SARASOTA EDITION
FLORIDA DESIGN PREMIERE ISSUE!
Gulfside Bliss Spectacular Residences in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island & Longboat Key
DESIGN HERITAGE
The Enduring Legacy of the Sarasota School of Architecture
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It's only Natural The appeal of Wild Blue at Waterside by Stock Development is perfectly natural. With its prime Lakewood Ranch location, incredible amenities, and luxury single-family homes by some of the area’s finest builders, this waterfront community is the perfect blend of back-to-nature fun and resort-style living. Discover outdoor adventures at the 13-acre sports complex, and relax at the social clubhouse, with indoor and outdoor dining, two pools, a movie theater, fitness center, and a 9-hole premier putting course.
NOW INTRODUCING PHASE II OF THIS SPECTACULAR WATERFRONT COMMUNITY.
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Visit our sales center today. Sales Center: 8307 Lake Club Blvd., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 l 941.313.3852
WildBluelwr.com Residences from $1 million ANCHOR BUILDERS • AR HOMES BY ARTHUR RUTENBERG • JOHN CANNON HOMES LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES • STOCK LUXURY HOMES • STOCK CUSTOM HOMES ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ALL RENDERINGS AND PLANS ARE PROPOSED CONCEPTS SHOWN ONLY FOR MARKETING PURPOSES AND ARE BASED ON THE DEVELOPER’S CURRENT PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Proudly presented by DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, REVISE OR WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN DEVELOPER’S SOLE DISCRETION WITHOUT NOTICE. NOTHING HEREIN OR IN ANY OTHER COMMUNICATION SHALL BE DEEMED TO OBLIGATE THE DEVELOPER, OR ANY AFFILIATE OF DEVELOPER, TO CONSTRUCT THE PROJECT OR OFFER ANY OF THE PROJECT FOR SALE, AND NOTHING HEREIN SHALL BE DEEMED A GUARANTY OF ANY KIND. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SALE OR SOLICITATION OF OFFERS TO BUY.
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20 YEARS
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Inspired by inner passions.
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SARASOTA EDITION
FLORIDA DESIGN PREMIERE ISSUE!
Gulfside Bliss
CONTENTS
Spectacular Residences in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island & Longboat Key
vol. 1 no. 1
ON THE COVER 74
MOVING PARTS ARCHITECTURE BY JERRY SPARKMAN
DESIGN HERITAGE
One of the city’s leading architects puts his expertise
The Enduring Legacy of the Sarasota School of Architecture
to good use during the complex renovation of a Longboat Key residence.
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Photography by Ryan Gamma
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FEATURES 80
ENDLESS HOLIDAY INTERIOR DESIGN BY MEG CARSON & CHLOE HARLAN
Two designers deliver a forever-summer family
80
Endless Holiday
getaway in Longboat Key.
90
KARMIC CONNECTION INTERIOR DESIGN BY LAURA FREEMAN ARCHITECTURE BY DAVID WASH
Anna Maria Island entices an Atlanta designer to cross state lines and embrace Florida living.
102
PERSONAL STATEMENT INTERIOR DESIGN BY TRACEE MURPHY
A designer goes for sophisticated styling at her family home in Sarasota.
112
AMERICAN COASTAL INTERIOR DESIGN BY KELLY KAISER-PUTNAM
Barefoot elegance sets the tone at a beachside vacation villa in Siesta Key.
IN EVERY ISSUE 12
Editor’s Message
14
Publisher’s Note
16
Featured Designers
Copyright 2023, Florida Design’s Sarasota Edition, Volume 1#1 Fall 2023/Winter 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Palm Beach Media Group. Neither the publishers nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers. Ads in this publication are not intended as an offer where prohibited by state laws. Florida Design’s Sarasota Edition is published by Palm Beach Media Group North. Subscriptions are available for $15 per year: circulation@floridadesign.com. Postage paid at West Palm Beach, FL, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Palm Beach Media Group, 1000 N. Dixie Hwy., Suite C, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
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CONTENTS 28
Precious Glow
DETAILS
Viva Variety
50
23
FABRIC FINESSE
24
MODERN MACRAMÉ
30
FABRIC SOCIETY
26
VERDANT VARIETY
32
THE CHOICE IS CLEAR
28
PRECIOUS GLOW
34
PATIO PANACHE
DEPARTMENTS IN-DEPTH 36
EASTERN SENTIMENTS
60
THE FUTURE LOOKS GREEN
Designer Ryo Suzuki honors Japanese tradition with
An improvement plan at Marie Selby Botanical
the award-winning Sori/Mukuri duo.
Gardens ensures the venue’s future.
BUZZ 38
GARDENS
BUZZ
ART 62
CHOSEN MEDIUM Chasen Galleries’ new location continues its mission of
News on design from Sarasota and beyond
exposing superior glass art to Southwest Florida collectors.
FD ASKS ARCHITECTURE 46
BONDING WITH NATURE Landscape architect David Young on outdoor spaces
64
HOMEGROWN LEGACY The Sarasota School of Architecture continues to inspire
with heart and soul
the work of the city’s leading architects.
SHOWROOMS 50
70
DESIGN GUARDIANS Architecture Sarasota works hard to ensure the legacy
VIVA VARIETY
of the Sarasota School remains vibrant.
When it comes to inventory, no other venue comes close to International Design Source.
BEST OF SHOW 54
ZEN QUALITY Orderly elegance sets the retail tone at Shibui at Home.
118
DESIGN DISPATCH Highlights from the spring 2023 edition of High Point Market
TECH 58
TOUCHSCREEN LIVING
COVET
SmartHouse Integration is Sarasota’s go-to source for straightforward, intuitive home automation.
120
DETAILS UPGRADE Designer Angela Rodriguez believes Modern Matter’s precious hardware is the ideal finishing touch.
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You’ ve ar rived.
S A R A S O TA’ S M O S T I C O N I C WAT E R F R O N T S P E C I A L I S T S I N C E 1 9 8 0
941.924.6900 PE R RO N E C O N S T RU C T I O N.C O M
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SARASOTA EDITION
FLORIDA DESIGN EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
PUBLISHER
Daphne Nikolopoulos
Terry Duffy
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PUBLISHER, SARASOTA Elizabeth Goodman
Luis R. Rigual
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Harvey M. Dana | Jennifer Dardano
Laurie Spector
Susan Gibson Howard
ACQUISITIONS EDITOR
DIGITAL ACCOUNTS MANAGER
Annette Sessa-Galbo
Ryan Hollihan
WEB EDITOR
MARKETING MANAGER
Abigail Duffy
Rebecca Desir
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Tyler Sansone
Riki Altman-Yee | Christopher Day Jeanne De Lathouder | Saxon Henry
ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATOR
Mallory Jacobson | Ann Kaiser
Elizabeth Hackney
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
David Cannon | Steve Cartano | Ryan Gamma
Todd Schmidt
Laura Henry | Amy Lamb | Jimmy White
CIRCULATION/SUBSCRIPTIONS PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Marjorie Leiva
Selene M. Ceballo
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Judy Heflin
PRODUCTION MANAGER Lourdes Linares
CIRCULATION PROMOTIONS MANAGER David Supple
PRODUCTION COORDINATORS Ileana Caban
CIRCULATION ASSISTANT
Anaely J. Perez-Vargas
Britney Stinson
DIGITAL PREPRESS SPECIALIST
LOGISTICS MANAGER
George Davis
ADVERTISING DESIGN COORDINATOR
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST
Jeffrey Rey
Ana Coronel
ADVERTISING | EDITORIAL |
Omar Morales
561.472.1901 |
561.472.2217 |
floridadesign.com
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fax 561.659.1736
HOUR MEDIA, LLC ceo STEFAN WANCZYK president JOHN BALARDO
PUBLISHERS OF: Florida Design | Florida Design Miami | Florida Design Naples | Florida Design Sarasota | Florida Design Sourcebook | Palm Beach Illustrated Naples Illustrated | Palm Beach 100 | Naples 100 | Palm Beach Charity Register | Naples Charity Register | Stuart | Jupiter | Aventura Vero Beach Magazine | Palm Beach Relocation Guide | Southwest Florida Relocation Guide | Fifth Avenue South Naples on the Gulf: Naples Chamber of Commerce | Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation | Advances: Tampa General Hospital | Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club PUBLISHED BY PALM BEACH MEDIA GROUP NORTH, LLC | P.O. Box 3344 | Palm Beach, FL 33480 | 561.659.0210 10 FLORIDA DESIGN’S SARASOTA EDITION 1-1
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EDITOR’S MESSAGE
STORIES TO TELL After casually mentioning to a colleague that we were
LUIS R. RIGUAL Editor-in-Chief lrigual@floridadesign.com
PHOTO BY MANOLO DORESTE
expanding our Florida Design titles to include Sarasota, he immediately suggested I pick up a copy of Hidden History of Sarasota by Jeff LaHurd. Far from a design title, this book is full of interesting anecdotes about the city, its somewhat idiosyncratic past, and its more colorful characters. As it turns out, Sarasota is a town full of stories, and while LaHurd’s essays cover many of them, there are many more to be told. Fortunately for us, many of those stories have to do with design and architecture. And that’s the reason for the magazine in front of you. As editor-in-chief of Florida Design’s statewide edition for the last two of its nearly 34 years, I’ve noticed the increased reader interest in Sarasota as a result of the superior design work taking place in the region. This obviously includes architecture—the city has a whole style named after it—as well as interior décor, an arena in which top talents are daring to take exciting risks and putting their own mark on the tropical modernism that defines the area. I’ve also noticed an embrace of new ideas when it comes to art programming from museums and galleries, dynamic showroom additions, and talented artisans who deserve recognition. That’s where we come in. Florida Design Sarasota’s mission is to showcase the work of the design industry in this special part of the state, as well as present interior design at large with a Southwest Florida perspective. This premiere issue is a perfect example of what to expect going forward. In the pages to come you’ll find our roundup of the home trends of the moment (otherwise known as Details), news from the world of design (Buzz), articles on the latest moves from three of the city’s more established showrooms, and five outstanding residences, located from Sarasota proper to Anna Maria Island, with distinct design narratives. For this inaugural edition, we also decided to take a look at the Sarasota School of Architecture and its influence on hometown architects more than 80 years after its founding, and at the efforts of Architecture Sarasota to keep the School’s legacy alive for generations to come. Both articles have all the elements that make memorable narratives compelling. After all, what is design but a really good story?
12 FLORIDA DESIGN’S SARASOTA EDITION 1-1
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CAT TESLA FINE ART Large-Scale Contemporary Art 770.715.3573 | www.artbycat.com Free Shipping & Delivery Serving SW Florida
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
HELLO, SARASOTA! I’ve been waiting a while to write the following words: Welcome to
LIZ GOODMAN Publisher lgoodman@floridadesign.com
PHOTO BY MEGAN DIPIERO
the premiere issue of Florida Design Sarasota. Take a nice, long look at your new source for exceptional interior design, luxury home furnishings, trends, and innovations in the interiors arena, and so much more. This Sarasota edition of Florida Design is the fourth magazine under the FD umbrella and the third dedicated to a specific area of Florida, and it arrives after much success with our statewide, Miami, and Naples editions. Although this is our first volume, this title comes with 33 years of publishing history behind it, so if you’re interested in design with a Southwest Florida point of view, you’ve picked up the right publication. Our Florida Design expansion into the Cultural Coast has long been in the works, and when we finally put the wheels in motion to make it happen, we were certain there was enough superior design in Sarasota and its surrounding area to support it. This was solidified at our inaugural Seaglass Awards competition this past spring. This annual contest salutes design and architecture across the state in a variety of categories, and Sarasota-based firms brought their A-game and fared rather well with three coveted wins: best traditional/transitional kitchen for Lee Wetherington Homes, best traditional/transitional bathroom for Trade Mark Interiors, and best traditional/transitional primary bedroom for Distinctive Interiors. As we anticipate Seaglass 2024 in spring, my feeling is that this slice of paradise will do even better. The proof is in this issue, which highlights the inspiring design of firms like Emcy Interior Design, Merits Design Group, Orange Moon, and Trade Mark Interiors, as well as the superior architectural contributions of Carl Abbott, Epstein Architects, Jerry Sparkman, Max Strang, Guy Peterson, and Damien Blumetti. Our goal with each issue of Florida Design Sarasota is to present an interesting and diverse array of content highlighting the work of Sarasota’s top interior designers, architects, builders, and artisans. We will take you into the area’s most exquisite homes through stunning photography and in-depth narratives. And we are committed to bringing you intriguing coverage about the latest and most exciting ideas and innovations the design industry puts out—all with a Southwest Florida viewpoint as I mentioned before. Thank you to everyone who came together in the making of this first edition. Kudos to the editorial team for page after page of beautiful and interesting design coverage. And my endless gratitude to the advertisers and magazine partners out there who are supporting us on this new adventure. When talent and collaboration meet, the results are extraordinary. Enjoy the issue and please let me know what you think.
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LUXURY RESIDENTIAL DESIGN | VISIT CURRENT OUR RETAIL BOUTIQUE 75/83 COCOANUT AVE SARASOTA, FL 34236 | 941.953.4418 | STROUTINT@VERIZON.NET | SALLYTROUTINTERIORS.COM Florida License #0002504
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| FEATURED DESIGNERS |
JERRY SPARKMAN Sweet Sparkman Architecture “Moving Parts,” page 74
The tropical modernist home that graces our cover didn’t always look like it does now. Its current appeal has all to do with the work of Jerry Sparkman, one of Sarasota’s leading architects. The owners of the residence called Sparkman when they wanted to add square footage to the dwelling, but were limited in what they could do as a result of state code restrictions. Sparkman’s solution was to build up. “We made some improvements to make it more resilient to storms, but we still kept its position with the great vantage points across the sand,” he says. “We took our time and we did it properly.”
MEG CARSON & CHLOE HARLAN Emcy Interior Design “Endless Holiday,” page 80
After a husband and wife purchased their dream vacation home in Longboat Key and called on Emcy Interior Design to bring it to life, in came Meg Carson and Chloe Harlan to the rescue. Named Channelside for its private waterfront location, the property’s coastal environment drove the inspiration for the interior décor. “Organic, soft, and elevated, this home will remain timeless for its many years of family vacationing,” says Harlan. “The home gets rave reviews every time someone new visits. As one of the designers, that’s the best endorsement you can get.”
LAURA FREEMAN Merits Design Group “Karmic Connection,” page 90
Designer Laura Freeman ensured her getaway home in Anna Maria Island was everything she envisioned by overseeing the interior design herself. She did have some help, however. “Our architect, David Wash, captured the exterior style of modernCalifornia-meets-West-Indies that we were going for,” says Freeman. “Once the exterior shell was settled, I got to work on the interior spaces.” Her inspiration? The natural landscape right outside the house and a trip to Greece in 2018, where she fell in love with the open-air concept of living, white materials like linen and stucco, and layers of texture.
TRACEE MURPHY
KELLY KAISER-PUTNAM
Trade Mark Interiors “Personal Statement,” page 102
Orange Moon Interiors “American Coastal,” page 112
Although a bit intimidated at first, designer Tracee Murphy says that taking on the design work of her California-style ranch home in Sarasota allowed her to incorporate all the elements she loves about design and really lean into her own distinctive style. “The guiding principle that drove the design of this house was the idea of loved ones,” says Murphy. “I wanted a true family home with a classic and sophisticated aesthetic, and that’s what was achieved. This is a primary residence for my husband and I, as well as our youngest son, but between our other four children, who live in different cities but visit often, it always feels like a full house.”
When a New Hampshire businessman and father of two purchased a beachside villa in Siesta Key, all the vacation home had going for it was its prime location. Everything else was a blank slate, which was ideal for designer Kelly KaiserPutnam to work her magic. Kaiser-Putnam’s approach was to amplify the vacation feel of the property with a coastal look that makes the most out of natural textures and bold moments of pattern and color. In terms of surfaces, KaiserPutnam and her team opted for wallcoverings for wowmoments that, as the designer puts it, “are like walking into a story.” The end result? A home with soul where the family can make memories for many years to come.
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INTRODUCING
Weekender Coastal style is known for its light, relaxing and inviting nature. Capture this seamless simplicity with Weekender. Available now at universalfurniture.com.
Photographer: Michael Blevins // mblevinsphoto.com
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ADVERTORIAL
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18 FLORIDA DESIGN’S SARASOTA EDITION 1-1
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Luxury Furniture that Inspires Home Resource is the premier contemporary and modern furniture showroom on Florida’s West Coast. Representing some of the world’s most revered brands, the 7,000-square-foot showroom brilliantly displays sophisticated, stylish, and timeless designs. Experience the intersection of art and comfort and redefine your notion of luxury living. Stop in the showroom and experience HOME RESOURCE.
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ADVERTORIAL
EXPLORE THE MAINSTAY II, LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES’ MODERN COASTAL MODEL Surprises are everywhere in Lee Wetherington Homes’ Mainstay II model. In this article, the team describes their favorite eye-catching features across this new iteration of one of their most popular floor plans. “The style is Modern Coastal, a fresh take on coastal-inspired design,” said Tracy Eisnaugle, Design & Creative Director. “Utilizing shades of blue and charcoal mixed with lighter wood tones and layered textures results in sophistication.” “The primary suite is a true retreat with its spa-like bathroom, morning bar, makeup vanity and sumptuous bedroom with beautifully stained tambor molding,” said Alyson Byrne, Sales Consultant. “The staircase blends technical know-how and expert carpentry, featuring oak accents and lighting for a breathtaking result,” said Jae Cho, Vice President of Purchasing & Estimating. “Expansive glass windows and doors make living areas feel more spacious than their actual size and blur boundaries between interior and exterior spaces,” said Steve Nelson, Director of Architecture.
Tracy Eisnaugle
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LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES 7590 Fruitville Road, Suite 200 Sarasota, FL 34240 941-567-8144 lwhomes.com Jae Cho
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20 FLORIDA DESIGN’S SARASOTA EDITION 1-1
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CONSISTENCY IS A MAINSTAY,
Turning Aspirations into Art For over 40 years, Lee Wetherington Homes has believed “consistency” is the foundation for incomparable art that reflects a homeowner’s singular vision of life on the Suncoast. This mastery of the basic elements of residential construction – what makes a custom home last a lifetime – lays the canvas for breathtaking designs combined with bold innovations. As a trusted local homebuilder, our individualized process results in fully
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custom homes, like the stunning Mainstay II, that evoke an experience. For us, turning your aspirations into a reality is truly our mainstay.
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Scan the QR code to learn more about Lee Wetherington Homes.
9/11/23 8:54 AM
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compiled by ANNETTE SESSA-GALBO & LUIS R. RIGUAL
| DETAILS |
FABRIC FINESSE The fabrics and trimmings in the Isola collection by SCALAMANDRÉ are as versatile as textures get. Handcrafted with style and performance in mind, the textiles are engineered to provide durability, washability, and high-fade resistance, making them ideal for both interior and exterior environments.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCALAMANDRÉ
scalamandre.com
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| DETAILS |
modern macramé A HALLMARK OF 1970S STYLE, THE HANDS-ON TEXTILE TECHNIQUE FINDS NEW RELEVANCE IN HOME DESIGN
ABOVE: Designed by Ian Thornton
for CURREY & COMPANY, the Counterculture chandelier features three tiers of cotton thread woven onto a metal frame in a cream white finish. curreyandcompany.com
RIGHT: Created by fiber artist Rianne
Aarts for TEDDY AND WOOL, the Shifting Dunes tapestry features small knots on a half-moon frame and cotton fringes treated with gradient dye. teddyandwool.com
ABOVE: A blend of woven raw cotton, paper
mâché, and dark wood, the Lomas wall hanging from THE CITIZENRY is handcrafted by a small group of artisans in Queretaro, Mexico. the-citizenry.com
ABOVE: Organic cotton cords in dark green and beige are artfully knotted together in what MACRO MACRAMÉ calls a “striking layer of texture and tone.” macromacrame.com
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ReSourceful inspired solutions for every designer
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| DETAILS |
Verdant Variety A SYMBOL OF NEW BEGINNINGS, GREEN’S VIBE, ENERGY, AND TONALITIES MAKE IT THE IDEAL SHADE TO EMBRACE THE SEASONS AHEAD
LEFT: Made in Tolentino, Italy, by expert craftsmen, the Duo
armchair by POLTRONA FRAU features soft Art Deco lines to soften its olive-green intensity. poltronafrau.com
ABOVE: Elaborate swirls
create a marble-like effect on the Raine stool by MADE GOODS. madegoods.com
ABOVE: At 70 years old, the GUCCI horsebit is an iconic emblem of the brand. These green velvet cushions feature two interpretations of the symbol: gold hardware on leather in one version and a fabric-embossed motif on the other. gucci.com
RIGHT: Birds, monkeys, and lizards are out to play in the Indian Summer wallpaper mural by MILTON & KING, a testament to green’s varied tonalities. miltonandking.com
RIGHT: Designed by Bina Baitel for ROCHE BOBOIS, the dark green upholstery on the Perle sofa gives its classic silhouette a 1970s vibe. roche-bobois.com
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SECURITY
LIGHTING
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
A U T O M AT I O N
DESIGNER OF INTERIOR TECHNOLOGY 941 404 4470 SARASOTA | ST PETERSBURG 727 551 4944 smarthouseintegration.com
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| DETAILS |
LEFT: The bulb enclosures of the
Heera fixture by EUROFASE recall multifaceted gemstones hanging on gold chains. eurofase.com
A proven winner in the FINE ART HANDCRAFTED LIGHTING inventory, the Strata round pendant captures the energy of light and reflects it through its two hand-sculpted crystal gems. finearthl.com
ABOVE: The Allegra chandelier by HUDSON VALLEY breaks the circular form into separate staggered arcs that orbit around an aged brass orb at the center. hvlgroup.com
Precious Glow JEWEL-INSPIRED SCONCES AND CHANDELIERS SHINE A LIGHT ON GLAMOUR
LEFT: Made up of what looks like pavé
diamond rings, the properly named Rings chandelier by JADE CONNOR DESIGN is ideal for foyers, staircases, and any other highceiling space where it can drop down and dazzle the eye. jadeconnordesignstore.com
RIGHT: Reminiscent of a brooch, the
Rainforest sconce by CASTRO LIGHTING alludes to nature with goldplated brass and clear crystal. castrolighting.com
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INF INIT E PO S S IB IL IT IES . O NE S O UR C E.™
TILE & STONE
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Fabric Society
BIRDS AND BLOOMS MAKE THEIR WAY ONTO TEXTILES FOR A BOLD CELEBRATION OF COLOR
1
ABOVE: The new 28-piece Frances Valentine
collection from ANNIE SELKE features an assortment of flora and fauna, painterly stripes, and geometric patterns on bedding, pillows, and throws. annieselke.com
LEFT: The Cadenet print by BRUNSCHWIG &
FILS offers French countryside charm for a storybook home experience. kravet.com
ABOVE: Featuring majestic birds perched
on colorful blooms, the Botany Bay collection of fabrics by SCALAMANDRÉ was inspired by England’s Dorset coast. scalamandre.com
The Utopia collection by CHRISTIAN LACROIX features printed and embroidered fabrics that imagine an eternal spring. designersguild.com
LEFT: Available as linen
or velvet, the Thanda Nest fabric by NGALA TRADING depicts the male weaver birds of Africa. ngalatrading.com
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VACATION HOME INTERIOR DESIGN
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| DETAILS |
the choice is
CLEAR FURNITURE WITH TRANSPARENT DETAILING IS THE WAY TO GO
1
1 The Grisaille painted case of the Anji cabinet from THEODORE ALEXANDER is suspended
2
between clear acrylic slab supports that add a contemporary detail to an otherwise classical piece. theodorealexander.com 2 An acrylic pedestal with polished nickel accents supports the navy blue maple veneer of the Invicta side table by LEXINGTON. lexingtonfurniture.com
3 Moon-shaped acrylic legs and a gorgeous, burled surface make the Aerial table from UNIVERSAL a standout. universalfurniture.com
4 A mix of simplicity and glamour, the Jacques round bar cart by JONATHAN ADLER features clear acrylic, polished brass, and a mirrored top. jonathanadler.com 5 Four graceful, transparent arcs support the majestic Omni dining table
6
by CENTURY FURNITURE, a statement piece
3
thanks to its balance of curves and angles. centuryfurniture.com 6 An acrylic panel creates the illusion that the curved back of the Full View chair from CARACOLE is floating above its soft rounded seat. caracole.com
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Celebrating 20 years of unbridled curiosity and design excellence.
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| DETAILS | LEFT: Ideal for a loggia, the Jalore
chandelier by EUROFASE resembles the elongated oval leaves of an olive tree. eurofase.com
RIGHT: Part of MOLTENI&C’s debut garden collection, the D.154.2 chair is an outdoor version of Gio Ponti’s 1954 original, one of the late master’s most iconic pieces. molteni.it
Patio Panache THE LATEST COLLECTIONS OF OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES PUT ELEGANCE FIRST
LEFT: The latest
offerings from TIDELLI offer respite and stylish craftsmanship. The Hermosa hammock is made of weatherresistant rope atop an aluminum structure. The Obsession stools and lounge chair each take a full three days to complete because of the intricate rope pattern handwoven around the aluminum framing. tidelli.com
LEFT: The Malta outdoor chair by FOUR HANDS is
upholstered in olefin, a material that is UV-resistant, water-repellent, and quick-drying. fourhands.com
ABOVE: Designed by Emmanuel Gallina for POLIFORM as part of the brand’s first outdoor collection, the Magnolia sunbed is defined by its fluid lines and lightness. poliform.it
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Sarasota Architectural Woodworking FDS.indd 1
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| IN-DEPTH | THE BACKSTORY Part of the Tatami ReFab Project, a group furniture exhibition by a collective of Japanese creatives known as Honoka Lab, the Sori/Mukuri duo is designer Ryo Suzuki’s contribution to the showcase (which ended up winning the SaloneSatellite Award at the 2023 Milan Furniture Fair). The table (Sori) and light fixture (Mukuri) are constructed of a material made by mixing biodegradable resin with igusa grass from discarded tatami mats, staples of Japanese homes for centuries whose usage is now declining year by year.
THE PROCESS After using 3D printing technology on the new tatami-resin material, the table and fixture are “knitted” into shape. The pieces’ textured structure has a moderate transparency, which changes depending on the angle from which they are viewed.
Eastern Sentiments DESIGNER RYO SUZUKI’S SORI/MUKURI DUO NODS TO JAPANESE TRADITION WHILE MAKING A STATEMENT ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY text LUIS R. RIGUAL
THE INSPIRATION
THE FINAL WORD “Sustainability is not yet fully embraced in Japan, so that’s why we focused on tatami mats,” says Suzuki. “While the mats have an important role in Japanese culture, 40 percent of the raw materials used in their production go to waste. We saw an opportunity to reconstruct these discarded materials as furniture and, in the process, bring attention to an industry that’s declining.” honoka-lab.jp
PHOTO COURTESY OF HONOKA LAB
“I was inspired by the shapes used in traditional Japanese architecture and the process by which craftsmen weave material during the production of tatami mats,” says Suzuki. “The names I chose are terms used in traditional Japanese architecture. Sori refers to the warped form, and Mukuri refers to the rounded form.”
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Art that puts Happiness in Your Home...
meg krakowiak
contemporary art gallery & studio
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60 South Palm Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236
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| BUZZ | COMPILED BY LUIS R. RIGUAL
MAJOR SWEEP
SARASOTA ARCHITECTS WIN BIG AT THE 2023 FLORIDA AIA AWARDS No strangers to accolades, Sarasota-area architecture firms had a standout year at the recent Florida Association of Architects (AIA) 2023 Design and Honor Awards. Among the big winners was Damien Blumetti, whose firm took the most awards this year—a total of three. Hive Architects, Strang Design, and the renowned Guy Peterson Office for Architecture each went home with two awards. Sweet Sparkman Architecture earned one. Halflants + Pichette was singled out for its design of the School of Architecture at the University of South Florida, and Solstice Planning and Architecture was honored for the preservation and restoration of Lido Shores’ Umbrella House. Sarasota newbie WJ Architects,
ABOVE AND RIGHT:
which opened an office on Fruitville
Sarasota’s Hive Architects was honored twice for the same project at the 2023 Florida AIA Awards. The firm’s Shibusa residence won for both its interior and exterior design.
Road in 2022, took the Firm of the Year honor. Submissions for the awards came from all 13 AIA chapters in the Florida/Caribbean region. “The Gulf Coast chapter is always well represented, but this year was a standout,” said Blumetti, who also serves as AIA Gulf Coast president. “I think Sarasota stood out for the high level of design we’re producing while maintaining our unique style for each firm.” aiafla.org
THE NAME GAME Charles and Ray Eames fans, take note. Herman Miller recently released the Eames Turned Stool, inspired by designs and technical drawings the famous design couple left behind. A new take on what was previously known as the Eames Walnut Stool, the new piece introduces a new shape and a new finish in ebonized ash. The original stool was introduced in 1960 when Charles and Ray Eames were commissioned to design three lobbies for the then newly constructed Time & Life Building at Rockefeller Center in New York Herman Miller’s 100th anniversary this year. store.hermanmiller.com
LEFT AND RIGHT: Reminiscent of a chess piece, the Eames Turned Stool is the newest version of the Eames Walnut Stool. Charles and Ray Eames designed the original to serve as a seat, a side table, or an eye-catching sculpture.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS & VENUES
City. The stool’s new iteration coincides with
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| BUZZ | Forcole (2016) by Lino Tagliapietra recalls the fluid forms of sea creatures.
The Atrium colorway from Calico’s Lyric collection mostly offers shades of green.
FRAGILE CONTENT
Calico founder Rachel Cope with the tools of her trade.
A NEW EXHIBITION AT THE SARASOTA ART MUSEUM PUTS THE FOCUS ON FINE GLASS
Time & Place The inspiration for Lyric, the newest collection from Calico Wallpaper, is just as poetic as its name implies. “Lyric is rooted in this mythical place where habitations are arranged on hillsides as the land allows,” says Calico Today’s glass artists are pushing the traditional boundaries of their medium by asserting their own vision in the works they put out. That is the common thread throughout Contemporary/ Traditional: Selections from the Basch
founder Rachel Cope, “where the soft hues of stone and the blue of the ocean seem like the only colors anyone needs, and everything is deepened by sun, salt, and time.” Based on original artwork, the line is available in seven colorways: Arcade, Archway, Atrium, Cupula, Dome, Doric, and Stoa. calicowallpaper.com
Glass Collection (through Feb. 11, 2024),
below: The Archway colorway from Calico’s Lyric collection
a new exhibition that showcases a
offers subtle earth tones with peeks of sky blue.
small range of glassworks from the late 20th and 21st centuries, at the Sarasota Art Museum of the Ringling College of Art & Design. From organic forms that resemble living creatures frozen in time to geometric abstractions that defy description, the vessels on display represent the work of artists such as Dale Chihuly, Debora Moore, Jun Kaneko, Carmen Lozar, Lucio highlights just 40 of the 300 works from the Basch Glass Collection, which will eventually be donated to the Ringling. sarasotaartmuseum.org
above left: Uran (2014) by Laura de Santillana left: Nero, from the Species Novae series, (2018), by Philip Baldwin and Monica Guggisberg.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS & VENUES
Bubacco, and others. The exhibition
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FOREVER YOUNG LIGNE ROSET’S TOGO GETS A 50TH ANNIVERSARY REINVENTION
Who would have guessed that a sofa that resembles a “tube of toothpaste folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends,” as designer Michael Ducaroy described it, would go on to become such an iconic part of design history? Introduced in 1973 by Ligne Roset at the Salon des Arts Ménagers in Paris, the Togo “seat cushion” was immediately embraced by the hippie generation and many others since. In honor of its 50th anniversary, Ligne Roset has released two new versions of the piece: an Atom ABOVE AND ABOVE LEFT: The Toile du Peintre edition
of Michael Ducaroy’s Togo (in chair and sofa versions) is produced in factories in Briord, a small village in the Bugey region of France.
Farrow & Ball’s Wine Dark paint on the ceiling and walls of this bedroom gives the appearance of more space.
version in colorful bouclé by Belgian fashion designer Raf Simons and the Toile du Peintre version, a reinvention by French brand Pierre Frey featuring the artwork of painter Heather Chontos. These limited editions are expected to sell out fast. ligne-roset.com
COLOR DYNAMICS Farrow & Ball’s latest title, How to Redecorate, is about much more than just paint—although there’s plenty of that. With advice from the company’s color curator, Joa Studholme, and creative director, Charlotte Cosby, the volume is a thorough guide (and mood board) into the nuances of color and how it affects everything in interior design—from the architecture of a room to its furniture placement. Studholme and Cosby’s tips on palette, as well as on patterns, light, furniture, and accessories are backed by years of design industry work, and the book’s superior photography (of rooms we can actually envision ourselves living in) makes it a standout resource for any library.
LEFT: The Bamboozle hue from Farrow & Ball on
the divide between two rooms introduces some “spice” in the home. ABOVE INSET: Farrow & Ball’s latest book covers the differences color can make in interior design.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS
farrow-ball.com
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Build your dream home today!
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9/26/23 8:43 AM
| BUZZ |
Design Occasion DESIGNER HOLLY HUNT RETURNS TO THE COMPANY SHE CREATED FOR A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION
ABOVE: HH40’s Caldera cocktail table features a stone slab surface and a cast-bronze frame.
ABOVE AND BELOW: TMI Baths’ Twyla tub is made from a proprietary
mineral composite mixture and treated with a chemically bonded finish for a non-porous and durable final result.
LEFT: Designer
Holly Hunt
Although she sold the company in 2014, Holly Hunt, the designer, recently made a return visit to Holly Hunt, the brand, in honor of the latter’s 40th anniversary. The reason? HH40, a new collection of furniture and lighting created in collaboration with Holly Hunt’s studio team led by Creative Director Jo Annah Kornak. “HH40 was a joy,” says Hunt, who now spearheads House of Hunt. “When I opened the first showroom 40 years ago, I didn’t have a business plan, but I had a vision. This collection embodies that vision and pushes it further. It celebrates the expansive With silhouettes that range from refined and architectural
BATHROOM GLAMOUR
to organic and sensual, HH40
There seems to be a shift in bathroom design
covers sofas, lounge chairs,
as of late. Spa-inspired minimalism has given
cocktail tables, a bedroom series,
way to understated (and, sometimes, not so
dining tables, lighting, and various
understated) glamour, and with that come
types of accessories. “It was an
curvy shapes, statement lighting, and eye-
extraordinary collaboration,”
catching accessories. The new Twyla from MTI
says Kornak. “We worked closely
Baths certainly qualifies. The freestanding tub
with Holly to transform ideas and
has a graceful oval silhouette enhanced by a
concepts into pieces that function
flat trim and an unexpected square-patterned
as a perfectly articulated detail
texture on the exterior that adds dimension
in the story of how clients live.”
and visual interest. As an added plus, the tub
hollyhunt.com
is ergonomically designed to fit two bathers comfortably and its cast stone construction
LEFT: HH40’S Dune lounge chair is
covered in hand-tailored upholstery and set on a walnut base.
provides insulating properties that keep water warmer longer. Indulgent bubble baths just got way more enticing. mtibaths.com
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS
possibilities of modern design.”
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| FD ASKS | Reflecting pools are a common feature in DWY’s projects, as evidenced by this beachfront Siesta Key residence.
Bonding With Nature DAVID YOUNG BELIEVES IN LANDSCAPE DESIGN THAT DEEPENS OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GREAT OUTDOORS text CHRISTOPHER DAY
With offices in Naples and Sarasota, DWY Landscape Architects is well-versed in the alfresco design needs (and whims) of Southwest Florida homeowners. Heading up the award-winning firm is David Young, a seasoned professional who advocates for green spaces that blur indoor/outdoor boundaries and establish a connection to our environment.
purpose and beauty. You call yourself and your team “stewards of the land.” What does that mean? That’s just a term we learn in school that applies to the profession overall. We work for the good of the land, not against it. Can you tell us a bit about DWY’s approach to sustainability? Generally speaking, we appreciate Florida’s wonderful and unique natural systems, and we do all that we can to not only do no harm but to mitigate or repair the
What’s your company’s philosophy on landscape architecture? Good design
damage done by construction.
is not arbitrary; it’s the derivative of an informed creative process in which
Specifically, what are some of your green practices? We do our best to
client programming is studied and defined within the context of the natural
use regionally sourced materials, native species, and low-volume, water-
systems of a site to give rise to a form whose aesthetic has the qualities of
wise irrigation techniques. Additionally, we think of low-impact development
and collaborative process that is in touch with the ‘spirit’ of the site’s spatial influences, architecture, and natural environment,” says company founder David Young. “The focus is always on the development of space, clarity of design, and continuity with the architecture.”
left: This garden labyrinth in a beachside estate in
Siesta Key employs a species of bamboo known as Dwarf Buddha Belly. “The labyrinth is adjacent to the residence’s spa space,” says Young. “The idea was that the homeowner would see it as she was being massaged and then spend time on it after her treatments.”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DWY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
left: “DWY follows a creative
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Where Talent Comes Naturally
VISIT OUR 110,000 SQFT SHOWROOM | BY APPOINTMENT ONLY IBSG Showroom: 2818 Center Port Circle, Pompano Beach, FL 33064 | 954-735-8223 FL State License IB13000407 | LEED accredited | Established 1984 www.interiorsbysteveng.com Florida Design Sarasota Issue.indd 1
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| FD ASKS |
left: “I love incorporating art into my work when
possible and this sculpture is from my favorite artist, Rafael Barrios,” says Young. “We wanted a monumental piece for this Sarasota garden, and these clients were willing to make the financial commitment. They were extremely pleased with the outcome.”
below: “In this image you see two structural
components,” says Young. “In the foreground is an aluminum pergola under which is a fire trough and a water wall for ambiance. In the background is a pavilion constructed of masonry that serves as a transition from inside the home, so you’re not thrusted into the landscape all at once.”
environments where visitors could enjoy a glass of wine while immersed in
reducing impervious surfaces and specifically addressing stormwater
a rich and verdant landscape.
design in a way that slows the flow of stormwater, allowing it to infiltrate
What about hardscape and surface materials? What do you gravitate
back into the ground.
toward? Regional or regionally inspired materials like limestone and shell
What are some of the specific challenges to landscape design in
to evoke the feeling of Florida.
Southwest Florida? There’s a myriad of them. Storms during hurricane
A great deal of your work features some impressive reflecting pools.
season, saltwater intrusion, insects and plant diseases that spread across
What’s the idea behind that? We just feel they’re a great way to create
the state, water use restrictions, lighting restrictions for turtle nests
an experience and integrate the surrounding landscape by reflecting it on
compliance, and many others.
the feature. Done well, they add to the richness of the space and provide
What species of plant life do you like to work with and why? We like
sensory aspects for the home’s residents and visitors.
to use a plant palette that is roughly 75 to 90 percent native mixed
You’ve had your company for more than 23 years. What keeps you
with Florida-friendly non-native supporting species. We try to create
inspired day after day? Our clients and the artistic qualities of the work
experiences that are memorable and enjoyable. For instance, we just
keep things fresh and interesting. I also enjoy working with other creatives
finished a series of garden spaces that wrap around an all-glass wine
like architects, interior designers, artists, and craftspeople to achieve a
venue in Naples where the idea was to create enjoyable contemplative
common vision for a project. That’s very rewarding. dwyla.com
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DWY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
methods when dealing with development overall. And we work hard at
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9/26/23 8:47 AM
| SHOWROOMS |
RIGHT: A Celine sectional, Alexander chair, and Archive wicker cocktail table, all by Hickory Chair, make up a furniture display at International Design Center’s Rock House showroom.
VIVA VARIETY WITH FOUR SHOWROOMS IN SARASOTA AND ANOTHER ON THE WAY, INTERNATIONAL DESIGN SOURCE PROVES DIVERSIFICATION IS THE KEY TO WINNING DESIGN TEXT RIKI ALTMAN-YEE
Southwest Florida tastemakers who believe successful design starts with superior choices are well-familiar with International Design Source (IDS) and its nine area showrooms. The company, from second-generation furniture retailer Emilio Sadez and his wife, Linda, seems to have become a must-stop destination for interior designers from the moment it opened its doors in 1997. Its secret, many say, is never resting on its laurels. By all accounts, IDS is a company in a constant state of evolution. In Sarasota, one of IDS’ shrewdest moves has been its approach to inventory distribution. Four showrooms in the same city, as IDS has in Sarasota, sounds like overkill, but not when each of those locations offers something different, and IDS makes good on that. Its Furniture showroom is stocked with transitional and contemporary pieces, as well as a lighting and rug gallery. Marketplace focuses on the coastal lifestyle and outdoor living. The Vanguard Studio
IDS and furniture maker Hurtado recently partnered to increase the Spanish brand’s presence in Sarasota through IDS’ showrooms. LEFT: Hurtado’s Bond chair is made of solid wood and can be customized with a variety of upholstery and finish options. RIGHT: Hurtado’s Emerald credenza features the company’s signature starburst design.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL DESIGN SOURCE
houses the Vanguard furniture brand exclusively, and a 5,000-square-foot library of fabric
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Chasen Galleries
is proud to announce our newest location @ the Mark 99 S. Pineapple Av Sarasota 941-955-0155
Featuring glass artist Jaroslav Prosek Come visit our original location
1830 South Osprey Avenue, Ste 102 Sarasota, FL 34239 (941) 260 5787 www.chasengalleries.com
Chasen Galleries_FDS11.indd 1
9/29/23 8:45 AM
| SHOWROOMS | RIGHT: A Rock House vignette showcases a number of Century Furniture products and accessories together.
samples from the industry’s top vendors. IDS’ newest showroom, Rock House Designer Brands by International Design Source, is dedicated to the product range from Century
Furniture,
Hickory
Chair,
Jessica
Charles,
Highland House, Hancock & Moore, and Maitland-Smith, six brands under the Rock House umbrella. Together, IDS’ four locations represent 40,000 square feet of inventory. “It’s rather impressive,” says Tony Siefert, general manager of Sarasota operations, “and there’s even more to come.” That would be another 4,000 square feet to accommodate additional coastal and outdoor living collections. Another of IDS’ winning strategies has been pursuing brand associations when introducing new names to the market. A recent partnership with the Spanish furniture company Hurtado, which has gained significant traction in the U.S. as of late, will bring a representative from the headquarters in Valencia to serve as a brand ambassador and work with IDS through ABOVE: Hurtado’s Coral credenza
offers a slim silhouette made of wood with a metal frame.
2024. As part of this arrangement, IDS will increase Hurtado’s floor display significantly, allowing the brand to properly showcase its contemporary lines. Customer satisfaction is also high on IDS’ list of priorities. Although its showrooms are officially to-thetrade only, IDS will accommodate potential buyers to footprint, which also includes significant warehouse space, means product delivery can happen within days as opposed to weeks or even months. The sum of these efforts makes it clear that IDS’ greatest asset may just be its forward thinking, a tactic the company has demonstrated since inception. “We don’t ever want to be stagnant,” says Siefert. “We work very hard to stay ahead of the curve.” ids1.com LEFT: Headboards from Hurtado’s Bond Collection can be customized
with various finishes, including wood, metal, fabric, and leather.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL DESIGN SOURCE
come experience all its 300 brands in person. Its vast
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10/4/23 12:49 PM
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| SHOWROOMS |
Zen Quality
left: A vignette at Shibui
at Home reveals the showroom’s carefully curated inventory, which includes pieces from all around the world.
text SAXON HENRY
At a time when most business owners would be slowing down, Gail Carlson is celebrating 30 years in the home retail industry with a new showroom. Inspired by the Japanese aesthetic for simple, subtle, and unobtrusive beauty, Shibui at Home is a showplace for furniture, accessories, and extras that embody those qualities. “This store has enabled us to open our curated collection of handcrafted furniture, artisan textiles, and rare finds for the home to the general public,” says Carlson. “We’ve set out to create fully furnished interiors with a vision that rises above the ordinary.”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHIBUI AT HOME
A NEW SHOWROOM FROM ONE OF SARASOTA’S INTERIOR DESIGN PIONEERS LEANS INTO ARTISAN STYLE WITH ENDURING APPEAL
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JONATHAN HERBERT CREATING FINE ART FOR FIFTY YEARS
Mint Tea, 2023, acrylic and urethane on canvas, 60 x 72 inches
Commissions welcomed. Studio visits by appointment. Jonathan Herbert (b. 1952, New York City) explores the nonverbal relationship between cosmology and consciousness. He creates unique, intuitive formulations of water-based paint using acrylic and urethane media made on the spot, mid-process. He explores the nonverbal nature of creative inspiration via intuition. These works examine the richness of the present moment. Herbert received his diploma from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston in 1977. He continued his studies, via an Independent Study Award from the Museum School, for more than a year in Antwerp, Belgium. He began exhibiting in 1978 in Soho and the East Village and has garnered several solo exhibitions. Many of his group shows have been in New York City. Herbert currently lives and works in Sarasota, Florida.
Come see me at the Art Fairs! Check jonathanherbert.com/fairs for all dates. Tenth Street Gallery . 1655 Tenth Street . Sarasota . Florida . 34236 tel 917.673.6789 . jonathan@tenthstreetgallery.com . @jherbertartist
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| SHOWROOMS |
ABOVE: The Plane sofa by Bracci offers a mix of
LEFT: The Jazz collection of linens by SDH
wood and metal with a sleek silhouette that adapts to various types of spaces.
is made with Egyptian cotton and silk.
While Shibui at Home is new, Carlson herself is no newcomer. Her Studio G Home, which is both an interior design firm and a furnishings retailer, has had a strong standing in Sarasota for the last three decades. Previously, the offerings offered by Carlson and her team were only available to their interior design clients and the Studio G location wasn’t large enough to showcase those collections in the way she envisioned it, so Shibui at Home (located in a historic building at 401 S. Pineapple Avenue) is the natural progression of her brand. While the name of the store implies an Asian-leaning inventory, that isn’t the case. “We opted for that name because our goal was to put together a collection that was simple, unobtrusive, enduring, and classic,” explains Carlson. “The word ‘shibui’ expresses that perfectly.” Among the selections are sleek sectionals, multi-tiered chandeliers, fine fabrics, coffee tables that juxtapose materials, and one-of-a-kind items from Italy, Brazil, and made Studio G exceptional for more than 30 years,” adds Carlson. “Everything is in-stock, in-store, and ready for delivery.” As for why this showroom now? “Sarasota has a hometown feel, but it also has a very well-traveled population that is very discerning,” says Carlson. “They’re looking for casual, barefoot elegance appointed with beautiful, high-end pieces, and that’s what we’re offering.” shibuiathome.com
Featuring a metal surface and wood base, this Taracea coffee table exemplifies Shibui’s discerning inventory selection.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHIBUI AT HOME
Portugal. “The pieces are from the same talented designers that have
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9/15/23 7:48 PM
| TECH |
touchscreen living SARASOTA’S SMARTHOUSE INTEGRATION BRINGS A STRAIGHTFORWARD APPROACH TO HOME AUTOMATION text
RIKI ALTMAN-YEE
above: SmartHouse Integration provides systems that allow homeowners to control nearly every feature of their homes
indoors and out, from pool and landscape lighting to security cameras and entertainment systems.
In the mid-1980s, the American Association of House Builders coined the term “smart home,” anticipating a day when homeowners would be able to control their lighting, air-conditioning, security systems, and electric devices remotely from either a telephone or computer. Back then, the idea conjured up images of a Jetsons-like future, yet here we are. Today’s home automation technology not only delivers on all those 1980s promises, but it allows us to Google to turn on the lights when we arrive, and monitoring our front doors via smartphone video when we’re away. In more exclusive homesteads, it can mean adjusting the temperature of the wine cellar or ensuring the lights in the bedroom keep circadian rhythms in check with just a few clicks on a keyboard. This is where pros like Mark van den Broek come in. The founder of Sarasota’s SmartHouse Integration has been providing bespoke home technology solutions since he opened shop in 1998. “We are designers of interior technology,” he says. “We are here to create an environment.” When van den Broek started his company in Cleveland, home automation system components were above: Regardless of size, SmartHouse
Integration’s command centers can be discreetly hidden from view.
cumbersome and houses were not pre-wired to accommodate them, but his unique approach made homeowners more accepting. “I’m not a techie guy,” he explains. “I have an art degree. I know it’s all about what you touch, what you see, and what you feel, so that’s what we focus on.” In other words, he understands the “don’t tell
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SMARTHOUSE INTEGRATION
perform tasks that we now take for granted: opening the doors to our homes with a fingerprint, telling Alexa or
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right: Proper lighting and exact temperature by SmartHouse Integration
in this glass wine closet ensure the wines are kept in optimal condition.
me how it works, just make it work” customer mentality very well. Van den Broek landed in Sarasota in 2006 after a project at a large condo complex convinced him the city had a demand for his expertise. Since then, he’s become the area’s go-to guy for automation that’s state-of-the-art,
unobtrusive,
and
intuitive
with
services that include all the aforementioned actions and more. A fully automated SmartHouse residence often involves numerous cables and shelves of servers, but van den Broek’s technicians and installers ensure none of that technology is seen. All customers need to worry about is which screen on their smartphone the SmartHouse app is on. above: A SmartHouse
Integration client monitors the security cameras around his property from his family room.
“We work very, very hard to make it all very, very simple,” says van der Broek. “Otherwise, what’s the point?” The “non-techie” tech guru is thinking ahead as well. As facial recognition, voice control, and enhanced WiFi systems reach even more sophisticated levels of operation thanks to AI advancements, the future of home automation sounds fantastically ineffable, but van den Broek plans to be there for all of it. “I see myself as the conductor of an orchestra,” he says. “My job is to curate these systems to create beautiful environments.” smarthouseintegration.com
Indoor to outdoor lighting transition is one of SmartHouse Integration’s most requested services.
above: A SmartHouse
Integration tablet controls automation features from anywhere in the home.
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| GARDENS |
THE FUTURE LOOKS GREEN THE FIRST PHASE OF AN AMBITIOUS PLAN TO ENSURE THE LEGACY OF MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS COMES TO FRUITION text RIKI ALTMAN-YEE
For half a century, Southwest Florida visitors and locals have been drawn to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a place beloved and respected by nature lovers
above: The Downtown Sarasota campus of Marie Selby Botanical
for its abundant plant life, as well as for its little-known but significant conservation
Gardens will debut a welcome center, a lily pond garden, and a plant research facility this November.
and research efforts. But, like any well-trodden attraction, the venue thirsted for
below: The new Sail with Selby Gardens program transports visitors between the Downtown Sarasota campus and the Historic Spanish Point location via Sarasota Bay.
rejuvenation. Thanks to years of planning, generous donors, and a team determined to make sustainability a priority, by year’s end, Selby Gardens will lift the curtain on a major overhaul at its Sarasota Downtown campus designed to take it into the future. Jennifer Rominiecki has been preparing for this new chapter from the moment she interviewed for the role of president and CEO in 2015. “Everything about the Selby and its collections is magical in every way,” she says. “But at the Downtown Sarasota campus, we were dealing with aging infrastructure in a flood zone. The need for improvements was very apparent.”
acres of land along Sarasota Bay and focuses on plant life native to Florida, as well as specimens from rainforests and deserts. Less than 10 miles to the south is the Historic Spanish Point campus, which boasts 30 acres dedicated to the area’s native and pioneer history, and native Florida plantings. About a year into her tenure, Rominiecki introduced a master plan focused on innovation and sustainability that would ultimately comprise three phases. Phase one, the most ambitious of the three, is scheduled to reach completion by the end of 2023 and its results will yield an improved welcome center, gallery, and theater, along with a plant research center that will house a new herbarium for Selby’s preserved plant collections, several laboratories, and an extensive library with rare books dating to
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS
To those unfamiliar with the venue, Selby Gardens consists of two campuses. The Downtown Sarasota campus (where the upgrades are taking place) features 15
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the 1700s and multiple preserved specimens of plant life.
also underway, including a water lily pond and a Florida Glades garden
“Until now, a regular visitor would have never
showcase. A big part of phase one’s unveiling will be the Living Energy
understood the level of research happening
Access Facility (LEAF), a building that will house additional parking, a new
behind the scenes,” says Rominiecki. “We’re
gift shop and a farm-to-table restaurant featuring vegetables grown in a
really excited about revealing our hidden
rooftop garden. LEAF’s most impressive feature, however, will be its
treasures to the public.”
50,000-square-foot solar array, which will turn Selby into the first net-
Numerous new garden additions are
positive botanical garden in the world. “We will be generating more energy than we consume,” says Rominiecki. While the details of the subsequent phases are still being worked out, plans call for a hurricane-resilient greenhouse complex with an adjacent indoor/outdoor learning pavilion; unified pathways; repairs to the dock and sea walls; and a full historic renovation of the landmark Payne Mansion, which houses the Selby’s popular museum. The cost for phase one alone is $57 million, most of which came from private donors. “Less than 1 percent of our total funding came from government, so this project truly is a above: Hibiscus and
orchids are among the nearly 13,000 specimens of plants at Selby Gardens. left: The Selby’s koi pond is one of the park’s most visited spots.
gift to the region,” says Rominiecki. “The more Selby grows, the more our planet benefits. During our 50-year history, our scientists have discovered or described more than 2,000 species of plants. This type of work offers critical information to worldwide conservation efforts. After all, if you don’t know what the world has, how can you conserve it?” selby.org
This aerial map of Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus shows the additions to come once the master plan is completed. By the end of 2023, the venue will boast an innovative stormwater management system that collects rainwater and filters it before returning it to Sarasota Bay.
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| ART |
LEFT: Stephan Cox’s
Teapots figures recall human bodies in motion.
Chosen Medium WITH A NEW SECOND LOCATION ON PINEAPPLE AVENUE, CHASEN GALLERIES SOLIDIFIES ITS STATUS AS SARASOTA’S LEADING GLASS ART DESTINATION TEXT SAXON HENRY
Andrew Chasen has been taking a chance on Sarasota’s art scene since he first moved here in 1994. That year, he opened his first gallery on Palm Avenue. “It was a whim,” says the art dealer. “I saw a gallery space for sale while driving, purchased it, and we opened a few months later.” Whim or not, the business did well enough to remain in operation through 2002. By then, Chasen had moved to Richmond, Virginia, to pursue other career opportunities. In 2017, on a return visit to Sarasota, he noticed all the luxury real estate going up and realized there was a market for another gallery. “I saw all these buyers who had traditional homes up north but were much more contemporary with their tastes in Sarasota,” says Chasen. “Those were the people I was after.” In October of that year, Chasen Galleries opened its doors at Southside Village with a focus on what Chasen calls “variety and color.” Since then, his mission has been to introduce glass artists from all around Cathy Shepard, Kathleen Mulcahy, Randi Solin, Toland Sand, Stephan Cox, Phil Vickery, and others. As it turned out, Chasen was right about the art predilections of those snowbirds. Since he opened shop, response to his inventory has been overwhelmingly positive. So much so that he opened a second Chasen Galleries (at 99 S. Pineapple Avenue) in October. Chasen is not looking to reinvent the wheel with his latest venue, where the emphasis will continue to be on international glass artists (most of whom have never been shown in Sarasota) and the aforementioned “variety and color” he loves so much. “Glass art is in such high demand right now,” says Chasen. “There’s just something about it that attracts people to it, a visceral reaction. I’m happy I’m able to connect collectors to these amazing artists.”
ABOVE: Markow & Norris’
Peacock Kite is made of glass “woven” or maneuvered to resemble colorful paper.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHASEN GALLERIES
the world to Southwest Florida collectors. That includes names such as Jaroslav Prozek, Jean-Mark Meadow,
chasengalleries.com
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ANNOUNCING THE ANNUAL 2024
SEAGLASS AWARDS
Recognizing design excellence in Florida
We invite interior designers, architects, and other design professionals across the state to submit their best Florida-based projects for this competition. Submissions for outstanding commissions in multiple categories will be accepted through December 15, 2023.
Seaglass
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10/3/23 1:48 PM
| ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE ||
Homegrown
Legacy
EIGHT DECADES AFTER ITS INCEPTION, THE SARASOTA SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE CONTINUES TO INFORM AND DEFINE THE WORK OF THE CITY’S LEADING ARCHITECTS text SAXON HENRY
VILLA CEDRO & LIDO BAYFRONT RESIDENCE PHOTOS BY STEVEN BROOKE STUDIOS; SUMMERHOUSE RESTAURANT PHOTO BY JOHN TWITCHELL; CARL ABBOTT PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCHITECT
Villa Cedro, or the House of Cedar, is an award-winning residence designed in 1984 by Carl Abbott. It sits on a secluded two-acre site in northeast Sarasota’s Hidden Forest subdivision. “What held everything together in balance was the land…nature itself,” says Abbott of the design.
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left: The former Summerhouse Restaurant, this
building by Carl Abbott is a glass pavilion set in a tropical jungle that has now become a community center for a development. The design provides an orderly, yet rambling series of spaces, some intimate, some grand.
VILLA CEDRO & LIDO BAYFRONT RESIDENCE PHOTOS BY STEVEN BROOKE STUDIOS; SUMMERHOUSE RESTAURANT PHOTO BY JOHN TWITCHELL; CARL ABBOTT PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCHITECT
right: Recently honored with the Presidential Award at the 2023 AIA (American Institute of Architects) Florida Convention, Carl Abbott is the youngest member of the Sarasota School of Architecture.
The Lido Bayfront Residence was designed by Abbott in 1981. Demolished in 2012, the home had a north-facing wall for privacy and protection against winter winds and opened up to the south with sweeping views of the bay and the jungle.
When
Sarasota
architect
Carl
Abbott
was
contemplating graduate school, he couldn’t decide whether to study under Paul Rudolph at Yale University or Louis Kahn at the University of Pennsylvania. By choosing Yale, he unknowingly made himself a member of a monumental movement. Today, the American Institute of Architects Fellow is the youngest member of the Sarasota School of Architecture, the movement (also known as Sarasota Modern) that emerged on Florida’s Gulf Coast after WWII and is characterized by open-plan structures that specifically address our subtropical climate. The interconnections Abbott describes as he ticks through the highlights of his education and career form a veritable who’s-who of Sarasota School alums, beginning with his first professional collaboration with Joe Farrell and continuing through stints working with Bert Brosmith and Victor Lundy. His studies with Rudolph, one of the founders of the Sarasota School of Architecture with Ralph Twitchell, took him into the stratosphere. Still practicing today, Abbott says about his indoctrination, “It wasn’t easy for students studying under Rudolph to make it, but if they did, they would go on to make significant contributions.” In addition to the aforementioned names, the full roster of the Sarasota School elite includes Gene Leedy, Jack West, William Rupp, Mark Hampton, Don Chapell, Frank Folsom Smith, Ralph and William Zimmerman, and Edward J. “Tim”
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| ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE ||
above: The Seibert House, which no
longer exists, was built in 1952 by Sarasota School member Edward J. “Tim” Seibert himself. The intimate house sat comfortably on its site without pretense.
Seibert
right: The Arguedas House, built during the
mid-century modern era, was designed by Seibert Architects. The pool cage, which opens the house to the outdoors, feels like an extension of the interiors.
The Tetreault-Pirman House, designed by Seibert Architects, dates back to the mid-century period. This residence maximizes the indoor/outdoor relationship and is one of the firm’s projects that illustrates the trend toward less physical openness to the outdoors while still having visual connection to the exterior.
SEIBERT HOUSE PHOTO BY JOSEPH W. MOLITOR FOR STOLLER; ARGUEDAS HOUSE, ELLING EIDE CENTER & FINISH TOWER PHOTOS BY RYAN GAMMA; TETREAULT-PIRMAN HOUSE PHOTO BY GREGG WILSON; ARCHITECT PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARCHITECTS
right: Michael Epstein is one of the current principals of Seibert Architects, a firm founded in 1955 by Edward J. “Tim” Seibert, one of the original leaders of the Sarasota School of Architecture.
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A rendering of the LeBron Parc library building that nestles into a complex that includes a hedge maze and observation tower. Guy Peterson was the design architect and Damien Blumetti, who is the architect of record, provided the renderings of the dynamic white buildings that dot the landscape.
Designed by the Guy Peterson Office for Architecture, the Finish Tower in Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota is a multi-functional building with an upper deck where spectators can gather at the finish line for rowing competitions.
Seibert. Michael Epstein and Samuel Holladay are keeping Seibert’s name alive as the current leaders of Seibert Architects. Their link to one of the lauded originators gives them tremendous insight into the cultural mores they embraced. “Tim told me that the architecture responded to the post-war changes of the American psyche,” Epstein explains. “More people were abandoning the accepted norms. They were filled with optimism and embraced a spirit of freedom and adventure. It was a time in which anything seemed possible.” Epstein also describes how instrumental Twitchell was in cementing Rudolph’s legacy on Sarasota’s shores: “When Twitchell drew Rudolph here, he gave him a place to work and develop his ideas in the real world.” For many architects who have followed, there is a tactile aspect to how they were pulled into the wakes of the Sarasota School greats.
right: Guy Peterson won the AIA Florida Gold Medal in 2016, the highest award given to an individual architect in Florida. He is only the second architect from Sarasota to earn this recognition; the other was Paul Rudolph.
Guy Peterson, who grew up interacting with the architecture of the visionaries on a daily basis, calls himself a committed modernist. A generation-and-a-half behind Abbott, he is still being inspired by the buildings they constructed. “Victor Lundy has just turned 100,” he says. “As I’ve grown older and had more time to study his work, I’ve become more impressed with what he accomplished.” Regardless of the fact that technology has changed drastically since the Sarasota School pioneers practiced, Peterson says, “What is still relevant is how much they taught me about the importance of buildings being able to breathe, as they were designed before air-conditioning.”
right: The Elling Eide Center, designed by Guy Peterson Office for Architecture, is a research library set within a nature preserve overlooking Little Sarasota Bay. Peterson and his wife Cindy dedicated 13 years to this important project.
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| ARCHITECTURE | Operable windows, sliding doors, and screen porches on each side of the building bring cross-ventilation to the Phillippi Creek House in Sarasota by Damien Blumetti.
left: From Damien Blumetti, the Siesta Key Bay House
left: In addition to spearheading
maximizes water views without sacrificing privacy.
his own firm, Damien Blumetti is president of the AIA Florida Gulf Coast chapter and an adjunct professor at the University of Florida School of Architecture.
The generational club continues with Max Strang and Jerry Sparkman, who are just as fascinated with the founding principles. Strang was influenced the most by Gene Leedy. “I was surrounded by Gene’s work and lived in one of his houses,” he explains. “I interned for Leedy before going to grad school and my parents had a beach house on Casey Key next door to Gene—it was as if I couldn’t escape it!” His admiration since has only increased. “Because I grew up surrounded by the architecture, I thought it was normal; it wasn’t until later that I realized how extraordinary it was,” he explains. “It’s still extraordinary given the current climate considerations we’re dealing with, which makes it as relevant as ever.” Sparkman, who worked for Frank Folsom Smith, calls the Sarasota School “a teaching body of work,” which he illustrates by describing a recent experience. “A young architect from New Mexico came to interview with our firm,” he explains. “He didn’t know about the Sarasota School, so I took him on the Architecture Sarasota tour. After seeing the buildings, he said he was determined to work for us so he could learn more about them.” Damien Blumetti is a member of the newest generation to take up the cause. A Sarasota native, he came to appreciate the ideals of the Sarasota School by interning with and being a member of Guy Peterson’s architectural practice for a decade. “There is such a rich lineage of architecture in this community,” says Blumetti, “and I feel like a direct link in that, which is a big responsibility I gladly accept.” Peterson, who has watched the historical architecture realize greater interest since he founded his practice in the late 1980s, says, “The continuing legacy it inspires has made Sarasota a destination, just like mid-century modern architecture has done for Palm Springs.” Strang adds, “Here we are, 80-plus years later and the Sarasota School has been a testimony to the enduring principles it adopted—regional modernism is continuing as more of the best architects in Florida are adopting it today.”
SIESTA KEY BAY HOUSE PHOTOS BY RYAN GAMMA; PHILLIPPI CREEK HOUSE RENDERING & DAMIEN BLUMETTI PHOTO COURTESY OF DAMIEN BLUMETTI ARCHITECT; ROCK HOUSE PHOTO BY CLAUDIO MANZONI; MAX STRANG PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCHITECT
With the Siesta Key Bay House, the South American homeowners asked Blumetti to design a home with an honest and straightforward material palette that would respond to the site and its lush landscape, as well as give them unobstructed views of Robert’s Bay.
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The Rock House by Strang Design is one of the firm’s most well-known projects. The steel and stone assemblage has a structurally expressive roof that is a derivation of typologies from the Sarasota School of Architecture era. It’s monumental stone base, however, echoes the powerful forms of equatorial tropical architecture.
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Max Strang was named the 2022 Architect of the Year by the AIA. He is the founding principal of Strang Design, the AIA 2022 Firm of the Year.
10/2/23 11:49 AM
| ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE ||
DESIGN GUARDIANS THANKS TO THE DEDICATED WORK OF THE TEAM AT ARCHITECTURE SARASOTA, THE LEGACY OF THE SARASOTA SCHOOL STYLE IS IN GOOD HANDS TEXT SAXON HENRY
The depth of the robust programming at Architecture Sarasota, a nonprofit that “stewards the legacy of the Sarasota School of Architecture” is significant to say the least. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated individuals determined to keep the movement’s heritage alive, there are tours, lectures, and other stellar events year-round. Morris (Marty) Hylton, the president of the organization, describes a milestone in this respect. “Our Sarasota Mod Weekend [Nov. 2-5], which highlights the legacy of the Sarasota School, is 10 years old this year,” he says. “This fall, we will celebrate Victor Lundy.” New to the lineup is The Hub, which was launched in September. This forum promotes design innovation by engaging a network of
RIGHT: This view of the Revere Quality House shows the original building, which is a modest one-story house in keeping with the Sarasota School aesthetic.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARCHITECTURE SARASOTA
ABOVE: In 2007, the Guy Peterson Office for Architecture completed the first round of restoration on the Revere Quality House, originally designed in 1948 by Paul Rudolph and Ralph Twitchell.
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top-tier research and design institutions that will use Sarasota and Florida’s Gulf Coast region as a laboratory and a model for addressing critical issues, such as affordable housing, coastal resilience, and sustainable development. “We’ll have new programming in the spring called Modern by Design that will be spread across the month of March and will showcase contemporary design to highlight how the new generation of architects is continuing to innovate as they address these same issues,” notes Hylton. “We’re also going to be unveiling a new program called Moderns That Matter. Since April, we’ve been updating a countrywide cultural survey of the Sarasota School to catalog extant properties with historical significance. We’re asking people in Sarasota to submit their favorite modern buildings so we can develop at least 100 of those top choices for documentation and historical preservation.” While that segment of Moderns That Matter will concentrate on the buildings of the past, there will also be a component that will look to the future. “At the end of the project, we’ll have an exhibition highlighting the work of the newest generation to identify future landmarks,” explains Hylton. “When Rudolph designed the Cocoon House, there were no building codes; the youngest Sarasota School architects must address all types of regulations, especially coastal resilience, to which they have to adhere.” This makes
ABOVE: Ralph Twitchell and Paul
Rudolph’s 1950 Healy Guest House (now also called the Cocoon House) shows the climate-appropriate cypress jalousie walls. The Siesta Key structure remains a distinctive example of the Sarasota School of Architecture style and is on Architecture Sarasota’s Iconic Homes Tours.
it important to spread the word about how the legacy of the
ABOVE: A conceptual
drawing made by Rudolph in 1949 of the Healy Guest House, now known as the Cocoon House.
LEFT: The Cocoon House
gets its whimsical nickname from the technology used to build its catenary roof: a polymer spray Rudolph saw in use at the Brooklyn Navy Yard to moth-ball, or “cocoon,” warships returning from WWII.
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| ARCHITECTURE | left: A view of the interior of the Umbrella House,
designed by Paul Rudolph, one of the Sarasota School founders, for Philip Hiss. The residence is on Architecture Sarasota’s Iconic Homes Tours.
Sarasota
School
continues.
evening, when the reincarnation of the building debuted, Joe Farrell,
Hylton is remarkably qualified
who designed the original structure with William Rupp, told the crowd,
for understanding issues like
“We didn’t realize how important this building was because we were
historic
he
so quickly moving from one project to another. We were naïve; we
initiatives
didn’t think about publicity. It wasn’t until we entered the design for
manager for the World Monuments
the Progressive Architecture Awards in 1961 that we realized it was
Fund, an international non-profit with
special.” How brilliant is it that the Sarasota School of Architecture
served
preservation, as
strategic
as
a mission of saving endangered heritage
remains top of mind behind this façade. architecturesarasota.org
globally, from 2002 to 2007. He credits a remarkably passionate group of individuals behind the organization for the center’s current dynamic presence in Sarasota. “The Architecture Sarasota board is amazing,” he says. “Anne Essner, our board chair, has purchased the Umbrella House to preserve it. Working with people who are so passionate about preservation is a dream come true.” The Umbrella House was designed by Rudolph, one of the Sarasota School founders, for Philip Hiss, whom Hylton calls the impresario of the Sarasota School because he promoted the work of the founding architects who would have otherwise been quietly creating future landmarks along Sarasota’s shores. Architecture Sarasota’s mission is to stay attuned to how the architectural past informs the present, and proof that the organization practices what it preaches is the very building in which its headquarters are housed, the McCulloch Pavilion. During the pavilion’s opening
above: The dominant
feature of the Umbrella House is the shade structure, or “umbrella,” which gives the house its colloquial name.
of the Umbrella House, lost during a storm in the 1960s, was carefully restored in 2015, receiving multiple awards for preservation and rehabilitation from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and the AIA. Anne Essner, the board chair of Architecture Sarasota, recently purchased the residence to ensure its preservation.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARCHITECTURE SARASOTA
left: The original umbrella
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The shade structure that flows above the Umbrella House is an expansive awning designed to modulate the intense Florida sun and unite the pool and home complex under one cohesive structural gesture. The residence is on Architecture Sarasota’s Iconic Homes Tours.
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Moving Parts A WELL-RESPECTED ARCHITECT’S CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS ARE PUT TO THE TEST WHILE TACKLING THE REINVENTION OF A TROPICAL MODERNIST RESIDENCE ON LONGBOAT KEY
THE FINISHED RESULT MIGHT APPEAR largely quadratic, but when it came to reiventing a residence on Longboat Key, the team at Sarasota’s Sweet Sparkman Architecture and Interiors had to think entirely out of the box. The clients, a family from Europe, wanted to add significant new space to their 3,000-square-foot, circa-1970s home on 1.5 acres of land, yet the project came with caveats. “It’s right on the gulf,” says lead architect Jerry Sparkman, “and the old [part of the] house projects closer to the water than you’re allowed to build. The clients knew that if the whole structure came down, they could never build there again. We had to be very strategic with this renovation.”
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architecture JERRY SPARKMAN,
SWEET SPARKMAN ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS, SARASOTA, FL architecture consultant SHA SAFER HAJEK
ARCHITEKTS, PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC builder MICHAEL WALKER CONSTRUCTION,
SARASOTA, FL landscape architecture JOHN WHEELER
LANDSCAPE, SARASOTA, FL text RIKI ALTMAN-YEE photography RYAN GAMMA, SARASOTA, FL &
STEVE CARTANO, PARRISH, FL
left: Architect Jerry Sparkman says
the courtyard of this Longboat Key residence was designed to provide an inviting link from the existing architecture to the new addition. “It’s various elements: the light from above coming down to the water, and the landscape, just starting to kind of fill up as a way to make the undersides of these elevated houses feel like places you want to be and spend time in.”
below: While managing to preserve an existing 1970s house, the architects at Sweet Sparkman masterfully transformed the gulf-facing property with the addition of a second structure.
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The elevated pool area, made of 16-inch-thick concrete, serves double duty by connecting all the living spaces together and providing a spectacular environment for entertaining.
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“These ’70s houses are lifted up, and while they’re not quite as high as codecompliant structures are, they’re elevated enough so floodwaters don’t overtake them,” says architect Jerry Sparkman. “We made some improvements to make it more resilient to storms, but still kept its position with the great vantage points across the sand dunes.”
The owners wished to keep part of the former house close to a dune and ensure most of the existing Australian pines and native landscape remained in place. After two decades of working in Southwest Florida, Sparkman knew what was ahead. He would also have to contend with issues related to sea level rise and climate change, as well as the red tape that comes with state regulations and zoning laws. But he charged forward. The solution, Sparkman decided, was to improve the lower, existing house and build a new section that would overlook it. “These ’70s houses are lifted up, and while they’re not quite as high as code-compliant structures are, they’re elevated enough so floodwaters don’t overtake them,” says the architect. “We made some improvements to make it more resilient to storms, but still kept its position with the great vantage points across the sand dunes.”
above: A contrast to the oak floors found throughout the
main level, teak stairs on a concrete carriage lead up to the residence’s new addition. right: “I remember thinking that the pool could act like a light fixture and bring light down to the ground level between the old and the new structures,” says Sparkman. To accomplish this, two-inch-thick acrylic panels were installed on the bottom and side of the pool, resulting in a breathtaking main entrance.
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Over the course of the design phase, the homeowners connected Sparkman with an architect in the Czech Republic who had worked for them before and whose input they wanted. With the help of a translator, the two professionals and the clients discussed the site’s design issues while Sparkman shared the specifics of building on Florida’s unique coastal terrain. Once the proper permitting was in place, the builders removed about one-third of the existing space. Eventually they added another 3,200 square feet, in part from the addition of the second structure. As laws prevented the buildings from being joined, Sparkman developed a structural connection, incorporating a pool and decking. This new green rooftop has maximized the views straight to the gulf. Now, all members of the family can simply walk across their living room, onto the deck, and down some stairs to get their toes in the sand. “I had breakfast with the homeowners after it was all done and sat down on the porch and got the sense of what they experience,” says Sparkman. “I could tell how happy they were. No one knew what it would take to transform the old home, but what was gratifying is that everyone on the team realized that we had to be patient. We took our time and we did it properly.”
above: A flat green rooftop replaced the previous gable roof, ensuring the homeowners
would have a seamless view to the water. left: From the beach, the home seems to emerge from the foliage surrounding it. The
homeowners wanted it to meld with the natural landscape as much as possible. “They love the seclusion on this part of Longboat Key,” says Sparkman. “This is their own little piece of the island.”
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Endless Holiday ON LONGBOAT KEY, A SERENE DESIGN AESTHETIC GRANTS A NORTHERN FAMILY A FOREVER-SUMMER RETREAT ON THE WATER
interior design MEG CARSON &
CHLOE HARLAN, EMCY INTERIOR DESIGN, SARASOTA, FL builder PERRONE CONSTRUCTION, SARASOTA, FL text JEANNE DE LATHOUDER photography LAURA HENRY, SARASOTA, FL
left: A second-story foyer establishes
the airy vibe of a waterfront residence in the heart of Longboat Key. Every landing spot throughout the home creates a special moment and complements the natural setting with a soft, organic aesthetic. Here, the curvy lines of two Palecek mirrors and an orb-base lamp from Blu Home bring graceful counterbalance to a linear console table.
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Smooth edges echoed throughout imbue the residence with a peaceful fluidity and pleasing sense of continuity. Bathed in an all-white palette, the dining area pays homage to curvaceous shapes with RH’s round marble table paired with a curved-edge buffet and an oversized circular mirror. The CB2 white chandelier adds a sculptural touch.
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The great room emanates casual, livable beauty with a pair of oversized Four Hands cocktail tables that ground the seating area shaped by a generous RH sofa. A sleek custom built-in works double duty to house the TV and LED-lit display nooks while hiding structural columns that couldn’t be removed.
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THE SERENE DRIVE INTO LONGBOAT KEY sets the tone for the tropical splendor that unfolds on this pristine offshore barrier island enclosing the western boundary of Sarasota Bay. Slow traffic, lined palm trees, waterfront golf courses, white-sand beaches, and euphoric glimpses of the Gulf of Mexico have shaped this slice of Florida into a world-renowned resort community that offers an elite and elegant lifestyle. The scenery is a living painting of one of the most idyllic places on Earth for many vacationers who flock here seasonally. And for the island’s privileged residents, Longboat Key is a paradise they call home. Such was the sentiment for a couple who chose to make this destination their escape to a never-ending summer. “For these clients, whose main residence is up north, the scenery of their new vacation home could not have been painted any better,” says Chloe Harlan of Emcy Interior Design in Sarasota, who spearheaded the project with fellow designer Meg Carson. “The already-built home came to us in its bare bones with builder-grade finishes begging for a sense of curation. We brought it to life using layers of neutral textures, dramatic decorative lighting, and custom built-ins.”
right: An expansive window wall invites natural light and scenic views into the great room, providing a seamless connection to the outdoor landscape. The elegant arches of a white sofa table from Four Hands lend architectural interest, along with an ebony side table from Blu Home.
below: The fluid lines of a sink basin emulating a seashell bring an organic vibe to the powder room. Sconces from Arteriors in a brushed-gold finish complement a mirror that amplifies a contemporary wallcovering by Kelly Wearstler.
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Cleverly named Channelside for its private waterfront location, the property’s coastal environment drove the inspiration for the interior décor. With a generous flow of natural light, the home focuses on complementing the exterior elements of the Florida landscape through sea-inspired materials and furnishings. “Organic, soft, and elevated, this home will remain timeless for its many years of family vacationing,” adds Harlan. Built as a spec house by Perrone Construction, the property was purchased by the owners upon completion. Harlan specified finishes in addition to builder-provided materials and managed a team of tradespeople to implement custom built-ins in the stairwell, great room, and study. Bespoke ceiling embellishments and signature wallpaper treatments create visual interest throughout, and special lighting features lend warmth and texture to every room. A high-contrast neutral color palette with tone-on-tone accents ensures a soft and cozy aesthetic.
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The kitchen’s white cabinetry and quartz countertops proffer a clean aesthetic, contrasting the gray porcelain tile floors. Palecek pendants and counter stools from RH complement the neutral palette.
Dressed in beach-inspired natural hues, the family room embodies the home’s calming palette. A cocktail table paired with ottomans from Four Hands complements the lavish scale of a West Elm sofa. An Arteriors chandelier and Palecek wall art create a sculptural touch.
“Although the home has a very open floor plan, it was important to make each landing spot have its own special moment,” notes Harlan. “Upon entry, guests are greeted by a second-story foyer and stairwell outfitted with a pair of stunning beaded chandeliers. The space guides you into the great room, which we completely transformed with a custom built-in feature wall and LED-lit display nooks.” Harlan achieved a casually livable yet elegant feel with performance fabrics from Perennials applied to upholstered seating pieces from RH. Two oversized coffee tables ground the great room and allow various seating options for entertaining. “This style of ‘livable beauty’ became a theme as we jumped from room to room,” says Harlan. “Performance fabrics also appear on the kitchen counter stools and dining room chairs to create a cohesive flow.” An all-white palette in the kitchen and dining area generates a clean, minimalist aesthetic that also provides a high-impact contrast to the gray porcelain tile floors. Sculptural statement lighting
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Wrapped in subtly striped Phillip Jeffries wallpaper and crowned with a textured Palecek chandelier, the primary bedroom creates a luxurious private sanctuary for the owners. A sumptuous RH bed and headboard anchor the room, and a comfy seating nook backdropped by ethereal white sheers from Emcy Interior Design provides a relaxing oasis.
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left: Strategically positioned in front of the
window, an elegant soaking tub in the primary bathroom offers tranquil views of the tropical landscape outside. Paved in white marble flooring, the luxurious spa-like space includes a spacious walk-in shower with a built-in storage cubicle.
below: Adorned with pale blue accents, the guest room palette draws inspiration from its glorious water views outside. The soft blue of a plush Crate & Barrel bench connects visually to the bed’s accent pillows from Ryan Studio. A textured area rug from Loloi anchors a well-dressed bed and headboard from Four Hands.
creates bold accents proportionate to the grand scale of the spaces and their soaring ceiling heights. Wide-plank wood floors give the family room a rustic yet refined feel, along with generous seating, a plush area rug, and three-dimensional wall art. The primary suite offers a serene escape all its own—a space Harlan admits she could move right into and never leave. Wrapped in pin-striped wallpaper from Phillip Jeffries, the bedroom is dressed from the floor up to a dramatic vaulted ceiling that highlights an eye-catching Palecek chandelier sporting a textured scalelike skin. “A sitting nook engulfed in ethereal white sheers whisks you away from reality, inviting dream-like relaxation, and that’s the precise feeling we wanted to project in this room,” says Harlan. “As the sun sets, the sheers can easily pull to the side for a peek at the boats on the water channel and the soothing poolscape surrounded by elegant lounge furniture.” The owners love fleeing to their new forever-summer home multiple times throughout the year, hosting special family gatherings and an endless parade of friends who gladly come to experience everything Longboat Key has to offer. “The home gets rave reviews every time someone new visits,” says Harlan. “As one of the designers, that’s the best endorsement you can get.”
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SOURCES ENTRY Console – Palecek, High Point, NC Lamp – Blu Home, Sarasota, FL Mirrors – Palecek, High Point, NC DINING AREA Round table and chairs – RH, rh.com Buffet and mirror– RH, rh.com Chandelier – CB2, cb2.com LIVING ROOM Sofa – RH, rh.com Cocktail table – Four Hands, High Point, NC
Sofa back table – Four Hands, High Point, NC Side table – Blu Home, Sarasota, FL POWDER ROOM Sink – Voigt Brothers Construction, Sarasota, FL Sconce – Arteriors, High Point, NC Wallcovering – Kelly Wearstler, kellywearstler.com KITCHEN Stools – RH, rh.com Lighting – Palecek, High Point, NC FAMILY ROOM Sofa – West Elm, westelm.com Cocktail table – Four Hands, High Point, NC
Ottomans – Four Hands, High Point, NC Wall art – Palecek, High Point, NC Chandelier – Arteriors, High Point, NC Area rug – Loloi, High Point, NC PRIMARY BEDROOM Bed and headboard – RH, rh.com Pillows – Ryan Studio, ryanstudio.com Night tables – Made Goods, High Point, NC Lamps – Regina Andrew, High Point, NC Bench – Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, mgbwhome.com Swivel chairs and table – Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, mgbwhome.com
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left: A covered dining and seating area captures splendid views of the pool
and the dense outlying tropical foliage. A rustic gray Crate & Barrel dining table paired with sleek white chairs blends with deep-seated cushioned chairs from RH in the adjacent conversation area.
Chandelier – Palecek, High Point, NC Drapery fabric – Emcy Interior Design, Sarasota, FL Area rug – Loloi, High Point, NC PRIMARY BATHROOM Tub and shower – Perrone Construction, Sarasota, FL Wall and flooring – Perrone Construction, Sarasota, FL GUEST BEDROOM Bed and headboard – Four Hands, High Point, NC Pillows – Ryan Studio, ryanstudio.com Night table – West Elm, westelm.com
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Lamp – Crate & Barrel, Sarasota, FL Bench – Crate & Barrel, Sarasota, FL Area rug – Loloi, High Point, NC BACK EXTERIOR Chairs and lounges – Crate & Barrel, Sarasota, FL Dining table and chairs – Crate & Barrel, Sarasota, FL Pool – Perrone Construction, Sarasota, FL THROUGHOUT Wall covering fabricated by Sarasota Paper Hanger, Sarasota, FL Home furnishings – Blu Home, Sarasota, FL
above: Beyond the palm trees, boats on the
water channel can be glimpsed from the lavish pool patio. Lounge chairs from Crate & Barrel offer optimal sunbathing spots for family and guests, creating a luxurious resort-style ambiance for alfresco entertaining.
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KARMIC CONNECTION A MIXTURE OF CIRCUMSTANCE AND FATE DRAWS AN ATLANTA DESIGNER TO ANNA MARIA ISLAND, THE IDEAL SPOT FOR A CUSTOM BEACH GETAWAY FOR HER AND HER FAMILY
Nestled on the tip of Anna Maria Island, this modern beach residence designed by architect David Wash emanates a West Indies vibe with its crisp white trellises, spandrels, and breezy Bahama shutters. A giant white planter draping with bougainvillea shapes the home’s entrance.
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interior design LAURA FREEMAN, MERITS DESIGN GROUP, ATLANTA, GA architecture DAVID WASH, DAVID WASH ARCHITECT, BRADENTON, FL text JEANNE DE LATHOUDER photography DAVID CANNON, MONROE, GA
above: Designed with impeccable sightlines and various pockets for entertaining
and seating options, the pool area embodies a luxury-resort aesthetic. A pair of hanging pod chairs from CB2 offers a blissful cocooning experience.
“LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION” were the first words interior designer Laura Freeman expressed when describing the inherent charm of her family’s new vacation spot on Anna Maria Island. Having just sold their Atlanta home of 17 years, the designer and her husband Render began looking for the ideal place to build a getaway retreat. Their must-have list included easy access to a beach where they could walk barefoot for miles, a place to ride bikes safely, a nearby major airport for business travel and visiting guests, and lots of terrific restaurants and cultural offerings. “Anna Maria’s proximity to Sarasota is absolutely perfect,” says Freeman, founder and principal of Merits Design Group, an awardwinning interior architecture and design firm based in Atlanta. “We can spend quiet time on the tip of the island, and when we feel like
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left: Outfitted in shiplap and reclaimed woods, the family room emits a casual California beach feel. Open bookcases backed with Phillip Jeffries grass-cloth wallpaper flank the TV wall. Mitered pieces of reclaimed wood compose the ceiling beam as well as the cap for a built-in banquette.
right: A rustic reproduction trellis table topped with a round mirror defines the long foyer where a showpiece lighting fixture the family named the Death Star hangs overhead. Homeowner and interior designer Laura Freeman procured the Teddy & Wool wall hanging.
bit more bustle, we can head to downtown Sarasota for shopping, restaurants, art exhibits, and theater.” During the home search, Freeman was also working as an art director for interior projects at Walt Disney World. She would strap her beach cruiser to the back of her car and spend weekends in coastal towns that were on the couple’s list. “Anna Maria was a no-brainer,” she adds. “It has a quaint small-town feel with old-school architecture, and there are no cookiecutter franchises and no gated communities.” Plus, there were also serendipitous signs guiding the family to land there. Freeman’s father played minor league baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Pirates’ spring training camp is now in the area. The Freemans’ new home sits around the block from the homes of famous ball players like Eddie Mathews and Warren Spahn, who built a group of cottages there in the 1950s and baptized them with names such as Catcher’s Mitt and The Diamond. “We called my grandfather ‘Poppo,’ and there is a Poppo’s Taqueria,” says Freeman. “The karma was strong, and it felt like fate had brought us here—we loved it immediately.”
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After discovering an overgrown lot, the couple’s builder, Dan Gagne, flew his drone above the property, showing them potential views from a main second floor, third floor, and proposed roof deck. “We saw gorgeous views of the Gulf and vistas of the Skyline Bridge to St. Pete,” Freeman notes. “Those drone shots sealed the deal.” Before breaking ground on their 3,000-square-foot home, the couple consulted with David Wash, an area architect who came highly recommended by Gagne. Armed with an inspiration photo deck, they mapped out their vision—a place where family, friends, and young kids could gather to cook and eat amazing food, socialize, play games, enjoy peaceful spaces, and take in the views.
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An abundance of specialty storage keeps kitchen countertops clutter-free. Hidden drawers stow cooking utensils, a microwave, and other essentials. Palecek counter stools and Surya rugs bring textural contrast to glossy surfaces.
above right: Deeply contoured, precision-cut Porcelanosa
tiles appear seamless behind the coffee and wine bar shelves. Built-in cubicles stow wine bottles and refrigerator drawers store anything that needs to be chilled. right: Bahama shutters in this outdoor nook prevent glare
from the morning and midday sun while allowing sea breezes and beautifully filtered natural light. The owners relocated the table from their Atlanta home’s screened porch. The base was rescued from an old Tennessee factory, and the vendor added a reclaimed-wood surface.
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above: Called “the lounge” by the homeowners, this cozy banquette is a preferred spot for morning breakfast and laptop
work. Adjacent to a built-in desk area, a sleek oval table from Room & Board complements the angular seating proportions. A stunning shell vase and a montage of artwork, including Picasso prints, infuse colorful personality into the corner.
left: Family and guests
gravitate to this breezy alfresco family room to enjoy morning coffee. Anchored by a Dash & Albert rug, modern RH furnishings blend effortlessly with antique accent tables.
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The music and movie room doubled as an office for the designer’s husband during the pandemic. A custom storage unit houses the family’s vinyl record collection, and acoustic drywall covered with Winfield Thybony grasscloth wallpaper buffers the noise. The flooring features Polynesian patterned planks made from recycled materials.
“After discussions with Laura and Render, it became clear that taking advantage of the outdoor setting and maximizing the perception of space would be top priorities,” says Wash, who heads up his own firm. “While the upper-level primary suite and roof deck enjoys the beach view, it was imperative to organize the ground and main levels around a private central courtyard to create an internal space secure from outside influences.” “David’s modular approach was perfect and knocked our vision out of the park,” says Freeman. “He and I worked really well together, and I thought he captured the exterior style of modern-Californiameets-West-Indies that we were going for very well. Once the exterior shell was settled, I got to work on the interior spaces.” Freeman’s leading source of inspiration celebrates the natural landscape—the colors of the dunes and driftwood, the incredible hues of the Gulf of Mexico, the sunsets, and the wildlife of coastal birds, shells, and turtles. Additional inspiration came from a family trip to Greece in 2018, where she fell in love with the open-air concept of living, white materials like linen and stucco, and layers of texture.
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above: The bunk room includes custom ladders with spliced
cotton rope detailing. Carpet tiles from FLOR offered the ideal solution for the room’s irregular shape and layout.
below: Freeman developed a passion for African art after traveling to Kenya. Hence, a trio of African shields she foraged from an Atlanta antiques market backdrops an armchair tucked into a cozy corner of the primary bedroom.
effort between Laura and me—is probably the most satisfying aspect of this design and one that could only be achieved with the client’s openness to alternative ideas.” A graphic designer with a master’s degree in interior architecture and design, Freeman is well-versed in building custom architectural elements and furniture. Because space was tight, she designed all the built-in components, including a primary bathroom vanity, floating nightstands, a laundry room, a kitchen banquette and desk/mini home office area, the family room’s TV wall, the kitchen layout and pantry, a coffee/wine bar, a guest bunk room, an outdoor kitchen, and a pizzaoven station. An advocate of sustainable design, she deliberately chose salvaged pieces, reclaimed woods, and materials that were functionally and aesthetically eco-friendly. Durable, easy-to-clean organic linens, washable slipcovers, jute rugs, and performance fabrics were priorities, as was the hard-wearing and sustainable hickory engineered flooring—an essential for wet and sandy feet. “My COVID silver lining was that I was furloughed and then laid off from Disney, which coincided exactly with the time we broke ground on our home,” she adds. “It allowed me to take a super deep dive into all the details, and, as divine intervention would have it, I was called back to Disney two months before we moved in. What incredible timing—we feel so fortunate to have this wonderful home to share with the people we love.”
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Private and peaceful, the primary bedroom includes a desk space where Freeman can work remotely. Caned furniture from Pottery Barn melds with the island aesthetic and the casual allure of a platform bed by RH. The couple’s travel mementos from Amsterdam, Greece, and Kenya accent the open bookcase.
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With its stellar sightlines, the multi-faceted outdoor area emanates a welcoming vibe. The wood-fired pizza-oven station accommodates frequent family nights around the pool and hot tub.
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SOURCES FOYER Console table – Vintage, Scott Antique Market, Atlanta, GA Round mirror – Kelly Clarkson Home, wayfair.com Pendant lighting – Graypants, graypants.com Area rug – Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com FAMILY ROOM Sofa – Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com Club chair – Acquisitions, Atlanta, GA Cocktail table – RH, Atlanta, GA Side tables – Vintage, Scott Antique Market, Atlanta, GA Table lamps – Palecek, ADAC, Atlanta, GA Area rug – Serena & Lily, Atlanta, GA KITCHEN Cabinetry and island designed by Merits Design Group, Atlanta, GA, and fabricated by Progressive Cabinetry, Bradenton, FL Pendant lighting – Rejuvenation, rejuvenation.com Stools – Palecek, ADAC, Atlanta, GA OUTDOOR NOOK Table – Vintage, Scott Antique Market, Atlanta, GA Stools – Kathy Kuo Home, kathykuohome.com Lighting – Hinkley Lighting, hinkleylightinglights.com LOUNGE Banquette designed by Merits Design Group, Atlanta, GA, and fabricated by Sundance Fine Carpentry, Bradenton, FL Table – Room & Board, Atlanta, GA ALFRESCO FAMILY ROOM Seating and cocktail table – RH, Atlanta, GA MUSIC AND MOVIE ROOM Sofa – RH, Atlanta, GA
Ottoman – Crate & Barrel, Atlanta, GA Side table – Merits Design Group, Atlanta, GA Wallcovering – Winfield Thybony, Kravet Showroom, ADAC, Atlanta, GA Area rug – Dash & Albert, Codarus, Atlanta, GA BUNK ROOM Bunk beds designed by Merits Design Group, Atlanta, GA, and fabricated by Sundance Fine Carpentry, Bradenton, FL Area rug – FLOR, flor.com PRIMARY BEDROOM Bed – RH, Atlanta, GA Club chair – Acquisitions, Atlanta, GA Wicker side table – Vintage, Scott Antique Market, Atlanta, GA Desk and chair – Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com Area rug – Serena & Lily, Atlanta, GA OUTDOOR DINING Table and chairs – RH, Atlanta, GA Pizza-oven station designed by Merits Design Group, Atlanta, GA, and fabricated by Californo, californo.co THROUGHOUT Builder – Gagne Construction, Anna Maria Island, FL Landscape architecture – Jeff Gilchrist Landscaping, Bradenton, FL Landscape lighting – Bright Lights Landscape Lighting, Sarasota, FL Exterior sconces – Hinkley Lighting, hinkleylightinglights.com Shutters – Gulf Coast Shutter Co., Bradenton, FL Pool and jacuzzi – Tom Sanger Pools, Bradenton, FL
ABOVE: A drone shot reveals a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the
property’s backyard, which centers around a courtyard pool and multiple outdoor spaces.
Simply styled, the outdoor kitchen and dining space take design cues from the couple’s trip to Greece. Concrete countertops and smooth white stucco make perfect partners for the ipe cabinets.
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Personal Statement A DESIGNER LEANS INTO CLASSIC, SOPHISTICATED STYLING TO TELL THE STORY OF HER FAMILY HOME IN SARASOTA
interior design TRACEE MURPHY, TRADE MARK INTERIORS, SARASOTA, FL text MALLORY JACOBSON photography AMY LAMB, NASHVILLE, TN
above: Framed by lush, verdant foliage, designer Tracee
Murphy’s Sarasota residence sits on one acre of land. right: A Phillip Jeffries wallcovering resembling a mural provides the backdrop for the dining room, where a table by Chaddock is accompanied by custom-designed chairs by Century Furniture accented with Samuel & Sons trim.
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The sunken living room is host to a cozy fireplace and plenty of seating for family and friends to gather. Coffee table books and ephemera from Murphy’s travels are scattered atop a set of cocktail tables by Bernhardt.
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“This is a primary residence for my husband and me, as well as our youngest son,” says designer Tracee Murphy. “But between our other four children, who live in different cities but visit often, it always feels like a full house.” right: A rotating gallery wall of family photographs infuses the living room with personality.
below: A vintage table and sculpture from Murphy’s collection of antiques create an intriguing vignette in the foyer.
INTERIOR DECORATING WASN’T ALWAYS on Tracee Murphy’s radar. In fact, as she tells it, the Sarasota-based designer didn’t realize her interest in the field until after she had graduated from college with a degree in psychology and moved into her first home. “I put mauve carpet in the living room and went over the top with florals and trim,” recalls Murphy. “Everyone thought I was crazy, but I was actually just a designer waiting to be born.” Soon, Murphy realized how her university studies could help her capture the feelings of different spaces, and today, she continues to employ this signature approach when orchestrating the layout and aesthetic of her residential projects. “Most people don’t realize that color placement alone can change how you react when you enter a room,” she says. While understanding the individual styles that appeal to each of her clients is Murphy’s specialty, her most recent commission was even more personal—it was her own home, after all. The 6,200-square-foot residence has five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and two half bathrooms, and was envisioned with
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above: Murphy herself designed the cabinetry and
island in the kitchen, which were fabricated by Campbell Cabinetry Designs in Sarasota. The sconces on the range wall are by Urban Electric.
Murphy’s large family in mind. “This is a primary residence for my husband and me, as well as our youngest son,” says the designer. “But between our other four children, who live in different cities but visit often, it always feels like a full house.” Although challenging, Murphy said taking on the California-style ranch allowed her to incorporate all her favorite elements and truly lean into her own distinctive techniques. What came to fruition is, as Murphy puts it, “classic styling with a relaxed yet sophisticated touch.” In terms of palette, that means a mélange of neutral tones of beige, gray, green, terra-cotta, and various shades of warm white. Clearly, one of the centerpieces of the home is the dining room. Here, what appears to be a custom mural is actually a Japanese-inspired wallcovering by Phillip Jeffries. “It’s one of the first things that meets the eye when you enter the front door, so I wanted it to make a statement,” says Murphy. “The blossoms and twisted branches are printed on grass-cloth, which gives the background texture for even more depth in the room.” Another focal point is the fireplace, which is original to the home. Murphy initially debated whether to remove this feature, but ultimately decided to highlight it, as “the variation in organic colors and gorgeous veining give the main living space so much personality.” Displayed above the fireplace is Sarasota painter Larry Forgard’s left: The punchy powder room features a palm leaf wallcovering by Schumacher and a shell mirror by
Arteriors, both of which nod to tropical sentiments.
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Open shelving in the kitchen offers a spot for Murphy’s cookbooks, while a zellige tile backsplash adds a touch of glamour.
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“The guiding principle that drove the design of this house was the idea of loved ones,” says Murphy. “I wanted a true family home with a classic and sophisticated aesthetic, and that’s what was achieved.”
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Flower Robe, which was selected for its dramatic, earthy colorways and a vibe that lends itself to the motif found in the dining room wallcovering. Opposite the fireplace is a gallery wall of family photographs, which are swapped out on a regular basis. “The reason for this house is family,” she says. “Displaying pictures of our loved ones is what makes a home come alive.” The heart of the home, the kitchen, is presented as a seamless blend of both modern and traditional design styles. As she enjoys both cooking and entertaining frequently, Murphy opted for open shelving for easy access to dishes and serving pieces. Two sconces above the range add a polished touch to the vignette, while serving their lighting purpose. Tying everything together, the backsplash is made up of large-format porcelain tile that was book-matched for symmetry, and above the open shelving, Moroccaninspired zellige tiles that shimmer in the natural light. While Murphy knew that she wanted the primary bedroom to evoke tranquility and elegance, she was even more eager to focus on the primary bathroom. “I’ve loved checkerboard flooring since the beginning of my career and this was actually my first time executing it,” she says. “I wanted a truly authentic old-world sensation and chose antiqued marble and limestone, along with a heated flooring system for extra luxury.” To infuse the space with further drama, Murphy installed black-frame glass shower doors that nearly stretch to the ceiling, along with a translucent chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting. “The guiding principle that drove the design of this house was the idea of loved ones,” says Murphy. “I wanted a true family home with a classic and sophisticated aesthetic, and that’s what was achieved.”
above: Before she even purchased the home, Murphy knew she wanted to install
checkerboard floors in the primary bathroom. She worked with Tile Market of Sarasota to source the ideal combination of marble and limestone.
left: An Arteriors chandelier illuminates the neutral-hued primary
bedroom, which offers a tranquil view of the pool. right: “The height of the shower’s glass doors was meant to enhance the elevated look,” says Murphy, who collaborated with Rusty Tile & Marble in Sarasota on the design.
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“It really feels like a private resort with room for lots of entertaining,” says Murphy of this covered patio area. “We have many family gatherings, pool parties, and late-night cocktails around the pool. It’s a dream come true.”
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Vintage lounge chairs topped with turquoise cushions line the pool. An umbrella from Frontgate provides a canopy for shade.
SOURCES DINING ROOM Table – Chaddock, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Chairs – Century, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Trim – Samuel & Sons, samuelandsons.com Chandelier – Palecek, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Wallcovering – Phillip Jeffries, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Drapery – Kravet, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL LIVING ROOM White sofas – Sherrill Furniture, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Club chairs – Hickory Chair, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Ottomans – Hickory Chair, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Cocktail tables – Bernhardt, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Chandeliers – Currey & Company, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Artwork – Larry Forgard, State of the Arts Gallery, Sarasota, FL ENTRY Round table – Vintage, Homeowners’ collection Ottoman – Bernhardt, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL
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Sculpture on stand – Vintage, Homeowners’ collection KITCHEN Cabinetry designed by Tracee Murphy, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Campbell Cabinetry Designs, Sarasota, FL Hood – Campbell Cabinetry Design, Sarasota, FL Backsplash – SRQ Modern, Bradenton, FL Back splash lighting – Urban Electric, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Island designed by Tracee Murphy, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Campbell Cabinetry Designs, Sarasota, FL Island chairs – Palecek, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Island lighting - Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Artwork – Denise Sedor, Devon, PA POWDER ROOM Sink – Signature Hardware, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Mirror – Arteriors, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Wallcovering – Schumacher, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL PRIMARY BEDROOM Bed and headboard – Vintage, Homeowners’ collection Bedside chests – Noir, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Club chairs – Vintage, Homeowners’ collection Chandelier – Arteriors, Trade Mark Interiors,
Sarasota, FL B/W artwork – Denise Sedor, Devon, PA PRIMARY BATHROOM Shower designed by Tracee Murphy, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Rusty’s Tile, Sarasota, FL Tub – Wyndham Collection, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Drink table – Noir, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Chandelier – Hudson Valley Lighting, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Flooring – Tile Market, Sarasota, FL BACK EXTERIOR Seating – Ebel, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Cocktail table – Hickory Chair, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Round dining table – Four Hands, Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL Chairs – Klaussner, International Design Source, Sarasota, FL Lounges and tables – Vintage, Homeowners’ collection Umbrella – Frontgate, frontgate.com THROUGHOUT Builder – Vertical Design + Build, Sarasota, FL Landscape architect – Critter Ridge Landscaping, Sarasota, FL
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American Coastal A VACATION BEACH HOUSE IN SIESTA KEY KEEPS THE FOCUS ON BAREFOOT ELEGANCE
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The large sofa in the living room was customized to ensure it could accommodate all members of the family at once. The framed antique American flag is part of a collection.
interior design KELLY KAISER-PUTNAM,
ORANGE MOON INTERIORS, SARASOTA, FL text ANN KAISER photography JIMMY WHITE, BRADENTON, FL
below: The design team used black cable wire in lieu of balustrades on the stairs to keep the openness of the home intact.
DESIGNER KELLY KAISER-PUTNAM WAS THE FIRST PERSON a New Hampshire businessman called soon after acquiring the ideal beach house in Siesta Key. While the prime gulfside location of the 5,200-square-foot dwelling promised happy days under the sun for the homebuyer and his two teenage kids, the structure itself was in dire need of space planning and personality. Kaiser-Putnam’s approach was to deal with function and layout matters first before turning up the vacation vibes with a cream and white palette that serves as a backdrop to natural textures and bold moments of pattern and color.
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“The house has soul now,” says designer Kelly Kaiser-Putnam. “It’s a place for the family to make memories and history of their own.”
left: A red-and-blue wallpaper from
Spoonflower provides just the right amount of color in the powder room.
below: A Schumacher print on a window valance proved to be the ideal way to inject color and pattern into the breakfast nook.
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The vintage surfboard, antique oars, porthole window, and white wicker furniture in this loft area continue the nautical theme of the beach house.
On the first floor, the designer opened up the kitchen to enhance its connection to the dining area, a breakfast nook with a window valance covered with Schumacher’s Citrus Garden fabric. “It’s a vibrant print that livens up what is mostly a clean, white space,” says Kaiser-Putnam. “That motif invites joy into the room.” As far as surfaces go, the design team relied on wallcoverings for eye-catching statements. In the powder room, it’s red and blue stripes. In the primary bedroom, it’s a mural of blue palm leaves behind the bed. “Large-scale wallpaper applications transport you,” the designer says. “They make you feel like you are walking into a story.” In the long, narrow living room, the design story is one of comfort, with an oversized sectional that was custom-made to fit all members of the family at once. The ornamentation here is minimal: roundish wicker side tables by Coastal Living introduce organic sentiments at ground level, while a framed antique Old Glory hangs above the sofa. The rest of the details—from the shiplap boards that go up to the vaulted ceiling to the Currey & Company lamps—nod to the home’s intended coastal vibe and seaside location. “The house has soul now,” says Kaiser-Putnam “It’s a place for the family to make memories and history of their own.”
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above: Nautical red, white, and blue details in a guest bedroom
nod to the home’s beach address. below: A black-and-white palette denotes casual elegance in the primary bathroom.
right: In the primary bedroom, a wicker-frame bed and a bold palm tree mural solidify the coastal vibe of the interior design. The lanai balcony easily accommodates six.
SOURCES LIVING ROOM Sofa – Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Wicker accent tables – Coastal Living, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Side table – Uttermost, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Lamp – Currey & Company, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL BREAKFAST AREA Banquette designed by Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Pileggi Custom Homes, Venice, FL Table and chairs – Coastal Living, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Chandelier – Currey & Company, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL POWDER ROOM Cabinetry – Coastal Cabinetry, Venice, FL Ceiling light – Franklin Lighting, Sarasota, FL Lamp – Wildwood Home, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Wallcovering – Spoonflower, spoonflower.com LOFT SEATING AREA Wicker chairs and round table – Coastal Living, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Floor lamp – Currey & Company, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Area rug – Anji Mountain, anjimountain.com
GUEST BEDROOM Bed and night tables – Universal Furniture, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Lamps – Currey & Company, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Wallcovering designed by Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Brush by Design, Bradenton, FL PRIMARY BATHROOM Cabinetry – Coastal Cabinetry, Venice, FL Round mirror – Surya, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Sconces – Currey & Company, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL PRIMARY BEDROOM Wicker bed and night tables – Universal Furniture, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Lamps – Currey & Company, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Mirror – Uttermost, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Wallcovering – Etsy, etsy.com Area rug – Surya, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL THROUGHOUT Builder – Pileggi Custom Homes, Venice, FL Upholstery and window treatments – Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL Bedding – Eastern Accents, Orange Moon Interiors, Sarasota, FL
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| BEST OF SHOW |
design dispatch A ROUNDUP OF STANDOUT FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES FROM THE SPRING 2023 EDITION OF HIGH POINT MARKET
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TEXT CHRISTOPHER DAY
An instant eye catcher, the Safari Spot table by NGALA TRADING expands on the brand’s depictions of the flora and fauna native to southern Africa. ngalatrading.com
The Bok dining table and chairs by designer Alain van Havre for ETHNICRAFT combine sculptural elegance with top-quality craftsmanship. ethnicraft.com
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Made of industrial steel, the toteminspired Letty bookcase by NOIR FURNITURE is as much a sculptural statement as it is practical shelving. noirfurniturela.com
Sculpted from black finished ceramic, the Abyssus vases by CYAN DESIGN overflow with curves meant to recall currents on the high seas. cyan.design ▲ 118 FLORIDA DESIGN’S SARASOTA EDITION 1-1
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The botanical vibe of the River Reed Basin chandelier by REGINA ANDREW brings the garden’s allure inside. reginaandrew.com
Referencing an antique central pedestal table, the JJ table by JULIAN CHICHESTER is made au courant when paired with the brand’s elegant Casper chairs. julianchichester.com
The Fane armchair by UULTIS is crafted with solid wood and steel staples to ensure lasting strength and timeless style. uultis.com ▲ ▲
The Brass Tacks chest by CARACOLE features an understated green tone and mixed metals that bring subtle drama to any space. caracole.com
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All five petals on the Midnight Bloom mirror by JOHN-RICHARD are made of wood in a striated black finish. johnrichard.com
9/27/23 3:35 PM
| COVET |
Details Upgrade WHEN IT COMES TO SMALL FEATURES THAT CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE, DESIGNER ANGELA RODRIGUEZ RELIES ON MODERN MATTER’S PRECIOUS HARDWARE TEXT CHRISTOPHER DAY
THE DESIGNER: With studios in Sarasota and Naples, Angela Rodriguez is an award-winning interior designer whose firm has handled commercial and residential THE OBJECTS: Part of Modern Matter’s vast hardware inventory, the brand’s pulls and pull sets incorporate solid brass, Lucite, and gemstones of various shapes and colors for a vibe that’s unabashedly glamorous. IN HER WORDS: “Great custom cabinetry in a kitchen or bathroom deserves beautiful hardware because it completes the look, just like jewelry brings together an outfit. That’s why I love Modern Matter’s pulls with custom gemstones. They always work.” angelarodriguezinteriors.com; modern-matter.com
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANGELA RODRIGUEZ INTERIORS
projects all along Florida’s Gulf Coast and beyond.
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L O O K AT W H AT W E D I D TO T H I S S P E C H O U S E
THE WALNUT KITCHEN
BY JILL GEISDORF
J U S T T H I N K O F W H AT W E C A N D O F O R YO U F u e l e d b y C r e a t i v i t y • D r i v e n b y Tr a n s p a r e n c y INTERIOR DESIGN
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CD CLIVE DANIEL HOME
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