LILACS AND LAUGHTER – A COTTAGE BUILT IN THE COMSTOCK MANNER
I continue to stroll by “Lilacs and Laughter” on my walks around Carmel.
The first time I write about this cottage, I use it as an example of what makes a cottage a “fairytale cottage”.
It is late on a Sunday afternoon and as I return home ,I see the “OPEN HOUSE” sign. Oh boy!
I have my camera with me.
I enter the front gate and knock on the door.
The realtor is about to close up but lets me take a quick tour.
She tickles me as she describes this whimsical home as “more Comstock than a Comstock”.
It is at once clear that although built in 1992, the owners hearts live in the 1920’s.
The long living room
is bathed in light coming in the large bay window on the south.
The high ceiling with its wooden beams is spectacular.
The owners have built a book shelf that encircles the whole room,
filled it with books and provided a large fireplace and cozy chairs to curl up in.
I can not help but think of one of my favorite quotes from the English Poet, Abraham Cowler:
“May I a small house and large garden have,
And a few friends, and many Books, both true,
Both wise, and Both delightful too.”
Immediately to my right is the master bedroom, simple and light filled.
I particularly admire an old print of a cottage that hangs on the wall.
The bath is very small but made charming by such details as the shower tile.
I love the rounded doors.
I walk through the living room , past the realtor reading a book in the corner, and admire the kitchen with its stone floor and adjoining breakfast room.
The dishwasher door blends with the cabinetry
and the back splash contains some unique tiles.
The second bedroom and bath can only be accessed from exterior stairs,
giving it a “treehouse feeling”.
I admire the deck railing
and start the climb.
The room is cozy with its blue and white color scheme and wooden plank floors, walls and ceiling.
The bath is tucked into the turret.
From the top of the stairs I have a dizzying view of the deck
and back yard.
Even the window of the garage has received the “fairytale” treatment.
The realtor is ready to close up so I scoot out the door and up the drive, looking back to admire that wonderful bay window.
Mr. Comstock would appreciate the character of this home. Imitation is the highest form of flattery.
Once upon a time..Tales from Carmel by the Sea 
Just as delightful inside as out. I love that bay window and those ceiling beams, the stone floor, and those arched doors – especially the one with the wavy muntins. Lucky timing to catch the tour. What’s the price? Just curious. Are the owners the ones who built it? Whoever did had lots of fun with the Comstock vernacular. I wonder why anyone would want to leave such a dreamy storybook cottage.
Price is $1,395,000. Wish I had it!
I have been looking at this cottage for a few days and just crying inside. I am with Annie on this one: I wish I had it. Well, I will be living in my dream cottage then it is the time to do so. I am very greatful to you, Linda, to creating this amazing blog. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I just discovered your blog today and I am loving it…….I haven’t been to Carmel (yet!), but have always been a big fan of the storybook houses……it is fun to see the homes and shops through your lens.
Thank you for sharing your lovely, dream-inspiring pics with us. I have been looking for this for years! They are delightful! God bless you richly.
How did you attach the panel on the dishwasher? It looks great! Thanks!
How did you attach the panel to the dishwasher? It looks great!
I, too have been in this cottage during an open house. I thought that all I needed was my toothbrush and I could have moved in. When I saw it it was decorated in Pierre Deux fabrics.