COASTAL COTTAGES
A HEAVENLY HAVEN
BUZZ
COURTESY OF CRYSTAL COVE CONSERVANCY
COASTAL COTTAGES
After years of planning and fundraising , the first batch of restored North Beach cottages at Crystal Cove State Park were released for overnight rentals last winter . The completed eight cottages were made available for rent after Crystal Cove Conservancy received the final tranche of funding to finish the North Beach cottage restoration project . This was possible due to an investment by Bank of America and the federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program ; this uses tax credits to encourage private sector investment in restoration efforts . With funding in hand , work continues on the final nine cottages , which are expected to be completed by early 2026 . To preserve these historic treasures , the cottages are being meticulously rebuilt brick by brick . The conservancy worked with state park historians to scour the archives and met with those who originally lived in the cottages to preserve each structure ’ s original quirks . Conservancy founder Laura Davick led the fundraising campaign , which involved community and corporate donations as well as assistance from political leaders . For example , state Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris helped the conservancy secure more than $ 30 million in state funding . By renting out the cottages , the organization raises funds for its science , engineering , technology and mathematics education programs as well as conservation efforts . The reservation system opens for booking at 8 a . m . daily on a six-month rolling window . ( crystalcove . org ) — S . S .
A HEAVENLY HAVEN
Whether you ’ re an out-of-towner looking for the perfect hotel for your crew or an Orange County local seeking a serene staycation , Montage Laguna Beach has got you covered with not just its resort rooms but also its collection of villas . The largest of the bunch , Villa Le Ciel , is located on the north side of the property and rings in at 3,000 square feet . With the ability to sleep up to 10 guests , the three-bedroom villa , designed by Jeffrey Maynard of Maynard Design , features a modern design with touches of Japanese minimalism . Within , you ’ ll find textured natural stone , cashmere drapery , pendants reminiscent of Japanese lanterns , white oak cabinets , marble bathrooms , custom artwork by Japanese and Californian artists , and a private patio with panoramic ocean views . The large , shared space is perfect for spending special gatherings in style with loved ones close by , and the resort ’ s many seasonal events and dining experiences just add to the appeal . ( montage . com ) — A . R .
18 SUMMER 2024 | LATITUDE33MAGAZINE . COM