History & Heritage

A bright and breezy renovation brings modern convenience and functionality while honoring the rich legacy of this vintage cottage located on Little Balboa Island.

- LAURA SHIMKO

When Pete and Angi purchased what would become “the Blue Door Cottage,” they knew it would be a labor of love. For years, they had dreamed of a home on Balboa Island, located off Newport Beach on the southern California coast. The island holds a special place in their hearts, as it's where they met. The opportunity came to purchase a cottage on smaller, lesser-known “Little Balboa Island,” and Pete saw it as a chance to create the quiet retirement getaway he and Angi had always wanted. Built-in 1928, the Crystal cottage was filled with vintage features like double Dutch doors, exposed beams, and shingles imported from the East Coast. While it was in need of some attention and care, Pete saw the possibilities. With help from designer Amanda Chappell of Amanda Chappell Design and styling by longtime family friend Claudia Reese, this cottage exudes vintage charm and breezy coastal beauty, creating the perfect island retreat.

SAVING CRYSTAL COTTAGE