As someone who was born and bred in Orange County, I’ve had a front row seat to see all of the incredible changes that have taken place here over the years. I can still recall memories of visiting the Balboa Fun Zone, eating prime rib at Five Crowns in Corona del Mar and catching waves at The Wedge. Though some spots, like Five Crowns, still retain the same great look and feel as they did back in the day, others are undoubtedly transformed. It’s been a wild ride, and through it all, Newport has only continued to grow.
Over the years, I’ve seen businesses come and go—sadly, one of my favorite local joints, Perry’s Pizza, recently joined the latter group. Shopping centers have brought big name restaurants to town, residential communities have been built and local watering holes are teeming with the next generation of kids who were in diapers when I ordered my first drink (OK, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration …).
It’s a different city today, for sure—but one thing that will never change is that each neighborhood has its own style. You can’t define Newport Beach’s architecture with a single term, because—as you’ll see in this issue’s special outdoor home and design spotlight (page 61)—there’s a huge range of design influences from one end of town to the other. Mediterranean inspirations are evident in the Newport Coast estates up north, but head toward Balboa Island and you’ll find 1940s vintage cottages and Cape Cod-style homes. It’s a pairing of the old and new, and in Newport, it just works.
What I find most impressive, however, is our community’s commitment to sustainability. Not only do we have incredible homes, but also eco-minded residents and designers who are making outside spaces even “greener.” Even if it’s not in the cards to tear up your lawn in favor of native plants and succulents, there are plenty of ways you can go green with small modifications in your backyard—it’s good for the environment and, with some tips from the pros on page 68 in “A Green Thumb,” you’ll have the best-looking and most sustainable garden on your block.
In my completely biased opinion, there’s really not a better place to live. With beautiful backyards and near-perfect weather to enjoy pools, patios, fire pits and outdoor kitchens year-round (“Alfresco Affairs,” page 62), how can you go wrong?
Sincerely,
Scott Sanchez
Publisher and Chief Technology Officer
scott@firebrandmediainc.com
