Why these San Diego interiors are earning jet-setter cred

Interior designer Katelyn De Spain created a resort-inspired space in Carlsbad that intentionally evokes the far-away feels. “Every detail in this space channels the laid-back ease of a getaway — from the deep, lounge-style seating to the serene, neutral palette,” says the interior designer and founder of Make House Design Studio who limewashed the walls to mimic centuries-old buildings abroad along with pillows to add depth, comfort, and texture throughout. “Thoughtful touches inspired by Morocco, like the custom plaster sofa and the plush texture of a handmade rug, bring a sense of warmth, craftsmanship, and escape right into the home.”

Allison Garrison spent 18 months on an “endless-summer-style trip” around the world with her husband. Together they drove through Central America, island hopped in the Pacific, and spent three months in Indonesia before finishing the journey in Africa. It was the trip of a lifetime, but the adventure also ended up providing inspiration for her San Diego home. “All of these locales influenced the style of the home, but I would say, Mexico, Bali, and Morocco played heavily into the vibe,” says Garrison, the founder and principal designer of Allito Spaces.  “The outdoor space really transports you, especially the bamboo-topped pergola with its beautiful dappled light — it creates that slow, sun-soaked feeling you get lounging under a palapa somewhere far away, where time feels like it moves differently,” says Garrison, who also created an outdoor shower surrounded in lush tropical vegetation. “It makes every rinse feel like a getaway — private, refreshing, and just a little wild, like something you’d stumble upon at a boutique resort in Bali.” She brought the vacation feeling indoors as well, through  Schumacher’s wallpaper by Abel Macias used dramatically in her office. “Inspired by Mexican Otomi textiles, it adds a playful, vibrant layer that nods to travel and tradition,” she says. “It wraps the room in joy and color, like the kind of bold, beautiful details you only find in a well-designed vacation home you never want to leave.”

For Tiffani Baumgart, no detail is too small. So when her client said she wanted to transform a San Diego cottage into a micro-version of Versailles, Baumgart began a project that would take her across Europe. “The home is full of authentic antiques that I found in Europe and through dealers from all over the world as well as here in San Diego and Los Angeles,” says Baumgart of the project. “The requirement was that they dated back to the reigning years of King Henry IV through King Henry VII (1399 through 1547). Things like cabinetry, corbels, and iron stands for the antique sinks were among those that could not be found but rather intentionally designed and handmade to reflect those which could have possibly been details seen throughout the 14th to 16th centuries.” To create a fully immersive, painstakingly authentic period experience, Baumgart didn’t just need to source everything from pillows to plinths, she also had to find the artists and craftsmen and women who could transform the vision into reality. “The wall and ceiling trim molding pieces are actual cast molds derived from century-old buildings, then handmade plaster pieces were applied throughout the home. Some are painted and hand glazed for the authentic feel, while others have been hand painted with 18k gold paint to reflect the ormolu details of the past,” she says. Even elements like the wall paneling were created to evoke the past, both in how it was made and how it looks. “They were created and milled from vintage wood to enhance the aged look, timeworn cracks and all. Each door and window was custom made, carved and layered with fine finishing and adorned with hardware cast and handmade in France.” Today Baumgart says the years it took to design and execute on her client’s highly unique, highly specific vision has left a lasting impact: “Each room holds its own unique feeling and accompanying experience so profoundly felt every time I meander though. Years of memories creating this mini palace and working with such amazing artists, dealers, and a fabulous, beautiful client will be imbedded in my heart forever.”

Kitchens are typically more function than form, but interior designer Kristin Kostamo-McNeil created the ultimate culinary hub that artfully weaves in her clients’ French heritage and shared passion for cooking. The kitchen and dining nook beckon bistro style while integrating next-level culinary features. “The refrigerator and freezer towers were fully integrated and elevated with antique mirror cladding, introducing a soft patina that adds depth and character. Framed by custom cabinetry in a rich, deep navy finish, the composition is both bold and timeless,” says Kostamo-McNeil, interior designer and founder of Anne Rae Design, who extended the look by bringing a patina’d look to the finishes. “While the fixtures are brand new, they evoke a timeless charm with their classic shapes and warm finishes. Layered lighting throughout the space creates a soft, intimate glow — perfect for that cozy, tucked-away bistro ambiance,” she says. The built-in bench was designed with European cafes in mind, an effect amplified by the glimpse of the striped awning just outside the window. “The combination of deep navy, creamy off-white, and warm wood tones creates a cozy yet refined atmosphere. This mix adds depth and character to the space — echoing the effortless charm and relaxed elegance of a European café.”