The Downtown Beat by Nina Welch

There’s a quaint 1928 abode on the 100 block of Del Mar just up from the San Clemente Library. This charming historic house is no longer a residence. Owned by the Lane family, it was formerly a law office, but was transformed into a boutique nine-years-ago. 

Linda Mickelson bought the boutique two-years-ago and has brought the house back to its original state with features from the 1920s era. 

“When you walk in the front door, it’s like stepping back in time,” says Linda. 

Linda was born and raised on a farm in Oregon. After 4-H Club, she went to Oregon State, and was the first women to receive a volley ball scholarship. Then she moved to California and transferred to San Diego State, bringing her farming roots with her. Her father was an organic farmer, and she has dozens of relatives who still own farms and orchards in Oregon.

She has a natural habitat in her own garden and it is reflected in the backyard of the store with her beloved butterfly plants. She teaches classes on gardening, especially butterfly gardening, which basically is to plant the right plants to attract caterpillars and butterflies. 

As one strolls through the rooms of this romantic abode, one can find something for everyone, from brightly-painted antique chests and dressers to homemade organic, holistic, skin-care products. All antiques in the store are painted with Annie Sloan chalk paint. They are made out of real wood. 

“When family heirlooms are reused, it’s good for the environment,” says Linda. She points to a beautifully-painted chest in lime green. “This one is from the Civil War.” 

Also available in the store are baskets from Africa, surfer art and poetry and homemade gifts – all either handmade or recycled and repurposed from natural elements. She carries a large selection of Talavera Mexican pottery including Christmas trees and nativity scenes.

The Abode is a family affair. Linda’s husband, Eric, teaches all the Annie Sloane paint classes. He also fixes and paints the furniture they find while antiquing. It’s fitting that the store is full of natural, homemade and repurposed products because Linda is an environmentalist. She owned an environment company for 20 years. The couple has four grown daughters and they live in Laguna Niguel and Linda is on the Board of the Downtown Business Association.

Website: www.theabodesc.com