Feeling– home is a sense of feeling more than anything else. For painter-photographer, Lauryn Alvarez, and multi-instrumentalist, Philippe Andre, home is a feeling of natural creativity and unconditional love. Arriving at their Costa Mesa home, we were welcomed by the warm faces of the duo and introduced to the vibrations of their new space. Connecting over some french press coffee, we couldn’t help but peek through the hallways of Lauryn’s canvas curation and Philippe’s sound selection. This place is truly an artist’s idyll and a musician’s nirvana. We found ourselves back into conversation and continued chatting away...

With a vast variety of neighborhoods in Costa Mesa, the options could seem endless. What were you two looking for in a home?

(Philippe) We wanted to find a place in Costa Mesa that could comfortably fit our two studios, as well as provide a space for growth in the home and our creative endeavors.

(Lauryn) Absolutely! The number one thing for me was finding a home that had space for each of our work! And good natural light of course.

We're obsessed with the dual-studio setup here. What is it like connecting your work to your home?

(Lauryn) It’s been great! It’s especially nice being able to jump around and do other things throughout the day. I feel like I’m working less, but way more efficiently. It has become very fun and lively between my colors and his sounds.

(Philippe) I also think there is a nice synergy in seeing Lauryn's work. She constantly inspires me to hop into my own studio. Overall, we’re both able to just breeze by the day, grabbing some food and having a little chat in between.

Costa Mesa is home to so many small businesses, artist meet-ups, and community events. What do you like the most about living in this captivating city?

(Philippe) There’s definitely an energy here in Costa Mesa that feels kindred to Los Angeles. I came from my hometown of Lake Forest, and Costa Mesa just feels alive. There’s so much going on; however, the city still feels free from being metropolitan.

(Lauryn) Not to mention all the food here! There are so many good options around this part of town.

We’re always looking forward to the weekend. What does a typical Sunday morning look like?

(Philippe) Sunday could be a quick hop out of the door; Grabbing the boards to go surfing and stopping by one of our favorite coffee shops before we paddle out.

(Lauryn) If the conditions aren’t great, then I’d say an ideal Sunday morning would be sleeping in, making a big breakfast, watching cartoons (duh), and staying in PJs until noon. 

(Philippe) Couldn’t agree more! We’ll definitely get some good food vibes for lunch and dinner, and perhaps I'll hop on the drums to let some energy out. As you can see from our two efforts, it ebbs and flows!

Sadly, the sun fades quickly this time of year. What does the perfect night-in look like?

(Lauryn) Easy. Cooking dinner together with music playing, enjoying our meal with a bottle of wine, and watching a good flick! Bonus points if we make dessert. 

(Philippe) I agree with Lo! A favorite food of ours, a good flick or show, a tasty beverage, and a dessert to round it all out. The other night, we had pizza and watched 2001: A Space Odyssey for a cosmic psychedelic trip while laying on a blow-up mattress on our floor in the living room lol.

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Let’s talk food! What’s the go-to dish?

(Lauryn) Cooking is usually a joint effort between us! Philippe cooks the protein and I cook the vegetables. If anything, he cooks for me more haha. He makes a mean pan-seared salmon. 

(Philippe) Usually a joint effort for sure; Pan-seared salmon, smoked ribeye or filet, and some tasty veggies. Lauryn has some magic with roasted peppers that I can’t seem to nail. Still trying to get my rusty cooking skills back up!

We want to hear the official Lauryn-Philippe checklist. What are the essentials to stay cozy at home?

(Lauryn) Beeswax candles, coffee and tea, and socks! I'm a big sock gal. My toes run cold these days. I also love to play some jazz for extra coziness.

(Philippe) A good combo of lamps and candles. Also some aroma therapy with Palo Santo or incense, as well as a cozy blanket and sweater.

We’re intrigued to see what your creative minds will come up with for the home. Any future house projects?

(Philippe) Just the final touches on the house! We’re always on the prowl, the same goes for the studios. Whether it’s equipment, furniture, aesthetic touches, cookware. There’s still plenty to grab to make things feel complete, but the hunt is the best part.

(Lauryn) Yep, I’m excited to keep decorating more! We try to hit up the Long Beach Flea when it comes around, as well as our favorite antique shops to find more treasures for our space.

Moving in with a partner can be a huge step forward. What have you learned the most about living together?

(Lauryn) Cohabiting with one another is such a gift. We already knew we made a great team before, but living together has made me realize how strong we really are. We balance each other really well. I also learned that I can sleep through drums being played. Who knew?!

(Philippe) Like Lauryn said; Honestly, just seeing how living together really shows the great team we've become. We have our individual strengths and areas for opportunity, but nothing ever feels like a burden or a chore. We both love listening, learning, and helping one another.

WRITER & EDITOR

Robert Minns

PHOTOGRAPHER

Katelyn Such

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