Homing in on schools

Deirdre Newman

Real estate agents Sara Marvin and Mickey Rowe stood in the master

bedroom of the Cape Cod style house in Corona del Mar, admiring the

elegant eggshell finish on the walls.

Marvin and Rowe weren’t selling the house, though. They were taking in

the sights Tuesday as part of the 28th annual Home Tour that benefits the

middle school and high school in Corona del Mar.

The Corona del Mar Parent Teacher Assn. sponsored the event, which

featured five homes and is expected to raise in excess of $80,000. Most

of those funds will enrich the arts programs at the schools, said Lynn

McAlister, publicity chairwoman.

The Cape Cod, ocean-view house had its share of admirers. Patty Wayte

and Betty Cummings of Costa Mesa lingered in the office/library off the

master bedroom, admiring the eclectic knickknacks.

“It’s spectacular, it’s gorgeous. We’re just drooling,” Cummings said.

“In our library, we have so many books that we don’t have room for any

knickknacks.”

Over on Balboa Island, a Mediterranean home also evoked “oohs” and

“aahs.” The dream home of Tina and Bill Wayt is designed with French and

northern Italian touches.

Stephanie Blanchard of Santa Ana was waxing poetic about the napkin

ring holders, which sported unique ornaments like a chair or a leaf.

“They’re darling,” Blanchard said. “What’s so nice is they’ve

collected things from all over the world.”

The success of the home tour over the last 28 years is a testament to

the hard work of the volunteers and a timeless concept, said Laura Lee

Smith, one of the co-chairwomen.

“Most ladies like to look in other people’s backyards,” Smith said.

Among the many female patrons who checked out the homes were a few men

who came to peruse the unique decorating touches each home presented.

Todd Johnson, who joined wife Deborah, said he was impressed with the

Balboa Island home.

“This is the only house I’ve seen. It’s delightful, romantic, charming

and intimate,” Johnson said.

* Deirdre Newman covers education. She may be reached at (949)

574-4221 or by e-mail at o7 deirdre.newman@latimes.comf7 .