We often hear real estate advice along the lines of “buy for the neighborhood” and “it’s better to buy the worst home on the best block than purchase the nicest home in a bad area”. There’s a lot that can be done to renovate and create a dream home, but realistically there’s minimal you can do to improve your neighborhood surroundings. This rings true for this Coronado Island house, appearing a bit uninspiring at first glance.

According to listing information, the original home was built in the exclusive seaside town in 1960 and largely remained in original condition. The property sold for $1,480,000 in 2018 and finally for $2,900,000 in 2020 upon completion of extensive renovations. Let’s take a look at what it took to command top dollar.

Despite the gorgeous locale, the ‘before’ curb appeal left much to be desired. The red brick chimney was front and center when approaching the house. Dead grass, sparse shrubs, and missing stone pavers contributed to the lackluster look.

Major reconstruction transforms the front facade. An intimate outdoor seating area complete with rocking chairs replaces the brick chimney. Scattered stone pavers create a beautiful path connecting to the main walkway.

The original side path leading to the front entryway needed attention. The faded property fence and minimal plant life was a relatively easy task for renovators to tackle.

A fresh coat of white paint along the old fence makes a huge improvement and highlighted the new green shrubbery. The roof extends to create a portico over the front entrance. A natural wood tone door acts as a warm contrast to the white siding and dark roofline trim.

Unlike several previous remodeled homes we’ve featured, which can be found here and here, this Coronado island home was taken down to the studs and the layout was completely reconfigured. This interior view of the former entryway shows the living area at the front of the house (a peak of the brick chimney hearth can be seen on the left) and a view into the kitchen.

Keeping with the light, open, and airy concept, the new home has a massive living room that connects to the kitchen. The tongue and groove ceiling planks add dimension to the otherwise neutral space.

The previous kitchen appeared unchanged from the original 1960’s construction.

Noticeably more expansive, contemporary, and fluid, the new kitchen is a showstopper. Artisan tiles extend from the countertops to the ceiling across the entire wall. Their glazed finish and irregular shape reflect light adding visual interest.

The former dining room was closed off and dated like the rest of the house — note the gold light fixture and dingy curtains that were a tad too short.

In place of a formal dining room, the builder integrates the dining area off the kitchen and living room. The fully retractable patio doors create a wide expanse connecting the living area and back yard.

The master bedroom previously featured brown carpet, silver-trimmed aluminum windows, and outdated window treatments.

To say this is the ‘after’ product of the master bedroom renovation would be a stretch. The home layout drastically changed, resulting in the master bedroom moving to the front of the house. A new covered patio complete with rocking chairs finishes the master retreat. The suite has wide plank wood floors, recessed lighting, and new french doors.

Peach-hued tiles and sink were very much in style when this home was built but did not survive the extensive renovation. The frosted bathroom window is a design feature that designers mirrored in the final product.

The new bathroom increases the appearance of height. To create this illusion a solid mirror extends vertically from counter to ceiling and spans the length of the vanity. The walk-in shower looks massive thanks to the floor-to-ceiling marble and glass shower doors.

Brimming with potential, the original backyard was a blank canvas waiting for a professional to design a functional and aesthetically desirable space.

The California room off the main kitchen and living area is a thoughtfully arranged with a large table for dining al fresco and a separate lounge area surrounding a cozy fire pit. The outdoor furniture materials are cohesive with the interior design palate of the home, creating a harmonious transition from indoors to the outside.

Modern concrete pavers create a simple and attractive pathway from the California room to the built-in barbecue area. The contemporary landscape is lush with fresh green sod, a defined hedge border along the fenceline, and new saplings.

An overhead view of the property showcases the prime Coronado Island location.

What is your favorite room in the new house? Let me know in the comments below.

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For more information and photos on this home check out the most recent listing. All images for the “Before” pictures can be found here. “After” images and Featured Image are credited to San Diego MLS.