A few months ago, my husband and I had a little getaway trip to southern California. We were anxious to stop in for a visit with our friends, Tara Gasparian and Jeff Plapp. Tara, a jewelry designer and her husband, Jeff, an artist/educator, moved to their charming Crafstman Bungalow in 1998. At the time, the community had mere hopes that it would become the trendy neighborhood that it is today. Since then, the couple continue to impart their artistic touches on their San Diego home they share with their dog and three cats.
The bungalow is filled with art, eclectic finds and treasures from their trips to Provence and the South of France. Many of the art pieces, like the one above, are originals painted by Jeff, who majored in fine arts in college. The faux fireplace adds an architectural element and warmth to the living area.
One of a kind vintage accessories are sprinkled throughout the home. A good many of the unique curiosities are finds from antique stores, flea markets and tag sales.
Tara and Jeff's collections provides a look into the playfulness of the couple and also adds a bit of whimsy to the home's mood.
Near and dear to her heart, the dining room boasts some of Tara's most prized paintings from her father's collection. *More about Frankie the pup in a minute.
The portrait of Tara above is one of the many created by her dad, who was a favored and popular artist at the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts throughout the 70's and 80's.
Every nook and cranny of this charming home spills over with surprises. Including the kitchen who touts this fabulous 1940's O'Keefe and Merritt stove. The vintage Dutch enamel chocolate advertisement was found at The Alameda Flea Market. Colorful McCoy pottery abounds throughout the home as well.
Frankie, the couple's Papillon Chihuahua, takes a rest in the master bedroom where generous light floods in from the windows and doors that lead out to the green space and patio. The trio of 1960's mirrors above the bed are from Spain.
Prior to Tara's custom jewelry making career, she was an interior designer and a ran a vintage clothing shop. Coupled with Jeff's artistry, the two have masterfully outfitted every corner of their abode.
Above are just a few of Tara's beautifully pieces of jewelry. The majority of her line has vintage pieces incorporated into the designs; many of which she has procured from her travels. You can find out more about Tara's jewelry
here.
A little snuggle time for Frankie with my beautiful and exotic friend...
A peek into the bathroom, not surprisingly, the coolness continues....
The tour ends with a view onto the tropical feeling patio where these two artists can unwind after a busy day. Kantha cloths draped casually over the lawn chairs add a pop of color.
Obviously, my suspicion that Tara and Jeff's home would be filled to the brim with heart and soul proved true. Aside from the fact that I love these two dearly, their cozy cottage left me yearning to pay them another visit soon.
