Florida Design Sarasota 2.2

FLORIDA DESIGN

Autumn Glow

A Lakewood Ranch Estate Goes for Gold

The Most Wildly Successful New Waterfront Community

Wild Blue at Waterside has captivated homeowners with its Lakewood Ranch location, incomparable residences and resort-style amenities. This awardwinning community by Stock Development features single-family homes by some of the area’s most notable builders and incredible lifestyle amenities, including the 13-acre Midway Sports Complex, opening in Winter 2025, plus a social clubhouse with indoor and outdoor dining, two pools, a movie theater, fitness center, and a 9-hole premier putting course. Now’s the time to discover Sarasota’s most desirable nature-centric luxury community.

Bonita Springs House of Cabinetry 239-948-3040

Bradenton Epoch Solutions 941-761-8855

Bradenton Epoch Solutions 941-761-8855

Cape Coral Top Level Cabinetry 239-310-5535

Ft. Lauderdale Lifestyle Cabinetry 954-563-1801

Living Color Cabinetry 954-970-9511

Fort Myers

Dwayne Bergmann Interiors 239-344-7455

Islamorada JDR Designs 610-639-3905

Jacksonville Kitchen Art of North Florida 904 262-5580

Lake Mary Signature Kitchens 407-330-6860

Melbourne Pro Cabinets of Central Florida 269 290 9632

Miami Luv My Kitchens

786-276-9990

Trimline Design 305-666-7609

Naples Tradewind Designs 239-354-4708

Interior by Design West 239-514-1234

Palm Beach Gardens

Rachel Eve Designs 561-694-0146

Sarasota Cooks Custom Cabinetry 941-366-6112

Renaissance Design Studio 941-921-9393

Stuart Superior Kitchens 772-286-6803

Tampa Artisan Design 813-922-7909

Vero Beach

Dawn Wallace Designs 772-999-2691

William Charles 772-562-5101

For more inspiration visit wood-mode.com

TRANQUILITY. INSIDE AND OUT.

FLORIDA DESIGN

INTERIOR

A

INTERIOR DESIGN BY LISA GUILD, CASEY O’BRIEN & AMANDA BUGAR

A seasoned designer delivers subtle elegance in a new build in Lakewood Ranch.

INTERIOR

After a renovation, expansion, and image makeover, an Anna Maria Island home’s gregarious owners have reason to celebrate.

VALUE

INTERIOR DESIGN BY EMILY MOSS

A designer fulfills an Anna Maria Island couple’s dream for laid-back coastal living with a new build on a long-owned piece of prime land.

Concrete savant James De Wulf scores a win with the Mah jong table.

Two new lifestyle shops cater to the whimsical side of

The forthcoming Renzo Piano-designed Sarasota Performing Arts Center marks a turning point for two of the city’s leading architects.

Steffani Drass believes in architecture with emotional connection.

The principles of the Sarasota School of Architecture inform the design of a Lido Shores home by Hive Architects.

Designers Meg Carson and Chloe Harlan receive glowing reviews for a Longboat Key penthouse that tells its story through light colors, fine textures, and expert layering.

Landscape architect Michael Gilkey’s award-winning gardens are all about establishing emotional engagement.

Artist Joe Fig explores the voyeuristic appeal of contemplation with a new exhibition at the Sarasota Art Museum.

The King’s Lodge at The Connaught combines the artisanal heritage of diverse cultures with the storied London hotel’s tradition of impeccable luxury.

Once again, MOD Weekend 2024 sets out to celebrate and preserve the legacy of the Sarasota School of Architecture.

Designer Laura Honors leans into the earthy subtlety of Ethan Stebbins’ Wabi Sabi bench.

FLORIDA DESIGN

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Daphne Nikolopoulos

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Luis R. Rigual

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Laurie Spector

ACQUISITIONS EDITOR

Annette Sessa-Galbo

MARKET EDITOR

Kristen Desmond Lefevre

WEB EDITOR

Abigail Duffy

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Riki Altman-Yee | Christopher Day

Jeanne Delathouder | Saxon Henry

Mallory Jacobson | Kelley Marcellus

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ryan Gamma | Amy Lamb/NativeHouse

Christopher Restrepo | Amy Vischio

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Selene M. Ceballo

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lourdes Linares

PRODUCTION COORDINATORS

Ileana Caban

Anaely J. Perez-Vargas

DIGITAL PREPRESS SPECIALIST

George Davis

SENIOR DESIGNER

Jeffrey Rey

GROUP PUBLISHER

Terry Duffy

PUBLISHER, SARASOTA

Elizabeth Goodman

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Kim Aloia | Denise Autorino

Harvey M. Dana | Jennifer Dardano

Susan Gibson Howard | Dina Turner

DIGITAL ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Ryan Hollihan

MARKETING MANAGER

Rebecca Desir

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Tyler Sansone

ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATOR

Elizabeth Hackney

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Todd Schmidt

IT MANAGER

Omar Greene

CIRCULATION/SUBSCRIPTIONS

Marjorie Leiva

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Judy Heflin

CIRCULATION PROMOTIONS MANAGER

David Supple

CIRCULATION ASSISTANTS

Britney Stinson | Cathy Hart

LOGISTICS MANAGER

Omar Morales

ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST

Mary Beth Cook

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST

Ana Coronel

SARASOTA’S TOMORROW

You can bet that when news spread that Renzo Piano would be the architect to design the forthcoming Sarasota Performing Arts Center, design types all over the world immediately entered the city name into their search engines. It’s not every day that a Pritzker Prize-winning architect signs on to develop a multimillion-dollar, forward-thinking, career-defining project that’s bound to transform the Sarasota Bay area and usher in a cultural renaissance for the Gulf Coast. (No pressure, Renzo.)

For local design enthusiasts, the Renzo Piano selection was certainly noteworthy, but even more so was the announcement of Sarasota-based Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors as the project’s architect of record. As such, the firm will ensure Piano’s vision is executed properly—as well as manage the design team, coordinate contractor bids, inspect job sites, and, in essence, deal with the miles of red tape that come with a job like this—but they also get to put their signature on the endeavor. In the case of Sweet Sparkman, the studio will be responsible for the park and green space that will surround the SPAC. Contributor Saxon Henry spoke to firm principals Todd Sweet and Jerry Sparkman about what this means for them as well as what they hope to achieve. “We now have the opportunity to help create a legacy project that will change Sarasota,” says Sweet in the article. “With SPAC and the park, future generations will have access to the arts within a remarkable green space.” As more information is revealed, you can expect to read more about the SPAC in future issues of FD Sarasota, so consider this first story a preview of coming attractions.

Of course, Sarasota architecture is worthy of press and discussion regardless of starchitects and glossy projects. The Sarasota School style, which has influenced design all over the world, was born right here and its impact prevails. We get a first-hand look at this in “Local Flavor,” which highlights the way Hive Architects adapted the precepts of the Sarasota School in the design of a home in Lido Shores. Another architecture department worth your attention is the profile on Steffani Drass, the leader of TROP Architecture. We opted to highlight Steffani in these pages because we were enthralled by the way she brings emotional connection to her work. I think you’ll feel the same way once you read about her. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention our coverage of this year’s MOD Weekend. While this gathering is hardly new, the programming is always fresh and compelling. This year’s theme is “Reawakening,” and it will explore the concept of renovation and restoration in architecture. I, for one, can’t wait. Just as I can’t wait to see Sarasota’s tomorrow begin to take shape.

LUIS R. RIGUAL Editor-in-Chief lrigual@floridadesign.com

PHOTO

GULF COAST STYLE

As we’ve made obvious through our pages since our inaugural issue just over a year ago, the Sarasota region is renowned for its lauded architectural landscape, one that’s heavily influenced by the area’s tropical climate and rich cultural history. Our architectural identity is defined by several styles, but none are as prominent as the Sarasota School of Architecture and mid-century modern.

These types of architecture exist not only here on the Gulf Coast, but all over the world as well. When I was growing up in the Midwest, I had no idea I lived in a house that featured influences from both styles. I just remember loving the clean lines and the walls of glass that made our garden feel like it was part of our home. Those transparent walls were certainly a challenge when they iced over during our frigid winters, and I’m certain that’s the reason why no other house in our neighborhood looked like ours. Perhaps that should have been my first clue that I was destined to live in Southwest Florida.

Dr iving around Sarasota reveals that these styles are not going anywhere. Whether it’s a new build or a historic one, the parameters that define the Sarasota School and mid-century modern styles are as appealing as ever. What’s not to like about clean lines and flowing floor plans? In my opinion, these are the ideal backdrops for any type of interior design. Many of the features in this edition—from LMG Design Consulting, Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design, Trade Mark Interior Design, Hendrickson Interiors, and Emily Moss Designs—offer solid proof of this. On that note, don’t you just love the coastal-tinged elegance that radiates from our cover? That’s a spectacular 4,000-square-foot house in Lakewood Ranch built by Stock Luxury Homes and designed by Lisa Guild and her team at LMG Design Consulting in collaboration with Stock’s Pizzazz Interiors. I often worry about too many cooks in the kitchen when it comes to creative projects, but this one is a testament to the power of group efforts.

Beyond the features, I was delighted to preview the Architecture departments in this volume. If you have any doubts about Sarasota being a city of the future, make sure to read the article about the forthcoming Sarasota Performing Arts Center by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano and the involvement of local firm Sweet Sparkman Architects. If you’ve been around this area for a while, you’ve no doubt seen the superior work of Steffani Drass at TROP Architecture, which is highlighted here. The same can be said about Hive Architects and the studio’s award-winning structures, one of which (in Lido Shores) is the focus of an article in this edition. And although it’s been around for a while, I always learn something new from the annual MOD Weekend, Sarasota’s annual forum on architecture. As this volume’s article tells us, this year’s edition will certainly be worth it.

Enjoy the issue.

LIZ GOODMAN Publisher lgoodman@floridadesign.com

LISA GUILD

LMG Design Consulting

“Stylish Serenity,” page 76

The Lakewood Ranch residence that graces this edition’s cover is a superior example of collaboration. Lisa Guild of LMG Design Consulting led a team that included two of her associates, Casey O’Brien and Amanda Bugar, as well as designers from Pizzazz Interiors, the interior design arm of Stock Luxury Homes, the builder of the 4,000-square-foot house. Everyone involved brought their A-game to deliver a space defined by subtle elegance. “Our overall approach with this home was to carve out individual spaces and infuse them with personality,” says Guild. “We opted for a neutral palette that allowed us to make key decisions about our design strategy.” lmgdesignconsulting.com

JULIANNE HENDRICKSON

Hendrickson Interiors

“Revived and Refined,” page 104

ANNE FOLSOM SMITH

Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design

“Radical Revamp,” page 84

When she was called on to head up the contemporary renovation of a sprawling Lido Shores home, which has five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms, as well as a guest house, interior designer Anne Folsom Smith was elated. After 40 years as an interior designer, she’s tackled her fair share of gargantuan projects, and she knew the key to this one was to let the space and its views dictate her approach. “With our talented design team, we are able to go beyond the basics to conjure a transformative result,” says Smith, who worked on the project with her associate, Fabiola Softas. “The finished property reflects the homeowners’ personalities and sets itself apart from the norm.” annefolsomsmith.com

EMILY MOSS

Emily Moss Designs

“Property Value,” page 112

TRACEE MURPHY

Trade Mark Interior Design

“Coastal Color,” page 94

Sometimes, a particular shade simply works wonders. Just ask interior designer Tracee Murphy, who relied on variations of the color teal to balance out the interior design of a vacation home in Sarasota’s Oyster Bay community. “Our color story was based on coastal jewel tones,” says Murphy, who collaborated with her senior designer, Casey Liptak, on the project. “As we targeted a complex and dynamic color palette that would speak to the coastal allure of Sarasota, we focused on a dramatic use of teal hues for impact. The overall design style induces feelings of warmth, intimacy, and comfort, with the spa-like tranquility of watery environments.” trademarkinteriordesign.com

Tapped to make an Anna Maria Island home more suitable for regular entertaining, designer Julianne Hendrickson had to fine-tune the 4,000-square-foot residence’s beachy essence to make it even more social and welcoming. After the designers and homeowners settled on an exterior color—Sherwin-Williams’ Let it Rain shade, a soothing blue with slate gray undertones—the tone for the rest of the design was set. “They wanted their home to feel cozy, but elegant,” says Hendrickson, who worked on the home with design associate Toni Jabaay. “We went with light and bright colors that felt easy and comfortable.” The approach worked. Just a few weeks after the renovation, the homeowners hosted a birthday party and immediately called Hendrickson the day after to tell her it was a complete success. hendricksoninteriors.com

When two Anna Maria Island homeowners decided they wanted to build a new house on the same land site they’d owned for 40 years, they knew they’d need the right team for the job. For design matters, they opted to go with a local who would effortlessly understand their strong connection to the area and their love for sharing it with others. In came Anna Maria Island resident Emily Moss and her crew. “They entrusted our design team to craft a spacious custom home with an open floor plan, thoughtful architectural details, and expansive outdoor spaces designed for gatherings,” says Moss. “From the rooftop deck’s panoramic vistas to the warm, inviting interiors, this home offers the perfect balance of coastal luxury and family-friendly comfort.” emilymossdesigns.com

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE.

“Best showroom in town with an amazingly knowledgeable staff.”

- DAVID B.

ANNE FOLSOM SMITH INTERIOR DESIGN

Located in a 1924 historical building in downtown Sarasota, Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design has been responsible for some of the area’s most prestigious home designs. The main mission for Smith and her design team is to listen, understand and translate the personal tastes of their clients. Liaising with architects, contractors, and landscape designers from North America and Europe allows the firm to stay in touch with innovation in both classic and contemporary trends. Fusing individual taste with the work of great artists, sculptors, muralists, and artisans of ceramics and custom furniture has become more than a joy—it is a passion for every member of the design team. While offering services from consultation to remodeling to new build, the firm also provides in-house architectural plans, custom-cabinet design, and space planning among many others. Let Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design bring your concepts to reality.

ANNE FOLSOM SMITH

INTERIOR DESIGN

330 S. Pineapple Ave., Suite 206 Sarasota, FL 34236

941-957-0434

annefolsomsmith.com

BCB HOMES

For over 30 years, BCB Homes has worked diligently to earn and maintain a reputation for excellence. Originating in Naples, BCB Homes has built and remodeled exceptional homes in the most prestigious neighborhoods. The company was founded by a group of second-generation builders whose dream was to raise the building standards in Southwest Florida.

With over 500 clients in luxury communities, BCB Homes has proven to be a resilient, enduring company committed to making the building experience enjoyable and effortless. A relationship with BCB Homes begins well before construction and extends long past the completion of your new home.

Combining new technology with proven old-world traditions, BCB Homes, quite simply, builds a better home. However, the firm’s greatest success is its commitment to its founding principles and practices and building quality and livability in every home.

BCB Homes builds and remodels projects of all sizes and scopes and remedy issues that vintage homes might experience, such as roof and window leaks and air conditioner performance concerns. Whatever your needs, whenever they occur, BCB Homes will be there to fulfill them

BCB HOMES

2724 Fruitville Road, Suite 104

Sarasota, FL 34237

941-330-0800

bcbhomes.com

DUNCAN MCCLELLAN GALLERY

Nestled in the heart of the Warehouse Arts District of St. Petersburg, Florida, Duncan McClellan Gallery is a hub for the glass art community and a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and artistic identity. It features rotating exhibitions of the works of over 100 nationally and internationally recognized artists, most of whom work in the challenging medium of glass. Artists work in the St. Petersburg Hot Glass Workshop, part of the same complex, also shared with the educational charity, DMG School Project, Inc., which sponsors free hot glass demonstrations and lectures throughout the year. This beautiful, multifunctional space is full of lush, fruitbearing trees and vegetation. The 7,800 square-foot gallery is a meeting place for artists, visiting dignitaries, private events, and the community wishing to view the museum-quality artwork, all of which is for sale. The hot glass workshop provides a state-of-the art facility for artists to bring their artistic vision to life, while visitors are welcome to watch the artistic process unfold and meet the professional artists from all over the world. DMG School Project also utilizes a hot glass mobile unit and offers tours and art projects on the premises. Come see why we’re “more than a gallery.”

DUNCAN MCCLELLAN GALLERY

2342 Emerson Ave. S.

St. Petersburg, FL 33712

855-436-4527

dmglass.com

PARTNERS IN STYLE

The newly launched collaboration between luxury rug and carpet brand STARK and legendary Italian fashion house MISSONI is bound to captivate design and fashion enthusiasts alike. The collection includes nine stocked rug styles, five custom rug styles, and 10 stunning carpet styles, each showcasing Missoni’s signature flair and Stark’s meticulous attention to detail. The Missoni Deep Stripe in the ocean colorway (below) mixes silk and metal yarns to create its dynamic texture. starkcarpet.com/collections/missoni

Fit To Be Tied

BOWS,

KNOTS,

AND LOOPS MAKE THE ULTIMATE WINSOME STATEMENT

1 The looping, gold-leafed frame of the Storrs chandelier by CURREY & COMPANY is enhanced with 14 milky glass globes that bathe any space in ambient light. curreyandcompany.com 2 Designed by Nika Zupanc for QEE BOO, the Ribbon Chair sparkles with golden feminine vibes. qeeboo.com

Boasting a fashion-forward pattern of striped bows and whimsical tassels, the Bow-Wow-Wow wallpaper by Marian McEvoy for SCHUMACHER was originally devised for a shoe silhouette. schumacher.com 4 With no joints in sight, the Looping bench by KINO GUERIN is made from laminated and bent plywood covered in several layers of wood veneer. kinoguerin.com 5 The Aura table lamp from LUKE LAMP CO. provides warm illumination that’s ideal for bedside reading. lukelampco.com 6 Crafted from white mother-ofpearl and polished nickel, the Avalon Bay Ribbon drawer pull from SCHAUB AND COMPANY adorns any piece of furniture or cabinetry with sartorial style. schaubandcompany.com 3 6 1

Dianne Davant Moffitt, asiD

Priscilla Hyatt councill, asiD

Photography by Dan Forer

RAISING CANE

THE ECO-CHIC OFFSPRING OF THE RATTAN PALM PLANT IS SUDDENLY THE TEXTURE OF THE MOMENT

LEFT: Inspired by Pierre Jeanneret’s iconic Chandigarh chair, the Jakob armchair from RH features a handwoven cane seat and back. rh.com

ABOVE: The natural cane shades on the Bonnet fixture by MAXIM LIGHTING curve over exposed bulbs like the brim of a bonnet. maximlighting.com

ABOVE: The Amara console from MADE GOODS combines the grain patterns of a burl wood frame with stunning cane paneling. madegoods.com curreyandcompany.com

BELOW: Designed by Aimee Kurzner for CURREY & COMPANY, the Anisa storage bench features a series of cane panels woven in a variety of patterns and textures.

PHOTOS

ABOVE: Even walls can get in on the cane craze with this VOS angle cane webbing wallpaper from NLXL DIAMOND nlxl.com

LOUNGE ACT

ABOVE: Inspired by moments shared with his family in Uruguay, Argentinian architect Daniel Germani designed the Solana lounge chair for GANDIA BLASCO to facilitate outdoor memory-making of your own. gandiablasco.com

Designed by Karim

for VONDOM, the Voxel sun

offers an angular aesthetic. vondom.com

The Marisol chaise from LULU AND GEORGIA features a contoured, wicker seat that’s been reimagined for comfort by designer Sarah Sherman Samuel. luluandgeorgia.com

LEFT: The result of a challenge to design a chair using the absolute simplest form possible, the Line chair by TUPELO derives its shape from a single line drawn on a piece of paper. tupelogoods.com

The

by

with comfortable cushions that rest on elasticated straps tied around an Iroko wood frame. fendicasa.com

ABOVE:

Rashid

chaise

LEFT:

Kathy lounger

FENDI CASA beckons

RIGHT:

LEFT: The gold and crystal petals of the Fiorella chandelier by SCHONBEK marry natural shapes with sparkling luxury. schonbek.com

RIGHT: Crafted from white marble with brass accents, the Arlo side table from CENTURY FURNITURE features a center palm motif for sophisticated support. centuryfurniture.com

Palm Reader

ABOVE: Hand-woven rattan forms the Breakers floor lamp from SERENA & LILY, which is crowned by a trio of coconut-shaped light shades. serenaandlily.com

FLORIDA’S UBIQUITOUS FRONDS MOVE FROM THE GARDEN INTO THE HOME

ABOVE: A carved palm frond motif adorns the front of the St. Croix hall chest from TOMMY BAHAMA. tommybahamafurniture.com

LEFT: The A Palm is a Palm wallcovering by Johanna Ortiz for SCHUMACHER is an homage to the designer’s connection to tropical biodiversity. schumacher.com

PATTERN PLAY

ABOVE: The bevy of sphere-adorned legs on this Foxglove console table from UNIVERSAL lends chic whimsy to any space. universalfurniture.com

BELOW: Designed by Michelle Gerson for ARTISTIC TILE,the Slide tile is part of the brand’s Game On collection. artistictile.com

EYECATCHING MOTIFS EXPRESS CREATIVITY AND PLUCKY STYLE

LEFT: Inspired by Art Deco and mid-century modern designs, the Santorini rug by FJ KASHANIAN brings vibrant colors and fun shapes to any room. fjkashanian.com

ABOVE: The hand-painted Barberini chest from PORTE ITALIA offers eye-catching appeal as a nightstand or an accent table. porteitalia.com

LEFT: Meant to resemble the intricate patterns of a loggerhead’s shell, the Turtle table by NGALA TRADING is crafted from leather at Xavier Clarisse’s studio in Durban, South Africa. ngalatrading.com

SARASOTA’S MOST ICONIC WATERFRONT SPECIALIST SINCE 1980

Written in the STARS

CELESTIAL THEMES MAKE POWERFUL STATEMENTS AS STANDOUT HOME FURNISHINGS

1 Add some twinkle to your space with the Stars wallcovering from the block print archives of COLE & SON. cole-and-son.com 2 Paying homage to the ancient legend of the twofaced Roman god Janus, the aptly named Janus wall mirror from ATLAS PROJECT otherworldly sophistication. atlasproject.it

3 The lunar-inspired, marble-topped nestling table trio from TOV is sure to have design lovers over the moon. tovfurniture.com

offers 6

4 Seeing signs never looked so chic with the Constellations ambient light fixture from RICHARD CLARKSON , which comes in all 12 Zodiac configurations rclarkson.com 5 Chapman and Myers–designed Moravian Star lanterns from VISUAL COMFORT can be combined in a series of statement pieces or displayed as one. visualcomfort.com 6 faux shagreen–wrapped Capella accent table from UTTERMOST gold leaf trim to ensure it shines brightly in any setting. uttermost.com

Game On!

CONCRETE SAVANT JAMES DE WULF SCORES A WIN WITH THE MAHJONG TABLE

THE INSPIRATION

For designer James De Wulf, design comes from a personal place, a fact that’s clearly illustrated by his new Mahjong Table: “My wife is Cantonese, and she and her family introduced me to the game, and now I love everything about it: the sound of the tiles, the long history behind it, and the intensity of the players. It’s mostly played on a simple, flat surface, so I wanted to make a special table for the game.”

THE PROCESS

“First, the bronze is made. Then we create a positive mold from wood and then press it into sand. The wood is removed, and the molten bronze is poured into the void in the sand. Afterward, we place those pieces into another mold and pour the concrete. Once the concrete and bronze are one, we polish and seal all the pieces and attach the felt. It’s a time-consuming process, so each table takes about two months to complete.”

THE MATERIALS

“We chose a felt that provides a nice glide for the tiles to slide and clack together. The bronze is a non-corrosive metal that I consider a beautiful accent. And there’s concrete, of course, my cruel mistress of the last 20 years. I can’t quite put my finger on why I’m so drawn to this material, but it is what it is. I’ve refined the mix, pour, cure, and finish of it, so it’s not the concrete people think of when they hear the word.”

THE FINAL WORD

“The final design is calming and smooth with a rounded base and soft tones. This gives it a gentle, feminine feel. My hope with this table was to create a lasting heirloom for families to enjoy for generations to come.” jamesdewulf.com

PHOTO

Luxury Outdoor Living with Timeless Style

Schedule a complimentary design consultation today to create a personalized plan for the spaces and structures that will transform your outdoor home into a beautiful, functional, and inviting space.

Beachside Elegance

THE ST. REGIS BRAND BRINGS ITS FIVESTAR PANACHE TO LONGBOAT KEY

The new St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is the biggest thing to happen to the Gulf Coast hospitality in a while. With interiors by Hirsch Bedner Associates, the 168-room St. Regis’ look was inspired by Southwest Florida’s natural elements and the historical legacy of Sarasota’s preeminent founding father, circus magnate John Ringling. Subtle design elements that nod to the Big Top heritage include elegant rope chandeliers and the oval-shaped layout of the Astor Ballroom, which is reminiscent of a circus tent. At the St. Regis Bar, a latticed

These motifs never veer into cliché territory, but rather enliven the contemporary decor. Not to be missed are the property’s two mosaic artworks: one at the front entry made up of more than 350,000 pieces, and another on the second rooftop featuring 750,000 handlaid tiles. And, with its illuminated crystal ceiling installation, the spa reception is worth a visit whether one has a treatment scheduled or not. marriott.com

18

of

LEFT: A subtle palette dominates the hotel’s spa reception, where a light crystal installation sets a tone of opulence.

SECOND TIME AROUND

Last year, the powers that be at Holly Hunt (the company) tapped its namesake and original owner (who sold her business to Knoll in 2014) to collaborate with Executive Creative Director Jo Annah Kornak on HH40, a collection to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Holly Hunt brand. That partnership was so successful, the two women decided to do it again for fall 2024 with Series II, a line of seven handcrafted designs for dining, living, and bedroom spaces that make the most of raw materials such as American black walnut and bronze. “This collection tells a story of materiality, craftsmanship, and quality, three fundamental values that have defined Holly Hunt’s legacy for the past 40 years and continue to guide our design ethos today,” says Kornak. “Series II is expressive and forward-thinking while still remaining elegant and understated.” hollyhunt.com

ABOVE: Jo Annah Kornak

INSET RIGHT: Holly Hunt

ABOVE: The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is anchored on

acres

sprawling beachfront and houses 168 rooms and suites.

RIGHT: The Ban and Yan side tables feature sculpted bases made of wood and lacquer.

circus cage surrounds a hand-painted mural by William Savarese.

Assembled by hand, the Ursa offers a modern take on the club chair.

“The decorative styles and forms that I allude to and incorporate in my works each contain a story based on historical backgrounds and ideas, myths, and allegories,” says Aoki Katsuyo of works like Loom II (2024), made of glazed porcelain.

Ceramic Ceiling

AN EXHIBITION AT THE RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART PUTS THE FOCUS ON FEMALE CLAY ARTISTS FROM JAPAN PUSHING POTTERY FORWARD

For much of history, female ceramic artists, particularly those in Asia, have not been given the treatment and credit they deserve. Radical Clay, an exhibition at The Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, aims to set the record straight by focusing on 40 superior ceramics by 36 different women from across Japan. “The artworks on display range from the sublimely beautiful to the delightfully grotesque,” says curator Rhiannon Paget. “Some sculptures celebrate—or seem to defy—their physical properties and the processes that shaped them, while others deceive the eye.” The creators featured in the show (running through May 25, 2025) span several generations, and while many have been featured in other showings, this is the first major exhibition to position these women together to highlight their collective achievements and impact. ringling.org

left: “I do consider my pieces to be functional vessels,” says Inaba Chikako of glazed stoneware artworks like Leaf Vessel (2017). “Not only in the sense that they can hold water and food, or be used as a flower vase, but also that they are containers to hold or envelop people’s thoughts and feelings.”

TIME AND PLACE

As designer Rosemary Hallgarten sees it, nothing beats travel for inspiration. The tastemaker’s new Aurelie Collection explores an interplay of past and present and the architectural imperfections brought on by time through a selection of fabrics, rugs, pillows, and throws. The idea for the line came to Hallgarten after visiting Château de Gudanes, an eighteenth-century neoclassical castle in the French Pyrenees, where the collection was photographed. Like her previous offerings, the designs (which range from graphic to ethereal) celebrate the tactile sensuality of textures. rosemaryhallgarten.com

above: A living room vignette showcasing the Aurelie Collection’s Vintage Wash area rug, Gaia Sheer curtains, sofas upholstered in the Pebble Bouclé fabric (a mix of alpaca and wool yarns), and select Fleur pillows

inset right: Designer Rosemary Hallgarten in front of the Château de Gudanes in the French Pyrenees

left: A game room setting featuring the Aurelie Collection’s Rivulet area rug, Petit Arabelle pillow, and chairs upholstered in the Cachet cotton fabric

VENETIAN VARIETY

ABOVE: Loeffler Randall Creative

Director Jesse Randall and McGee & Co. founder Shea McGee with their tabletop collection

Fashion Meets Design

MCGEE & CO. AND LOEFFLER RANDALL COME TOGETHER FOR

A STYLISH TABLETOP COLLECTION

INSET ABOVE: Ceramic Tabitha plates, eyelet napkin, and Elise seagrass placemat from the McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall collection

LEFT: The Tabitha vase is made from ceramic with a green finish and a scalloped opening.

It’s safe to assume designer Jacquelyn Bizzotto was dreaming of Venice when she came up with the San Marco Collection for New Ravenna. The new line of mosaics features 10 patterns that are synonymous with the Italian city and its gilded accents, Byzantine motifs, ancient geometric designs, marble terrazzo, and decorative stucco. “These mosaics not only showcase the aesthetic mastery of the artisans, but also serve as visual narratives of their culture, history, and values,” says Bizzotto. “Each pattern in the collection weaves a tale of Venetian splendor and captures the city’s centuriesold craftsmanship and artistry.” newravenna.com

McGee & Co. founder and interior designer Shea McGee first began considering a collaboration with fashion label Loeffler Randall while working on the final details of her kitchen renovation. “I was in my happy place thinking about the way I like to entertain and set my table,” she says, “which is with a ruffled tablecloth, lots of beautiful candles, and special plates with lovely details.” At some point during those musings, Loeffler Randall’s feminine dresses came to McGee’s mind and the idea for a new home collection inspired by the romantic styles of both brands was born. McGee reached out to LR Creative Director Jessie Randall, and the rest is history. Available this fall, the McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall collection includes gingham tablecloths with floral motifs, scalloped ceramic plates, eyelet napkins, crystal candlesticks, and other wares, all of which brim with the boho-chic, pastoral elegance that fans of both brands will instantly recognize. mcgeeandco.com

RIGHT: The Antonio pattern nods to the various elements of Venice’s architecture and features a white marble cosmos mosaic encircled by petrified wood.

LEFT: The Margherita pattern reinterprets the daisy flower as a Byzantine motif.

The collection’s cotton and linen pillows feature both solid colors and graphic patterns.

TALENT POOL

TWO RENOWNED DESIGNERS JOIN ROCHE BOBOIS’ ELITE ROSTER OF COLLABORATORS

Here’s a first—literally. The fall 2024 offerings from Roche Bobois feature two new collaborations with designers the brand has never worked with before. Designed by Franco-Chinese artist Jiang Qiong Er, the Bamboo Mood line is a modern interpretation of the traditional Chinese lounge in shades of celadon and coral, two iconic colors in Asian decorative arts. Also new to the Roche Bobois catalogue is renowned French designer Patrick Norguet and his Elanta line, a grouping of tables, chairs, and sideboards marked by intricate woodwork. Expect more from these creators in seasons to come. roche-bobois.com

Glass Acts

new Murano Collection of sinks includes a seashell design in pearl white (ABOVE), a circular version in black (RIGHT), and a seashell version in brown (BELOW).

Murano is to glass what caviar is to food. The mere mention of the name instantly denotes legacy, pedigree, and superior artistry. Ruvati’s new Murano Collection of hand-blown glass sinks certainly lives up to that description. The new line offers two styles: a sleek circular basin and a seashell design in vivid colors of blue, green, brown, or black with a glossy finish that make them ideal choices for a standout powder room. ruvati.com

RIGHT: Patrick Norguet’s Elanta sideboard features curved doors in oak veneer plywood.

ABOVE: Jiang Qiong Er’s Bamboo Mood chair is made of bamboo fabric and comes available in multiple density foams.

Ruvati’s

ABOVE: The new fall 2024 Bamboo Mood collection by Jiang Qiong Er for Roche Bobois embodies graceful lines and the essence of Asian decorative arts in shades of celadon and coral.

THIS AND THAT

YEAR OF THE RABBIT According to a superstition that dates to the early 1900s, repeating the word “rabbit” upon waking up on the first day of a new month ensures good luck for the next four weeks. That’s all Amanda Gilliand needed to hear to christen her lifestyle concept shop rabbit RABBIT when she opened the place on Sarasota’s Boulevard of the Arts. The inventory here is ideal for those seeking gifts, with selections that include glass incense holders, miniature ceramics, coasters, scented candles, and tea towels. “The shop supports creativity and sustainability while offering a fun shopping experience,” says Gilliand. “This is a place where you come in for a gift for others and leave with something for yourself.” rabbitrabbitsrq.com

FOX TALES

Big-name brands are well and good, but every town needs a place like The Fox Mercantile, a home store and café hybrid in Cortez, one of the last remaining fishing villages on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

“When I’m really into a project, I can see a vision for it imperially,” says owner Ashley Petrone. “And when we came across this amount of space, the wheels in my head just started spinning.” Said space, a former antiques shop called Sea Hagg, had the ample indoor and outdoor square footage to realize Petrone’s vision: a destination for both locals and tourists to enjoy a strong cup of coffee and then peruse a selection of home goods and gifts in the adjoining shop.“The inventory consists of glassware, unique linens, kitchen accessories, art, and local goods,” says Petrone, who lives with her husband and four kids in nearby Anna Maria Island. “Everything we offer is handpicked by me. I love curating collections based on the season of life I find myself in.”

Originally from California, Petrone and her husband, Dino, are particularly keen on this area of Florida. After opening the Jolie Inn, a boutique hotel on Anna Maria Island, in 2021, The Fox Mercantile felt like the logical next step. “This area is home to us,” adds Petrone. “We plan on being here for many years to come.” thefoxmercantile.com

right: This modular 3D printed vase made of reclaimed wood is typical of rabbit RABBIT’s inventory.

left: The Fox Mercantile’s inventory nods to furnishings made with natural materials and fibers. inset above: Shop owner Ashley Petrone

“Although the penthouse square footage is very open, we wanted to ensure each room was defined in its own way,” says designer Meg Carson. “We achieved that through furnishings, light and artwork.”

The Bright Touch

DESIGNERS MEG CARSON AND CHLOE HARLAN RECEIVE GLOWING REVIEWS FOR A LONGBOAT KEY PENTHOUSE THAT TELLS ITS STORY THROUGH LIGHT COLORS, FINE TEXTURES, AND EXPERT LAYERING

text CHRISTOPHER DAY interiors photography LAURA HENRY

the homeowners of this penthouse through a local builder and were soon tapped for a downto-the-studs renovation.

“No black.” That was the only firm directive two Ohio homeowners gave Meg Carson and Chloe Harlan when they charged the Sarasota-based interior designers with the look of their vacation penthouse in Longboat Key. The two Emcy Interior Design pros delivered with a cozy dose of modernism that feels both welcoming and elegant. Here, they reveal their approach.

What was your main inspiration for the design of this residence? Meg Carson: The inspiration came from the clients’ mid-century modern home in Ohio, which is characterized by light tones and curvilinear elements.

These clients didn’t want anything too dark in their home, as they made clear with their “no black” rule. Were you concerned about how you were going to create contrast? Chloe Harlan: With the color black out of the equation, we knew we would have to impart contrast

above: “This more direct view of the foyer highlights its elongated shape, which we enhanced,” says Carson. “The wood feature running the length of the room serves to compliment its natural lines. The furnishings anchor the space and define the area as an entry point where we envision initial conversations starting among the homeowners and their guests.”

left: Emcy Interior Design’s Chloe Harlan (senior designer) and Meg Carson (founder and principal) met

and dimension with a layering of textures, so we relied on materials like bouclé upholstery, velvets, and bold natural marbles.

What are some examples of that approach? CH: In the finish materials. For instance, we used reeded cabinet fronts on the walk-up bar, pinnacle marble tile on the family room fireplace, and various wallcoverings that range from leather to heavy grass cloths.

The interior is very neutral but not at all cold. How did you achieve that? MC: The warm, inviting atmosphere despite the neutral palette also has to do with the various layered textures and different materials. The use of stained wood throughout the penthouse was particularly important for this reason. Wood added the depth and warmth that contribute to the soft, contemporary feel of the residence.

What type of flooring was used throughout the apartment? MC: There’s a sophisticated mix of Calacatta Gold marble and white oak European engineered hardwood in the public spaces, and mosaic marble tile in each of the bathrooms.

What was the overall approach to furnishings? MC: Our primary focus was on livable yet alluring pieces, as form will always follow function. All in all, soft, beautiful, and functional was the direction we went in and the outcome we achieved.

The residence has a significant art collection on display. Were you involved in the art selection at all?

CH: Yes. The homeowners had a few existing pieces, but we also tapped artists from Nashville to New York City to create custom artworks. As our foundation was neutral, it was important to compliment the space with these pops of color.

What was the most challenging aspect of this project?

MC: You would think it was craning the marble slabs or custom sectionals into the penthouse through the balcony, but we didn’t have a single issue with that due to our amazing project manager. The biggest challenge was planning our final furnishings installation to coordinate with the homeowners’ first stay and ensure all was completed for that. It required extensive communication, but we succeeded.

What was the homeowners’ reaction when you revealed the project? MC: They were tear-filled with awe. We walked the space inch by inch and finished with a celebratory glass of champagne at the Longboat Key Club House. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. emcyinteriordesign.com

above: “Bold, sophisticated, and functional were the terms that came to mind when we were planning the dining room,” says interior designer Chloe Harlan. “Magnolia Custom Cabinetry brought our built-in cabinet designs to life, and we collaborated with Studio Art to create a custom leather wallcovering that adds an artistic element to the room.”

left: “Artworks by Jenna Krypell frame the entrance to the kitchen, which is clean and timeless,” says Harlan. “The dominant material here is Arabescato Vagli marble. We opted for Benjamin Moore’s Grey Mist shade for the cabinets.”

Seaglass AWARD S

SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED FROM

October 1 through December 15, 2024

ExteriorDesign:B.PilaDesignStudio Photography:NickJohnson

InteriorDesign:NarDesignStudio Photography:GabrielVolpi

Watch and Observe

ARTIST JOE FIG EXPLORES THE VOYEURISTIC APPEAL OF CONTEMPLATION WITH A NEW EXHIBITION AT THE SARASOTA ART MUSEUM

Observation is the cornerstone of creation— and that’s very much the way Joe Fig sees his role an artist. The Sarasota-based painter, sculptor, and author got his start in the 1980s working at the Bowery studio of a German expressionist-style painter who liked to listen to jazz as he worked. Those tunes, and the distinct smells of the oil paints and rabbit-skin glue used to stretch canvases, are forever imprinted in Fig’s memory.

“It was something from another time,” says Fig of that formative period when he first noted the preparation that comes in advance of endeavor. “I just loved being there.”

A decade later, when he enrolled in the graduate program at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, Fig tapped into those memories. “I started looking at the studio as a form of portraiture and how each different studio reflects an artist’s own creative process, and, consequently, part of the artist’s personality,” he says. Over the years, these musings have inspired Fig’s own work (which includes a large oeuvre of oil paintings and sculptures, as well as two books that explore the artistic process) and they very much inform his new exhibition at the Sarasota Art Museum, Contemplating Vermeer (November 17, 2024 to April 13, 2025).

left: Vermeer: Girl with a Pearl Earring/Mauritshuis, 2023, oil on linen. Joe Fig’s painting highlighting Vermeer’s most iconic work features a different background from others in the exhibition because he saw it at The Hague rather than the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam.

The show focuses on 16 paintings from Fig’s Contemplations series, which resulted from a 2023 trip he took to Amsterdam to catch a sold-out exhibition at the Rijksmuseum featuring 80 works by Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. While at the showing, Fig took hundreds of photos focusing on the visitors admiring Vermeer’s famous masterpieces. Once back home, he recreated those photographic scenes in explicit detail in a group of oil paintings.

“When I was a student, I remember a teacher saying that you can always tell when an artist is at a museum or gallery because they look at the art differently from other people,” says Fig, who serves as chair for the departments of fine arts and visual arts at the Ringling College of Art and Design. “While others step back to appreciate them, we get up close trying to investigate how they were made.”

Curated by Rangsook Yoon, the exhibition at the Sarasota Art Museum will be arranged similar to the way the Rijksmuseum show Fig attended was composed, something the artist is delighted about.

“I can’t wait to see how it’s going to look,” says Fig. “People looking at my work of people looking at Vermeer’s work. Should be interesting.” sarasotaartmuseum.org

text KELLEY MARCELLUS

below: Artist Joe Fig in his Sarasota studio

above: Vermeer: Girl Reading a Letter at an Open Window/Rijksmuseum, 2023, oil on linen. Fig recreated the people depicted in this painting from different photos he took at the Rijksmuseum exhibition, creating negative space that allows the Vermeer work to be seen.

right: Vermeer: Woman in Blue Reading a Letter/ Rijksmuseum, 2023, oil on linen. From the women’s stances to the older woman’s cane to the yellow museum admission wristband, the compositional details in this painting are substantial.

below: Vermeer: The Procuress/Rijksmuseum, 2023, oil on linen. For this painting, Fig created a balance of colors to emphasize the eye connection between the Vermeer artwork and the patrons viewing it.

above: Vermeer: The Lacemaker/Rijksmuseum, 2023, oil on linen. The first work in the exhibition, this painting, with the subject leaning at an angle, hints at the observation theme to come.

Homes that will be seen during the MOD Weekend architectural tours include the Joseph Gould/ Chapell House, originally designed by Hiss Associates, at 1080 Westway Drive on Lido Key. The property was purchased and renovated by architect Don Chapell in the early 1980s.

Show and Tell

ONCE AGAIN, MOD WEEKEND 2024 SETS OUT TO CELEBRATE AND PRESERVE THE LEGACY OF THE SARASOTA SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE

text SAXON HENRY

As design-centric, educational events in Florida go, few can claim the organization, forethought, and programming that goes into Sarasota’s annual MOD Weekend (November 14 to 17). Produced by Architecture Sarasota to celebrate the legacy of the design style known as the Sarasota School of Architecture, the showcase’s packed roster includes trolley, walking, boat, and kayak tours, as well as moderated panel discussions and lectures with some of the top architects in the country. While the gathering largely caters to design and architecture connoisseurs, the MOD agenda does offer opportunities for mere enthusiasts and newbies. Among these is Yoga Under the Umbrella, a stretch session at one of the Sarasota School’s most famous landmarks (Umbrella House), and Brunch With the Bunch, an afternoon with the Sarasota School’s next generation.

The latter explains the 2024 theme of the event, Reawakening, as Morris Hylton III, the organization’s president, explains: “When we talk about the Sarasota School, we often cloak it in the past tense, but it’s actually alive and well.”

The trajectory from the past into the future that the theme represents involves a now-famous book written in 1997 by John Howey titled The Sarasota School of Architecture, 1941-1966

“Howey called an early chapter in the book ‘The Awakening’ because he identified the beginning of the Sarasota School at the moment when Paul Rudolph arrived in 1941,” adds Hylton.

“It’s true that it waned during the 1970s and ’80s, but it’s going strong now.”

above: The interiors of the Joseph Gould/Chapell House show the spirit of the age in which the residence was originally built. Most of the rooms in the one-story home have direct access to the outside to promote cross-ventilation.

Though Howey declared that 1966 brought the end to Sarasota School activity, Hylton points out that 1966 was also the year one of the surviving members of the group, Carl Abbott, arrived in Sarasota to continue working with the precepts the earliest practitioners applied to their designs. Conversations like these still absorb those who are determined to continue their traditions. On Sunday, November 17, Brunch With the Bunch will feature several generations of these individuals, as Jonathan Parks, Michael Epstein, and Guy Peterson join a panel moderated by Damien Blumetti and Hylton.

“We’re about preserving the heritage the original architects began,” says Hylton. “The real legacy is the design thinking— how to respond to the environment that involves controlling the sun and how architecture relates to the natural surroundings.” He points out that the concepts that continue to evolve represent socio-cultural transitions still. “Sarasota’s architects continue to be very experimental,” he explains. “Fortunately, they have clients who are willing to make it possible for them to do so.” For those who ask why Sarasota’s built world continues to be in the spotlight, he notes: “We have about 60,000 residents here and for this size population we have a very high number of architects. This gives us the opportunity to make a disproportionate impact on the world of design globally.” architecturesarasota.org

a boat’s

“What a great reference to a coastal location!”

below: The Chapell Residence at 150 Morningside Drive on Lido Key was designed by Donald Chapell as his own home. The house contains approximately 12 different volumes with 17 different roof levels.

above: Victor Lundy is the architect behind the St. Paul Lutheran Church at 2256 Bahia Vista Street in Sarasota. Wade Lemke, who nominated the building for the Moderns that Matter Dictionary, said it reminds him of

sail:

A rendering of the Sarasota Performing Arts Center’s Cultural Promenade reveals a walkway that will connect all the center’s buildings. It can be illuminated at night and will provide shade during the day.

Game Changer

THE FORTHCOMING RENZO PIANO-DESIGNED SARASOTA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER MARKS A TURNING POINT FOR TWO OF THE CITY’S LEADING ARCHITECTS

text SAXON HENRY

After working side by side at their eponymous firm for more than two decades, Todd Sweet and Jerry Sparkman find themselves in a heady moment. Although the two architects had their eye on the Sarasota Performing Arts Center (SPAC) project that is now in its planning phase and knew if they were chosen they would be working with a prestigious firm, the fact that they are collaborating with the renowned—and Pritzker Prize–winning— Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW) marks a pivotal turning point.

“We pursued the project, but we didn’t know we’d be working with one of the top firms in the world,” says Sparkman. “This has been a shot in the arm because now people understand we can take on seriously complex projects and support other teams outside our own practice.”

Not only was Sweet Sparkman chosen as Architect of Record for the SPAC, but it was also tapped to realize different aspects of the park that will surround it. “We now have the opportunity to help create a legacy project that will change Sarasota,” says Sweet. “With

above: Todd Sweet and Jerry Sparkman are the principals and founders of Sweet Sparkman Architects, the firm chosen as Architect of Record for the Sarasota Performing Arts Center (SPAC).

ABOVE: Winner of the 1998 Pritzker Architecture Prize, Renzo Piano heads up Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW), the firm responsible for the upcoming Sarasota

SPAC and the park, future generations will have access to the arts within a remarkable green space.”

The SPAC’s initial design concepts were revealed to the community through two town halls in July and September of 2024, during which RPBW and Sweet Sparkman made presentations and took questions from attendees. The new center will be showcased in four volumes separated from one another so as to permit light, nature, and circulation through the buildings. This will also afford clear sightlines out to the water, and each of the structures will be elevated above the ground to create more public space below. A large proposed theater will seat approximately 2,500 to 2,700 visitors while a second, smaller one will accommodate 600 to 800 patrons; the smallest of the three venues, a multipurpose space that would host a range of events, will hold around 300. The buildings will be designed to seamlessly connect with nature, offering shaded walkways, vegetated areas, and views of the water. Now that they have had community feedback, the two architectural firms and their respective consultants will enter the schematic phase of the project in early in 2025, which will be an intensive process for both teams, the expectation being that the project will take several years to realize.

“When we were interviewing with RPBW, they asked us, ‘How will you adapt your firm to work with us?’ and ‘Are you willing to change so you can step into a new arena?’” says Sparkman. “Those were impactful questions for us to answer and we have been monumentally inspired by every step we’ve taken with them.”

The admiration between the two firms is mutual. “We see Sweet Sparkman as our partners in this adventure, and we strongly believe their qualities, values, and experience will be key to the project’s success,” said a statement issued by RPBW. “We selected them not only for their proficiency and local knowledge of the construction industry but for their spirit and the teamwork they put forth.” sweetsparkman.com; rpbw.com

RIGHT: The proposed site plan of the conceptual design for the SPAC reveals abundant green space around the buildings.

BELOW: This scale model of the conceptual design of the SPAC includes the separate buildings for the lobby, and the large, medium, and small theaters.

Performing Arts Center (SPAC).

This rendering of the SPAC shows a covered public plaza and the entry to the performing arts center.

Sensory Input

STEFFANI DRASS BELIEVES IN ARCHITECTURE WITH EMOTIONAL CONNECTION

“Integrating abundant natural light is essential to our designs, both indoors and out,” says Drass about this residence on Siesta Key. “Natural light invigorates a space and adds a sculptural quality. We carefully position windows and incorporate features like deep overhangs and pergolas to allow light in while mitigating harsh solar glare.”

When Steffani Drass imagines the homes she designs for her clients, she sees the spaces in them unfolding during a sensory journey. “This cinematic and empathic approach ensures that the buildings enhance the homeowners’ daily lives,” she says. Her desire to offer them oases that measure up to their most noteworthy moments is reinforced by the allure of Sarasota. “This beautiful paradise not only fuels my creativity; it deepens my connection between our built environments and our natural surroundings,” she explains. “I’m also captivated by the unique blend of stunning coastal and rural landscapes, and the small-town charm here.”

Drass received her Master of Architecture degree from Boston Architectural College and credits her studies for turning her into a passionate and unabashed modernist, which clearly shows in her work. “I became an avid fan of Frank Lloyd Wright and his views on organic architecture,” she notes. “The way modernism addresses human needs while fostering a dialogue with the environment resonates with me and is the foundation of our design philosophy here at TROP.”

The Sarasota School style also influenced the thinking she put forth in her thesis. “I investigated how to create a net-zero energy community in a sub-tropical climate,” she explains. “The modifications to the existing architecture included blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, a hallmark of the Sarasota School.”

These precepts have only strengthened with time. “Over the past two decades, my path has been profoundly influenced by an emphasis on sustainability and biophilic design,” says Drass. “Particularly in coastal areas, the challenges of resiliency have become paramount, necessitating designs that far exceed mere compliance with flood elevation and wind mitigation standards.”

Internally, her level of concern for the way the buildings she designs makes an impact on the environment seamlessly coexists with a profound consideration for how her architecture affects her clients’ lives. Describing how she begins to identify their wants and needs, she says, “This process is highly intuitive. I closely observe their emotional reactions to various ideas, which often provide deeper insights than words alone.”

Drass understands that there is a significant investment involved in creating a house, not just on her end but from a homeowner’s perspective, as well. “The emotional landscape is intricate because of the strong connections people have with their homes,” she explains. “Navigating these requires great sensitivity.” The reward for paying such close attention shows itself during the final reveal: “I cherish the moments when clients first step into their completed homes. Their initial reaction and ongoing appreciation reaffirm my passion for residential architecture and serves as a validation of the journey we’ve navigated together. Essentially, our clients allow us to be artists.” troparchitecture.com

text SAXON HENRY design photography RYAN GAMMA

lEFT: Steffani Drass is the founder and lead architect of TROP Architecture, which opened in Sarasota in 2017.

This home on Siesta Key illustrates how thoughtfully conceived architecture is beautifully embraced by nature. “My passion for modernism blossomed during my studies,” says Drass. “I was drawn to its focus on purity of form and function, along with its seamless integration with nature. These principles inform our aesthetic choices and reinforce the notion that architecture can enrich lives while respecting the natural world.”

above: “We aim to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces,” says Drass regarding this Siesta Key residence. “We do this to ultimately cultivate a sense of peace.”

right: “A truly successful project finds harmony with its natural topography and our subtropical context,” says Drass of this Bird Key residence. “We optimize site potential and maximize the use of renewable energy in all of our projects.”

LOCAL FLAVOR

THE PRINCIPLES OF THE SARASOTA SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE INFORM THE DESIGN OF A LIDO SHORES HOME BY HIVE ARCHITECTS

right: Steep overhangs and rotating screens are among the Sarasota School of Architecture-inspired design touches that are common to the home. “The screens interpret the shading elements on many of the homes of the original architects,” says architect Joe Kelly. “Louvered panels were installed in front of windows to provide shade from the harsh Florida sun. We reinterpreted this passive cooling concept with rotating screens.”

“As architects, we constantly push the boundaries of the materials and technology available when we design,” says Gwen Leroy-Kelly. “Keeping forms simple and light is a challenging proposition when dealing with air-conditioning and ducting, which can often result in heavy floor and roof planes that are out of scale and uncharacteristic of the Sarasota School of Architecture.”

When a young couple in Sarasota called on Joe Kelly and Gwen Leroy-Kelly of Hive Architects to design a residence for them, they had two specific requests: design a structure that’s attuned to its neighborhood and create a place to call home for multiple years to come.

“Because the house is located in Lido Shores, a mid-century style was the way to go,” says Joe. “Their second request meant creating a building that incorporates all of those midcentury concepts while adapting to today’s new technology and ways of living.” The Kellys refer to the 2,800-square-foot outcome as a “modern interpretation of the Sarasota School of Architecture,” a vernacular they have built a career on.

“We admire the simplicity of the Sarasota School designs and strive for this in our work,” says Gwen. “One of the main ideas we derived from the style was to divide the house into pavilions. In the case of the guest wing and study pavilion, the interior glass volume allows daylight to filter into the interior spaces, further enhancing the indoor/outdoor connection.” This portion of the home is set within a larger volume to create an inner layer of shade from the roof overhang, which allows for exterior circulation and space for the operable screens to turn for privacy and light control.

Hive Architects also conceived the residence’s interior design and delivered spaces that reveal a hallmark of the firm’s philosophy: creating rooms that are resolutely compatible with the architecture rather than merely selecting finishes and arranging furniture in a building shell.

right: “The bright-colored entry door is another homage to mid-century modern architecture,” says Joe. “Orange symbolizes optimism and happiness, which was very appropriate given the owners’ convivial and social nature.”

above: “The metals inside the home were painted or selected in darker tones to add warmth,” says Joe. “The physical and perceived qualities combined—like color, texture, juxtaposition, proportion, and composition—must be considered to create an overall cohesive and balanced aesthetic.”

left: “The selection of the overall structural system in steel provides the strength required to sustain hurricane-force winds,” says Gwen. “This process was challenging because we were creating a house inspired by the neighborhood’s historical and architectural reputation while respecting modern-day conditions.”

above: About the architects’ inspiration for this delineated feature, Gwen says, “A fixed overhead screen is used on Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House, the first structure built on Lido Shores and likely the most famous mid-century building.”

“We always conceive our projects as a whole, which includes regarding our clients’ physical and emotional experience in each space,” says Joe. “In this case, we selected a balance of light and dark tones to contribute to the harmonious aesthetic we knew they wanted.”

The interiors’ sophisticated black and white interplay results from the fact that the beams and columns, each one integral to the steel structural system, were left exposed and covered in a resilient coating that won’t degrade in Florida’s salty coastal air. Joe and Gwen designed these features to be slim and proportional to the size of the structure, which created a wonderful sense of balance and symmetry. Because the house is located on an interior lot that doesn’t offer water views, the Kellys established focal points with the pool and the landscaping beyond it. “This was paramount to creating an indoor/outdoor relationship,” says Gwen. “On cooler days, passive cross-ventilation is achieved by opening the sliding glass doors located on the opposite sides of the building.”

The site location, the lack of surrounding natural features, and respecting the neighborhood’s architectural identity were challenges they embraced, as was ensuring they provided the homeowners with a residence that was satisfying to them. “This structure is one of our favorite projects because of its style as well for how it functions for our clients and their daily lives,” says Joe. “Design is one thing, but a building has to functionally satisfy the people who live in it.” hivearchitects.com

GREEN CONNECTION

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT MICHAEL GILKEY’S AWARD-WINNING GARDENS ARE ALL ABOUT ESTABLISHING EMOTIONAL ENGAGEMENT

KELLEY MARCELLUS

The interior design firm behind the home ensured the outdoor furnishings complemented the hardscape created by the landscape architecture team.

ABOVE: Palms were placed at an angle to make them appear original to the property, creating a meandering path to the beach.

ABOVE: For this home on Siesta Key, landscape architect Michael Gilkey came up with a natural garden aesthetic using native plants and materials to create the feeling that the plantings had always been there—albeit with undulating paths that lead to the water.

PHOTOS BY GREG WILSON

For Michael Gilkey, Jr., great garden design isn’t born from a single idea. In fact, the second-generation, Sarasota-based landscape architect believes in the power of interaction so much that he’s built his business on it.

“I like information,” he says. “The more variables there are, the more questions I ask.”

This approach is a key part of his foundation. Gilkey studied landscape architecture at the University of Florida, where he graduated at the top of his class. After school, he entertained

right: “My two favorite times on a project are the start and the finish,” says landscape architect Michael Gilkey, Jr. “Everything in between is just work.”

left: A fountain was installed on this side of the property to esure every area of the outdoor grounds featured a visual element.

right: “I spent a lot of time thinking about circulation and destination when designing this garden,” says Gilkey about this Sarasota home’s landscaping, much of which was planned around a large oak tree that was original to the property.

offers from large, national firms and thought he’d likely begin his career in the design offices of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. His father, an established commercial and residential landscape architect with a thriving business, had different ideas.

“He said, ‘I want you to work for me,’” recalls Gilkey. “I told him I’d come to work for the family business once I had some experience under my belt, but he wouldn’t have it. He said, ‘I don’t want anyone to ruin you.’”

The idea of an organization like Disney ruining the young professional’s career was hard to grasp at the time, but 25 years later, Gilkey realizes his father was right: “My education gave me the tools, but it was my father’s mentorship and tutelage that showed me how to use them.”

Today, Gilkey is the owner and principal of that family firm, which employs 40 people, as well as its own maintenance and installation crews. “I know that last part is a bit unusual for a design firm, but it gives

left: One of this garden’s eight undulating paths leads to a somewhat hidden bocce court, the homeowners’ favorite spot.

us invaluable insight,” he says. “Florida has a wonderful growing climate, but you must pay attention to the rules of horticulture.”

At the company, all new projects begin the same way. Gilkey gathers all the parties involved—from the homeowners and their designers to his architects and crew—and sits at the meeting with a sheet of tracing paper and a site plan. As the conversation unfolds, he asks questions and sketches. “That’s when the magic happens,” he says. “We may have no idea where we’re going at first, but by the end, a clear direction has been set.”

While the firm isn’t known for any particular style, all its gardens are defined by their visual appeal, thoughtful layouts, and human interaction. “My overarching philosophy is purposeful

right: Outside the residence’s primary bedroom is a sculpture garden with a labyrinth path surrounded by Schilling’s dwarf holly hedges.

design,” says Gilkey. “If the emotion of a space hasn’t been attended to, the homeowner’s reaction to it is not going to be great. We make sure to get there by asking questions.”

That emotional questionnaire informs everything about a project: what types of plants to use and where, what water features to incorporate, what extras (bocce court or sculpture garden?) are appropriate. It’s an approach that’s served him well. Gilkey’s clientele spans all over the Gulf Coast and Tampa Bay region, and the firm’s accolades include a 2020 Frederick B. Stresau Award from the Florida chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, the state’s top prize for landscape professionals.

While the future is anyone’s guess, Gilkey is certain staying true to his approach will inevitably lead to more success. “I’m always thinking about things in the long term,” he says. “I want to know what my designs can handle and how they impact the local ecosystem. After all, Florida is my home too.” magilkey.com

above: For the gardens in this 1900s Sarasota estate, Gilkey incorporated a diverse selection of plants, both native and exotic, that were commonly used during the time the property was built.

below: Native oolite imparted the ideal texture around the pool.

“Many of the original trees on this property were at the end of their 60- to 100-year lifespans,” says Gilkey. “Adding those back was part of the romance of this site.”

Fit for Royalty

THE KING’S LODGE AT THE CONNAUGHT COMBINES THE ARTISANAL HERITAGE OF DIVERSE CULTURES WITH THE STORIED LONDON HOTEL’S TRADITION OF IMPECCABLE LUXURY

The Connaught, the storied London hotel that has housed dignitaries and A-listers since 1897, has a long tradition of residential luxury through elegant design. Though the hotel is as classically British as they come, it also celebrates the heritage and craftsmanship of cultures around the globe through its partnership with Turquoise Mountain, the foundation founded by King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) to support artisans in the Levant, Afghanistan, Myanmar, and India.

The collaboration began in 2006, the year of Turquoise Mountain’s inception. The Connaught’s legacy designer, Guy Oliver, became volunteer creative director of Turquoise Mountain just as he was embarking on a major restoration of the hotel. Marrying both efforts, Oliver created The Prince’s Lodge, an apartment-style suite inspired by the nineteenthcentury Peacock Palace in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Following the success of The Prince’s Lodge comes The King’s Lodge, the newest iteration of the collaboration between the hotel and the king’s charity. The newly unveiled King’s Lodge is an exceptional suite on the fifth floor of The Connaught that showcases elements of style

above: The King’s Lodge’s intricate architectural woodwork was created by Syrian artisans, many refugees from their war-torn nation, in Jordan. Carved marble panels and mirrored glass insets were crafted in India.

right: The textiles featuring zigzag patterns were inspired by a chevron design in old Mughal columns. Carpets from Lahore, Pakistan, and Mughal textiles from the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha provide splashes of color.

text DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

from the artisanal traditions of India, Myanmar, Jordan, and Afghanistan. Artisans from all these regions have been commissioned to create woodwork, textiles including exquisite hand-woven carpets, carved marble panels, and more.

According to Thalia Kennedy, Turquoise Mountain’s creative director, “The King’s Lodge has brought together over 100 master artisans... to create and celebrate the finest craftsmanship and heritage design. Thanks to commissions like this suite, artisan communities and these important traditions continue to thrive today.”

Though various cultures are represented, the one-bedroom suite’s design signature is seamless. A grand gesture of Mughal style, the suite opens onto a sitting area fit for royalty, with jewel-toned velvet and textured fabrics, portrait art depicting richly costumed personalities, and window seats overlooking the streets of Mayfair. The walnut jali fretwork featured on screens throughout the suite has been created by woodworkers from Afghanistan, while the marble carvings with lily motifs are the work of stone carvers from Makrana, widely considered among the best in the world.

The idea behind the suite was twofold: first, to transport guests to parts of the world that have a rich artistic heritage but are largely at-risk; and second, to benefit these communities by providing work and the opportunity for creative expression. A portion of the proceeds from every stay at The King’s Lodge and The Prince’s Lodge is contributed to Turquoise Mountain, ensuring these traditional arts and craftsmanship survive for generations to come. the-connaught.co.uk

above: The bath is reminiscent of a maharani’s palace, with Mughal arches and intricate carved stone. It is the ideal spot for a luxuriant bathing ritual.

The one-bedroom suite is based on the Mughal design tradition. Walnut jali fretwork is a repeating element that both separates and connects spaces like this cozy window seat overlooking Mayfair.

left: The suite’s four-poster bed is bespoke, with patterns and carvings conceived specially for the room. Many of the fabrics in the suite are the work of weavers from Myanmar.

LAKEWOOD RANCH, A MASTER-PLANNED community near Sarasota and Bradenton, is ideal for homeowners who want large estates located within driving distance to city-centric culture, dining, and shopping. And that’s exactly what a couple was looking for when they purchased a 4,000-square-foot house built by Stock Luxury Homes and designed by Lisa Guild of LMG Design Consulting.

Together with two of her associates, Casey O’Brien and Amanda Bugar, and in collaboration with Stock’s Pizzazz Interiors, Guild set out to deliver an au courant four-bedroom home meant to be shared with family and friends.

Stylish Serenity

A SEASONED DESIGNER DELIVERS SUBTLE ELEGANCE IN A NEW BUILD IN LAKEWOOD RANCH

interior design LISA GUILD, CASEY O’BRIEN & AMANDA BUGAR, LMG DESIGN CONSULTING, NAPLES, FL

builder STOCK DEVELOPMENT, NAPLES, FL

text KELLEY MARCELLUS

photography AMY VISCHIO, NAPLES, FL

right: An accent wall in a shade of pink-tinged taupe defines the dining room, which features an ovalshaped white lacquer table surrounded by velvet-upholstered chairs. The burnished gold chandelier by Modern Forms and graphic window treatments with Pindler Fabrics invite patterns into the room. The abstract art echoes the home’s chosen neutral palette.

Round mirrors in the foyer introduce the gold shade that was chosen as an accent throughout the entire residence.

First up: color. “We decided on a neutral palette that juxtaposes the masculine with the feminine,” says Guild. “This helped us come up with a design strategy in which furnishings and finishes at eye level or lower were kept subdued and then get more decorative the higher they go.”

Case in point: the flooring. The white porcelain tile used throughout the home goes easy on the veining and proved to be a low-maintenance option for a home that frequently hosts large and small gatherings. Neutral (from charcoal to dove white) was the way to go with the rest of the furnishings, while accents turn up the volume on color with oversized abstract artwork on the walls, and golden accessories in the form of chandeliers, mirrors, pendants, and frames. “Nothing is too bright, garish, or in any way overwhelming,” says O’Brien, LMG’s resident digital 3D modeling expert.

Because the home’s floor plan is open, the designers employed paint to help anchor and delineate the different spaces. As such, an accent wall in taupe defines the dining room. “It’s a beautiful tone that has an undercurrent of pink,” says Guild. “It’s one of those colors that everyone looks better in.” The shade also

left: In the kitchen, a custom-designed hood nestles into the white cabinetry above a subway-tile backsplash and mitered quartz countertops. The velvet-upholstered stools pick up the taupe shade used in the dining room, while the abstract art ties together all the colors used in this space.

right: Texture is prominent in the breakfast nook with bouclé dining chairs, an ebony pedestal table, brown velvet curtains, and a golden fringe chandelier by Savoy House.

below: In the family room, the design team paired sculptural lounge chairs by Hooker and a sofa by Burton James with a marbletopped, reeded ebony console by Uttermost.

The guest bedrooms in the residence were appointed with all the comforts of a five-star hotel. Furnishings in this one include a bed by Universal Furniture, a mirror by Uttermost, alabaster bedside tables by Fairfield, and a chandelier by Savoy House.

lends an air of femininity to the dining space, which houses an oval white lacquer table surrounded by chairs upholstered in brown velvet.

As gender vibes go, the living room leans into the masculine with sculptural lounge chairs and a reeded ebony console table. The dark-and-light approach to tones continues in the kitchen with all-white cabinetry, light gray stone surfaces, and gold detailing (on the drawer pulls, chandeliers, and island stools). The same is true of the bedrooms, which Guild says she approached with five-star resorts in mind. “One of the things I’ve learned is that when you have a home in Florida, people will come visit you,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to have well-equipped guest spaces for them.” With that in mind, the design team crafted the bedrooms with ample storage for suitcases and plenty of surface space for lifestyle musts. In the primary suite, which opens to the

right: Warm tones and lush textures bring a romantic vibe to the primary bedroom, where fabrics include velvet, silk, and fur. The room is crowned with a star-inspired chandelier by Modern Forms.

below: The designers sought to create an individual experience in the primary bedroom with this cozy reading nook.

outdoors, a cozy reading nook epitomizes the notion of me-time. “Bedrooms are all about individual experiences,” says Guild. “That’s what makes them personal.”

Outside in the patio, the neutrals that define the indoor spaces also work effortlessly here. “We wanted a connection between interior and exterior both in tone and in vibe,” says Guild, referencing the area’s dark sculptural elements, stone lanai floor, and black and gray furniture.

“Our overall approach with this home was to carve out individual spaces and infuse them with personality,” says Guild. “It’s not just about selecting pretty things. Our goal is always to ensure that what we are providing is comfortable and long-lasting, and that we are showcasing each space in the most positive and aesthetically pleasing way.”

above: Black and gray shades dominate the palette of the outdoor loggia, an alfresco living room complete with a fireplace, TV, and abstract artworks.

“We decided on a neutral palette that juxtaposes the masculine with the feminine,” says interior designer Lisa Guild. “This helped us come up with a design strategy in which furnishings and finishes at eye level or lower were kept subdued and then get more decorative the higher they go.”

below: The design goal for the patio spaces was to mirror the neutral approach employed inside the house.

SOURCES

DINING ROOM

Table and chairs – Sunpan, sunpan.com

Buffet – Worlds Away, worldsaway.com

Artwork – Sagebrook Home, sagebrookhome.com

Lamps – Revelation, Uttermost, uttermost.com

Chandelier – Modern Forms, build.com

Drapery – Pindler Fabrics, pindler.com

Area rug – Surya, suryarugs.com

FOYER

Console, ottoman, and lamp – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Gold mirrors and vases – Sagebrook Home, sagebrookhome.com

KITCHEN AND BREAKFAST NOOK

Cabinetry, island, and backsplash – Stock Development, Naples, FL

Stools – Interlude Home, interludehome.com

Pendant lighting – Hinkley Lighting, hinkley.com

Round table and chairs – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Chandelier – Savoy House, build.com

FAMILY ROOM

Sofa – Burton James, burtonjames.com

Club chairs and side table – Hooker Furniture, hookerfurniture.com

Cocktail table – Sunpan, sunpan.com

Console – Uttermost, uttermost.com

Sconces – Hudson Valley, hvlgroup.com

GUEST BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – Universal Furniture, universalfurniture.com

Bedside tables – Fairfield, fairfieldchair.com

Lamps, mirror, and artwork – Uttermost, uttermost.com

Chandelier – Savoy House, build.com

Area rug – Surya, suryarugs.com

RRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – Sunpan, sunpan.com

Bedside and accent tables – Revelation, Uttermost, uttermost.com

Lamps – Regina Andrew, reginaandrew.com

Artwork above bed – Sagebrook Home, sagebrookhome.com

Chandelier – Modern Forms, build.com

Club chair – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Artwork – Left Bank Art, leftbankart.com

LOGGIA

Seating, armchairs, and accent chairs – Sunset West, sunsetwest.com

Pillow fabric – Elaine Smith Pillows, elainesmithpillows.com

Dining and cocktail table – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Accent and hightop tables, chairs, and stools – Sunset West, sunsetwest.com

Artwork – Left Bank Art, leftbankart.com

Fireplace designed by LMG Design Consulting, Naples, FL, and fabricated by Stock Custom Homes, Naples, FL

THROUGHOUT

Accessories – International Design Source, Naples, FL

RADICAL REVAMP

A MASSIVE ESTATE

IN LIDO SHORES IS GIVEN NEW LIFE AS A MASTERPIECE OF CONTEMPORARY

DESIGN

interior design ANNE FOLSOM SMITH & FABIOLA SOFTAS, ANNE FOLSOM SMITH INTERIOR DESIGN, SARASOTA, FL

interior architecture TOA GROUP, SARASOTA, FL

exterior architecture ROBERT ROKOP, SARASOTA, FL

builder FRIELER CONSTRUCTION, SARASOTA, FL

landscape architecture MICHAEL GILKEY, SARASOTA, FL

text MALLORY JACOBSON

photography RYAN GAMMA, SARASOTA, FL

above: A five-bedroom main house and a one-bedroom guest cottage make up this Lido Shores estate, which backs up to a stretch of the New Pass Inlet.

left: To achieve the warm, serene feel that was requested by her clients, interior designer Anne Folsom Smith focused on a neutral color scheme of grays, blues, and beiges. The sofa was sourced from Century Furniture and the cocktail table was custom designed by Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design and fabricated by David W. Sutton Woodworking.

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT THIS 15,000-SQUARE-FOOT marvel is situated in Lido Shores, or that the designer behind the project was Anne Folsom Smith. For one, the neighborhood has deep ties to the architectural beginnings of Sarasota—more specifically, it is comprised of a colony of waterfront homes that were first developed in the 1940s by the esteemed architects who created the style of regional modernism known as the Sarasota School of Architecture. As for Smith, she is a longtime Sarasota resident who has been heralded for her work in town and beyond for more than 40 years and also happens to be married to Frank Folsom Smith, one of those venerated architects of Sarasota School renown.

When Smith established her interior design studio in Sarasota in 1983, the Gulf Coast town was, as the designer puts it, “a mecca for Midwesterners who wintered here.” Over the four decades

above: “The kitchen design style has an open, convivial spirit for entertaining family and friends,” says Smith. “It serves as the hub between the living room and family room.”

The light fixtures above the island are from Sarasota’s Light Up Your Life and the barstools are by Hickory White.

To separate the living room and kitchen, the designers envisioned an illuminated

area that was executed by Light Up Your Life. With a custom glass fixture that cascades down from the ceiling, it makes a major visual impact.

below: On the first floor, the family room is a hideaway for lounging. The design team opted for a U-shaped sofa from Century Furniture and added a custom console with cabinetry fabricated by David W. Sutton Woodworking.

left:

bar

left: Wicked Smart Homes’ CinemaTech orchestrated the installation of modern seating in the residence’s state-of-the-art movie theater.

above: One of Smith’s favorite elements in the home is the spiral staircase, which she calls an engineering miracle because it connects at the top and bottom without a middle landing. Constructed from stainless steel with solid wood treads, it was conceptualized by the designer and installed by Rail-Tek.

A custom patterned sectional from Roche Bobois infuses the game room with a social feel, while the oval-shaped bar area offers guests a seat—specifically, a chic leather-based seat. The billiards table from Clearwater’s Mitchell Pool Tables doubles as a sculptural art piece.

that she has operated her firm, the area has evolved, and so has the designer. “I started out with a design style that leaned more traditional with a sense of coastal sophistication to match my surroundings,” she says, “but I’ve certainly grown to embrace a more modern approach, too.”

Therefore, when called on to orchestrate a contemporary revamp of this sprawling home, which houses five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms, as well as a separate onebedroom, one-bathroom guest cottage, she was eager to take the helm. The homeowners, whose primary residence is in the Northeast, were smitten with the property upon their first visit. “They were enamored with the expansive view of the New Pass Inlet, which affords deep water

access for boating,” says Smith. At the same time, the home is positioned to offer total privacy, and the lush foliage makes the backyard feel more tranquil and remote.

Or iginally, the structure was a Mediterranean-style house with an overwhelming number of arches. “We were asked to transform it into a contemporary family vacation home conducive to indoor-outdoor living, which involved incorporating contemporary architectural details and materials,” says the designer. “In fact, the renovations were so extensive that the first level floor had to be raised to meet the current floodplain requirements.”

Working alongside interior architect Ty Thacker of TOA Group (a longtime collaborator), Smith’s team, led by senior designer Fabiola Softas, opened up the kitchen, family room, and formal living

left: In the primary bedroom, a custom bed surround and coordinating side tables were fabricated by David W.

or simply enjoying the peaceful water view.

below: A Hammer Collections bench

room, allowing for a natural flow between the spaces. In keeping with a wholly contemporary feel, the home adheres to a color palette of neutral yet warm shades, including grays, blues, and beiges.

David W. Sutton Woodworking handled the replacement of the millwork in the house, opting for moldings and ceiling designs that align with the overall aesthetic. A variety of textures were incorporated—mostly in the form of light woods, mixed metals, and patterned decorative pillows and upholstery—to enhance the subdued tones, adding depth and a sense of coziness throughout the house.

To promote an environment conducive to gatherings with family and friends, Smith focused on softening the linear features throughout the home. She also chose curved back club chairs

Sutton Woodworking. Club chairs by Hickory White are arranged to form the ideal nook for reading

upholstered in metallic leather is the centerpiece of the primary bathroom, which features built-ins by Campbell Cabinetry Designs in Sarasota.

upholstered in a deep sapphire hue to make an impact in the otherwise achromatic setting. Beyond the living room—and past the illuminated bar area, which was custom designed to create a visual separation—is the kitchen, which is anchored by an oversized quartz and granite island that comfortably seats 12 people at counter height. For the family, it is a true hub for entertaining, along with the second-floor game room and state-of-the-art movie theater.

“With our talented team and the local artisans and craftsmen we hired, we were able to go beyond the basics to conjure a transformative result,” says Smith. “This residence truly reflects the personality of its owners as it sets itself apart from the norm.”

Terraces were added to the back of the house to create even more vignettes for entertaining. Verdant plantings including tropical trees enhance the coastal locale.

below: Seating by Dedon frames a fire pit table while sweeping vistas of the New Pass Inlet provide the ideal backdrop.

SOURCES

LIVING ROOM

Sofa grouping – Century Furniture, Hickory, NC

Club chairs – Hickory White, Hickory, NC

Cocktail table – David Sutton Woodworking, Palmetto, FL, and European Marble, Sarasota, FL

Side tables – Adriana Hoyos, Miami, FL

Table lamps – John-Richard, john-richard.com

Column sconces – Light Up Your Life, Sarasota, FL

Cabinetry – Campbell Cabinetry Designs, Sarasota, FL

Island – European Marble, Sarasota, FL

Lighting – Light Up Your Life, Sarasota, FL

Stools – Hickory White, Hickory, NC

BAR AREA

Cabinetry designed by Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Campbell Cabinetry Designs, Sarasota, FL

chandelier and indirect light – Light Up Your Life, Sarasota, FL

Sofa seating – Century Furniture, Hickory, N.C.

Sofa back cabinetry – David Sutton Woodworking, Palmetto, FL

Cocktail table – Belt Atelier, Hollywood, FL

GAME AND MEDIA ROOM

Cabinetry – David Sutton Woodworking, Palmetto, FL

KITCHEN

Glass

FAMILY ROOM

right:

Sofa

Lighting – Light Up Your

Theater seating – CinemaTech, Wicked Smart Homes, Sarasota, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and side tables – David Sutton

Bench

FL

Chandelier

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Cabinetry – Campbell Cabinetry

Pendant lighting – Light Up Your Life, Sarasota, FL

Bench – Hammer Collections, Los Angeles, CA

EXTERIOR

Seating and lounges – Dedon, Miami, FL, and Pavilion, Miami Gardens, FL

Pool

THROUGHOUT

Millwork – David Sutton Woodworking, Palmetto, FL, and Campbell

Cabinetry Designs, Sarasota, FL

Stairway designed by Anne Folsom Smith Interior Design, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Rail-Tek, Sarasota, FL

Tub, sinks, and faucets – The Plumbing Place, Sarasota, FL

Bar stools – Campaniello, New York, NY

grouping – Roche Bobois, Miami, FL

Billiards table – Mitchell Pool Tables, Clearwater, FL

Life, Sarasota, FL

Woodworking, Palmetto,

– Hammer Collections, Los Angeles, CA

Club chairs and ottoman – Hickory White, Hickory, NC

and sconces – Light Up Your Life, Sarasota, FL

Designs, Sarasota, FL

Firepit – Concrete by Design, Sarasota, FL

designed and fabricated by Coast to Coast Pools, Sarasota, FL

Coastal Color

A VACATION HOME IN SARASOTA’S OYSTER BAY ESTATES COMMUNITY TELLS MUCH OF ITS STORY THROUGH JEWELED SHADES OF TEAL

FL

builder ALLEGRA HOMES, SARASOTA, FL

text JEANNE DELATHOUDER

photography AMY LAMB, NATIVEHOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY, NASHVILLE, TN

A textural pastiche encompasses the living area with a streamlined floor-to-ceiling wall treatment, a vintage marble console paired with an Arteriors oxidized iron mirror, and a dramatically trimmed Noir Desdemona bleached elm sideboard. Inspired by the homeowners’ art collection, the color palette combines Bernhardt’s earthy neutral seating pieces, a sandy, waved-tile fireplace surround, and deep green accents.

interior design TRACEE MURPHY & CASEY LIPTAK, TRADE MARK INTERIORS, SARASOTA,

left: The entrance foyer immediately connects the interior hues to the lush landscape beyond. The open staircase creates a dynamic focal point backdropped by Phillip Jeffries’ Haiku Emerald Refresh grasscloth wallcovering with floral blooms. A Currey & Company tiered rattan Ibiza chandelier and Bernhardt’s sculptural Kaori cocktail table amplify the drama.

right: The wife’s home office, drenched in Sherwin-Williams’ Rookwood Blue Green shade, is tucked away in the front of the house. A sculptural wood Dune desk from Rowe commands the space with a custom Vanguard Owen Plain desk chair upholstered in Lee Jofa’s Arioso fabric. Cabinetry designed by Trade Mark Interiors and an Arteriors chandelier create a refined bespoke elegance.

AN EXTENSIVE HOUSE-HUNTING SEARCH quickly escalated into a sale when Atlanta couple Gail and Tom Flanigan set foot in Sarasota’s Oyster Bay Estates. Dubbed “West of Trail”— referring to its location west of Tamiami Trail—the historic community boasts elegant homes and cherished locales amid a backdrop of coastal scenery. Drawn to the area’s privacy and lush greenery, the couple was delighted to discover its mix of old and new construction and its population of longterm residents and newcomers.

“On this new life adventure we wanted to be in an established neighborhood close to shops and restaurants,” says Gail. “Having lived in Atlanta for over 30 years, we were immediately attracted to Sarasota’s natural beauty and beaches. We love that we can get almost anywhere in 15 minutes, and that everyone we’ve met has been so warm and welcoming.”

After checking out various sites, the couple settled on a 5,188-square-foot house that was a lready being built by Allegra Homes and designed by Trade Mark Interiors. Intended as a vacation getaway, the model afforded them efficient yet comfortable spaces for extended family and the couple’s two grown children, who love to visit frequently. Forgoing a formal dining room and living room, the open floor plan includes public spaces and two primary bedrooms on the main level. With two additional bedrooms, bathrooms, and a bonus TV room on the second level, privacy is plentiful and there are multiple quiet areas for relaxing.

“Our color story was based on coastal jewel tones, which we decided to amp up for this family

left: The kitchen’s Origami Alta White marble mosaic backsplash from Artistic Tile brings sheen and texture to the range wall. Fanwave upholstery from S. Harris adorns the counter stool chair backs, mirroring the tile design and Arteriors globe pendants with polished nickel rods. In the back, an Uttermost pendant and Lunada Bay Tile’s champagne glass tiles dress up the mudroom.

A dining space connects to the kitchen, creating a nook for casual family meals. Old Biscayne Design’s weathered mocha dining table, a ribbed emerald and gold wood-veneer Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, a vintage-inspired Currey & Company chandelier, and a Surya rug bring bold textural layers.

home,” says Tracee Murphy, CEO and principal designer at Trade Mark Interiors, who collaborated with her senior designer, Casey Liptak, on the project. “As we targeted a complex and dynamic color palette that would speak to the coastal allure of Sarasota, we focused on a dramatic use of teal hues for impact. The overall design style induces feelings of warmth, intimacy, and comfort, with the spa-like tranquility of watery environments.”

Th rough their design process, the TMI team identified areas to enhance with detailing, including the fireplace area’s tile and wallcovering, the wall trim in the main living space, a dining room serving niche enhanced with high-density grass cloth, and the staircase’s luxurious

A custom four-poster bed by Old Biscayne Designs painted in Sherwin-Williams’ vibrant Green Bay shade and a teal ceiling define the primary bedroom’s rich color palette. Starburst Kalinda sconces from Made Goods and a plush Surya rug swirling in hues of teal, sage, amber, charcoal, and beige elevate the room’s aesthetic.

“As we targeted a complex and dynamic color palette that would speak to the coastal allure of Sarasota, we focused on a dramatic use of ocean hues for impact,” says interior designer Tracee Murphy.

“The overall design style induces feelings of warmth, intimacy, and comfort, with the spa-like tranquility of watery environments.”

mural wallcovering. For Gail’s study, they created a captivating space wrapped in deep teal and custom cabinetry to emanate a warm, soothing vibe.

“Our clients have a beautiful art collection close to their hearts,” says Liptak. “We aimed to have our color story blend harmoniously with their artwork. The home presented itself as a blank slate, allowing us to enhance every aspect through wallcoverings, paint, built-ins, and furnishings, all to bring functionality and beauty into every space.”

Since the Flanigans are avid collectors and supporters of many local artists, their new residence features two of Gail’s most treasured pieces by one of her favorite Atlanta artists, Gail Wegodsky. “Tracee and Casey knew how important these pieces were to me,” notes Gail, “so they helped me incorporate them in a way that felt like either a natural extension of the room or the central focus—like the painting over the fireplace in the living room.”

Strategizing every square inch for optimal use, the design team incorporated cozy living room furnishings for reading and entertaining within proximity of the kitchen and dining areas to create cohesiveness. A large kitchen closet transformed into a drop zone with added cabinets for storage, and comfortable

right: A channeled upholstered Skyline Manila platform bed makes a color splash with Annie Selke teal bedding and a Marie Flanigan coverlet paired with S. Harris’ Duende Ombre Evergreen roman shades. Oversized Noir Bernard accent chests provide optimal storage in a small space.

The bonus room offers a haven for family movie nights and game days with Berkeley’s streamlined blue bouclé sofa paired with a textured round cocktail table from Palecek. Gabby custom ottomans with casters invite guests to relax and put their feet up.

seating flows seamlessly from indoors to alfresco spaces for large holiday celebrations or intimate gatherings. Swivel chairs throughout—a TMI musthave—facilitate closeness and conversation.

“Tracee and Casey are skilled experts in their craft,” notes Tom. “Their creativity is unmatched, and their greatest attribute is listening deeply to reflect the client’s desire. Simply put, they made a long process easy and were a joy to work with.”

SOURCES

FOYER

Table – Chairish, chairish.com

Round mirror – Arteriors, arteriorshome.com

Chandelier – Made Goods, madegoods.com

LIVING ROOM

Sofa, chairs, sofa back, and cocktail tables – International

Design Source, Sarasota, FL

Marble side table – Arteriors, arteriorshome.com

Fireplace tile – Design Works Tile, Sarasota, FL

Drapery – Romo, romo.com

Area rug – Prosource, Sarasota, FL

OFFICE

Desk and chairs – International Design Source, Sarasota, FL

Wicker elephant table – Chairish, chairish.com

Chandelier – Arteriors, arteriorshome.com

Cabinetry designed by Trade Mark Interiors, Sarasota, FL, and fabricated by Maccs Remodeling, Sarasota, FL

Area rug – Kravet, kravet.com

KITCHEN

Backsplash – Tile Market, Sarasota, FL

above: A pair of in-pool lounge chairs from Ledge Lounger bring graceful curves to the pool’s linear form.

Cushioned chairs and a small side table invite guests to cozy up poolside.

above: An outdoor seating area features Newport barrel swivel rockers from Summer Classics upholstered with Calypso turquoise indoor/outdoor fabric from Greenhouse Fabrics. A Four Hands cast concrete Kember cocktail table adds a sleek contemporary touch.

Stools – International Design Source, Sarasota, FL

Pendant light – Arteriors, arteriorshome.com

DINING AREA

Round table – Old Biscayne Designs, oldbiscaynedesigns.com

Chairs – International Design Source, Sarasota, FL

Wallcovering – Phillip Jeffries, phillipjeffries.com

Chandelier – Currey & Company, curreyandcompany.com

Round area rug – Surya, surya.com

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Poster bed – Old Biscayne Designs, oldbiscaynedesigns.com

Bedside chests, bench, and sconces – International Design Source,

Sarasota, FL

Chandelier – Hudson Valley, hvlgroup.com

Area rug – Surya, surya.com

BONUS ROOM

Sofa and club chair – International Design Source, Sarasota, FL

Cocktail table – Palecek, palecek.com

Ottoman poufs – Gabby, gabby.com

Drink table – Uttermost, uttermost.com

Chandelier – Hudson Valley, hvlgroup.com

GUEST BEDROOM

Bed and bedside chests – International Design Source,

A covered alfresco seating area features a walnut rattan sofa from Summer Classics echoing the dark wood tones of the tray ceiling overhead. JP wall planters from The Phillips Collection bring life and color to the vignette. An adjacent dining area combines a Vanguard Tiburon table with Palecek’s Lucca chairs.

Sarasota, FL

Lamps – Visual Comfort & Co., visualcomfort.com

Area rug – Surya, surya.com

LOGGIA

Wicker sofa and chairs – Summer Classics, summerclassics.com

Cocktail table – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Dining and drink tables, and planters – International Design Source, Sarasota, FL

Chairs and lanterns – Palecek, palecek.com

Area rug – Annie Selke, annieselke.com

Pool lounges – Ledge Lounger, ledgeloungers.com

Revived and Refined

AFTER A RENOVATION, EXPANSION, AND IMAGE MAKEOVER, AN ANNA MARIA ISLAND HOME’S GREGARIOUS OWNERS HAVE REASON TO CELEBRATE

interior design JULIANNE HENDRICKSON & TONI JABAAY, HENDRICKSON INTERIORS, TAMPA, FL

interior stylist RACHEL RAHRIG, FRESHLYMINTED LIVING, TAMPA, FL

home designer BECCI MEIER SHANNON, SOMMERHOUSE CUSTOM HOME DESIGN, YULEE, FL

landscape architect JEFF GILCHRIST LANDSCAPE, BRADENTON, FL

text RIKI ALTMAN-YEE

photography CHRISTOPHER RESTREPO, PENLIGHT MEDIA, TAMPA, FL

left: The design team at Hendrickson Interiors ensured the Chippendale stairwell railings inside this Anna Maria home mirrored those on the exterior, providing a continuity of theme, as well as visual interest. The pattern reappears in the home’s back stairway and even on bunk bed railings. Woven accessories from Mainly Baskets Home add warmth and texture.

Home designer Becci Meier incorporated the dormers and circular windows on the front of the house. The residence’s porch was extended to make room for a seating area. Bronze light fixtures from Lantern and Scroll give depth to the white and gray façade.

In the living room, interior designer Julianne Hendrickson incorporated the homeowners’ previous sofa with slipper chairs from Highland House, a woven cocktail table from Made Goods, and a side table from Gabby Home. A light blue, hand-knotted rug from Serena and Lily anchors the room.

THE DESIRE TO MAKE SOMETHING truly our own is an undeniably human trait. So it went for the new owners of a 4,000-square-foot vacation home on Anna Maria Island. While the new proprietors loved the beachy essence of the residence, they felt it lacked the hosting qualities they needed to entertain family and friends like they were accustomed to. At the suggestion of their daughter, the husband and wife called on Tampa interior designers Julianne Hendrickson and Toni Jabaay to work their magic and recast the house to suit their tastes.

Once hired, Hendrickson and Jabaay suggested the addition of various decorative and functional elements to give the home’s façade more flair and ensure it was welcoming. One such enhancement was custom railings, which complemented the architect’s original plan for the structure. “They give more character to the exterior and reinforce the coastal look of the home,” says Hendrickson. After the designers and homeowners settled on an exterior color—Sherwin-Williams’ Let it Rain shade, a soothing blue with slate gray undertones—the tone for the rest of the design was set. “They wanted their home to feel cozy, but elegant,” says Hendrickson. “We went with light and bright colors that felt easy and comfortable.”

Wh ile most of the interior walls and all the trim and doors were kept neutral with Pure White (also by Sherwin-Williams), certain rooms were livened with color so the furniture, nearly all of which was

above right: The clients’ console inspired Hendrickson to choose natural fibers for the home’s interiors. “We felt a non-kitschy coastal vibe was the way to go,” says the designer. “That’s the look that served the home best.” The ruffled Coco mirror from Made Goods introduces more texture to the vignette.

right: The designers selected this unique Easton secretary desk from Oomph Home Furnishings and had it customized with lacquer to accent the shades of blue used throughout the home.

above: “We always pick a fun backdrop for the powder bathroom,” says Hendrickson about the turtle-themed wallcovering by Thibaut.

above: Lexington chairs backed with caning and a Visual Comfort chandelier wrapped in rope are among the natural material furnishings in the dining room. Above the kitchen island, the Made Goods pendants are made with shell. Progressive Cabinetry in Bradenton fabricated the cabinets and countertops.

left: A bunk bed set-up in a guest room reveals a blue stripe covering by Schumacher on the wall and a starthemed one by Sister Parish on the ceiling.

customized and ordered online, could shine. “We stayed with light blues, creams, and neutrals,” the designer explains. “And the clients like navy, so we popped a little bit of that in there as well.”

For the floors, the designers suggested the homeowners invest in richly shaded engineered French Oak planks from Wade’s Interiors in Bradenton. “They are a medium tone, which will hide things better and feel timeless,” says Hendrickson. “In the last couple of years, we’ve moved toward more of that middle tone wood color or a very dark wood, because the traditional look is really coming back.” As the home is just steps from the beach, (easy to clean) marble was selected for the back entrance so sandy, wet feet would never be an issue.

Notably, the design team incorporated custom pieces t hat give the home tailored refinement. A bespoke media stand in the family room, for example, boasts custom hardware and grass cloth inserts on the doors, nodding to the wealth of natural elements that were incorporated throughout. A built-in bench on the upstairs landing leading to the primary bedroom was created so the owners can curl up with a book, or the grandkids can sit and play.

Once the renovation was complete, it didn’t take long for the homeowners to show off the results. “Just a few months after we finished, they had all their best friends over for a big birthday celebration,” says Hendrickson. “They filled the house with people and music, and it was a big success.”

SOURCES

ENTRY

Console – Homeowners’ collection

Mirror – Made Goods, madegoods.com

Sconces – Visual Comfort, Tampa, FL

LIVING ROOM

Sofa – Homeowners’ collection

Slipper chairs – Highland House, highlandhousefurniture.com

Cocktail table – Made Goods, madegoods.com

Side table – Gabby Home, gabbyhome.com

Lamp – Visual Comfort, Tampa, FL

Desk and chair – Oomph Home, oomphhome.com

Area rug – Serena and Lily, serenaandlily.com

POWDER ROOM

Sink – Homeowners’ collection

Oval mirror – Uttermost, uttermost.com

Sconces – Coleen and Company, coleenandcompany.com

Wallcovering – Thibaut, thibautdesign.com

KITCHEN AND DINING AREA

Dining table and island stools – Homeowners’ collection

Chairs – Lexington, lexingtonfurniture.com

Pendant lighting – Made Goods, madegoods.com

Chandelier – Visual Comfort, Tampa, FL

GUEST BEDROOM

Bunk beds designed by Hendrickson Interiors, Tampa, FL, and fabricated by

Wash Family Construction, Anna Maria Island, FL

Wallcovering on walls – Schumacher, schumacher.com

Wallcovering on ceiling – Sister Parish Design, sisterparishdesign.com

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Cabinetry – Progressive Cabinetry, Bradenton, FL

Vanity stool – Homeowners’ collection

Sconces – Visual Comfort, Tampa, FL

Tile – Casale Design Source, Tampa, FL

SEATING AREA

Armchairs, ottoman, and side table – Lexington, lexingtonfurniture.com

Artwork – Trowbridge, trowbridgegallery.com

Chandelier – Currey and Company, curreyandcompany.com

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – Caitlin Wilson, caitlinwilson.com

Bedside tables – Lexington, lexingtonfurniture.com

Lamp – Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com

Area rug –Annie Selke, annieselke.com

THROUGHOUT

Builder – Wash Family Construction, Anna Maria Island, FL

Flooring and stair runner – Wade’s Interiors, Bradenton, FL

Tile – Casale Design Source, Tampa, FL

Cabinetry and countertops – Progressive Cabinetry, Bradenton, FL

Drapery – The Javorek Group, Lutz, FL

left: Neutral tones dominate in the primary bathroom, which features an eyecatching marble backsplash from Casale Design Source.

Armchairs and an ottoman by Lexington and a trio of prints from Trowbridge solidify the cozy feel of this second-floor reading nook.

Sherwin-Williams’ North Star shade contrasts beautifully with the nickel gap ceiling in this bedroom. A trimmed Lennox headboard by Caitlin Wilson, bedside tables from Lexington, a Lawrence wool area rug from Annie Selke, a Pottery Barn lamp, and layers of decorative bedding complete the space.

Property Value

A DESIGNER FULFILLS AN ANNA MARIA ISLAND COUPLE’S DREAM FOR LAID-BACK COASTAL LIVING WITH A NEW BUILD ON A LONG-OWNED PIECE OF PRIME LAND

interior design EMILY MOSS, EMILY MOSS DESIGNS, BRADENTON, FL

architecture BEACON HOME DESIGN, BRADENTON, FL

landscape architecture TERRYSCAPES, BRADENTON, FL

builder MOSS BUILDERS, HOLMES BEACH, FL

text JEANNE DELATHOUDER

photography AMY LAMB, NATIVEHOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY, NASHVILLE, TN

left: Snuggled along a canal and offering panoramic rooftop views of Tampa Bay, a couple’s Anna Maria Island dream home exudes both luxury and family-friendly comfort. The aqua exterior pairs with a stucco entryway accented with hand-pressed shells and turquoise sea glass to illuminate the dwelling’s coastal inspiration.

right: Natural light floods the entrance foyer, generating a radiant and ethereal first impression. Architectural elements, including a coffered ceiling and the stairwell’s intricate woodwork wall trim, create depth and elegance preluding the living space. Warm oak flooring and coastal hues enrich the home’s welcoming vibe.

FOR 40 YEARS, DREAMY ANNA MARIA ISLAND has manifested a precious cache of memories for homeowners Alex and Danny Curry. It all began with their first home in the area, where the couple raised their sons and welcomed hundreds of guests through the years. As their boys grew and the couple’s love of boating and familiar coastal scenery deepened, they decided the timing was right to build a new 4,000-square-foot forever home on the same land site that had made them so happy.

“We love canal life and easy access to the bay,” says Alex. “Our street sits on a dead end without any traffic, and we enjoy being within walking distance of the island’s most popular bars and restaurants. And we have a 360-degree view from our rooftop deck that looks out to the bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge connecting St. Petersburg and Sarasota.”

Headlining their must-have list, the Currys envisioned a new build embodying their strong connection to the island and their love for sharing it with others. Hence, enlisting a professional design firm with local ties proved to be the best choice. “They entrusted our design team to craft a spacious custom home with an open floor plan, thoughtful architectural details, and expansive outdoor spaces designed for gatherings,” says Emily Moss, an Anna Maria Island resident herself and founder of Emily Moss Designs. “From the rooftop deck’s panoramic vistas to the warm, inviting interiors, this home offers the perfect balance of coastal luxury and family-friendly comfort.”

From the initial architectural plans to the final interior details, Moss and her crew directed every aspect of the project, ensuring the clients’ vision materialized with precision. The fabrics, furniture,

left: The living room’s tiled fireplace displays a watercolor-esque design, bringing a fluid, artistic touch reminiscent of ocean waves. A custom work commissioned from artist Jennifer Dunn Poe and textural seagrass side tables from Universal Furniture enhance the beachy mood. Built-in storage units with glass knobs offer function and style, while comfortable seating from Four Seasons Furniture keeps the neutral palette casual yet elevated.

The kitchen emanates a chic nautical vibe, bringing ocean hues into the heart of the home. A glass-tile backsplash mixing clear tones of seafoam green and aqua backdrops a brilliant blue island that anchors the space. Natural fiber accents like rope barstools from Essentials For Living and the dining table’s linear Currey & Company rope chandelier create textural interest.

and overall interior scheme evoke relaxation and a playful attitude through the thoughtful use of color. “We sought a coastal feel, and our favorite color is blue,” says Alex. “We have a large extended family and wanted to ensure our furnishings were comfortable and easy to clean.”

Ceiling treatments and pops of personality via wallpaper and colorful tiles further contribute to the aesthetic, striking a balance between comfort and island style that aligns with the homeowners’ lifestyle. Customdesigned elements like millwork and built-in cabinetry lend character and personalization throughout. “We collaborated closely with them to fashion a design that reflected the gulf’s beauty and the vibrant spirit of island life,” says Moss. “The hallmarks of the design are a blend of calming blues, lively patterns, and a perpetual five-o’clock atmosphere.”

When visitors first step inside, they are noticeably charmed by the intentional, serene applications enveloping every corner, including the blue tile–wrapped fireplace and lofty eight-foot ceilings. When ascending

left: Rich oak flooring brings warmth to the pristine white staircase framed in full-height board-and-batten walls. Intricate detailing on the stair posts subtly nods to the coastal theme, and Serena & Lily pendants illuminate the stairwell, amplifying its grand proportions.

right: The primary bedroom’s navy and white palette embraces a nautical theme accented with rustic stained oak beams complementing the suite’s relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic. Oversized rattan pendants hang gracefully above a pair of Bernhardt nightstands.

below: Made for entertaining, the upper-level bar area bursts with color and customization, incorporating a handcrafted bar top made from cement and sea glass shards. Original artwork by Sarah Diana Fine Art complements a handmade bar piece that houses a mini fridge hidden by a custom mini barn door.

the staircase, eyes are drawn to a trio of jumbo pendants above and an unexpected handcrafted terrazzo bar on the second floor. The Currys, forever the consummate hosts, welcome more than 60 guests every Fourth of July, 50-plus partygoers on New Year’s Eve, and 10 to 15 friends and family members on random weekends. “Our pool is ideal for entertaining—it always seems to be the perfect temperature and never feels crowded,” notes Danny. “Emily made this process enjoyable with her wit and charm. Every meeting was full of laughter and she was able to turn most of our half-brained ideas into perfection.”

For Moss and her team, this project wasn’t just about designing a beautiful space: “It was about creating a home where our clients can make lasting memories with family and loved ones,” says the designer. “We couldn’t be more honored to have been part of it.”

below: Crisp white shiplap wall detailing generates a vivid, cheerful vibe in this charming guest room stylishly outfitted with a Pottery Barn bed and Crate & Barrel nightstands. Yellow ceiling beams bring sunny warmth to the space.

Sofa, club chair, and ottoman – Four Seasons, shopfourseasonsfurniture.com Wicker side table – Universal Furniture, universalfurniture.com Poufs and area rug – Surya, surya.com

Fireplace designed by Emily Moss Designs, Bradenton, FL, and fabricated by Wade’s Interiors, Bradenton, FL

KITCHEN AND DINING AREA

and island – Progressive Cabinetry, Bradenton, FL

SOURCES LIVING ROOM

Cabinetry

Backsplash – Wade’s Interiors, Bradenton, FL

Stools – Essentials for Living, essentialsforliving.com

Dining table and chairs – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Pendant light over island – Creative Co-Op, creativecoop.com

Lighting over dining table – Currey & Company, curreyandcompany.com

Area rug – Safavieh, safavieh.com

UPPER-LEVEL BAR AREA

Sofa – Four Seasons, shopfourseasonsfurniture.com

Wicker tables – Homeowners’ collection

Bar cabinetry – Progressive Cabinetry, Bradenton, FL

Artwork – Sarah Diana, Sarah Diana Fine Art, Wilmington, NC

Stairway lighting and area rug – Serena & Lily, serenaandlily.com

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – Four Hands, fourhands.com

Bedside chests – Bernhardt, bernhardt.com

Pendant lighting – Homeowners’ collection

Area rug – Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com

GUEST BEDROOM

Bed – Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com

A lavish outdoor space paves the way for effortless entertaining with a custom curved pool by Tom Sanger Pool and Spa. Shellcrete pavers contribute to the pool’s flowing form, adding a natural coastal nuance.

Bedside table – Crate and Barrel, crateandbarrel.com

Sconce – Shades of Light, shadesoflight.com

BACK EXTERIOR

Swing – Lowcountry Swing Beds, lcswingbeds.com

Pool designed and fabricated by Tom Sanger Pools and Spa, Bradenton, FL

THROUGHOUT

Flooring – Wade’s Interiors, Bradenton, FL

Millwork – Moss Builders, Holmes Beach, FL

NATURE AWARENESS

DESIGNER LAURA HONORS LEANS INTO THE EARTHY SUBTLETY OF ETHAN STEBBINS’ WABI SABI BENCH

THE TASTEMAKER: With operations in Sarasota, Tampa, and St. Petersburg, Laura Honors heads up Honors Interiors with her husband, Solomon. The firm’s expertise is creating “curated coastal vacation homes” throughout Southwest Florida.

THE OBJECT : Inspired by the woodwork of George Nakashima and the stone creations of Masahiko Seko, the Wabi Sabi bench by Ethan Stebbins is composed of a single slab of black walnut and two hollowed-out granite boulders.

IN HER WORDS: “Beautifully imperfect furniture made of natural wood and stone can be the highlight of any space,” says Honors. “I would use the Wabi Sabi bench in a home entry across from a console or at the foot of the bed in a primary suite. This is an accent that immediately elevates the look of a room.” honorsinteriorsllc.com; ethanstebbins.com

text CHRISTOPHER DAY

P RI MA RYBA TH ‘W OOD ’ DE TA IL .

HOW IS TH AT.

BY AMANDA PATELLA