506 N. Palmway
Peter Robinson

One look at this cottage in 2003, and Peter Robinson was sold. Cramped, dark, exceptionally nondescript but with “good bones,” the two bedroom/one bath circa-1944 home was the perfect project for Peter, a conceptual designer by trade and director of the Oceanside Farmers Market.

The renovation began by removing a bedroom wall to extend the bath (updates include a porcelain vessel sink and marble-paved shower) and create a generous home office. Original hardwood floors were sanded and stained, and two actual portholes were added in the living room to allow more natural light. Peter expanded the kitchen, adding novel space-saving storage. Between kitchen and living room, he built “The Betty Ford Martini Bar,” whose radius granite counter is a favorite dining spot. And in the secluded backyard, he had a 30-foot pool installed—complete with swim current.

Even the landscaping is uncommon. The palm tree-lined front walk was inspired by the Bali residence of a friend. Instead of grass, there’s a bromeliad garden, which is practically maintenance free.

A 500-square-foot master suite, paralleling the pool deck, completes the transformation. Done in a soothing grey, it features a whirlpool-for-two (in the bedroom!) and a spacious bathroom whose trough sink and concrete-topped vanity double as a wine bar for entertaining. But the pièce de résistance? A custom-designed traveling platform bed that rolls poolside for Peter’s compulsory afternoon naps!

In six short years, Peter has taken an ordinary house to beyond extraordinary—with little resemblance to its original footprint and a design that takes its fun seriously!