At first glance,

you might assume this beach house is in Tulum, Mexico, or perhaps Bali. Of course, peek at the architecture next door or dip into the cold Pacific and you’ll know—this is Southern California at its finest. “It’s a unique, single-lane beachfront neighborhood with a lot of character and a quiet, vintage charm,” says interior designer Rita Chan.

The homeowners are a dynamic couple from Santa Barbara, where their primary residence is located, but this property had special meaning to them. Not only is this stretch of beach known for some of the best surfing, but they were married on the sand out front years before. “As a previous lifestyle-boutique owner, the wife is highly creative and has incredible taste. Her husband is an avid surfer and waterman. He has the best energy and kept everyone laughing and smiling throughout the project,” Rita shares. “They are both retired and together they are the most youthful, hip grandparents I know, and have a very close and creative family who loves to gather, cook, create, and surf.”

“The design cues are derived from the clients’ taste for elegant, natural materials and blended with a simple material selection that would withstand the harsh marine climate,” architect Kas Seefeld tells us. “The muted exterior palette of integral-color stucco with FSC [Forest Stewardship Council certified] plantation-teak accents provides an easy neutral backdrop to vast ocean views.” For Rita, it was all about transporting them away from everyday life: “Our influences came from Mediterranean, Moroccan, and Balinese coastal style where the salty air and sandy toes contribute to the beautiful patina of materials intended to come to life with time and use. In this home, imperfections are embraced, craft using natural materials is cherished, and a rushed pace of life is left at the door.”