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San Clemente Journal

Bungalow J Home Décor Boutique

Sep 17, 2021 01:00PM ● By Nina Welch

Kimm Jones of Bungalow J shares her love of surrounding yourself with beautiful things.

By Nina Welch

Bungalow J has a new destination at 145 Ave. Del Mar. Owner Kimm Jones recently relocated her home décor store, moving from a best-kept-secret location in the courtyard behind Shoes on Del Mar. She was ready to open the 300 sq. ft. store in March, 2020 only to find businesses were shut down due to Covid. Once she was able to open with limitations, she was pleased to find a vacancy in the hub of downtown. Now … not only is her new location in the thick of things, she also has a creative space to explore and create flower arrangements.

Customers gravitate to Bungalow J, not only because it’s a full-service residential interior design studio, but also because it is a store filled with one-of-a-kind décor, textiles, gifts and furniture. On an over-cast Tuesday morning, two ladies from Encinitas and Carlsbad were puttering around the store and cheerfully remarked, “We like coming to San Clemente for a girls’ trip. Today, we’re celebrating our birthdays.” They loved Bungalow J, and upon leaving said, “We’ll be back.” Kimm let them know that whatever was in the store that day, wouldn’t be restocked, which offers customers unique purchasing. 

Vintage and reclaimed pieces in this boutique are from India, Morocco, Bali, and Africa along with hand-woven baskets from all over the world. Local artists’ wares include candles, abstract paintings, and coming soon, special pottery by Vick.  When asked who her customers are, Kimm stated, “My customers are design-driven and they want to purchase items that give back. A lot of businesses other than corporations give back naturally, because we know what it’s like.” 
Her office in the back is her interior design studio. She has been a designer for 37 years with a degree in Interior Design/Fashion,and she is a member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers). 

Kimm considers herself a beach person. In fact, Bungalow J is named after her first beach house. She now likes to refer to herself as a San Clemente local. She fell in love with the town when driving with her husband down the coast from Long Beach. With an instant peacefulness about her, she knew this would be her new home. Her husband asked, “How do you know?” “I just know,” she responded.  

Traveling and beach outings with her husband, Chris, and dog, Sadie, are Kimm’s hobbies. She also enjoys entertaining. “I am a lifestyle person. I love to live well, set an inviting table, and surround myself with beautiful things,” she said. 

Insta@bungalowjboutique, FB @bungalowjboutique, www.bungalowj.company.site.