I recently had the chance to photograph Heights House in Raleigh—a historic 1858 Italianate-style mansion turned boutique hotel. From the moment I walked in, it was clear this space is something special. It’s elegant without being overdone, and it feels both elevated and comfortable at the same time.

I was brought on to photograph interiors and lifestyle moments, and to create a short mood video that captured the overall feel of the property. The goal was to show not just what the space looks like, but how it feels to be there.

Design-wise, every detail at Heights House is thoughtfully chosen. The original architecture is stunning—arched doorways, tall ceilings, huge windows—and it’s been paired with timeless furniture, art, and textures that add a sense of calm and warmth. The color palette is soft and neutral, which made it easy to let the natural light and shadows do their thing.

For the lifestyle portion, I wanted to show those quiet, in-between moments: coffee in the parlor, sunlight moving across the floor, a breeze through the open windows. The kind of details that make a stay memorable.

This project was a true favorite—beautiful interiors, a team that really cares about the experience they’re creating, and a space that feels like a hidden gem in the middle of Raleigh.

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Orange County, Laguna Beach House offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This boutique hotel combines coastal charm with modern comfort, providing guests with a serene haven just steps away from the Pacific Ocean.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the laid-back vibe of Laguna Beach. The hotel's design features clean lines, natural materials, an excellent vintage collection in the lobby (complete with a signature scent!) and pops of coastal colors, creating a space that is both inviting and stylish. Surfer-chic is the overall vibe with kilim rugs, a rack of surfboards, and a shelf of kooky knick-knacks that will charm you.

Laguna Beach House has an old school motel vibe in an updated and fresh sense. Each room has a small shoppable area as well as snacks for purchase. The pool is a very welcome retreat if you wish for a quieter and less windy experience than the beach, which is just a block away.

What truly sets Laguna Beach House apart is its warm and attentive service. The staff is dedicated to making each guest's stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, offering personalized recommendations and assistance whenever needed. Whether you're looking for dining suggestions, planning a day of activities, or simply need extra towels for the beach, the team at Laguna Beach House is always on hand to help.

Laguna Beach House is ideally located for exploring all that Orange County has to offer. Just steps away from the beach, guests can spend their days soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, or exploring the nearby shops and galleries. The hotel also provides easy access to popular attractions such as Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, and the stunning natural beauty of Crystal Cove State Park. With on-site parking, you can just walk down the street to get to the best Laguna Beach has to offer.

It was a pleasure to photograph this boutique hotel! Thank you for your generous hospitality, Laguna Beach House!