DESIGN +DECOR
THE FLORIDA EDITION
THE ARCHITECTS ISSUE
DISPLAY UNTIL 05/09/22
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DESIGN +DECOR
THE FLORIDA EDITION
WINTER 2022
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A PUZZLING ENDEAVOR
Turning a two-unit penthouse into one grand space required teamwork and a big vision. Story by Heather Shoning Photography by Michael Alan Kaskel
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HARMONY TIMELESSNESS FUNCTIONALITY 2022 Annual Architects Issue Story by Meryl Siegman
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A MIX OF STRONG AND SOFT IN NAPLES
Well-known interior designer Wilfredo Emanuel turns a temporary home into a beacon of his personal style. Story by Heather Shoning Photography by Naples Kenny
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Publisher’s Letter In The Field Profile
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WHITE GLOVE SERVICE | IMPECCABLE SELECTION Naples’ Largest Selection of Tibetan and Nepalese Rugs, specializing in Custom Creations Thousands of Hand-Knotted Oriental Rugs Exclusive Stark Studio Collections Sisals | Traditional, Transitional & Contemporary Wall-To-Wall Carpeting from Rosecore, Antrim, Fabrica & More Exclusive Outdoor Carpet by STANTON
732 U.S. 41 North, Naples
(1 Block South of Bentley Dealership)
Read our Reviews at www.DesignersRugCenter.com
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DESIGN +DECOR WINTER 2022 Editor-in-Chief Matthew J. Kolk mattkolk@me.com 203-820-1092 Contributing Writers Deborah Brannon, Lisa Gant, Susan Heller, Pam Gersh, Sean Jarvis, Ross Robinson, Meryl Siegman, Anna von Stelzer-Worth, 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 Managers Jane O’Reilly Mara Skowronek Kelly Ames Smith Design + Decor 349 Forest Hills Blvd Naples, Florida 34113
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, 349 Forest Hills Blvd 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 349 Forest Hills Blvd Naples, Florida 34113 DD-MAG.COM
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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e have been up to a lot during this crazy time, and it has been about moving the ball forward with our publications to become one of constant innovation and increased visualization of your brand in the marketplace. We are extremely proud of what we have accomplished over the past year-and-a-half and I am sure that you will see the value in what we have been up to and the new changes we have added.
Let’s start with our newsstand distribution. We have worked tirelessly over the past 18 months and the results are clear. With our Florida book, we have just concluded a massive newsstand push to increase our presence and we are now, with this issue a major force on the newsstand increasing our reach to include an international presence. The Florida Edition is now distributed from as far west as Hawaii to as far north as Montreal to as far south as all of the state of Florida. In this expansion, your brand will not only go to all of your clients in Florida, but all of the major markets from where they are coming from. This doesn’t end with the Florida book, We have also increased the newsstand presence for the New York Book as well. The CT/NJ/NY Edition of Design in Decor is now the largest regional shelter publication on newsstands in the tri-state area, something that is extremely difficult to obtain and we are very proud of this accomplishment. It doesn’t stop there. We have just relaunched our website and revamped our social media platforms to allow our clients an increased opportunity to interact with our readers through a variety of opportunities. In the coming months you will be seeing video, blogs and native features and curated e-mail blasts. Sign up on our website to receive the latest in design tips, trends and all of the new products coming to market in real time. We have also incorporated Geo-fencing opportunities for our clients, allowing them to pin-point where they would like their message to go. We have made all of these opportunities to allow us to be a complete media solution to increase awareness to your brand and message. Here’s to a great 2022, we are certainly starting the year off with a bang!
Shelley McCormick Cheers,
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MELANGE
THE CURATED EYE International Design Source (IDS) is a to the trade showroom that works exclusively with interior designers. IDS provides resources and ideas required for the trade. Their showrooms boost exclusive brands for fabric, furnishing and art. IDS teamed up with four multi-faceted interiors designers to look thru their eye on curating some furnishing ideas for the home. From Coastal, Modern, Traditional, Transitional IDS1.COM
DENISE FOGARTY
DENISEFOGARTYINTERIORS.COM
Magnolia Hanging Pendant by PalecekYou can never go wrong with Palecek, especially when it comes to lighting. The Magnolia Pendant is ideal for coastal spaces, and is a subtle statement piece in any room. I have this in my own home and I treasure it!
Make It Yours Envision Sectional by Vanguard Clients appreciate the customizable elements of this gorgeous piece: you can select every detail, from the finish on the wooden feet to the seam on the cushions. This is a great sectional for larger spaces or a beach condo!
Ava Cocktail Table by Vanguard A A staple for almost any space, this cocktail table features an interesting scalloped edge and brings emphasis to the room with its depth and solid stature.
Hickory Chair Suzanne Kasler I originally scouted this piece at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Palm Beach, and then again in the Hickory Chair showroom in Naples. I highly recommend this sectional for its style and durability. The low-profile design is perfect for maximizing comfort and space in a smaller condo or home.
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LYNDSEY DAVIS NICKLAS L-DESIGNSTUDIOS.COM Century: Emerge Brass Lamp Table A fabulous addition to any space, this accent table can add funk or elegance to a room, depending on how it is styled. The warm antique brass hues can be layered, and they work well with different metal finishes and textures throughout the room.
Palecek: Cassidy Chandelier The Cassidy Chandelier brings a soft texture and ambience to a space when lit. The light cream abaca roping gives a great coastal feeling, with an interesting band detail on the drum adding charm.
Hickory Chair: Tete-A-Tete Chase We just love the fresh edge Hickory Chair is giving its Tete chaise. The squared lines and metal base offer a sleek modern/industrial feel, but still allow for comfort when cuddling and reading a book. Add some vibrant pillows, and this piece is quite the eye-catcher.
CHANTEL WARMOTH HILLARY DISABATO KNOTANDTIDEINTERIORS.COM
PALECEK: Aries Lounge Chair Coastal design is more than just color. Texture and layers play a huge role when it comes to a cohesive coastal design. That’s why this lounge chair is the perfect accent for any living room. The rattan frame and legs add a natural palette, softened by its upholstery. Layer it with an accent pillow and cozy throw blanket.
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VANGUARD: Baja Console We absolutely adore this coastal console for any foyer or entryway. The mix of abaca rope detailing combined with silver accents is truly a statement piece! Pair it with skirted ottomans and a family picture gallery to add a coastal, inviting space for all your family and friends!
CENTURY: Town + Country Table Don’t know about you, but we LOVE to entertain! This oversize 60-inch round table is the perfect casual piece for including everyone in the conversation. The blonde wood finish and planked, diamond tabletop adds a design element ready to be wined and dined on.
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NAN WRIGHT
WRIGHTINTERIOR.COM
Palecek: Isabel Chandelier A classic shape reimagined with natural coconut tiles defines this chandelier as both modern and coastal, making it perfect for many design styles.
Palecek: Chloe Lava Coffee Table A clam shell top sets apart this dramatic, organic cocktail table. The contrast of the dark surround and light top will punctuate any room.
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Palecek: Warren Lounge Chair This is a head-turning statement chair! The interesting geometric shapes are modern, while the texture and finish give it a West Indies feel.
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IN THE FIELD
Photo: Adelyn Charles
LOOKING AHEAD Industry Experts Predict This Year’s Design Trends Story by Jessa Gilberto
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s we’ve been forced to slow down and spend more time in our homes, it’s become imperative to create a space that’s not only comfortable, but stylish and current. With this in mind, we asked the area’s top design professionals to predict the biggest trends in home design for 2022. If you’re planning to renovate your home or redecorate your living space, these ideas might offer a breath of fresh air. D+D: What style and materials will gain popularity in kitchens? Alina Guzowska, Marketing Communications Manager New Style Cabinets New Style Cabinets, based in Chicago, opened a showroom in Naples in the fall of 2021. The firm has been in the industry for more a decade, and its cabinetry and millwork are crafted in-house. With a key eye for craftsmanship and use of the highest quality materials, New Style Cabinets designs one-of-a-kind products that stand the test of time. Alina: We’re going to see a combination of different materials being used together, and clients playing with a variety of finishes and textures to create a custom appeal. Cabinetry pieces are becoming more artistic, and they ’re being finished with natural woods like walnut and oak, and accessorized with glass and wire mesh. Clients might still feel hesitant to go with oak on their cabinets because it reminds them of the ‘90s, but what we’ve seen being done with it super exciting.
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Photos: Naples Kitchen and Bath
I’ve also noticed that clients who are leaning towards traditional decor aren’t going for heavy, ornamental styles of cabinetry— they ’re looking for something a little lighter. It’s more likely they ’ll use the inset style rather than a full overlay style when choosing cabinetry doors. Overall, kitchen cabinetry is a long-term investment, and people spending all that money want something that’s going to last. The pandemic has increased the importance of having a large gathering space where you can cook and spend time with family and friends. Kitchens have more importance than ever before. Brandy Carrejo, Design Consultant Naples Kitchen & Bath Naples Kitchen & Bath, located in the heart of the construction and design district in Naples, specializes in creating custom spaces that suit the lifestyle and budget of its clients in a one-stopshop experience. Its 4,000-square-foot showroom is stocked with high-quality products from the top manufacturers in the industry. Brandy: Quartzite is here to stay. It’s a great material to use because it’s strong, durable and easy to maintain, especially compared to marble. Its patterns have a subtle movement to them, and clients like the lighter colors. As a result, granite countertops could start to fade out, as they tend to be darker and a bit busier. Countertops made from natural stone materials are being taken the whole way up the wall to create slab backsplashes. They evoke a seamless, uninterrupted look and a different visual effect than traditional tile and grout. Natural materials work for both traditional 34
kitchens and more modern and contemporary kitchens. D+D: How will comfort and functionality play a role in outdoor spaces? Catherine Baker, Senior Interior Designer Clive Daniel Clive Daniel is a multi-award-winning luxury furniture showroom and interior design studio, with locations in Naples, Sarasota and Boca Raton. The company offers furniture, accessories and interior design services for residential, hospitality and commercial spaces. Catherine: Be it the back patio or lanai, outdoor spaces are a major part of life in Southwest Florida, and what’s happened in recent years has also made them important in other parts of the country—even where there’s a cooler climate. Outdoor spaces are developing into actual living rooms, and will be used for more than a place to cook on the grill or eat dinner. Comfort and functionality will be key. These elements are paramount in any space, whether it’s indoor or outdoor. Southwest Florida is the place to exhale and relax. We want to sink in, put up our feet and unwind. That’s why I always take clients to sit on different pieces of furniture—then we work our way from there. Once we’ve nailed comfort, we focus on making sure the space functions within the client’s lifestyle. We’ll continue to see outdoor spaces serve as a continuation of the inside environment.
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D+D: What colors or shapes can we expect to see more of? Alex Thies, Owner & Lead Designer Adelyn Charles Interiors Adelyn Charles Interiors is a full-service design firm rooted in the principle of form meets function. It partners with clients and leads them through the entire building process, from the initial planning stages through construction completion, offering guidance and expertise along the way. Alex: Darker, moodier colors. We’re going to move away from all-white kitchens and see dark wood accents, punches of deeper, charcoal grays, and blues for accent walls. These colors accentuate some of the architectural detail and make the eyes stop and look. When it comes to darker colors, the key is to not go overboard. It’s better to use it in small pops. So, for example, if the whole room is white, you might do the ceiling dark. Or, maybe all the walls are light and the room is light, and you throw blue velvet pillows onto a white couch. It’s all about balancing the light and the dark and making it smaller proportionally to the light pieces. That way it has a chance to stand out, while not darkening the whole room. As for shapes, in the past we were going into these older Mediterranean-style houses, getting rid of all the arches and squaring everything off. But the curve is becoming sexier and a little bit more contemporary. You can still have an arched doorway, but without all the old molding and detailing that we used to have. A clean drywall opening can be juxtaposed by the sharp corner of the contemporary design around it. It makes it fun and light, and not so boring or heavy!
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Catherine Baker Clive Daniel Catherine: Stronger pastels and darker, more intense colors. We’re leaning into variations of brown, which we have not seen for many, many years. Gray is still here, but it’s not as common as it was awhile back. I’ve also seen warmer or “sunset” colors on the fabric samples we’re receiving, though they ’re not as popular yet among clients. I still advise using a natural background and then popping your color with art, lamps, rugs and accessories. The next time you redo your house, it won’t be as labor intensive to make color changes. D+D: What window types are on the upswing? Mario Valle, Senior Relationship Manager PBS Contractors PBS Contractors builds and remodels luxury homes and commercial construction projects throughout Southwest Florida. It has more than 35 years of general contracting experience, and is the only builder in Naples to have the reputation of “concierge builder.” Mario: Clients who have properties on the water want to use large picture windows that are more commonly seen in commercial construction. They ’re also gravitating towards floor-to-ceiling windows that give the appearance of a glass wall. These types of windows allow an abundance of natural light into the home and blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. D+D: What unique or out-of-the-box interior design trends
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should we be on the lookout for? Jeff Schreier Schreier Interior Schreier Interior has been leading the industry in design, coast to coast, for 26 years. Jeff ’s headquarters recently moved to the Naples Design District area. Jeff: I’ve seen antique furniture or heirlooms that are intricate and hand carved being turned into modern pieces. Take an old chair, for 40
example. Instead of leaving it with a stuffy mahogany wood finish and a brocade, throw on a contemporary wood finish, a metal leafing and fabric to give it a really cool revamp. It’s the kind of thing you’d expect to see in an apartment in New York City. I’d like to see us move towards the idea that great interior design is not a “trend”—it’s about listening to your clients and creating a space that truly reflects who they are. They want and deserve to stand out for their uniqueness, and in following a trend you risk blending in with everyone else. It’s time to leave behind disposable design culture and return to placing value on quality craftsman-
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Custom Selections by Schreier Interiors
ship and timelessness, which have no expiration date. D+D: Overall, what is your biggest prediction for 2022? Lisa Gilmore, Principal Designer Lisa Gilmore Design Based out of the St. Petersburg area, Lisa Gilmore Design works to capture the unique personality and lifestyle of its clients to create functional, one-of-a-kind spaces. The company serves individual clients and luxury builders nationally and internationally.
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Lisa: My biggest prediction is maintaining patience while we manage supply chain backups and labor shortages. On a positive note, I think these issues have brought back a great appreciation and understanding for the work being done in our industry. Good things take time, and it’s the same when it comes to building and designing a home. It shouldn’t be a fast, need-it-yesterday mentality. I also hope this year sheds light on the artisans and true talent who deserve to be recognized.
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MELANG In the Fie
Accessorizing is such a key element in the final design pro- Resources: GWT of Trays: Where tanna wouldDesign we be Associates, without tray!Outdoors Trays areand, funcSchreierthe Interior cess—it’s the icing on the cake, exposing your creativity and tional, resourceful course, Homes Naples. Ultimately, The ColandKurtz elegant, and they have an abundance of 26 Tenth Street South expressing your personality. It’s not just filling up every shelf Newpurpose lective willarefeature additional businesses, as and style. They perfect forFLyour candles and such florals, Style Cabinets Naples 34102 with your favorite treasures and trinkets, but being thoughtful 3601 interior design studios, furniture companies, and allowing an ottoman to become a cocktail table, and are easily Arnold Ave #B 651.442.6879 and processed as to what and where. Be highly curated with your Naples, that complement the existing moved around. other related firms FL 34104 schreierinterior.com accessorizing: we evolve and change, and so should your home. 239.643.5661 tenants. While changing a full room can be timely and costly, keeping newstylecabinets.com What’s trending right now in flooring? Lisa Gilmore Designs your rooms fresh and current can be done with accessories. While Randy sees669 development 1st Ave Northprojects like The Collective as a way of deepening his roots in the Jack Walsh Trade Showroom Adelyn Charles St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Pillows are an easy addition, adding comfort and pops of color, 3920 Naples community, his priority will always be Jeremy Walsh Via Del Rey Suite 3 .727.201.8902 textures and layers to your rooms. Think of the fabrics you use Bonita Kurtz Homes Naples and continuing foundaOiled natural wood flooring for any style room popular— Springs, FL 34134 lisagilmoredesign.com isthe and what effect or feel you are trying to achieve: heavy velvets, 239.734.0449 tionhardwood, his father which laid. “Iis hope we continue things especially natural trending with biophilic suedes and leathers add depth and weight, linens and cottons adelyncharles.com the way been doing for 38 years,” says designs. We have lotswe’ve of requests forthem wide-plank hardwood add an airy organic feel, and silks add a sumptuous, elegant feel. floors, which make Randy, who is delighted so many family rooms look larger that and more open and memoffer Don’t just settle for a fabric—add some fun with trims and Clive bers are innothematter business. family is a realOak big something your“My design sensibility. Daniel for everyone, tapes, and layer your pillows. part of my life. It’s great to have some of them as is one of the most durable species, with a tight, dark grain that 2777 Tamiami Trail North part of the Kurtz Team.” works in almost any room, in any stain. Maple is the second Naples, FL 34103 Here are my accessory must-haves: most popular hardwood, because it has a predictable pattern 239.261.4663 Nancy, continues to be involved and color, with Randy a hint’sofmother, character. Today ’s most popular colors Coffee-table books: They are essential and a great way to dis- 1351 with the business. His two daughters, Carolyn and areNW grayBoca andRaton gray muted stains, white and light natural wood. Boulevard play your interests and personality. There are no “right” books; Boca Raton, FL 33432 Elizabeth, work in client relations and marketing, choose travel, fashion, couture, design, interiors, architecture, 561.440.4663 Carolyn’s husband, Gordon,direct is a projThe advantagesand of an oiled surface areDavid the pleasant conart, hobbies…the list is endless. Hardback books add color and tact with the wood, ect manager. Carolyn andtheDavid’s children, the smoothness, abilitythree to repair the conversation and can be flanked by some fabulous bookends or 3075 Noah, Isla and Lucy are often in the Kurtz offices, affected area without working on the whole surface, and the Fruitville Commons Boulevard stacked on a cocktail table or shelf. and Noah is even listed on the website as a future positive room climate created by the exchange of moisture. Sarasota, FL 34240 employee. Hisinto startthe date? Theflooring year 2035. Natural oiled surfaces soak wood and provide 941.900.4663 Sculptures and ornaments: These add precision, flow and state- clivedaniel.com the necessary robustness from the inside out. However, lacments, depending on size and matter, and they also show an quered surfacesResource: represent sealing the wood floors on top, and avocation or passion. They are another great way of adding tex- PBSareContractors often obtained through several layers of lacquer. The wood Kurtz Homes Naples tures and layers. Create vignettes or show as a collection on 4395 underneath lacquer layer is usually left untreated. Corporate the Square an entry table or console to create vast interest and depth to a Naples, FL 34104 Randy Kurtz 111 and 10th designs Street South room. What innovations do you see for homeowners who 239.643.6527 Photos: Lisa Gilmore Designs Suite 304 want to create an outdoor oasis? pbscontractors.com Naples, FL 34102 Candles: They create the mood and ambience of a room with 239.594.1501 their essence and glow. Versatile in every room, they can add LMG Design Consulting kurtzhomes.com that welcoming warmth every home should ooze. Lisa Guild
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ASK THE EXPERTS
A GOOD LIFE’S SLEEP The Luxury Bed Collection is helping people invest in their rest. Stories by Hunter Powell
Hästens
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ary Pat Wallace’s venture into luxury mattresses started, quite literally, with a good night’s sleep. After traveling to Köping, Sweden, to tour the Hästens mattress factory, Mary Pat spent a night on one of the company ’s beds—and her life was changed forever. Today, Mary Pat and The Luxury Bed Collection are embracing the Scandinavian way of “taking sleep seriously ” and helping Americans invest in their sleep to improve their lives. The Luxury Bed Collection has showrooms in Dallas, Chicago and Naples, FL. When customers enter any of these showrooms, they are handed the book Why We Sleep, by Matthew Walker, which explains why proper and comfortable sleep is important for the mind, body and performance. A healthier heart, balanced blood pressure, lower risk of diabetes, greater mental focus and more stable moods all result from getting the best possible sleep each night. “You need seven to eight hours of good sleep every single night,” explains Mary Pat. “Even taking away just 20 minutes lowers your ability to perform.” A major determinant in how well you sleep is your bed, and that is the focus of The Luxury Bed Collection. The two premier mattress lines offered by The Luxury Bed Collection are Hästens and Vispring. Hästens, which demonstrated to Mary Pat the impact of a high-quality mattress, is a family-owned
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Swedish company that stretches back five generations. Vispring is a British mattress company that has been crafting all-natural beds since 1901. The two lines were chosen for their topquality natural materials, which include horse tail, cashmere and angora. Both companies also use a wide variety of layering techniques and springs to suit every person and body type. Mary Pat describes the differences in the luxury mattresses she carries like variations of a fine dish. “If you go to two different Italian restaurants with two great chefs for a Bolognese, then it’s going to be entirely up to your personal taste to decide which is better,” she says. “Technically, the ingredients are exactly the same, but the two chefs tweak the ingredients, methods and quantities to make what they think is the best. You’ll agree with one of them based on your taste. The same is true for the all-natural mattresses we sell. Different ways of stacking springs, upholstery, stitching and even using different mattress bases can completely change the whole mattress.” With mattresses made from the finest materials available and builds for every body type, the staff at The Luxury Bed Collection wants every client to have the same life-changing sleep experience that Mary Pat did in Köping. “We guide everyone to the bed that’s right for them at the price that works for them,” says Mary Pat. “And when they find that right bed, their whole face changes. That is why
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we do it.” Finding the right bed means having a payment plan that makes it easy to invest in your sleep, mattress-flipping services to keep your bed fresh, and sustainable mattresses that are completely biodegradable and designed to last for 25 years. Mary Pat and her team ensure that every investment is well worth the price. Indeed, when you purchase a mattress from the Luxury Bed Collection, you’ll be getting a good night’s sleep that will last a lifetime. Resource: The Luxury Bed Collection Mary Pat Wallace 111 10th Street South Suite 110 Naples, FL 34102 239.296.5497 theluxurybedcollection.com
Vispring
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DESIGN +DECOR
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A PUZZLING ENDEAVOR Turning a two-unit penthouse into one grand space required teamwork and a big vision. Story by Heather Shoning | Photography by Michael Alan Kaskel
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hen the owners of a highrise penthouse couldn’t envision how their space could come together in one cohesive design, construction consultant and project manager Christina Nourse recommended they bring in Lyndsey Davis Nicklas and team member Michele St. Amand of L Design Studio. “I brought in Lyndsey because she has a good background in kitchen design,” Christina says. “In this unit, the emphasis was on opening up the living space and making the kitchen the most functional and beautiful part. Lyndsey has a good eye for how a kitchen should function while being beautiful.” Originally from Michigan, Lyndsey moved south for the sunshine, and when she landed in Naples, FL, she quickly found work as a lead designer for a local general contractor. During her eight-year tenure there, she acquired a strong understanding of construction. Indeed, when she started L Design Studio in 2015, she planned to be a solopreneur, but being well versed in construction, she received numerous calls and had more work than she could handle. Her team grew, and Michele joined her in 2017. “We like approaching the design as a collaborative experience with our clients in a casual, authentic way,” says Lyndsey. “It’s a different approach than what many people are used to in the luxury design market.” When Christina brought in L Design to collaborate on this project on Gulf Shore Boulevard in Naples, it was more than the kitchen that the team needed to tackle. The penthouse had originally been a pair of two-bedroom, two-bath units that mirrored each another, but the homeowners, a married couple, wanted a more defined primary suite and a larger bathroom that didn’t exist in the disjointed layout. And, while the Design + Decor
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Because existing condos generally have lower ceilings than some new construction projects, Lyndsey likes to create the feeling of volume by keeping the millwork, interior doors, cabinetry and walls similar in style and finish or color. “It opens up that whole space and makes it feel much larger,” she says. The wide-plank shiplap repeats in several areas throughout the home, as does the white finish.
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wife had a strong vision for what she wanted the home to look like aesthetically, she couldn’t envision the reconfiguration of the space itself. “We wanted to address some challenges in the kitchen layout and, when we opened up the space, take advantage of the amazing views,” says Lyndsey. “In addition, the layout required adjustments to the sizing of bathrooms and closet spaces.” To accomplish this, she had to puzzle out the reconfiguration of space within the limiting confines of a condominium complex. Finding the Right Floor Plan “Michele and I reviewed the floor plan and analyzed our opportunities to rework the space,” Lyndsey says. “With the challenges that type of building brings—relocating plumbing, electrical and air conditioning—we had to determine what we could and couldn’t do.” After creating two options for the clients, the team ended up with a hybrid plan that met the clients’ needs—but, of course, they didn’t know what would be behind the walls until they opened them up.
“It was a happy little thing with our new layout that we ended up with this niche area,” says Lyndsey. “Originally, we were going to do a closet, but the clients wanted to keep things open.” Michele designed a beautiful, functional space using a linear but soft-edged storage bench, with shell coral artwork purposefully scattered on the wall above it.
Lyndsey and Michele’s design adjusted the layout and position of the kitchen. Originally, a large wall with built-in shelving divided the kitchen from the living area. “And within that wall we discovered two major structural columns that we had to work around,” Lyndsey says. “We addressed them with some architectural elements and shiplap detail, which turned out quite beautiful.” The new layout creates views of the ocean— once cut off to the kitchen—from the entire area. Design + Decor
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In a condo unit like this, hiding mechanicals is tricky. “We did a lot of ceiling work and reworking of the HVAC, electrical and other elements to create some nice tray ceiling elements and raise the ceiling wherever possible,” says Lyndsey. “The kitchen is a great example of that. The ceilings, for the most part, are as high as they can be, with a minimum amount of soffit. I’m very proud of that.” The team also used a downdraft ventilation for the cooktop so the island wouldn’t require a hood. It was all about preserving the view. The reconfiguration of the condo had other challenges as well. The layout of the bedrooms was limiting as far as bathroom and closet space. By flip-flopping the primary suite from one side of the condo to the other, and eliminating awkward hallways adjoining the bedrooms, Lyndsey was able to increase the size of the bathrooms. Now the primary and VIP guest suites both have double vanities, which the former layout did not provide, and three of the four bedrooms are en suites. Making the Most of the View One of the best parts of this condo is the lanai, which allows the 52
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The kitchen island features a waterfall countertop, and the cabinetry has a whitewashed wood-look finish. The melamine surface pulls in gray and taupe, while the wood floor is a much warmer tone to intentionally keep the surfaces from matching. The perimeter cabinetry—in a simple Shaker style—is all white, and the hardware is acrylic, which disappears instead of contrasting with the cabinetry.
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A wall once obstructed the views from the kitchen, but a creative approach to the floor plan results in open-concept living in this penthouse condo, which was originally two individual units. Overhead lighting is clear and minimal to preserve—not detract from—the view. Mixed surfaces in neutral tones draw on texture for high contrast.
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homeowners to take advantage of the warm weather and wonderful views, and provides more room for entertaining. Sliding doors separate the space from the interior, making the area multifunctional. The lanai can be closed off from the interior or left completely open, and its furnishings are indoor-outdoor to withstand the weather. Because of the original two-unit floor plan, there are structural elements in the middle of the interior wall adjoining the lanai. Lyndsey wanted to open up the space to maximize the feeling of indoor-outdoor living, so she pared back the interior structural beams, encased them in shiplap and added a glass panel between the two poles, capturing as much of the view as possible from inside the home. The sliding doors originally pocketed toward the middle of the room. “This is something the contractor was ingenious about. The doors blocked the view when they were open, so we uninstalled them and reinstalled them in the reverse,” Lyndsey says. “We also removed the center section, which was a solid wall, and put a glass panel there, which was the clients’ idea. Without replacing the sliders, we were able to give the client more of a panoramic view of the gulf.” Design is in the Details The entire process was collaborative with the homeowners, but when it came to the finishes and furnishings, the homeowner’s vision really came to light. “We did most of the design work with the wife,” Lyndsey says, “but they both wanted something very light and fresh—clean with simple lines, a lot of white, with an organic, modern twist to it.” Design + Decor
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Blending some of the homeowners’ furnishings into the new design was important, and the lamp in the primary suite is a perfect example of this. “Our goal is to leave our clients with a home they feel is a true representation of themselves,” says Lyndsey.
The modern take on shiplap was one material the design team used to add some textural interest to the space while keeping it light and fresh. “Michele and I thought that was a great way to deal with those columns without overdoing it. It’s a 12-inch-wide shiplap instead of your standard, five- or six-inch,” says Lyndsey. “We felt like going larger scale was a fun, modern way to approach that type of millwork detail.”
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Because the homeowners wanted to keep most of the space white, Lyndsey looked for another way to create contrast and visual interest. She found it in textures. “You’ll find very little color, and it was intentional,” Lyndsey says. “You’ll see it on the pillows in the living room—this vibrant blue that we used—but it was intentional to do very little color. And we were strategic about a certain type of blue as our accent in very few locations. Other than that, most finishes are
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in that white or light tone-on-tone, and it’s texture that adds the contrast.” In keeping with the tone-on-tone and texture-as-contrast themes, the kitchen features a white subway tile backsplash, but it’s a hand-molded style for dimension. The island cabinetry is a whitewashed gray wood-look melamine. The style dovetails nicely with the dining room table with a salvaged driftwood top. The dining room chairs with woven roping detail are in the same gray-tone colorway—high contrast in texture, low contrast in color. The adjoining living area has a feature wall with the television, an electric fireplace and built-in shelving, and it’s constructed with the wide-plank shiplap used in the kitchen and other walls. “Picking a couple of features and repeating them really helps expand the space,” Lyndsey says. “Repeated design elements in the millwork connect these smaller spaces and make them feel bigger.” The design themes are carried throughout the entire home. The primary bathroom is crisp white everywhere—white cabinetry, white quartz, marble-look porcelain tiles on the walls and marble mosaic shower flooring. Meanwhile, the bedroom is blanketed in a neutral palette of white and natural. Simple linen bedding contrasts with the textured bed and rug. The lamp is a fixture the homeowner already owned, and its whitewashed wood base with a simple rattan shade blend beautifully with the new design. “She had very cool, funky elements, and we had a lot of fun layering existing pieces with new pieces—that’s something we do a lot,” Lyndsey says. “We listen to our clients and work with them to create a design that meets their overall expectations—not ours.”
Resources: Interior Design L Design Studio Lyndsey Davis Nicklas Michele St. Amand 6561 Taylor Rd Suite 1 Naples, FL 34109 239.260.5165 l-designstudios.com Contractor CMN Construction Services 165 Edgemore Way South Naples, FL 34105 614.402.9308
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HARMONY TIMELESSNESS FUNCTIONALITY 2022 ANNUAL ARCHITECTS ISSUE Stories by Meryl Seigman
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JOHN ORGREN
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HK Architecture & Planning is widely recognized for creating some of the country’s most spectacular luxury residences, boasting a portfolio of more than 550 homes throughout Florida, the Caribbean, the Carolinas, New England, Naples Area and Colorado. With a team of over 40 design professionals, the firm has offices in Naples, Palm Beach and Fort Myers, FL; Aspen, CO; and the Carolinas. Its Naples office is known for creating distinctive homes in the contemporary coastal design style that is so prevalent in Florida.
The magnificent lakefront house featured here, just one block from the Gulf of Mexico, represents the embodiment of harmony, timelessness and functionality in a single structure. Set on a gorgeous piece of property, the home features a pool with an infinity edge overlooking the water, accentuating the space where the water and sky merge, part of the magic that Naples has to offer. A fountain feature on the way to the pool creates an immersive watery world, giving one the impression of being surrounded by water on all sides. The gracious pool area seamlessly merges indoors and outdoors with a harmonious sense of continuity.
When asked how the elements of harmony, timelessness and functionality factor into the design of residential projects in Florida, John Orgren, the residential studio director of the Naples office, responded by describing a handful of prevailing trends that he believes will endure well into the future. The first he mentions, as odd as it may sound, is the concept of the “dirty” kitchen—a secondary, behind-the-scenes kitchen to stash the pileup of plates and glasses waiting to be washed, as well as appliances that don’t make a design statement. “The open floor plan remains very popular,” he explains, “but, unfortunately, that means everything in the ‘pretty’ kitchen is visible. We often create another room for clients to keep the mess out of sight.” The second kitchen, which the firm designs to be large and light-filled to maximize its functionality, can serve multiple purposes—as an office or laundry room, for example.
This home was designed in a coastal style, with the brackets and trellis on the elevated roof deck, and round windows adding a nautical touch. The super-tall windows in the great room bring in lots of natural light while maximizing the view of the water. The metal roof was chosen to match the home’s contemporary coastal style with its timeless look. It is practical as well as it is durable and long-lasting, protecting the house from storms and the sun’s rays. Inside, natural materials abound, including a wood floor and white-painted cabinetry. “Stone and wood never go out of style for a feeling of timelessness,” John explains. In keeping with the “Old Florida” style of the neighborhood, his firm incorporated many coastal elements into the design of the house, such as long-lasting steel trowel stucco clapboard that mimics wood board and batten siding, but is far more durable.
Another design concept that is popular among MHK clients is the “VIP” bedroom suite, a guest bedroom that is not as fitted out as the master suite, but a step up from the spare kids’ room that visitors often use. It includes an upgraded bathroom with two sinks and other amenities designed to made guests feel comfortable, welcome and important. Ideally it is situated on the ground floor, which is especially practical for elderly parents when they visit.
This magnificent MHK home, and so many others like it, embody the classic elements of timelessness, harmony and practicality.
Then there’s the kids’ room, outfitted with bunk beds, each designed like a mini-bedroom, to accommodate multiple children in a single space, creatively merging group living with individualized spaces for optimal practicality. The bathrooms are designed to provide room for several people at the same time, with a compartmentalized toilet and shower/changing area for privacy, and a double sink. This particular trend will likely be useful for years to come.
Architect MHK Architecture & Planning John Orgren 2059 Tamiami Trail East Naples, FL 34112 239.919.0786 mhkap.com
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JOYCE OWENS
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he clients purchased a long narrow lot along the Roosevelt Canal on Captiva Island, with the desire to create a harmonious getaway for their large family. Wanting the home to embody principles of togetherness, and a cozy familiarity between all of the residents, the house took shape as not just one building, but a village that meanders its way through the long narrow site, from Captiva Road to the waterfront. A timeless but functional gathering of structures ensures the village will respond to the needs of this growing family whose numbers and 64
needs will evolve for many decades to come. The main house acts as a programmatic anchor for the village, sleeping 22 people in its four bedrooms and 2nd floor loft, while the “Fishing Houses” to the east, inspired by the vernacular homes of Sanibel and Captiva Island, sleep another 12. Because of FEMA regulations, the living areas of the house were raised up above the ground. The ground level is realized as several rooms connected by outdoor walkways, which step up and down to connect to the large pool deck, while the Fishing Houses are raised
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entirely from the ground, accessed by an exterior stair.
interests in exploring island life together.
These buildings are linked by the central pool deck, fully enclosed with a light screen, so the whole family can enjoy the pool activities from any part of the Village.
Architect
Winding down through and between the wetlands on the property, the Owners requested various landscaping elements, such as a playground, a bird-watching tower, and a boathouse near the dock at the end of the site. All of these elements were designed together to unify the family’s
Architecture Joyce Owens Joyce Owens 2281 Main Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 239.425.5773 architecturejoyceowens.com Design + Decor
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RANDALL STOFFT JOHN COONEY STOFFT.COM
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hen asked about the role that timelessness, harmony and functionality play in his residential design projects, John Cooney, a partner at Stofft Cooney Architects in Naples, FL, becomes philosophical. “We have always designed with traditional classical proportions and massing—the threedimensional form of a building—which are the foundation of classical architecture,” he says. “If the bones of the house have proportional spaces, it is going to stand the test of time. The Greeks figured this out a long time ago.” Stofft Cooney Architects, the architecture firm founded by John and his partner, Randall Stofft, with offices in Del Ray, Naples and Sarasota, creates homes that are not limited to a single style or aesthetic, drawing inspiration from all genres and historical eras. Its mission is to create the everlasting through timeless but relevant and modern design. John explains that design based on traditional proportions works with all styles of architecture. Using that as a basis, the firm blends in authentic detailing, which has been created throughout the historical periods of architecture, and which adds the dimension of timelessness. “When you combine classic architecture, add authentic detailing, and then incorporate an open floor plan with amenities, you create a piece of architecture that is going to last for generations,” he says. If those elements do not exist from the beginning, the house will never become a timeless piece of architecture when it is renovated or altered. While materials and finishes change over the years, the firm makes selections that are easy to maintain and will stand the test of time. “This is our practice for every single home we design, regardless of budget, location or style,” says John. “Because we stay true to those principles, the end result is always a timeless, classic piece of architecture.” According to John, in the early days of architecture, the function of heating and cooling, and being efficient and protected from the elements, dictated the design of a home. Today, due to the availability of extremely efficient insulation and thermal glass, “the handcuffs are off, so we can design open floor plans with an abundance of glass and natural light,” he says. “Functionality is about family living and how you live in a home.” Stofft Cooney is able to design around and accommodate lifestyle, rather than being limited by the elements. Pictured here is an “Old Florida” home on Captiva Island that Stofft Cooney designed in 1988. This iconic home appeared on the cover of numerous publications over two decades, a testament to the fact that, like every home the firm creates, it has withstood the test of time. The other residence is a shingle-style, postmodern home that is modeled after a Hamptons beach house. Stofft Cooney brought in architectural details—roof, windows, doors, trellises— with very traditional proportions. But the house has a contemporary open entertainment style plan, a timeless design that can be enjoyed for generations to come. Architect Stofft Cooney John Cooney Randall Stofft 111 10th Street South Suite 308 Naples FL 34102 239.262.7677 Stofft.com Design + Decor
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JAMES KNAFO JAMESKNAFO.COM
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lexibility and adaptability are major design considerations for James Knafo, founder of Naples’ James Knafo Architects, Inc., and its sister company, Concierge Contracting. “I look at those concepts from a different angle,” he explains. Because 75% of his work consists of additions, alterations and renovations rather than new construction, he’s the one who “comes in and figures out how to undo something another architect did a long time ago to accommodate a modern lifestyle,” he explains.
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This niche practice is thriving because, as James points out, many people are moving to Florida from other parts of the country. Due to the limited inventory of new homes, they are purchasing existing homes built in the 1980s and ’90s, then modifying them to meet their everyday needs. In most cases, it is a temporary move, a place for the owners to live and enjoy for several years while they look for property on which to build their dream house. Often these interim homes are not fitted to withstand hurricanes, so retrofitting doors and windows is almost always a part of the
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project. Many new owners are also looking for an open plan for their kitchen, living and dining rooms, a popular design that enhances the entertainment and family experience. According to James, the challenge in creating this type of space in an older home is in taking down walls and reconfiguring spaces. “As a builder, I have X-ray vision,” he says. “I know what is inside those walls.” He understands from the beginning of a project exactly how to proceed, avoiding nightmare situations that can arise, resulting in unforeseen costs and aggravation. That’s clearly one of the advantages of being the only architect/builder in the county.
Many of James’ clients also want grand master suites with larger bedrooms, bathrooms and closets, all of which were seriously lacking in their homes’ original design. In these cases, the firm typically repurposes the original master suite into something else and builds a brand-new addition with all the amenities and features its clients desire. On the other side of building additions and making alterations is designing a new structure. “How do I plan this house to accommodate the changing needs of a family?” James queries. “I try to bring Design + Decor
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that into my design decision-making process from the very beginning.” For example, he knows that to accommodate future grandchildren or aging in-laws, the owners will eventually want another bedroom or two. His solution is to site the house in such a way as to leave room for future expansion. “They may not need it now, but in five or 10 years they will certainly want to expand.” Two of the projects shown here are living examples of how James Knafo Architects incorporates the elements of timelessness and functionality into its designs. One is a reinterpretation of the mid-century modern architecture that prevailed in the mid-1900s, which was very specific to Southwest Florida. James took the basic materials used then—glass, wood, brick and concrete blocks—modifying them in imaginative ways to create a hurricane-resistant home, an important requirement in the 2020s. The home located in the Florida Keys is designed around the incredible views of the water, which can be enjoyed only during daylight hours, since at night there is nothing to see but darkness. James placed the swimming pool on the third level, outside the master bedroom, rather than at ground level, so the owners could best enjoy their stunning views during the daytime. Another interesting design feature of the house is that the owners can walk from the dock to the house, up a flight of stairs to the patio, to another staircase to the pool deck level, and then to a spiral staircase that leads to the roof deck, affording the best water views, all without entering the home. The entire home was sited to take advantage of the ocean views on one side and the bay on the other, designed so the owners can spend their time outdoors both day and night. In James Knafo’s design practice, flexibility and adaptability are close relatives of timelessness, harmony and functionality. Each new home, addition or extension that his firm designs and builds is living proof that these concepts go hand in hand. Architect James Knafo Architect + Builder James Knafo 2500 Tamiami Trail North Suite 221A 239.417.1607 jamesknafo.com
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JENNY PROVOST K2DESIGN.NET
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hen Jenny Provost, founder of K2 Design Group, begins work on a new residence, even before the drawings are issued she “ walks” through the project in her mind. “There is a special rhythm of design that comes from this effort,” she explains. “I want each experience as one travels through their home to be the best it can be. This provides flow and creates harmony.” K2 Design Group in Naples, FL, has positioned itself at the leading edge of what’s happening now in architecture and design. The firm has received hundreds of accolades, including winning the American Society of Interior Designers’ Design Excellence Award numerous times in different categories. K2 is nationally recognized for the high-quality design, planning and execution of its projects, as evidenced in the exquisite residential, commercial and hospitality work it has created in South Florida and beyond. “I insist that all our projects have ‘legs,’ meaning the design will endure even as trends change,” Jenny says. This mandate is evident in the timelessness of her designs. For example, the new owner of a property she completed in 2000 will not be making a single change in the home. “The secret to design longevity when creating a more modern or futuristic design is to stay away from trends, to ignore what’s popular right now,” she says. All the homes she creates are built to last, a concept now known as sustainability, one of the foundations of timelessness. The magnificent 7,000-square-foot house shown here features four bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a fitness room, a luxury automobile-themed home theater, a glassand-stainless-steel elevator, a bar with an aquarium, and an executive office and board room. Situated on the widest part of the Caloosahatchee River, where it feeds into the Gulf of Mexico, the house also benefits from views of a wide canal opening on one side. The owners chose this site because, as serious boaters, they needed a deep-water location. Located in a neighborhood in Southwest Florida that is rapidly expanding, this home basks in its modern identity. It was designed with clean, creative lines and in Design + Decor
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full harmonious communication with the bounty of water in its backyard. Enormous motorized sliding doors recede at the push of a button, completely eliminating the distinction between indoors and outdoors. Jenny designed this custom house with bespoke details and craftsmanship to last for a lifetime, the incarnation of timelessness. It also incorporates critical elements of functionality, such as the glass-and-steel elevator, which will ensure the owners will be able to live comfortably in the house for years to come. Its imaginative design is so striking, Jenny decided to place it front and center as a focal point, rather than hide it in a back hallway. The house is highly functional in other ways, too, serving the changing needs and desires of the owners throughout the day and the seasons. It offers ample space for working, relaxing both
indoors and outdoors, and exercising in the hotel-sized fitness room. The construction of the house took nearly three years. With a client who was very serious about design and pushing the limits, a builder who was ready and able to take on anything, and a talented and experienced architectural firm leading the way, this project is the embodiment of timelessness, harmony and functionality. Architect K2 Design Jenny Provest 25081 Bernwood Drive Bonita Springs FL 34135 239.444.5205 k2design.net
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WEST CHIN WCARCHITECT.COM
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fter 12 years of running a design/build company, architect West Chin founded West Chin Architects & Interior Designers (WCA) in 2004 with the goal of creating modern spaces for the modern family. WCA is now a full-service, high-end architecture, interior design and decorating firm licensed in 10 states. The firm has achieved immeasurable success by being named by New York magazine as one of “The City ’s 100 Best Architects and Decorators,” topping Interior Design magazine’s industry list as “Kitchen & Bath Design Leader,” and being chosen by New York Spaces magazine as one of the “Top 50 Designers You Need to Know in Metro NY Design.” West maintains a design philosophy that combines style with functionality, utilizing minimal, clean lines to create fluid, light-filled, spacious environments. At the start of a project, he listens to his clients’ functional needs to find out how they live, entertain and expect to use the spaces in the home. Based on these conversations, he develops a floor plan that meets all his clients’ practical needs, and then he explores materials, fixtures and decor. A recent WCA project, “Beach House,” clearly illustrates the WCA design style. The property sits directly on the beach, close to the shore with 180-degree views of the ocean. The homeowners’ only request was that the home have six bedrooms and a large kitchen—they trusted WCA with everything else. Taking advantage of the unique location, West emphasized the indoor/outdoor living style and let the views of nature take Design + Decor
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center stage. He filled the home with swathes of neutrals, elevating the greens, blues, and yellows of the ocean and beach grass. The main living area is open to the outside with a 26-foot airport hangar door that allows the design and experience to flow from inside to out, undisrupted. When the hangar door is open, the main living room is also open, providing an unobstructed view of the Atlantic Ocean. Since the property is slightly sloped, West cascaded the floors of the residence toward the ocean to ensure that even the deepest reaches of the house would have a clear view. A few steps up from the living room is the kitchen, where West took advantage of the slope by creating banquette seating in front of the island to get full views of the water. He then wrapped the banquette in a white oak to bring more nature into the space. The lower floor, which has direct access to the beach, contains the children’s bedrooms and a recreation space. The use of dark purple on the indoor/outdoor furniture and the whimsical art make the area kid-friendly and very stylish. Though art pieces for all of West Chin’s interiors are selected near the end of the design process, he creates spaces for potential artworks during the floor-planning stage. It’s very important to West that the art complements and elevates his overall design. At this home, the concrete wall in the living room was the perfect canvas for the swarm of blue butterflies looking to escape through the airport hangar door. The WCA team is also the creative force behind the curation of the home decor showrooms, West | Out East, which specialize in modern furniture, kitchens, baths, lighting, rugs, closet systems and accessories. WCA has also developed a modern furniture and accessory collection, FTF Design Studio. For the Beach House project, West used the FTF collection’s Jane coffee table, which has a Corian finish suitable for indoor or outdoor spaces, in the main living area. Architect West Chin Architects & Interior Designers West Chin 137 5th Avenue Penthouse NY NY 10010 212-242-4945 wcarchitect.com
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ANDREA CLARK BROWN ANDREACLARKBROWN.COM
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“H
armony, timelessness and functionality are cousins,” proclaims Andrea Brown, founder of Andrea Clark Brown Architects in Naples, FL. “It’s very hard to separate them because they interlace.” She incorporates these lofty concepts into all her work, which includes luxury residences and impeccably executed commercial, hospitality and civic projects. Andrea Clark Brown Architects has a well-earned reputation for creating highly customized luxury residences that observe the classic principles of scale and proportion, while respecting their context and place. With relevancy and timelessness as its objectives, the firm strives towards the classic, meaningful and enduring in design. “The elements we all relate to, such as daylighting, shadow and proportion, are more important than objects in my design,” Andrea explains. “That makes Design + Decor
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a difference, because I look at enduring qualities that sustain themselves over time.” She embraces classic tradition by creating structures that are new and fresh, but manage to endure because certain aspects of them are timeless. Andrea believes the essence of a home is about comfort and harmony, reflecting the personality of its owner. The surrounding landscape plays a critical role in her designs, so that both the home’s interior and exterior merge as equal parts of its overall character. As a result, how clients live and move in their homes extend beyond its walls. By understanding the scale of the structure and anticipating how the neighborhood will change over time, she creates a harmonious balance between the home and its environment. “Every part of the design has to have a function or contribute to the content, with no waste,” Andrea says, discussing the importance of functionality in her designs. “There’s nothing extraneous. Everything works together, contributing in a way that makes them indelible. I learned over the years to make everything about a home useful.” Having studied ergonomics, the science of designing people’s surroundings so they can use them easily and safely, Andrea comprehends how bodies react to space and has learned to be efficient about structuring that space. She channels her clients so she can “be” them as much as possible, and so they can see themselves through her eyes. “Functionality comes from smart thinking about ergonomics and how your body uses things,” she says. As our lives become filled with more gadgets and technology, she says, it is important to create a functional space to offer comfort. Proportion and scale, Andrea believes, are everything. “Everything has to be proportioned properly so you can still relate to it with your body.” The iconic Andrea Clark Brown projects shown here are remarkable in that they all are at least 15 years old, and one is more than 30 years old. They all exist in their original condition, unchanged even as new owners have moved in over time. This is a testament to the timelessness, harmony and functionality of Andrea’s designs. “Many of the homeowners didn’t want to change a thing,” she says. “The materials, the form, the light, the relationship between the inside and the outside—those things remain intact because the homes have a narrative. That’s where the harmony comes in: when people are comfortable with the relationship between space and the surrounding neighborhood, and with the materials that can evolve over time.” Architect Andrea Clark Brown Architects Andrea Clark Brown 340 8th Street South Naples FL 34102 239.860.3898 andreaclarkbrown.com
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THOMAS JONES JMDG-ARCHITECTURE.COM
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homas Jones, AIA, LEED AP, is a principal and the director of design at JMDG Architecture | Planning + Interiors, headquartered in Naples, FL. He and his partner, Robert Mongillo, operate a comprehensive architecture practice, which includes residential, commercial, and interior design studios. The firm has a client base that is local, regional and national, with projects in multiple states along the East Coast. Tom employs the philosophy that good design practice is not responsible or effective if it is simply making arbitrary and intuitive conclusions to arrive at a design. Similarly, he believes design solutions that copy style trends are instantly at jeopardy for not retaining a timeless quality. In contrast, good design is the result of a creative solution that expressively harmonizes with the understanding of specific functional needs. It is based on relevant ideas that transform into a three-dimensional reality that enhances our experiences in life.
solve multiple problems and needs, then it is most relevant for inclusion in the project. He leads the JMDG practice studios with the purpose that proper planning and design should result in projects that are site specific, culturally relevant, socially responsible and environmentally sustainable. According to Tom, timelessness is related to a building’s enduring relevance, since there is no one style related to timeless design. Otherwise, only historical “styles” would be candidates for timelessness, since we tend to accept them for their inherent longevity. Harmony in the design elements is the skillful blending of scale, proportion, materials, color and massing in a balanced or pleasing way. Harmony with the surroundings or environment is something different, and is known as “contextual” harmony. When designing a building, Tom asks, “Is the structure relating to its surroundings in a harmonious way?” A building can be harmoniously designed as a composition unto itself, but also be out of harmony with its surrounding environment for numerous reasons. The context of a design project should always be considered. “Providing functionality in a design solution is the most fundamental aspect of what we do,” Tom says. “Most of our problemsolving efforts are directed to this variable of the design.”
Within the JMDG practice studios, Tom instills a process-oriented design approach. This is necessary to assimilate the client’s requirements with other physical and environmental considerations. The challenge of the design process is to analyze these variables and produce a design that is relevant to the project, even if the People may never recognize the actual existence of harmony, funcaesthetic outcome is not necessarily common to style expecta- tionality and timelessness in architectural design simply because tions and trends. Tom believes if a particular design gesture can they cannot get past a design “style” they do not like or underDesign + Decor
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stand. Tom leads the JMDG design process with a mandate to create architecture that is not insecure in its ideals to create original design solutions, rather than contribute to style trends. He regards the constant adopting of style trends within the architecture and interior design professions as an easy way out, rather than putting in the required work of realizing unique design solutions and opportunities. The work Tom creates with JMDG Architecture looks to progressing the rigor of forward-thinking about design, while understanding where we have come in history. Tom intently looks to the Florida environment as he builds into his design solutions a response driven by site analysis and passive cooling strategies. “I consistently ask one question during our design process,” he says, “ which is, ‘What does it want to be?’ To be timeless, harmonious and functional.” Whether a private residence that responds to the lifestyle of its occupants and environmental context, or a public building that responds to greater human needs and the fabric of a city, good design is the result of an intelligent and intentional process. Architect JMDG Architecture Planning + Interiors Thomas Jones 633 Tamiami Trail N Suite 300 Naples FL 34102 239.594.9778 jmdg-architecture.com
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A MIX OF STRONG AND SOFT IN NAPLES Well-known interior designer Wilfredo Emanuel turns a temporary home into a beacon of his personal style. Story by Heather Shoning | Photography by Naples Kenny
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The open concept of this living and dining space is perfect for entertaining, and the adjoining outdoor space allows guests to mingle throughout. Artwork abounds everywhere and creates a perfectly curated feel.
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hen Wilfredo Emanuel and Gary Harlan spotted a beautiful corner lot dotted with banyan trees in the Moorings neighborhood of Naples, FL, they knew right away they wanted to buy it. “It was a very fast sale because the area is very beautiful, and we’ve wanted to live there for a long time,” says Wilfredo. “When we passed through, we didn’t even see the house inside. We just saw the beautiful curb appeal, with the five huge banyan trees and all the shade and green. We fell in love with that. And we signed the papers because the original idea was to tear down the house and build our dream home.” You might know Wilfredo from the TV series Table Wars, the local charity scene or D’Casa SWFL, a Spanish-language interior design and real estate TV show. If you don’t know him, Wilfredo Emanuel is a TV personality and modeling advisor, who has been a premier mentor for Christian Dior in the U.S. and the Caribbean—in addition to being one of Southwest Florida’s top interior designers. He’s easily recognizable, thanks to his signature style—always decked out in smart designer clothing and sporting swanky eyeglasses. Design + Decor
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When the couple wants a quiet evening at home, they relax in the family room with its big, comfortable sofa and large-screen television.
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Wilfredo kept the kitchen simple with clean lines and added touches of his personal style, such as the porcelain pendant fixtures over the peninsula.
home with dark trim, doors and some walls, while the rest of the walls are light and bright. The original floors included several different surfaces, but Wilfredo opted for one style of wood flooring throughout to create consistency. One interior feature that caught Wilfredo’s attention was the tray ceiling over the sunken dining and living area. “I made it a beautiful Venetian plaster in gold and black,” he says. “It gives that feel of dimension.” This living space, Wilfredo notes, defines who he is as a designer. The sleek chairs that are a contemporary rendition of the Wassily— a mid-century icon—are contrasted against the soft curve of the heavily textured white sofa. “It’s like a mix of the strong and the soft,” he says. “And I always love dark tones with gold; I think it looks very elegant.” Artwork also plays an important role throughout the home. The living room is dotted with sculptures by artist Jonas Stirner, while a work by Darryl Pottorf hangs above the sofa. Over the coffee table is a chandelier from Lladró that is designed to look like dozens of fairies suspended in mid-air. “I think the chandelier is a sculpture in itself,” Wilfredo says. “I did that cascade going to my cocktail table to make a statement—it’s the first thing you see when you come in. Illumi-
nated at night, it’s gorgeous.” The adjoining dining space has a refined, live-edge dining table in natural wood tones, as seen in mid-century furniture. It’s surrounded by dining chairs that take a cue from the curved-back sofa. Rich, textured wallpaper reflecting the dark brown, black, gold color palette blankets the dining wall and the living room wall opposite it. “That gives me a beautiful feel of this flow and, at the same time, of framing and color,” Wilfredo says. “You have the same colors in the ceiling, so they complement each other very well instead of fighting each other.” Wilfredo flip-flopped the living and dining spaces from the previous layout, allowing for better flow from living to dining and the adjoining outdoor living space. He designed the outdoor living area to look and feel like a Beverly Hills-style cabana with long curtains, outdoor rugs and luxury outdoor furniture. While he added many custom touches to this home, some did not work out as planned. For the foyer, he ordered a custom, handmade wallpaper from France, but because of the pandemic, he was unable to get it. Without missing a beat, Wilfredo turned to the artisan who created the tray ceiling treatment to Design + Decor
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And he’s known for applying his design sophistication to any space—homes, tabletops, events—you name it. “I’m an out-of-the-box kind of guy,” he says. “I love to create spaces for my clients that are very unique, so they feel they have a different space from the one down the road.” It’s not surprising, then, that when Wilfredo walked inside the house he bought sight unseen, the coastal vibe with yellows and blues did not appeal to him at all. The mid-century bones spoke to him, however, so he set to work on yet another unique space. “As a designer, as an architect-designer, I always have a good eye for the architecture,” he says. “I start looking around and saw elements of mid-century, which I love.” So instead of tearing the home down, the couple decided to give it a facelift so they could live comfortably within it while they take more time to find or build their forever home. “Because it’s supposed to be temporary, I did everything that wouldn’t get involved in permits,” Wilfredo says.
This home is compact, with the foyer opening directly to the living and dining areas. A nearby room serves as a library and exercise space.
The design inspiration began at the front entrance. To emphasize the height and architecture of the home, Wilfredo added wood cladding to the towering wall, and painted it and the columns in a rich, dark brown/black color to contrast with the light exterior walls. The color palette envelops the front entrance and is found throughout the Design + Decor
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The primary bedroom serves as a retreat for the couple with its relaxed atmosphere and refreshing colors, while maintaining the mid-century modern appeal.
replicate the wallpaper design in plaster. The foyer, living and dining spaces are replete with artwork selected by the homeowners, including sculptures, a sofa-sized piece, a triptych and a series of works that complement the palette and serve as conversation pieces. The family room, where the couple relaxes, has the same architectural details, but a slightly different palette. This white and light space features brightly colored pop art by Michael St. Armand, a pair of white Wassily chairs, glossy white tables, 96
a navy textured rug and a navy velvet Barcelona-style bench. The elements are tied together with black-and-white Hermes pillows and a throw. This casual area is adjacent to an eat-in kitchen that received a complete makeover. In this space, Wilfredo kept the same footprint and cabinet boxes, but upgraded the cabinet doors, countertops, sink and appliances. Handmade porcelain pendants from Lladró highlight the U-shaped peninsula. “I added a perimeter of lighting, and it looks amazing,” he says. “I did all the lowers in dark tone. The appliances are the same dark, smoky color; the uppers are white with the hardware
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leather; and the waterfall countertop is white quartz. The eat-in space features a high-gloss white table surrounded by black Hilburn pedestal chairs. Because of the floor plan, the kitchen has a unique wedge shape. To not waste an entire wall, Wilfredo added a large contemporary buffet in sleek white, and two large pieces of black-and-white artwork to the angled wall. Wilfredo and Gary entertain frequently, and some of the couple’s best friends are women. To that end, Wilfredo outfit-
ted the spare bedroom accordingly. They call it the “The Diva Room,” and it’s all bling. A metallic marbleized custom wallpaper covers the wall behind the bed. The furniture is gloss white with silver, and the rug is a thick chenille shag. Modern chandeliers hang above each side table; they look like dangling earrings and throw sparkles of light around the room. “And, of course, Versace has to be in one place in the house—I love Versace,” Wilfredo says. “I love his clothes and his print on the furniture, so I used all those silvers with gold accents, and I brought them all together.” The artwork includes Madonna, Marilyn and the Design + Decor
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The guest bedroom, known as “The Diva Room,” is a plush space sparkling with silver and refracted light from the chandeliers, which is reflected in mirrored surfaces and gleaming in Versace gold.
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bust of Queen Nefertiti of ancient Egypt—all in true diva fashion. The primary bedroom features a sloping shed ceiling, creating lots of volume. Here again is custom wallpaper, this time in metallic velvet with hints of copper, steel blue and brown. Pendant fixtures flanking the bed are from Baccarat. One side of the room has access to a poolside seating area, while the other has the primary bathroom with a soaking tub, brown crocodile-print wallpaper and iridescent brown mosaic tile surrounding the tub and running floor to ceiling in the shower. The couple has his and his dressing rooms, and although both men are dashing and love fashion, Wilfredo’s is the pièce de résistance of the home. “My closet basically is a reflection of myself,” he says. “I try to organize all my stuff so I can find it. I enjoy clothes and accessories. It’s like a little store for myself that I can enjoy every morning to go and shop for myself.” The entire home is a genuine reflection not only of Wilfredo—his personality, his work and the air of flair about him—but of the couple. “We are always entertaining and receiving. We want to create this ambience—that very kind of chic feel you have with beautiful color, with the gold reflecting,” Wilfredo says. “We love and enjoy it very much.” Resources: Interior Design Wilfredo Emanuel Designs Wilfredo Emanuel 4760 Tamiami Trail North #2 Naples, FL 34103 239.315.7794 wilfredoemanueldesigns.com
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PROFILE
Interior Design for the Community A new face and focus for Interiors Group of SWFL in 2022 Story by: Hunter Powell
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nteriors Group of SWFL has a long history in Naples, FL, offering residential and commercial design, consulting and model merchandising. This year, Interiors Group is reinvigorating its brand with the partnering with Aivey Street and the focus she brings on relationships with individuals and the community as a whole. Owner and principal designer Susan Petril has worked at the firm since 1989. With 38 years of experience in full-service design, Susan understands the importance of balance in every space, and how it functions to best serve a family’s day-to-day lives. She is excited that Aivey, a longtime friend, has become a new member of her team, noting that Aivey “is charming and knows so much about how business works.” Indeed, Aivey is a perfect fit for the team’s new vision for 2022. She brings a track record of success in entrepreneurial ventures, business development, public relations, marketing, client relations, quality enhancement and communications. She has a strong foundation in business and finance, which she uses to bring a new layer of communication and understanding with clients. She is passionate about community outreach, volunteering to support the success of small businesses, giving back to the community and fundraising for non-profit organizations. And, like Susan, Aivey is a longtime resident of Naples. “I want to improve customer connections and bring a more modern approach to our work,” says Aivey about her role. “Because I live in Naples and love it, I want to help inspire growth here,” she says. “My hope is to bring the company to the next level and make a great impact in
Naples and beyond.” The team’s focus on forming longstanding relationships with families and community members through their work goes directly back to their warm and open personalities. Their openness encourages clients to be candid with them, and also helps them understand how their clients really live in a space. Susan and Aivey’s ultimate objective is to inspire harmony in those they work with—and wherever they go. “When people choose a designer, it’s about harmony between parties,” says Aivey. “The feeling that is brought to their lives, the relationship they form, and the choices that are made for them all have to come together. We want to bring that harmony to the community as well—we want to bring it into 2022 with a whole new feeling.” For the team at Interiors Group of SWFL, the new year is an exciting time to focus on enriching their own community. With a revitalized focus, they will be putting that goal at the forefront of their work here in Naples and beyond. Resource: Interiors Group of SWFL Susan Petril & Aivey Street 1854 Trade Center Way, Unit 100 Naples, FL 34109 239.233.0950 interiorsgroupswfl.com Design + Decor
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PROFILE PROFILE
LDD Interiors
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ith more than 25 years of experience in the field of design, Lisa Davenport has gained an acute awareness of the importance of every piece of work that comes together to craft a living space. Whether it be the architectural side, the labor of building the structures, or the interior design work that turns the space into a home, Lisa and her team at LDD Interiors have a mind for it all. At LDD Interiors, however, one-of-a-kind interior design work takes more than just understanding each stage of work that goes into a living space. For Lisa, great design comes from working together harmoniously with each person crafting the home. Lisa’s love of interior design was sparked when she was selling drapes, wallpaper and other household accessories in a retail space. When clients would excitedly return to tell her about the rooms they had created using her ideas, “I got the bug,” she says. “Seeing that feeling of excitement in a person’s face when they love the place they live in, I wanted to feel that all the time.” Lisa chased that feeling all the way back to school—and never looked back. She became a partner in a design showroom for 15 years, and then about 10 years ago set off on her own with LDD Interiors, using her experience to bring about that delighted expression on the face of every client. When it comes to Lisa’s work, she never attributes the finished product to herself alone. Lisa’s goal is to reflect her client’s personality within her work. This means considering more than just the finishes within a space, but also the architectural elements, such as how sight lines within a room will make a client feel, and how light entering a space can impact clients differently. “It’s important to make sure I embrace the architecture while reflecting a client’s personality,” she says. “I can never forget the architect’s vision in the work I do.” 104
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That’s why Lisa goes above and beyond, not just in her relationships with her clients, but with others involved in the project as well. While some designers might work separately from architects and builders, Lisa tackles a project collaboratively. “My favorite relationships are when an architect, a builder and I are all in a room together,” she says. “We each bring our own strengths to the table, and that offsets our weaknesses. I may pay more attention to how a space feels, the builder could be thinking about costeffectiveness and material quality, and the architect might dial in to how a physical space will work best for its inhabitants.” It’s this collaboration during a project that makes the result seamless for clients of LDD Interiors. “When everyone works together harmoniously, the clients never experience any disconnect in their space or stress over how their home will end up,” she says. Indeed, Lisa is certain about “how important it is to have those three team members together from the getgo,” she says. “There are fewer mistakes and fewer headaches, with a better outcome by the end.” LDD Interiors Lisa Davenport 140 West Street #303 Middlefield, CT 06455 860.316.5718 380 10th Street East Suite 101 Naples. FL 34102 239.260.1845 lddinteriors.com
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