Situated on a peninsula in San Diego Bay, Coronado is a small, affluent resort city featuring world-renowned beaches and the iconic Hotel del Coronado.
Coronado, an enchanting island city, is famed not only for its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts but also for its significant military presence. Home to both the Naval Amphibious Base and Naval Air Station North Island, Coronado offers a unique blend of civilian charm and military efficiency. This dual identity enriches its history, architecture, and residential life, making it a captivating place to live, visit, and work.
A Glimpse into Coronado’s Past
In the early 19th century, long before Coronado became the vibrant community it is today, the land served as a harbor for whalers. Hide houses dotted the landscape, facilitating the processing and storage of whale hides. At this time, the land was under Spanish control. However, this changed in 1821 when Mexico gained independence from Spain. This period marked the beginning of a series of land grants and ownership changes, which eventually led to the development of modern-day Coronado.
On November 19, 1885, Elisha Babcock, Jr., Hampton Story, and Jacob Gruendike purchased the peninsula. Babcock soon brought in his brother-in-law, Heber Ingle, and Josephus Collett, a railroad stockholder, as mutual investors. Together, they formed the Coronado Beach Company on April 7, 1886, laying the groundwork for the future city.
Development of the town began swiftly. The founders divided and landscaped lots, constructed water and irrigation systems, and laid railroad tracks to ensure connectivity. On April 16, 1886, the San Diego and Coronado Ferry Company was established, with the ferry completing its inaugural run in August of that year. By November, the lots were auctioned off, and the community began to take shape.
One of the most iconic developments in Coronado was the commissioning of the Hotel Del Coronado. In March 1887, architects James and Watson Reid were hired to design this grand hotel, which opened its doors on February 19, 1888. This luxurious resort quickly became a centerpiece of the island, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Architectural Splendor: Design and Style in Coronado
The architectural landscape of Coronado is as diverse as its history. The proximity to the sea heavily influences the design of many homes, blending classic California Spanish styles with beachside cottage elements. This fusion creates a distinctive aesthetic that is both charming and functional.
The Hotel Del Coronado stands as a testament to this unique architectural heritage. This wooden Victorian beach resort is a rare surviving example of an American architectural genre that once dominated coastal towns. Its grand design and storied past continue to draw admiration from residents and visitors alike.
Space in Coronado is limited, and zoning laws predominantly allow for single-family homes. With median home values exceeding $1.5 million, residents often choose to enhance their homes’ value and functionality through various remodeling projects. This trend has created a demand for high-quality design and construction services in the area.
Murray Lampert: Building Dreams in Coronado
Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel has been a cornerstone of Coronado’s home improvement scene since 1975. Over the decades, the company has established enduring relationships with top inspectors, suppliers, and trade partners in San Diego, ensuring that every project meets the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
Murray Lampert’s reputation is built on exceptional customer service, professional design, and superior craftsmanship. The company’s commitment to these principles has earned it numerous accolades, including the BBB Torch Award for marketplace ethics and the Best of Houzz award for customer satisfaction in multiple years. Maintaining an A+ rating with the BBB, Murray Lampert is also an active member of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and Build It Green, reflecting its dedication to ethical business practices and sustainable building methods.
Comprehensive Remodeling Services
Murray Lampert offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of Coronado homeowners. These services include:
Architectural Design: The company’s staff architect works closely with clients to create personalized designs that reflect individual tastes and budgets.
3D Project Modeling: Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, Murray Lampert provides clients with 3D renderings of their projects, allowing them to visualize the finished result before construction begins.
Kitchen Remodeling: Custom kitchen remodels are designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, ensuring that the heart of the home is warm and inviting.
Bathroom Remodeling: Modernizing bathrooms with new plumbing, tub and shower installations, counters, and cabinets enhances both form and function.
Second Stories: For homeowners with limited yard space, adding a second story is an excellent way to increase living space and enjoy new views.
Room Additions: Whether it’s an extra bedroom or a dedicated home office, room additions can transform a home to better meet the needs of its occupants.
Outdoor Spaces: Coronado’s favorable climate makes it ideal for outdoor living spaces. Murray Lampert helps design and build custom outdoor areas for relaxation and entertainment.
Green Building: The company is committed to eco-friendly practices, using sustainable materials and processes to minimize environmental impact.
The Design-Build Process
Murray Lampert’s design-build process begins with a free in-home consultation. During this initial meeting, the staff architect collaborates with clients to understand their budget, tastes, and remodeling needs. Using advanced 3D rendering software, a virtual walkthrough of the proposed project is created, giving clients a clear vision of the final product.
Once the design is approved, Murray Lampert handles all aspects of the project, from securing necessary permits to coordinating with subcontractors and suppliers. This comprehensive approach ensures that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.
Coronado is a unique blend of historical charm, architectural beauty, and modern luxury. Its history as a harbor for whalers, its transformation into a resort destination, and its development into a thriving community with a strong military presence all contribute to its rich and varied character.
Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel plays a significant role in maintaining and enhancing this character by providing top-notch remodeling services that respect Coronado’s heritage while meeting the needs of its residents. Through their dedication to quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainable practices, they help ensure that Coronado remains a beautiful and desirable place to live for generations to come. Whether you are looking to remodel your kitchen, add a second story, or create an outdoor oasis, Murray Lampert has the expertise and commitment to bring your vision to life.