Cozy and filled with personality, this 1940s Laguna Beach home brings together simplicity, natural elements and a fun spin on eclectic collections.

WRITTEN BY LAURA SHIMKO PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRET GUM

There can be a tendency in many modern-home designs toward the same kind of black and white, minimalist aesthetic. For those who enjoy the charm and character of cottages and bungalows, it is always exciting to see life and personality infused into a home’s design and décor, especially if that home is half a century or more old. Christopher Karl and his husband, Michael Bucaro, had lived in Laguna Beach, California, for three decades before stumbling upon this two-story home tucked into Bluebird Canyon. Their unique, curated and fresh style gives the small space a light, cozy and unmistakably personalized feel.

“Finding a way to display what we use and love is always the simplest goal.”

MOVING IN, MAKING HOME

When Christopher and Michael came across this 1940s gem, they knew it was meant to be. “The space opens up into the canyon, which is our favorite feature,” Chris says. The sprawling backyard feels wild, with an abundance of natural and planted foliage. “Our experience of living in Laguna Beach was always centered around the ocean,” Chris explains. “When we found this space, it knocked us out—we could not believe an actual forest-type space existed in our town.”

The new home was smaller than their previous living space, so one of the driving forces of the move was an effort to simplify. “We trimmed down our possessions at least two-thirds,” Chris says. “Everything we brought was important to us, and surprisingly enough we don’t miss any of what once seemed so important.” The home was modified over the years so that the top and bottom space are completely closed off and separate with different entrances to allow for privacy. An added perk is that their dear friend of many decades lives in the upper portion of the home.