ESTERO VISTA
Forum’s Kelly Oliver designs an award-winning luxury clubhouse with unparalleled amenities and contemporary coastal design. Learn more about what influenced her design approach.
Text/Layout BECKY TRYBUS CHID, EDAC, RID, IIDA
AURORA AWARD SILVER WINNER
Congratulations on your award-winning project! Let’s dive right in. What inspired the aesthetic direction of Estero Vista? The fabric I used in the front lobby lounge chairs was truly the unicorn of this project - the perfect, rare find that tied everything together. It became the cornerstone of the entire design, inspiring every other element in the space. It brings a sense of casual coastal ease while still delivering a touch of upscale charm. The textures and finishes throughout are cozy and inviting, with layers of warmth that makes the space feel both approachable and refined.
What are your favorite interior architectural details in Estero Vista? I love how the fireplace wall turned out, especially with the flanking banquettes. They create a cozy and intimate seating area for residents to gather and relax. Once again, I was faced with the challenge of dividing a long, narrow room into purposeful, meaningful zones and the double-sided kitchen wall came to the rescue! On one side, it functions as a coffee bar, while the other side houses a full kitchenette. We painted it in one of our favorite green-toned hues; a color that adds depth, sophistication, and a grounding presence to the space.
Oliver Registered Interior Designer
Above: “ I’m obsessed with the entry lounge chairs - especially it’s beaded back spindles” says, Kelly.
Estero, Florida
What are some interesting ways you infused texture into Estero Vista? I’m obsessed with the entry lounge chairsespecially their beaded back spindles. As a big fan of mixing styles, I loved the opportunity to pair a classic black finish with a fun, bright, modern tropical upholstery on this special piece. The result is a seamless blend of modern energy and timeless antiquity. The beaded spindle detail is especially meaningful, as it echoes a wood-turning technique that dates to the 17th century and is currently enjoying a revival. It’s such a unique way to bring texture and visual interest - small in scale, but mighty in impact.
What is your favorite amenity space at Estero Vista? This is a small clubhouse, where the spaces naturally flow into one another, creating a seamless and continuous experience. I appreciate projects like this because they allow you to focus on every little detail - nothing gets overlooked. It’s truly a jewel box: compact, intentional, and full of thoughtful design moments.
How does the art support resident experience? I had the pleasure of collaborating with a friend who specializes in aerial photography of Florida. The two pieces featured at the front entry are his work, captured along the shores of Fort Myersa meaningful nod to the local landscape and the community that lives here. I felt it was essential to include artwork that was not only beautiful but also regionally specific, adding a deep layer of connection to the space. Other pieces throughout the clubhouse lean more towards an abstract or tropical style, complementing the organic, coastal-inspired design and enhancing the relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
Left: Clubroom
Below Right: Kitchen
Below: Clubroom Banquette
“It’s [the clubhouse] a jewel box: compact, intentional, and full of thoughtful design moments” says Kelly.