Costa Mesa, a city nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, is not just known for its vibrant arts scene or the sprawling South Coast Plaza but also for its delightful collection of historic homes. These older homes, with their unique architectural styles and rich histories, contribute significantly to the city’s charm, offering a glimpse into the past while providing a cozy, character-filled living environment. Here’s an exploration into the allure of older homes in Costa Mesa, detailing their architectural styles, preservation efforts, and why they continue to captivate both residents and visitors alike.
Historical Context and Architectural Styles
Costa Mesa’s history is reflected in its architecture, with homes dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here are some of the prominent styles you might encounter:
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California Bungalows: Characterized by their low, horizontal lines, wide front porches, and often stucco or wood exteriors. These homes, like the Wright House from 1933, were designed for the California climate, emphasizing indoor-outdoor living. You can find a lot of these in Westside Costa Mesa homes.
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Craftsman Homes: Known for their quality craftsmanship, these homes feature exposed beams, built-in cabinetry, and an emphasis on natural materials like wood. The Huscroft House, one of the few Craftsman-style residences designated under California’s Mills Act, is a testament to this enduring style.
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Spanish Colonial Revival: With their red tile roofs, arched doorways, and stucco walls, these homes evoke a sense of Spanish influence, which is quite fitting for California’s history.
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Mid-Century Modern: Although slightly newer, homes from this era in Costa Mesa blend seamlessly with older architecture due to their clean lines, open floor plans, and connection to nature through large windows.
Preservation and Recognition
Preserving these historic homes has become a passion project for many in Costa Mesa. The Costa Mesa Historical Society and local realtor Renee Pina have been instrumental in this effort:
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Costa Mesa Historical Society: This group has been pivotal in documenting and advocating for the preservation of historic homes. They’ve worked to raise awareness through initiatives like the annual “Historic Homes of Costa Mesa” calendar, which not only showcases these properties but also supports preservation efforts through sales.
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Mills Act: This state program offers property tax relief in exchange for the commitment to maintain and restore historic homes. However, the process in Costa Mesa can be costly, with appraisals for historical value setting potential owners back by thousands, deterring many from seeking this status. Yet, success stories like the home at 208 Magnolia St. show the benefits of this program.
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Community Efforts: Local residents and enthusiasts like John Barnett, who renovated an English Revival-style home, emphasize the importance of community involvement. He advises starting with the Historical Society for guidance on preservation efforts.
The Appeal of Older Homes
The charm of older homes in Costa Mesa isn’t just about their aesthetic appeal; it’s also about the lifestyle they offer:
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Character and Craftsmanship: Each home tells a story through its architecture, from the detailed woodwork of Craftsman homes to the timeless elegance of Spanish Colonial designs. These homes are not mass-produced; they’re crafted, offering a uniqueness that modern homes often lack.
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Community and History: Living in an older home often means being part of a community with deep roots. Like areas: College Park, Mesa Verde and Eastside Costa Mesa. It’s not uncommon for residents to learn about past owners, significant local events, or even the cultural shifts that influenced the neighborhood’s development.
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Sustainability: Older homes, when well-maintained, can be more sustainable. They’re built for the local climate, often with materials that age gracefully, reducing the need for frequent, extensive renovations.
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Investment Potential: There’s a growing appreciation for historic homes, with buyers willing to pay a premium for character. Moreover, homes under preservation programs like the Mills Act can see significant tax benefits, enhancing their investment allure.
Challenges of Owning Older Homes
However, with every charm comes a set of challenges:
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Maintenance: Older homes require more TLC. From updating electrical systems to dealing with foundational issues, the maintenance can be both costly and time-consuming.
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Modernization: Balancing modernization with historical preservation is an art. Owners must navigate how to incorporate contemporary comforts without stripping away the home’s original character. We see a lot of this in the South Coast Metro homes that have been restored.
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Regulatory Hurdles: If you’re looking into preservation programs, the red tape can be daunting. The process in Costa Mesa, involving costs and community approval, can sometimes feel prohibitive.
Future of Historic Homes in Costa Mesa
The future looks bright but complex for these historic homes:
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Development Pressures: With land values soaring, there’s a constant tug-of-war between preservation and development. The charm of Costa Mesa’s old homes often fights against the lucrative opportunities of new construction.
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Educational Outreach: More initiatives like the calendar project are needed to educate the public on the value of these homes, encouraging community support for preservation efforts.
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Adaptive Reuse: Some older homes are being creatively repurposed, maintaining their historical integrity while serving modern needs, such as turning large homes into multi-family units or community spaces.
Conclusion
The older homes of Costa Mesa are more than just structures; they’re a tapestry woven from the threads of history, culture, and community. They stand as testaments to a bygone era while offering a living experience that’s hard to replicate in newer constructions. For those willing to embrace the challenges, owning such a home is not just an investment in property but in the soul of Costa Mesa itself. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a home with character, the older homes here offer a unique, enduring charm that continues to captivate and inspire.
As we move forward, the balance between preserving this heritage and embracing modern development will define the legacy of Costa Mesa’s neighborhoods for generations to come. Here, the past, present, and future live in harmony, making every street corner a potential journey through time.
