ONLY IN NEWPORT BEACH, CALIF., could an oceanfront, 3,837-square-foot $2.2 million production home with garage space for four cars be considered the perfect place for empty-nesters. But that's exactly the crowd that the builder targeted with Oceana's Plan 2.
Even without the Pacific views, this Spanish Colonial–style house would be a winner. Two-story massing with second-floor patios help draw attention away from housing four cars in front-facing garages. An interior courtyard acts as an outdoor room and is an unexpected and pleasing entry progression. And the grandly scaled great room takes full advantage of the ocean views.
The second floor was created with flexibility in mind. Accessed by a private stair, it can be built with a suite for guests or set up as an art studio or a second home office.
Award: Best single-family detached home—3,601 to 4,000 square feet (conventional lot); Builder: Standard Pacific Homes, Irvine, Calif.; Architect: R. Douglas Mansfield Architect, Laguna Beach, Calif.
