Ahh, San Diego — the land of sand, surf, sun, and perfect temps. It’s arguably one of the best places in which to live, and while we may be biased, America’s Finest City is also home to the tech savvy, the healthcare heroes, and the biotech brains. We are pioneers in the action sports industry (congrats Shaun White!), we’re the golf capital of the world, and we’re all about going green. We’re home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo and committed to marine biology. Our diverse culture is passionate about the arts, we savor our thriving culinary scene, and our hearts are huge when it comes to giving back. The list goes on and on, and featured here are the winners of our Readers’ Choice Best of 2010 survey. Thank you to everyone who voted, and congratulations to San Diego’s bests! Compiled by Darlene G. Davies, Elizabeth Hansen, Maria Desiderata Montana, Mia Stefanko, and Rina Van Orden
Best Architect: Holcombe Design
Holcombe Design has been building beautiful custom homes in Southern California since 1972, and has received numerous accolades including several Lily Awards from the Rancho Santa Fe Association. Specializing in architecture from the early days of California while incorporating styles from Mexico, North Africa, and the Southwest, Holcombe Design is renowned for its craftsmanship, focuses on cost-saving strategies, and ensures that the home fits the customer’s vision. (858/756-2690, www.holcombedesign.net)
Best Interior Designer: Paul Schatz
Passionate about architectural integrity and inventive use of historic and cross-cultural motifs, Paul Schatz and his Interior Design Imports team make every effort to close the communication gap between architect, builder, and client to best produce luxurious custom residential projects. (619/696-6373, www.interiordesignimports.com)
Best Real Estate Company: Barry Estates
Ranch & Coast readers consistently turn to the family-owned Barry Estates team, which has specialized in the Rancho Santa Fe market since 1985. Additional areas of expertise include Del Mar, Solana Beach, La Jolla, and Encinitas, as well as other North County communities. (858/756-4024, www.barryestates.com)
Best Antiques: The McNally Company Antiques
At their Rancho Santa Fe boutique, Connie and Bill McNally offer an unparalleled array of sophisticated 17th, 18th and 19th century Spanish Colonial, Italian, French, and English furnishings, paintings and objects d’art, and antique silver. Connie is a member of the Antique Dealers Association of California, the New York Silver Society, and the Society for American Silversmiths. (858/756-1922, www.mcnallycompanyantiques.com)
Best Furniture: Seaside Home & Le Dimora
Seaside Home takes pride in showcasing a casual yet classically elegant ensemble of finds reflecting Southern California’s seaside leisure and grand traditions. Featured luxury lines include Baker, Ralph Lauren, Century, Oscar de la Renta, Henredon Aquisitions, Janus et Cie, McGuire, and more. (858/454-0866, www.seaside-home.com)
Handpicked by Maria Barry and Cindy Cerenzie, Le Dimora’s unique offerings include top-tier furniture, accessories, gifts, interior design services, custom draperies, bedding, pillows, rugs, lighting, mirrors, flooring, dinnerware, candles, and gift ideas. This year, Ranch & Coast readers also selected Le Dimora in the Best Home Accessories category. (858/759-2709, www.ledimora.com)
Best Window Coverings/Floors: Coles Fine Flooring
As a family-operated business with the expertise of a high-end retailer, Coles has built an amazing legacy and is known for its outstanding service, selection, and value. The Coles family dedicates its success to its ethics and support of other causes. (858/481-3900, www.colesfineflooring.com)
Best Landscaping: Burl Jordan Landscape
Since 1980, Burl Jordan Landscape has been committed to providing unique and functional design, specialized construction crews, a fully-staffed customer care department, and the top landscape designers in San Diego. (760/734-1014, www.burljordanlandscapeinc.com)
EDITOR’S PICK — Best Home Accessories Boutique: Gardenology
This ever-changing Encinitas boutique brings the outdoors in, filled with pots and planters, garden artifacts, furniture, Fortunata ceramics, and fine linens. Owner Lily McIntire’s imaginative store is a wonderful place to browse for ideas and inspiration. A new boutique opens in Newport Beach this spring. (760/753-5500, www.gardenology.com) ANDREA NAVERSEN
More Best Of 2010:
