California Contemporary — Color & Whimsy on the Bluff

Hanging on the bluff with a sweeping view of the Monterey Bay, the Assar residence is like being on the bow of a cruise ship. Entering through the brilliant red entry doors one is awestruck by the height and length of the 60 foot long corridor leading to the bluff terrace, accented by a contemporary floor tile mosaic of primary colors and geometric shapes designed by Kay Heizman. The 28 -foot high ridge skylight covering this extraordinary hallway, creates beautiful natural light illuminating the tile graphic, art gallery, and whimsical sculptures and accessories that owners Mike and Joyce Assar have collected on their travels.

Whether custom tile or custom furniture the Assars were never afraid to let Kay create rooms full of vibrant colors. It became an inside joke between Kay and Joyce Assar as she was embarking on a design for their seventh bathroom that “there were no more bright colors left in the Sharpie pen set.” Somehow, finding another one was never a problem for Joyce. Peeking into her art studio it all makes sense. Boxes of colorful tile chips line the walls waiting to be incorporated into her next art project.

Casual and welcoming, this residence is truly a reflection of the owners and their attitude. If there is ever a foggy day, no one is aware of it when you enter this residence. Only sunshine and laughter abound in the “happy house” they have created.