METRO HOME+DESIGN by Metro Life Media, Inc.

HOME TOUR

Where Personality Meets Refinement

Crespo Design Group Crafts a Stylish, Modern Retreat

By Ronda M. Parag | Photograhy by Nicholas Ferris Photography

When a newly married couple purchased their first home they sought the design services of Crespo Design Group and its principal Enrique Crespo to make their first space together truly their own. “Getting to know them, how they live, and what they’re drawn to aesthetically was key,” says Enrique Crespo. “Their lifestyle and preferences guided every design decision, helping us create a home that reflects their personality and feels deeply personal.”

When beginning any design project it is important to understand a clients lifestyle and personal tastes.

“Understanding what they love—specific colors, textures, and how they want their home to function—shaped everything, says Crespo. “I always prioritize durability

without sacrificing style, so their preferences drove those selections.”

A standout feature in the home is the custom leather chandelier in the great room. It serves as a focal point of the entire space. “Lighting played a big role in creating drama and defining the spaces,” says Crespo. Throughout the home, wallpaper was used to define and highlight specific areas. “I love it for the dimension and character it brings,” emphasized Crespo.

The home is made for entertaining and the theatre room with its deep, moody tones adds a vibrant energy to the home. “It’s an estate-sized home designed with entertaining in mind, but every room still feels inviting and personal,” says Crespo. “There’s a space for everyone.”

In any home, there can be some design challenges that need to be solved. In the case of the primary bedroom the size of the room was huge, almost too large to feel intimate. “To bring it in and add warmth to the space, we used a four-poster upholstered bed, layered in a mural-style wallpaper, and added a stunning seating area that tied it all together,” recalls Crespo. The end result is a serene, elegant space that feels like a retreat.

In designing the home, the couples dog is a big part of their life, so Crespo Design Group knew that every space had to be pet-friendly. “We leaned into performance fabrics that could stand up to everyday use, while still looking beautiful,” adds Crespo.

When asked what were some parts of the project that Crespo was most proud of he says, “It’s hard to chose, but the great room and primary bedroom are standouts for me. Her office also turned out to be such a fun, bold space.”

“This was a great project to work on,” says Crespo. “The home owners were so open to ideas and some great design happened because of that.” M

Crespo Design Group

Enrique Crespo, Principal 3119 Bay to Bay Blvd. Tampa, FL 33629

813.831.0949 www.CrespoDesignGroup.com

HOME TOUR

A Mid-Century Modern Retreat in Seminole Heights

By Ronda M. Parag Photograhy by Bill Horne

Tucked away in the charming neighborhood of Seminole Heights, this newly built single-story home is a stunning take on mid-century modern design. With three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a thoughtfully designed U-shaped layout, the home seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. At its heart lies a centrally located pool, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interior with natural light and provide breathtaking views from nearly every room.

Together, Debra Ackerbloom and the home owners chose modern furnishings in a variety of cohesive finishes and fabrics ensuring the home upon completion feels polished and welcoming. Every selection was made with the homeowners’ vision in mind, striking a balance between contemporary elegance and comfortable livability.

Drawing inspiration from mid-century modern furnishings, fixtures, and finishes, the design team crafted inviting and functional spaces throughout. “Our goal was to create a home that feels effortlessly modern yet warm and inviting,” says Debra Ackerbloom, Owner of Debra Ackerbloom Interiors. “By blending mid-century modern elements with thoughtful furnishings, we achieved a space that is both stylish and livable.”

A striking Tiffany blue double-door entry sets the tone for what awaits inside—an airy, modern space that is both welcoming and sophisticated. The floors are adorned with large-format Calacatta Gold porcelain tile, adding a touch of luxury while maintaining a clean, streamlined aesthetic.

The kitchen, a true showstopper, features matte black cabinetry that contrasts beautifully with Silver Wave marble countertops, creating a sleek yet inviting ambiance. One of the homeowners’ favorite details is the backsplash window, offering a direct view of their lush vegetable and herb garden, seamlessly integrating nature into their daily routine.

“The biggest design challenge was ensuring that the open-concept layout still felt intimate,” says Ackerbloom. “Through strategic furniture placement and layered textures, we were able to create cozy, defined spaces within the expansive floor plan.” The design team successfully established defined, yet fluid, spaces that encourage both relaxation and connection.

This Seminole Heights retreat is more than just a house—it’s a thoughtfully curated home that reflects the owners’ style, passions, and way of life. With its stunning architectural details, masterfully selected furnishings, and an undeniable connection to the outdoors, it stands as a modern oasis in one of Tampa’s most vibrant neighborhoods. M

CREDITS

Interior Designer: Debra Ackerbloom Interiors, 813.200.7742

Builder: Neo Homes, 813.928.1886, www.neohomes.net

Architect: Tommy Lamb

AT HOME

A Resort-Inspired Dream Home by Grayson Interiors

By Ronda M. Parag Photograhy by Tony Sica Photography

With the perfect team, a house transforms into a true dream home. Designer Amber Gray-Moore of Grayson Interiors, in partnership with ICI Homes, brought her clients’ vision to life—blending style, function, and custom details to create a space that feels uniquely theirs.

Project Rice was a stunning custom, new-build collaboration with ICU Homes — a project where the vision was to transform their clients’ forever home into a resort-like retreat. “As snowbirds who relocated from Virginia, our clients wanted a space that felt luxurious yet inviting — a sanctuary where they could unwind and feel like they were on vacation every day,” says Amber Gray-Moore, Founder of Grayson Interiors.

For this project, the New Construction & Renovation Design Service of Grayson Interiors ensured a seamless experience by guiding every design decision and managing the complexities of the build process.

“We elevated their formal dining room with a touch of opulence — a timeless accent wall, a grand chandelier, and exquisite selections from Caracole, featuring a show stopping dining table and chairs that command attention,” says Gray-Moore. Seating for eight creates the ideal setting for a dinner party.

In the open-concept family room, kitchen, and nook area, the design team carefully blended character, color, and comfort. The custom illuminated built-in feature adds warmth and depth, while custom sage swivel accent chairs provide both style and function. Captivating grand pendant lights tie the space together, reinforcing Grayson Interiors “less is more” approach — where every carefully chosen element makes a meaningful impact.

Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, the media room features plush reclining chairs with built-in glass trays and cup holders, perfect for enjoying the latest movie or catching the big game in comfort. A billiards table adds to the fun, while the walls come to life with jerseys and sports memorabilia, creating a dynamic, game-day atmosphere right at home. “A standout feature of this room is the custom-designed pool table, which seamlessly converts into a dining table while offering discreet storage solutions,” says Gray-Moore. “This multifunctional piece allows for effortless transitions between game nights and family gatherings, making it a true centerpiece

Amber Gray-Moore, owner and lead designer of Grayson Interiors

of the space.” Each recliner features integrated USB ports, wine glass and popcorn holders, and a smooth reclining function, delivering a luxurious cinematic experience.

The primary bedroom features an accent wall of geometric wall covering adding visual interest to the spacious room. Hanging pendent lights adorn each side above the contemporary night stands.

Throughout the home, Gray-Moore says they embraced soothing neutrals, rich greens, and touches of champagne metallics to create an atmosphere of understated elegance and luxurious tranquility.

“Leading the design of their dream home was no small feat, but witnessing it all come to life was incredibly rewarding,” adds Gray-Moore. “Our goal was to create a light and airy atmosphere that radiates comfort while delivering breathtaking details in every room.” M

Grayson Interiors, Amber Gray-Moore | www.grayson-interiors.com Email: info@grayson-interiors.com| 813.365.4487

Create a Home That Feels Personal, Intentional, and Uniquely Yours

By Ronda M. Parag | Photography by Dmytro O. Baumann

In a world full of mass production, finding accents that feel authentic and personal can be a challenge. The secret to creating a space that truly reflects your style lies in curating pieces that tell a story—pieces that evoke memories, capture attention, and inspire conversation. METRO spoke with Wendy Garraty, Founder of Clayton Gray Homes and here are a few elements she says are essential in transforming your home.

Found Objects A Touch of History

Found objects are the soul of a well-curated home. These unique, often one-of-a-kind items carry a sense of history and character that mass-produced décor simply can’t replicate. Whether it’s a weathered wooden sculpture from a faraway place or a vintage brass candlestick with a patina that hints at decades of use, these pieces bring warmth and intrigue to your space. They serve as conversation starters and remind us that beauty often lies in imperfections.

Handmade Pottery

The Art of the Artisan

There’s something undeniably special about handmade pottery. Each piece bears the unique touch of its maker—organic shapes, subtle glazes, and perfectly imperfect forms that add texture and character to your space. Whether it’s a rustic vase, a textured bowl,

or a

Sculptural Shapes

Form

Meets Function

Incorporating sculptural shapes into your décor is like adding a piece of modern art to your home. These bold, statementmaking forms—whether they’re abstract sculptures, uniquely shaped furniture, or even a lamp with unexpected curves—

create visual interest and draw the eye. They break up the monotony of straight lines and flat surfaces, adding a layer of sophistication and creativity to your space.

Unique Scents with Incense The Soul of Your Space

Scent is one of the most powerful ways to make a house feel like a home. Unique

incense blends can transform your space into a sanctuary, setting the mood with aromas that evoke calm, nostalgia, or inspiration. Whether you prefer woody, earthy scents or floral, uplifting notes, incense can transport you to another place and time.

Vintage Rugs

A Foundation of Character Vintage rugs are more than just floor coverings—they’re works of art that ground your space with texture, color, and history. Each piece tells a story through its intricate patterns, handwoven techniques, and aged beauty. Incorporating a vintage rug not only adds warmth and comfort but also infuses your home with a sense of timeless elegance. It’s the foundation upon which you build your entire aesthetic, connecting your modern style with the charm of the past. M

simple mug, handmade pottery brings a tactile, earthy quality that grounds your home.

A VAILABLE LISTINGS

A New Era of Luxury on Clearwater Beach

By Stephen Parag II

As the sun dipped below the Gulf, casting its golden glow over Clearwater Beach, the vision for a new era of luxury living is set to take shape. The Viceroy Residences, an 86-unit beachfront condominium development, is set to redefine coastal elegance. With dual nine-story towers and world-class hospitality from Viceroy, this project is unlike anything the area has seen before.

At the unveiling of the $5 million sales center, METRO Publisher Stephen Parag II sat down with John Farina, CEO of U.S. Development, to discuss the inspiration behind the project

“If you look at the west coast of Florida, new luxury condos have been concentrated in Naples and Sarasota,” Farina explained. “Clearwater Beach was ready for something new. The Gulf, the sunsets, the marine life — it was clear that if we built it, they would come.”

Despite Florida’s hurricane history, the developers remained steadfast. “Our residences are built for resiliency, with dual gas-powered generation for all systems,” Farina said. “It’s essentially a bunker. Buyers will feel safe while enjoying the beauty of the area they love.”

The ideal residents? Those already in Clearwater Beach, living in older buildings, seeking modern luxury with upgraded safety standards. With a private, jetty-protected beach and resort-style amenities, the Viceroy Residences offer a seamless blend of tranquility and sophistication.

As the Gulf waves gently lapped the shore, and one thing in mind—the future of Clearwater Beach has arrived. M

For more information, visit Viceroy Residences Clearwater Beach 805 S. Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33767 727.617.4414 www.viceroycwb.com

METRO Publisher, Stephen Parag II (center), meets with Mark Keiser, President of Development for Viceroy Hotel Group (left), and John Farina, CEO of U.S. Development (right).

Come see the 3D models, floorplans and renderings of the development inside the on-site sales office.

Sunset Park Stunner: Where Luxury Meets Laid-Back Living

By Ronda M. Parag

Welcome to a home that redefines elegance and effortless luxury in the heart of Sunset Park! From the moment you step through the stately glass-paneled double doors, you’ll know this home is something special. Ten-foot ceilings, exquisite millwork, rich hardwood floors, and custom wainscoting set the tone for a space that’s both grand and inviting.

Designed with both comfort and sophistication in mind, this custom-built masterpiece offers five spacious bedrooms and 4.5 baths, including a convenient firstfloor guest suite. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party in the elegant dining room, cozying up by the gas fireplace in the living room, or enjoying movie nights in the stunning great room with its wood-beamed ceilings and French doors, every inch of this home was crafted for making memories. At the heart of it all is the gourmet kitchen — a true showstopper! Custom cabinetry with intricate detailing, a 48”

Wolf gas range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, built-in Bosch coffee station, and a 24” Sub-Zero wine fridge make this a dream for chefs and entertainers alike. The oversized island is perfect for casual breakfasts or late-night chats, and the walk-in pantry with butcher block counters ensures you’ll never run out of storage space.

Upstairs, the primary suite is nothing short of a sanctuary. A custom walk-in closet keeps your wardrobe impeccably organized, while the spa-like bath boasts a freestanding soaking tub, dual vanities, and a generous walk-in shower for a true retreat. Also on the second floor, you’ll find an additional en-suite bedroom, two more beautifully designed bedrooms sharing a Jack-and-Jill bath, and a laundry room equipped with storage, a sink, and a folding station to keep life running smoothly.

Step outside, and you’ll find an entertainer’s paradise waiting for you. A sprawling lanai with a travertine deck, wood ceiling, and an indoor-outdoor

fireplace creates the perfect space for hosting year-round. The fully equipped outdoor kitchen, featuring sleek quartz countertops, sets the scene for al fresco dining, while the sparkling pool and spa invite you to relax and unwind.

This home comes packed with stateof-the-art features, including a whole-house surround sound system and advanced video monitoring, ensuring comfort, security, and convenience at every turn.

With luxury finishes, modern upgrades, and an unbeatable Sunset Park location, this home is truly a rare find. Don’t let this dream slip away —schedule your private tour today and experience the magic for yourself! M

Located in Hillsborough County in Sunset Park, the residence at 4614 W. Browning is offered at $3,295,000 through Compass Florida. Presented by Jeff Shelton and Christine Mastrilli with Compass. Contact Christine Mastrilli at 813.205.6195 or email christine.mastrilli@compass.com and Jeff Shelton at 813.690.1688 or email jeff@HughesShelton.com.

Nestled in the prestigious Beach Park neighborhood of South Tampa, 5002 S Shore Crest Circle presents an extraordinary 1.34-acre waterfront estate. Boasting over 10,130 sq ft of living space, the property features a gracious 7-bedroom , 7.5 bathroom main residence-complete with coffered ceilings, marble and hardwood floors, elevator access and an intimate library/den.

Outdoor amenities shine with an outdoor pool, pool house, private tennis court, and a deeded boat dock with lift for seamless bay access. A gated entrance, guard house, and full standby generator ensure privacy, security, and uninterrupted comfort.

This is your chance to own a piece of real estate paradise, an estate where possibilities are as boundless as the horizon it offers. Whether you seek a serene retreat or a vibrant hub for entertaining, this estate provides the perfect canvas for realizing your dream home in an unparalleled location.

Dockside Luxury: A Modern Coastal Home With Timeless Style

By Ronda M. Parag | Photograhy by Firelight Images

Alove for boating and the dream of waterfront living led a South Tampa family to search for the perfect lot back in 2020. What they found was an ideal piece of land in the coveted Sunset Park neighborhood — quiet, private, and perfectly positioned on the water. The result is a custombuilt, coastal contemporary residence that feels more like a luxury resort than a private home.

Spanning 4,213 square feet, the two-story home features five bedrooms, six baths, and a seamless blend of indooroutdoor living. Designed with entertaining and relaxed Florida living in mind, the layout prioritizes open spaces, wide hallways, and abundant natural light. The aesthetic is crisp and breezy, with a coastal palette and subtle West Indies influence.

From nearly every angle inside the home, the water views are center stage. Manatees, dolphins, and coastal birds make frequent appearances just beyond the backyard dock, offering a serene backdrop for a morning coffee or an evening cocktail on the upper deck.

At the heart of the home is a gourmet kitchen, outfitted with high-end Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, double ovens, and a six-burner gas cooktop. An oversized island provides both prep space and seating for casual dining. The adjacent dining room features a striking illuminated wine wall, offering both storage and a showpiece for the couple’s collection.

Meticulous craftsmanship is evident throughout, from the detailed custom millwork and trim to the thoughtfully selected finishes—lighting, door hardware, and cabinetry—all chosen to remain timeless and elegant as styles evolve.

The primary suite offers a true retreat, with a spa-style bath that includes a rain shower, soaking tub, and a double vanity. Custom-built closets maximize space and function, while a private balcony provides peaceful water views— evoking the feel of an island getaway, right at home.

One of the homeowners’ must-haves was an accordionstyle door connecting the great room to the upper deck. When fully open, it creates a fluid transition from indoors to the outdoors, embracing Florida’s temperate climate.

The outdoor living area features a saltwater pool and spa with a sun shelf, waterfall feature, and lush tropical landscaping that ensures privacy.

Entertaining outdoors is effortless with a built-in grill, Green Egg smoker, and a beverage fridge, all within steps of ample seating and a cozy fire pit—perfect for s’mores under the stars. The dock area flows naturally from the pool deck, maximizing every inch of the oversized lot and creating a true backyard paradise.

Of course, no waterfront home is complete without a proper dock. The brand-new setup includes a 10,000-pound boat lift, making it easy to enjoy a spontaneous sunset cruise or fishing trip at a moment’s notice. M

Now Listed For Sale

The home at 4806 W. San Rafael Street, Tampa, FL 33629 is represented by Ally Russell at The KVA Group, Keller Williams Tampa Central. For more information, contact 813.734.5024 or email ally@kava-group.com.

Backyard, Elevated: Poolside Picks for Summer Entertaining

Whether you’re going coastal glam or modern minimalist, METRO expects these finds will bring serious style to your summer setup.

Coastal Glam

Think Palm Beach chic meets Hamptons ease—whites, soft yellows, rattan, scalloped edges, and playful luxury.

1 ROLL-UP BAR Host like a Hamptons pro with this breezy handmade Carlo rattan bar cart, ready for rosé and citrus spritzes. $1,699. www.potterybarn.com

2 SCALLOPED SHADE Retro-chic perfection—this scalloped umbrella brings Palm Beach panaché to your pool deck from Business & Pleasure Co. $174. www.anthropologie.com

3 FLOAT GOALS Why settle for a lounger when you can “sail” on a glam yacht float? The pool has never looked better. $79. www.funboy.com

4 PASTEL POUR Colored glassware adds instant joy—these acrylic stemware are practically made for sipping colorful cocktails. $38. www.anthropologie.com

5 LOUNGE LUX The definition of coastal comfort—plush cushions, rattan accents, and all the glam. $1,599. www.potterybarn.com

Modern Minimalist

It’s all about décor and design with crisp lines, muted tones, matte finishes, natural woods, and elevated simplicity.

1 SIP NEUTRAL These smoky acrylic tumblers are the stylish, shatterproof upgrade your outdoor bar needs. $36. www.westelm.com

2 FLAME FACTOR A sleek fire pit adds warmth and elegance—perfect for golden hour gatherings. $999. www.potterybarn.com

3 GROUNDED RELAXATION Clean lines, natural wood, and a low-slung profile—this chair invites cool conversations. $999. www.potterybarn.com

4 STACK & SERVE Sleek and refined, these outdoor melamine platters bring that effortless chef-at-home vibe. $25 each. www.westelm.com

5 UNDERSTATED SHADE Minimalist coverage with major presence—this cantilever umbrella is sleek and sun-smart. $7,965. www.rh.com

A Retreat at Home Cozy Elegance in the Great Room

Project: Serenity in the Suburbs

Location: Land O’ Lakes

Cruz Interiors, Inc. set out to create a true retreat in this open-concept Great Room, and the result is a warm, inviting space perfect for unwinding and reconnecting. At its heart is a stunning stone fireplace — an eye-catching focal point that radiates both comfort and sophistication.

Thoughtfully layered with curated accessories and meaningful artwork, the space reflects the family’s unique story while adding personality and charm. Plush seating arrangements invite conversation and relaxation, striking a balance between livable comfort and refined design. Soaring ceilings are accentuated with bold architectural beams and rich textures, creating a sense of grandeur without sacrificing the room’s cozy feel.

The overall effect is effortless elegance — an everyday escape that offers a grounded, welcoming energy for this well-traveled family. M

Cruz Interiors Inc.

Where Eco-Friendly Meets High-Style Design www.cruzinteriorsinc.com | 813.444.4023

A Rare Estate Opportunity In The Heart Of Beach Park

By Ronda M. Parag

Discover an unparalleled opportunity to own one of South Tampa’s most coveted waterfront properties at 5002 South Shore Crest Circle. Set in the heart of prestigious Beach Park, this 1.34-acre estate offers an extraordinary canvas to create a custom masterpiece or revive an iconic home to its original grandeur. Gated and walled for complete privacy, the property combines seclusion with direct access to the best of Tampa Bay.

The estate spans over 58,000 square feet of land and includes a grand 8,567-square-foot main residence alongside a stylish, fully renovated two-story guest house. With timeless architectural lines and sweeping outdoor spaces, the setting is as versatile as it is striking. Imagine morning coffee by the water’s edge, sunny afternoons by the pool, and breezy evenings spent entertaining guests in the dedicated pool house.

A deeded boat dock with lift provides easy access to the bay, making this home ideal for those who appreciate life on the

water. For the sport-inclined, a private tennis court offers a lush setting for friendly competition. A freestanding threecar garage, on-site security guard house, and a full-property backup generator provide both luxury and peace of mind.

Whether you envision designing a modern showpiece or preserving the estate’s legacy with thoughtful updates, this is a rare chance to shape your dream residence in one of Tampa’s most refined neighborhoods. Beach Park’s historic charm, tree-lined streets, and vibrant community atmosphere make it a top choice for those seeking elegance and convenience.

5002 South Shore Crest Circle is more than a home—it’s a destination. Here, the horizon stretches wide with opportunity, and every detail has the potential to reflect your unique vision of luxury coastal living. M

Located in Hillsborough County in Beach Park, the property at 5002 South Shore Crest Circle is offered at $12,000,000 through Compass Florida. Presented by Mike Hughes and Christine Mastrilli with Compass. Contact Mike Hughes at 813.690.2811 or email mike@HughesShelton.com or Christine Mastrilli at 813.205.6195 or email christine@HughesShelton.com.