Design + Decor Southwest Florida Edition by East Coast Home Publishing

DESIGN +DECOR

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

$5.95 US

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KIT

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DESIGN +DECOR

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

WINTER 2019

Modern Mediterranean

Lana Knapp of Collins & DuPont Design Group takes coastal transitional to a new level in this award-winning new home in Talis Park Story by Anastasia Storer Photography by Lori Hamilton

Designing for Community Luanza Maitland and Sydney Leigh Warren of Norris Furniture & Interiors are the creators behind the interior design of this extraordinary Key Largo model home by Florida Lifestyle Homes. Story by Anastasia Storer Photography by Blaine Jonathan

Contemporary Comfort on the Seashore

Kira KrĂźmm and Koastal Design Group give an older condo on Crescent Beach a much-needed modernization.

Story by Anastasia Storer Photography by Blaine Jonathan

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Editors Letter Ask the Experts In the Field

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Melange Kitchens & Baths Profile

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DESIGN +DECOR WINTER 2010

Editor-in-Chief Matthew J. Kolk mattkolk@me.com 203-820-1092 Managing Editor James Eagen Contributing Writers Deborah Brannon, Lisa Gant, Susan Heller, Pam Gersh, Jessica Rivest, Kait Shea, Anastasia Storer Contributing Photographers Jane Beiles, Michael Biondo, Phillip Ennis, Tria Giovan, John Gruen, John Hannon, Paul Johnson, Neil Landino, Mark La Rosa, Tim Lee, Daniel Milstein, Janice Parker, Durston Saylor, Debra Somerville, Eric Striffler, Jonathan Wallen, Woodruff/Brown Photography Copy Editor Elena Serocki Graphic & Web Design East Coast Home Publishing

Publisher Shelley E. McCormick sm@dd-mag.com 203-545-7091 Account Manager Alessandra Flanagan af@dd-mag.com Design + Decor 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Naples, Florida 34113 Fax: 203-286-1850

Design + Decor is published six issues per year. To subscribe: www.dd-mag.com; Subscriptions: one year, $28; two years, $50. Back issues can be purchased at www.dd-mag.com. For editorial inquiries: Editor, Design + Decor, 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Naples, Florida 34113 or e-mail: mattkolk@me.com. For advertising inquiries: Please call Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091. Reproduction whole or in part without permission is prohibited. All projects described in this publication are for private, noncommercial use only. No rights for commercial use or exploitation are given or implied. The opinions expressed by writers for articles published by Design + Decor are not necessarily those of the magazine.

EAST COAST HOME PUBLISHING 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Naples, Florida 34113 DD-MAG.COM

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

new year is bringing some exciting changes to Gulf Coast Design + Décor magazine. GCDD is about to move into its second year of publication, and I couldn’t be more pleased at how receptive and welcoming the southwest Florida communities have been. Our brand recognition – and our readership – continues to grow, both online and in print, and GCDD has become THE magazine people turn to, not only for design inspiration and to read about current and upcoming design trends in our region, but also to educate themselves about the construction industry and the trades that are part of it as well. GCDD is published by East Coast Publishing, a company that has been in the business for sixteen years, and is the publisher of our “older” sister magazine, East Coast Home & Design, which focuses on the communities along the northeast seacoast of Connecticut, New York and New Jersey. Matthew Kolk, ECHP’s Editor in Chief, and I have decided to re-brand both magazines under the title Design + Décor. Future magazines will share a singular title and logo, with regional designations. Both magazines will retain their focus on their current regions, but we will also be expanding our coverage to other exclusive communities here In Southwest Florida. Design + Décor is proud to partner with The League Club to be the Design Sponsor for the upcoming Naples Tables charity event on March 11th, 2019. More information is available on The League Club’s website: www.leagueclub.org. On a more personal level, it’s been a pleasure to become more involved in the community and the industry here in Naples and Southwest Florida. 2019 will be my second year serving on the Sand Dollar Award committee, and I was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the Interior Design Society, where I will serve as its membership Director. Thank you to all of you, our readers, as well as to the many interior designers, architects, vendors and contractors who were a part of GCDD during its inaugural year. I and East Coast Home Publishing look forward to continuing to bring you the absolute best of Southwest Florida’s design industry.

Shelley McCormick Best,

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- Publisher

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MELANGE

THE CURATED KITCHEN On Tap Inspired by vintage beer taps, On Tap offers an engaging new experience in water delivery – one that feels familiar and trailblazing all at once. Large in scale and handcrafted from solid brass, the interpretation represents a unique feat of engineering: Its ruggedly beautiful pull handle lets users control the generous flow of water, while a separate knob on the side dictates temperature. waterworks.com Bridle Bridle boasts “V” groove wood paneling and metal strapping that recalls classic boxed planters at Versailles, while also incorporating luxurious details from vintage luggage, antique car trunks and honest plank doors for a truly distinctive, exclusive design. Integrated hardware, including exposed olive-knuckle hinges, slotted dome screws and sturdy pulls result in a versatile, layered effect evoking urban sophistication and traditional warmth. Shown in Dark Gray Oak with Unlacquered Brass hardware waterworks.com

Miele Vacuum Sealing Drawer Vacuum sealing is a tried-and-tested method of extending the storage life of food and of conveniently portioning larger quantities. The vacuum-sealing drawer by Miele enables the user to control the sealing level and duration to adjust for delicate items, such as fish or vegetables, or performs a strong hold on meat that would benefit from locking in marinades or seasoning. For sous-vide cooking, the vacuum-sealing drawer and a steam oven from Miele join together to form a formidable team. miele.com

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Dash The perfect blend of art and function, Dash pays homage to 1930s design elements, with pared-down shapes, softened curves and minimal details. The resulting forms are beautiful and sophisticated, with a unique simplicity that goes well beyond basic. Newly expanded to include kitchen gooseneck and pull-out faucets, the collection is versatile enough to suit any decor style without sacrificing the vintage character and inspiration that set it apart. waterworks.com

Miele Combi-Steam The Miele combi-steam oven fulfils all your cooking requirements. As a fully-fledged steam oven, it cooks foods delicately without the need for added oils and butters. It is also equipped with various oven functions including Convection Bake as well as operating modes such as Surround, Intensive and Broil. It shows its skill in Combination cooking - a combination of moisture and blower heat for perfect results, particularly when baking and roasting. miele.com

Miele Ranges Harmonious Design, precise performance, purposeful innovation and effortless operation blend to create the Miele 36” Dual Fuel Range. Miele redefined the category offering an assortment of 30”, 36” and 48” Ranges that are as functional as they are pleasing to the eye. Simmer, sear, roast and bake with confidence. miele.com

Design + Decor

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LUXE LEATHER + LIVING NAPLES LEATHER naplesleather.com

Crystal Cocktail Table This captivating design is inspired by the pure, precise interlocking forms of natural crystals. Three sharply formed steel arms appear to grow upwards from a central node, their interplay creating a dynamic central focus.

Octopus Statue Bring the ocean to your living room or office with our handmade, luxury collection Octopus Table Top Sculpture. Coastal and charming, this decorative glass sculpture features a clear and blue finish with gold granilla accents.

Audrey Bed Set The sturdy powder-coated steel frame is redefined by rich, softly and horizontal upholstered inserts (available in a plethora of fabrics). To ensure a glamorous nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest, the soft multi-color control LED light (optional) shine through behind the open slotted headboard.

Hudson Sectional Long known for first-to-market function and innovation, American Leatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s put a new spin on reclining sofas and sectionals with their Style In Motion collection, featuring a whisper-quiet reclining mechanism that can be built into any chair, sofa or sectional. Infinitely adjustable with independent foot and back controls, these pieces provide unmatched comfort for conversation, reading, watching, or lounging.

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ASK THE EXPERTS

DON’T BE BLIND ON BLINDS If you’re thinking about getting new blinds or shades, here’s some very helpful information and advice from Brian Melle at Blinds & Designs of Florida What should people consider when choosing window treatments? How can they avoid making mistakes? When selecting window treatments, it’s not just about looks—it’s very important to think about opacity: light filtering, room darkening or blackout. Do you want to keep some view while blocking the sun, or do you need complete privacy when the shade is closed? You might want a product that offers both options. When considering solar screen shades, how much sun do you need to block and still keep the view? The other decision to make is where the shade gets mounted: inside the window opening (if there is enough clearance) or outside the opening. These are all important factors, and where most mistakes are made. Be sure to call our professionals—not just an order taker—to discuss your options. Our staff is well versed in these issues, and we can help you obtain beautiful window treatments that will also accommodate your specific situation and needs. 34

Please tell us about your Luminette® line. Luminette privacy sheers provide the widest range of light and privacy control preferences while accenting the room with luxurious elegance. Soft fabric vanes are set between translucent sheers and rotate for the best of both worlds. The vertical vanes, available in translucent and room-darkening fabric, feature 180-degree rotation so you can enjoy your view during the day and still have privacy at night. During the day, light is softly diffused and spread evenly throughout the room, which allows you to enjoy the natural light and view without harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays fading your floors and furnishings. At night, you have ultimate privacy with the look of soft draperies. Luminettes meet not only your practical needs, but your decorating needs as well. Designed with layered fabric along the top to resemble a valance, they look gorgeous on their own. There are

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over 100 swatch choices available, including a large assortment of dust- and stain-resistant fabrics that cater to any style or décor. They are perfect for wide, floor-length windows and sliding glass doors, expanding up to 16 feet wide and 10 feet tall. To achieve a cohesive, balanced look, use a Hunter Douglas Silhouette® window shade for standard windows and Luminette privacy sheers for large windows and glass doors. How is Pirouette® different from Silhouette window shadings? One major difference between the two is that the Pirouette has cascading folds more similar to a Roman shade. The Pirouette opens up with one layer of sheer fabric to soften your view, while the Silhouette has two layers of sheer to view through. Both are elegant options for your windows and provide excellent UV protection: 85% when open, 99% when closed. The look and fabric selections are the biggest differences: Silhouettes offer more of a traditional elegance, while Pirouettes create a very sophisticated look. For which rooms do you recommend faux wood blinds? Faux wood blinds are terrific for any window in any room, though we generally do not recommend them for sliding glass doors. Horizontal blinds are the perfect choice to control light and privacy; while they look great and can be very functional, they are also budget-friendly. What are the advantages of motorized shades? There are many advantages to motorizing your shades and blinds, including safety, ease, convenience, energy-efficiency and security. Laws are currently changing to Design + Decor

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eliminate cords on shades and blinds to keep children and pets safe, making motorized shades an excellent choice. For homes with windows that are hard to reach, motorization is a necessity, as it enables the homeowner to use a handheld remote to operate shades with the touch of a button—either individual or multiple shades all at once. As an option, you can upgrade to the full smart-home solution and use your tablet or smart phone to conveniently control your window treatments. You can even program your shades to move on their own: Set the shades to close when the sun starts to come in and protect your furnishings, then reopen later, even if you’re not there. Motorized shades provide security when you’re not home, because when the shades are moving, the lawn man, pool guy or passerby thinks someone is there. This smart-home option also lets you use Alexa, Echo or Google Assistant to talk to your shades or blinds. Motorized shades can be hard-wired or powered by battery. Contact us for a free consultation regarding hard-wired shades for preconstruction or remodels. What does GREENGUARD Certification mean? When a product has been GREENGUARD Certified, it has been tested and scientifically proven to have low chemical emissions. That means it doesn’t emit chemicals harmful to humans and is also antimicrobial, so it won’t adversely affect someone with allergies. More and more products these days are moving in this direction. Hunter Douglas’ Palm Beach Polysatin shutters and many of the fabrics used in the company ’s products are GREENGUARD 38

Certified. This is a great benefit. What are banded shades? Originally introduced in Europe, Designer Banded Shades are also known as Zebra Shades, Double Roller Shades, TwinLights and Mezzanine Layered Shades, depending on the brand. Banded shades offer a unique control of light and privacy. They combine sheer fabric with bands of solid fabric that allow you to control your view. With the shade down, you can move it to the view position that lets you see outside while maintaining some privacy and softening the daylight. At nighttime, you can overlap the bands, providing the privacy you need. Banded shades come in different opacities: light-filtering, roomdarkening and light-dimming fabrics. The fabrics are available in a variety of textures, colors and band heights. Choose a band height that will best suit your view-through preferences. Hunter Douglas offers great geometric designs. Shades are offered with a rounded or squared fabric-covered cassette, eliminating the need for an additional valance or top treatment, and include a fashionable bottom bar. Operation systems can be manual with a chain, motorized with a remote, or controlled with a soft-touch power wand that is attached to the shade. Blinds & Designs of Florida also offers custom draperies and cornices. Can you please share some ideas on how to use these? Custom draperies and cornices offer a modern twist on a clas-

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sic look, adding layers of volume, texture and personality to any room. These tasteful, personalized window treatments also provide a stunning backdrop for any décor. A small window can look larger by placing drapery panels higher and wider than the window itself. Achieve a royal look by puddling drapes on the floor, or kiss the floor to create a neat look that easily falls back into place every time you move them. Add custom pillows, table runners or bedspreads to your draperies and cornices to make the whole room come together. Designing draperies and cornices for your space can be overwhelming. Don’t go it alone—work with an expert to avoid any headaches. Contact Blinds & Designs for a free consultation, and we’ll help you every step of the way. Resources: Blinds and Designs Brian Melle 2123 University Parkway Sarasota, FL 34243 941.360.9200 blindsanddesignsofflorida.com

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ASK THE EXPERTS

Indoor or outdoor, Designers’ Rug Center offers fine-quality rugs to please every family member.

Dine in distinction with this dramatic design from Tamarian.

Tamarian rugs created this warm design called Bhardong Downing Stone.

THE RUG MAKES THE ROOM Designers’ Rug Center is Naples’ Choice for Fine-Quality Area Rugs Since 1992

fter 25 years at the same location in Downtown Naples, Designers’ Rug Center is excited about relocating its showroom of fine-quality area rugs and exclusive wall-to-wall carpets to 732 U.S. 41 North, just south of the Bentley automobile dealership.

Designers’ Rug Center enjoys a well-earned reputation for unequalled customer service and satisfaction in South Florida. Since 1992, interior designers and decorators from both coasts have relied on the company’s fine-quality rugs for their clients’ homes, and homeowners have appreciated the personalized customer service from the highly experienced staff. The store offers hand-knotted Oriental rugs in traditional and transitional designs, sisals, bold contemporary styles and even one-of-akind custom creations—virtually any style and color of finely crafted 40

area rug. It also carries a complete selection of wall-to-wall carpeting from the world’s best manufacturers, and provides expert, professional installation service. How to Find the Ideal Rug Chris Smith, the store’s owner, points out what you should consider when you go rug shopping. “First and foremost, you should really admire and love the rug you are thinking of, beyond the added benefits of how it will complement your furnishings and the room in which it is placed,” he says. “A rug should be thought of as an original work of art for your floor.” In fact, it has been said that purchasing a handknotted Oriental rug is like purchasing an original oil painting, while purchasing a machine-made rug is like getting a print of that painting. A key to selecting the best rug is to buy the highest quality of rug within your budget; the cost will prove to be well worth it in the over-

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Chris Smith, Designers’ Rug Center owner and his wife Laura Swanson

all life of the rug. Many specific characteristics come together to determine the quality of each rug, including the fibers used and the way each knot is woven. Geography also plays a big part in how artisans create and craft each piece. “There are some exciting new trends in rug décor, including innovative new weaving technology to vibrant colors and patterns,” says Chris. “Exotic skins and hides are also very popular now. Our cowhides are selected from the best hides from Uruguay and Argentina, and are available in custom designs and sizes. They are very stain-resistant and take six to eight weeks to create.” Chris’ store is South Florida’s largest source of fine Nepalese rugs, which are woven using the Tibetan knotting technique. The wool comes from sheep that are raised in very high altitudes, resulting in a high lanolin content and subsequently a beautiful sheen for the rug. The wool is hand-spun, which creates a very unique look. Specializing in custom Nepalese rugs, Designers’ Rug Center carries more than 500 samples of custom designs and has over 1,200 different color selections from which customers can select the perfect look. Designers’ Rug Center is very enthused by the response from its clients about its new location, and looks forward to greeting many more customers who stop in and see the store’s new inventory in all sizes, designs and styles. Resources: Designers Rug Center Chris Smith 732 U.S. 41 North Naples, FL 34102 239-434-9584 designersrugcenter.com

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DESIGN +DECOR CONNECTICUT NEW JERSEY NEW YORK SOUTHWEST FLORIDA TO SUBSCRIBE GO TO: DD-MAG.COM

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March 21–24, 2019 Piers 92 & 94 NYC Buy tickets now addesignshow.com

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ASK THE EXPERTS

A Sense of Style with Laura Parsons of Pure Design

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hat home design trends are you excited about, and how do you parlay them into your design aesthetic? High-contrast geometric patterns and big statement mixing of materials and scale. Also, a return to handcrafted authenticity versus buying mass-produced pieces. Mixing high with low, new with vintage, sleek with layered. Really, anything goes; it’s all about what you love. How would you incorporate the “Pantone Color of the Year” into a design scheme? “Living Coral” is the Pantone color for 2019. A shade akin to our stunning Florida sunsets, it is a vibrant and uplifting accent when paired with gray, white, taupe, lemon yellow or pale blue. A few ways to introduce this color would be in accent pillows, cozy throws and art. Instead of using coral literally, you can separate it into its orange and pink counterparts. I think Living Coral would make a dynamite accent wall color in the right space. How do you mix old and new furniture as well as artwork? Ubiquitous design is now a thing of the past, while antiques are an exciting nod to the design future. People want their rooms to have soul and personality—and to tell a story. I call it the “crunch factor.” With wonderful websites like Viyet, Chairish and 1stdibs, vintage and antique pieces are having a major comeback. As far as mixing old and new, it does require a discerning eye. Just call me! How do you use lighting in a home to create different moods and effects? There are three basic layers of lighting: Ambient light provides general illumination throughout your home, task lighting is for utilitarian jobs, and accent lighting, such as chandeliers and lamps, is the “jewelry” of the room. Picture lights and overhead spotlights bring artwork and accent walls to life at night. Just make sure every light is dimmable. I always switch out harsh bulbs with ones that offer a softer, warmer light. It will make your space feel invitingly abundant. It’s all about casting a flattering glow in the room and on those in it. Resources: Pure Design Laura Parsons 758 12th Avenue South Naples, FL 34102 239.775.4057 puredesignofnaples.com Design + Decor

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KITCHENS AND BATHS

Daltile Cesari Grey

Express Yourself - in the Kitchen Design + Decor talks with eleven industry experts about the latest in southwest Florida kitchen design trends Story by Anastasia Storer

one are the days when the kitchen was tucked away in a back corner of the house. Kitchen spaces are living spaces now, and this has led to a revolution in how we think about our kitchens—and how we design and furnish them. If you’ve been pondering a new kitchen, join us as we gather up the latest kitchen trends and kitchen design advice from some of the industry’s top interior designers and brands.

gray oak flooring,” adds Gaby. “There are so many beautiful options when it comes to natural wood. Species like maple, American walnut, hickory, birch and Tasmanian oak, with their different colors and grain patterns, can add incredible depth to a kitchen design.” Clients are also requesting custom medallions and patterns; the design possibilities are limitless. “Anything goes,” she says. “We’re doing everything from a star flower design, to more geometrical patterns, to woven looks, and a lot of one-of-a-kind custom work.”

Be Unique Expect to see more individuality in kitchens. While the contemporary aesthetic is still leading the way, clients are starting to want a design that is uniquely theirs and doesn’t look like their neighbors’ kitchens. Indeed, trends can result in design stagnation: when everyone follows the trend, everyone’s kitchen looks the same. “I believe the new trend is going to be the no-trend,” says Gaby Saad of Real Wood Flooring. “People are embracing the creative possibilities of living in a one-of-a-kind space, built and designed for them, to their tastes.” Real Wood Flooring is responding by adding three additional colors to their Vintage Loft Collection, and will also be debuting a new collection for spring 2019 with eight different natural wood options. “We’re seeing movement away from the typical

Kelly Hall of Richlin International has also been seeing a move towards the more creative, unique kitchen. “People are becoming more excited about kitchens, so we’re seeing more innovative ideas and clients willing to take chances with kitchen design,” she says. “The kitchen is becoming the main focal point of the home. We’re in total open living—no walls—and people are starting to have fun with their kitchens.” She encourages people not to forget about special lighting, which can add the finishing touch “not only under-cabinet, but inside the drawers and cabinet spaces themselves. Our lighting is 100% LED and fully sensored, so the light comes on automatically when you open the door. I love it because it’s functional and beautiful.”

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Cermaic Matrix - Constellation Blackout

Bill Weeks of Coastal Kitchen Interiors has always encouraged his clients to go with what they like and to put more of themselves into their design decisions. “I want people to feel more comfortable stamping their own personality onto their project,” he says. “You don’t have to choose the current trend. I have sold every feasible surface available, including zinc, reclaimed wood and enameled lava stone. Buy what appeals to you. If you want to be different, be different!” Sound advice is to be a little more muted with the choices for the larger, more expensive elements of the kitchen—such as countertops and cabinets—and to use other elements to express your creativity. “Cabinets and counters are still pretty neutral, which is practical given the cost of replacement,” says Jenny Provost of K2 Design. “We like to focus on backsplashes, wall finishes, lighting and hardware to make a kitchen design stand out. We use a lot of commissioned art in our backsplashes, and we’re doing mosaic tile murals, acid washed and glazed steel, even backlighting for the backsplash, for spectacular results.” Jenny is particularly pleased with the grow cabinets K2 offers for the indoor gardening enthusiast who wants to have fresh herbs—or pretty houseplants—on hand.

“Backsplashes are the perfect way to add color and texture to the kitchen,” says Gina Gilberto of Ceramic Matrix. “They are very ‘big bang for the buck’ as a design element. We’re seeing some fun geometric tiles and patterns now, like hexagons and trapezoids. And don’t forget to consider grout. Grout doesn’t have to be white or gray; it comes in a myriad of colors, so you should consider it as a design element as well. You might go for a contrast to the tile color or choose a color that is complementary to the kitchen color palette.” Sara Irizarry of Daltile agrees. “People are getting creative with bold designs and different patterns as their backsplashes,” she says, “because this is a simple area to swap out in a few years if they want to revamp their kitchen look without a lot of cost.” Homeowners are starting to experiment more with patterns and designs as well. “They’re getting very creative with backsplashes by using interesting tiles to inject color and pattern into their kitchens,” says Summer Kath of Cambria. “Arabesque, leaves, bubbles and even resin with little shells in it—unique is becoming more and more sought after by our clients,” adds Sara. “I love it when a client is all-in when it comes to creating a truly personal, unique kitchen design!” Design + Decor

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Naples Flooring - Roma

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Ask the Ex

Material Matters What been your experience working showing with designers? With has more creativity and individuality up in kitchen design, it’s no Itsurprise has beenthat an material eye-opening, educational experience that hasremain lifted diverse my mind and and finish preferences and choices among imagination. details seemarble so much when of I would showwhen properties— homeowners.I see Quartz hasI didn’t eclipsed in terms popularity it comes for the importance of backgrounds, the numerous to instance, kitchen countertops. “Quartz is where it’stextures, at for counters right products now,” afand selections, and more the cosmetic part thatStudio. it takesQuartz to create the the lifestyle firms Shane Mulcahy ofof Coastal Home Design offers same the homeowners to stone, call their I’ve become awareand of what beautiful look aswant natural butown. is much more durable easierthe todesigner maintain needs to know: education they must keeplooks up with regarding textiles, furnishand clean. “Thethe new Corian Quartz lineup exactly like natural stone,” says ings andofappliances; numerous they must withfor knowledge of Jenny K2 Design.the “We’re excitedvendors to be carrying it ascontact an option our clients.” products, so they can provide clients with what they desire; and the relationships they with vendors, builders andmaterial contractors to make deadlines. Designers Theneed popularity of glass as a kitchen is definitely growing, largely because must keepmarvelously up with thewith latest and products create the stylestyle. of the cliit works thetrends sleek, futuristic look to of contemporary “Backent’s dreams, it backsplashes, be traditional,cabinet contemporary, coastal chic or modern. painted glasswhether is used as doors and drawer cladding—and There variations of vocabulary for each, which depends I love are thedifferent new Miele colored-glass-front appliances,” Jennyusually says. “And thereon are where the client is from or hasThe traveled. also glass countertops now. slabs of glass can be produced in the same thickness as many other commercially available countertop materials. It’s easy Do you enjoyand what you do?has the glamour factor going for it.” Just be careful to maintain definitely Yes, very itmuch so, to the point that I keep up Mammoliti with everything! Recently I exputting around cooktops, cautions Patricia of Florida Designer panded my career joining NorrisisFurniture and as director Cabinetry. “Glassby used in kitchens tempered, ofInteriors course, but nothingof is busiinvulness development, working with four from Naples Sarasota. nerable. The glass can’t withstand heat locations over 200 degrees; you’llto want to avoidMy ushome office is inand theovens—and corporate office in Fort Myers, ing it base around ranges you never want to setand a hotI travel pot orup dishand on down theThere’s Gulf Coast see away clientsfrom facehigh-gloss to face. I truly people in it bare.” also atoshift glasscare to a about softer the finish. “We’ve this industry, plus buyers/clients. my mind are not just“The business noticed it with ourtheir Poggenpohl paintedInglass doors,”they Patricia adds. gloss partnerships, Whatever I can domatte to be asatin partfinish of their success finish used tobut beextended popular, family. but now it’s the opaque people are isasking gratifying. I’ve you beendon’t in Southwest Florida forfingerprints almost 20 showing years, andonam veryor for.” And have to worry about glass much part of the growing communities, supporting charitable events local metalafinishes anymore, either. “Companies like Miralis now have newand appliance businesses.

Ask Kitchens.indd the Experts.indd 49 17

finishes that prevent the oils from your fingers and hands from transferring to the finish leaving mark,” What is theand best advicea you cansays givePatricia. a potential buyer? I always say, “Hire a specialized realtor and designer,” even if you are looking at Speaking of and satindevelopment. finishes, the softer looka is in kitchen new product Interview fewalso to becoming see if theypopular understand your hardware. “Chrome is stilltheir number one,” says “andtopolished nickel isitbig, needs, and find out about credentials. TakeShane, the time do this because is butof I’myour seeing a lot morenot satin and brass. The satinI iswould not quite thelook brushed one biggest—if thegold biggest—investment. always for it’s realtor a softerwho feel is without the brushed texture.” Burke ofThis TEC Conafinish; full-time a resident in the area you areDawn considering. realtor struction hasmost also noticed a shift in finish popularity.in“Matte black ishetrying will have the knowledge of what is happening the industry; or sheto comeback in the she says.developments “Nickel, chrome are still ismake well ainformed about newkitchen,” and upcoming that and you steel may not be the most popular, butmarketed, homeowners starting to homes want a to little more color and aware before they are fromare single-family high-rise condos. individuality Jenny, “Antique brass—with a look similar It’s importantintotheir find kitchen.” out if theAdds realtor has developed a real team around them, to the waya itmortgage was in thecompany mid-1900s—is makingapproval, a comeback. And I’m also title mixincluding for financing insurance agents, ing metalsreal in my kitchen designs: a polished nickeland with the antiqued for company, estate attorney, architects, builders designers. The brass, designer you by maymaking be seeing is the sink.beginning, “Stainless instance.” One place will save money in thewhere long run the less rightmetal choices at the steel is giving toand alternatives such as Blanco’s Silgranit sinks,”toJenny says. “I avoiding wastedway time money on costly errors. He or she needs be brought we’ll be seeing morewith of these integrated-style sinks inand—for alternateamaterials.” inthink before closing to assist new construction selections, smoother transition if you’re furnishing a complete home—can start on the interiors Using a diversebefore mix ofclosing materials, and finishes a kitchen designonly is beand furnishings withcolors a floor plan, even in if you’re bringing a coming prevalent. “We’re seeing designs where, for example, we’ll few itemsmuch to themore new home. have base cabinetry in wood and stainless steel for the top cabinetry,” Shane says. “We’re mixing materials like metals and woods and using different paints Resources: and stains, all&inInteriors a single kitchen design. So we might have perimeter cabinetry Norris Furniture thatSchmidt is painted, but a natural wood for the kitchen island, which gives the island Fern its own personality within the overall design. It’s all about creating a unique, 14125 South Tamiami Trail personal kitchen.” Fort Myers, Florida 33912 239.690.9844 norrisfurniture.com

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Real Wood Flooring - Cupola

Beneath Your Feet When it comes to flooring options, “homeowners are moving away from natural stone,” says Shane. “We’re seeing more engineered hardwood floors and porcelain tile.” Cristian Longo of Naples Flooring agrees: “A natural wood floor—especially in the modern kitchen—adds warmth, texture and richness. Our certified European French grand white oak is a popular choice with our clients.” Wood sometimes worries homeowners because, traditionally, it has required regular maintenance and re-oiling, and it may be damaged by spilled liquids. With the new technologies available today, however, there’s no reason to avoid wood in the kitchen, says Gaby. “With a urethane finish, all you do is wipe off the spill with a paper towel and you’re done,” she explains, “because the pores of the lumber are closed and protected so the liquid cannot penetrate. Our wood flooring gives you all the beauty of wood, but frees you from the constant maintenance and worries. Most of our wood floor finishes have a 50-year residential warranty.” For those looking for something a little different, Bill of Coastal Kitchens suggests that homeowners “have another look at some of the ‘old’ products, like cork, linoleum and vinyl composites, which are making a comeback thanks to new manufacturing processes. I have a client who wouldn’t trade her cork kitchen flooring for anything because she loves how it feels underfoot.” And when it comes to flooring, size matters. “Our wide plank flooring is 50

Coastal Kitchen Interiors

definitely most requested,” says Cristian. “Clients want to see fewer seams these days,” adds Bill. “We’re seeing wood planks up to 12 inches in width now,” agrees Shane. “And larger format tiles as well—3 feet by 3 feet, and still getting bigger. You can even find tile sold in 4- by 8-foot slabs now, the same size as a typical sheet of drywall. With fewer seams, you can create some beautiful veining patterns on floors.” Gaby predicts this “bigger is better” trend won’t last, however, at least when it comes to wood flooring. “Northern Europe sets the flooring trends in the industry, and we’re already seeing narrower widths in planks—as narrow as 3 to 4 inches—coming back into fashion. Expect the trends here in the United States to follow.” A Little More Color More color is starting to make its way into the kitchen. “We’re doing a lot of two-toned kitchens right now,” says Kelly of Richlin International. “And we’re seeing a lot of influence from the Italian market. People are wanting to create drama and contrast in the kitchen. One color we’ve been seeing in Italy that is starting to come here is a blue-green hue called ’danubio.’ It’s a lovely, elegant color that goes really well with the darker woods.” “I’m definitely seeing a return to a more colorful kitchen,” agrees Bill. The classic pairing of white and black is also gaining in popularity. “Black and white together creates a bold, futuristic look,” says Patricia. Sara adds, “Blackand-white patterns are a hot trend we’re noticing lately. They allow a space to be modern, yet retain a classic feel.” Expect to see more interesting textures as

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well. “I’m loving the texture looks coming out that are really creating dimension. Right now we have some incredible tile collections—Caprice, Illuminary, Cascading Waters—that are in unique, intriguing shapes, and add beautiful color and visual texture to the kitchen.” Bolder contrast and darker palettes are also gaining in popularity, according to Summer of Cambria. “We’re seeing some beautiful new and adventurous designs, and we’ve noticed homeowners gravitating towards darker countertops,” she says. “Our Blackpool Matte and our just-launched Black Marble are both becoming very popular as a way to make a dramatic statement in the kitchen. It’s a definite departure from the lighter grays and whites of the past.” With multiple kitchen islands also growing in popularity in kitchen design, “we’re seeing homeowners using different colors and materials on countertop surfaces,” Summer says. “They might have a solid color along the perimeter, and then a coordinating design on the island.”

Florida Designer Gallery

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Porcelain Perfection We’d be remiss if we didn’t give a special shout-out to this material, which looks to be on everyone’s minds, and no wonder: it just might be the most versatile material on the market right now. And when we say versatile, we mean it: porcelain works well for flooring, backsplashes, countertops and even walls— and it’s now making its way into the

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Dacor Modernist Range - Coastal Home Design Studio

Cambria - Golden Dragon

bathroom, being used for shower walls. It works just as well outside, so expect to see it in outdoor kitchen spaces. Already popular in Europe, porcelain slab countertops and backsplashes have been turning up at major kitchen and bath shows here in the U.S. The material’s versatility is matched by its beauty. “The porcelain tile industry has made amazing leaps with its inkjet technology,” explains Shane. “It’s more durable than any natural stone or quartz, and you can get a porcelain floor for less cost with the same gorgeous look as marble. Porcelain tile can mimic the look, feel and even reflection you get with natural stone.” The one possible drawback is that, currently, porcelain is available in only a half-inch thickness, which means it has to be mitered to create the illusion of thickness if it’s the desired look for a countertop. But “thin is in right now,” says Kelly, “so most clients aren’t concerned about the thinness of porcelain. Porcelain can even mimic some of the world’s most beautiful marbles, like SapienStone’s Calacatta and Black Maquina options.” “Our greatest request is for stone-look porcelain in rectangular shapes for 52

kitchen flooring, and wood-look porcelain plank tile in the remainder of the house,” Bill says. “The pattern process in the tile industry is at such a technologically advanced stage that the choices are endless, including wood, terrazzo, patinated metals and etched concrete. Whatever look the homeowner wants, porcelain can probably deliver it.” Earth-Conscious Focus The construction and interior design industries continue to make strides towards more sustainable and environmentally conscious products and processes, which pleases our group of experts. “I’m excited about the process innovations I’m seeing from our suppliers,” says Bill, “like streamlining production and green initiatives in the form of better recycling practices and investments in more efficient equipment.” Recycling and reusing materials is on the rise. “A large number of our products are made from 100% recycled content,” says Gina. “We make it part of our business practice to work with manufacturers who are committed to environmental sustainability. It’s something we take very seriously as a company.”

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K2 Design

Antique wood is also finding new life in homes, whether for an accent piece or as flooring. “We’re expanding our line of reclaimed wood floors,” says Gaby. “We have some woods that are from as far back as the 17th century. I love seeing what designers are doing with these beautiful old woods.” “The fact is,” Jenny explains, “the natural stone products our industry uses come from cutting the stone out of the earth. It’s not an infinitely available material; it doesn’t grow back.” This is why it’s wonderful to see alternatives like porcelain, which can give the same look but doesn’t damage and deplete the environment. “Clients are absolutely trying to be more responsible when it comes to sourcing of materials and VOC emissions,” Cristian says. “They want to use materials from renewable sources and avoid chemicals that aren’t friendly to the environment.” Dawn of TEC Construction agrees: “Homeowners are focusing their choices on materials and appliances that are healthier for them and the environment.” No matter what your kitchen plans might be for the coming year, remember that it’s your kitchen. If you’re in love with something—a particular material or a special color—don’t be dissuaded if it’s not the latest trend. Make your kitchen uniquely your own!

Resources: Cambria USA Summer Kath, Executive VP of Business Development and Design Eloise Goldman, VP, Public Relations cambriausa.com

Ceramic Matrix Gina Gilberto, Branch Manager 2160 Trade Center Way Naples, FL 34109 239.596.7997 ceramicmatrix.com Coastal Home Design Studio Shane Mulcahy 1673 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109 239.597.5040 coastal-home.com Coastal Kitchen Interiors Bill Weeks 2275 J and C Boulevard Naples, FL 34109 239.631.5324 ckinaples.com Daltile Sara Irizarry, Design Studio Manager 990 1st Avenue South Naples, FL 34102 239.963.0243 daltile.com Design + Decor

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Richlin

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TEC Construction

Florida Designer Gallery Patricia Mammoliti 10800 Corkscrew Road, Suite 105 Estero, FL 33928 239.948.9005 floridacabinets.com K2 Design Jenny Provost 25081 Bernwood Drive Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239.444.5205 k2design.net Naples Flooring Company Cristian Longo 900 5th Avenue South Naples, Florida 239.263.1213 naplesflooring.com Real Wood Floorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Naples Gallery Gaby Saad 2013 Trade Center Way Naples, FL 34109 239.470.5827 | 877.215.1831 realwoodfloors.com Richlin International Kelly Hall, Showroom Manager and Designer Miromar Design Center 10800 Corkscrew Road, Suite 182 Estero, FL 3392 239.659.3007 richlininteriors.com TEC Construction Dawn Burke, Sinks, Faucets, Light Fixtures dawn@plumbingandconstruction.com 2033 Trade Center Way Naples, FL 34109 239.566.8322 plumbingandconstruction.com Design + Decor

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ASK THE EXPERTS

CHARETTE The term “Charette” (little cart) appeared in the late 1800’s. Architecture students at the Ecole Des Beaux-Arts in Paris who needed to rush their designs to their instructors, placed their drawings on a cart which was called a charette. Later the word broadened in meaning and came to describe any intense, short-term design project. Today the word is used by the architectural and design community at large to describe any intense, on-the-spot design effort.

Design + Decor asked several of our Architects to design a charette and describe how it relates to their design. The results are not only stunning, but amazingly creative.

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K2 DESIGN GROUP

s a child, I spent many hours boating on the Caloosahatchee River along the southwest Gulf Coast. When I first visited the site for this modern mansion, I was reminded of how quickly storms could form in the volatile summer months. This memory served as inspiration for the ceiling designs in this structure, with its panoramic Caloosahatchee River views. The revolutions of our hypermodern ceiling fans inside the circular recesses emulate the movement of a spinning cyclone or one of our infamous hurricanes. The dark beauty of the approaching storm seems to make time stand still. K2 Design Group Jenny Provost 25081 Bernwood Drive Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239.444.5205 k2design.net

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MHK ARCHITECTURE + PLANNING

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HK’s architecture features many large white brackets and a signature metal gable roof. The watch face’s clean lines and hour markers mimic the white brackets. Polished metal is used throughout.

The hands on the watch also accentuate the long, elegant lines, including the trim and stylized framing. The internal circle is made up of symmetrical dashed sections, much like the siding that adorns the exterior. The split-second face boasts the MHK logo insignia. The use of a circular shape provides an organic contrast and feel to the rectilinear lines within. This plays on the watch-face de-

sign’s “timelessness,” which is a hallmark of MHK homes. The stitching is a tight, uniformed pattern, much like the interlocked patios and driveways that make up the front apron. The overall look reflects a clean, minimal conversation piece that speaks to the “innovation of time”—again, the timeless style of MHK’s architecture. MHK Architecture and Planning 975 6th Avenue South Suite 200 Naples, FL 34102 239.331.7092 mhkap.com Design + Decor

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ichaela Reiterer and Brandt Henning, principals of Hlevel Architecture, drew inspiration for this watch-face design from a recently completed Naples waterfront residence. The modern design of the house reflects the architect coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work philosophy of being on the forefront of design and technology, while applying a holistic and sustainable approach to each project. The LEED Silver-certified home, built with sustainability in mind, has energy-efficient and high-tech components. The watch also strives to be cutting edge with current technology, yet gentle to the environment and context. Like the home, the watch evolves by utilizing interactive features to help monitor energy use, manage work tasks and connect to other devices. With its modern, clean lines, the residence blends into the lush, tropical context and plays with contrasting natural textures, such as the wood and stone cladding. The two-story vertical stone element at the entry serves as an axial point that â&#x20AC;&#x153;cutsâ&#x20AC;? through the house and is readable on the interior while continuing to the back of the house. The strong axis and composition of organic materials are reflected in the watch-face design, reminding us that while technology will help us navigate the future, nature will keep us grounded and whole.

HLEVEL ARCHITECTURE

Hlevel Architecture Brandt Henning Michaela Reiterer 1110 Pine Ridge Road Suite 201 Naples, FL 34108 239.384.6083 hlevel.info Design + Decor

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DAVID LAPIERRE CARDELLO ARCHITECTS

requently found in art and architecture, the golden rectangle has been known since antiquity as a rectangle having a pleasing shape that seems “right” to the eye. It was acknowledged by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci. This watch face, designed by David LaPierre of Robert A. Cardello Architecture & Design of Norwalk, CT, is an example of getting back to the basics of great design. “The proportions are timeless and can be used in both the round and square format,” says David, “and the ratio can be adjusted infinitely and maintain the same proportions.” David LaPierre Cardello Architects 97 Washington Street South Norwalk, CT 06854 203.853.2524 cardelloarchitects.com

Design + Decor

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ARCHITECTURE JOYCE OWENS

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oyce Owens of Architecture Joyce Owens LLC (AJO) was inspired by a city skyline when creating her charette for a watch face. Traditional watch needles have been replaced with vertical lines mimicking both the rhythm of an an urban landscape as well as the ebb and flow of passing time. Exemplifying AJO’s modern minimalist design, the watch face was executed as a smart watch as opposed to a more traditional timepiece. “We wanted the choice to reflect a commitment to reduce our dependance on material choices and increase our interests and pursuits in design and technology,” notes Joyce. Similarly, AJO’s color branding is reflected in the default setting of the smart watch design, which allows for individual color preferences as well.

A long history of debate surrounds the question of whether time is linear or cyclical and rhythmic. “Time echoes the skyline; the minutes and hours undulate, reflecting the skyline as one moves through/past the city. Simple functional numerals identify the hours and minutes. In our fast world, visual ease is a welcome design feature,” explains Joyce. With its sleek lines and unobtrusive interface AJO’s design captures timeless elegance. Architecture Joyce Owens Joyce Owens FAIA RIBA 2281 Main Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 239.425.5773 architecturejoyceowens.com Design + Decor

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STOFFT COONEY ARCHITECTs

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his watch design by John Cooney of Stofft Cooney Architects, features a geometric grid of conjoining rectangles. The abstract face was influenced by a contemporary home recently designed and completed by the firm. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were inspired by this home to create a watch face that also showcases the geometry, light and shadow that are indicative of our work,â&#x20AC;? notes John. The hours are marked by perpendicular axes. Reduced to elemental shapes, the design eschews any unnecessary ornamentation in favor of balanced forms and proportion. Watch needles occasionally disrupt the interaction of horizontal and vertical lines with diagonal reach, striking through the grid, sounding a visual chime to mark the hour. Stofft Cooney Architects Randall Stofft John Cooney 633 9th Street North #300 Naples FL, 34102 239.262.7677 stofft.com

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FrontOpener.indd Well of Book Summer 68 2018.indd 1

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DESIGN +DECOR

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A fresh new take on the Mediterranean architectural style for this home in Talis Park

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Modern Mediterranean Lana Knapp of Collins & DuPont Design Group takes coastal transitional to a new level in this award-winning new home in Talis Park Story by Anastasia Storer | Photography by Lori Hamilton

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ollins & DuPont Design Group has been one of Florida’s premier interior design firms for over 30 years. Principal owners Kim Collins and Sherri DuPont have put together a stellar team that is committed to creating the perfect home environment for each and every client. For this project in Naples’ Talis Park golf community, the firm’s Senior Designer Lana Knapp found herself working with one of her regular clients again. “This is the third home I’ve designed for them, so I know them and their lifestyle well,” says Lana. For this home, however, she encouraged the homeowners to try something new. “It was a bit of a challenge at first, because they leaned towards a more traditional look and feel. Like many who come to Florida from other parts of the country, it can be a little scary for clients when you start talking about a modern aesthetic.”

The foyer makes a magnificent statement. Iridescent porcelain bordered by glass tile graces the floor, with a custom, backlit drop-panel ceiling with three flush-mounted crystal light fixtures to heighten the glamour.

As Lana explains, many immediately envision Miami when the word “modern” is mentioned, and “that is a very different style than what you see here in Southwest Florida. Miami style is high-tech, minimalist—even Brutalist. That look doesn’t work in most of the Design + Decor

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The formal dining area is directly off the foyer. Custom ceiling details keep the space from feeling narrow and also frame the table below. A custom light fixture from Italy has independently hung pendants that travel the entire length of the table.

luxury communities here in Naples. I wanted something softer and more comfortable for them—still contemporary, but not harsh.” Once they saw the design start coming together, the clients trusted Lana implicitly, giving her the chance to showcase just how sparkling and lovely the transitional contemporary style can be. The industry certainly agrees. The home has won eight design awards: three Auroras for Best Interior Design, Best Interior Detailing, and Best Bath Design, and five Sand Dollars, including Interior Design of the Year for single-family homes in the $1 million to $1.25 million range. For Love of Fabric Lana credits the textile industry for sparking her talents as an interior designer. “That’s where my love of design started— with fabrics,” she says. “They are beautiful to look at and to touch, and the choices are almost endless. As a teenager, I was already designing and making all my own clothes. There’s something so gratifying—mentally, emotionally and physically— from making something with your own hands. I learned that at an early age, and I cleverly figured out that I could have all the clothes I wanted if, instead of buying them outright, I bought the fabric and made them myself. I even made my prom gown 74

and my date’s tuxedo!” A degree in fashion design came first, but when Lana realized she wanted to make Florida her home, “ we aren’t a big center for fashion design, and once I saw how many similar concepts there were between interior and fashion design, I decided to make the switch.” She got a second degree in interior design and never looked back. “In many ways, I find interior design much more gratifying,” she says. “There’s something very special in helping clients bring their dream home to life.” With her passion for textiles, it’s no surprise that Lana’s process often starts with fabric. “First I’ll talk to the client and find out as much as I can about the family dynamics—who is going to be using what room, who is going to be in the house, and how often. Then I’ll ask how they want to use each and every space in the home.” The answers Lana receives are key to ascertaining the durability needed for furnishings and fabrics. Another aspect of Lana’s love of fabric is her cognizance of, and attention to, the potential for clients to have tactile preferences and other issues that must be considered when choosing fabrics. “All clients have things they love to touch and have next to their skin, and things they don’t,” Lana explains. “But I also

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The spacious kitchen has two extra-large kitchen islands for both food prep and serving/dining options. Interior-lit cabinets bring sparkle and add more visual interest to the room. Mirrored backsplash tile is echoed in the mirrored accents of the exhaust hood over the range.

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The clients chose no television for this room, allowing the incredible custom built-ins and fireplace to take the spotlight, and opening up the room for more conversation and interaction between family and friends.

have clients with tactile issues, where a certain fabric is distracting or unpleasant. I want to know that the fabric choices for, say, the armchair rests, are something the client will want to have their hands and arms resting on.” Lana’s process of deducing client fabric preferences is intuitive; she lets them look at and touch swatches, and carefully watches what fabrics they are attracted to. “I’ll have at least 100 to 200 fabrics, and I just let the clients go through them,” she says. “I want to see what draws their eye in terms of color and pattern, what their hands reach for, and what fabrics they pet.” From there, the winnowing begins, until Lana has her final selections. 21st-Century Mediterranean Lana was fortunate in that the architect chose to put a modern twist on the more traditional Mediterranean style that was very popular before the current contemporary trend began. This gave her the leeway she needed to go fully transitional inside, without clashing with the architectural style of the home itself. The home is clearly influenced by the style, but the lines are cleaner and the colors brighter and on the cool end of the spectrum, something that Lana points out is important for clients to understand when they come to Florida. “In other areas of the country, where more traditional styles are in vogue, the palettes are both darker and warmer. Palettes here lean more towards cool-toned neutrals, and when clients move here, it can take a while for them to realize that the same colors and styles you find in other parts of the country don’t work well here.” 78

A Dash of Color Contemporary means neutral palettes, and this home is no exception. But the key for Lana is balance. “Too much neutral can be bland, or even harsh and cold,” she says. “It needs color to give life to a room.” When just the right amount of color is given to a space, something magical happens. There is, as Lana says, “that beautiful contrast” that catches the eye and the breath. Fabrics are Lana’s primary means of bringing color and vitality to the design, and she is superior at color. The master bedroom is an incredible and beautifully balanced blend of a myriad of blue hues, including the clients’ favorite color: a pale, powdery, barely-there blue used on the walls and the bench at the foot of the bed. Turquoise and teal offer the depths of cool waters and stand out against the paler blues. In contrast, the great room blushes in bright raspberry tones with its accent pillows, the color also peeking out in the threads of the area rug. And the guest bedroom is a sumptuous, soft treasure in mint green and pale heather lavender. But one can’t overlook the other materials Lana made masterful use of for both adding color and enhancing her color palette choices. In the master bedroom, the same brilliant turquoise can be found above, in the sparkling chandelier, the flower rosette painting and the two glass objets d’art on the mirrored dresser. The same holds true in the formal dining room, where

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Nautical stripes are a cheery addition to the powder room.

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Grace and motion mark the master bathroom, which is filled with gentle curvesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from the sloping wall behind the soaking tub that leads to the shower, to the soft waves in the vanity and the trio of oval mirrors, to the spiraling cascade of lights from the chandelier in the ceiling dome.

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Soothing and spectacular in blue, the master bedroom is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. Splashes of deeper teal, shimmery fabrics, and a mirrored dresser soften the room and delight the eye.

the color presents itself again in the pendant light fixtures. Rich dark woods in the study, dining room and foyer add not just color, but warmth and richness to the design. The landscape outside the home also played an important part in Lana’s color choices. “The home’s lot has views of a beautiful body of water and the golf course,” she says. “It’s very lush, with greens and blues, and I wanted the interior to coordinate with the exterior.” Movement and Space The other important aspect of the design was in helping the client scale down. “The second home was three times the size of this one,” she explains. “They were ready for something a little smaller and with less upkeep.” Lana adopted a less-is-more attitude with regard to the design, while accentuating the sensation of spaciousness through clever use of dropped ceilings with backlighting and other features designed to guide the viewer’s gaze. Perhaps the most stunning example of this approach is the master bath, where Lana uses curves, waves and spirals to create a sense of movement and space throughout the room. “I spent a lot Design + Decor

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The clients love to entertain, and the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outdoor living area has room enough for all, including a widescreen television for game days and movie nights.

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of time on this particular room to get the design just right,” Lana explains. “It started as a plain rectangle, and it really felt cramped and boxed in. I took a smidge of space from the closets to open up the room more.” She didn’t take a lot of space, but it was enough for her to work a little magic. She curved the wall behind the soaking tub while also sloping it upwards—which in turn draws the gaze to follow—to meet the domed circle, from which a delicate chandelier rains down in a spiral pattern, like sparkling drops of water. The mirror and peacock feather stylized pattern wall at the back of the shower create a sense of motion and shimmer like decorative raindrops. Lana matched the oval shape of the tub in the trio of vanity mirrors, which flow along the wall in harmony with the soft waves in the vanity ’s countertop edge. Lana’s design for this home truly shows how versatile and lovely the transitional contemporary style can be, and has given her clients a bright, fresh experience in a home that feels good to them. “Interior design is such a personal, intimate business, and it’s wonderful when I hear how happy my clients are with the results,” she says. In this case, the clients are so thrilled and proud that they intend to display replicas of the design awards their home has won!

Resources: Collins & DuPont Design Group Lana Knapp 8911 Brighton Lane Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239-948-2400 collins-dupont.com

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DESIGNING FOR COMMUNITY Luanza Maitland and Sydney Leigh Warren of Norris Furniture & Interiors are the creators behind the interior design of this extraordinary Key Largo model home by Florida Lifestyle Homes. Story by Anastasia Storer | Photography by Blaine Johnathan

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Naples Reserve Key Largo model from Florida Lifestyle Homes received two 2018 Sand Dollar Awards: one for Product Design of the Year, and one for Interior Design of the Year, in the $1.25 million to $1.5 million range.

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The coffered ceiling and dark- wood wall detail define and separate the great room from the dining and kitchen areas. DalTileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Acacia porcelain plank tile, is used throughout the home, and has the look of faded driftwood. The occasional table is by Lexington.

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hat is the purpose of a model home? It exists, of course, as a physical example for potential homeowners to walk through and experience to help them decide whether the home is right for them. But there is far more to a model home than that, says designer Luanza Maitland of Norris Furniture & Interiors. “When Sydney Leigh Warren and I work on a model, we want the design to reflect the lifestyle of the community,” says Luanza. “When someone walks into the home, we want them to not only experience the house itself, we want them to get a feel for the neighborhood and envision their lives there.” The pair also intend the models they design to act as inspiration. “We’ve done our job right if the customer tells us they love the model, but want to change materials and finishes,” Luanza continues. “We want clients to make the home their own, not just a copy of what we’ve done.” Luanza and Sydney have been working together for a number of years, and their paths crossed quite often Design + Decor

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The Leftbank Art painting that inspired the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design takes pride of place in the dining room. The dining table is by Artistica, with chairs from Lexington. A Diamond Lighting chandelier provides a soft, warm glow.

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The Tesoro Cambridge Peacock tile backsplash is highlighted with the use of a lighter -colored grout and all-white cabinetry. Two kitchen islands with Cambria Torquay countertops provide plenty of food preparation and eating space. The simple, sophisticated counter stools are Juliet by Vanguard.

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before fortune brought them both to Norris, where they have been able to create the perfect design partnership. Luanza’s background is in fine art and Sydney ’s is in interior design, so their talents and skills complement one another beautifully. “I was always interested in furniture and color, ever since I was a young girl,” says Luanza. “For me, interior design was just a natural path and a great fit as a career. I like things to be aesthetically pleasing and come together, and I’ve always enjoyed playing with textures and materials.” Luanza’s first design job was with a firm that specialized in working with builders and their model homes. While she has since branched out from there, she and Sydney often find themselves working in that same niche at Norris, as they did with this project in Naples Reserve for Florida Lifestyle homes. “With model homes, we can play a little and use our imaginations,” she says. “We can bring in some things we love, as well as some trendsetting materials and furnishings that aren’t readily available yet. Again, it’s about showing off the home at its best, and wowing and inspiring those who come in.” Their magnificent interior design for the Key Largo model took home this year’s Sand Dollar award for Interior Design of the Year for single-family detached homes in the $1.25 million to $1.5 million range.

Lifestyle-Shaping Design Knowing the community is crucial when designing a model home. “Different communities attract different people,” Luanza says. “Their life focuses will be different, and some of the ways they live will be different, too. You need to know your buyer, what brings them to the community and what appeals to them.” Naples Reserve is a community that appeals to a slightly younger demographic than other luxury communities, with an emphasis on an active outdoor lifestyle and a fun, casual vibe. Residents enjoy water sports on the large private lake, and they love to entertain family, friends and neighbors at their homes. Luanza and Sydney considered all these factors when they began their work. “We wanted it to be comfortable and friendly, and to accentuate how many people you can entertain and enjoy this home with,” Luanza says. “Since the living area is really one big square, we also wanted to find ways to warm it up and define the individual spaces—living, kitchen, dining—without closing anything off.” Florida’s Seascape Palette Emphasizing that outdoor lifestyle is the design’s sea-and-sand palette, which actually began with a painting. Resembling an abstract chrysanthemum, the original artwork hangs in the dining Design + Decor

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Teal glazed ceramic disc plates wall dĂŠcor by Uttermost can be easily moved and reconfigured in this guest bedroom.

This guest bedroomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neutral palette is given an eye-catching boost with a dark teal accent wall.

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Nautical stripes are a cheery addition to the powder room.

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The extra-large walk-in shower in the master bathroom has dual entrances on either side of the soaking tub.

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The master bedroom offers a sanctuary for the homeowners, with pocketed sliding glass doors that open onto the hot tub area of the lanai.

room, where it commands attention from the entire main living area. It’s a heavily textured piece, with thick layers of paint done with a palette knife in eye-catching shades of blue, from pale teal to vivid peacock. “Sydney and I fell in love with this painting,” Luanza says. “It’s audacious and has incredible personality and this sense of swirling movement. But when we found it, it didn’t fit with the project we were working on at the time. So we kept it in the back of our minds, and this project turned out to be the perfect place to use it. That was the beginning of the design.” A hand-thrown pottery tile in deep turquoise as the kitchen backsplash echoes the colors in the painting and makes a bold statement all its own. More teal and turquoise hues are used in the great room’s accent pillows to create a visual connection between the three living spaces. The pair’s design also incorporates the sea blues in all three of the home’s bedrooms in some fashion, whether it’s with the bedding, a textured wallpaper as an accent wall, or the artwork on the walls. The other main component of the home’s color palette is the earthy driftwood-hued flooring, which looks like real wood but is actually a porcelain plank tile. “It’s such a gorgeous color,” says Luanza. “It’s very easy to build off of—it goes with both beige and gray, but also looks lovely with warmer woods.” The color plays beautifully off the dark oak woods and rattan used in the foyer, great room and dining room, but works equally well with the lighter colors in the three bedrooms. It is also a soft

backdrop that highlights the verdant greens and blues of the home’s views of the lake and surrounding landscape. “Because our homes in Florida are so open to the environment,” explains Luanza, “ we often gravitate towards those blues and greens and earth tones to complement what we see through our windows. It’s also a generous, easy-to-live-with palette, and there are many different hues you can endlessly mix and match.” Personality and Light When a truly great design comes together, rooms and homes take on their own personalities, yet still remain part of the whole. “There’s a moment when the design clicks and, after that, it’s just layering and finding the pieces that fit the personality of that space,” Luanza says. Every room in the Key Largo model is unique; even the bathrooms are distinct entities separate from their appointed bedrooms. The master bathroom’s serene, spalike ambience is a perfect match for the soothing master bedroom; the two guest bathrooms are each eclectic, fun rooms for guests to enjoy; and pale teal horizontal stripes lend a breezy nautical note to the home’s powder room. Ceiling details throughout the home also give the rooms their own identities. This was particularly important in the main living area, where Luanza and Sydney worked to create a visual separation for each individual space. Coffered ceilings help define the great room and the kitchen, and the foyer’s tray ceiling is inset with the same dark oak used on the wall. For the master suite, Design + Decor

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The outdoor hot tub has a lovely view of the entire outdoor pool and living area, and a fountain feature that adds a relaxing audial ambiaence to the backyard yard. RaisedFurniture platforms offerbed a charming pathLeather across paneled the water, and Century Omni and Garrett headboard separate a shallow wading area from the rest of the pool.

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a tongue-and-groove cathedral-style ceiling in the bedroom and an octagonal inverted ceiling in the master bath give both rooms a more formal, glamorous atmosphere. Light is another way Luanza and Sydney bring personality to a room. Their exquisite choices in lighting fixtures can elevate a space—such as the intriguing fixture used in the dining room—or be a much more subtle addition, as with the pair of pendants over the kitchen island. “Light fixtures can be a statement all their own,” says Luanza. “The one we chose for the dining room is stunning. The hexagons look like a translucent shell material, but they ’re actually resin and have a beautiful glow.” The designers also found ways to play up the natural light from the home’s many windows. “We are very conscious of reflective surfaces. We love the play of natural sunlight on shimmery tile and countertops—even high-gloss paint can give that reflective quality that allows us to accentuate a space or material.” Luanza notes the importance of mirror placement in the home to help enhance light. “Mirrors do reflect light,” she says, “but you want to make sure you’re reflecting something beautiful, not just the light glare.” Luanza and Sydney ’s interior design for the Key Largo home perfectly captures the casual, easygoing and fun atmosphere of the Naples Reserve community. It offers up plenty of inspiration and ideas to help the discerning home buyer create a home that is unique to their family and lifestyle. The designer duo’s work on this Key Largo model makes us eagerly anticipate what they will offer next to the Southwest Florida design industry.

Resources: Norris Furniture and Interiors Luanza Maitland Sydney Leigh Warren 14125 South Tamiami Trail Fort Myers, FL 33912 239.690.9844 norrisfurniture.com

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CONTEMPORARY COMFORT ON THE SEASHORE Kira KrÃ¼mm and Koastal Design Group give an older condo on Crescent Beach a much-needed modernization. Story by Anastasia Storer | Photography by Blaine Johnathan

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“T

he voice of the sea speaks to the soul,” wrote author Kate Chopin, and from time immemorial, we have been drawn to the liminal space between land and sea, the sand-covered shore where we inevitably build on or near in order to be close to the ocean waves.

A pair of custom-made sofas flank a custom ottoman upholstered in a metallic vinyl fabric, with Old Biscayne Designs’ (OBD) Aqua Pearl finish for the wood base and legs. The two electric recliner chairs were upholstered in a seafoam-hued woven fabric to match the ottoman and the custom cornices that hide the electronic solar shades.

Amongst southwest Florida communities, Marco Island remains something of a hidden gem, with a quiet, more relaxed vibe and atmosphere than the towns further north up the coastline like Naples and Bonita Springs. “The people who live here tend to be very casual and low-key, and the views here are simply spectacular,” says Kira Krümm, principal of Koastal Design Group, who lives on Marco Island herself and is always pleased when she has the opportunity to breathe new life into a home here. “Many of the properties, particularly the condominiums, were built a couple of decades or more ago, and it’s a real joy when I have a client who wants me to renovate and update one. In many ways, my clients are my muses and with this project, I absolutely loved working with Mrs. Cummings; she and I had very symbiotic tastes in interior design that made Design + Decor

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everything so much fun for the both of us as we worked in collaboration to bring this design to life.” Coastal Focus Kira has been creating beautiful interiors for coastal properties for much of her career, and she has been interested in art and design ever since she was a young girl. Both of her parents were artists, and her father was also an architect. “He’s the one who really encouraged me to get into interior design,” she says. “As a teenager, I was leaning towards being an artist and fashion designer, but after talking with my dad, I decided to look elsewhere for a career that would let me use my creativity and artistic talents and skills. I landed on interior design, so from the time I was 15, I knew that was what I was going to be.” That early level of commitment to the career meant that by the time she graduated from college with her BFA in Interior Design, she had already interned and worked for several design firms, and she was ready to step out on her own. “I started my own business right after graduation, in Virginia Beach, where I was doing both residential as well as commercial work.” She relocated to the Naples area in 2000, and has been designing interiors throughout southwest Florida ever since, giving her nearly twenty years of experience in the region’s trends and architectural styles. She has garnered more than 45 industry honors and awards for her designs throughout her career, and her work has been seen in numerous national and international publications. 100

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Renovation and Renewal This project’s condo building was built in 1998, when the predominant architectural style and the way we shaped the interiors of our homes were both quite different. “These older condos are basically concrete boxes,” Kira says. The architecture was common at the time, and resulted in homes with individual rooms and separated spaces that feel closed-in and cramped, not at all reflective of today ’s open lifestyle. Addressing the space planning was Kira’s first task. “No one wants box rooms now, everyone wants to enjoy the main living area together. You want to be able to see and talk to the person in the kitchen while you’re in the living room, and vice versa.” By simply removing the wall that separated the kitchen from the dining room, Kira was able to open up the main living area, allowing the entire space to benefit from the natural light from the windows – and the views of Crescent Beach. “The view is the star of the show,” Kira says. “I created my design to emphasize that. The colors and textures you see outside are reflected inside. I wanted to create visual continuity between the external view and the interior design.” Kira modernized and completely reconfigured the kitchen to maximize the space and create a better flow from the far wall and breakfast nook through the kitchen itself and on into the rest of the living area.

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The kitchen was opened up to the main living area, creating a single sight line from the entry through the kitchen to the ocean view. The contemporary chandelier over the table provides a focal point for the dining area.

Koastal Style The clients had seen some of Kira’s previous work and were attracted to her hallmark Koastal aesthetic. “When I meet with clients, one of the things I tell them is that I’m not there to dictate style,” Kira explains. “But I do have some fundamental philosophies that influence all of my designs. My work is known for clean, light backgrounds, with accents of organic materials inspired by the beauty of our natural coastal environment to add warmth and texture.” Here, it’s the French oak flooring that brings that warmth, and Kira’s textural choices – as in the fabric of the breakfast bar chairs, the custom-built ottoman in the great room, and the area rugs throughout the condo – are masterful, conjuring up the look and feel of sand and shore.

The breakfast nook has a breathtaking view of Marco Island’s Crescent Beach.

Kira prefers to use neutral hues for her background colors because of their timelessness and versatility, adding blues and greens as accent colors. And when it comes to windows, another of Kira’s fundamentals is that she doesn’t want to cover them up, preferring to take a minimalist approach with regards to any window treatments. “I want to let in as much light and view as possible,” she says. “Of course, we have to have window coverings for those times when the client needs privacy, but I like to keep them as unobtrusive and hidden as possible so as not to detract or obscure the view.” Throughout the condo, you’ll find no draperies at all, even in the two bedrooms. Valances and shades are minimal and clean, often in neutral colors that help them to blend in and Design + Decor

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The master suite is designed as a tranquil retreat with a subdued, cool, neutral palette. Soft, luxurious custom bedding in cappuccino taupe fabric is complemented by modern geometric patterns and an ivory nightstand and dresser. A cozy sitting area overlooking the gulf welcomes you, and a woven gray and metallic grasscloth wallcovering makes a lasting impression.

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In the master bathroom, his-and-hers vanities and an extralarge walk-in shower create a spa-like ambience. A custom tiled wall in the shower with a faded ombre pattern and faceted glass tile accents add a modern touch.

vanish from the eye. In the great room, where the clients watch television and thus occasionally want to block the sun and darken the room, this meant Kira wanted to find a way to hide the electronic solar shades. The solution? Custom-built cornices in a muted seafoam hue that complements the color of the matching reclining chairs and sofa accent pillows. Clever Design Kira’s design abounds with clever, unique details. In the great room, a dropped panel ceiling was added, both to allow the ceiling fan to be centered over the seating area as well as to hide the necessary electrical needed for the fan and the new cove and recessed lighting. “The client has granular control over the lighting here,” Kira says. “They can elect to turn off all the lights and leave only the cove lighting on, which really adds a lovely ambiance to the space in the evenings.” The clients wanted to be able to watch TV in the great room, but Mrs. Cummings didn’t want it to visually dominate the space, so Kira had a custom entertainment unit built with a beautiful 104

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hand-painted finish by Old Biscayne Designs. The unit’s central doors, instead of opening outward, slide left and right to reveal or hide the television as needed. And for relaxing while watching TV, directly opposite the entertainment unit, Mr. Cummings asked for recliner chairs. “I confess Mrs. Cummings cringed just a little when he said that,” laughs Kira, “but we found these fully motorized reclining chairs with a great design, and we had them done in a seafoam-hued woven fabric to match the rest of the room. They are incredibly comfortable, and turned out amazing!” In the master bath, not only did Kira eliminate a wall that used to bisect the space, she also placed the his-and-hers vanities on the outside wall, with windows above. “I wanted the clients to be able to see out of the windows when they are in the bathroom,” says Kira. “But of course, you need a mirror. So we placed the mirrors on the side of each vanity. They open towards you, allowing you to open them when you need a mirror, and otherwise keep them closed.” The central cabinet between the two vanities creates an optical illusion, due to its mirror reflecting the reflection

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The guest suite draws you in with its rich fabrics and textures. The banana leaf woven bed and pale bluegreen walls are inspired by the beautiful Florida coast.

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The condoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s balcony offers an incredible view of the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the perfect spot for an evening dinner or cocktails al fresco, with the sound of waves and salty smell of the sea for company.

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of its twin cabinet directly across from it. Not only is the visual alluring to the eye, it adds a touch of fun to the space. There is one last little clever detail that can’t be overlooked, and it’s not what you’d expect: the bedding in the master bedroom. What’s so special? The bed linens are made of wood. Part of Kira’s exclusive Koastal Kollection, these eco-friendly linens are actually made from 100% organic wood fiber. “The wood is harvested from carefully-managed forests, and is completely biodegradable,” explains Kira. “It’s manufactured in Europe following strict EU stands and procedures. A mix of Italian Birch and Beachwood are pulped, then spun and woven like cotton, giving this amazing textile a smooth, supple feel. It has the same luxurious look and feel as silk, but with the easy care of cotton. And unlike bamboo bedding, these sheets won’t lose their softness with repeated washings.” From its heavily-decorated, outdated and traditional beginnings, Kira’s new design for this waterfront condo is bright, airy, and open. Like a fresh ocean breeze, the formal, cramped atmosphere is gone, replaced with a relaxed, casual ambiance and a sophisticated style that makes the condo the perfect seasonal beach retreat for the clients. Kira’s design beautifully executes the contemporary transitional style – clean and sleek, but still with millwork details and cabinetry panels that offer a subtle nod to more classical, traditional elements.

Resources: Koastal Design Group Kira Krümm & Company Kira Krümm 707 12th Avenue South Naples, FL 34102 239.992.5586 koastaldesigngroup.com

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PROFILE

Engineered Quartz Industry Upheaval

What You Need to Know Story by Anastasia Storer

ngineered quartz has become one of the most popular material choices for kitchens and baths due to its superiority to marble in terms of durability and stain resistance. Unlike 100% natural quartz, which has some of the same weaknesses as other natural stone products, engineered quartz is a man-made product composed of approximately 90% to 97% natural quartz, which is then mixed with resins and pigments to create the finished product. Last year, homeowners who wanted to use engineered quartz in their home got an unexpected and unpleasant surprise, as the product experienced extreme fluctuations in price, with some varieties and colors simply becoming unavailable. “We had a lot of confused clients,” says Tyra Dellacroce, vice president of interior sales and marketing at Connecticut Stone. “We’ve seen clients who were planning their budget around a specific price, only to come back weeks later to find the price had increased or, in some cases, that the style and color they had chosen was no longer available.” Previously, homeowners and interior designers didn’t worry much about availability or price instability when it came to engineered quartz; because it’s a man-made product, the assumption was that, other than the normal annual price changes and discontinuation of

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some products, it would always be readily available. All that changed last year, however. Why? “The situation we have now is the culmination of two different factors affecting the market,” Tyra explains. “The first is a ruling made by the U.S.’s International Trade Commission (ITC). The second is the current trade war between the U.S. and China.” A Little History The ITC ruling is the result of a case filed by Cambria, a U.S.-based engineered quartz manufacturer. In April of 2018, Cambria filed a petition asking for anti-dumping and countervailing duties to be imposed on imports of quartz surface products originating from the People’s Republic of China. In layman’s terms, that means that quartz manufacturers in China had been receiving significant subsidies from the Chinese government, which allowed them to export and sell their products in the U.S. at a significantly reduced cost. This gave them an unfair advantage over both domestic companies like Cambria and manufacturers from elsewhere in the world who export engineered quartz products to the U.S., such as Silestone, whose headquarters is in Spain, and Israel’s Caesarstone.

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After conducting its investigation, the ITC ruled that Cambria was correct, and it imposed retroactive tariffs on these Chinese companies. That created the first wave of industry disruption and price fluctuations. Trade War Completely separate from the ITC investigation and ruling is the current and ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China. In September 2018, imported Chinese engineered quartz, along with thousands of other products, began to be subject to a 10% tariff. This created a second wave of disruption and price fluctuation. A second 25% tariff was scheduled to go into effect in January of 2019, but it is currently on hold while China and the U.S. are in negotiations. What’s Next? These two issues have caused serious disruption in the engineered quartz industry simply because a significant percentage of the products on the market here in the U.S. were in fact imported from China. “We don’t have exact numbers,” says Adam Weinberg, general manager of Cosentino Boston, “but in 2017, the dollar value of imported Chinese quartz was around $460 million. Last year it was over $600 million.” “Engineered quartz production is already moving from China to other countries, such as Taiwan, India and Vietnam,” continues Adam. “We expect to see a lag in supply as new production lines are set up and any kinks are worked out—generally, you see a high rejection rate with 110

new production due to various issues. We’re also anticipating pricing to be higher than what we saw from China due to the difference in labor and shipping costs.” What does this mean for the homeowner? According to Adam, there is still a glut of Chinese quartz inventory, so it will be four to six months before the final effects of the disruption and changes are seen here. At this point, it would be wise to ask the source of any engineered quartz product you’re considering so you can plan accordingly. Tyra recommends that homeowners who find a Chinese quartz product they like and want to purchase it as soon as possible to ensure it’s still available for their project. Resource: Connecticut Stone Tyra Dellacroce 138 Woodmont Road Milford, CT 06460 203.882.1000 connecticutstone.com Cambria cambriausa.com Cosentino cosentino.com

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The League Club presents Naples Tables

he League Club will make a bold move by introducing a new format to the perennially favorite fundraising luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, on March 11, 2019. Naples Tables, Celebrating Style, Food and Fun, a New-to-Naples event promises a new stunningly beautiful format, showcasing over 60 professionally designed tables with unique celebration themes. The one-of-a-kind club is known for innovation and its commitment to community. Fundraising Chair, Jane Stone, and President Charlene Barnette are the creative forces behind the Naples debut of the new format, having collaborated on design projects in their Junior League of Indianapolis. Modeled after similar successful affairs in other cities, Naples Tables will feature elegant and whimsical tabletops created by award-winning local and national designers. When the doors open at 10:30 a.m. guests will mingle with friends, view the fabulous tables and meet the designers who created them. Each designer who participates in Naples Tables will be able to showcase their creativity to 600 luncheon guests and speak about potential new business opportunities. A Naples Tables Resource Book describing each of the designers will go home with each guest for future reference. At noon, guests will be seated at one of the beautiful tables and enjoy a delicious Southern themed luncheon created by the RitzCarlton chefs.

Since Naples Tables is all about celebrating style, food and fun, there could be no more appropriate keynote speaker than James Farmer, a lifestyle expert and author of eight best-selling books. Southern born and bred, Farmer’s work has been published in Southern Living, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Home, Southern Lady, Country Living, Flower and more. A frequent guest on television and radio, Farmer’s natural Southern grace and warm personality light up any room. Farmer masterfully guides his audience through the art of graceful living. James Farmer says, “I want our clients to love being home, or longing to be, in a very personal and lovely space whether it is a place for solitude or company.” The League Club annually produces one major fundraiser for its Community Trust Fund from which grants are distributed to strengthen communities in Collier and Lee Counties. Over the past 32 years, more than $4.2 million in grants have been awarded through a carefully vetted grant process to support the environment, education, children and families. The League Club, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization of women in southwest Florida strengthening communities through fellowship, education, volunteerism and philanthropy. The League Club is open to women who have been or still are active members of a Junior League that is a member of the Association of Junior Leagues International. For more information visit www.LeagueClub.org Design + Decor

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PROFILE

Navy Wassily Chair with Gold Frame Marcel Breuer 1925 $4,587

Four Seasons Stool with Antique Bronze Ludwig Mies van der Rohe 1958 $4,077

Flat Bar Brno with Antique Bronze Ludwig Mies van der Rohe 1930 $4,686

80 Years of Knoll

he new year marks the Bauhaus centennial, celebrating 100 years of influential art and design. The Bauhaus centennial comes on the heels of the 80th anniversary of Knoll. Both milestones embody the vision of Knoll founders, Hans and Florence Knoll, to bring the beauty, functionality, and benefits of modern design to the way we live and work. Knoll continues to produce some of the most iconic pieces designed by Bauhaus founding masters Marcel Breuer, Mies van der Rohe, Anni Albers, among others. The company’s strong tie to the Bauhaus revolves around Florence Knoll. She was mentored by Mies van der Rohe, who brought from the Bauhaus to the Illinois Institute of Technology the concept of gesamtkunstwerk - the total work of art. Florence Schust “Shu” Knoll brought this idea to Knoll by establishing the Planning unit, which worked on large corporate projects, placing Knoll furniture in architectural spaces in order to achieve the ultimate goal of creating inspiring work environments for clients. In this sense, the company is founded upon the idea that furniture design is only valuable insofar as it contributes to and speaks to the overall design of a space. Even

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the furniture she designed herself was envisioned as parts of a larger spatial whole - she referred to them as the “meat and potatoes” that had to be designed as solutions to larger problems of spatial planning. Over the course of her career, Florence Knoll translated the Bauhaus idea of the total work of art to the American public and corporate world of the 1950s and 1960s. She helped define American Modernism and set a precedent for design that is holistic rather than objectfocused. The Bauhaus approach combines industrial materials and modern forms. Florence Knoll understood this idea of modern and had an extremely exacting eye - determining proportions, angles, materials and other details down to the most minute level. For its 80th Anniversary, Knoll reimagined a selection of Bauhaus classics, adding a new palette of fabrics and finishes to the Wassily Chair, MR Side Chair, Brno Chair, Four Seasons Stool, and Flat Bar Brno. knoll.com

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