A stunning coastal home in La Jolla, California, is capturing attention for its interiors reminiscent of a Nancy Meyers film. This property, located at 5735 Dolphin, is on the market for $5,670,000. It features the hallmark cozy aesthetic that characterizes the director’s iconic films, such as Something’s Gotta Give and The Holiday.
The home is owned by Leslie Martin, co-founder of the award-winning firm M + M Interior Design. Martin completely transformed the space, blending traditional and modern styles. She describes the design as “American cottage,” infused with elements from the UK. “It’s less formal than my client portfolio for a couple of reasons,” Martin explains. “Firstly, it’s a beach house, so I didn’t want it to feel too dark and heavy. Secondly, southern California has a different aesthetic—clean, modern, neutral.”
Martin relocated to California with her family just before the pandemic began. After a brief stay in Hawaii, they settled in La Jolla, where Martin quickly recognized the potential of the property during a five-minute visit. “I could tell right away that it had fantastic potential,” she recalls.
The family adjusted from their spacious 8,000-square-foot home in Chicago to a more compact 3,000-square-foot residence. Martin emphasizes that the outdoors play a significant role in their California lifestyle. “We live outside most of the time anyway,” she says, highlighting the importance of the home’s layout.
The interior design showcases thoughtful space management. Martin ensured that rooms flow seamlessly into one another. For example, a large banquette easily accommodates ten to twelve guests, allowing the family to entertain comfortably. The house features two outdoor decks, one designed for grilling and the other for dining around a fire pit.
Despite the smaller size, Martin’s design maximizes functionality. “I like oversized furniture and cramming things in where they wouldn’t necessarily look good on plan,” she shares. This approach allows the home to accommodate large gatherings while maintaining a cozy atmosphere.
Architectural details contribute to the home’s character, which was initially a bland white box from the late 1990s. Changes include adding shutters, gas lanterns, and a pergola to support bougainvillea growth. A glass terrace wall on the upper deck enhances the ocean view, creating a serene space for relaxation.
Inside, Martin added window casings and new windows, enhancing the home’s historical appeal. The use of tongue-and-groove paneling, exposed stonework in the kitchen, and lacquered brass hardware contribute to the design’s warmth and charm.
From the American flag fluttering in the coastal breeze to the welcoming entrance, every element of 5735 Dolphin invites one to imagine a cinematic lifestyle. With the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the property offers a picturesque setting for both relaxation and entertainment.
The listing agents for this remarkable home are Tim and Drew Nelson of Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of Forbes Global Properties. The combination of elegant design and stunning location makes this home a rare find in the competitive real estate market of Southern California.
