Floor-to-ceiling glass floods the kitchen and living room with natural light. PHOTO BY MELLON STUDIO
THE PROJECT
Laguna Beach is a coveted enclave of luxury real estate featuring stately mansions seamlessly integrated into the mountains and coastline. Among its architectural gems is a distinctive home that defies a singular design label by Table Thirty Three, Laidlaw Schultz Architects and DiVita Builders. The project began in 2012 when the clients approached Scott Laidlaw with a vision for their lot, yet construction officially started in the summer of 2022. Completed in spring 2024, the multidimensional indoor-outdoor estate stands as a testament to the collaborative effort that brought this meaningful and unique home to life. “Thousands of hands touched this project—designers, builders, artisans, subcontractors and vendors—all contributing their skill, intention and expertise,” shares Table Thirty Three founder McCall Henke. “That level of collaboration is almost unfathomable, and it’s what makes the space truly luxurious.”
The central courtyard located within the home’s inner pavilion offers maximal privacy for indoor-outdoor living. PHOTO BY MELLON STUDIO
THE INSPIRATION
“The client’s desire was to do more than capture the ocean views but also create space for outdoor living and entertaining for their family and friends,” explains Scott Laidlaw of Laidlaw Schultz Architects. Situated against Crystal Cove State Park, the home features three separate wings arranged around a central courtyard anchored by an outdoor pool and spa. As for the interior design, the aesthetic evolved from a look inspired by Europe meets Bali meets California to a more expansive approach. “The only real directive we were given was to make the space ‘feel good,’” recalls Henke. “The aesthetic draws inspiration from everywhere: the raw, rich beauty of California and beyond, timeless design eras, music that stirs the soul, art that tells a story and literature that lingers in the mind.”
THE DETAILS
Such a specialty home contains many standouts in its architecture and design. “The lighting—it’s phenomenal, day or night,” emphasizes Henke, who collaborated with The Cosine on the architectural lighting. “Many of the decorative fixtures are from Apparatus, and it’s not just lighting—it’s art.”
The fixtures provide a striking contrast to the plastered walls, which are significant design elements themselves, while also delivering the warmth the clients desire. Henke adds, “This same level of care and intention extends to every detail—from the custom-designed furniture and beds to the natural stone and wood finishes, plumbing fixtures from Dornbracht and Waterworks, the tranquil spa bathroom and gym, and even the fully finished garage.”
Stunning views of Crystal Cove State Park are accessible from nearly all areas of the home. PHOTO BY MELLON STUDIO
While it’s hard to pick favorites, the kitchen holds a special place in the interior designer’s heart. The handcrafted wood cabinetry is undoubtedly a top contender, but the custom dining table and credenza—made by Henke’s father—capture the space’s character. “He’s an incredible woodworker and furniture designer, and his pieces are always part of my projects,” she shares.
Equally captivating is the glamorous lounge area, designed as a moment of escape for the homeowner. “We collaborated with a curator to restore a vintage Hi-Fi system for the space, which ties the entire mood together,” explains Henke. From the tailored albums to the carefully selected glassware, every detail enhances the lounge’s distinct vibe, creating a perfect retreat to unwind.
“The aesthetic draws inspiration from everywhere: the raw, rich beauty of California and beyond, timeless design eras, music that stirs the soul, art that tells a story and literature that lingers in the mind.”–McCall Henke
THE RESULT
As one of Table Thirty Three’s first major projects, the completed home transcends one note of inspiration and offers the clients a timeless, present space. “Every step of a project like this feels like a win. It’s a series of small victories: watching progress unfold day by day, seeing thoughtfulness and intention woven into every decision and witnessing the labor of so many skilled hands,” states Henke, who looks forward to working with Laidlaw Schultz Architects and DiVita Builders more in the future. “The true wins, though, come long after that. It’s knowing this space will be the backdrop for a lifetime of memories—the laughter, the joy and the quiet moments of reflection.”
Design Details
Type
Single-family home
Location
Laguna Beach
Interior Designer
Table Thirty Three
Architect
Laidlaw Schultz Architects
Builder
DiVita Builders
Art Advisor
Procurio
Lighting Design Collaborator
The Cosine
Styling Collaborator
Shop Heritage
Flooring and Counters
The Stone Industry
Eco Outdoor
Roman Marble
Lighting
The Cosine
Apparatus
Allied Maker
Lostine
Lambert et Fils
Coil & Drift
Audio and Visual
Fuzion3
Appliances
Subzero-Wolf
Gaggenau
Photography by: Mellon Studio
