VIE Magazine February 2025

A BOHEME DESIGN

Roy and Wendy Sembera are making history in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, with their charming neighborhood development of Churchill Oaks, set amid the gorgeous magnolias and centuriesold live oaks just off the Choctawhatchee Bay. Their vision for the community began around fifteen years ago, and the homes and shared spaces of the private enclave are nothing short of magnificent. As they plan for Phase II development, the Semberas and their team look forward to making Churchill Oaks even more appealing for homeowners and their guests. Their own home, featured here, is a stunning bayfront abode designed by Matt Savoie and built by Grand Bay Construction.

Photo by Steven Mangum, STM Photography

Vie is a French word meaning “life” or “way of living.” VIE magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication that focuses on human-interest stories with heart and soul. From Seattle to NYC with a concentration in the Southeast, VIE is known for its unique editorial approach—a broad spectrum of deep content with rich photography. The award-winning magazine was founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team Lisa and Gerald Burwell, owners of the specialty publishing and branding house known as The Idea Boutique®. From the finest artistically bound books to paperless digital publication and distribution, The Idea Boutique provides comprehensive publishing services to authors and organizations. Its team of creative professionals delivers a complete publishing experience—all that’s needed is your vision.

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114 LOGAN LANE, SUITE 4 SANTA ROSA BEACH, FLORIDA 32459

THE

AND

IN

FEATURE

20 A Crowning Jewel on the Bay: When a House Becomes a Home

LA MAISON 19

30 Petite pause: Read McKendree x Four Seasons Boston

32 Life Is But a Dream: Surrealism Is Alive and Well in This London Abode

38 The Nature of Alys: A New Lifestyle Emerges at The Silva

42 Petite pause: Chancey Design in Alys Beach

44 Rising to New Heights: Designing Spaces with Purpose and Vision

INTROSPECTIONS 53

54 The House That Built Me

59 L’intermission: Historic Luxury in Downtown Manhattan

VOYAGER 61

62 Timeless Indian Tradition: A Courtyard House Brought to Life

70 Historic Past, Bright Future: Your 2025 Charleston Travel Guide

78 Palm Beach Mod: Palm House Hits the Scene

85 L’intermission: We All Swoon for EyeSwoon

86 Charleston’s Most Charming New Stays

92 Stay in Rockstar Style: Kravitz Design x SLS South Beach

97 Petite pause: Summer Jensen of Hawk & Co.

98 Retrofitting Suburbia: Ellen Dunham-Jones and June Williamson Receive the Seaside Prize

102 Underwater Treasures: Florida’s Most Unique Museum

107 L’intermission: Modern Elegance in Boston

C’EST LA VIE CURATED COLLECTION 108

LA SCÈNE 116

THE LAST WORD 121

128 Petite pause: Nantucket Charm Captured by Read McKendree

Rendering courtesy of Beemok Hospitality Collection

COOPER IS SET TO BE THE HOTTEST NEW HOTEL

DINING DESTINATION

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA. THIS RENDERING OF THE ROOFTOP RESTAURANT MAKES US EVEN MORE EXCITED ABOUT THE FOOD AND THE PANORAMIC VIEWS!

CREATIVE TEAM

CEO/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

FOUNDER / PUBLISHER

GERALD BURWELL Gerald@VIEmagazine.com

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

JORDAN STAGGS Jordan@VIEmagazine.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

HAILEY BETHKE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MEGHAN RYAN ASBURY, KELLY CURRY, SARAH FREEMAN, ANTHEA GERRIE, MYLES MELLOR, CAROLYN O’NEIL, SUZANNE POLLAK, COLLEEN SACHS, XENIA TALIOTIS

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

ART DIRECTOR

JACK KIRKENDALL Jack@VIEmagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

ANNA SIMPSON HANNAH VERMILLION

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

LAUREN ATHALIA, ILANA BESSLER, HUNTER BURGTORF, SAMEER CHAWDA, STEWART COOK, RENE DYHR, CHRIS F., SONJA FLEMMING, SARA FREE, JACK GARDNER, JEREMY HARWELL, BENJAMIN HERSHEY, SYDNEY JETER, BRENNA KNEISS, WILLIAM JESS LAIRD, JEFF LANDRETH, MARK LITTLE, STEVEN MANGUM, PHIL MCCARTEN, READ MCKENDREE, CARLO PIERONI, ROMONA ROBBINS, LIZZY ROLLINS, LINDSAY SHORTER, MICHAEL SINCLAIR, AMBROISE TÉZENAS, DAVE WARREN, CALLIE WEBSTER, CHANDLER WILLIAMS, MATTHEW WILLIAMS, ASSOULINE, BEEMOK HOSPITALITY COLLECTION, CBS, CHRISTIAN HARDER PHOTOGRAPHY, GETTY IMAGES, HRIZUK PHOTO, HUFTON + CROW, M LITTLE PRODUCTIONS, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, PEXELS, RIZZOLI, SHUTTERSTOCK, STM PHOTOGRAPHY, SYDNEY FAITH PHOTO

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BEAUTY for ASHES

Mourning with Those in Times of Trouble

“…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”

ISAIAH 61:3

There is a time to build and a time to mourn, and unfortunately, we are currently in a period of collective mourning as we stand in solidarity with those affected by the fires in Los Angeles. The devastating images of the Palisades and surrounding communities leave me speechless. What was once a vibrant landscape—filled with homes, restaurants, schools, and shops—now resembles the aftermath of a nuclear attack rather than a wildfire.

As I write this note, it’s hard not to think about the uncontrolled fires that still rage on, which remain a constant disturbance in the back of my mind, subtly playing in my subconscious as I try to return to work after the holidays. There is a deep sadness and a dampened spirit as I grieve for those I do not know and for the few who, thankfully, were spared the loss of their homes. The images are horrifying, and I know that the anguish experienced by the thousands of people affected there is far worse than we can imagine.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone needing a home and the brave first responders and firefighters working tirelessly to protect lives and property in harm’s way. Finding comfort and well-being can feel nearly impossible when your place of refuge is disrupted. I can only imagine the burden carried by caregivers, parents, and others in responsible roles as they face even greater challenges while navigating the difficulties of survival, rebuilding, and hopefully thriving in the near future. We dedicate this Dwellings & Interior Design Issue to you. We are committed to doing everything we can to help and will share ways for everyone to contribute through our social media channels.

with gratitude for the blessings we are given and enjoy. Our area in Northwest Florida, where we are headquartered, has experienced its share of natural disasters, particularly several catastrophic and devastating hurricanes. We know what it’s like to rebuild after such events. Many individuals and businesses featured in this issue have experienced this firsthand, and witnessing their remarkable comeback stories is truly inspiring.

The Seaside Institute, located in the renowned New Urbanist community of Seaside, Florida, is celebrating its thirty-first anniversary during the upcoming Seaside Prize Weekend, scheduled for February 7–9, 2025. During this event, the prestigious Seaside Keys will be awarded to Ellen-Durham Jones and June Williamson, co-authors of the widely acclaimed book Retrofitting Suburbia. As the outgoing chair of this esteemed organization, I feel honored to have had the opportunity to learn and lead while recognizing the importance of effective urban planning. The mentorship and guidance this coalition provides are invaluable to many aspiring developers, land planners, architects, and engineers as we move forward. To learn more or register for future events, please visit SeasideInstitute.org.

On the cover of this issue are the power couple Roy and Wendy Sembera, the developers of the stunning Churchill Oaks neighborhood on the south shore of Choctawhatchee Bay in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. They invite VIE and our readers to explore their beautiful home in our feature story, “A Crowning Jewel on the Bay,” by editor Jordan Staggs. This exceptional residence is a true masterpiece, reflecting their dedication and passion for their home and the surrounding community.

This curated edition showcases many beautiful homes featuring stunning architecture and interior design, each considered a work of art. Many of these residences are located in thoughtfully designed New Urbanism communities on Florida’s Scenic Highway 30-A along Florida’s Panhandle, alongside beachfront and bayfront properties that deserve editorial features. This contrast fills me

To a healthy, safe, and prosperous year ahead!

—Lisa Marie Burwell CEO/Editor-in-Chief/Creative Director

Photo by Romona Robbins

ATLANTA | BIRMINGHAM | DESTIN | NASHVILLE | SPANISH FORT

We collaborate with talented photographers, writers, and other creatives on a regular basis, and we’re continually inspired by how they pour their hearts and souls into their crafts. Follow these creatives on social media and don’t forget to check out our account, @viemagazine.

IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES: IF YOUR HOUSE HAD A NAME, WHAT WOULD IT BE? HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE PERSONALITY OF YOUR HOME?

Artists & Founders of Maison Colbert @colbertcharlotte, @philipcolbert

We refer to our home as “Maison Colbert” because I’m half French, and it feels like being in a surrealist movie from the 1920s. The house has mild schizophrenia, is playful and bookish, and likes red wine, tequila, and swings. It’s an incubator for outragers—the name the suffragettes gave to their wonderful acts of resistance. It likes pink and red but also quiet green and blue. It dreams of siestas and Venice but ultimately loves tarmac and bustle.

Developers of Churchill Oaks @churchilloaksfl

If we were to choose a name for our home, we would call it “Meraki.” Derived from the Greek language, it means the “essence of yourself.” It is an extraordinary word that means to do something with passion, creativity, and love. It is often used to describe the state of mind where a person puts their whole heart and soul into their work, resulting in a sense of fulfillment, pride, and joy. Meraki is associated with the concept of doing things not just for the end result but for the satisfaction and enjoyment that come from the process itself. We honestly couldn’t have found a more perfect word to describe our home and the amount of heart and soul poured into building a place that reflects how we live and love life with our family.

together. This house is more than just a building to me; it’s a space where memories are made. From the backyard, which has hosted everything from bonfires under the stars to games of cornhole, to the cozy deck where we’ve shared countless summer dinners grilling, it’s a place that naturally brings people together. Even in the winter, the yard transforms into a wonderland of snow that my dog Lilly loves to play in. Inside, the kitchen is the heart of the home, where we cook, share stories, and build connections. This is a place where holidays are especially memorable—filled with family, friends, baking, and a sense of togetherness that makes life richer. It’s a home full of laughter, warmth, and the kind of memories that stay with you long after the season ends.

E. F. San Juan & Alys Beach @eddiesanjuan, @juliakatesanjuan

Marketing Manager @lianpickens

If my house had a name, it would be “The Gathering Place,” because it’s always been where everyone comes

“Bungalow Verde: Our Coastal Sanctuary.” Home is a space of tranquility and peace, and our little sanctuary, located near the shores of Lake Powell, provides us with just that for our family of three. (Make that a family of four if you count our dog, Potato!) “Bungalow” conveys warmth and charm, while “Verde” speaks to the exterior of the home, blending the color green with the beauty of the surrounding coastal dune lake, trails, and nature preserve. The personality of our home is warm and welcoming, like the sound of a crackling fire paired with a delightful beverage while you’re snuggled up on the couch. Candles flicker nearby, accompanied by a vinyl record playing softly in the background. Rich with charm, vitality, and art, Bungalow Verde is a place where laughter and joyful gatherings harmonize—our home with cherished memories for the heart and soul.

EDDIE AND JULIA KATE SAN JUAN

CHARLOTTE AND PHILIP COLBERT

ROY AND WENDY SEMBERA

LIAN PICKENS

February Focus

Sharing stories, memories, and laughs is at the heart of everything we do! If you have a fun adventure to share, be sure to tag VIE; we would love to see where 2025 takes our readers. Have a look at some recent experiences and stories below. Until next month, read responsibly!

@aukergroup_sowal Loving the view of @campcreek.inn, part of the private @watersoundclub tucked amid the scenic coastal landscape in Watersound, Inlet Beach, Florida. This incredible collection of clubs and resorts includes golf, beaches, restaurants, and activities for the whole family, plus many other perks for members and guests! We love being part of Watersound Club and would love to chat with anyone who is thinking of joining. Let’s talk about these and all the other incredible things about living, working, and playing on #30A!

@theideaboutique Lights. Camera. Action. Looking back on such a fun cover shoot with @viemagazine! Great photos with @martulea, great food from @aja30a, and a fabulous cover for VIE’s October 2024 Issue! Photo by @mlittleproductions

@satsumafineart Nathan Alan Yoakum’s Audrey in 12 (2024) redefines pop art by blending painting, sculpture, and everyday materials. Forged on a wood panel of poplar and birch handmade by the artist, Audrey in 12 juxtaposes the titular pop icon with repurposed materials, creating a striking dialogue about art, popular culture, and consumerism. Drawing from the combine tradition pioneered by Robert Rauschenberg and Frank Stella, @_naya_art_ gallery_ transforms ordinary materials into layered mixed media artworks that challenge perceptions and celebrate reuse in a disposable world.

@northbeachsocial Whale whale whale... What have we here? If you’ve ever wondered about the giant blue whale mural at North Beach Social / Farm & Fire, you have local @southwaltonartist @andysaczynski to thank for that! The massive blue creature inspired by the endangered Rice’s Whale is made from stacked pieces of painted wood, including swirling turquoise details, colorful fish, and guitars to represent North Beach Social’s live music scene. It was installed in February 2022 and has been a fan favorite ever since! Thanks, Andy!

@beautyhabit Check out the buzz about Eau d’Italie Bodycare in @viemagazine in the article “C’est la VIE Curated Collection: The New You.” “As we step into the new year, it’s the perfect moment to refresh routines and embrace practices that nurture the body and mind . . . May you have a prosperous 2025, and always remember to take care of yourself!”

@e.f.sanjuan “I view the aesthetic of this house as a little sandcastle, as we used a lot of soft curvatures in the exterior walls and rounded edges rather than 90-degree ones,” says architect Jeffrey Dungan of his design approach on this stunning @alysbeach corner residence. E. F. San Juan is proud to have helped in manufacturing this unique custom entry for @jeffreydungan’s team and @gulfviewconstruction!

LET’S TALK!

Send VIE your comments and photos on our social media channels or by emailing us at info@viemagazine.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts. They could end up in the next La conversation!

VIEmagazine.com

PHOTO BY STEVE MANGUM

To purchase Sig Bergamin: Eclectic, visit Assouline. com/products/sigbergamin-eclectic and follow @assouline and @sigbergamin on Instagram to see and learn more.

La maison

WHERE THE HEART IS

Sig Bergamin: Eclectic is a captivating book that delves into the vibrant world of art and design through the eyes of the renowned Brazilian architect and interior designer. Known for his eclectic and colorful style, Bergamin has made a name for himself by blending diverse cultural influences and eras into his work. The book showcases a stunning collection of his projects, featuring lavish interiors, bold patterns, and a mix of textures and colors. Eclectic also includes personal anecdotes and insights from Bergamin, offering a glimpse into his creative process and inspirations. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of art, design, and vibrant living spaces.

Photo by Ilana Bessler, Sig Bergamin: Eclectic (2024, Assouline)

A CROWNING JEWEL ON THE BAY

WHEN a HOUSE BECOMES a HOME

BY

JORDAN STAGGS | PHOTOS BY STEVEN MANGUM, STM PHOTOGRAPHY

DEVELOPERS ROY AND WENDY SEMBERA EMBARKED ON THE FORMIDABLE UNDERTAKING OF CREATING CHURCHILL OAKS, A NEW PRIVATE ENCLAVE COMMUNITY IN SANTA ROSA BEACH, FLORIDA, ABOUT FIFTEEN YEARS AGO.

Comprising about forty acres on the Choctawhatchee Bay, their vision included much more than a financial investment—it was also a place to call home.

“We wanted to build a place where we could live— where our grown children could come stay and where we would enjoy waking up, taking a walk, meeting people, and making friends,” says Roy, who purchased the land with the dream of building a neighborhood focused on beautiful architecture, family, and, of course, the gorgeous views of the bay, Churchill Bayou, and Hogtown Bayou.

Churchill Oaks, Florida

Right: Churchill Oaks owners, developers, and visionaries Roy and Wendy Sembera

ot only have the Semberas achieved their vision, which is still growing, but they also worked closely with architect Matt Savoie and builder Chris Burch of Grand Bay Construction to create their own dream house. Nestled on a point overlooking the bay, walking trail, and the community’s private, thirty-six-slip deepwater marina, the Sembera residence is a gorgeous example of the lifestyle its owners hope all their neighbors will enjoy when they purchase a home in Churchill Oaks.

The house itself is a masterful blend of coastal and traditional architecture with a soft color palette reflecting the area’s white quartz sand, natural wood beams and details, high ceilings, and wall-to-wall windows in the primary living spaces to take advantage of the year-round waterfront views.

“One of my favorite spots is the second-floor deck, where you can see for miles across the bay and also keep an eye out for some resident ospreys who have made a home in one of the trees near the house,” shares Roy. The couple also spend a lot of time entertaining and relaxing on the expansive pool deck wrapping the back of

the house, including an outdoor kitchen and lounge area with screens that can be lowered to protect it from the elements all year. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors also open to the living room, allowing the home the best indoor-outdoor living when the weather is perfect for enjoying cool bay breezes and spectacular sunsets.

“This home took several years to design and build from the time of the developers’ initial vision,” says Chris Burch. “It’s one of the best houses Grand Bay has ever built—it just feels right, thanks to the great architecture by Matt Savoie, the owners’ involvement, and leaving no stone unturned when it comes to details. Several times, we started to do things and decided we didn’t like it or could improve it, so we’d take it out and start over or add something new. That’s what makes the home really special.”

The materials also set the home apart, Burch shares: the slate roof, massive glass openings (that would have been impossible to include several years ago because hurricane impact ratings weren’t standard yet), multiple fire pits, the infinity-edge pool, the copper gutters, two-hundred-year-old pine beams, ten-foot solid oak

The kitchen and great room feature incredible bay views, custom cabinetry by Keystone Millworks, venetian plaster, two-hundredyear-old pine beam ceilings, and interior decor curated by Marisol Gullo of NTS Design Group.

doors, custom cabinetry by Keystone Millworks, venetian plaster throughout, and beautiful wood floors from Europe are just a few he lists as standouts. “There are just so many beautiful things; you’ve got secret rooms and TVs dropping down from the ceiling, plus products like the Kohler digital shower that I knew Wendy just had to put in this house. It was such a great process, taking all our ideas and putting them together, and it was exciting to see it all come to life. Most of the credit goes to the vision of Roy and Wendy, with Matt Savoie doing a tremendous job designing this house and Chad Horton of Horton Land Works on the exterior landscaping design. Grand Bay was the executor of many parts of it. It was amazing to see those ideas transform into an allaround beautiful property we can be proud of.”

The Semberas not only got their dream house when it was completed in 2024 but also learned a lot about building a house and how the process works differently today than it has in years past—no doubt an invaluable experience as they embark on building more homes in Churchill Oaks.

“IT WAS SUCH A GREAT PROCESS, TAKING ALL OUR IDEAS AND PUTTING THEM TOGETHER, AND IT WAS EXCITING TO SEE IT ALL COME TO LIFE.”

Above and far

family

plenty of space for Roy and Wendy’s children and grandchildren to visit. The bunk room features built-in bunks, a theater area, and even a playroom masked by a hidden door (next page).

left: The Sembera residence was built with

in mind, featuring

Left and above left: The ground floor is designed to enjoy the best indoor-outdoor lifestyle by the bay.

“It was phenomenal,” Roy shares. “Even when we didn’t always agree with Chris or the other team members, I think that’s what makes something great—you have a roundtable of ideas and realize that someone else’s idea might make the home better.” Wendy also worked closely with interior designer Marisol Gullo of NTS Design Group—another Churchill resident—on furnishing and decorating the home. The Semberas brought in artwork by several of their favorite artists, including their friends from ESOM Art in New Orleans, Tony and Tracey Mose, and Roy and Wendy’s daughter, Abby Sembera, to add pops of color and personality throughout the home. ESOM Art and Chris Baker of Neon Natur even held a popup art gallery at the house to celebrate the holidays in December; Roy and Wendy hope to make it the first of many community events held there.

Churchill Oaks lies in the heart of Santa Rosa Beach’s northern side, ideally situated for residents to make the journey to the affluent shops, communities, and beaches of Scenic Highway 30-A on the Gulf of Mexico, hop over to beloved bayside restaurants like Farm & Fire or The Bay, or head a few miles west to shopping and dining at Grand Boulevard Town Center and Sandestin. Having the ability to travel by boat or even kayak makes this idyllic spot even more coveted

by locals. Many have come to understand that the bay offers a level of peace and privacy not often afforded to those who live on the busy Gulf side but with all the perks of waterfront living.

Another perk—perhaps the most important one to the Semberas and others who have called Churchill Oaks home for years—is the people. Roy and Wendy personally know every homeowner in the community, where it’s not unusual to stop and chat with your neighbors while you’re out for a stroll or golf cart ride, and happy hours, dinner parties, and coffee dates are commonplace among residents. It’s a lifestyle that seems to be dying amid the hustle of life and business in 2025 with the increasingly digital spheres in which we socialize—but a lifestyle that humans seem to crave. Real connections among neighbors are forged and fortified within this community that values grassy

Roy and Wendy’s master suite is a vision to behold, with vaulted ceilings and an en-suite bathroom fit for royalty.

Opposite bottom right:

The kids’ hidden playroom upstairs with a pop of patterned wallpaper

“I THINK THAT’S WHAT MAKES SOMETHING GREAT—YOU HAVE A ROUNDTABLE OF IDEAS AND REALIZE THAT SOMEONE ELSE’S IDEA MIGHT MAKE THE HOME BETTER.”

The Choctawhatchee Bay plays backdrop to this serene, private enclave in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Opposite: Designs for the new pigeonnier to welcome residents and guests to Churchill Oaks when Phase II is underway

Design by Matt Savoie

“I WANT TO BUILD THESE HOMES AND AMENITIES AND HAVE OUR HOMEOWNERS FEEL LIKE IT’S THE FINEST PLACE TO LIVE IN WALTON COUNTY. THAT’S WHAT WE’RE DOING.”

lawns, walking trails, playgrounds, centuries-old live oaks, Spanish moss, and gently lapping waters. Becoming a Churchill Oaks homeowner is akin to joining a family. “It seems like every time we have new owners in the neighborhood, everyone wants to get together to hang out and get to know one another,” says Roy. “The people we have here are all amazing, good people with great stories.”

The community is far from complete. With Phase I filling out the initial bayfront area at the end of East Hodge Road, Roy and his team—comprising several renowned area architects, including Matt Savoie, Geoff Chick, Gregory Jazayeri, and others, plus Chris Burch and Matt Ellington of Grand Bay Construction and Tim O’Hara of Coastal Custom Builders—are ready to take the next steps in the community’s growth.

With Scott Jenkins of Jenkins Engineering overseeing the expansion, Churchill Oaks Phase II promises sixteen new homesites along Musset Bayou Road and Hodge Road, plus an array of community amenities. A new pigeonnier will welcome visitors and residents as they arrive, followed by a new brick-columned entrance to the residential streets. In addition to expanding the neighborhood’s beautiful walking trails, Phase II will feature a park, pickleball courts, a high school-size basketball court, two guest bungalows, and an adults-only clubhouse, pool, and bar to complement the existing bayfront family-friendly clubhouse and infinity pool. Italian cypress trees create privacy between new homes as they do in Phase I, all of which feature exterior gas lanterns, a pool, a fire feature, and an outdoor kitchen.

“As the landscaping matures, it becomes really zen,” Roy says. “There’s a beautiful lakeside garden feeling for walking, with some alleyways that will open up to special community spaces with gardens, water features, or sculptures.”

Another marina is also planned, west of the original one. Roy shares that the mission to build a deepwater marina for residents of Churchill Oaks was inspired by his and Wendy’s trips to the Bahamas, where people often boat to their favorite restaurants and bars for a meal or entertainment. “People there will hop in their boat, then get out barefoot and walk up to little bars to get a burger. Now we’re doing that here in our little jet boat, going to North Beach Social, The Bay, or LuLu’s, or taking the bigger boat over to Destin.”

He continues, “I want to build these homes and amenities and have our homeowners feel like it’s the finest place to live in Walton County. That’s what we’re doing.”

Visit ChurchillOaksLife.com and @churchilloaksfl on Instagram to learn more and see available homes.

Although shooting lobbies can be tough with all the luggage and guests constantly passing through, the team at Four Seasons is a dream to work with. They sure know how to host!

–Read McKendree

Care to stay awhile? Under the oversight of spirited interior designer Ken Fulk, the newly renovated lobby of Four Seasons Boston exudes garden-inspired elegance. Wishing to highlight the neighboring Boston Public Garden, Fulk brought the foliage indoors, integrating classy pops of Verdun green and European finishes to provide a grounded yet stately entrance.

Rhode Island-based photographer Read McKendree captured the essence of this grand foyer in its entirety. Specializing in interior and architectural projects, McKendree has an affinity for spatial storytelling. “I have always been drawn to light and shadow and try never to let one overtake the other in my images,” he expresses. “I love capturing a space so the viewer can almost feel the room—to get them as close as possible to the experience of actuall being there.”

Often, shooting connected spaces like lobbies can be a challenge. “It can start to look a bit chaotic, with furniture piling up on itself and creating visual clutter,” McKendree explains, “but here, the stone framed the spaces so nicely and created a sense of calm. This photo was all about the various rooms unveiling themselves.”

In 2025, McKendree looks forward to several lifestyle shoots, with a vision of framing people and action among architecture and design. “As a surfer, I would love to capture the hospitality spaces surrounding some of the new wave pools that are popping up. I am very fortunate to have spent a few days surfing at Surf Ranch in California. We had all the surfboards we needed, but I wish I’d brought my camera!”

To connect, please visit ReadMcKendree.com and follow along on Instagram @readmckendree. You can also find Four Seasons Boston and Ken Fulk on social media @fsboston and @kenfulk.

Four Seasons Boston; Design by Ken Fulk Inc., Photo by Read McKendree/JBSA

Life Dream

Is But A

Traditional furniture sits alongside Charlotte’s surreal sculpture of multiple breasts and Philip’s signature lobster motif on a pedestal beneath a beamed ceiling in their period London home.

Opposite top: Exposed brick, sitting comfortably beside the mid-century-inspired table and chairs, forms a feature wall in the kitchen, as in several other areas throughout the house.

Opposite bottom: Charlotte and Philip Colbert in their quirky living room

by Anthea Gerrie PhotograPhy by Michael Sinclair

She’s been dubbed by a fan “the love child of Emily Dickinson and Dalí.” And given that sculptor, poet, and filmmaker Charlotte Colbert’s dreamlike creations have crept out into the world to decorate everything from homewares and jewelry to churches and piazzas, it’s no surprise that the home she shares with her husband, Philip, who has centered his pop art career around one of Salvador Dalí’s most famous motifs, is a surrealist’s paradise.

Even the entrance is surreal, I discover while hunting for it in Spitalfields, a picturesque enclave of London’s Shoreditch where skyscrapers sit alongside ancient tumble-down houses home to generations of immigrants. Now, while a handful of bagel bakeries and curry houses speak to a multicultural past in which Russian Jews and Bangladeshis succeeded the French Huguenots who first fled here to escape persecution, today’s Shoreditch has been taken over by contemporary creatives seeking homes and studios whose old bones are packed to the rafters with atmosphere and history.

Where a front door should be, I see only the frontage of an old-fashioned seafood purveyor, its frosted glass emblazoned with claws and tails etched in red. Lobster—that’s a clue! Indeed, when I push open the shop door, I find not fish slabs but a studio packed with artificial crustaceans decorating the chairs and other objects designed by Philip, who boldly declares on his website, “I became an artist when I became a lobster.”

The Colberts, who are also immigrants to London but only from as far as their previous home in rural Sussex, are following the tradition of living above the shop— four shops, that is, which have been pushed together to form a striking family home on three upper floors, with top-level rooms cozily shoehorned into a sloping attic. It’s warm, quirky, playful, and full of the symbols that Charlotte loves to surround herself with as literal representations of her identity as a woman.

The Colberts’ doubleheight living room is also an art gallery. A marble coffee table emblazoned with Charlotte’s signature eyeball motif takes center stage—one of many custom pieces for the house.

Opposite, top to bottom: The spacious kitchen is underpinned by a marble-topped island for casual dining.

A bar inspired by a hotel concierge desk strikes a quirky note in a corner of the house.

The double-height living room is overlooked by a gallery used as a party space.

“I’m very interested in the narratives that inform identity—from the ones we learn via history, science, and evolution to others we find in dreams and those we tell our children in fairy tales,” explains the unashamed womb- and breast-obsessed young mother over a cuppa. “I like to look at forgotten figures and stories and give them a space, like in the first feature film I directed, which looked at women persecuted for witchcraft and asked why we should fear them.”

We are sitting in a comfortable kitchen overlooking the heart of the home—a spectacular doubleheight living room created by knocking the middle two of the four buildings together by removing a wall. Upholstered sofas and oversized armchairs in ivory and taupe soften the effect of a two-story wall of sandblasted brick and provide a squashy perch from which to gaze upon an art collection that is far from restricted to the walls, spreading from floor to ceiling. Another Charlotte lurks unseen in the background—interior designer Charlotte Buchanan, who, with her partner Angus, steeped in the world of set design, helped the Colberts create a magic box of a home. Here, the couple literally lives within their dreams.

There’s a guest room on this galleried second story, while the family sleeps on the two top floors in a collection of whimsically decorated bedrooms adjoining what can only be described as highly eclectic bathrooms. My favorite one pairs yellow tiles—a mix of sunshine-bright and more muted primrose—with a matching stripey shower curtain, and I only spot when close up that the

Opposite, clockwise from top left: The glamorous freestanding tub is complemented by a large marble walk-in shower in the master bathroom, where a bespoke bath mat celebrates the name of the house.

The four-story home features an elevator with art deco-style brass trim incorporating a lobster—Philip’s proclaimed alter ego.

This bedstead by Charlotte Colbert incorporates her signature motifs and is available online from 1stDibs (1stDibs.com).

Below: Charlotte’s signature dining chairs are available to order from 1stDibs (1stDibs.com).

Below right: A mirrored dressing-table nook adds a touch of old-fashioned elegance to the master suite.

tub is embellished with dozens of breast reliefs. They hover benevolently over a pair of—what else?—lobsters disrupting the otherwise classically Victorian black-and-white floor tile. This is their daughter’s ablution space; Charlotte and Philip have a vast but more conventional tub at the attic level, facing a large walk-in shower lined in striking black-and-white marble. In the manner of a movie title, the bespoke “Maison Colbert” bath mat leaves us in no doubt that we are in the most private corner of the home, adjoining a serene, all-white master bedroom with the chatelaine’s eye motif sculpted discreetly into the wrought iron of the old-fashioned bedstead.

Tradition has not totally been banished in this house—wonderful original floorboards have been salvaged and, in some places, relaid in a herringbone pattern. There are hand-painted wood-beam ceilings and an unashamedly traditional kitchen with dark wood cupboards, brass trim, and marble countertops. But this couple has felt driven to reiterate their personal motifs as emblems throughout the house. For Charlotte, they represent the essence of femininity from the beautiful lash-rimmed eye

inspired by her pale blue orbs to the breast assemblages and uterus complete with fallopian tubes which decorate mirror surrounds and planters and loom huge in padded form as the centerpiece of a pink bedhead. “It is, after all, where life starts,” explains the seventh child of Sir James Goldsmith, one of Britain’s most famous twentieth-century tycoons.

It seems inevitable, given the couple’s friendship with other creatives—artists Gilbert Prousch and George Passmore (widely known as Gilbert & George) are neighbors, while designer Stella McCartney has held a runway show in their basement—that their surreal objects would eventually osmose into the commercial world. “I made items for my friends which got seen and admired, and the next thing I knew, the Conran Shop invited us to do a surrealist takeover,” says Charlotte of London’s most famous home design emporium. Delicate, gold-trimmed white porcelain tea sets and egg cups filled the shop over a summer, decorated like metal chairs and benches, with the famous Colbert eye, not to mention Philip’s lobster telephones inspired by Dalí’s most famous sculpture and other crustacean creations.

“Tradition has not totally been banished in this house—wonderful original floorboards have been salvaged and, in some places, relaid in a herringbone pattern.”

Now, a wide range of Charlotte’s dream objects are available to the wider world online, not only as homeware but also as jewelry—self-explanatory fallopian and eye necklaces. The first has also morphed into a vase, while the eye now decorates plates, napkins, pillowcases, and blankets.

Her preoccupation for 2025 is a massive piece of public art rather than small, intimate objects, and the twenty-six-foot sculpture being unveiled in the center of Dallas this summer is a perfect example of the poet and surrealist within her emerging in giant swathes of stainless steel. Out With Lanterns is a riff on Emily Dickinson’s description of lighting her way as she ventures forth to look for herself, but the words describing the tiny figure who morphs into a whole raft of swan-like creatures as she braves giant waves are pure Charlotte Colbert: “The girl is small, the waves are big, but they can be reimagined not as a drowning force but as something which might allow you to fly.” For art and

The Nature of Alys

A NEW LIFESTYLE EMERGES AT THE SILVA

The Silva will be a new lifestyle amenity in Phase 4 of Alys Beach, designed by Hart Howerton.

STORY COURTESY OF Alys Beach RENDERINGS BY

Hart Howerton

Alys Beach is pleased to announce The Silva, the newest and much-anticipated luxury amenity in the Phase 4 development of the town.

Latin for “woods,” The Silva will be a vibrant sanctuary on the north side of Alys Beach. Phase 4 promises to be a collection of picturesque homes organized around an expansive wetland park and the Nature Preserve. It will provide a gathering place where the town of Alys Beach transitions into the natural forest environment and where future programming will take place for kids, cultural events, and homeowners.

Designed by Hart Howerton with the vision and principles of Phase 4 in mind, The Silva will comprise a central event lawn, a conditioned pavilion opening onto the lawn, a pool, and a covered terrace with a bar and casual, full-service dining experience. Easily accessible to the rest of the community and tying seamlessly into its natural setting, this verdant and vibrant space will host family and friends while celebrating the uniquely precious natural landscape.

“This is where the town transitions into the forest and connects to the winding boardwalk weaving through the pine woodland,” says Hart Howerton’s principal architect, Tim Slattery. “The Silva is where you can find shade, seasonal color, and a restful retreat from the heat of the afternoon sun. The neighborhood streetscape is characterized by a reflective canvas of undulating white garden walls that open into landscaped courtyards and gardens—all set against a variegated assortment of the green and gold textures of the rugged natural setting. It’s a neighborhood that is a bit more ‘country’ than ‘town.’”

The Phase 4 homes and their grounds are designed together, each interconnected and balanced. An open arrangement of indoor spaces extends to outdoor garden rooms and courtyards covered by trellises and arbors that screen and shade from the sun. Outdoor gathering places for dining or lounging, screened garden rooms, and carefully located pools maximize each property’s full use and enjoyment. The courtyard and garden-scale landscapes are selected to transition naturally into the surrounding coastal pines, palmettos, oaks, and scrub. The interior design selections bring the natural palette indoors with soft, neutral tones, greens, blues, and silvery grays.

Like all of Alys Beach, this neighborhood will improve with time. As the landscape matures and grows, the homes will settle in gracefully and become another lovely spot for a morning jog, afternoon bike ride, or evening stroll.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF ALYS BEACH

Opposite: The Silva will feature a new pool, covered terrace and restaurant, and a conditioned pavilion perfect for gathering with family and friends.

The Silva and the Phase 4 residences of Alys Beach are designed to blend with the town’s beautiful surrounding landscape and Nature Preserve.

Since its inception in 2004, Alys Beach has imprinted upon the memories of all who have had the opportunity to experience the gracious beauty of the town. In addition to the homeowners and guests who’ve enjoyed vacations and milestones among its white walls and thoughtful pathways, those whose talents and skills have crafted its vision and brought it to life have been significantly and positively affected by their time there.

Over twenty years, Alys Beach has employed architects, master planners and visionaries, master craftspeople and builders, landscape designers, and experts in event production, recreation, and hospitality; many broad and varied roles

comprise an incredible machine. Working together, they coordinate and craft every detail of the town’s design and the experiences of owners and visitors alike. Among this team of individuals, you’ll often hear how proud they are to help bring Alys Beach to life and that it is truly an honor to be part of such a special place beloved by so many, with many more to come.

Visit AlysBeach.com to learn more.

These preliminary renderings of The Silva and Phase 4 homes are provided for perspective and sense of place; details are subject to change. Alys Beach is a trademark of EBSCO Industries, Inc. © 2025

In this issue, we’re “pulling back the curtain” on this incredible luxury residence in Alys Beach, Florida, with a spotlight on its architecture and interior design process of combining incredible details for such a unique custom project. Chancey Design excels at crafting livable spaces that feel like works of art. The Tampa and 30A-based architecture and interior design firm headed by Walt and Sandra Chancey is known for timeless homes that transcend the ordinary. While the team at Chancey designs breathtaking abodes from the shores of the Bahamas to the mountains of Montana, its members are partial to their work in Alys Beach. Each of their new homes in the affluent coastal town features a mix of paneling, stucco, varying roof lines, and expansive glass windows and doors for maximized natural light. Drawing inspiration from Bermuda, the Mediterranean, and Spanish Colonial architecture, the Chancey team envisions each home with a syncretic approach. Countless indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces ensure residents never have to choose between functionality and luxury living—it’s all part of the greater vision.

To learn more, please visit ChanceyDesign.com and follow along on Instagram @ChanceyArchitecture and @ChanceyInteriorDesign. Plus, look for them in VIE’s upcoming March 2025 issue!

We craft spaces that blend cutting-edge design with timeless elegance, leaving a mark on local and international landscapes. –Chancey Design

Lot #XX-10 in Alys Beach;

Photo by Jack Gardner

Gerald F. Burwell of Burwell Associates, Inc. designed this gorgeous corner residence in the private enclave of Heritage Dunes just off Scenic Highway 30-A in Seagrove Beach, Florida.

R I S I N G

TO NEW HEIGHTS

DESIGNING SPACES with PURPOSE and VISION

In the world of architecture, the interplay of creativity, functionality, and sustainability is crucial for creating spaces that enhance the human experience.

Photography courtesy of BURWELL ASSOCIATES, INC.

By KELLY CURRY

and opposite top:

Opposite bottom: The Idea BoutiqueLtd. office in Clifden, Co. Galway, Ireland

Right: VIE magazine HQ in Grayton Beach, Florida, with furnishings by isidro dunbar Modern Interiors

Photo by Romona Robbins

Below

The Heritage – A VIE Legacy Show Home in Heritage Dunes, developed by Bella Mare Real Estate Holdings with Grand Bay Construction and Duce & Company Interiors

Photos by Dave Warren

Below right: Gerald and Lisa Burwell

Photo by Hunter Burgtorf

Photo by Romona Robbins

urwell Associates, Inc. design firm embodies this philosophy, with principal architect Gerald F. Burwell delivering innovative design solutions that resonate with his clients and the communities he serves. With a commitment to quality and a focus on collaboration, Burwell has established a reputation for excellence in architectural design across the affluent communities of the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, where he spent summers as a child while living in Saudi Arabia with his family most of the year.

At the core of Burwell’s business is a design philosophy that prioritizes a deep understanding of client needs and aspirations. He believes that architecture should not only meet functional requirements but also inspire and uplift. By fostering collaborative relationships with clients, builders, contractors, interior designers, and local governing agencies, Burwell ensures each project reflects the unique vision and values of those it serves and adheres to strict codes and building standards often implemented in Florida’s Walton, Okaloosa, and Bay Counties, including the coastal areas along Scenic Highway 30-A.

“Having been born in Pensacola and taking annual family vacations to Miramar Beach, founded by my late grandfather Col. Michael Grimaldi (US Army Ret.) in 1926, Florida’s Gulf Coast is rooted deep within me,” the architect says. “It is here that I have honed my design and business skills for more than twenty-five years.”

Burwell focuses on residential architecture, commercial design, and community initiatives. He is known for creating custom homes that seamlessly integrate with their environments, prioritizing aesthetics, sustainability, and livability to deliver beautiful and practical spaces. Regarding commercial designs, Burwell tailors layouts to enhance and reflect each brand’s unique identity and needs through a new hybrid creative process of “branditecture.” Understanding the value of community engagement, Burwell has also undertaken projects such as designing local theaters and gathering spaces that benefit the public.

No project is too big or small; Burwell was integral in designing the interiors of the longstanding Destin Jewelers boutique, which was a pillar in Miramar Beach, Florida, before rebranding and moving to Grand Boulevard as The Jewel— branded by the team at The Idea Boutique, where Gerald Burwell serves as the vice president alongside his wife, Lisa Marie Burwell, the founder and CEO. Through collaboration with The Idea Boutique and its flagship publication, VIE magazine, Burwell’s architectural expertise has been utilized in the creation of

“Burwell believes architecture can shape lives and communities, actively engaging with residents and others by enriching the social and cultural fabric of a space or area.

An open-concept kitchen, great room, and outdoor living space designed for one of Burwell’s residential projects in Heritage Dunes

multiple offices, restaurants, and The Heritage – A VIE Legacy Show Home, a landmark project in Seagrove Beach’s Heritage Dunes neighborhood where Burwell has designed nearly a dozen homes. Working with small or unusual lot sizes and building between other established residences in the community, Burwell nonetheless ensured each of his Heritage Dunes residences had views of the Gulf—a testament to his creativity and ability to work with any space allotted while maintaining the highest standards.

“The hot and humid salt-air environment along the Gulf Coast is arguably the most corrosive in the world, which makes for a less-than-desirable habitat for building systems,” Burwell admits. “My years of observing how building systems behave and survive this unforgiving weather have seasoned my ability to design accordingly.”

A strong commitment to environmental stewardship also informs Burwell’s design process. He integrates sustainable practices, such as using energy-efficient materials, maximizing natural light, and incorporating green technologies to reduce the ecological impact of projects while taking advantage of the area’s beautiful natural landscape and views.

The firm’s diverse portfolio showcases its versatility and creativity, ranging from intimate residences to beautifully curated office spaces, like the modern-chic VIE magazine office in Grayton Beach and The Idea Boutique Ltd. marketing agency in Clifden, Co. Galway, Ireland. Each project reflects meticulous attention to detail and a keen understanding of the site’s context. Burwell believes architecture can shape lives and communities, actively engaging with residents and others by enriching the social and cultural fabric of a space or area.

Burwell’s notable projects in progress for 2025 include a large-scale custom retrofit of a bank building in Iowa and a 6,000-plus-square-foot modern home on the Choctawhatchee Bay in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Interior designer and owner Suzy Accola of Q-Tile + Lemontree dubbed the home the “House of Light” thanks to its ample, expansive windows. It is complete with a pickleball court, pool, and multiple outdoor living spaces to be enjoyed year-round. Suzy and her husband, builder Jim Accola of Coastal Elements Construction, are longstanding friends and clients of VIE, and the House of Light might just become the next magazine show home, so stay tuned!

With a passion for design and a commitment to collaboration, Burwell’s holistic approach—balancing aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability—ensures each project is a true reflection of the client’s vision and the broader community context. For those looking to create inspiring and lasting spaces, Burwell Associates Architecture is a trusted partner in turning ideas into reality.

For more information about their projects and design philosophy, visit BurwellAssociates.com and follow them on Instagram at @burwell_associates.

PRIVATE RESIDENCE

Heritage Dunes, Seagrove Beach, Florida

It’s Time for Change.

It’s

It’s

It’s

Introspections

THINK DEEPER

To learn more or grab a copy, visit RizzoliUSA.com and follow @rizzolibooks on Instagram. Keep up with Pierre Sauvage’s work on Instagram @casa__lopez.

Pierre Sauvage is a celebrated designer and author whose books often delve into the art of entertaining, offering readers a glimpse into the world of refined hospitality and impeccable taste. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for aesthetics, Casa Lopez owner Sauvage provides practical advice and inspiration for creating memorable gatherings in How They Entertain: At Home with the Tastemakers. His latest tome is informative and visually stunning, featuring photography showcasing his exquisite style. By blending timeless traditions with modern sensibilities, Sauvage’s books guide anyone looking to elevate their hosting skills. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a grand celebration, Pierre Sauvage’s insights will help readers entertain with grace and flair.

Photo by Ambroise Tézenas, from How They Entertain (2024, Flammarion)

THE HOUSE THAT BUILT ME

BY MEGHAN RYAN ASBURY

rowing up in the 1900s and early 2000s, I was raised on shows like Extreme Makeover Home Edition and Fixer Upper. I collected Pottery Barn Teen magazines and would circle everything I wanted. When I couldn’t get those things, I plotted to redesign the room I shared with my sister by rearranging all the furniture just so it would feel different. Something about changing my external space could change my internal state.

I also watched our beloved town go from miles of trees to miles of homes. We went from being one of five houses in the neighborhood to there being no more empty lots. Each new development promised to be bigger and better than the last. While it may not have been “legal,” we’d spend weekends checking out

these under-construction homes as my parents looked for new inspiration for the future.

Even before the days of social media, that inward desire for “more” crept into me. I thought a bigger home in a better neighborhood would somehow make me more content. Before I ever knew what contentment actually meant, I was chasing something that made me feel like I had enough.

It wasn’t until decades later that I realized contentment wouldn’t be found in another place to live. I

All

Opposite: Family

grandparents

The wedding reception of Meghan Ryan and Lucas Asbury was held in the Ryans’ backyard.

wedding photos by Sydney Jeter, Sydney Faith Photo

photos of Meghan and her siblings, parents, and

throughout the years at their home in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Photos courtesy of the Ryan family

found contentment in building a home where my feet were planted.

Post-college, I found myself searching for that familiar feeling. I looked for it in the cities I lived in, the roommates I had, and whether or not I was there long enough to hang curtains on the wall. Twenty-two roommates, eighteen houses, and three cities later, there’s still one place I can’t stop calling home.

“I ALSO WATCHED OUR BELOVED TOWN GO FROM MILES OF TREES TO MILES OF HOMES.”

My dad and grandpa built our house with their own hands in the early ’90s, long before there were other houses in the neighborhood—back before Scenic Highway 30-A was on the map and was still a sleepy little beach town. My parents only planned on staying a few years, but decades later, it’s still where they live.

It’s the house where my parents brought my youngest siblings home from the hospital. On the front

The Ryan family celebrating Meghan’s nuptials on the family porch: Patrick, Renee, Meghan, Jim, Abigail, and Micah

Left and opposite: Meghan and her husband, Lucas Asbury, celebrating at their reception

porch, we’ve seen a lot of life: birthdays and skateboard ramps, Christmas cards and prom dates. The backyard used to have a trampoline and all my dad’s construction equipment.

On my wedding day, I spent the morning getting ready with my best friends and putting on my dress in my childhood bedroom. My first look with my dad and brothers happened on that same front porch where we documented so many other life moments. Then we ate, drank, and danced with all our people in the same backyard I grew up in.

“AT SOME LEVEL, WE ALL LONG FOR THAT SENSE OF HOME.”

I spent so many of my teen years wishing that house away because I thought some other house would fill me. Now, I ache to be in that little blue house by the beach. At some level, we all long for that sense of home. We want a safe place to run to when life feels too hard or a memory we wish we could bottle up and keep with us forever. We may

“BUT TO ME, MAKING A HOME MOSTLY LOOKS LIKE THE MEMORIES YOU FILL IT WITH.”

not long for a physical place but rather a feeling. The feeling of being secure, innocent, light, and free.

Like anything in life, it can be tempting to go looking for it in all the wrong places. We think a certain zip code, square footage, or interior decor style will help us find it again. Home is not found by endlessly scrolling Zillow or comparing your space to someone else’s. Home can be found right here, right where you are. While we can build a physical home, we can also create the home our heart longs for.

I’ve learned to build a home in many places, turn roommates into family, and create memories that will outlast the address on the mailbox. It wasn’t because I filled it with the furniture I thrifted from Facebook Marketplace or the curtains I never could hang quite straight. It was because, like my parents before me, I opened the door and allowed other people to fill it.

I sent “front door is unlocked” texts and said, “Yes, let’s celebrate that here,” from birthday parties to baby showers to Super Bowl Sundays. It didn’t matter how many parking spots I had, if my plates matched, or if people had to sit on the floor. What mattered was people had a place to come and belong.

No matter where you are, how big your place is, or who you share it with, turn your physical space into a spot where others come to find rest. Open your doors. Invite people in.

“NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE, HOW BIG YOUR PLACE IS, OR WHO YOU SHARE IT WITH, TURN YOUR PHYSICAL SPACE INTO A SPOT WHERE OTHERS COME TO FIND REST. OPEN YOUR DOORS. INVITE PEOPLE IN.”

These days, I still love flipping through magazines and appreciating the beautiful spaces people create. Instead of letting them make me feel like I don’t have enough, I use them like art—to inspire me to create. Making a home can be like creating art. Sometimes, it looks like drawing up plans and redesigning a room. Other times, it looks like taking the pieces you already have and reimagining how to use them.

But to me, making a home mostly looks like the memories you fill it with.

Meghan Ryan Asbury is an author and speaker who is passionate about helping people find and live out their God-given callings. She’s worked in ministry both on college campuses and internationally, as well as with Proverbs 31 Ministries. When she’s not surrounded by friends, you can usually find her reading a book or doing something outdoors. A 30-A beach girl born and raised, she and her husband live in Nashville. Her first book, You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want, is available wherever books are sold. You can connect with her on Instagram @meghanryanasbury and at AlwaysMeghan.com.

Meghan and her wedding party in the Ryans’ living room on her wedding day

Historic Luxury in Downtown Manhattan

Nine Orchard, formerly known as the Jarmulowsky Bank, is a beautifully restored architectural landmark in downtown Manhattan. Meticulously restored using 1912 blueprints, the new hotel features stunning details like the Swan Room’s arched windows, ornamental ceiling, and marble floors. With original clocks, a sixty-foot domed rooftop tempietto, intricate cornice moldings, and historically accurate millwork throughout, Nine Orchard offers a unique blend of rich history and modern elegance.

To learn more about this iconic landmark and book your stay, visit NineOrchard.com and follow @nineorchard on Instagram.

Photo courtesy of Nine Orchard Hotel

PRESENTED BY PUBLIX

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SOUTHERN LIVING

MARCH 28-29, 2025 | AARON BESSANT PARK

Voyager

Voyager

SEE THE WORLD

To purchase Bangkok Spirit , visit Assouline. com/products/ bangkok-spirit and follow @assouline on Instagram to see and learn more.

by

Explore Bangkok’s vibrant, mysterious nightlife in the coffee table book Bangkok Spirit. Written by Simon Liberati, the publication delves into the city’s rich tapestry of culture, uncovering the hidden stories and unique characters that inhabit its streets and shadowy corners. Liberati, a French author and journalist, is known for his evocative writing style and observational skills while focusing on capturing the essence of urban life and its human experiences. In Bangkok Spirit, Liberati combines his literary prowess with a deep curiosity about the city’s soul, offering readers a captivating journey through one of the world’s most enigmatic metropolises. This book is a must-read for those fascinated by the allure and complexity of Bangkok.

Photo

Benjamin Hershey, Bangkok Spirit (2025, Assouline)

TimelEss indiAn TraditiOn

A COURTYARD HOUSE BROUGHT TO LIFE

STORY COURTESY OF ARCHITECT AKSHAY SELUKAR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMEER CHAWDA

masterful composition by architect Akshay Selukar located in Bhopal, India, this residence embodies the essence of modern Indian architecture, blending contemporary design principles with traditional elements. Known as Jipra House, the home is designed around a central courtyard, a hallmark of traditional Indian homes, providing natural ventilation, light, and a tranquil space for relaxation.

On a plot of 6,000 square feet with a total built-up area of around 10,300 square feet, this project is a crowning jewel in Selukar’s portfolio, boasting exposed concrete, brick, and glass and utilizing many local materials.

Top: This massive 10,300-square-foot modern residence in Bhopal, India, is a masterpiece designed by architect Akshay Selukar.

ArchitectuRal ElemeNts

Central Courtyard: The courtyard serves as the heart of the home, offering a serene outdoor space that integrates with the interior living areas. It is landscaped with native plants and a large sitting space.

Exposed Concrete: The use of exposed concrete provides a modern, industrial aesthetic while maintaining durability and minimal maintenance. The concrete surfaces are complemented by warm wooden elements and lush greenery.

Open Floor Plan: The layout is open and fluid, promoting a seamless connection between different living spaces. Large windows and sliding doors open up to the courtyard, creating an indoor-outdoor living experience.

Sustainable Design: Incorporating sustainable design practices, the house features rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and energy-efficient lighting and appliances. The use of local materials reduces the carbon footprint and supports the local economy.

The central courtyard is the heart of Jipra House, bringing together traditional and modern architectural elements, local materials, and a serene gathering space.

THE COURTYARD SERVES AS THE HEART OF THE HOME, OFFERING A SERENE OUTDOOR SPACE THAT INTEGRATES WITH THE INTERIOR LIVING AREAS.

inteRior Design

Living Spaces: The living room, dining area, and kitchen are arranged in an open-plan format, all oriented toward the courtyard. The interiors feature a mix of modern furniture and traditional Indian decor pieces.

Bedrooms: Each bedroom has a unique view of the front road or garden, ensuring a connection with nature. The master suite includes a private balcony and a luxurious en-suite bathroom.

Natural Light and Ventilation: Large windows and strategically placed skylights ensure ample natural light throughout the day. The courtyard facilitates cross-ventilation, keeping the home cool and airy.

Materials and Finishes: The interiors are finished with a combination of polished concrete floors, wooden accents, and marble. Soft furnishings in vibrant, earthy tones add warmth and comfort.

Interior highlights in the home include fabulous skylights and views that connect the indoors with nature, and materials such as polished concrete, marble, and wood lending to the elements of sustainability.

LandscaPe Design

Native Plantings: The landscape design incorporates native plants that are well-suited to the local climate, requiring minimal water and maintenance.

Outdoor Living: The courtyard and garden areas include seating arrangements, a small patio, and a dining area, perfect for outdoor gatherings and entertaining.

Selukar is a widely recognized Indian architect and interior designer with projects ranging from hotels and resorts to high-end residential villas, restaurants, commercial properties, and hospitality projects. He works with an aim of mastering all aspects of each design and fulfilling all requirements of clients and associates. For over a decade, his firm has consistently been recognized for its business acumen and variety of innovative design solutions that impeccably blend functional and aesthetic needs.

“The firm comprises a team of architects, engineers, and multidisciplinary professionals and has a wide range of design capability spanning from traditional structures to progressive technologies,” says Selukar’s website. “It has added value to our client base by augmenting our expertise to specialty project types. It’s more

like a family for each and every one coming in contact with us, be it clients, professionals, or traders. The studio has always been and continues to be a place where friends and colleagues are invited to share ideas and get feedback on their work.”

Honoring traditional Indian elements while creating residences and commercial projects with modern appeal, Selukar is also the present vice chairman of the Indian Institute of Architects Bhopal Center and was the founding chairperson of the Institute of Indian Interior Designers Bhopal Chapter.

To learn more or see more projects, visit ArchitectAkshaySelukar.com or follow the firm on Instagram @arakshayselukar.

Native plants soften the sleek modern lines of the home and blend into its surroundings.

Opposite: Architect Akshay Selukar

HISTORIC PAST , BRIGHT FUTURE

BY HAILEYBETHKE

oots run deep in Charleston, South Carolina, a city that seamlessly blends its historic past with fresh ideas. There is an effortless convergence of “old and new” here. Everything honors what once was while the next generation of creatives places its stamp on the city.

Anyone who has visited the “Holy City” will quickly direct you to iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row (a series of thirteen colorful, historic houses) or suggest a stroll down King Street for an afternoon of shopping. Yet, in signature VIE style, we created an insider list to take your itinerary to the next level. These boutique stays, local hangouts, and up-and-coming restaurants will give you an elevated Charlestonian experience without the guesswork.

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River in Charleston, South Carolina

Photo by Chris F./Pexels

Above: Historic townhouses on Charleston’s Broad Street

Photo by Sara Free/Pexels

WHERE TO STAY

The Pinch Hotel

Nestled sweetly in a private cobblestone alley just steps from King Street sits The Pinch, a sweet little boutique hotel. Guests enter past softly illuminated gas lanterns, where a cozy lobby beckons them to mingle over welcome cocktails and morning espresso. Every detail is thoughtfully considered in this twenty-five-room getaway, tastefully reimagined by Philadelphia-based developer Method Co.

The Pinch is fittingly positioned as a “touch of high culture in the low country.”

You’ll notice many historic elements have been preserved. You can still see the building’s original facade on the King Street side. The three buildings that comprise the hotel and its oyster bar, Quinte, date back to 1869. The locale formerly housed Bob Ellis Shoes (a favorite retailer for Manolo Blahniks, Jimmy Choos, and Louboutins).

Still, the interiors have been updated with premium finishes to maintain a timeless yet elevated appeal. Contemporary design meets nostalgic charm, capturing a timeless essence that reflects the city’s enduring spirit.

It’s no surprise the property has won several awards since its grand opening in November 2023, including two Michelin keys and various accolades in Condé Nast. I called the two-bedroom suite home, which featured a fully equipped kitchen, living room, and outdoor terrace. Thanks to the townhouse vibe, it’s easy to imagine yourself as a local. The Pinch is ideal for families, couples, and long-term stays.

Left: The Pinch boutique hotel

Photo by Matthew Williams

Right, top to bottom: The Pinch lobby

Photo by Matthew Williams

Studio suite

Photo by Christian Harder Photography

Spacious dining and living space at The Pinch

Photos by Matthew Williams

DAILY MOVEMENT

Balance is everything, especially in a foodie city like Charleston. There’s nothing better than starting your day with a worthy sweat session before setting out to explore.

Longevity Club

Longevity Club is a must-visit, featuring four floors of impeccably designed workout spaces and hosting more than eighty classes each week. Founded in 2015 by Charleston native Jennie Brooks, Longevity Club is your one-stop shop for expert trainers, topof-the-line equipment, and a welcoming, upscale environment. I took an early morning reformer Pilates class on the top floor, which overlooks the Charleston skyline. It was the most beautiful way to watch the sunrise over the city’s many cathedrals. My instructor, Mara, confidently guided the class through well-balanced sequences for a strong burn.

The Works

If you’re seeking a quick-paced, high-energy yoga flow, The Works is for you! The downtown space is gorgeous and neighbors the brand’s spin studio, The Works Cycle. The Works is a favorite among college students and young women drawn to the brand’s signature twist on an upbeat, energizing yoga flow. I can’t think of a better class to attend with your girlfriends or while on a bachelorette trip—you’ll leave sweating and smiling!

WHERE TO EAT

Basic Kitchen

I tell everyone who visits Charleston to book a table at Basic Kitchen. While there are endless dining options downtown, I inevitably find myself drawn back through these doors—often more than once during the same trip. Every plate is crafted using seasonal and local produce, emphasizing health and longevity while pioneering creative flavor profiles. The Basic Bowl never disappoints: roasted sweet potato, chimichurri broccoli, citrus kale, Aleppo tomato, chickpeas, grains, and “magic” green sauce. These flavors are far from basic and sure to satisfy.

Frannie & The Fox

Frannie & The Fox is a wood-fired Italian concept located in Charleston’s historic district within hotel Emeline. The adjacent courtyard is the ideal outdoor seating option (weather permitting), and there’s something on the menu to satisfy every guest in your party. Many of the plates are designed to be shareable, so order a round of wood-fired pizzas and small plates to savor a multiplicity of ingredients.

“Balance is everything, especially in a foodie city like Charleston.”

Weltons Tiny Bakeshop

A dream actualized by owners Hannah and Zachary Welton, this neighborhood bakeshop offers the epitome of “made with love.” The Weltons first met while working in the kitchen at Husk Charleston, and the couple has since conquered kitchens from the jungles of Tulum to the shores of the Caribbean. Every creation is mouthwatering—think mushroom and caramelized onion flaky hand pies, benne sourdough loaves, and crunchy Kouign-Amann. Don’t forget to order an iced salted pistachio latte!

Post House Inn

Located just across the bridge in Mount Pleasant, Post House Inn & Restaurant is one of the most charming destinations. The seven-room inn is the ideal escape from the faster-paced action of downtown Charleston, while the downstairs coastal tavern is open to the general public for brunch, lunch, and dinner. For a complete review of Post House, be sure to check out “Room at the Inn” by Kelsey Ogletree on VIEMagazine.com!

Longevity Club

Photo by Callie Webster

The Works RENEW yoga studio

Photo courtesy of The Works

Frannie & The Fox

Photo by Lindsay Shorter

Top and bottom left: Weltons Tiny Bakeshop

Photos by Lizzy Rollins

Top and bottom right: Frannie & The Fox

Photos by Hrizuk

Photo (top) and Lindsay Shorter (bottom)

HONORABLE MENTIONS

The Daily: For coffee and all-day breakfast, this is your spot! Start your day here and head next door to HART (see below) for a memorable jewelry-making experience. Added bonus: I was excited to discover they serve Onyx Coffee as the in-house brew.

Huriyali: Here, you’ll find organic, cold-pressed juice and nourishing bowls. The James Island location is a local hangout and one of my favorite places in the Charleston area!

Harbinger Café & Bakery: This is another favorite for coffee and impeccable pastries (I think I tried every single one in the case).

FOR THE CREATIVES

HART Jewelry

Founded in Charleston by visionary designer Hart Hagerty in 2016, HART is a boutique jewelry brand bringing a whole new meaning to timeless bling. Its Charleston and Nashville storefronts offer a bespoke charm bar experience, allowing you to customize a stack that speaks to your unique story.

HART believes jewelry is a tool for self-transformation and manifestation. As such, each charm is thoughtfully imagined by the small sister-led team. For example, the Lucky 13 Green Poker Chip charm means fortune favors the brave. Hagerty discovered a vintage poker chip in the South of France that inspired this design. The emblem encourages wearers to take their luck into their own hands.

Whether you’re celebrating a significant milestone or simply believe in joie de vivre (the joy of life!), HART is the must-add experience to any creative’s Charleston itinerary.

Photo courtesy of HART

The SEASIDE® story celebrating the town's entrepreneurial spirit, as told through the perspectives of cofounder/visionary Daryl Rose Davis, VP of The Seaside Style® Erica Pierce, and many more.

Story and photography courtesy of Palm House

Palm Beach Mod PALM HOUSE Hits the Scene

Palm House, Palm Beach, Florida’s first new hotel in four years and the island’s first modern, luxury hotel, is now open.

Ideally situated steps from the beach on Royal Palm Way, between Worth Avenue and the Royal Poinciana Plaza, the seventy-nine-room Palm House brings new-world luxury and classic elegance to the storied island. This is the first US property for the London-based L+R Hotel’s prestigious Iconic Luxury Hotels (ILH) collection, which includes some of the world’s most legendary hotels, such as the British country estate of Cliveden House, the majestic Hotel Excelsior on the Venice Lido, and the witty and dashing The Mayfair Townhouse in Mayfair, London.

T“he addition of Palm House to the Iconic Luxury Hotels portfolio is a pivotal moment for the brand, not only as it will be our second international property, but also the brand’s debut in the US,” says Andrew Stembridge, executive director of ILH.

“We are committed to expanding Iconic Luxury Hotels’ international presence and are actively exploring opportunities, both through management agreements and acquisitions, to carefully curate a collection of destinations that set a new benchmark for excellence in hospitality,” says Francisco Macedo, senior vice president of ILH International, on behalf of L+R Hotels. “Palm Beach—which represents the pinnacle of sophistication and style—was the natural next step for our brand. Palm House sets a bold new standard for luxury hospitality, offering more than just a place to stay—it’s a celebration of timeless elegance, architectural artistry, and impeccable service.”

Palm House was conceived as an everlasting escape that pays homage to the enduring allure of the island while establishing new traditions for the next generation of this timeless destination. Cooper Carry architects, Muza Lab interior designers, and art consultant Minda Dowling reimagined the iconic pinks and greens of vintage Palm Beach to create a hotel that is fresh, bright, bold, and inviting, like stepping into a glamorous jewel box. The vision was to create a place of relaxed exclusivity and discretion that would resemble a beautiful, classic home restored to meet every modern desire.

“Palm House represents an evolution in Palm Beach, raising the bar on luxury while maintaining a playful edge,” says Chris Jaycock, general manager. “We look forward to graciously welcoming guests and locals for generations to come.”

Beginning with Palm House’s lively coral facade, which peeks from behind coconut palms and lush greenery, guests know they’ve arrived somewhere special. Accents of carved cypress arbors and pale pink limestone arches add warm detailing to the charming three-story building.

Palm Bar

Guests enter from the grand porte cochere directly into the magic and energy of the Palm Bar. The “Wonderland-esque” light-filled bar and lounge is adorned with two vast seashell wall installations by Christa Wilm, two custom-made coral walls, and Murano glass chandeliers suspended from the vaulted ceiling. The bar is luminous in pink marble. The floor is a matte and polished marble mosaic that creates a sense of movement beneath an arched, antique-mirrored ceiling that adds a shimmer of reflective light. Check-in happens discreetly at the delightfully adorned desk with seashells or in the comfort of your room.

All are welcome to join the team at The Palm Bar and unwind in intimate arrangements of ruby-colored seating for cocktails, gourmet snacks, and peoplewatching. Bartenders in white tuxedo jackets take guests on a journey from perfectly executed standards and British favorites to creative interpretations of tropical Florida classics. As if being hosted in a beautiful home, hotel guests and locals alike will share an unspoken comradery while the highly attentive Palm Bar team happily caters to their personal whims and preferences.

Palm House Dining Room

To the right of the bar is Palm House Dining Room, where Executive Chef de Cuisine Jerry Ayala has created a menu that fuses Japanese cuisine with Peruvian ingredients, described by many as Nobu Style, inspired by his prior work studying the work of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, whose influence has profoundly shaped the vision for the dining experience at the Palm House Dining Room. Conceived as a destination for hotel guests and residents of Palm Beach, the Dining Room offers all-day dining, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which are available indoors and on the outdoor terrace. The versatile eighty-eight-seat room features a mix of banquettes, standalone tables, and an open kitchen with a chef’s table to provide a culinary journey that is personalized and intimate. The design artfully combines decorative oak walls and subtle Japanese-inspired textures with vibrant turquoise accents that harmonize with the hotel’s coastal setting.

Sunset Pool Deck

The view from Palm Bar is through an arched doorway, past the outdoor dining patio, to the centerpiece of the hotel: Sunset Pool Deck, where a sunken,

heated pool and patio serve as the hotel’s secluded sanctuary. With cabana beds, cushioned loungers, poolside service, and attentive pool butlers, it is an oasis of privacy and gracious living with touches of Palm House’s playful coral color in the fabrics, terraces, fountains, and pool deck. Sunset Pool Deck offers a full food and beverage menu, hourly surprises, and other delights, including Evian Spritzes and sunglass cleaning.

Palm House Guest Rooms

Palm House’s 58 guest rooms and 21 suites are spacious, averaging more than 550 square feet, making them some of the largest hotel guest rooms in Palm Beach. With a variety of room categories to suit all preferences, guests will find their favorite comforts, from soaking tubs and arched doorways to balconies and terraces that enhance Palm House’s signature indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The Terrace Rooms, which overlook the pool, feature lounging and dining patios, allowing poolside enjoyment from the comfort of one’s own private space.

Muza Labs chose a color palette of sea green, sand, and coral for these coffered rooms and suites. Colorful, coral-colored headboards are accented by custom-made, woven wall sconces, all framed by walls adorned with lattice and antique mirrors for a touch of elegance. First-floor rooms feature limestone flooring, while carpeting in the upper-floor rooms offers a contemporary interpretation of the markings found on seashells.

Palm House

Expansive Suites

Among Palm House’s 21 suites are five even more spacious suites, including the Presidential and the Royal Palm. The 1,982-square-foot, two-story, onebedroom, 1.5-bathroom Presidential Suite boasts two balconies overlooking the pool. The soaring, lightfilled, and luminous interior spaces are designed in a clean, fresh color palette of sea green, gold, and linen. The living area’s coffered ceiling is covered in textured wallpaper and edged with palm-leaf embossing. A pendant light of delicate gold metal palm leaves serves as the room’s centerpiece. The suite features a sweeping second-floor bedroom that overlooks the living areas. Its Alaskan King bed, measuring nine-bynine feet, is the largest hotel bed in Palm Beach.

Above: The stylish Palm Bar at Palm House

Opposite: Palm Bar features two seashell wall installations by Christa Wilm.

The living room of Palm House’s grand Presidential Suite

The elegant Palm House Dining Room

Palm Bar at Palm House

The Presidential Suite has a butler who will provide personalized service throughout the guest’s stay and ensure that the butler’s pantry remains fully stocked with preferential items and ILH’s new, proprietary gin. With the addition of adjacent rooms, the suite can be configured into a two-, three-, or four-bedroom suite.

The 1,464-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath Royal Palm Suite, which shares the Presidential Suite’s color palette and design, boasts a 1,021-square-foot terrace.

Palm House Ballroom and Garden Terrace

Palm House’s signature coral color is carried into the 4,000-square-foot event space, which includes a ballroom, pre-function space, and an outdoor garden terrace and lawn facing the east side of the pool area. Bringing a sense of place to milestone events, all decor accents have been custom designed for Palm House and its surroundings, from the four hand-blown coral-and-white Murano-glass chandeliers and wall sconces to the sea-spray patterned carpet. Floor-to-ceiling arched mirrors and dramatic windows create a light and airy atmosphere for any celebration.

Additional Features

Palm House is the only hotel in Palm Beach with underground parking for privacy and ease of access. All guest parking will be handled by valet service for added convenience, with space for over eighty vehicles, including EV chargers. Additional amenities and services include Natura Bissé bath amenities, custom-curated beach picnics, a house car, a fitness center, seasonal fitness classes, concierge services, same-day dry-cleaning and laundry, a business center, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Palm House is also dog-friendly and will ensure that all four-legged guests are well cared for and pampered with specialty amenities for these beloved family members.

The hotel’s extensive art collection, curated by London-based Minda Dowling, is worth a visit. It features large Stallman Studio canvas-on-edge wall sculptures, British photographer Tim MacPherson’s All Things Pink photograph, Brad Walls’ limited-edition photographs of synchronized swimmers, Australian-born Dean West’s surreal and sensual photograph of a cowboy, pool, and alligator, and geometric art by DDE Art Editions, a nod to the 1960s with a modern edge.

Room rates begin at $1,289 during the peak season and $499 off-season. For more information, please visit PalmHouse.com.

We All Swoon for EyeSwoon

Crate & Barrel’s second collaboration with Athena Calderone, the founder of EyeSwoon, introduces over ninety pieces of furniture, decor, and textiles, blending 1930s-inspired elegance with contemporary flair. Drawing inspiration from her home in NYC’s Tribeca neighborhood, Calderone celebrates new pieces and reimagines best-sellers with fresh colors and vision, like transforming the Rodin Bench into a dining chair. The Athena Calderone collection, featuring pieces like the Onirique Metal & Alabaster Lamp, celebrates exceptional craftsmanship and combines a variety of materials to create a striking aesthetic that brings a timeless luxury feel to any home.

To see more from this exclusive Crate & Barrel collection, visit CrateandBarrel.com/athena and follow @eyeswoon on Instagram.

Designer: Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel

Photographer: William Jess Laird

Stylist: Colin King

CHARLESTON'S MOST CHARMING NEW STAYS

BY CAROLYN O’NEIL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BEEMOK HOSPITALITY COLLECTION

THE POPULARITY OF CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, CONTINUES TO RISE WITH THE COASTAL TIDES OF THIS SUNLIT HARBOR CITY. AS MORE RESIDENTS AND TRAVELERS CHOOSE CHARLESTON, THERE’S A LOT OF SPRUCING UP GOING ON TO WELCOME GUESTS WITH THE VERY BEST IN SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY.

The Charleston-based Beemok Hospitality Collection (BHC) is leading the way to reimagine the city’s luxury hotel, wellness, entertainment, and culinary scene. Locally owned BHC is renovating The Charleston Place hotel, building The Cooper—a soon-to-come luxury waterfront hotel—has revived the art deco Riviera Theater, and operates Credit One Stadium. The company will even curate a small city park.

It all began with the acquisition and transformation of The Charleston Place, an elegant landmark hotel in the heart of historic downtown.

THE LIVING ROOM OF CHARLESTON REBORN

Drawing inspiration from the heritage of the low country and the elegance of the hotel’s Georgianstyle architecture initially built in 1986, The Charleston Place is undergoing a major renovation to the tune of over $150 million.

“We are thrilled to be reimagining the grand hotel for the way we live today,” says managing director Becky Hubbard.

The flagship luxury hotel is poised to wow guests and the community with refreshed public spaces, brightened room interiors, a new two-level spa, and expanded event spaces. The elegant lobby

Charleston’s charm is on full display in Sorelle’s elegant dining room.

with a gorgeous domed ceiling, a sweeping double staircase with a twelvefoot hand-blown Murano glass chandelier, and plenty of cushy sofas and chairs helped earn the hotel its nickname as “Charleston’s Living Room” along with its welcoming philosophy.

The hotel remains open and in full swing as the multi-phased project continues with improvements to its award-winning restaurants, the rooftop swimming pool, expanded spa and fitness center, and other behind-the-scenes upgrades throughout.

Guest room decor is decidedly traditional but now with brighter, lighter tones in soft blues and greens across the 433 rooms, including nearly 50 suites and a stunning new bridal suite. French doors swing open to balconies so you can listen to the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages on cobbled streets below and count the church spires that punctuate the rooftop views of Charleston, known as the Holy City.

EXPERIENCE THE CHARLESTON PLACE

Reimagining the future of hospitality at The Charleston Place goes beyond bricks and mortar enhancements to embrace the value of special experiences. Seasonal community events are held in the courtyard. Chefs will even pack a picnic for you to take to local parks.

Or maybe you’d like to learn a new party trick? I joined a sabering class led by Dave Wallace, the director of beverage, who taught us how to swiftly and deftly

Above: Mezzanine view of the dramatic lobby staircase at The Charleston Place

Right: A lively mix of landscape murals and modern decor at Sorelle

Opposite top: Historic details are a hallmark of Charleston architecture.

Opposite bottom: Harbor views from the swimming pool deck at The Cooper

open a bottle of champagne with a saber. Pro tip: find the seam of the bottle, glide the saber in one smooth move toward the cork, and off it goes!

My dining experiences were remarkable, even when I dined alone. Solo travel is a strong trend today, and I was so impressed with the waitstaff at The Charleston Grill, who made me feel welcome and comfortable. The conversation flowed with descriptions of each course and the perfectly paired wines. Chef de Cuisine Suzy Castelloe’s menu stars local ingredients. (Yes, I had the crab cakes.)

While you might never want to leave the magic of The Charleston Place with all it has to offer, it’s good to know you’re just a few steps away from downtown’s vibrant shopping and historic sites at the corners of King, Market, and Meeting Streets.

THE COOPER BRINGS WATERFRONT LUXURY

Named for one of the scenic rivers that flow into the city’s vast harbor, The Cooper is the first and only luxury waterfront hotel on the peninsula of Charleston. Set to open in the fall of 2025, the six-story, 191-room riverside hotel boasts panoramic views, a promenade to city parks, and its own pier and marina.

As one of the first journalists to be treated to a hard-hat tour of the busy construction site, I got a glimpse into what lies ahead, including modern

chop house, and a raw bar. “We will be able to utilize whole fish straight from the local waters,” says Landry.

Grace says they’ve also got you covered if you’d prefer to order a burger and fries overlooking the river. “We will soon have the best smash burger in Charleston, on the corner of the pier and the park. It will be the place where anyone in Charleston can experience a five-star hotel and feel very much at home.”

exteriors with deep green plantation shutters, a sleek waterfront infinity pool, and an innovative wellness spa for fitness, relaxation, and active recovery treatments.

The high-ceilinged lobby features a low-country mural and a grand staircase to the riverfront lounge, which has subtly nautical decor reminiscent of a vintage yacht. “There will be four restaurants all overlooking the harbor,” says managing director Lukus Grace. “We’re really going to change the dynamic for Charlestonians and people visiting Charleston with the harbor.”

Executive Chef Brian Landry, who is planning the menus and restaurant design, is excited about his move to Charleston. “I come from a huge seafood background, so if I were to have my dream job, it would be exactly this!” he shares. Restaurants will include a rooftop Greek tavern, a signature seafood

Set to welcome business, weddings, and other celebrations, The Cooper’s design also boasts twenty-thousand square feet of indoor and outdoor event space.

CHARLESTON WITH A SOUTHERN ITALIAN ACCENT

Not to be missed during your stay, Sorelle Restaurant on beautiful Broad Street is also part of the Beemok Hospitality Collection. This is where Southern Italian cuisine meets Southern hospitality with a market, restaurant, and lively bar. The neoclassical building dating back to the early 1800s is a living lesson in historic Charleston’s evolution. Over the years, it has housed a bank, a drugstore, an orphanage, a liquor store, a law office, and various other businesses.

Above: Outdoor café seating under the palms at Sorelle on Broad Street

Above right: Arancini cacio e pepe at Sorelle

Opposite: Waterfront guest room at The Cooper with a calming palette of coastal decor

Today, Chef Nick Dugan’s menu is making history there with dishes such as Burrata with Salt-Roasted Beets, Pillows of Gold Ricotta Tortelloni, and Line-Caught Swordfish with Sicilian Capers. If you have to say so long to Charleston, the sweetest way to celebrate your visit is by savoring Sorelle’s Budino dessert with dark chocolate custard and toasted coconut crumble.

For more information on these Charleston hotels or to book a stay, visit CharlestonPlace.com, TheCooper.com, and SorelleCharleston.com.

Stay in ROCKSTAR

mainstay of the Miami Beach scene, SLS South Beach is where decadence seamlessly merges with elegance and style. Recently masterfully reimagined by pop-icon Lenny Kravitz’s Kravitz Design, the Tower and Villa Penthouses offer spacious and luxurious accommodations.

Inspired by the home of a world traveler, these spaces welcome guests with a globally minded and eclectic aesthetic harmonized by design elements that nod to L. Murray Dixon’s art deco architecture. The design features a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and elements, including

warm cypress wood and rich earthly stone. Black and white marble, silver glass mosaic tile, pewter and gold modeled wall finishes, and hand-screened wallpaper further enhance the contemporary theme. Custom organic modern furniture brings together a mix of leather, wood, and metal, adding depth and character to the interiors. Both penthouses share a foundational concept, yet each is treated with a unique flair. Filled with curated treasures acquired throughout a lifetime of travel, these spaces showcase fine, well-designed pieces that are eccentric yet tasteful. The blend of cultures and eras creates an enchanting ambiance that exudes sophistication and charm.

Lenny Kravitz's team at Kravitz Design recently reinvigorated the interiors of the Tower Penthouse at SLS South Beach hotel in Miami Beach.

Below: Lenny Kravitz performing in Denmark, 2024

Photo by Rene Dyhr/Shutterstock

TOWER PENTHOUSE

The Tower Penthouse offers sweeping ocean views from every window and a stunning private rooftop terrace. This expansive, nearly 1,050-square-foot space showcases art-filled living and dining areas, highlighted by striking blackand-white checkerboard marble flooring, creating a bold design statement. The grand living room is adorned with two large forest green and black sectional sofas, offering ample seating for gatherings with friends. A one-of-a-kind dining table featuring a green marble top is surrounded by seagrass woven chairs. Complementing the room, an impressive bar framed in leather is paired with jade-colored countertops and sleek black stools.

The Tower Penthouse includes a spacious primary bedroom with a unique freeform bed and a large bathtub on a raised platform, creating a luxurious retreat. Its primary bathroom also beckons guests with an immersive rainfall shower. Additional amenities include an entertainment system, kitchen, one half-bathroom, and armoire closets, ensuring every convenience is at hand.

Step outside to the expansive outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze and breathtaking views that enhance the lavish experience of this remarkable penthouse.

VILLA PENTHOUSE

At over 1,100 square feet, the Villa Penthouse offers a front-row seat to the action at Hyde Beach, featuring private access to the venue and a wraparound balcony overlooking the pool. Inside, the space boasts a contemporary feel, exhibiting walls adorned with reclaimed cypress panels and black marble for an elegant touch.

The expansive dining and living areas are designed for comfort and style, with stone flooring throughout. The dining area displays a stylish wooden table accompanied by black leather chairs, topped off with a striking copper chandelier that adds warmth to the space.

In the living room, plush velvet couches in a deep orange hue are complemented by plaid ottomans and chic marble coffee tables, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and socializing. The primary bedroom is a stylish sanctuary characterized by a plaid-framed bed and a built-in bathtub, perfect for unwinding. The Villa Penthouse also includes a kitchen, a wet bar, a walk-in closet, one half-bath, one full bath with a rainfall shower, an entertainment system including two TVs, and a convenient powder room and walk just off the living area.

To book, visit SLSHotels.com/south-beach/rooms-and-suites/suites.

A contemporary beachfront home beckons north of San Diego in Dana Point, California. The interior design, led by Summer Jensen of Hawk & Co, redefines luxury on another level. While “luxury” indicates tasteful design and beautiful things, Jensen and her team prove it can also mean intentional, thoughtful, and sustainable design choices. Organic materials and clean lines reflect the surrounding seascape; a swim-inplace lap pool, automated sliding glass doors, and cutting-edge audiovisual technology bring a touch of modernism.

Jensen knows exceptional homes are made through devotion to detail. Drawing inspiration from biophilic design, she carefully chose colors to mirror those of the beach and headlands, while the landscape pebbles were hand-selected to match the local stone. She even consulted a feng shui master to ensure optimized energy flow within the home; the master’s suggestions inspired smoked mirrors and luminescent chandeliers to retain positive energy. Leading with purpose, humility, and luxurious minimalism, Jensen demonstrates that luxury and sustainability form a powerful synergy when approached with a meticulous eye for design.

To learn about the Dana Point project, please visit HawkandCo.com and see more of Summer Jensen’s work on Instagram @hawkandco.

Summer’s palette of choice, invariably neutral, is carefully chosen to evoke a connection with nature, enhancing the timeless appeal of her designs. She believes Mother Nature is the greatest artist.

—Hawk & Co

Photo courtesy of Hawk & Co

Suburbia

The New Urbanism community of Seaside, Florida

Photo by Jeremy Harwell, courtesy of SEASIDE®

BY JORDAN STAGGS

ELLEN DUNHAM-JONES AND JUNE WILLIAMSON RECEIVE THE COVETED SEASIDE PRIZE

The Seaside Institute and Seaside, Florida, founders Robert and Daryl Davis are honored to bestow its prestigious Seaside Prize recognition upon Ellen Dunham-Jones and June Williamson at its 2025 Seaside Prize Weekend. The celebration will take place the weekend of February 7–9, with various events and symposia.

The Seaside Prize recognizes individuals or organizations whose life’s work aligns with the Seaside Institute’s vision of promoting livable communities. The honor is a testament to June Williamson and Ellen Dunham-Jones’s tremendous impact on the built environment. Their books and teachings inspire architects, planners, urban designers, developers, and community leaders to retrofit aging, underperforming suburban properties to address urgent challenges, disrupt automobile dependence, improve public health, support an aging society, leverage social capital for equity, compete for jobs, and add water and energy resilience. Together, they have worked to bring change to education and communities to “retrofit suburbia.”

E. F. San Juan, a custom architectural moulding, millwork, and cabinetry manufacturer based in Youngstown, Florida, has committed to an annual sponsorship the weekend as a platinum-level monetary donor and creator of bespoke wooden key enclosures for the prize recipients.

“T

he custom boxes my father created for the Seaside Prize last year represent a culmination of everything our family has accomplished since he opened E. F. San Juan in 1976,” says the company’s president, Edward San Juan. “Robert and Daryl Davis have created something with Seaside that’s taken on a life of its own, and we’re grateful to have worked in the town from the beginning. Our partnership with architects and builders in the town of Seaside spans four decades, and providing our services for these homes and the magnificent Chapel at Seaside represented a pivotal point for our company. We happily give back through this sponsorship and gesture of creating a mahogany box to encase the coveted Seaside Prize Key.”

This custom-crafted box designed by founder and CEO Ed San Juan symbolizes the quality and dedication shared by E. F. San Juan and the Seaside Institute in their joint commitment to excellence and the art of design. It is a sponsorship to be presented in perpetuity for the Seaside Prize for all future events, first presented in February 2024 to Victor Dover and Joe Kohl, founders of Dover, Kohl & Partners, a renowned Miami-based town planning firm. Thanks to the popularity of the mahogany boxes, Ed San Juan

THE WORK E. F. SAN JUAN HAS DONE IN THE TOWN OF SEASIDE IS A TREMENDOUS ASSET TO OUR COMMUNITY’S BEAUTY, LONGEVITY, AND legacy. “

Above: Christy Milliken, Eddie San Juan, Edward A. San Juan, Robert S. Davis, Joseph Kohl, Ed F. San Juan, Victor Dover, and Dhiru Thadani at the Seaside Prize 2024

Right: Edward A. San Juan speaking at the Seaside Prize Awards Ceremony 2024

Opposite bottom: Joseph Kohl and Victor Dover accepting the 2024 Seaside Prize from founder Robert S. Davis

Photos by Hunter Burgtorf

ELLEN DUNHAM-JONES JUNE WILLIAMSON

has also worked to create enough of them to present to past Seaside Prize winners as a keepsake and protective case for their bronze key-shaped awards designed by Dhiru Thadani and cast by artisan Manish Waghdhare.

“The work E. F. San Juan has done in the Town of Seaside is a tremendous asset to our community’s beauty, longevity, and legacy,” says Seaside cofounder and visionary Robert Davis. “Their commitment to excellence reflects everything the Seaside Institute stands for. We’re so happy to have them as a sponsor for the Prize Weekend and to present our Seaside Prize recipients with such a special keepsake as the box they’ve created.”

“Being present in the Chapel at Seaside for our 2024 award ceremony was such a moving experience as E. F. San Juan presented their bespoke Prize Key enclosure to Victor Dover and Joe Kohl,” says Seaside Institute executive director Christy Milliken. “Ed and Edward San Juan have literally

built a family legacy in our New Urbanism communities here in South Walton, including Seaside, Alys Beach, and Rosemary Beach. Having them be part of the Seaside Prize just made sense, and it’s been an honor to get to know them and learn about all they have contributed to the architectural integrity of our area.”

The Seaside Institute will formally present the Seaside Prize to Ellen Dunham-Jones and June Williamson at the awards ceremony on February 8, 2025, by Seaside, Florida, founder Robert Davis. The ceremony will be hosted at The Chapel at Seaside, and it promises to be an evening of celebration, reflection, and inspiration.

Register online or learn more about Seaside Prize Weekend at SeasideInstitute.org. Visit EFSanJuan.com to learn more about this third-generation architectural moulding, millwork, and cabinetry firm.

BY LIAN PICKENS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WALTON COUNTY TOURISM

Underwater Treasures

FLORIDA'S MOST UNIQUE MUSEUM

THE UNDERWATER MUSEUM OF ART, LOCATED IN THE GULF OF MEXICO OFF THE SHORE OF SOUTH WALTON, FLORIDA, IS A UNIQUE BLEND OF ART AND MARINE CONSERVATION.

It provides a rare and extraordinary opportunity to experience talent in a setting unlike any other. Established in 2018, the museum is the first of its kind in the United States, offering a fascinating underwater experience where the Gulf of Mexico and art collide. The UMA is part of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County’s Art in Public Spaces Program, a broader initiative aimed at enriching the cultural landscape of South Walton by offering public art installations in various forms.

Situated just off Grayton Beach, the UMA features an array of sculptures created by artists worldwide. The pieces that line the seafloor aren’t just aesthetically pleasing; they are designed with an ecological purpose. This innovative approach provides a unique artistic experience for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts and contributes to the health of the local marine

The Grayt Pineapple sculpture by Rachel Herring McCord

ecosystem. Over time, these pieces evolve into artificial reefs, fostering marine biodiversity and helping restore the natural coral reefs that have been impacted by pollution, climate change, and other environmental challenges.

Each year, new models are carefully selected and added to the museum by artists from around the world, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. Recent 2024 installments include works by artists such as Nathan Hoffman, whose piece Poseidon’s Throne symbolizes the power we yield and how we must work together for our worlds to coexist, and Ashley Rivers, whose sculpture Sunken Spores allows growth, new habitats, and nursery grounds. The 2024 sculptures brought a diverse array of works that explore various themes related

Above: Husband-andwife team, design duo, and dive buddies Ingram Ober and Marisol Rendon are the creatives behind I FOUND IT!

Right: South Walton artist Alison Wickey’s Anamorphous Octopus was one of the first sculptures deployed as part of the inaugural Underwater Museum of Art.

THE UNDERWATER MUSEUM OF ART IS AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE THAT CELEBRATES THE SYNERGY BETWEEN HUMAN CREATIVITY AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, CREATING A LEGACY THAT WILL CONTINUE TO FLOURISH

beneath the waves.

to environmentalism, the ocean, and the delicate balance between nature and human influence.

The 2024 deployment marked the second livestream event, a significant milestone that continues to widen the museum’s global reach by offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how the sculptures are placed on the seafloor, as well as the importance of their role in marine conservation. For the first time, the deployment had live commentary from Walt Hartley, the president of the South Walton Artificial Reef Association, who provided insights into the environmental impact of the sculptures and the ongoing efforts to restore local ecosystems. These new additions continue to draw attention to critical environmental issues while providing a stunning visual experience.

The upcoming 2025 sculpture deployment promises to be another exciting chapter in the UMA’s story, with five new designs set to be added to the museum’s collection. Nathan Hoffman will return with a piece titled The Neptunian Oak , inspired by the majestic and resilient oak tree. Hoffman’s sculpture will feature a hollowed-out trunk that will allow marine life to inhabit and explore its grooves. The sculpture is designed to echo the function of trees on land by producing oxygen through photosynthesis. Jessica Bradsher’s UMA design, Seahorse , is created to spark the imagination and embody the belief that anything is possible if you can dream it into existence. The seahorse, a symbol of grace and resilience in the marine world, will serve as both an artistic and environmental beacon. Other sculptures, including Concretion, Happy Hour , and Hometown , will continue to bring attention to the importance of community and connection through the formation of new habitats and fostering the sense of togetherness that humans share with the natural world.

For those who are passionate about marine life and art or simply looking for an extraordinary adventure, the Underwater Museum of Art is a must-see

destination. By combining beauty with ecological impact, the UMA is not only a groundbreaking institution but also a testament to the power of art to inspire change. It reminds us that art can transcend boundaries and has the power to transform both our perceptions and our world.

The Underwater Museum of Art is an immersive experience that celebrates the synergy between human creativity and the natural environment, creating a legacy that will continue to flourish beneath the waves.

Visit UMAFL.org or follow the Underwater Museum of Art on Instagram @umaflorida to see more and plan your visit.

Top: Dawn Dancers, a sculpture by Shohini Ghosh, was lowered into the Gulf of Mexico during the third Underwater Museum of Art deployment in 2021.

Above: Northwest Florida’s artificial reef system expanded in January 2024 when the R/V DEEP STIM III research vessel sank into the Gulf of Mexico.

Modern Elegance in Boston

Introducing the Artful Penthouse in Boston, a breathtaking space boasting sleek furniture and lighting designed by Caffe Latte Home. This space emphasizes a contemporary modern style that seamlessly blends comfort and luxury. The Penthouse is thoughtfully curated to create a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere for all who inhabit it. The design integrates nature-inspired shades, wood paneling, and marble finishes, reflecting a commitment to both beauty and functionality.

To see more from Caffe Latte Home, visit CaffeLatteHome.com and follow @caffelattehome on Instagram.

Photo courtesy of Caffe Latte Home

ESOM ART POP-UP AT CHURCHILL OAKS

Art, wine, and architecture converged in the bayside community of Churchill Oaks on December 12, 2024.

Members of the VIE team, Churchill Oaks residents, and friends and family across the community celebrated New Orleans artists Tony and Tracey Mose of ESOM ART, Chris Baker of Neon Natur, and the vintners from Vineyard 985 at the gorgeous home of Churchill Oaks developers and visionaries Roy and Wendy Sembera. It was great seeing everyone for a festive and fabulous evening of cheer. Thank you, Wendy and Roy, and to Roux30a for the delicious bites. We can’t wait to celebrate more events like this in Churchill Oaks!

Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

Roy and Wendy Sembera

Tony Mose

Roy and Wendy Sembera with Jane and Greg Bahr

Jordan Staggs and Chris Baker

Tracey Mose

The ESOM Art and Vineyard 985 teams

George and Stephanie Brannon, Roy Sembera, and Brittney Page

Abby Sembera, Wendy Sembera, Russ and Jennifer Settoon, and Roy Sembera

Jordan Staggs, Madra McDonald, Lisa Marie Burwell, and Marta Rata

82ND GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS

The 82nd Golden Globe Awards ceremony once again celebrated excellence in film and American television for an array of projects that debuted throughout 2024. On January 5, 2025, the awards aired live from The Beverly Hilton, hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser, the first solo female host in Golden Globes history. Big winners of the evening included the films Emilia Pérez and The Brutalist, the drama series Shōgun, and Viola Davis as the winner of the annual Cecil B. DeMille Award.

Photography courtesy of CBS Entertainment, 2025

Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin

Photo by Stewart Cook

Selena Gomez

Photo by Stewart Cook

Wicked cast: Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Marc Platt, and Jon M. Chu

Photo by Phil McCarten

Keleigh and Miles Teller

Photo by Stewart Cook

Jennifer Coolidge Photo by Phil McCarten

Anya Taylor-Joy

Photo by Phil McCarten

Emma Stone

Photo by Stewart Cook

Andrew Garfield and Kerry Washington

Photo by Sonja Flemming

Zendaya and Demi Moore

Photo by Stewart Cook

HOMES & DESIGN

BY MYLES MELLOR

Puzzle on previous page

Home is the nicest word there is. “ ”

—Laura Ingalls Wilder

22 JUNOP COURT, SANTA ROSA BEACH, FLORIDA

$4,350,000 | 4 BR, 5.5 BA | 5,042 SQ. FT.

This was my dream: to actually build this house. It takes a lot of luck and magic to be able to do that.

–Andrew Kotchen, Founding Principal at Workshop/APD

Welcome to the Courtyard House, a Nantucket family residence designed by Workshop/APD. Here, the “heart of the home” is undoubtedly the sweeping central courtyard. Ideal for privacy and summer soirées, the green is abundant with native plants, al fresco living spaces, and a breathtaking zero-edge infinity pool. Modern architecture meets the timeless appeal of the island’s earliest Shaker structures, allowing the home to shine without the need for opulence or extravagant finishes. Organic materials, bespoke finishes, tasteful statement lighting, and a neutral color palette converge in this ideal summertime retreat.

The property was photographed by Rhode Island photographer Read McKendree. Specializing in architecture, interiors, and hospitality, McKendree is often on the road shooting exceptional spaces across the world. When he’s not behind the lens, he loves to spend time with his wife and daughter, carrying his surfboard and a cup of coffee along for the ride.

To connect with Read, please visit his website ReadMcKendree.com and follow along on Instagram @readmckendree. You can also learn more about the Courtyard House on Workshop/APD’s website, WorkshopAPD.com.

Design by Workshop/APD, July 2021| Photography by Read McKendree/JBSA

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Bespoke Design

Creative Visionary Suzy Accola with Wilde

Photo by Brenna Kneiss

To learn more about ZHA’s work on King Abdullah Financial District Metro Station, visit Zaha-Hadid.com/ architecture/kingabdullah-financialdistrict-metro-station.

Photo by Hufton + Crow

Au revoir!

BEFORE YOU GO . . .

The Riyadh Metro in Saudi Arabia, the world’s longest driverless transit system, spans over 176 kilometers with six lines and 85 stations, designed to accommodate up to 3.6 million passengers daily. The King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Metro Station, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, serves as the central interchange, connecting key areas like King Khalid International Airport and the KAFD monorail. The station’s composition incorporates sinewave-inspired structures, features an energy-efficient cooling system, and has earned LEED Gold certification. With its cutting-edge design, seamless connectivity, and commitment to sustainability, the Riyadh Metro is not just a transit solution but a symbol of the city’s forward-thinking vision for a more efficient, green, and interconnected future.

YOUR VIEW, OUR PASSION.

E. F. San Juan’s renowned wood millwork creations are complemented by the highest quality windows and doors. Our craftsmen work seamlessly with the most trusted providers of impact-rated doors and windows, such as Loewen®, to create custom homes that masterfully combine security, beauty, and function.