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309 9th Street
Between Laurel Avenue and Pine Avenue
2 beds, 2 baths, 1,334 SF on a 3,600 SF lot
Built, 1992
Last sold, 2022
Maybe the most popular work of folk art in Pacific Grove, this modest 2-bedroom cottage was transformed into a landmark by a past owner, J Jackson, as his wife Sonja began losing her vision. Since Sonja could still perceive bright colors, J adorned their home in mirrors and brightly painted butterflies, to help Sonja find her way home from her daily walks.
Over the next 25 years, they covered the entire house in butterflies and mirrors, and the home became a local curiosity and tourist destination.
I love driving by this house on a sunny day, the colors really shine. I’m not sure I’d live in so recognizable a home but I love having it just a short drive away.
Three Things I Love about the Home:
1. The colors and psychedelic vibe, obviously: the home, fences, garage and yard are covered in hundreds of handcrafted butterflies but what really makes them stand out is the kaleidoscope-like variety of colors of the butterflies, backgrounds and trim: every bright, vivid and pastel shade makes an appearance.
2. Many PG homes feature some butterfly theme or accessories but I’ve never seen a home commit to the bit like this. Based upon the 2022 listing this continues inside the home, several rooms inside also boast the butterfly theming and and bright color scheme.
3. The unique design transforms a somewhat standard house into a one-of-a-kind experience and demonstrates just how much impact design can have without changing the core structure.
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