Classic Beach Cottages, Steeped in Carmel’s Past, Lovingly Restored
Background
The Carmel Retreats cottages were built in 1923. Even then, Carmel-by-the-Sea was a creative haven and home to approximately 450 residents, attracting artists, writers and Hollywood stars throughout the years. John Steinbeck, Jack London, Clint Eastwood, Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Robinson Jeffers are a few of the most notable.
These cottages were among the earliest beach houses in this creative community. The family of Eliza Yocum - an English teacher from Iowa raising three young children on her own at the time - were the first and only owners until I bought the property in 2013 and started restoring the cottages and gardens to their original charm.
Enjoy the sun-drenched rooms of our 2BR/2BA main house (see pics)
Historic character with contemporary comforts
Fixing up old homes has been my passion for over twenty years. These Carmel Retreats cottages are my all-time favorite restoration.
Every older house has a soul, and upon seeing them for the first time I immediately felt connected to these cottages. During the restoration, I was able to preserve the wavy pane windows, thumb latch hardware, clawfoot tub, original pinewood plank floors, and the original Carmel stone fireplace (where, I’m told, the Yocums may have simmered abalone stew).
Of course, I replaced the structural systems to meet modern building codes, invested in quality (and comfy!) furnishings, and added contemporary comforts and luxuries in both cottages.
The studio guest house boasts a large king bed with Belgian linen duvet (see pics)
Guests may rent both cottages to accommodate six adults
Although both cottages offer their own private settings, they are situated on adjoining lots and guests may rent both cottages together to accommodate up to six adults. The studio guest house is ideal for in-laws, personal assistants, and of course family and friends.
A look back in time…
Eliza Yocum
Back in the day, Eliza would read poems by her favorite authors while sitting in a rocking chair by the fireplace. Note that the original Carmel stone fireplace has been restored and is the same one still in use today (see pic of main house above).