They Reinvented the '80s Beach Condo: No Anchors, No Seashells, Just Cool Coastal Colors

Los Angeles-based interior decorator Kristi Bender, a partner at Cuff Studio, embarked on a personal project to transform an 80s beach condo in Solana Beach, just north of San Diego, into a contemporary, teen-approved retreat. Having spent her childhood summers at this very beach, where her grandparents were among the first owners at the Solana Beach and Tennis Club, Bender possessed an intimate understanding of the location. The family's decision to invest in a unit near her parents was prompted by the desire for a more relaxed lifestyle, particularly after spending time there during the quarantine with her two teenage daughters. The close-knit community and the girls' newfound freedom to explore the town and beach steps added to the appeal. The renovation of the two-bedroom condo involved significant updates. The kitchen and appliances were modernized, and durable new flooring was installed throughout. A notable addition was a 'teen loft,' carved out of a double-height ceiling area near the stairway. This space was designed as a hangout spot for her daughters and their friends, featuring sustainable floor cushions and a retro photo collage by Tezza. Bender's design approach deliberately eschewed traditional nautical and marine motifs often associated with coastal decor, opting for a fresh and unexpected color palette. The interior design moved away from conventional blues and awning stripes, embracing a modern mix of dusty pastels and earthy tones. The primary color scheme includes mauve, lilac, warm yellow, and mossy green. This unique palette was inspired by an ethereal custom wall mural from Black Crow Studios, a company Bender frequently collaborates with on Cuff Studio projects. The mural, reminiscent of misty morning beach fog, anchors the dining room, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere that brightens with the sunlight. Bender integrated custom pieces into the design, collaborating with artisans who work on Cuff furniture. Examples include a brown velvet headboard with a wavy edge and rope-wrapped light fixtures, all available for custom order through Cuff Studio. A pink tile table from Etsy vendor ModPivot and cushions from the Parisian brand The Socialite Family complement more functional items like a performance fabric sofa by Clad Home and contract-grade dining chairs by Four Hands. These selections elevate the space while maintaining durability and style. The project allowed Bender to merge her professional design expertise with her personal history, creating a stylish and inviting family retreat that reflects a modern, playful interpretation of beach living, without relying on clichéd coastal themes. The property is also available as a rental. #BeachCondo #CoastalColors #InteriorDesign #SolanaBeach #KristiBender #CuffStudio #HomeRenovation #ModernCoastal #TeenLoft #BeachCondo #CoastalColors #InteriorDesign #SolanaBeach #KristiBender #CuffStudio #HomeRenovation #ModernCoastal #TeenLoft