A beautifully designed beach house in La Jolla, California, is currently on the market for $5,670,000. The home, owned by interior designer Leslie Martin, reflects a style reminiscent of the iconic residences featured in Nancy Meyers films. With its inviting atmosphere and carefully curated interiors, this property captures the essence of coastal living.
Upon entering the house, visitors are enveloped in a warm ambiance that evokes the charm of classic film sets. The design is described by Martin as “American cottage,” blending traditional elements with a modern sensibility. “I wanted it to feel less formal than my typical client projects,” she explains. “It’s a beach house, so I aimed for a clean, neutral look that feels approachable.”
The journey to this coastal retreat began when Martin, her husband, and their five children relocated to California just before the pandemic. After a year in Hawaii, they settled in La Jolla, a community Martin knows well from her college days. “I only had five minutes to see the house before catching a flight back to Hawaii, but I could sense its potential immediately,” she recalls.
Despite downsizing from a spacious 8,000 square feet home in Chicago to just over 3,000 square feet in California, the family has adapted well. Martin emphasizes the importance of flow in the home’s design. “We spend a lot of time outdoors, so the space needed to work for gatherings,” she notes. The living room seamlessly connects to the dining area, encouraging interaction, while a massive banquette can accommodate up to 12 people.
Outside, the property features two decks designed for entertaining. One deck serves as a grilling area, while the other offers a space for dining and relaxing around a fire pit. These outdoor spaces enhance the home’s functionality, making it ideal for family and friends to come together.
Martin’s design choices reflect her unique style and practical approach. Rather than minimizing furnishings to create an illusion of space, she opts for oversized pieces that invite comfort. “I like to fill spaces creatively, adding extra seating where it might not seem feasible,” she explains. This allows her to host large gatherings without compromising aesthetics.
The home boasts four bedrooms and four bathrooms, each designed with architectural detail that adds character. “Originally, it was just a white box from the late ’90s,” Martin recalls. Improvements include adding shutters, gas lanterns, and a pergola that enhances the exterior’s charm. A glass terrace wall provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, while white Santa Barbara stucco lends a historic touch appropriate for California.
Inside, Martin has enhanced the home’s character with substantial window casings, tongue-and-groove paneling, and exposed stonework in the kitchen. These design elements contribute to a sense of warmth and timelessness.
With views of the Pacific Ocean and picturesque sunsets, 5735 Dolphin is a captivating retreat that feels like a cinematic experience. The listing is represented by Tim and Drew Nelson of Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of Forbes Global Properties. This collaboration highlights the home’s appeal, making it a coveted property for potential buyers seeking a blend of elegance and coastal charm.
