Sheryll Jackman, ASID is awarded 1st Place
ASID Interior Design Excellence Competition,
San Diego Chapter, 1st Place for a commercial
space over 5000 sq. feet.

Project completed December 1, 2005
 
CLIENT GOALS:
Nothing is more difficult for a designer than having to be their own client .  Early last year, when I decided to open a signature Home Furnishing/ Lifestyle Shop, I found myself in this exact difficult situation. My vision was to capture the essence of  Coastal Living through the language of design. I was responsible for the design, documents, building department approval, code requirements and construction co-supervision.

PROJECT SCOPE:
The facility, a scrappy C-1970’s, two-story, 10,000 square foot block building, in La Jolla on a busy corner with limited parking was in desperate need of a face-lift and remodel. The existing first floor storefront consisted of two entries at each side with tinted windows pushed up against the property line. The exterior of the second level consisted of tinted windows over looking a section of roof with a copper architectural element at the roof line.
 
DESIGN SOLUTION:

Exterior:
The facade was pushed back, creating a covered, central entry with two pairs of French doors and new, clear storefront windows. The steel structural mullions were converted into columns, display boxes at either side were re-built, and two wrought iron sconces frame either side.

A balcony was created consisting of an arched area for an awning and signage with a metal railing at either side. The copper piece was removed and replaced with a more classically inspired cornice. Custom planter boxes with copper linings were added. Colors were chosen in keeping with stated goals.

Interior:
The first floor of the interior had been divided into two areas with structural columns and stacks down the center. The stairway ended at a previous entry. The new design incorporates the structural elements into muntined window-walls, creating areas for room settings and providing a feeling of discovery for what is beyond. The glass expanses also serve security purposes. Two classical columns create a framed sanctuary at the rear.

A signature element for my stores is a kitchen area serving as a cash wrap, allowing a place for refrigerated water, wine storage, and an espresso machine. The sink area, used to maintain crystal and other items, also serves as a point-of-sale display area.

The twelve-foot high ceilings were painted in a mink taupe with crown molding dropped down one foot and painted a creamy white. This keeps the customers focused on the merchandise and away from the display lighting. The smooth walls were painted a custom blue I designed and had specially mixed for the project.

Concrete floors were repaired, cleaned and sealed and were topped with large sisal carpets.The stairway was widened and curves into the entry foyer, inviting all to explore the second level. An Antelope print carpet adds an unexpected point of interest.

Fabric workrooms were designed for each floor complete with computer stations for instant product information.
                

While the first floor conveys a feeling of refinement and houses more up-scale furniture, bedding and accessories, the second floor, with white painted floors, vaulted ceiling and new muntioned window walls is more relaxed. A pair of French doors open onto the newly created balcony. New electrical and lighting systems were designed to accommodate display, ambient, task and security as well as decorative lighting, sconces, and chandeliers.

view photos of Seaside Home La Jolla