Prior to the Mexican War, over a half-million square miles of the American southwest, occupying portions of what is today seven states, were governed and controlled by vast ranchos. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, forged in 1848, brought the war to an end. In exchange for $15 million, the United States purchased the territory from Mexico, and over time the ranchos disappeared. This cottage was built in 1930 in an area where two vast ranchos met. In fact, a river-stone wall, built in 1890 to delineate the border between those ranchos, remains intact today and lines one side of the property.
Staying true to the property’s heritage, owners Elaine and Mark Schlegel, both master gardeners who maintain a thriving landscaping business in and around Carmel Valley, California, have complemented the century-old oaks and pines with an abundant combination of roses, philadelphus and jasmine, all of which have been situated within the split redwood railings bordering the property.
“Our design sensibility centers around function and beauty—both within the cottage and upon the surrounding property,” notes Elaine. Entry is made to the property through a rustic wood-and-wrought-iron gate, above which spans a dramatic stand of pink roses. Proceeding along the up-sloped pathway, guests are immediately enveloped by a sea of violet, red and blue perennials, and sets of hand-carved wooden benches and chairs tucked throughout. “The serenity of what we call our ‘outdoor living room’ is breathtaking,” says Mark. “Both of us take great inspiration just sitting, watching and listening to the wildlife and the sound of strong breezes blowing through the large oaks. We’ve lost count of the many garden design ideas that have been created while sitting in this space with a cup of tea,” he adds. “And, if I’m really in the mood for some special inspiration, I crawl up into a nearby tree house—no cell phones allowed!”
Placed lovingly within the yard is also a commemorative piece they call the Samurai Badminton Trophy. “The trophy commemorates sixteen years of summer celebrations,” says Elaine. “During each of those summers, we have planned and organized a huge party highlighted by some very serious badminton competitions. The winners names have been engraved on the trophy, and prizes are awarded each year at the dinner banquet that follows in our garden.”
The house’s exterior has a true western cedar-shingled look, with an original rock fireplace and wood windows, all of which have been painted forest green to contrast beautifully with the cedar. The pine interior walls and handcrafted pine furniture and cabinetry combine to produce a feel partly Scandinavian and partly English, making for a comfortable and eclectic contrast to the property’s early rancho heritage. The rock fireplace maintains a commanding presence within the living room. Elaine has placed a number of treasured collectibles on the mantel as well as upon the shelves of their upgraded kitchen.
A skylight brightens the living room, and clever use of indirect lighting in the master bedroom provides a reflection of warmth and color off the vaulted pine ceiling. Proudly featured in their bedroom is a painting of Pt. Sur by California landscape artist Arturo Tello. Just as Tello has captured the quality and mood of that coastal spot, so too have Elaine and Mark, through their fine taste and graceful sensibility, captured the spirit and tranquility of the Robles Del Rio.
Clean Scandinavian and English lines and tones complement the otherwise rustic living room.
A dramatic entrance to the grounds at Schlegel House.
The soft rays of a late-day sun provide just the right amount of light and warmth for an afternoon respite.
Guests are immediately enveloped by a sea of violet, red and blue perennials, and sets of hand-carved wooden benches and chairs tucked throughout.
The Samurai Badminton Trophy.
The tranquility of the cottage is preserved by an old grape-stake fence atop a stone wall.
A handcrafted mail drop just outside the property’s main gate.
The nearby oak has graced the property for well over a century.
The house’s exterior has a true western cedar-shingled look, with an original rock fireplace and wood windows, all of which have been painted forest green to contrast beautifully with the cedar.
The cottage’s front entrance and courtyard is shadowed by a wisteria tree.
Elaine’s kitchen reflects clean northern European lines.
A vase of viburnum from the cottage’s garden brightens an English pine corner desk.
Elaine’s collection of vintage pottery include pieces from Bauer and Roseville.