12 Banquette seating makes dining more comfortable, intimate, and fun.
HOME STYLES
14 Florida Cracker
Our native architecture set in motion major design features that define conventional homes.
BUILD
16 Renovation “Crisis” In Vero Beach
Many older homes need a gut renovation; few homeowners want to do it.
FINISHES
20 Jill Malek
Her wallpaper and textiles foster a profound emotional experience in the spaces we inhabit.
SMART HOME
22 Let There Be Light
The art and science of automated lighting as installed in a Frank Lloyd Wright home.
HOME DISCOVERY
26 Tropical Modern Radiance
Chris and Halle Dold built a home where the ocean dominates every view.
ARTIST TO ARTIST
30 Sculpting History
Dana King’s story is one of courage, metamorphosis, and self-discovery.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
40 The Tox
Courtney Yeager perfects a technique that blends wellness, beauty, and self-care into a single transformative experience.
FASHION
44 Monkee’s
Emily Cate applies a keen eye for style and love for helping women express themselves through fashion.
ART
48 LIV VERO Gallery 1 Artist Joshua McMiller.
FASHION
50 The Art of Tailoring
Today’s man embraces a new era of tailoring that merges sophistication with comfort and heritage with innovation.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
52 IN MOTION
Melissa Zorc curates a fashionforward hub for golf, tennis, and everyday activewear.
FASHION
54 Sabre Mochachino
Bespoke Design Company extends a career of innovation, precision, and commitment to luxury craftsmanship to Vero Beach.
JEWELRY
56 LPL Creations
“ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING.”
FASHION
34 Couture in Vero
Merging local artistry with global influences for a unique perspective on the ways fashion connects us all.
FASHION
36 LLOBYCATS
Visionary designer Stacy Boll creates clothing that transcends cultures and boundaries.
Luisana Prato continues a proud family legacy of crafting handmade customized accessories for ladies of all ages.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
58 SPENGA Studio
Christi Wade offers a unique trifecta experience—spin, strength, yoga—to uplift, empower, and transform.
ART
62 LIV VERO Gallery 2
Artist Joshua McMiller.
TRANSFORMATIVE FOOD
64 Dolly’s Table
Zach Saunders infuses his food with bold, fresh flavors to bring people together, celebrating tradition and innovation.
OUTDOORS
66 Tidal Knowledge
Time your daily walk to coincide with a low tide when berm square footage is maximized and the surf is often quieter.
LANDSCAPE
68 Focal Points
Focal points capture your immediate attention and refresh your garden’s visual interest.
LANDSCAPE
71 The Coconut Palm
The quintessential symbol of tropical paradise is the prolific, productive, and alluring coconut palm.
LANDSCAPE
76 Succulent Standouts
Because of their striking and unusual appearance, succulent species are gaining attention as ornamental and garden centerpieces.
LANDSCAPE
78 Orchid Passions
Interest in growing orchids expands each year, the appeal attributed to widespread availability, ease-of-growing, and stunning beauty.
ENTERTAIN
80 Cuvée & Co.
Sommelier Ray Granberg opens a new wine bar that’s quickly becoming a local favorite.
ENTERTAINMENT IN THE CITY
83 What’s the Tea
The pulse of Vero Beach.
85 Real Estate Section
Featured brokerages and properties for sale.
86 Real Estate Market Intel
A compendium of recent news.
96 Finito
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Crystal Lemley SENIOR DESIGNER
Gregory Ness-Vasko PRICIPAL DESIGNER
EDITORS’ LETTER
WITH SPRING COMES BEAUTY
Welcome to our April Fashion Issue! The vision and product of Chris Foster and Joshua McMiller, LIV VERO Magazine’s Creative Director and Assistant Creative Director, respectively.
Both gentlemen are veterans of the fashion industry. They bring incredible talents to photographing, directing, and writing about fashion, clearly evident from the quality of the stories they have created to engage, educate, and entertain.
The labor underlying this portfolio of work is titanic, involving a team of creatives they assembled from across the country. We are so appreciative of their dedication to this project and the superlative result.
Fashion, we know from Chris and Joshua, is both an international and local art form and high-value commodity. Their purpose from the beginning was to meld the two, with Vero Beach as the central point of reference. Their purpose—inseparable
from high fashion itself—was to push certain boundaries, to make the pages interesting, enticing, arresting—or why do it? Which aligns perfectly to LIV VERO Magazine’s ambition: to be distinctive, to surprise, to be artistically relevant, and to have readers eagerly await each new issue, each beautiful cover, and wade into the articles.
With fashion a prime example of our broadening editorial coverage, LIV VERO Magazine continues to evolve and improve. We have expanded our page count, approaching an ideal length to encourage active reading. We limit advertisements to 50% of pages, and offer only full- and half-page placements, to keep the magazine modern and sleek, showcasing our advertising partners. Finally, we will increase circulation to maximize distribution on both the island and mainland.
This issue continues our commitment to profile Vero people, Vero businesses, and Vero organizations. Commerce makes the world go round, and our mission in large part is to bring together those who offer great products and services with those who seek them. Vero Beach brims with talent in every field of endeavor. We want to spotlight these home-based assets. Every story in our pages must have a tie to Vero Beach.
We remain deeply appreciative of our readership and advertising partners. Truly so. Thank you.
Joshua McMiller.
Chris Foster.
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Optimal enjoyment of your indoor and outdoor spaces
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BANQUETTE SEATING
Making Dining More Comfortable, Intimate, Fun
by Diane Field
Banquette seating is a new favorite of mine. For one, it brings a different, inviting look and feel to a room—kitchen, living room, sun room, entryway. Second, it can be amazingly comfortable to sit in, far superior to a chair. Above all, the social milieu it creates exudes informality, warmth, and intimacy.
A banquette is a form of built-in or freestanding seating featuring a long bench, either upholstered or with cushions and pillows. A main section will be fitted along a wall with, if desired, additional sections extending to create an L- or U-shape. Banquette seating arrangements are commonly designed for dining areas—a dining table or breakfast nook—and unique architectural features such as bay windows and alcoves.
Banquettes are also known as fixed seating, booth seating, and bench seating. The pieces themselves are often custom made to fit specific dimensions—the physical space, table, chairs, etc.—while, of course, ready-made pieces in every conceivable style, size, and material may be purchased.
BANQUETTE BENEFITS
Beyond its novelty and stylish appeal, banquette seating offers a list of aesthetic and functional advantages that can transform a conventional (i.e., staid) dining area into a distinctive and welcoming enclave:
Space optimization. Floor space is maximized by eliminating the need for chairs to be pulled out, imparting a more spacious feel. A bespoke banquette can be designed to fit a space exactly, accommodating a tight corner, curved wall or table, or tight passageway.
Seating capacity. Banquette seating can accommodate more people in a given space than traditional dining arrangements. When hosting larger groups, it’s easier to squeeze extra guests into a banquette than make space for additional chairs.
Versatile style. Banquettes can incorporate a multitude of furniture styles, shapes, materials, fabrics, colors, and details to match a home’s prevailing décor or make a unique statement.
Elevated comfort. Long seats and backrests encourage people to relax, lean back, sit naturally, spread out. Scatter cushions and armrests can be added for additional comfort. Compare this to a hard, upright chair.
Social setting. Banquettes are communal, encouraging conversation, a sense of togetherness, compelling diners to spend more time at the table. The seating is unparalleled in accommodating children of all ages, allowing space for restless bodies, infant carriers, toys.
Hidden storage. Benches can include built-in storage underneath.
For decades now, American tastes in interior design have trended toward casual and comfort, eschewing long-held conventions and rules about how spaces should be used and furnished. When it comes to dining and entertainment, the fixation on formal dining rooms has waned in favor of open floor plans, combined kitchen-dining areas, and outdoor kitchen-dining alternatives. In this context, banquettes challenge the convention of table and separate chairs, offering a means for gathering people more naturally, more at ease, in greater physical comfort, more convivially. What’s not to like about this?
Bespoke dining bench made for family kitchen as solution to a tight dining space. George Smith.
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FLORIDA CRACKER
Our Native Architecture
by Jim Field photography by Joshua McMiller
Being somewhat new to Florida (seven years), I was unfamiliar with Cracker Architecture, also referred to as Southern Plantation Style. I had heard the term “Cracker” bandied about, used as a pejorative moniker. Thus, I was surprised to learn of Florida Cracker Architecture’s legitimacy.
Having figured out the name, I was immediately smitten with the style— all the various design elements that characterize Florida Cracker and make it unique. Everything just made sense to me, why a home would be designed and built this way given prevailing environmental conditions. I imagine 19th century settlers as being smart and savvy about survival and practical living, which Cracker Architecture exemplifies to a tee.
Historically, the term “Cracker” has multiple possible origins, including the use of cracked corn to make meal and sound produced by a cowboy’s whip.
CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES
The style originated in the 1800s with early structures patterned after elevated chickee huts built by Seminole Indians. The most challenging aspects of Florida’s weather—which a well-designed structure would have to deal with effectively— includes (as we know) intense sun and heat, ample rain and occasional flooding, elevated and oppressive humidity, and breezes and penetrating wind.
In such conditions, the settlers’ needs essentially narrowed down to two priorities: staying dry and staying as cool as possible. Over time, the pairing of ingenuity, experimentation, and continuous refinements produced the following design features:
Elevated foundations. Raised off the ground using piers or stilts to prevent flooding, minimize rot, reduce insect and animal infestation, and assist with ventilation.
Wood construction. Single story frame using locally sourced wood, typically pine or cypress.
Central hallway. Running from the front to the back of the home, similar to a dogtrot or shotgun house. Detached kitchens initially to avoid devastating fire.
Compass orientation. Built so that the front and back door faced the direction of the predominant winds so breezes pass straight through the house.
Gable roofs. Steep gable roofs to quickly shed rainwater and provide shade to the house. Sometimes incorporated cupolas and clerestories to vent interior heat. High ceilings to allow heat to rise and assist with airflow. Wood and, later on, metal roofs.
Large windows. Abundant in number, allowing cross ventilation, often fitted with shutters to protect interior from weather.
Wide porches. Large covered porches providing shade and a place for residents to sit outdoors. Porch often wrapped around the entire house, deep dimensions shaded walls and windows and deflected rain.
FAST-FORWARD TO TODAY
Florida Cracker architecture has had a lasting influence on the state’s architectural heritage, and many of its distinctive elements have been incorporated into American homes of all periods and styles.
Notably, contemporary versions remain popular throughout Florida, incorporating new materials, building techniques, and energy-efficient technologies. The elevated design accommodates parking beneath the home, and protection in floodprone areas. Large windows allow bright, vibrant rooms. Most retain an open floor plan with seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, and both the size and number of outdoor spaces are optimized. It seems that enjoyable and functional design stands the test of time.
Laura (Riding) Jackson Historic Home, Vero Beach. A rare, original example.
“RENOVATION CRISIS” IN VERO BEACH
Few Homeowners Step Forward to Undertake a Major Project
by Jim Field
The Vero Beach housing market is experiencing a “renovation crisis,” in that a large proportion of existing homes— many on the island, each valued in the millions of dollars—are in dire need of a serious overhaul. A second part of the crisis is that neither current homeowners nor potential buyers want to undertake the needed transformation.
The upshot of this is what you see in real estate listings every day: dated homes, in various states of disrepair, selling for significant amounts of money, many above their inherent value. A percentage eventually sell; some do not.
An intriguing question is what will happen over time to this inventory of homes, which expands in size each year?
One outcome that we see is new homeowners spending a lot of money to live in a subpar property—not what they had hoped for, to be sure, so a disappointing result for them. Another possibility is for the home to be torn down, to make room for new construction.
And then there is the aforementioned option to renovate, which is what this
article is about. For the stalwart few who are thinking about a renovation, or have already committed to a project, we offer some thoughts and pointers that we hope will make you smarter at your new job!
THE TIRED HOME
Before going further, I want to share a recent real estate experience that served as the impetus for this article. It gave me a face-to-face reminder of the quintessential candidate home for a gut renovation, bringing the “renovation crisis” to mind.
The home, located on the island, was priced at $1.6 million, to be sold in “as is” condition. Built in 1982, “improved” periodically (the kitchen, mainly), maintained sporadically. There was a $50,000 discount to cover a new roof.
Unfortunately, the entire home was tattered, worn, dated, and honestly, undesirable. The floor plan was illadapted to contemporary living—e.g., the master bathroom, with a towering ceiling, was almost the size of the master bedroom, outfitted with an enormous tub, while the shower was phone-booth
size; the living room was a “step down” (as I discovered, dangerously), apparently never used; the dining room served as an office; bedrooms were cramped and dreary.
Beyond this, walls and molding were damaged, popcorn ceilings prevailed, paint was faded and “touched up” poorly, non-impact windows were clouded, sliding doors and screens would not work. “New” kitchen appliances were actually a few years old. Spanish tile floor interspersed with carpeting. On the exterior, the pool was small and dirty, pool equipment noisy, wood fencing rotted and leaning, landscaping overgrown, past its useful lifetime, ill-kept.
Purchasing this home, you would have two realistic options. First, to live in it and endure the shabbiness. Or second, to spend a fair sum of money (nothing is inexpensive) to improve things here and there, ending up with a patchwork property. The insight for me is that once a home gets to a certain age and condition, its days ought to be numbered. Yet, nobody wants to renovate . . .
WHAT HOME BUYERS REALLY WANT
The typical home buyer on the island wants a brand-new home, or something on this level. Clean, bright, sparkling, ideal floor plan, flawless craftsmanship, best surfaces, best appliances, huge closets, and on and on. It is a universal wish list.
Accompanying this, by definition, is total rejection of anything to do with renovations of any kind. This group lacks both the energy and interest required to renovate. Many in this group probably undertook one or two renovations in their lifetime, when they were younger. But now they want to be doing other things in their spare time—translated to mean nothing that even hints of work and stress. If they are here for only part of the year, they probably aren’t familiar with the local builders, vendors, and services providers. Add it up, and renovation is out of the question: just not going to do it.
This discriminating group, however, is more than happy to purchase an already renovated home, if properly done. Furthermore, they are often willing to pay a hefty premium—say 20-25%—for the privilege. Thus, they are one cause of the “renovation crisis,” while at the same time a huge potential market for those who choose to renovate and sell.
The key, of course, when renovating, is doing it “properly.” Money will be easily attracted to an exceptional end product, and shy away from anything haphazard and thrown together. This group is pretty darn good at differentiating between a good and bad renovation.
TYPES OF RENOVATION
Not all renovations are equal. To start, there are small renovations and gut renovations. Small doesn’t necessarily equate to easier. And over time, multiple small renovations add up to what can seem like a large restoration. Gut renovations, to be warned, are one small step short of new construction. Indeed, a hard call is often whether to renovate or start from scratch, which is a great topic for another issue.
Renovations also differ by intent. Some are undertaken by current owners in preparation for selling the property. They may be home flippers, or long-term owners who understand the need to modernize. Conversely, renovations are done by new homeowners to both restore and improve the property, their plan being to live in the home over time.
In general, the quality of renovation will be higher if the intent is to live in the property, whereas renovations to sell will minimize costs to maximize return. Potential buyers should be cognizant of this equation—far too many are surprised, post-purchase, by the shoddy renovation (beneath the lipstick) they overlooked and committed to.
RENOVATION GUIDELINES AND POINTERS
This effort at helpful suggestions could fill a handbook, but here is a sampling of learning drawn from two separate gut renovations to primary residences, each spanning roughly 15 months. Mistakes will be made, so be kind to yourself—your task is to get it 95% right.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
General contractor. A project of any scale and scope should compel you to hire a general contractor. Undertake a thorough vetting process, leaving no stone unturned. The most powerful decision criteria should be positive recommendations from prior clients— interview at least three.
Project supervisor. This person will be the individual who makes or breaks your renovation, being on-site regularly. Ask the general contractor you’re considering to assign this person and interview them; execute the contract only if this person seems perfect for you.
Written contract. Hire a lawyer who specializes in residential construction and ask her/him to develop a standardized and comprehensive document. While cynical, assume what can go wrong, will go wrong—protect yourself. A great contract sets up both you and the general contractor for success, providing a means to craft solutions to speedbumps and avoid conflicts.
Budget and timeline. Devise a realistic and detailed budget, then add 25%. Choose between fixed price and costplus schemes, and do your homework to understand every nuance about how they work before deciding. Develop a detailed timeline, then add 25%. Be realistic about everything.
PROJECT PLANNING
Location. Never renovate a home in a neighborhood or location not to your liking. If you stay in the home, no matter how nice the renovation turns out, you will not be entirely happy with the property and your life as a resident. If you decide to sell, you will have made a tremendous effort only to realize a price reflecting the less than ideal surroundings—that you knew about going in.
Comparisons. Do not over-develop your property relative to comparable homes in your neighborhood or immediate area. This runs the risk of falling short of recovering a full return on your investment simply because of surrounding properties. If you seek something grand, reside in a grand area.
Dollar-for-dollar return. If you sell your home following a renovation, do not expect buyers to value and pay you for things you happened to like and invest in. Before going off and building something extreme, recognize that you are probably going to lose money on it, and move ahead only if you still covet it.
“RENOVATION CRISIS” IN VERO BEACH
Floor plan. Spend an inordinate amount of time developing and refining your floorplan. When you think you have it just right, start over and question everything, measure everything, look for new solutions. Laziness will come back to bite you; floor plans require concentration, creativity, exactitude. Mistakes can be corrected—but only early on, so monitor early construction carefully.
Electricity. Most renovations seriously underestimate the ideal number of electrical outlets throughout the home. Installation can get expensive, and this is an easy line item to reduce to hold down costs—but resist, find savings elsewhere. We live in an electronic world—everything from indispensable smartphones to entertainment systems powered by connection to the web. You do not want to be perpetually inconvenienced. Abundant outlets also support optimal lighting.
Internal doors. Everyone seems to love the open floor concept. These layouts, however, can be noisy—allowing sound waves to travel across a home. Think about it, older homes with dedicated rooms—defined by walls and doors— allowed for privacy and quiet when desired by inhabitants. The lesson here is to include some doors in your floor plan to isolate certain areas.
Stealing. Resist repurposing bedrooms into offices and entertainment spaces.
Home values are determined in part by number of bedrooms, so understand the potential financial consequences of such changes. The same goes for converting garage space into a room—particularly in stormy Florida.
PROJECT EXECUTION
Do it right. If you are like me, many renovations that you come across are inferior—poorly planned, cheap materials, slapped together. Either the budget was insufficient to produce a high-quality product, the contractors were mediocre, the homeowner was indifferent, or all of the above. When placed on the market, poor renovations are prone to attract lower bids (deservedly so.)
Neutrality. Do not over-personalize your renovation—using unusual colors and materials, unique features (e.g., that 12-person bar), unless you are absolutely certain that you will never want to sell, and if you do, you can afford to be indifferent to the proceeds. Looking through real estate listings, it is amazing to see how over-blown and outlandish some renovations are, as if paying for someone else’s bad taste is something that buyers are yearning to do.
Re-pipe. If possible, replace all copper piping with PEX or similar new materials. Copper pipes in Florida have a shortened lifespan of roughly 15 years, and water
leaks can cause significant and costly damage. Do not wait for a catastrophe to spur you into action.
Water management. Florida weather includes torrential rainstorms depositing inches of water in brief periods of time. Homeowners need to provide for rainwater, in large amounts, to be directed away from the home and surrounding property. Use your home renovation to make your home as floodproof as possible. Install gutters and large underground pipes to protect walls and foundation.
Pools. Building an inground pool is incredibly expensive, less so refurbishing an existing pool. Modern pool designs and features, however—such as sun shelfs—can limit the space available for swimming. Prioritize what you want from a pool and spa, and stick to your game plan.
Landscape. Resist the temptation to install an “instant” garden using mature specimens, which are extremely expensive. Doing so is unnecessary, since plants grow rapidly in Florida. In fact, within a few short years the challenge will shift to cutting back the landscaping to prevent it from taking over the property. Also, plant landscaping well away from the home to protect from insects and invasive animals.
Codes and permits. Ensure that all regulatory requirements are met and paperwork completed. Deficiencies can introduce significant difficulties when the home is sold. Your general contractor should oversee all of this and be accountable for full compliance.
Renovating a home can be rewarding for those who know what they are doing. An inexpensive, unwanted property can be turned into a perfect gem to be lived in forever or sold for a profit. Vero Beach is rife with promising renovation opportunities, and will remain so far into the future. However, caution should be the guiding word when scouting a project. Renovations in many ways are more complicated than new construction. Take your time, do your research, plan extensively, and ask a lot of questions.
•
•
• Featuring
•
JILL CRACMALEK
Using Design to Evoke Emotion
Interviewed by Chris Foster
With a degree in Visual Arts from Oberlin College and a lifelong passion for painting, I began my career as a graphic designer before becoming an Art Director for Starwood Hotels and Resorts. In 2008, I launched my own studio, specializing in wallpaper and textiles. I was driven by a desire to transform interior spaces and enhance the well-being of those who inhabit them.
Coming from a family of therapists and mental health professionals, the concept of wellness has been ingrained in me since childhood. This deep-rooted understanding of emotional well-being has shaped my approach to design, where I use wall art as a medium to foster calm, tranquility, and a connection to nature.
Over time, I have come to recognize how design influences emotions and mindfulness—an insight that has become the foundation of my work. I aim to create visually dynamic, sensory-rich environments that nurture, inspire, and elevate everyday experiences.
The power of design to evoke emotion became clear to me long before I started my business. More than 15 years ago, I often found solace on the rooftop of my Brooklyn apartment, watching a pigeon fancier—one of the last in the borough—guide his flock in rhythmic circles against the evening sky. The light would catch their wings as the sun set, creating a mesmerizing and almost transcendent spectacle. In those moments, I felt transported, filled with wonder, excitement, and an inexplicable sense of connection.
That experience became a blueprint for my creative philosophy. My work is no longer about capturing fleeting moments in nature but translating the emotions they inspire. Over the years, I have realized that I’m less focused on how things look and more on how they make people feel. This perspective has become central to my design process— an orchestration of color, texture, and pattern that doesn’t just catch the eye but resonates on a deeper sensory level, fostering a profound emotional experience in the spaces we inhabit.
27 West 20th Street, Suite 601 NY, NY 10011
718-207-9587
info@jillmalek.com jillmalek.com @jillmalek
LET THERE BE LIGHT
The Art and Science of Automated Lighting
by Brett Ringeisen
I have spent the past 12 wonderful years with my wife, Bunny, who was raised in Alexandria, Virginia where we now have a second home. Every time we go north, Bunny introduces me to some new cultural or natural wonder of that part of the country.
On our last trip, we toured Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House in Alexandria. Thousands of people visit Wright’s homes each year to experience his genius firsthand. He was ahead of his time in the way he used both natural and artificial lighting to enhance the living experience. His designs prioritized not only aesthetics but also the well-being of the people inside his spaces.
Many of our luxury home clients are opting for new human-centric or circadian lighting systems. This got me thinking— what would Frank Lloyd Wright do with today’s lighting technology? Imagine my surprise when I learned that Wright’s historic Taliesin West was being retrofitted with Ketra lighting. It turns out that his forward-thinking philosophy aligns perfectly with today’s lighting innovations.
A LEGACY OF LIGHT, REIMAGINED
Taliesin West, nestled in the foothills of Scottsdale, Arizona, is one of Wright’s most celebrated works. Built in 1937, it served as his winter home and an experimental lab for his architectural ideas. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Landmark.
Originally, Taliesin West was illuminated by firelight, daylight, and low-wattage incandescent bulbs, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that complemented the surrounding desert. Over time, those light sources were replaced with modern LEDs that, while energy-efficient, lacked the warmth and nuance of Wright’s original design. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation wanted a better solution—one that would restore the site’s original lighting character while embracing modern innovation.
Enter Lutron’s Ketra lighting. With its ability to produce dynamic, naturalfeeling light, Ketra was the perfect choice to bring Taliesin West’s illumination back to life. Because Ketra is a wireless system, it was installed without compromising
Wright’s historic architecture. The result? A seamless blend of old and new— honoring Wright’s legacy while enhancing the visitor experience.
THE SCIENCE OF LIGHT AND WELL-BEING
Lighting is about more than just aesthetics— it affects how we feel, how we function, and even how we sleep. Frank Lloyd Wright understood this long before modern science caught up. Today, human-centric lighting, or circadian lighting, is transforming the way we illuminate our homes.
Ketra lighting is at the forefront of this movement. It dynamically adjusts throughout the day to mimic natural sunlight, helping to regulate our biological rhythms. In the morning, it provides crisp, energizing light to help you wake up. Midday, it shifts to a balanced, natural tone that enhances focus. In the evening, it transitions to warm, candle-like hues, signaling your body that it’s time to unwind.
For anyone building or remodeling a home, this means your lighting can do more than just brighten a room—it can actively improve your quality of life.
SMART HOME LET THERE BE LIGHT
AESTHETICS MEET INNOVATION
One of the most impressive aspects of Ketra lighting is its ability to highlight architectural details. At Taliesin West, it was used to emphasize the rich textures of the desert masonry, wooden beams, and hand-crafted light fixtures.
In our homes, it can do the same—whether accentuating a piece of artwork, creating a cozy ambiance in the living room, or illuminating an outdoor space to blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
Because Ketra offers complete control over color temperature and brightness, you can fine-tune your lighting to complement your home’s materials and décor. And with smart automation, you can program it to adjust automatically, ensuring your home always looks its best.
EFFORTLESS CONTROL, SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
One of the challenges of modern home technology is ease of use. No one wants to fumble with complicated controls just to adjust a light. Ketra solves this with simple, intuitive operation. It can be controlled with typical looking switches, sleek wall-mounted keypads, or even voice commands.
Additionally, Ketra integrates seamlessly with automated shading systems like Lutron’s Palladiom shades. This combination allows you to harmonize artificial and natural light effortlessly. During the day, shades can adjust to optimize daylight while Ketra’s lighting fills in as needed. In the evening, the shades lower, and the lighting transitions to a warm, relaxing glow—all without you having to lift a finger.
THE FUTURE OF LIGHTING IN LUXURY HOMES
What happened at Taliesin West is a perfect example of how today’s technology can preserve architectural beauty while enhancing functionality. And the same principles apply to today’s luxury homes.
For those designing a new home or undertaking a remodel, lighting should be more than an afterthought. It’s an integral part of the experience—shaping the atmosphere, enhancing well-being, and showcasing the beauty of your space.
A good lighting system will respect classic design principles while leveraging cuttingedge technology. And if you think about what the curators of one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces have done with lighting, imagine what it can do for your home.
Brett Ringeisen. Director of The AudioHouse, Vero Beach, is passionate about improving the quality of lives with technology and simplifying the user experience. He is one of the pioneers in the custom home electronic industry, and writes and speaks to groups about technology trends.
TROPICAL MODERN
Where the Ocean Dominates Every View
by Jim Field
Back in August 2024, I interviewed Chris Dold for an article on the ocean-front home he was building. At the time, work had just begun on electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and window installation into the three-story concrete structure. Even at that early stage, it was readily apparent that the home was going to be a stunning, unique property.
This article completes the story. Part One reproduces the September 2024 published profile to set the stage for Part Two, my recent interview with Chris marking the formal completion of his project. During our conversation, Chris was energized, relieved, and proud to have successfully brought his vision to life, and we at LIV VERO Magazine are honored to share his tour de force with you.
PART ONE: AUGUST 1, 2024
Chris Dold traces his interest in building to family vacations in Barbados.
“There was a development being built—I was maybe 12 at the time—and according to my dad, I kept asking questions about how they built homes, how much did they cost, could they make lots of money. For whatever reason, it captured my interest. My dad says that was when the seed was planted.”
Born in South Africa, Chris’ parents relocated to Canada when he was two years old. His boyhood was typical, “ice hockey and all kinds of sports.”
He sailed competitively and earned a spot on the Canadian sailing team, which trained in Miami. “I loved everything about Miami—the city, the culture, the weather. I decided that I couldn’t live my life in a cold climate.”
While training in Miami, he worked part-time for a general contractor, then successfully secured his general contractor and real estate licenses.
“I didn’t want to be an architect strictly, a builder strictly, or a realtor strictly. Rather, I was drawn to the whole process, and that’s what our business, Dold Developments, does. We purchase the land, develop our design concepts, locate a talented architect, value-engineer the build, then sell what we’ve made. You have to know what the market wants. I love the creativity and strategy involved.”
His first project was classic: a foreclosure in Lighthouse, Florida on the Intracoastal Waterway. He submitted a low-ball bid, won, leveled the structure, rolled up his sleeves, and started. “I had no idea what I was doing. I effectively learned how to build in real time. Every night I did research, spent time on YouTube, just figured it out. Made a bunch of mistakes. But lessons learned. It ended up profitable. And I kept on going from there.”
On a golf trip, he befriended two players from Vero Beach. After repeated visits to Vero to play golf, he realized he wanted to leave Miami. “It was super busy down south, and Vero Beach was this quaint little town. I grew up in a small community, and it immediately felt like home. I absolutely love it here.”
Chris discovered an important distinction, then capitalized on it. “Homes in Miami, built in the 1950s and 1960s, were targeted to be torn down, and deservedly so. Homes in Vero Beach, in contrast, built in the 1980s, could be modernized.” Starting in 2019, he pursued high-end renovations, selling upon completion, earning a good return. “It was a great market, but I also found I wanted more.”
The “more” he wanted was freedom to create. Renovation was restrictive, tied as you are to the existing footprint, frame versus block, window sizes, ceiling heights, etc. “I wanted to get back to building from the ground up. That was my original passion, and so I redirected myself to making this happen.”
Chris’ current project is a case study in vision, innovation, and market-informed decision making. It’s as far as you can get from “cookie cutter” new construction. Which opens the door to building something extraordinary.
“I looked up and down the coast, and there wasn’t any suitable beachfront, and then I found this property. It’s irregular, no doubt—triangular shaped, on a cul de sac—but with fantastic ocean views. I got a drone and hit it at all different heights inside the building setback, and said ‘OMG, this is an amazing opportunity.’”
Chris bought the property, spent lots of time on site planning, and took his ideas to an up-and-coming architect, who came up with a “cool, stunning design to take full advantage of location.”
The home is inspiring. Three floors, 10,000 square feet. Expansive windows. Five bedrooms, five and a half baths. Threecar garage. Elevator. Game room with bar. Dedicated fitness room with golf simulator. 75-foot lap pool (partly beneath home) and main pool together shaped like an elongated light bulb. Private beach access.
“The design is Tropical Modern, which I was introduced to in Miami. To me this means a modern, clean home, but richly landscaped to merge indoor and outdoor. Key elements are glass, natural materials, jungle-like gardens.”
The floor plan reflects Chris’ extreme attentiveness to what the market says buyers want. “We offer a combination of kitchen, family room, and playroom or guest bedroom in close proximity, affording a close family dynamic. Playroom when the kids are young, easilyaccessible guestroom later on. Also, we think smaller bedrooms with large closets and generous, functional bathrooms are highly desired. Finally, we’re very thoughtful about privacy, balancing great views with concealment through design, materials, and landscaping.”
Having competed my tour, Chris and I walked together to the beachfront, then turned to look back at the home. Staring in silence, we simultaneously nodded “yes.” There was nothing in the moment to add.
PART TWO: PROJECT COMPLETION
JF: I suppose the first question to ask is whether the project turned out the way you envisioned it originally.
CD: It did. I think back to the first time I visited the empty lot. It’s hard finding oceanfront lots to begin with, and if they’re really great they’re priced crazy high. This one was positioned irregularly, but the lot size was large and the ocean views were amazing. I knew right away what I wanted to do with the house; I knew how to angle it perfectly; I could define the structure we’d want to build. Since that first time, everything we’ve done has been about realizing that initial inspiration.
HOME DISCOVERY TROPICAL MODERN RADIANCE
JF: What materials did you use, and what drove your selections?
CD: I wanted the house’s style to be Tropical Modern, which captivates me. It’s modern but not flashy. Subtly organic and very tranquil. So the style determined the materials. We chose a porcelain tile floor mimicking concrete—with a little movement in it, which works really well on the beach—medium gray, 48” by 48” pieces, the most expensive—we carried this throughout the house for unity and simplicity. We used rich, beautiful woods in the interior, black metals, brass metals, black aluminum frame windows, floorto-ceiling, mammoth views. And then consistent with Tropical Modern, comingling of indoor and outdoor living, and a tremendous investment in landscaping.
JF: And how about your surfaces?
CD: We used Cristallo and Mont Blanc Quartzite, a natural stone with a stunning appearance and durability. It features a predominantly white and translucent background with soft gray veining and warm undertones, giving it an elegant look. We wanted genuine stone, genuine materials throughout the home.
JF: Was there a challenging part of the build?
CD: Yes, definitely the kitchen, aligning it geometrically with the 20-foot sliding glass door that opens onto a huge veranda. You open the slider fully and feel like your seaside. The challenge was to precisely align the center of the kitchen island, the center of the faucet, the center of the 20-foot sliding door, the center of the veranda, with the optimal angle to the ocean, to create that drop-dead view that takes your breath away. That was the hardest thing to build, and the feature I’m proudest of.
JF: The kitchen veranda has a very subtle orange tone—what is it made of?
CD: Ipe wood, an extremely dense and durable hardwood that comes from Central and South America. It’s also known as Brazilian walnut. Its natural appearance is a rich brown color. One of the strongest woods in the world—so dense that it will sink. We treated it with a natural oil to retain the original color.
JF: The structure of the home itself—its physical presence—is commanding. Tell me about it.
CD: I’m also proud of this. The ground floor concrete is floating on piles—it’s not on the ground per se—54 piles to be exact. And then the two higher floors are concrete as well. In fact, the only wood structures in the house are the roof trusses and rafters. We invested so much money in the structural design and concrete—it’s an absolute rock. I think buyers have so much more peace of mind when you build it like a fortress.
JF: So what do you have at ground level?
CD: Only the garage, the pool, and mudroom—non-living areas. Walking into the home is really cool: I did a welcome garden as you’re walking up to the front door. It’s under the balcony, so we used shade plants, some unique, exotic
shade specimens, and I think it looks so welcoming and peaceful. Utilities are high up on the ground floor, above a worst-case flood level. The HVAC compressors and pool equipment are the only mechanicals on sand.
JF: I will say, the pool turned out spectacular.
CD. Thanks, I agree, credit to Crystal Pools. Since we had open room underneath the house, we decided to put
half the pool under the house. It looks surreal. When you’re having a pool day, you’re going to be out in the sun part of the day, and part in the shade, which is ideal. And being 75 feet long, you’re able to swim valid laps. The pool and spa are warmed by a single gas heater. You can heat the pool separately, spa separately, or both simultaneously.
JF: Furthering health and fitness, you have a sauna in the master bedroom suite.
CD: Because we angled the house, there are so-called dead spaces on each floor. We added a hidden pantry off the kitchen, and then a sauna upstairs. It worked out nicely. You look out at the ocean from the sauna.
JF: That is the central theme of this home—the ocean, viewed from nearly every space. It approaches living on a yacht.
CD: We were able to maximize the views from every room. Sitting in the family room, you look out through coconut palms to the ocean. Then in the kitchen, the same view. And when you go to the clubroom, the house angles, and again you’ve got a perfect view. And the same on the top floor in the bedrooms. It’s a marvelous way to live, and you just want to spend time in this house.
SCULPTINGRAHISTORY
Finding One’s True Self
by Joshua McMiller photography by Yuri Semenyuk
Dana King’s story is one of courage, metamorphosis, and self-discovery. A journey that moves from the rigid structures of corporate America to the raw, unfiltered truth of sculpting history.
Born into a world that urged her to follow a conventional path, King defied expectations at every turn, moving from marketing to broadcast journalism and ultimately to a life devoted to art. Today, through her sculptures, she honors the resilience of African heritage, crafting powerful representations that echo centuries of strength, struggle, and survival.
CHILDHOOD MARKED BY STRENGTH AND LOSS
King’s journey began with loss. Her father passed away when she was just one and a half years old, leaving her mother, a 27-year-old widow, to raise two children alone. Though their home was filled with love, financial security was often precarious. King learned early on that wanting something didn’t mean getting it, as her mother had to prioritize the
essentials: shelter, food, clothing, and values.
“My dad died when I was a baby,” King recalls. “My mom had no choice but to be strong. She raised us with an unwavering sense of independence.”
But King’s roots were also steeped in unconventional love. Her parents’ interracial marriage, secretly officiated in Mexico in the 1950s, was an act of defiance in a world that wasn’t ready for them. Her father, Jimmy, was the maître d’ at the country club where her mother’s family belonged. Their love story, once hidden, ultimately won over her grandfather, who confronted the relationship over a bottle of whiskey.
“When we’re done with this bottle,” her grandfather told her father, “we’ll either be best friends, or we’ll part ways forever.” By the time the last drop was poured, they had formed a lifelong bond. That legacy of resilience and determination shaped King’s path.
FROM CORPORATE AMERICA TO BROADCAST JOURNALISM
Determined to carve her own way, King became the first in her family to attend college. She pursued a career in marketing, believing it would satisfy her creative instincts, but the corporate world proved to be a space where she felt like an outsider.
“I saw a lot of posers,” she says. “People who weren’t necessarily smarter or more talented, just privileged. Success had been handed to them.”
Though she played the game well, climbing the ranks, she wasn’t fulfilled. A relentless inner voice told her there was more. That hunger led her to pivot into broadcast journalism, where she found a platform for storytelling. For 25 years, King built a successful career as a journalist, becoming a respected television anchor. But even in the newsroom, the constraints of being a woman in a public-facing industry were undeniable.
The moment she realized that aging onscreen would inevitably mean hearing, “Dana, you might want to lift your chin, fix your eyes—maybe get a facelift,” she knew it was time to go. At 48, she made the radical decision to walk away.
THE ARTIST AWAKENS
Stepping into the unknown, King enrolled at the Academy of Art in San Francisco. Initially drawn to painting, she imagined herself following in the footsteps of the old masters. But then, a weekend sculpting class changed everything.
“I didn’t even finish the class,” she recalls. “I left early, bought some clay, and started sculpting at home. I haven’t stopped since.”
For the first time in her life, she felt an unshakable sense of purpose. Sculpting wasn’t just about artistry—it was about reclaiming history. It was a way to immortalize the stories that had been erased, to give form to the ancestors whose names had been lost to time.
HONORING ANCESTORS THROUGH SCULPTURE
King’s work is deeply rooted in American history, particularly of the African diaspora. She speaks with reverence about the origins of slavery in America. “In 1619, the very first ship full of human beings came from West Africa. They left with 350 souls and arrived with 20. That was the beginning of chattel slavery, which means you were never free, and your children would become enslaved as well.”
Her sculptures ensure that the lives of those impactful beings are not forgotten. One of her most significant pieces, Monumental Reckoning, stands in Golden Gate Park, featuring 350 ancestral figures encircling the empty pedestal where a statue of Francis Scott Key once stood.
These sculptures represent the first Africans brought to America, a solemn reminder of the past and an offering of recognition in the present.
“I wanted to honor those 350 people who were displaced from everything they knew,” King explains. “Imagine never having seen a body of water, being put on
a ship with people who spoke different languages, from different tribes, and some who may have even been your enemies. They didn’t know where they were going. They might as well have been going to Mars.”
For King, art isn’t just an aesthetic endeavor—it’s a language of honor. “I make it for the people. I make it for all children and children who look like these sculptures so they can see themselves and know they have power. And they have power right now.”
BREAKING FREE FROM EXPECTATIONS
Reflecting on her journey, King acknowledges how easy it would have been to conform and stay in a corporate job,
to remain on TV, to create art that didn’t challenge, but that was never who she was.
She has no interest in creating art to be liked. “I don’t care if people love my work or hate it. I’m not making it for them. I make it because it needs to exist.”
EMPOWERING OTHERS THROUGH ART
Her art is about more than monuments— it’s about empowerment. King works with underserved communities, using sculpture to teach children that they, too, have power—the power to create, to tell their stories, and to shape their own futures.
ARTIST TO ARTIST SCULPTING HISTORY
Her mother had modeled this for her, constantly reinventing herself. After years of moving every seven years, almost as if following an unconscious rhythm, her mother joined the Peace Corps at 50, serving in the Dominican Republic and Turks and Caicos. When she arrived in Turks and Caicos, she looked around and told them, “You don’t need the Peace Corps here.” That moment left an imprint on King, teaching her that power isn’t just about having a voice, it’s about knowing when to use it.
A LIFE OF PURPOSE
Today, King’s sculptures stand as bold testaments to Resilience. Each piece tells a story, challenges the viewer, and demands engagement. “Art has always been in me,” she says. “It just took time for me to come back to it.”
Her journey reminds us that reinvention is always possible. That stepping into one’s power, whether through words, images, or bronze, can reshape narratives and ensure that voices from our collective history continue to be shared.
Her life is a work of art in itself with bold choices, deep empathy, and an unshakable belief in the power of finding one’s truest expression.
VERO COUTURE
by Chris Foster
MERGING LOCAL AND GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES
Welcome to the inaugural Fashion Issue of LIV Vero Magazine! This marks the start of a new chapter, where we delve into the vibrant world of fashion and its powerful connection to self-expression. Importantly, the stories herein speak to a planned collaboration with local designers and boutique owners, showcasing the rich talent in our community. However, fashion is a global conversation, and we also explore how international trends influence our local fashion scene. By merging local artistry with global influences, we gain a unique perspective on the ways fashion connects us all.
FASHION: FROM CONCEPT TO MARKET – A JOURNEY OF CREATIVITY AND EXPRESSION
Fashion isn’t just about clothing—it’s about how it makes us feel. Nothing quite matches the confidence derived from knowing you look good; when we feel great inside, it reflects outwardly. This issue serves as a segue into the many significant stories we believe should be highlighted in our publication—narratives of creativity, innovation, and cultural influence. We’re excited to take you on a journey through the fashion process, from concept to market, and to share tips and insights for the upcoming seasons.
THE EVOLUTION OF COUTURE: A LEGACY OF INNOVATION
Couture has long represented the pinnacle of fashion, evolving from its origins in Paris to the global stage. Today, designers are breaking boundaries with innovative materials, digital technology, and sustainable practices. Couture is no longer merely about luxury; it’s about pushing the envelope and embracing new forms of creativity. Fashion now challenges not only aesthetics but also societal expectations, redefining what is possible.
FASHION SHOOT PROCESS: BRINGING THE VISION TO LIFE
Behind every great fashion shoot lies a vision. Every detail is meticulously planned, from the garments to the location and styling. Selecting the right models is essential, as they are the storytellers who bring the designs to life. Hair and makeup, lighting, and photography all contribute to creating the perfect image that captures the mood and message of the collection. A successful shoot is a collaborative process where all elements come together to create something extraordinary.
THE POWER OF MODELS: MORE THAN SKIN DEEP
In today’s fashion world, choosing the right model goes beyond mere appearance. It involves personality, presence, and the ability of the model to connect with the garment. Diversity and inclusivity lie at the heart of modern fashion, and designers are increasingly embracing models of all body types, backgrounds, and identities. Models are not merely faces—they are influencers who shape our perceptions of beauty and style.
THE SUPERMODEL ERA: ICONS OF INFLUENCE
The supermodel era of the ‘80s and ‘90s, featuring icons like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell, transformed the fashion industry. These women were more than mere models—they were cultural icons, defining beauty and shaping trends. Today’s supermodels carry that legacy forward, with social media providing them even greater influence and reach.
“FASHION MOVES. WE FOLLOW.”
FASHION’S BOLD FUTURE: PUSHING BOUNDARIES
Fashion today is pushing more boundaries than ever. From genderneutral collections to eco-friendly fabrics, designers are embracing sustainability and technological innovation. Fashion is no longer just about appearance—it’s a means to challenge societal norms and make a statement. Couture has transformed into a space for radical creativity, where the traditional and the futuristic collide.
CONCLUSION: FASHION AS EXPRESSION
Fashion is more than just an industry— it’s a personal expression. It allows us to communicate our inner selves and connect with the world. Whether local or global, fashion transcends borders and creates a shared language that brings us together. As we continue to explore the many facets of this dynamic industry, we’re excited to share more stories and insights with you in the future. Thank you
Dress by LLOBYCATS
Style by Chris Foster
Photography by Yuri Semenyuk
LLOBYCATS
Clothing That Transcends Cultures and Boundaries
by Chris
Foster
photography by Yuri Semenyuk
Stacy Boll, the visionary designer behind LLOBYCATS, is making waves in the fashion world with her internationally recognized clothing brand. Based in Vero Beach, Stacy’s designs transcend trends, offering timeless pieces crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Since founding LLOBYCATS in 2016, her mission has been to create high-quality, accessible styles for the conscious, modern woman. Every piece is handmade, ensuring it looks beautiful and feels comfortable, empowering women to exude confidence and dynamic energy.
Stacy is inspired by her lifelong passion for fashion and art and her travels around the world. Her non-seasonal, direct-toconsumer approach keeps the brand exclusive, with each collection sold only in select locations globally.
Now, you have the rare opportunity to experience Stacy’s designs in person! On May 4th and 5th, she will host an exclusive pop-up at Quail Valley. Don’t miss your chance to take home one of her stunning pieces, each a work of art that captures her dedication to quality and style.
FASHION SHOULD ALWAYS PUSH BOUNDARIES — IT’S WHERE CREATIVITY DARES TO CHALLENGE CONVENTION.
FASHION LLOBYCATS
Follow LLOBYCATS for updates and sneak peeks: @llobycats. L L O B Y
THE TOX
A Personal Connection to Wellness and Vero Beach
by Courtney Yeager photography by Yuri Semenyuk
At The Tox, we’ve spent years perfecting a technique that blends wellness, beauty, and self-care into a single transformative experience.
As we expand across South Florida, we knew there was one location that had to remain deeply personal to us—Vero Beach. While The Tox has taken off nationwide with over 70 locations, Vero isn’t just another dot on the map for us. It’s home.
For my husband, Ryan Yeager, Vero Beach is where it all began. He grew up surrounded by the coastal charm, the tight-knit community, and the slower, intentional way of living that makes Vero Beach so special.
When we decided to bring The Tox to South Florida, we knew Vero Beach had to be the first. This wasn’t just about expanding the brand; it was about bringing something meaningful to a place that shaped Ryan’s upbringing. It was only fitting to have The Tox Vero Beach be the first South Florida location, ensuring that our signature experience is delivered with the same heart and passion that has made The Tox a movement.
A WELLNESS EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER
The Tox isn’t your average spa or wellness studio—it’s a lifestyle. Our technique, designed to promote lymphatic drainage, detoxification, and body sculpting, has become a must-try for those seeking both aesthetic and holistic benefits.
Vero Beach, with its focus on health, wellness, and a vibrant coastal lifestyle, is the perfect fit for The Tox. Whether you’re a local who enjoys long beach days or a visitor looking for a transformative selfcare experience, we’re here to make sure you feel your absolute best.
Our method is trusted by celebrities, athletes, and wellness enthusiasts worldwide, but what makes The Tox Vero Beach truly special is the personal touch. Every detail—from the space itself to the way we interact with our clients—has been infused with the care and expertise that only comes from having a true connection to the community.
A PASSION FOR EMPOWERMENT
As the founder of The Tox, I have always believed in the power of self-care. When I first developed our signature technique, it was out of a desire to give people something that not only made them look better but feel better—stronger, more confident, more in tune with their bodies. And now, bringing The Tox to Vero Beach feels like bringing that passion full circle.
For Ryan and me, this isn’t just another business venture. It’s about giving back to a place that has given so much to our family. It’s about creating a space where people can come to recharge, rejuvenate, and experience the best version of themselves.
THE TOX
If you’ve never tried The Tox, now is your chance to see what all the hype is about. And if you’re already a believer, we can’t wait to welcome you to our Vero Beach location—our home, our heart, and the next chapter in The Tox journey.
500 21st Street Suite 500-4 Vero Beach, FL
772-643-2199
thetoxtechnique.com @thetoxverobeach
MONKEE’S
A Love for High-End Fashion and Building Relationships
by Chris Foster photography by Yuri Semenyuk
Nestled in the heart of Vero Beach, Monkee’s is more than just a boutique— it’s a fashion destination curated by the passionate Emily Cate, the store’s owner. With a keen eye for style and a love for helping women express themselves through fashion, Emily has created a shop renowned for its unique blend of classic pieces, bold accessories, and exclusive brands.
Monkee’s offers a personalized shopping experience where Emily and her team take the time to understand each customer’s style and preferences. Whether you’re looking for the perfect outfit for a day out, an elegant evening, or something to refresh your wardrobe, Monkee’s is the ideal place to discover it. Emily’s dedication to quality, luxury, and customer service has made her store a beloved local gem.
Visit Monkee’s in Vero Beach and allow Emily to help you discover your next favorite fashion find!
LIVVERO GALLERY 1
“Cosmopolitan Man” by Joshua McMiller 23” x 19”
| Collage on Canvas | Framed
“Vogue Goddess” by Joshua McMiller 19” x 23”
| Collage on Canvas | Framed
THE ART OF TAILORING
The Modern Man’s Approach to Bespoke Fashion
by Chris Foster
For decades, tailoring has been synonymous with tradition—structured silhouettes, precise cuts, and the classic uniform of business people and formal affairs. But today’s man is rewriting the rules, embracing a new era of tailoring that merges sophistication with comfort and heritage with innovation.
THE NEW GENTLEMAN: TAILORING FOR THE MODERN MAN
Gone are the days when suits were stiff, rigid, and strictly reserved for boardrooms. Today’s tailoring embraces ease without sacrificing elegance. Softshouldered blazers, unstructured suits, and breathable fabrics like linen and Tencel are redefining how men dress. The modern gentleman seeks versatility— tailored pieces seamlessly transitioning from office to evening cocktails, from weddings to weekend getaways. Brands and designers are now focusing on fit and function, ensuring that a man’s suit doesn’t just look good but moves with him.
FLORIDA’S TAKE ON TAILORING: COASTAL COOL MEETS CLASSIC CRAFTSMANSHIP
In places like Vero Beach, where the ocean breeze meets an effortless sense of style, tailoring takes a relaxed yet refined approach. Lightweight fabrics, pastel hues, and deconstructed jackets create a polished look without the weight of traditional suiting. A well-tailored linen suit paired with loafers and an opencollar shirt embodies the spirit of coastal elegance, proving that sharp dressing doesn’t always have to be structured.
BESPOKE, BUT MAKE IT BOLD
Tailoring is not just about tradition but about making a statement. While classic black and navy suits remain timeless, the new wave of bespoke fashion embraces vibrant colors, unique patterns, and unconventional silhouettes. Think emerald green velvet blazers, wide-leg trousers with high waists, and doublebreasted jackets in unexpected textures. The confidence of modern tailoring lies in its ability to push boundaries, allowing men to express personality through their clothing.
THE INTERSECTION OF TAILORING & SUSTAINABILITY
The tailoring industry is undergoing a transformation in an era where sustainability is paramount. Fast fashion is taking a backseat as more men invest in high-quality, made-to-order suits designed to last a lifetime. Eco-friendly fabrics, deadstock materials, and ethical production methods are reshaping the way suits are crafted. Tailors are now offering conscious consumers the option to create garments that are both timeless and sustainable, reinforcing the idea that great style doesn’t have to come at the cost of the planet.
THE ART OF PERSONALIZATION: HOW TAILORING IS BECOMING AN EXTENSION OF IDENTITY
A well-tailored suit has always been a symbol of power and prestige, but today it is also a form of self-expression. Whether through a carefully selected lining, monogrammed cuffs, or heritage-inspired cuts, tailoring is becoming increasingly personal. Men are embracing custom suiting to tell their story—whether it is a nod to their culture, a reflection of their personality, or a tribute to timeless craftsmanship.
THE MODERN MAN DEFINES HIS SUIT, AND VICE VERSA
The world of men’s tailoring is no longer just about fitting into a mold—it is about breaking free from it. From relaxed coastal tailoring to bold, statementmaking suits, the modern man redefines dressing well. As tailoring continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: A great suit will always be a staple, but how it is worn, designed, and personalized will continue to reflect the ever-changing nature of men’s fashion.
IN MOTION
Vero Beach’s Destination for Trendy Athletic Wear
by Chris Foster photography by Yuri Semenyuk
Located on Ocean Drive, IN MOTION is more than just a sporting goods store—it’s a fashion-forward hub for golf, tennis, and everyday activewear.
Founded by Melissa Zorc, a seasoned expert with 18 years in the golf, tennis, and fitness fashion industry, IN MOTION curates the most stylish and functional pieces from top vendors.
After years of buying for private country clubs, Melissa set out to create a boutique offering versatile athletic wear that transitions effortlessly from the court to the course or the gym to the grocery store.
CHIC AND VERSATILE PERFORMANCE WEAR
IN MOTION specializes in trendy, highperformance apparel for both men and women, ensuring every piece blends style with functionality. Whether you need breathable tennis outfits, sleek golf attire, or everyday activewear, the store offers premium brands that cater to an active lifestyle.
A PERSONALIZED SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
IN MOTION’s curated selection and commitment to customer service set it apart. The knowledgeable team helps customers find the perfect fit and style, making shopping a seamless experience.
SUPPORTING THE ACTIVE VERO BEACH COMMUNITY
Beyond retail, IN MOTION is deeply involved in the local athletic scene. It sponsors events and engages with the community to promote an active lifestyle.
For those looking to combine performance with fashion, IN MOTION is the ultimate destination in Vero Beach.
From New York to Vero Beach, Redefining Bespoke Fashion
by Chris Foster photography by Sebastian Victoria
Born and raised in Louisiana, designer Sabre Mochachino has built a career of innovation, precision, and a commitment to luxury craftsmanship. Having lived and worked in New York and Los Angeles, he now brings a metropolitan edge to Florida’s fashion landscape through his brand, Mochachino: Bespoke Design Company, which has a showroom in Vero Beach.
Specializing in custom, high-end fashion, Mochachino’s company is dedicated to crafting one-of-a-kind pieces that blend modern elegance with personal expression. Whether designing for private clients, celebrities, or high-profile events, his meticulous attention to detail and artistic vision ensure that every garment makes a statement. With expertise in couture, evening wear, and tailored menswear, Mochachino effortlessly combines structure with fluidity, creating pieces that feel as luxurious as they look.
His presence in Vero Beach is a testament to the city’s burgeoning fashion culture. As a featured designer, Mochachino continues to enhance the local style scene, demonstrating that high fashion belongs on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
This April fashion issue, we celebrate Sabre Mochachino and the artistry of Mochachino: Bespoke Design Company, where fashion isn’t just worn—it is experienced.
1177 S US 1 Vero Beach, FL 772-492-9517
bespoke@mochachinolany.com @mochachinoinc
LPL CREATIONS
A Family Legacy of Crafting Beauty to Behold
by Chris Foster photography by Victoriya Knapp
For eight years now, in Vero Beach, Luisana Prato has pursued her passion of creating handmade, customized accessories for ladies of all ages.
As a child in Venezuela, she observed her grandmother making bracelets and necklaces using materials available to her at the time; she had an eye for beauty, and a self-taught ability to craft objects that others adored. Luisana absorbed what she saw.
Luisana’s mother, Sonia, in turn, inherited this curiosity and passion to create, and to this day can be found at LPL Creations on Royal Palm Pointe, one of six staff, fashioning accessories of every kind— simple, ornate, pearls, stones, palette of colors, long, short, always imaginative, eye-catching, formal or casual, fun.
Luisana herself began to create as a young girl. It was, apparent to all, a family talent and gift, a legacy, to nurture and carry forward. Finally, Luisana’s daughter, Anabella, already is very much involved, creating pieces to her tastes and those of teenage peers—the showroom has trays of clever, cute, playful items to select small, precious gifts.
What does this mean to her, this family lineage of handcrafting beautiful objects, together? “It’s magical” she says simply.
Almost a decade ago, Luisana began to make pieces in her home, for friends. She set up a small table to work at, and everything she made sold immediately. She then moved to the dining room, expanding her materials inventory and capacity, and demand overtook what she could produce. Her small business was airborne.
She opened a showroom, including her production center, on AIA just south of the 17th Street bridge, occupying the
space for three years. Then six months ago, she opened her current enterprise on Royal Palm Pointe. At first, she was apprehensive about the move—would her clientele follow her off the island? Of course they did! She absolutely loves her new space—bright, open, welcoming, just a perfect setting. Her eyes convey how grateful—how blessed—she feels for her journey thus far.
Luisana has a restless creative drive and spirit. “I love to go to the beach to sit, calm and looking and listening, and think about what I’m experiencing and what I want to create—and ideas just come. I might close my eyes to reveal what enters my mind. I wake up in the morning to find an idea has been building inside, taking shape—so it’s everywhere for me, the inspiration to invent the pieces that we make.”
What is she drawn to? “Pearls most of all. They are natural and timeless. We work with different types, each unique in size, shape, color, luster: they are so pure. And seasons introduce differing colors into our designs, yellows, blues, greens, gorgeous alone or in combinations.”
A large portion of Luisana’s output is bespoke, pieces customized for an individual or occasion. “I love to customize pieces. I listen to a client’s story, to understand their tastes and desires, and will recommend things based on intuition, a sense for what they will love. Some will bring in a dress for a special occasion, or invite me to create something for a bride, complementing the season and flowers to be used and gowns of the bridal party. It’s all very personalized—color and tone of one’s hair and skin, their attire, the setting. Everyone deserves to wear something reflecting their special beauty. That’s what we strive to do. We’re consultants and creators.”
As her business has grown, Luisana now travels to large trade shows multiple times a year, displaying a large sampling of items. Currently, she has a network of 25 or so wholesalers who purchase from her, and she in turn sources inventory from around the world.
Her website is an excellent resource for her mainstay and popular pieces. And her showroom displays one-of-a-kind creations—and is the place to go to work with Luisana directly. If you have not yet visited, expect to be greeted with warmth and smiles.
CHRISTI WADE AT SPENGA
Fostering Community Through Fitness
Interview by Chris Foster photography by Yuri Semenyuk
Christi Wade is no stranger to movement, motivation, or momentum. With a degree in Exercise and Sports Sciences from the University of Florida, she began shaping the fitness industry early in her career.
She spent over a decade with the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), traveling up and down the East Coast, certifying instructors, and inspiring countless individuals to lead healthier lives.
In 1997, alongside her husband Steve, she opened Christi’s Fitness in Vero Beach, a local staple that thrived for over twenty years. After 21 successful years, the couple sold the business, but their entrepreneurial spirit didn’t rest. They co-authored the book Together—How to Get Your Business to Thrive, sharing the wisdom they cultivated from years of experience.
In January 2022, they launched their next fitness venture: SPENGA Vero Beach.
A FRESH APPROACH TO FITNESS
Starting a fitness journey can feel intimidating, especially if you’re unsure of where to start. That’s where SPENGA comes in. Their unique trifecta—20 minutes of spin, 20 minutes of strength, and 20 minutes of yoga—delivers a dynamic, full-body experience that’s as effective as it is energizing.
“We’re here to guide you,” says Christi. “Whether you’re a beginner or getting back on track, our certified instructors offer personalized support, ensure proper form, and help you stay consistent.”
The magic lies in the balance. In a single, efficient session, you’ll elevate your heart rate, build strength, and cool down. It’s not just a workout—it’s a wellness ritual.
STRESS RELIEF STARTS HERE
Modern life is fast-paced and often overwhelming. SPENGA understands that your fitness routine should alleviate stress rather than contribute to it. Their curated sessions are designed to be empowering and restorative.
Spin for endorphins. Ignite your energy with upbeat, high-intensity cycling.
Strength for confidence. Build muscle, tone your body, and feel empowered.
Yoga for recovery. Stretch, breathe, and reset mind and body.
The outcome? A more resilient, composed you.
THE POWER OF TOGETHER
Unlike traditional gyms, SPENGA thrives on connection. Group energy fuels motivation, builds accountability, and fosters a supportive atmosphere that keeps members coming back.
“Fitness should be fun, not isolating,” says Christi. “Here, you’re part of something bigger.” Classes are led by expert coaches who challenge and encourage. You’ll laugh, sweat, and maybe even make a few friends along the way.
HYDRATION, HAPPINESS & HEALTH
Hydration is a key (yet often overlooked) piece of the fitness puzzle. SPENGA encourages members to stay consistently hydrated throughout the day—not just during workouts.
Hydration stations. To refill and refresh.
Quick tips. To maintain energy and focus.
Snack suggestions. To pair hydration with smart fuel.
These little habits lead to big gains—both in and out of the studio.
CHRISTI WADE AT SPENGA
STEP INTO YOUR POWER
SPENGA Vero Beach isn’t just another gym. It’s a boutique fitness experience designed to uplift, empower, and transform. Whether you’re here to jumpstart your journey, break through a plateau, or simply move your body with joy, Christi and her team are ready to welcome you.
Your first session is FREE. Come feel the difference for yourself.
Miracle Mile – 650 21st Street Vero Beach, FL 32960 772-758-1851 spenga.com @spengavero
LIVVERO GALLERY 2
“Vogue Goddess” by Joshua McMiller 19” x 23”
| Collage on Canvas | Framed
DOLLY’S TABLE
Bold and Fresh Flavors that Bring People Together
Interview by Chris Foster photography by Yuri Semenyuk
From a young age, Zach Saunders learned to cook alongside his mother and grandmother—an intimate, hands-on education that sparked a lifelong passion for food.
His culinary journey began in local restaurants like the Italian Grill and Carmel’s before he honed his skills at the Art Institute of South Florida. Working in renowned establishments—such as Mark’s on Las Olas and Le Bistro in Lighthouse Point—deepened his appreciation for scratch-made, clean cooking.
Seeking new challenges, he ventured to California, where he was pushed to his limit daily, shaping his craft profoundly. His journey then took him to Hawaii, where he immersed himself in the bold, fresh flavors of authentic island-style cuisine.
Returning home to Vero Beach, he had the privilege of working under Chef Chris Bireley at Osceola Bistro, an experience that further expanded his culinary perspective.
Through these experiences, the vision for Dolly’s Table was born. Named in honor of his grandmother Dolly and the family gatherings that instilled in him the power of food to bring people together, Dolly’s Table celebrates both tradition and innovation. Every dish tells a story and every meal is made with heart.
954-608-3144
dollystable.net
@dollys.table.truck
TIDAL KNOWLEDGE
Planning an Enjoyable Beach Walk
by Jim Field
Tides are an integral part of life for those who frequent the ocean and large inland bodies of water—bays, sounds, lagoons— for pleasure and work.
The human circadian rhythm is the pattern our bodies follow based upon a 24hour day—it’s our internal clock. Similarly, a lunar tidal rhythm subjects aquatic plants and animals to a 24-hour (actually 24 hour and 50 minute) cycle of change.
Boaters and fishers, for example, plan their activities around the timing of tides. Regular flood and ebb tides determine the direction, speed, and volume of water moving in and out of inlets, impacting boat maneuvering and safety, the movement and location of fish, water turbidity (clarity), and propensity of fish to eat.
For beachgoers, tides will influence the best time to walk each day, the best place to locate your beach encampment, and sometimes the safest time to swim.
MORE ON WALKING
Walking on a beach is one of life’s greatest pleasures. For many Vero Beach residents, it’s a steadfast daily routine, precious time spent alone, or with others and, as often is the case, accompanied by a dog, who really looks forward to time off leash, running, exploring, digging, sniffing, checking out canine peers.
With age and perhaps orthopedic infirmities, however, it becomes increasingly difficult to walk on sand— both loose and compacted—especially when the berm—the area between dunes and ocean—angles sharply downward. And should the berm narrow for a distance, with a high tide present and surf whipped up by an westerly wind, the beachgoer can face a very difficult trek, exposed to being hit and swept up by waves crashing into the dunes.
The solution to this is to time your daily walk to coincide with a low tide, when berm square footage is maximized and the surf is often quieter. A handy way to find out when low tides occur is to consult a local tide chart online. Better still, do what people have done for eons: purchase a tide clock for instantaneous reference.
TIDES EXPLAINED
Ocean tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational force exerted by the Moon, and to a lesser degree, the Sun, combined with the Earth’s rotation. The change from low to high tide is called the “flood tide” or “flow.” The change from high to low tide is called the “ebb tide.”
When the Sun and Moon align, their combined gravitational forces create spring tides—i.e., higher high tides and lower low tides. Conversely, when the Sun and Moon are at right angles, they create neap tides—i.e., lower high tides and higher low tides.
As the Earth rotates, different parts of the world move in and out of tidal bulges, causing semidiurnal tides in the Atlantic ocean: two high tides and two low tides every 24 hours and 50 minutes. Breaking this down, a high tide occurs every 12 hours and 25 minutes after the previous high tide. A low tide occurs 6 hours and 12 minutes after a high tide.
Here’s an example calculation. If high tide occurs at 6:00 am, the tidal cycle would be low tide at 12:12 pm, next high tide at 6:25 pm, next low tide 12:37 am. Since the Moon’s position shifts slightly each day, the exact times of high and low tides change daily by about 50 minutes. For precise tidal predictions at a specific location, check local tide charts.
Finally, there are other factors affecting ocean tides. Coastline shape, exemplified by bays, inlets, and estuaries, can amplify or reduce tidal effects. Shallow ocean depths experience stronger tidal effects. And storms and winds can temporarily alter tides.
Tide clock made by Jacques Megroz for his son Roger Megroz, our cherished neighbor. Included is a poem by William Shakespeare from Julius Caesar.
FOCAL POINTS IN GARDENING
Introducing MuchNeeded Visual Interest
by Nancy George
Updating your landscape need not be daunting. It is the same as getting a haircut, wearing a new outfit, or cutting your beard. It is making changes that bring fresh life to your surroundings.
For gardeners, one of the easiest and most effective tools is to incorporate focal points. A focal point is an element in your landscape that captures your immediate attention. It can break up a plant grouping that has gotten too unwieldy or large, minimize the appearance of an unsightly but permanent structure (e.g., a spigot, or HVAC equipment), and embellish a bland garden area.
Gardeners should also be looking to bring a new dimension to their yard—it is too easy to become wedded to “sameness.” Perking up the entrance to your home can be as easy as adding a few punches of color or shape to add polish and sophistication.
EXAMPLES TO CONSIDER
Integrating hardscape such as a large rock, a piece of sculpture, a small grouping of variously sized pots with diverse plantings, or a small sitting area, can break up an expanse of green that lacks interest. Surrounding one of these items with a border of white rock can bring a surprisingly fresh facet to your outdoor environment. It can turn a nondescript area into a standout.
Understanding where a focal point can make a considerable impact is an easy concept to grasp. There are three simple guidelines or opportunities: entrance, path, and view.
For starters, take a critical look at the front of your home from the street or sidewalk. Do you approach the front door via a driveway or path? Is there a turn or curve? If so, this is a great place to set a focal point.
The focal point doesn’t have to be large to create the impact you are going for. Sometimes just lining the outside of the curve with a row of Dwarf Clusia (Clusia rosea “nana”) can create a vibrant
edge between the lawn and pathway, accentuating curvatures. If there is a sharper turn, a more prominent specimen or hardscape works can provide a conspicuous visual break.
Consider choosing the same or similar feature you used along the pathway again at the front door or porch. An ideal pairing with Dwarf Clusia, for example, is Dwarf Podocarpus (Podocarpus macrophyllus “pringles”), also known as Japanese Yew, an upright evergreen deeper in color and more complex in texture than Clusia—but beautifully complementary.
If you have stairs leading down to the yard, placing a dramatic focal point directly across the lawn or patio can add a striking component to your landscape. This focal point should have eye-catching color, be architecturally unique, or of a varying height than its surroundings. Make it personal: Choose something you especially enjoy looking at.
Lastly, adding a focal point to your landscape from a window viewpoint always adds interest. Instead of looking out of your living room window directly across to your neighbor’s home, or a telephone pole, or utility sign, add a focal point to catch the eye and provide a pleasing boundary.
A small garden island is just enough to divert attention from the house across the street, a tree with a crown such as such a crepe myrtle (Lagerostroemia indica), paperbark maple (Acer griseum), or the lovely evergreen magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) are all excellent choices for blocking unwanted views. A focal point out the window at your kitchen sink is an often-missed opportunity—if you must do the dishes, at least provide yourself with something pleasant to look at and admire!
While it can be exhilarating to add style and punctuation, don’t get carried away. Less is generally more. Too many focal points can make your garden areas excessively ornate and destroy the restful tropical vibe that is Florida. Go slowly, choose with care, and let your landscape reflect you, not your landscaper’s tastes.
THE COCONUT PALM
An Aesthetic and Economic Treasure
by Jim Field
Close your eyes and imagine an idyllic Caribbean island. Odds are you are envisioning a blue sea, white sand beach, lush green foliage, a mountain enshrouded in clouds, a waterfall or two, and tall coconut palms. If this description comes close, join the crowd.
For me, of all these alluring images, the quintessential symbol of tropical paradise is the coconut palm. Tall or short, bowed or angular trunk, clustered or standing alone, the coconut palm is one of the most captivating specimens in the plant kingdom.
For those inhabiting tropical seacoasts worldwide, the coconut palm is an integral part of daily life, admired for its aesthetics or relied upon for the shade, drink, food, and sheltering materials it can provide. Indeed, virtually every part of the coconut palm is used by humans in some capacity—for individual needs and at industrial scale—creating a global market worth hundreds of billions of dollars annually.
An oceanfront property near our home has its entire perimeter delineated by
coconut palms; swimming offshore, the stand of trees is poetic. I rode my bicycle recently past Riomar Country Club, stopping to enjoy the view of green fairways and coconut palms extending eastward to the ocean. On our own property, we planted seven coconut palms to make them a part of our lives. A neighbor behind us has three very tall coconut palms in their backyard, which we see from our living room, producing a stunning visual effect that perfectly complements our style of living.
PLANT DESCRIPTION
The coconut tree—Cocos nucifera—is the only living species of the genus Cocos. The name is old Portuguese meaning “head” or “skull,” which refer to three round indentations on the de-husked coconut fruit shell resembling facial features.
Many coconut palm varieties exist given its global distribution, manifested by differences in denseness of crown, length of leaf, size and quality of fruit, and
height. The single trunk rises to terminate in a crown of pinnate leaves, with clusters of nuts hanging beneath. The tallest will reach 100 feet. In Florida, two to three dwarf varieties dominate, growing anywhere from 15 to 30 feet.
Each leaf is comprised of a large, woody midrib, edged with slender leaflets, giving the whole frond the appearance of a giant feather. That said, leaves can be 20 feet long and weigh enough to make lifting them difficult. Cutting the midrib requires a robust saw. As the tree grows taller, older, lower fronds break cleanly from the trunk and fall to the ground, with new leaves sprouting from the top. Thus, coconut palms never have an unsightly collar of dangling dead leaves, as some palms do.
Whereas many trees have a tap root, palm trees have a fibrous root system composed of a network of thin roots (at most an inch in diameter) that grow outward symmetrically near the surface (one to three feet deep). Roots will spread far away from the trunk, as needed, to find sufficient water and nutrients. While the root system is not overly invasive, the fibrous nature of the trunk—typically wet on the inside—combined with the fibrous root system, allow palms to bend easily in strong wind and remain anchored.
FRUIT AND USES
The flower is produced within a long woody spathe, or sheathing, resembling a canoe pointed on both ends. The bloom eventually expands and breaks free from
Indian Hawthorn.
THE COCONUT PALM
the spathe, turning from ivory to brown on exposure to light. In time the bloom produces a cluster of ten to twenty coconuts, which reach full maturity in under a year. The coconut palm functions independent of seasons, so one will find enclosed scathes, new blossoms, baby nuts, immature nuts, and ripe nuts all on the same tree at the same time.
Coconut palms produce their first fruit in six to ten years, reaching peak production in 15 to 20 years. In optimal growing conditions, trees can produce 75 fruits annually, but more commonly fewer than 30.
Botanically, the coconut fruit is a drupe, not a nut. Like other fruits, it has three layers. The outermost layer is the glossy skin, transitioning in color with maturity from green to yellow to brown. The middle layer is composed of a fiber, called coir. Together, these two layers make up the husk. Removing the husk, one is left with the hard coconut shell, containing, in various stages, liquid and meat. It is this surface that contains the three pores resembling facial features.
Coconuts first contain a clear liquid referred to as coconut “water.” As development continues, cellular layers of water deposit along the walls of the shell producing coconut “flesh” or “meat,” which hardens over time. What you find when you open a coconut shell depends upon its point of maturity at that moment.
The early stage of coconut meat is custard-like and eaten as is, or used in salads, drinks, desserts, and pastries. More mature coconut meat has a tough texture and is grated, shredded, and flaked for consumption. Notably, it is this product, when pressed with hot water added, that yields coconut “milk,” used for cooking various dishes (e.g., curries and stews). If coconut milk is allowed to stand in a cool place, “cream” will rise on it (similar to fresh cow’s milk). Finally, copra results from drying the meat and is processed industrially for coconut oil and meal,
used in cooking and to make soaps, cosmetics, and oils.
The succulence and allure of the coconut are captured nicely in the writings of Euell Gibbons—described in his time as a contemporary Thoreau—in his Beachcomber’s Handbook (1967), written to chronicle his years living off the land in Hawaii.
“Coconut water, the clear, cool liquid from the green coconut, is the natural, Godgiven beverage of the tropics, needing no processing or flavoring, or even a container in which to pour it, for it is best drunk directly from the huge green fruit that produces it.”
“The perfect drinking nut is full-sized but immature, dark-green, without a trace of the yellow color that characterizes the ripening nut. The husk will be crisp and juicy at the stem end and can be sliced away with one stroke of a sharp machete. The finest drinking nuts are so tightly filled with liquid that one can hear no sloshing when the nut is shaken . . . The water in these perfect nuts has a little “bite,” as if it had been slightly carbonated, and this adds to its refreshing quality.”
“Coconuts in prime drinking stage never fall to the ground themselves, but must be plucked from the tree . . .”
“After your drinking nut is emptied, it can be split open with a single stroke of a sharp machete. Inside, next to the hardening shell, you will find a thin layer of soft, jelly-like meat that is nature’s own custard. This is called spoon-meat in Hawaii, and it is one of the coconut’s finest products, but unfortunately there is very little of it. It would take several coconuts to yield a cupful. Still, I hate to see anything go to waste, so I usually split my empty drinking nuts open and eat the sweet, translucent meat with a spoon or a small section of the coconut shell.”
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
The coconut palm is best suited to sandy soils, abundant sunlight, and regular rainfall. It also needs high humidity for optimum growth. The palms are extremely
salt tolerant—thus their ubiquitous seaside presence. Even small specimens require direct sunlight, so overhead canopy of any sort is not tolerated.
Coconut palms, while needing lots of water, do not like wet feet. New trees should be planted well away from the house—10 feet or more—to allow the fronds to open out. Fertilizer should be applied three times per year—once each spring, summer, and fall. There are dedicated palm fertilizers on the market to choose from. Pests include mealybugs and coconut scale, a white scaly fungus. Globally, Lethal Bronzing Disease (LBD) is a prominent disease devastating plants on a huge scale.
This article first appeared in a precursor to this magazine, and is presented here for the benefit of our larger readership.
SUCCULENT STANDOUTS
Exotic Plants
That Are Effortless to Grow
by Jim Field photography by Jim Field
Succulent plants were new to me when we moved to Florida. They first caught my eye at a local nursery, which had a dedicated section of specimens, all quite small and very different in shape and color. I was intrigued.
My next exposure to succulents was a chance encounter with a succulent garden containing a mix of species presenting a tapestry of shapes, sizes, and colors. Some specimens were planted directly in the ground, others in pots. Rocks and pebbles were used as groundcover, with driftwood added as a decorative element. The garden wasn’t large, but its overall look and texture were magical.
A succulent is a type of plant that has thick, fleshy, engorged tissues adapted to store water. The word succulent comes from the Latin word sucus, meaning “juice” or “sap.” These plants are wellsuited for arid or dry environments where water is scarce. A key to their success is a shallow root system, which spreads to absorb moisture quickly. The water content of some succulent organs can reach 90–95%.
Notably, succulents can be found on each continent, excepting Antarctica. Their prevailing habitat are areas with high temperatures and low rainfall, such as deserts. However, succulents may be found in alpine ecosystems growing in rocky or sandy soil. California contains nearly one hundred native succulent species, many found in coastal environments. Botanists regard cacti as succulents, while horticulturalists prefer to separate them.
Because of their striking and unusual appearance, coupled with an ability to thrive with minimal care, succulents are gaining attention as ornamental plants and garden centerpieces. Providing a perfect habitant centers on four key things: give them plenty of light, but not burning light; occasional watering only; some fertilizer, but not a lot; plant in welldraining soil.
Over time, we’ve incorporated two succulents into our landscaping—both amazing specimens in their own right. Both thrive in Florida, and really only require occasional light watering in dry periods. When guests spot them, they never fail to spark lively conversations.
SUPER BLUE AGAVE
Super Blue Agave (Agave americana), also called “century plant,” is an extremely attractive plant, aesthetically pleasing, well-structured, almost perfectly symmetrical. It’s known for large, broad, thick, and fleshy leaves that stem from a central crown and extend like swords towards the ends. A consistent, deep blue color sets it apart from other exotic agave plants. Native to Mexico, blue agaves are capable of withstanding extreme heat.
Considered slow growers, they mature in 10-15 years and can live to 30 years. Plants are capable of growing very large—up to 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Individual leaves can measure five feet in length. Towards the end of its life, the plant produces a tall, branched stalk topped with yellow blossoms, which can reach a height of 30 feet.
Beyond its beauty and physical prowess, the Super Blue Agave has two novel features. First, its leaves are armed with spikes—needles, really—that can pierce deeply—like a hot knife entering butter. You feel the weapon penetrate your flesh— typically an arm or leg—and then watch the wound bleed. They are dangerous. When working close to them, wear eye protection.
They also try to take over the garden, producing pups (clones) from its roots—they pop up in all directions and prodigiously. Pups make perfect gifts for friends, and regardless of how you extract them from the ground, placing them in a pot with well-drained soil and watering periodically will keep them alive.
Super Blue Agave is a mainstay in Florida landscapes. Place it along a driveway, as focal points in islands, and on either side of an entryway, in sunny areas. They’re becoming very popular in modern landscape design, given their minimalistic look, stark beauty, visual presence, and reduced need for water and maintenance.
A final note of interest, Super Blue Agave is used to make pulque and mezcal, but not tequila. Pulque is an ancient fermented drink made from the plant’s sap. The raw sap is fermented naturally
Super Blue Agave
with wild yeast for a few days to produce a milky, slightly thick drink with a tangy, mildly sour taste. It has a short shelf life and its alcohol content is similar to beer.
Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave hearts (piñas) roasted in underground fire pits, giving mezcal its signature smoky taste. It can be aged in barrels or bottled right away, and has a high alcohol content. Some bottles contain a “worm” for marketing differentiation.
Tequila is only made from a specific variety of Agave tequilana called “Weber Azul.” The plant looks very similar to the Super Blue Agave but is smaller and less dramatic. Harvested hearts are huge, weighing 80-200 pounds. Stripped of leaves and heated, the roasted core is pressed or crushed to release a sugary clear liquid called aguamiel, which in turn is fermented and distilled into alcohol.
ALOE VERA
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) has been known and used for millennia for its medicinal and skin care properties, and is a popular ornamental species used in contemporary gardens and as an indoor potted plant.
The name Aloe derives from the Arabic word “Alloeh” meaning “shining bitter substance,” while Vera in Latin means “true.” It is considered to be native only
to the southeast Arabian Peninsula, but is widely cultivated around the world, encountered in arid, temperate, and tropical regions of temperate continents. The species was introduced to China and various parts of southern Europe in the 17th century. Its adaptability is such that the plant is considered an invasive species in many world regions.
Today, serving the cosmetics industry, there is large-scale agricultural production of aloe vera in Australia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, China, Mexico, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Spain, and US.
The plant has a rosette growth pattern with new leaves sprouting from the center. The leaves themselves are thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with some varieties showing white flecks on their upper and lower stem surfaces. The edge of the leaf is serrated and has small white teeth, or spines. Yellow or orange tubular flowers bloom on tall spikes reaching 35 inches.
Aloe vera thrives in full sun to partial shade outdoors; avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch leaves. Plant in well-draining soil, and water sparingly to avoid root rot. Pups are prolific and easy to propagate by dividing and replanting.
Aloe Vera
ORCHID PASSIONS
Vero Beach Bestows the Perfect Climate
by Brenda Silva
While many gardeners are new to growing orchids, the plant has been around for millions of years, first appearing in recorded history in China, Greece, and Italy. As one of the most prolific flowering plants, orchids grow on every continent except Antarctica. History books assert that as explorers discovered and returned home with novel orchid varieties, this spurred new interest in growing orchids locally.
Today, interest in growing orchids expands each year, the appeal attributed to the orchid’s widespread availability, ease-of-growing, and low-maintenance characteristics. However, an equally important factor attracting novice orchid growers is the ready availability of education and expert knowledge to guide their every step.
EXPERT ADVICE TO START OUT
For anyone beginning to grow orchids, an obvious first step is to seek out local educational resources—and why not? You can interact directly with experts who know local growing conditions and can refer you to near-by resources, organizations, and friendly aficionados.
Paul Price, past president of the Vero Beach Orchid Society (VBOS), as well as current orchid seminar instructor at Busy Bee Lawn & Garden Center, suggested, “For anyone starting with orchids, the best information I can give is to seek out a local orchid society to attend meetings. The VBOS meets on the third Thursday of each month—except for May and December—at the Garden Club of Indian River County.”
Price also pointed out that beginner orchid gardeners should remember that, “orchids love water, but must dry out between watering—most people fail from overwatering. Plants also need to be fed on a weekly basis.”
Adding to Price’s comments, Barbara Schmidt, chair of the Education Committee at the American Orchid Society (AOS), located in Miami, asserted that along with the importance of proper watering and feeding, growing conditions are also integral to successful orchid growth.
“The most important thing for anyone to keep in mind when deciding to grow orchids is the vast diversity of this plant family. Currently, there are over 880
identified genera of orchid. It’s important for a new orchid enthusiast to recognize that there is no one requirement for growing all orchids. It all depends on the genera of the orchid being raised, and if that genera will thrive in the conditions that the grower can provide,” Schmidt pointed out.
Taking into consideration the growing conditions of Vero Beach, Carolyn Greene, current President of the VBOS, said, “Many orchids grow well all year round in this area and across much of Florida without costly greenhouses. Many don’t even need to be brought in during cooler temperatures, and others will only bloom well if they have the temperature change between day and night.”
She continued: “My orchids are all grown outside under the trees, positioned so they get the proper amount of light and water on a schedule that’s best for the species, and I rarely bring any in to protect them from the weather. Every society has experienced growers who can give guidance and help with problems that occur. Orchids are fun to grow and learn about as you go, and all you need is innate curiosity and a certain willingness to experiment.”
YOUR BEST FIRST SPECIMEN
With so many types of orchids available to retail customers, choosing one to start with can be overwhelming. That said, many orchid experts agree that Phalaenopsis are the best type of orchid for a beginner.
Specifically, they are low maintenance and can grow in conditions that are not ideal for most orchids—i.e., lower light and humidity. They have the longest-lasting flowers of almost any orchid, up to, and sometimes more than, three months in bloom. And they are very showy. Finally, they are one of the best orchids for growing in the house.
According to Price, “Phalaenopsis, commonly known as the Moth Orchid, are the best orchids to start with. They can be grown indoors their entire life with simple watering in the kitchen sink by filling the pot with water, letting it rest, and then refilling the pot and letting it drip out, and then returning it to its location in the home. This orchid must have three weeks of cooler weather to initiate a flower spike. When our cool fronts come through, that’s the perfect time to put them out on a covered porch so they get their cooler evenings.”
Schmidt of the AOS agreed, “I would highly recommend starting with a Phalaenopsis orchid. These orchids are hardy, very easy to grow, very easy to rebloom, and very forgiving when their care is less than ideal.”
THREE ESSENTIALS
Easy to grow is not the same thing as effortless to grow, orchid experts point out. As such, they highly recommend ongoing self-education for all orchid growers, not just beginners. Spend time reading and reviewing readily available materials—books, videos—and seeking advice at seminars and larger gatherings. Doing so will increase your rates of success, and open doors to new specimens for expanding your collection.
Taking into consideration all the factors and variables confronting a first-time grower, early success boils down to focusing on just three things: light, water, and location.
Light. Proper lighting is probably the most important factor in growing orchids, and probably the one that most people don’t get right. Most orchids need quite a bit of light, but will burn with too much direct sun. Make sure to provide your plants every minute of sunlight that is recommended by accompanying materials.
Water. Orchids are air plants, so in nature they get rained on, but then dry out quickly. Growers need to water regularly and thoroughly, but let the plant dry out almost completely before watering again, effectively providing wet/dry/ wet/dry cycles. The sin is to keep a plant constantly wet or constantly dry for any length of time.
Location. Put your plant in a spot that allows it to thrive and leave it there. But if you put it in the wrong location, your orchid will decline no matter what else you do to it. Observe your plant constantly and water and feed to succeed. Don’t move it around or repot it unless success is absent or fleeting.
As a rule, flowers and plants flourish when grown in optimum temperatures, and orchids are no different. Fortunately for Vero Beach residents, our tropical climate allows growers to raise orchids outdoors year-round, except for a handful of very cold nights and mornings, typically limited to December through February. Monitor the weather for these overnight cold snaps—and cover your
delicate specimens or bring them indoors if possible.
THE VBOS ANNUAL ORCHID SHOW
Imagine it’s August of 1974 and you discover a plant that you really like. So you look for other people who like the same plant, and eventually you start a club. This is what happened when the Vero Beach Orchid Society (VBOS) began almost 51 years ago.
Dominic Lettiere and fellow orchid lovers formed the first orchid society in Vero Beach, with the initial meetings held in the Lettiere home. When the group outgrew that space, meetings moved to the Vero Beach Garden Center, where they are still held.
Similarly, an annual orchid show— produced by the VBOS—also started small, but has grown to attendance numbers in the hundreds. This year, the 41st Annual Orchid Show and Sale is themed, “Carnival of Orchids,” and will be held April 2627, 2025, under the Riverside Oaks at Riverside Park.
For many attendees, part of the show’s appeal is seeing vendors with varieties of brilliant and brightly colored orchids from around the world, many of which are sold at shows for the very first time. Based on past attendance surveys, many growers attend just for this reason—greater exposure to the vast abundance of orchid specimens that their hobby and passion encompass.
CUVÉE & CO.
A
Passion for Wine Finds Home in Vero Beach
by Joshua McMiller photography by Yuri Semenyuk
Some of the best journeys begin without a clear destination. They start as a feeling of a pull towards something unknown, an openness to discovery.
For Sommelier Ray Granberg, that journey led him to Vero Beach, and ultimately to opening Cuvée & Co. It’s a new wine bar that’s quickly becoming a local favorite.
Originally from Frankford, New Jersey, Ray’s arrival in Vero Beach was as organic as a well-aged Bordeaux. “My parents were retiring and looking for a place to settle,” he recalls. “We drove down I-95, stopping in different towns along the way. Vero Beach just felt right.”
The town’s tight-knit community, its support for small businesses, and the laidback coastal lifestyle made it the perfect place to put down roots. But long before he became a business owner, Ray’s love for wine began with a single sip.
FROM WAITING TABLES TO SIPPING RIESLING
Like many in the restaurant world, Ray’s career started humbly bussing tables, making a little extra cash to keep gas in the car. But what started as a side job turned into a lifelong passion. “Naturally, I wanted to make more money, so I worked my way up to serving and bartending. That’s when I really had to learn about cocktails, beer, and wine.”
His first love? A German Riesling. “It was at a staff tasting,” he remembers. “The sommelier poured me a glass, and it blew me away. It was sweet but balanced and there’s so much history and science behind it. I had no idea wine could taste like that.”
Riesling, known for its bright acidity and diverse range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, is often an entry point for new wine lovers. Germany’s Mosel region produces some of the finest expressions, with notes of green apple, citrus, and honeysuckle.
Over time, Ray’s palate evolved. Like many wine drinkers, he transitioned from sweet whites to drier styles, then to richer reds. These days? “I mostly drink clean, fresh white wines and Champagne.”
CUVÉE & CO.: A WINE BAR, NOT JUST A WINE SHOP
Ray’s journey from server to sommelier took an unexpected turn when a friend of a friend mentioned a local wine shop was for sale. He wasn’t necessarily looking to buy a business, but the opportunity felt right. “We bought the business two months ago and opened about six weeks ago,” he says. “And we haven’t looked back since.”
WHAT MAKES CUVÉE & CO. STAND OUT?
“There are plenty of wine shops in town,” Ray explains, “but we wanted to be a wine bar first. A place where people can sit, relax, and talk about wine in a welcoming, unpretentious way.” The focus is on hospitality, making sure each guest feels taken care of while exploring new wines.
Ray’s wife Eva Granberg, though she has a full-time job as a mortgage officer, played a big role in designing the space. “She picked out all the furniture and helped create the atmosphere. That’s definitely her strength.” The result? A cozy yet sophisticated space where people can linger over a glass of wine and good conversation.
WINES THAT REFLECT VERO BEACH
With Vero Beach’s warm climate and proximity to the ocean, it’s no surprise that Ray gravitates toward bright, fresh white wines that pair well with local
seafood. “Crisp Sauvignon Blanc, mineral driven Albariño, even a good dry Riesling, they all work beautifully here,” he recommends.
Sauvignon Blanc, particularly from the Loire Valley or New Zealand, offers zesty citrus flavors and a refreshing acidity that makes it perfect for Florida’s heat. Albariño, a Spanish varietal from Rías Baixas, has a briny, saline quality that mirrors the nearby ocean breeze. Pinot Noir, while often thought of as a red for cooler climates, can be a great option when served slightly chilled—a tip Ray shares with customers looking for a lighter red in the Florida sunshine.
THE FUTURE OF CUVÉE & CO.
While Cuvée & Co. is still in its early days, Ray has big dreams. “The ultimate goal has always been food and wine together,” he says. “This is just the first step.” Expanding into small plates, curated wine pairings, and community wine events, are all on the horizon.
Vero Beach is ready. A town known for its stunning coastline, strong sense of community, and growing culinary scene is the perfect home for an innovative wine bar. And with Ray’s passion and expertise, Cuvée & Co. is poised to become a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. So, the next time you’re oceanside, stop by and order a glass of Riesling—perhaps the precise bottle that started it all—and toast to journeys that lead us where we’re meant to be.
2855 Ocean Drive STE B6 Vero Beach, FL 32963
772-643-5639
cuveeco@gmail.com
cuveecovb.com
@cuveeco.vb
ENTERTAINMENT IN THE CITY
THE PULSE OF VERO BEACH
The Tea: April’s MustSee Events & Local Buzz in Vero Beach
Vero Beach is bringing the heat this April with an exciting lineup of events and some local buzz. From art and music to floral showcases and juicy town gossip, here’s what you need to know!
Art, Music & Festivals The Local Buzz
APRIL 12 – CHILDREN’S ART FESTIVAL @ VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART
A family-friendly day filled with student art displays, interactive activities, and live entertainment. It is a perfect way to celebrate young creativity.
APRIL 12 – FREE CONCERT @ HUMISTON PARK
Pack your lawn chairs and enjoy a live outdoor concert from the Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce. Great vibes, great music, and the ocean breeze—what more do you need?
APRIL 18 – RECKLESS SHOTS LIVE
The high-energy band Reckless Shots will perform live for a night of great music and good times.
APRIL 19 – GLORY DAYS @ RIVERSIDE THEATRE’S LIVE IN THE LOOP
Calling all classic rock fans—this tribute band will have you dancing all night long under the stars.
APRIL 25 – PAT KIRCHNER LIVE @ INDIAN RIVER DISTILLERY
An intimate, soulful performance paired with locally crafted spirits for a laid-back night of live music.
VERO BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT DRAMA
A high-ranking officer has filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the city, alleging a toxic work environment and retaliation from leadership. The case is stirring up major controversy in town.
LOCAL RESIDENT WINS BIG IN THE FLORIDA LOTTERY
Someone in Vero Beach just hit the jackpot, winning the top prize in the “$1,000 a Week for Life” scratchoff game. Who’s the lucky winner? That’s the talk of the town!
APRIL 26-27 – VERO BEACH ORCHID SOCIETY’S “CARNIVAL OF ORCHIDS” @ RIVERSIDE PARK
A two-day celebration featuring stunning orchids, perfect for plant lovers and anyone looking to experience something uniquely beautiful.
Vero Beach is buzzing with events and drama this month, so stay tuned for next month’s Tea!
REAL ESTATE S E C T I O N
REAL ESTATE MARKET INTEL
A Compendium of Recent News
by Jim Field
2024 Full Year Home Sales
Weakest in 30 Years
Major dampening factors were high mortgage rates and record home prices.
• US existing home sales in 2024 hit lowest level since 1995.
• 30-year fixed mortgage rates remained stubbornly high between 6% and 8%.
• The national medium existinghome price in December was $404,400, down from $426,900 in June.
• Inventory remained thin, boosting homes prices, although growing modestly.
• Overall cost of homeownership— including home insurance and property taxes—added to expenses.
February 2025 Homes Sales Beat Expectations
4.2% increase from January suggests buyers and sellers are returning to the market.
• Buyers and sellers are getting accustomed to high mortgage rate levels, becoming the new norm.
• Need to enter the market despite high rates given normal life events: marriage, job relocation, retirement.
• The national medium existinghome price in February was $398,400, indicating price declines.
• Home buyers are slowing returning to the market despite only modest declines in mortgage rates.
• However, consumer confidence has shown weakness, driven by government layoffs and looming trade tariffs.
Florida Explores Eliminating Property Tax Given Soaring Home Prices
Goal would be to reduce the overall cost of home ownership.
• Proposals in Tallahassee still in early stages of discussion but gaining traction and momentum.
• In addition to home prices, Florida homeowners also burdened by high and escalating costs of home insurance.
• Governor Ron DeSantis urged the Legislature to provide citizens relief from such taxes.
• Median home prices have quadrupled in the Miami metro area since 2012, and tripled in the Orlando and Tampa areas. Average Florida home insurance premiums were $1,973 in 2018, increasing to $3,731 by 2024.
• Florida ranked 28th nationally in 2023 for property tax rates. Other states are also weighing reductions in property tax rates— e.g., Wyoming, Kansas, Montana.
Trump Will Not Rule Out 2025 Recession
Says there will be a period of transition as he redirects and improves the US economy.
• Trump’s sweeping economic agenda could cause short-term market turbulence while driving future prosperity.
• “I hate to predict things like this,” the President shared. “There is a period of transition because what we’re doing is very big.” And in another statement: “Look, what I have to do is build a strong country. You can’t really watch the stock market. If you look at China, they have a 100-year perspective.”
• Many businesses support his broader agenda, but uncertainty over trade tariffs has reduced confidence.
• Trump’s moves are testing the resilience of the economy, which has shown strong growth and low unemployment. Early signs of strain include a drop in consumer spending, fears about renewed inflation, and stock market instability.
The Federal Reserve is Uncertain About the Economy’s Future Path
Proposed tariffs pose a major wildcard for both GDP growth and inflation outlooks.
• The Federal Open Market Committee held short-term interest rates steady (March 19).
• GDP growth of 1.7% is now projected for 2025, down from 2.1% expected in December.
• Inflation of 2.8% is forecasted for 2025, up from 2.5% predicted in December.
• Chairman Powell is focused on the potential economic impact of potential Trump tariffs, especially given concerns in the market of a looming recession.
• It is generally believed that the Fed’s cuts in interest rates last fall— totaling one percentage point— were premature, given persistent inflation levels. This would not suggest further incremental cuts in the foreseeable future.
Stagflation Now Enters the List of Potential Maladies
Federal Reserve has essentially cast aside its pre-Trump gameplan and expectations.
• Trade tariffs covering a large basket of goods and materials are expected to send prices higher and reduce investment, consumer and producer sentiment, and GDP growth—at least in the short-term.
• The Fed’s 2025 projections had been 2.5% inflation, 2% growth, 4% unemployment.
• With broad tariffs, the Fed now
expects weaker growth, higher unemployment, and higher inflation than projected in December.
• Stagflation could result—the combination of stagnant growth and higher prices—making it difficult for the Fed to cut interest rates this year to offset any drift towards recession.
• President Trump has said that he wants to see interest rates lowered.
• Chairman Powell has suggested that uncertainty caused by possible tariffs has reduced interest in changing current interest rate levels, creating a “level of inertia” among policymakers. “We think it’s a good time for us to wait for further clarity.”
• Still, of 19 policymakers, 11 still expect the Fed to cut interest rates at least twice in 2025.
Inflation Slowed to 2.8% in February
But looming tariffs threaten to raise some prices in the months ahead.
• Consumer prices grew 2.8% in February from a year earlier, versus 3% in January. Economists had expected a 2.9% rise.
• Prices excluding food and energy categories—the so-called core measure of inflation—rose 3.1%, the lowest year-over-year reading since 2021. Economists had expected 3.2%
• Stock investors are worried that tariffs in combination with Musk’s DOGE could push the economy into recession. Consumers are already showing anxiety. Consumer sentiment has fallen 10% in the U. of Michigan survey. Consumer spending in January had the largest monthly falloff in four years.
• Still, these data pre-date tariff actions, which could drive certain prices higher; the report also isn’t expected to change the Fed’s position to hold interest rates steady.
1830 Sand Dollar Way | Vero Beach, Florida 32963
Refined Coastal Living with Exceptional Flow & Luxury Finishes
Rebuilt in 2021. Every inch of this light-filled coastal modern home exudes luxury and ease. Open plan spaces with travertine flooring interior & exterior, shiplap, quartz & marble finishes, fireplace, volume ceilings, wet bar, SubZero/Wolf appliances, walk-in pantry with 2nd fridge, newly added study with built-ins, 1000 gal propane, sound system, walk-in closets. Living room features two sets of sliders opening to a large private walled courtyard with retractable awning and the 40x20 pool, spa, outdoor kitchen & lush landscaping. Great flow for entertaining! Steps to private beach entrance. Offered at $3.35 million.
Experience unparalleled oceanfront luxury in this NEWLY CONSTRUCTED tropical modern estate. Nestled in a cul-de-sac of Sandpointe East, this th reestory, 10,000+ total sq. ft. architectural masterpi ece offers breathtaking ocean views from every room. Built for extreme coastal conditions, it features reinforced concrete on each floor, 30-ft driven pil es, and top-tier storm protection. Enjoy a 72-ft lap po ol, spa, private elevator, sauna, built-in BBQ, gas fireplace, hidden pantry, expansive oceanfront deck, lush backyard, and floor-to-ceiling impact glass—an ultimate coastal retreat.
A Featured Property From Our Lifestyle Portfolio
G ATED O CEANFRONT E STATE
640 Reef Road, Vero Beach | $15.9 Million | v283557.com
Live on the ocean (104' bulkheaded oceanfront shoreline) Turnkey/Fully Furnished
Perfectly + professionally decorated by Red Leaf Interiors, Nashville, TN Within walking distance to Moorings Yacht & Country Club + Private Boat Slips
407 S Palm Island Circle | Palm Island Plantation | Vero Beach, Florida 32963
An Exquisite Coastal Retreat.
This stunning residence offers an exceptional blend of refined craftsmanship and coastal charm, designed for both luxurious living and effortless entertaining. Spanning approximately 3,616 square feet, the first floor boasts vaulted ceilings, rich moldings, hardwood floors, and two stately fireplaces. An elegant dining room with a wet bar enhances entertaining, while the gourmet kitchen offers an oversized island and a sunlit breakfast nook. The main level primary suite ensures privacy while upstairs, two ensuite guest bedrooms share a sitting area that opens to a charming balcony. Outside, a lush retreat unfolds across approximately 0.39 acres, featuring a covered lanai, patio, pool, and spa. Enjoy exclusive amenities, including an oceanfront beach club, resort-style pool, fitness center, and private boat docks. Offered at $2.695 million.
Engel & Völkers proudly expands luxury real estate s ervices to Hutchinson Island! Led by License Partner Claire Hig gins, our new shop at 4007 N Highway A1A will bring sophisticated listings and dedicated advisors to the Treasure Coast. Stop by to discover the unmatched charm of Hutchinson Island with Engel & Vö lkers – your gateway to extraordinary properties and exceptional service. Visit EVTreasureCoast.com to learn more.
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