Lakewood, FL March 2024

HOME + DESIGN

SARASOTA SMART HOMES REVOLUTION

UNIQUELY PERSONAL INTERIOR DESIGN

Essence of Home

Step into a warm embrace where the essence of home unfolds on each page, much like the joyous return after a sun-drenched day. Imagine the simple pleasures - washing off beach sand after a delightful excursion, taking a refreshing dip in the pool post a leisurely walk or bike ride to the farmers market. With the morning sunlight streaming through open sliders, marking the dawn of a new day before the heat sets in, our magazine extends an invitation to explore the universal significance and inherent value in the unique details that make each home genuinely special.

Home is not just about delectable food, stylish decor, or the thrill of celebrations and holidays like Easter. What makes it genuinely special are the people— the true heart and soul of a home.

In sharing this letter, I wanted to convey the belief that how you shape and care for your home is a reflection of who you are. This isn't just a theory; it's rooted in my experiences transforming spaces through interior design. Witnessing firsthand how thoughtful design sets the vibe of a home, influencing both residents and guests, is a perpetual wellspring of inspiration for me. As a devoted host, finding joy in small moments—lighting a candle, whipping up a treat—I'm consistently surprised by how even subtle design choices leave a lasting impression on people, whether consciously acknowledged or not. It's this tangible and authentic impact of design that propels my passion, both personally and professionally.

We feel fortunate to have immersed ourselves in the lives and endeavors of the diverse businesses and individuals shaping our city. From realtors and architects to furniture designers, sound engineers, and interior designers, our community collaborates seamlessly to craft residences that genuinely feel like home.

As you peruse this issue's pages, our hope is that you feel not only encouraged but deeply connected to the people in your city, neighborhood, and, most importantly, your home.

We're overjoyed to learn that readers extend the life of our magazine, making it a lasting piece on coffee tables or a distinctive home accessory well beyond its labeled month. Creating a valued resource in our community fills us with pride, and we remain committed to delivering this expected value each month. Thank you for inviting us into your homes.

Happy March!

EDITOR

March 2024

Jessi Neitzel | jessi.neitzel@citylifestyle.com

Brooke Bezet | brooke.bezet@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER

Tatyana Vovkulin | tatyana.vovkulin@citylifestyle.com

Kelsey Long | kelsey@olivegreyphotography.com

Michelle W. Parnell

INTRODUCING FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE: Revolutionizing Healthcare for a Better You!

Are you tired of traditional medicine treating your symptoms rather than addressing the root causes of your health issues?

Say hello to Functional Medicine, the gamechanger that is reshaping the future of healthcare and putting you back in control of your well-being.

Functional Medicine takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to your health. It recognizes that each of us is unique, with individual genetic makeup, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors influencing our well-being. Through cutting-edge diagnostic tools, including advanced laboratory testing and functional assessments, we dig deep into the root causes of your chronic condition. With this holistic understanding, we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, combining conventional medicine with evidence-based natural therapies. Together, we’ll embark on a transformative journey to restore your health and empower you to thrive.

Call to learn more and schedule your free discovery call with Dr. Pamela Chapman.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Shop local and connect with the community at Main Street Market 2: Dimitri Cup Champions at Premiere Sports Center. 3: "Mini" on-site at Sunday Polo halftime 4: Sarasota Polo Club enjoys A Vine Affair collaboration. 5: Sarasota Polo Club Match 6: 500 people attend $17.6 Million Lakewood Ranch Library opening on January 12th. 7: Families enjoyed the Manatee County fair in January

FABIAN LOPEZ

@MAINSTREETMARKETLWR

@SARASOTAPOLO

@SARASOTAPOLO

@SARASOTAPOLO

@MADISON_RENEE_MILLER

Karianne Rose

Your Physician’s & Dentist’s Real Estate Concierge

Karianne Rose is a highly accomplished REALTOR® specializing in serving medical professionals in Southwest Florida.

With a deep understanding of your unique housing needs, Karianne is the go-to professional for healthcare practitioners in the region. As the sole Certified DRS Agent in the area, her professionalism and expertise are unparalleled. Karianne provides personalized guidance and support to ensure her clients receive exceptional service throughout their real estate journey in Southwest Florida.

CONTACT KARIANNE OR VISIT doctorsonthemoveflorida.com FOR MORE INFORMATION

KARIANNE ROSE REALTOR® | RSPS, RENE, DRS Agent

m 724.777.1518 | o 941.999.1179

karianne@lwrhome.com

SL3527230

“Your Beauty Is Our Passion”

Susan Lynch PA-C, Owner

Bree Colceri LME

Diana Born APRN

Lakewood Ranch & Sarasota’s Premier Medical Spa specializing in non-surgical aesthetic injectables, regenerative aesthetics and skin enhancing procedures.

SarasotaPremierAesthetics.com

Your Kid's Urgent CareLakewood Ranch

As Central and South Florida’s

For over 70 years, Sarasota Carpet and Cleaning has been locally owned and operated, caring for hand-woven, hand-knotted, and machine-made rugs for our clients – your neighbors! Whether a Persian Shiraz, an antique Navajo, an art-deco Chinese, or a more modern choice plucked from the pages of your favorite website or catalog, we know that the best cleaning begins with understanding your rug’s construction and handling your rug most safely, prolonging the use and enjoyment of your investment.

We have the experience and expertise to understand your rug’s specific considerations with honest advice and straightforward pricing.

www.sarasotarugspa.com

Your Kid’s Urgent Care in Lakewood Ranch, FL provides exceptional and convenient healthcare to every child. The welcoming team, including Board-Certified Pediatricians, Nurse Practitioners, Medical Assistants, Lab and X-Ray Technicians, are dedicated to providing personalized attention to every child.

Specifically designed for children, the fully equipped Urgent Care facility features a child-friendly environment and pediatric-trained staff. With a laboratory, x-ray room, and procedure room, providing comprehensive care for your children's needs.

only Master Rug Cleaner™ Certified rug washing facility, we understand that not all rugs should be cleaned the same.

Lakewood Ranch Oral & Facial Surgery Opening in March

The Grand Opening of LWR Oral & Facial Surgery will be on Monday, March 11, 2024, and they are currently scheduling patients now!

Location: 7170 University PKWY, Sarasota FL 34240

Their mission is to provide premium surgical and non-surgical solutions to conditions of the oral cavity and facial complex based on principles of safety, comfort and evidence-based innovative science.

Via La Casa: Coffee and Wine Bar, Home Decor

Visit Via La Casa in San Marco Plaza in Lakewood Ranch. Discover artisanal coffee complemented by delectable pastries. Unwind in the evenings with a glass of wine in a cozy ambiance. Immerse yourself in curated home accessories and captivating local artist oil-on-canvas art. Explore the carefully chosen collection at Via la Casa, where you're invited to embrace beauty and uncover treasures enriching your home and life.

MORE SPACE PLACE

CRAFTING INNOVATIVE LIVING SPACES WITH PERSONALIZED DESIGNS

In Manatee, Sarasota & Charlotte Counties, More Space Place, owned by Tracy Young, transforms living spaces into unique works of art. As a locally female-owned franchise, it seamlessly blends local inspiration with national excellence, offering a winning combination of smart, stylish storage, and an array of custom furniture designs.

At More Space Place, the journey begins with collaborative efforts from their skilled design consultants. Working closely with homeowners, they turn abstract visions into tangible realities. Whether it's a personalized closet, a productivity-boosting home office, or an entertainment center tailored to lifestyle, More Space Place provides personalized solutions that cater to the unique needs of each family.

What sets More Space Place apart is its commitment to providing more than just storage solutions. It offers a diverse array of custom furniture designs that elevate living spaces into functional works of art. Imagine offices with personalized shelving, showcasing sports memorabilia, or laundry room organization that seamlessly combines utility with aesthetics. Pantries, garages, and cubby holes become functional and personalized pieces of art designed to fit your lifestyle.

The innovation extends to unique elements like custom-made Murphy beds. Beyond just saving space, these beds offer a practical solution for hosting guests and accommodating grandkids. Imagine effortlessly transforming any room into a comfortable guest space, complete with built-in storage. Murphy beds at More Space Place become the perfect solution for families looking to maximize their space and create versatile areas that serve multiple functions.

Lighted shelves are another standout feature of More Space Place. Offering both functionality and innovation, these lighted shelves provide illumination in places that can be difficult to see. The lighting is horizontal and makes finding your favorite things more accessible with a stylish and beautiful design. They bring a sense of sophistication to any room, making them an ideal addition for collectors and those looking to enhance their home's aesthetic appeal.

This commitment to innovation, versatility, and personalized design extends beyond homes to commercial environments. More Space Place's expertise in creating custom art closets and versatile storage solutions is evident in spaces like Living Lord Preschool, showcasing its ability to bring personalized, functional design to various settings.

Versatility is at the core of More Space Place's offerings. The extensive range of materials, finishes, and door styles provides choices that cater to diverse tastes. "You dream it, we make it" is what Tracy tells customers. This dedication to flexibility ensures that each piece of custom furniture seamlessly integrates with the overall design of the home, maintaining a harmonious aesthetic while meeting the unique preferences of homeowners.

As a locally female-owned franchise, More Space Place embodies the spirit of the community while benefiting from the quality and standards upheld by a reputable national brand. This combination ensures that customers not only receive personalized designs but also experience top-notch craftsmanship that meets and exceeds industry standards.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET

BY OLIVE GREY PHOTOGRAPHY

ARE YOU LOOKING TO MAKE A MOVE IN 2024?

Molly Higdon is a proud member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing!

This earned membership and seal gives you confidence in selecting a real estate professional with the training and resources necessary for buying and selling high-end homes. Molly has earned the Guild Elite Designation, the institute’s most prestigious designation of excellence, recognizing the best of the best with proven performance in the multi-million-dollar market.

The Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist or CLHMS logo is the symbol of luxury real estate expertise.

In addition, Molly is a member of the Keller Williams Luxury International Division. Molly focuses on delivering the best results to her clientele and their luxury properties. With nearly $60M worth of real estate sold and 100% 5-Star reviews, she has what it takes to help you with all of your Real Estate needs this year.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROOHI PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME INNOVATION

Smart Homes: A Veteran's Commitment to Service, Efficiency, Relationships

Sarasota

Meet Michael Schindele, a local tech guru turning heads in Sarasota with his company, Sarasota Smart Homes. As a veteran-owned and operated business, Michael seamlessly blends military precision with cutting-edge technology, reshaping ordinary local homes into smart sanctuaries.

Michael's military background is not just a tagline – it's a philosophy that permeates every aspect of Sarasota Smart Homes. "Service before self" is not just a saying for Michael; it's a commitment to putting his clients' needs first. As an Air Force communications enlisted member and officer, he honed his skills in the networking and telecommunications field for over 11 years. Now, his focus has shifted to providing seamless home integration and smart system upgrades for both residential and commercial spaces.

With a passion for home automation, Michael specializes in sound, lighting, security, and video systems. His decades of experience have positioned him as an expert in installing the latest technology and home innovations. "Learning how these systems work and what benefits they offer our lives is vital to implementing a plan that works for each homeowner," Michael notes.

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One key principle driving Sarasota Smart Homes is the commitment to delivering the most value for every dollar of the client's budget. Michael understands the importance of providing efficient and affordable solutions. "Each aspect of a home has the potential for improvement through technology," he explains. The planning process involves understanding the homeowner's lifestyle and carefully selecting upgrades that align with their needs and budget constraints.

For Michael, relationships are at the core of his business. He values communication and reliability, ensuring that he responds promptly

to calls and texts. "Trust is paramount, and providing great service during the install and ongoing support is crucial for homeowners to enjoy their upgrades for years to come," he emphasizes.

While the trend in smart homes leans towards wireless solutions, Michael acknowledges the reliability of hardwired systems. He prefers working with hardwiring in new construction projects, enabling him to be involved in building a comprehensive plan from the ground up. However, he recognizes the convenience that wifi, streaming, and casting bring to the table, streamlining many systems and reducing the need for extensive updates and reprogramming.

“Learning how these systems work and what benefits they offer our lives is vital to implementing a plan that works for each homeowner.”

When Michael is not transforming homes into smart sanctuaries, you might find him kicking up his heels on the dance floor. A line dancing aficionado, Michael enjoys taking a break from the tech world to indulge in the rhythmic joy of dance at Joyland in Sarasota.

Sarasota Smart Homes, led by Michael Schindele, stands as a beacon of innovation in the smart home landscape. With a commitment to service, efficiency, relationships, and the occasional line dance, Michael is not just transforming homes; he's creating personalized, technologically advanced sanctuaries tailored to each client's unique needs.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVE GREY PHOTOGRAPHY

MOLLY HIGDON HELPS GUIDE YOUR HOME JOURNEY WITH EXPERTISE, PROFESSIONALISM, AND COMMUNITY DEDICATION

REAL ESTATE LUMINARY

In the dynamic and competitive real estate landscape of Lakewood Ranch, Molly Higdon has risen toward the top. Acknowledged as one of the top 12 realtors in Sarasota in 2023 by Sarasota Magazine, Molly has not only carved a niche for herself in the industry but has

that while you cannot predict every twist and turn, you can control how you respond. Molly’s commitment and diligent effort to deliver a positive outcome for her clients is  a principle that sets her apart in the industry.

ONE OF MOLLY'S FAVORITE PROPERTIES IS 718 LINLEY ST ON LONGBOAT KEY.

also become a symbol of adaptability, integrity, community growth, and client-centered success. Molly Higdon is a member of Keller Williams Luxury International and a certified member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing.

Molly's journey into real estate began five years ago, a pivotal moment catalyzed by her and her husband's venture into flipping investment properties. Determined to enhance their real estate endeavors, Molly pursued and obtained her real estate license, marking the beginning of her transformative journey in the field.

NAVIGATING UNIQUENESS: THE CHALLENGE OF EVERY DEAL

One of the key challenges Molly faces in her role is the unique nature of each transaction. In the ever-changing real estate landscape, no two deals are exactly alike. Molly operates with the utmost professionalism, ensuring swift attention and adaptability to achieve results. Her philosophy is grounded in the belief

COMMUNITY EXPANSION AND SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT

Beyond her individual accomplishments, Molly finds beauty in the expanding community of Lakewood Ranch. She is delighted to witness the influx of people moving to the area, and the ability to discover a sense of community through the myriad of events and activities offered. Molly is particularly grateful for the strong support of small businesses in the area, fostering a vibrant and interconnected community unlike any other.

INSIGHTS FOR THE 2024 REAL ESTATE MARKET

Looking ahead to the 2024 real estate market, Molly offers valuable insights. She anticipates a strong market but notes that it will differ from the dynamics of 2023. With an increase in available inventory, buyers have more options to choose from. As for sellers, they can reap the benefits of the home price appreciation that has accumulated over the last few years. As interest

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rates continue to decline, the market is positioned favorably for both buying and selling a home in 2024. Molly's advice is to not make a move based on the market, but after examining your individual needs and goals. Molly emphasized the importance of knowing your non-negotiables and acquiring realtor representation. Realtors, according to Molly, serve as valuable resources for all things real estate, providing guidance and expertise throughout the home buying and selling process.

A MOTHER'S DEDICATION: MOLLY'S FAMILY LIFE

Beyond the bustling world of real estate, Molly is a devoted wife and mother. Married for a decade, Molly and her husband share the joys of parenthood with their seven-year-old son and five-yearold daughter. Motherhood, according to Molly, is her most cherished title, and she values the flexibility her real estate career provides, allowing her to be present and actively participate in her children's school and extracurricular life while excelling in her professional endeavors.

“MOTHERHOOD IS HER MOST CHERISHED TITLE.”

FAVORITE PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT:

718 LINLEY ST ON LONGBOAT KEY

Among the numerous properties Molly has encountered, one that holds a special place in her heart is 718 Linley St on Longboat Key. Sold in 2023, this home offers floor-to-ceiling views of the sparkling Sarasota Bay and Jewfish Key. Molly loves the vibrant sunrise views with sailboats and the convenience of being within walking distance of renowned restaurants like Shore, Mar Vista, and Whitney's. For Molly, this property embodies the essence of a perpetual vacation, a testament to the unique and captivating opportunities our area has to offer.

CONTACT MOLLY

Take the next step towards your real estate goals with the guidance of a top professional committed to delivering results and certified in luxury home marketing. Contact Molly Higdon:  molly.higdon@kw.com .

We’re passionate about cars and the people who drive them and we’d be honored to be your home for auto service and repair.

Our mission at Elite Motor Works is to provide the highest quality in reliable car repairs; we ensure complete customer satisfaction. We have found that it can be difficult to find an honest, reliable and affordable mechanic. Your search is over. At Elite Motor Works, our team treats your cars as their own, and tries to get to the bottom of issues with our thorough diagnostics and attention-to-detail. Our goal is always to make the process stress-free and fully-transparent to all guests in our garage.

We Specialize In Servicing

1,700+ Cars Repaired Per Year

400+ Five-Star Reviews

80% Repeat Customers

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION FOR AGES 6 MONTHS - 12 YEARS

Discovery Point Twelve Oaks is the premiere childcare center in the Lakewood Ranch area

PROPRIETARY CONNECTIONS CURRICULUM PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

EARLY LEARNING ASSESSMENTS

CHILDREN AND FAMILY EVENTS

PROCARE, PARENT ENGAGEMENT APP CONTACTLESS, SECURE CHECK-IN/OUT SUMMER, HOLIDAY AND SPRING BREAK CAMPS

COMMERCIAL KITCHEN/EXECUTIVE CHEF

YO U R CABINETGIRL

As an interior designer with ten years of experience in high-end custom designs and cabinetry, Jess Russo opened Your Cabinet Girl with the intent of making custom elegance affordable. “My goal is to make high-end design and a quality product attainable to everyone,” said Jess. “I love connecting with people and creating a space where they get to come home, relax, make dinner, and spend time with their families.”

INTERIOR DESIGNER JESS RUSSO CREATES BEAUTIFUL, FUNCTIONAL SPACES

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL

Jess Russo Owner of Your Cabinet Girl

Having studied the psychology of design, Jess understands the importance of perfecting the details and keeps those techniques at the forefront of her cabinet-centered designs. “I’ve learned a lot about function, flow, and how to avoid the many small things that may drive a homeowner crazy years down the road,” shared Jess. “The building and remodeling process is stressful, especially for someone who hasn’t gone through it before. Our company takes pride in making the process as seamless as possible and ensuring our clients are happy with the end result.”

For 2024, Jess anticipates design trends to include earth tones, natural woods such as white oak, and door designs with more decorative detail. In addition to keeping up with the latest trends, she also consistently brings in new products to provide clients with a wide selection of design options.

Begin your design journey by visiting yourcabinetgirl.com, viewing the informational brochure, and scheduling a consultation phone call. Follow Your Cabinet Girl on Instagram for inspirational finished projects.

events

MARCH 2ND - 3RD

The Invitational at Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach at City Field | 10:00 AM

Attendees are welcomed to a splendid 2-day art & craft show with 50 artists and makers, including Gulf Coast Custom Designs. Explore handcrafted, unique items for diverse gift ideas, from jewelry to bath & body products, hand-carved wood items, glass blowers, yard art, and more. Don't forget to bring a non-perishable food item for donation. For additional details, visit www.daniellesblueribbonevents.com

MARCH 3RD

Sunday Polo at Sarasota Polo Club

8201 Polo, Club Ln, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 10:00 AM

Sunday Polo matches are open to the public every Sunday, now through April 7th, 2024. Gates open at 10am. Join thousands of fans each week for exciting polo action, opening parade, live national anthem, theme weeks, half-time entertainment, food, drinks and traditional divot-stomping.

MARCH 3RD

Farmer's Market at Waterside

WATERSIDE PLACE: 1561 LAKEFRONT DR, LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34240 | 10:00 AM

The Lakewood Ranch Farmers' Market has quickly become a beloved weekly tradition for individuals across the region in search of farm-fresh produce, delectable prepared foods, and specialty items. In addition to the array of goodies available for purchase, you can also discover your zen in a complimentary yoga class or let the little ones unleash their creativity in weekly workshops.

Personal INTERIOR DESIGN

WITH COURTNEY PETRIN OF SAVANNAH’S HOME AND DESIGN

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECKAH LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtney Petrin and her husband, Carlin, launched Savannah’s Home and Design after stepping out on faith, selling their home in Massachusetts, and investing their nest egg into their first home renovation project here in Florida. They did all this while Courtney was pregnant with their daughter, Savannah, after whom their business is named. The brave move paid off and the Petrins have grown from flipping their first home into a full renovation and design firm.

Drawing on her education and experience in the field of clinical psychology, Courtney believes in harmoniously combining family, home, and business, a philosophy that shines through as she and her husband work with clients to create unique, personalized spaces.

“My background gives me a completely different perspective as far as creating a home experience,” shared Courtney. “I believe it helps in terms of personalizing our projects by getting to know our clients and having a relationship with them. People are eclectic and complex, which makes every project unique.  Because I delve into

getting to know their personality, their likes their dislikes, and building trust with them, I’m able to infuse my clients’ personality, cultures, and how they live into their homes. As a result, no project can really ever be cookie cutter or the same.”

Courtney thrives on the collaborative and creative process. “I love design and how it can be used in transforming people’s lives, whether it is someone’s seventh move or a second home that they’ve dreamed all their lives about having one day,” she said. “Those are the projects I love because I get to personalize it in such a magical way.”

“My background gives me a completely different perspective as far as creating a home experience,”

Part of the process with Savannah’s Design and Home means that after clients have agreed to a design plan, they allow Carlin and Courtney to work their magic while homeowners stay off-site until the work is completed. “Folks often get nervous during a renovation project because they don’t understand what they’re seeing when construction is in progress,” she explained. “I always tell people it’s like tasting a cake before it’s baked, it doesn’t look or taste right because it’s not finished. It’s the same in renovation.” Having homeowners step back from the day-to-day construction tends to make the process much less stressful for them. It allows the project to evolve organically and then they return when the mid-construction mess is finished and the final details are complete.

Although the process requires a level of trust from the homeowner, it creates a more fun experience and builds anticipation for Courtney’s favorite part, reveal day! “I love seeing people come in and be so excited about their house, truly seeing it for the first time, and realizing this is now part of their lives. It’s like the cherry on a sundae for me.”

For more information and to schedule a consultation with Courtney, visit  savannahshomeanddesign. com or email  Courtney@savannahshomeanddesign.com. Also follow Savannah’s Home and Design on Facebook and Instagram for design inspiration and to view completed projects.