the high-gloss door to the ocean-facing views, creates an ambiance fit for a cinematic setting.
As the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, the home exemplifies the quintessential Californian lifestyle. The property is currently listed with Tim and Drew Nelson of Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of the Forbes Global Properties network. With its perfect blend of comfort, style, and location, this La Jolla home offers a unique opportunity for prospective buyers looking to embrace coastal living.
