Design + Decor The Florida Edition Spring 2023

DESIGN DECOR +

THE KITCHEN ISSUE

DESIGN DECOR +

SPRING 2023

BOLD INTERIORS WITH SOFT TOUCHES

New York Meets Southwest Florida in this Sophisticated Sarasota Home.

KITCHEN COUTURE

Our designers create the ultimate kitchen’s specifically tailored to their clients every need.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

A homeowner’s fashionable, eclectic style shaped her high-rise remodel.

Story by Sarah Fader + Brittany Shepard

Story by Meryl Siegman

Photography by Diane Todorova

Story by Heather Shoning

Photography by Blain Jonathan

DESIGN +DECOR

SPRING 2023

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

Kelly Ames Smith | ks@dd-mag.com

Janine Vairo | jv@dd-mag.com

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, $21; two years, $38. 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: mk@dd-mag.com. For advertising inquiries: Please call Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091 or e-mail at sm@dd-mag.com. 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

The Beauty of the Industry

“Over the years, I have come to understand that in order to design you must love the industry, even if it is not easy, because the industry is all the good and the bad that we have. If the role of the artist in ancient times was to show the beauty of nature, the role of the designer today is to show the beauty of the industry.”—Michele De

Lucchi, Italian architect and designer

It has been busy for me these past few months at Design + Decor Publications. I did a lot of travelling, as I attended industry shows in Las Vegas and Milan, toured the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach, and then spent a couple of weeks working in the New York area on our sister publication.

Both Las Vegas and Milan had multiple trade shows going on. These covered the home design industry and, in Milan, fashion week. While in Milan I took some personal time to explore the culture and visit quite a few museums. It was at the ADI Design Museum that I found the above quote, which resonated with me and how I look at my role in the industry. I believe it is my job as a publisher to share both the beauty of the home and the true stories of the home design industry—“the good and the bad,” as the quote says. What I mean by this is that, while our magazine highlights beautiful design to inspire our readers, we also dig deep to explore behind the scenes and illuminate what it takes to bring these beautiful projects to life. In doing so, we teach our readers what expectations they should have when diving into their next projects. Our mindset has always been that if we, as a publication, can educate clients for our industry partners, our partners will have more knowledgeable clients who understand that it is not just about the pretty pictures, but the process it takes to get to those pretty pictures.

In this issue we feature some great kitchens that focus on bringing in the light; merging indoors and outdoors; incorporating diverse materials like stone, wood, ceramic and metals to make a space more textural; adding interesting hardware and lighting; and using fun elements like pops of color to create kitchens that are full of character.

In our “In the Field” department, we introduce Schreier Dezin Homes, a new collaboration between an interior design firm and an architecture firm, and explain how this new all-star team plans to reinvent the homes of Naples. This is a must read, as I am very inspired by their concept of “courtyard-style homes” in the residential market.

As always, I am blown away by the creativity and ingenuity of our partners in the design industry, and am very proud to share their stories with you, our readers.

Until next time, arrivederci! (In my mind, I am still in in Italy!)

Shelley McCormick - Publisher

Backsplashes, Arches & Color

Stories by Kathleen E. Syron

D+D: What are some of your standout backsplashes at the moment?

RM: For us, the word “trend” is an anathema to our work. We believe in projects of permanence and design for inheritability. The ultrahigh luxury market is using materials that will last at least 30 years and usually much longer. The only reason someone might change a design or product would be to repair plumbing. The tile or slab is not going to fail; it won’t wear out or fade. It will look just as beautiful years from now as it does today. This is why it is so important to choose a product that is visually, emotionally and physically resonant for the person using the space.

One new look I am seeing is the presence of color in our classification of really fine stone and tile, which I believe is a response to the ever-present gray and white kitchens. Homeowners are more apt to choose universally appealing designs if they plan to resell anytime in the near future. In my business, we tend to work on projects of permanence, where the client is emotionally invested in the materials they choose. In these cases, I always tell my clients, “Your backsplash has to make you happy first thing in the morning and last thing at night. If you have chosen something for any reason other than it delights you visually, then you made a mistake.” Color is overwhelmingly the number one visual feature that people register and respond to. It has the power to change one’s mood or attitude. So natural stones with colored veining and brightly hued tiles are becoming more and more popular, as is the combination of the two. The use of quartzite with glass tiles is very special.

Artistic Tile

Roy A. Marcus, Brand Ambassador

520 Secaucus Road

Secaucus, NJ 07094

201.864.7000

artistictile.com

ALEX ZAPIRAIN AZ DESIGN

D+D: What are some standout backsplashes you are designing?

AZ: My clients want a cleaner look in their kitchens, so they are requesting the same material as the countertop and running it up the backsplash. Not only is it a sleeker look, but it is also much easier to clean. I mostly do modern designs with open kitchens/living rooms, so I have to make sure there are not too many kitchen elements fighting against each other. If there are too many different materials, then it gets busy and chaotic looking. You also don’t want the kitchen fighting design items around the other spaces. Clients want an openconcept flow, so I like to keep everything very clean. Neutral but bold—like the mirror backsplash.

Alex Zapirain

Alex Zapirian Designs

5099 Tallowood Way

Naples, FL 34116 305.761.0316

alexzapiraindesigns.com

LYNDSEY DAVIS NICKLAS L DESIGN STUDIO

D+D: Why do you think arches are making a comeback?

LDN: In the past one to two years, we have seen a shift in design trends toward a softer, warmer aesthetic. I believe our life experiences through COVID and other traumatic events throughout the world have truly resonated with people, and we are looking for our environment to feel cozy, soft and welcoming. Generally squared, straight lines and gray tones from 2015 through 2020 were a modern look, but can feel cold. Arches are just one of the ways we see the architecture being softened, along with bringing in a hint of the past. Arches have been seen in interiors for thousands of years, and there is always an undertone of that when we design them into the space.

D+D: What are some focal and accent points to bring in with arches?

LDN: Some great areas to work an arched detail into the space are windows, exterior doors and interior doors or doorways. We often are mixing simple square windows with two to three round-top arched windows, which differ from the broken arch style. Round-top arches are the more trending style, and can look fabulous in a modern eclectic space. Other smaller areas where these shapes and details can be worked in are shower niches, mirrors, decorative niches and shower doors.

D+D: What are some standout backsplashes you are designing?

LDN: Backsplashes continue to be a wonderful place to add interest and drama in a kitchen or bar space. We have been designing our backsplashes with more dramatic geometric and water-jet designed patterns. A trend to neutral colors for these tile selections is helping to ensure a timeless appeal, but bold pattern adds the drama we are looking for. Three-dimensional styles and gradient designs are also trending and a fun, modern way to add texture and interest.

D+D: What do you think of continuous backsplashes, and how to choose the best material?

LDN: Another popular approach to backsplash design is to use the same countertop material and wrap it up onto the backsplash. We have applied this concept with such materials as quartzite, quartz and porcelain slabs. Some advantages of this design approach are the ease of maintenance with these materials. You no longer have to struggle with cleaning or sealing your grout, and those pesky spaghetti sauce and olive oil spatters are no longer a concern. Utilizing the material on both the countertop and backsplash helps to visually expand the size of the kitchen. When the same material is repeated, it makes the space feel larger.

Dramatic veining from a Perla Venata quartzite or a Calacutta-style porcelain slab can add a stunning focal point to the space. We have moved away from specifying natural stone marble for countertops because there are so many great alternatives in the man-made market, and they are more durable, less likely to stain, and can handle everyday wear and tear much better than natural stone. Backsplash ledges are gaining popularity as well with these full-size slab designs; the ledge is made out of the same material and adds interest and utility to the kitchen or bar design.

L Design Studio

Lyndsey Davis Nicklas

6561 Taylor Road #1 Naples, FL 34109 239.260.5165

L-Designstudios.com

BART ZINO PBS CONTRACTORS

D+D: Do you think arches are making a comeback?

BZ: No! Most of our clients are looking for a Florida/Naples coastal style that does not include arches, so we don’t see a lot of them in our builds. These homes are based on the simple lines of a beach bungalow that did away with traditional ornamentation in favor of a more modern look. Although I don’t like to predict the future, I can’t see arches making a huge impact on Florida design.

That being said, I am seeing a number of designs that will feature just a couple of arches in either the exterior or interior or both. I just finished building a home, and it had just one interior arch. While it didn’t strictly fit with the genre of the home, it did create an architectural focal point that enhanced the decor. I also think the client’s own personal taste may be influencing Florida architects to augment the original Naples coastal design. Most of our clients are second-home buyers who love the indoor-outdoor nature of Florida homes, but they want to bring a little of their traditional style down from the Midwest and Northeast. A few arches here and there might make them feel more comfortable.

Personally, I like a scene where we have either curved or squared-off doorways. I don’t really like to mix styles if I can help it. But it’s all about giving the clients what they want, and if they want a few arches, then we will give them arches.

Bart Zino President PBS Contractors, LLC

4395

Corporate Square Naples, FL 34104

239.643.6527

PBScontractors.com

JEANNETTE DERA-SERAPHIN SHEA HUNTER

DALTILE DESIGN STUDIO

D+D: What do you think of continuous backsplashes using marble, granite or quartzite?

SH: A well-designed kitchen can often start with a dazzling counter slab! Whether one selects a crisp marble-look quartz or porcelain (offering beauty and ease of maintenance) or falls in love with Mother Nature’s one-of-a-kind natural stone (marble, limestone, soapstone and quartzite), the right slab can provide endless design opportunities. So, why not further elevate your slab—literally—by carrying it up the backsplash? Whether classic traditional, fresh transitional or even ultracontemporary styles, slab backsplashes offer a seamless architectural element as a dramatic kitchen focal point or a subtle backdrop to enhance other design layers, such as unique lighting fixtures, a custom metal or wooden hood, or fabulous cabinet hardware. Slab backsplash owners also gain the added benefit of flexible “design bones,” allowing them to switch out their kitchen accents with ease as the years pass.

D+D: What is out for 2023?

JDS: While choosing timeless materials and patterns is always safe, it’s even more, fun and exciting to embrace new trends. The geometric tile was a trend for 2022, and it’s sticking around for 2023! Designers and homeowners just can’t get enough of hexagons, diamonds, triangles and other tile shapes.

Daltile Design Studio

Jeannette Dera-Seraphin

Shea Hunter 990 1st Avenue South Naples, FL 34102

239.963.0243

daltile.com

D+D: What are some of your standout backsplashes at the moment?

KL: We are seeing a lot of full-height backsplashes. There are not a lot of busy installations anymore; without all the grout lines, you get a very clean and inviting look.

In a recent kitchen I designed on Captiva Island, FL, my clients requested an elegant beach home. They wanted to highlight the beauty of the beach in a more glamorous fashion. We used Cristallo stone on the counter and backsplash to give it that polished and finished feeling. Cristallo quartzite is a hard stone able to withstand the rigors of the kitchen, yet with the luxurious beauty of marble. It’s a nice, clean look that exemplifies the clients’ request for an elegant beach style. The neutral tones of the stone evoke the sand and can be accented with coastal accessories without being overtly beach-themed. Although we did not do so in this house, the Cristallo stone can also be backlit to increase the glamour factor.

D+D: What is out for 2023?

KL: Going forward, I think we are going to be seeing more neutral tones and less complex installations in backsplashes. There will be no more— or fewer—mixes of stone and glass, as clean lines will outweigh the creative mix of materials. The backsplash will no longer be standing out on its own, but rather will be a nice complement to all the other design aspects in the room. It’s really about blending all the features together as part of your whole interior design. The combination of counter and full-height backsplash will be a nice accent or jewel on top of everything else.

KDL Interior Design

Kristin Lyons 7370 College Parkway, Suite 204 Fort Myers, FL 33907 239.317.3103

KDLInteriorDesign.com

D+D: What do you think of continuous backsplashes using marble, granite or quartzite?

TM: There are pros and cons. The benefit of the continuous backsplash is that it’s so easy to take care of. You don’t have to worry about grease and spots getting into grout lines, especially behind the cooktop and outdoor kitchens. Also, although it is a simple design style, it is uniquely beautiful when you have a vein that is book matched from the counter to the splash. And, depending on how big the space, the effects can be dramatic.

Most of my clients opt to have the stone for the countertop only so they can do something different for the backsplash. They find the creativity, selection and versatility of tile provides them the opportunity to add interest to a feature wall.

D+D: How does the backsplash add to creating a calming kitchen?

TM: I always make my kitchens calming and inviting. You don’t ever want someone to go into a room and not want to be there. As an interior designer, you have to think of the psychology of how someone is going to feel in a space; you can’t just try to make it look nice.

On one kitchen project I did recently, I used a backsplash with a lot of variations of blues. The mosaic tile had lots of movement with the contrasting blues and grays, so when it was hung, it mimicked water running down a wall. The vertical nature of the tile directed your eye to the height of the room. We didn’t want the backsplash to dwarf the scale or the grandeur of the kitchen. And running it vertically only made it more impactful in the space. The clients and I wanted to have a little splash of color, because the cabinetry and walls were a pale mix of whites. They wanted something special, but didn’t want it to feel entirely foreign to everything else going on in the space. I was trying to find that happy balance between what is going to make it pop, but not seem incredibly strange to the whole area.

Tina Margrander

Tina Marie Interiors

28410 Bonita Crossings Boulevard, Unit 270 Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239.301.0086

tinamarie-interiors.com

D+D: Please share your thoughts on continuous backsplashes and how to choose the right pattern?

JG: With the majority of our recent projects, I have found it hard not to lean toward a full-height backsplash. When the countertops and backsplash are the same material, it creates a classic and modern element. It is a perfect application for today’s traditional designs, as well as sleek and modern design.

When selecting slabs for this design feature, what I look for most is the clean linear grain—ideally, a grain that is on a diagonal to give that continuous swooping feel after installation. One key element to this installation is lining up the grain so that at every crease or bend, the grain flows continuously from one piece to the next. While I love the natural quartzites, one of my favorite materials to see this detail executed is a gorgeous white marble or a porcelain slab that looks like white marble.

J. Lynn Design Group

Jenna Getchell

Naples, FL 239.784.7134

JLynn-Design.com

MICKEY DICKSON MARZUCCO ECRU & EBONY DESIGN

D+D: What are the design trends for colors in 2023, and why are you choosing these color palettes? How do you incorporate color into the design of your rooms?

MDM: I usually let the client, not trends, dictate the color palette, as it is a very personal preference. Having said that, I am seeing more use of vibrant and bold colors as both the overarching design element and in the details. My clients seem to be less hesitant in choosing bright hues than they were in the past. I recently completed a room where I painted the ceiling a deep ruby pink color as a way to envelope the room in the tint, while also keeping the design as timeless as possible. For those not daring enough to paint any part of a room in vibrant bold tones, I suggest bringing color into the design with art and accessories. Even the littlest bit of color will create interest.

I also think we’re going to continue to see earthy hues and deep moody colors. For example, I would pair deep, rich green or charcoal blue on cabinetry with a light countertop. This would be a luxurious look for anyone wanting a classic, bold design, and who is not afraid to use color on something so permanent as cabinetry.

Mickey Dickson Marzucco

Ecru & Ebony Design

5401 Taylor RD Ste. 4 Naples, FL 34109

239.825.1487

ecruandebonydesign.com

A Door is More Than an Entrance— It’s a Statement

Story by Sarah Fader

Nancy Saavedra is the co-founder of Art Boulle. Born in Ecuador, she moved to Canada when she was five years old, and as an adult she studied business in Toronto. Years later Nancy revisited Ecuador, where she fell in love with the country and the man whom she would marry, Diego Saavedra. While she was there admiring the nation’s historical architecture, she got the idea for a custom door company, and that’s how her firm was born. Together with her husband, Nancy founded Art Boulle, which creates beautiful statement doors—incredible projects she is very proud of—for its clients. Art Boulle’s corporate office is in Toronto, but the company recently expanded to the U.S. and has a new showroom in Palm Beach, FL.

Design + Decor: How and why did you get into the custom door industry?

Nancy: It was around 15 years ago when I traveled to Ecuador, and I was inspired by the craftsmanship. I wanted to bring a product to Canada that was not massproduced, but more unique and handcrafted.

Design + Decor: Why do doors—exterior and interior—matter?

Nancy: The front door has always been the signature piece of the architecture of the house. It’s the first thing people see when they walk through your door— it is a statement. It’s crucial to make a door that has impact and that “wow” feature. Interior doors are the same concept. We can do custom doors and fabricate something that goes with the front door so it flows and matches the overall design of the house.

There is personality in each door. As a matter of fact, for every door we do, we try to make it custom and unique to match that family’s taste. It can be anywhere from intricate—something that’s very ornate that goes with the family, like a coat of arms—to something more modern or minimalist. Minimalist would be something that’s still elegant but not too heavy, and doesn’t overpower too much for that personality. Every single door speaks with a design, which is our specialty. We design based on the

taste of the client.

We have a lot of clients who are, for example, from Dubai, and they love to show a bit more of their success. They want intricate and ornate pieces that show their tastes, their imperial style—like a palace type of look. We get clients who want something nobody else has.

Design + Decor: What are some styles you are seeing in custom doors?

Nancy: A lot of the styles are contemporary—however, they’re handcrafted. We’re able to implement metal and wood—the combination of the two—which a lot of our clients love. We’re able to do metal features with wood, and vice versa, or we can just do metal; it depends on the client. More clients tend to go towards the contemporary. Contemporary is more of a modern design with square or straight lines rather than scrollwork, which is a lot of the French style we do.

We’ve made a lot of replicas of artist Edward Brandt’s work, which is Art Deco style. His work is now in the prominent banks of Downtown Manhattan. Art Deco was an era where the traditional classical scrollwork became a bit more modern. It’s still a lot of hand-craftsmanship and detail in a bit of a more modern era. Some of our clientele love that era, and it’s very hard to find someone to fabricate something like that.

We’re diverse because we have every single style. We now have a client

who wants something in the style of Buckingham Palace, so everyone is quite different. For traditional style, we do a lot of cast work. In France, a lot of the doors are traditional pieces that are historical—they have a lot of scrollwork, drapery, cast elements and leaves, and are inspired by nature.

Design + Decor: What is the process of creating and executing custom doors? Can the architect/designer come to you with their own design?

Nancy: Architects will come up with their own designs, and we’ll help them fabricate those pieces. Some architects will come to us and say, “What do you recommend for this project?” We get involved in the design process, presenting a couple of options to them.

Design + Decor: Are pivot doors popular?

Nancy: Pivot doors are very popular right now. Everybody wants to have that oversized door, not just the double door. It creates a bigger space when you open the door and walk through the entrance. Pivots have become very popular; at least 80% of our projects are pivots. A door that’s hung on a pivot system has a plate at the bottom and a pin inside the door. The top plate also has a pivot pin, and it’s hung on that. So the door actually opens and closes on that pivot; it’s not a hinged door. We still do hinge doors or concealed hinges for modern doors. But the pivot is easy to open and close; you can move it with your finger, even though the doors are heavy. Some of them are 600 pounds, but they’re

easy to move. We work with FritsJurgens, from Germany, one of the best pivot systems out there.

tanna Design Associates, GWT Outdoors and, of course, Kurtz Homes Naples. Ultimately, The Collective will feature additional businesses, such as interior design studios, furniture companies, and other related firms that complement the existing tenants.

Accessorizing is such a key element in the final design pro Trays: Where would we be without the tray! Trays are functional, resourceful and elegant, and they have an abundance of purpose and style. They are perfect for your candles and florals, allowing an ottoman to become a cocktail table, and are easily moved around.

Design + Decor: Do you recommend different materials for the doors based on location?

What’s trending right now in flooring?

Jack Walsh Trade Showroom

Jeremy Walsh

There truly is no stopping IDS. Although her parents have no plans to retire, Nicole is set to take over the family business when the time is right. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with my parents on a shared purpose and passion,” she says. “I look forward to what the future holds for IDS and the design industry.” And we can expect only great things from Nicole and such a dynamic, forward-thinking company.

International Design Source

Emilio Sadez

Nancy: Yes, absolutely. If we’re doing a project in Florida, for example, if the client wants wood, it would have to be a certain type of wood, or we would recommend a metal door. It also depends on which way the house is facing. If it’s facing south, it’s going to take a lot more sun. We recommend what material to use, but we let the clients know their options ahead of time. Some of them say, “I don’t care. I still want a wood door. It doesn’t matter that I’m facing south.” We have different options for the clients, including metal, wood or bronze doors.

Nicole Sadez Bobek

While Randy sees development projects like The Collective as a way of deepening his roots in the Naples community, his priority will always be Kurtz Homes Naples and continuing the foundation his father laid. “I hope we continue things the way we’ve been doing them for 38 years,” says Randy, who is delighted that so many family members are in the business. “My family is a real big part of my life. It’s great to have some of them as part of the Kurtz Team.”

Oiled natural wood flooring for any style room is popular— especially natural hardwood, which is trending with biophilic designs. We have lots of requests for wide-plank hardwood floors, which make rooms look larger and more open and offer something for everyone, no matter your design sensibility. Oak is one of the most durable species, with a tight, dark grain that works in almost any room, in any stain. Maple is the second most popular hardwood, because it has a predictable pattern and color, with a hint of character. Today’s most popular colors are gray and gray muted stains, white and light natural wood.

6001 Taylor Road Naples, FL 34109 239.591.1114

Most of our woods are mahogany. We know that’s an excellent wood because it doesn’t absorb a lot of humidity, it is a hard wood, it’s beautiful and it’s very noble wood. Depending on whether it’s a warmer or colder climate, we analyze that before we choose the type of wood we’re going to be using.

Resource:

1734 Northgate Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34234 941.552.2550

Randy’s mother, Nancy, continues to be involved with the business. His two daughters, Carolyn and Elizabeth, work in client relations and marketing, and Carolyn’s husband, David Gordon, is a project manager. Carolyn and David’s three children, Noah, Isla and Lucy are often in the Kurtz offices, and Noah is even listed on the website as a future employee. His start date? The year 2035.

Art Boulle

Nancy Saavedra

The advantages of an oiled surface are the pleasant direct con tact with the wood, the smoothness, the ability to repair the affected area without working on the whole surface, and the positive room climate created by the exchange of moisture. Natural oiled surfaces soak into the wood flooring and provide the necessary robustness from the inside out. However, lacquered surfaces represent sealing the wood floors on top, and are often obtained through several layers of lacquer. The wood underneath the lacquer layer is usually left untreated.

4209 S. Dixie Hwy West Palm Beach, FL 33405 416.781.4969

Resource:

Kurtz Homes Naples Randy Kurtz 111 10th Street South Suite 304 Naples, FL 34102 239.594.1501 kurtzhomes.com

401 Bay Street, Suite 1600 Toronto, ON, Canada, M5H 2Y4 647.822.9637 artboulle.com

What innovations and designs do you see for homeowners who want to create an outdoor oasis?

IDS is also opening a new factory showroom with its partner, working events, vendor presentations, and industry events around market trends and news.

LMG Design Consulting

Schreier Dezin

The Future of Naples Home Design

How a New All-Star Team Plans to Reinvent the Homes of Naples

Story by Hunter Powell

When you think of what a home looks like in Naples, FL, a few words come to mind: high-quality, luxurious, beautiful—perhaps even coastal living. During a time of great change in the region of Southwest Florida, a team of the highest caliber has come together to usher in a whole new frontier for the Naples home. This recently formed team, known as Schreier Dezin Home, has one key mission, according to founding member Jeff Schreier: “Bringing extreme luxury to Naples, and making it more approachable for the masses.”

Schreier Dezin Home is spearheaded by Jeff Schreier, Matt Schreier and Lyn Buck of Schreier Interior, along with Kaitlin Lammers, head of interiors and Gregory Palmer and Sebastian Drexel of Harrison Design. Launching this spring, Schreier Dezin Home seeks to introduce courtyard home design to Naples, a concept that is very popular elsewhere the nation, but is not as prevalent in Southwest Florida.

While some courtyard homes can be found in the region, Schreier Dez-

in Home wants to make this style a staple of home design in Naples. Why does it work for this area? “Courtyard-style living brings back a home design where your entire surroundings are made up of the inside and the outside,” says Jeff. “What we learned from COVID is that people want their home designed to maintain their privacy, but they also want to open it up to have gatherings with other people.”

For the design team, the concept of courtyard-style living has its roots not only in COVID, but in Hurricane Ian as well. The latter affected many Florida homeowners, and Jeff was no exception. In the wake of the hurricane, Schreier Dezin Home got its start, as Jeff and Gregory saw the need for new homes in Naples, specifically in the Naples Park area. The neighborhood is ideal for the architectural variety the team seeks to offer with courtyard-style homes.

The courtyard home is instantly recognizable as a mark of quality with its large, open areas as the centerpiece of the build itself. But what makes it special for Naples is the privacy it provides while allowing for true

open-air Florida living. “It gives you inherent privacy you wouldn’t necessarily have with a regular backyard,” says Gregory. “With a courtyard, you’re controlling the environment. All the rooms of a courtyard home are focused towards the center, which is what you control in the home design. This allows you to leave your doors open and still feel private while enhancing the natural light of the home.”

Augmenting the natural light of the space and letting a breeze come through while still controlling the privacy of your home is exactly what courtyard living is all about. These homes feel distinctly Florida. “We’re building these homes with Florida in mind,” says Gregory. “We’re not building them as you would in other places. The interiors are very much of today, but with a level of timelessness.” Jeff adds, “Like the architecture that Greg’s team builds, the interiors are also timeless. The stone floors throughout the home are brought out to the exterior; it’s cladding the interior so it enhances the architecture, rather than competing with it.”

This collaboration of interior and exterior is achieved through a minimalistic approach that Jeff calls “intentionally under-designed.” With interior elements like stone floors, sunken living rooms, hanging fireplaces and indoor planters, the entire home feels in harmony. The

From top left clockwise:Lyn Buck, Matt Schreier, Gregory Palmer, Kaitlin Lammers, Sebastian Drexel, Elizabeth Schreier, Jeff Schreier, Chanel Clayton

lines between interior and exterior meld together to create a sprawling feeling of a home that “lives bigger than it actually is.” This feeling connects back to what Greg says is the ultimate purpose behind the Schreier Dezin Home team: to create courtyard homes that feel like the pinnacle of luxury, but are something that the majority of Naples homeowners can afford.

The team also seeks to make a difference architecturally by bringing fresh design to Southwest Florida, inspiring new ideas of how homes can be designed in this community. This means building homes better—building them to withstand the forces of nature—while also creating architecture that visually improves the neighborhoods. “Each house will have its own unique characteristics; that’s a huge part of our vision,” says Jeff. “There’s too much repetitiveness going on.” Making each courtyard home unique allows each firm to showcase their talents into a truly custom design. It’s a concept that Jeff, Gregory, Sebastian, Kaitlin, Lyn and Matt are championing as “intentional design.”

Schreier Dezin Home’s entire team shares the mindset of rejuvenating Naples with intentional design that enhances the lives of residents. Each team member is excited to give back to the community and enable more people to have access to this high-effort design. “We’re closing the gap in affordability so more people can see the value in good design,” says Jeff. “This is a partnership in bringing intentional design to the masses—to create a sense of peace in the home through courtyard style.” One thing is for sure: as the Naples area continues to grow, the Schreier Dezin Home courtyard style will help Naples retain the beauty and elegance for which the city is known.

Resource:

Schreier Interior

Schreier Dezin Home

Jeff Schreier

Lyn Buck

Matt Schreier

Kaitlin Lammers

1025 1st Ave South

Naples, FL 34102

651.442.6879

schreierinterior.com

Harrison Design

Gregory L. Palmer

Sebastian Drexel

24 10th Street South

Naples, FL 34102

239.206.5909

harrisondesign.com

DESIGN DECOR +

Story by Meryl Siegman | Photography by Diane Todorova

What happens when a couple from New York renovates a sprawling transitional home in Sarasota, FL? They end up with the perfect combination of New York cool and the Sunshine State’s barefoot luxury, bringing together the best of both worlds to create a perfect family setting. And what happens when one of the owners is a former competitive body builder and life model to the stars? Things get really interesting!

Built in 1981, this exceptionally lovely brick and wood-frame house is located in a gated community in which the homes are anything but cookie-cutter—each one is architecturally unique and visually stunning. Sited on nearly an acre, this singlestory, 6,500-square-foot home features five en suite bedrooms with walk-in closets, a large common area with a gracious open floor plan, a well-equipped gym, and an enormous outdoor living room, summer kitchen and swimming pool.

The Perfect Designer for a Unique Project

The owners of the house travelled in the same social circles as interior designer Leili Fatemi, the founder of Leili Design Studio in Bonita Springs, FL. The wife was such a fan of Leili’s that she regularly followed her on social media, saying, “When

In the foyer, the light-gray goat hair and stainless-steel stools accented with a polished brass finish are from Interlude.

we renovate our home, Leili will be the one to do the design.” That opportunity came when the couple decided to take the plunge and remodel their home once the COVID-induced restrictions were lifted.

Leili Design Studio has been creating high-end residential interior design in the U.S. and internationally for nearly two decades. The award-winning firm is a full-service boutique specializing in luxury interiors, and operates its own 4,000-square-foot showroom and design center. “When we work with clients,” Leili explains, “we do all selections here. We have a large sample library with different materials, wallcoverings, finishing touches, accessories and furniture, all under one roof. I handle all my projects from A to Z.”

Leili Design Studio specializes in unique interiors that reflect its clients’ lifestyle and personality, whether their taste leans towards traditional, transitional, contemporary or modern. Leili’s eye for sculptural furnishings and ability to select pieces that are both artistic and functional, combined with her European educational background, made her the perfect choice of designer for this project.

Bold but Soft Interiors

When Leili got to work on the full home renovation, she noted that the house had an interesting layout, but its decor did not represent who the clients were or reflect their personalities. “I wanted to learn more about

the family before I got going on the design,” Leili explains. After spending some time with Adam and Megan Heller, their sons Jordan and Zach, and their dog Yoshi, Leili learned that Megan had a career as a professional bodybuilder and as a live model for several well-known artists.

As a bodybuilder, Megan competed in competitions in the figure and physique categories. The figure category is ideal for women with a naturally athletic physique, good muscle shape and tone. In the physique category, judges look for competitors who are more feminine and athletic than their bodybuilding counterparts. “That image became the key for my interior design selections,” Leili says. “I wanted everything to match the house’s transitional architecture, while letting the owners’ personalities shine through.” The basis of her design scheme certainly makes sense; after all, what better captures the look of a female bodybuilder than the compelling combination of a strong and bold presence softened by curvy and feminine lines? “The soft lines also represent my clients’ kind and gentle personalities!” Leili exclaims.

And so the idea for the entire home was based on bold, dark colors combined with soft, feminine shapes and curves. Leili accomplished the desired look by incorporating wavy lines and earthy colors to contrast with the dark hues, colorful art and bright metallic finishes. She says, “I carried that concept throughout the house, from the entry to all the rooms.”

The Ambella Home chiseled mirror in the entry features a gold-leaf frame in an asymmetrical circle. Behind it is raffia wallpaper from Omexco.

The high-end fabric in soft, neutral tones on the knife-edge pillows on the living room sofa is from Romo Group.

A Few Challenges

Large jobs always come with their own special challenges. In this case, the team discovered at the beginning of the project that the entire concrete foundation of the house had to be sealed with epoxy. “That changed the whole process for us,” Leili recalls. “We ended up being delayed for five to six weeks because we had to pull up all the old flooring, right down to the ground, and rebuild from the ground up.” After the work was completed, the rest of the renovations followed on schedule, with the entire job taking less than eight months.

A Complete Makeover

The project involved several structural changes, such as removing some accent walls, but the work was essentially about redesigning the entire interior of the home, including the colors, materials, furniture, lighting, flooring and wallpaper. All the selections were conveniently made in Leili Design Studio’s showroom.

“The home had a very nice open floor plan,” says Leili, “but each room offers its own sense of privacy, too. For example, the

The 50- by 50-inch Italian porcelain tile used for the fireplace wall, with its hint of graphite and golden brown, echoes the color scheme of the great room.

dining room and great room are separate from the family room.” She describes the architecture as “transitional, not super modern and not traditional. When we worked on the plan, we tried to stay true to the architecture of the house.” What is noticeable about the design scheme, which is consistent throughout all the rooms, is the abundant use of dark colors—blacks along with charcoal, graphite and gunmetal grays— softened by calming neutrals.

The design details of the foyer set the tone for the rest of the house. In the entryway are a pair of fur poufs, with a bright brass band placed under a console finished in a charcoalcolored fabric. The asymmetrical mirror framed in gold leaf that hangs on a wall covered in natural metallic wallcovering is emblematic

The gold-framed pencil drawings in the powder room exemplify the overall design plan of dark colors accented with bright metallics.

The kitchen countertop and matching hood are made from Luxury Series Cambria quartz.

of the entire design scheme, with its bold metallic color accenting a wavy, feminine shape.

The kitchen abounds with drama, and it is clear that no detail was overlooked. Its black cabinetry catches the eye, while the off-white Cambria quartz countertop and matching hood with a striking, tiger-like wavy pattern are a tasteful mix of bold and soft. This theme is echoed in the hardware: the manufacturer of the undulating bright metallic handles describes the cabinet and drawer pulls as “refined organic shapes, subtle curves, and overall sense of fluidity.” An octagonal breakfast room is a soothing combination of a white palette and gentle curves, offsetting the daring kitchen. The table’s brass base picks up on the use of metallic accents.

Another example of the bold but soft design concept can be found in the great room, with its black console, shimmering chandelier, gold picture

frame, and shagreen black vase with metallic base. Leili selected a largescale porcelain tile for the fireplace wall because of its mixture of colors in graphite and goldish brown on a white background, which pick up the same tones used throughout the dining and great rooms. “I chose it because it’s perfect for the room,” she explains. “It creates a nice touch without being overwhelming.”

A tour of the rest of the home reveals artwork, accessories and decorative objects crafted from different combinations of black and brass, as well as dramatic but soft gold and silver pendant lighting.

The Artwork is the Star Attraction

The owners already had a valuable art collection, with some of the pieces acquired during Megan’s career as a life model. The balance of the artwork was selected by Leili. “All the pieces represent their personality and their

artistic New York sensibilities,” Leili says. “What’s hanging on the walls is who they are.

One of the more prominent pieces is a portrait of Megan by the visual artist Carmelo Blandino. The work of this well-known Italian artist is celebrated for its intensity and use of color. He is noted for his ability to adapt classic techniques to a modern audience, and for making the time-honored subjects of his painting—still life and the human figure—appear to be both flat and sculptural at the same time.

Also on display are classic live figure drawings, another representation of the owners’ style and aesthetic.

A Job Well Done

The clients couldn’t be more thrilled with the results of Leili Design Stu-

dio’s full home renovation. It is a reflection of who they are and what they love, and a showcase for their stellar art collection. This Florida home is a place where a sophisticated New York couple and their family can kick off their shoes and relax in southern style.

Resource:

Leili Design Studio

8800 Bernwood Parkway, Unit 1

Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Phone 1: 239.319.0944

Phone 2: 239.676.1994

leilidesignstudio.com

KITCHEN COUTURE

Our designers create the ultimate kitchen’s specifically tailored to their clients every need.

Story by Sarah Fader | Brittany Shepard

Bespoke Blue: A Periwinkle Kitchen with Magical Details

When a client gives an interior designer carte blanche to transform an 80-year-old historical home, there is no other answer but, “Absolutely, yes.”

And that is exactly what Alexandra Naranjo of Alexandra Naranjo Designs replied when a London couple approached her to remodel their second home, outside of Toronto. She knew she had a jewel of an opportunity to create something truly bespoke.

With no explicit directions from the clients other than wanting color and a home that had better flow and functionality, Alexandra seized the moment and designed a residence that would serve as a family gathering place for the couple, their grown children and their grandchildren.

The first challenge was to find exactly where in the home to put the kitchen. It was originally located in the front of the house, but this layout did not work for the homeowners, who wanted to enjoy indoor-outdoor living. Alexandra relocated the kitchen to the back of the house and added a breakfast area to create better flow to the dining and outdoor areas.

Once the perfect location was selected, the design took on a life of its own,

as Alexandra focused on building in custom functionality and personality. The first design choice was to use a soothing yet unexpected periwinkle blue for the cabinetry. This choice set the tone for what would become a truly unique kitchen.

A large center island features marble, with whimsical pendants providing light in tones of blue, bronze and brass. The range area, which also has marble, is flanked by large windows. Alexandra notes that one of her challenges was to craft a new window to be an exact match to the existing original.

The design team paneled the double refrigerator with a washed wood, and built in the appliances for an upscale, custom look. The hardwood floors were carried in from the rest of the home and are a commercial application of hardwood by Schotten & Hansen. Extremely durable and scratch-resistant, they are “bulletproof,” according to Alexandra.

The size of the kitchen allows for the luxury of no upper cabinets and the opportunity to create the most striking feature of the kitchen: the backsplash. “The client’s favorite tree is the cherry blossom,” says Alexandra. “The backsplash we designed is custom-made, hand-cut mosaics forming the cherry blossom tree.”

Visual Comfort sconces highlight the mosaic backsplash and add more touches of brass to a kitchen that feels fresh and a little whimsical. Custom counter stools were covered in fabric from the French company Pierre Frey. “It is not a typical kitchen,” says Alexandra. “When you walk in, you feel like you are in a magical space.”

For Alexandra, the best part of the project was when the team was approaching the finish line, and asked the homeowners to stay away so they could add the final touches and host a reveal party in the kitchen. “It was really fun,” says the designer. “It was very emotional—some watery eyes—and the clients loved it.”

Resource:

Alexandra Naranjo Designs

Alexandra Naranjo

4209 South Dixie Highway

West Palm Beach, FL 33405

561.800.7382

7250 Keele Street, Suite 315 Vaughan ON L4K 1Z8

416.992.3562

alexandranaranjo.com

Ultimate Indoor-Outdoor Living that Lets in the Light

Kitchens have always been the hub of the home, but in recent years, after unexpected, extended time at home and now a renewed opportunity to host guests, prospective home buyers are even more laser-focused on the kitchen meeting their personal and entertainment needs.

Danielle Reardon, Partner for Abodeable— a full-service construction and interior design firm based in Naples, FL—focused on this when remodeling a spec home for her company.

A total remodel was in order for the existing Tuscan-style residence, and the first

task was to blast out all the Tuscan features, like arched windows, to square everything up. For designing the spaces, Danielle recognized that creating an open floor plan was a top priority. “We doubled the size of the kitchen and created an open floor plan because there is less formality here,” says Danielle. “We also added a butler’s pantry, because we felt those types of features are more on trend.”

The dining room was relocated to the back of the house into a former family room, so it would open to the kitchen and connect to the outdoor space through fully pocketing sliders that open completely. “You bring the outdoors in, and it’s one giant entertaining space,” says Danielle. “It flows for indoor-outdoor living all together.”

Often, the challenge in a project like this is the uncertainly of what you are dealing with structurally to achieve the desired open concept. “Because it was a spec and we were controlling the budget, we couldn’t make things as large as we might have wanted to, so getting the footprint we wanted was a little challenging,” says Danielle. “But at the end of the day, I think it all worked and flowed properly.”

Another consideration on a spec project is designing for homeowners who are unknown. Danielle says she used the Naples’ environment as her inspiration by featuring bright, vibrant blues in the

decorative accents and artwork. However, she chose to keep the core elements of the design fairly neutral. “The color scheme of the hard goods like the tile and wood was all neutral, so anybody could move in, and if they didn’t like the art or the color of the chairs, that’s an easy fix,” she says. “Bringing in color with elements that are easily interchangeable was the goal because we knew we were selling it, and we needed to appeal to a broad client base.”

The cabinetry is Abodeable’s own line through MasterBrand, and the solid quartz countertop is from Rock Solid. Metro Tile & Marble supplied the backsplash material, which is an intriguing geometric marble waterjet with brass discs in the center of a star pattern.

The general plan for creating an open, casual living and entertain -

ing space is echoed in Danielle’s favorite feature of the kitchen: the butler’s pantry. “It hides the mess!” she says. “With the open floor plan and the kitchen being so exposed to the great room and dining area, you want your kitchen to be clean so people can sit at the island—not necessarily for eating, but as a social spot. So you can keep the mess and food prep in the back, which is really conducive to entertaining.”

Resource:

Abodeable

Danielle Reardon

4085 Tamiami Trail North, No. B105 Naples, FL 34103 239.920.3190 abode-able.com

In an open concept home, the kitchen is typically the statement-making moment of the entire interior design concept. The homeowner of this stunning contemporary glam kitchen knew exactly the statement she wished to make.

Interior designers Rebekah Errett-Pikosky and Charlie Hansen of Clive Daniel Home were tasked with bringing her vision to life. After owning another property in the same Naples community, the homeowner wanted a home that was unique and just her style. “When we first started meeting with the client, she had a very good direction and concept of the design she wanted for this house,” says Rebekah. “She had a lot of design sensibility, and it was very much about the wood tones and neutral fabrics. And she loved the gold. She drove how she wanted the end vision to look, and we helped facilitate that.”

The new build, constructed by Frank R. Jenkins Custom Homes, would be the retired couple’s second home, and the plan was to create a home that is classically modern and equipped for entertaining. “Her goal was definitely to keep things warm and inviting and natural—so we added lots of natural elements and texture,” says Charlie.

For the kitchen, the designers commissioned SoHo Kitchens & Design due to their ability to create a modern-contemporary aesthetic with lacquers and textured materials. The wall and full-height cabinetry features a blonde Sonoma oak semi-lacquered gloss, while the base cabinets are a matte semi-

lacquer taffeta gray. “The high gloss and matte finishes play well on each other and with the finishes,” says Charlie, “and it shows really well.”

Perla Venata quartzite countertops bring a cool, streamlined look to the surfaces. The two islands with custom Century Furniture and Vanguard Furniture bar stools in the same fabric accommodate more seating than a typical kitchen. “The bar stools set things off with the white painted hood and the brass accents,” says Charlie.

The unique island lighting is by Hubbardton Forge, and its brushed brass tone ties in well with the striking Daltile backsplash and Brizo faucets.

“This kitchen is pretty glam—more so than the kitchens we are seeing right now, which are customarily white,” said Rebekah. “They are nice and pretty, but not as interesting visually, and this one was all about the different textures—the stones, the backsplash, the lighting and how it all came to play together so well. It’s visually interesting, and when the kitchen is the main show of the space, it can’t be just white anymore.”

Resource:

Clive

Daniel Home

Rebekah Errett-Pikosky | Charlie Hansen

2777 Tamiami Trail North Naples, FL 34103

239.261.4663

clivedaniel.com

Team Work Makes the Dream Work

“It feels like I’ve always had this home—it’s like it was always in my heart,” says homeowner Lucinda Dasta. “It came out of a concept from me, and I just love it—the materials and colors. Everybody worked well to get it. It took teamwork.” There is no higher compliment when a homeowner’s vision is brought to life and she is able to contribute the success to the team that worked together

to make her dreams a reality.

This elegant, French Country-inspired kitchen is the stunning result of an effort among architect Clifford Scholz, Perrone Construction, Marie Bowman Interior Design and the Dasta family. The family had lived on the property for many years, and the new construction home was built after

the existing home was demolished. “We had an older home but one of the biggest lots on this key, and we did not want to change,” says Lucinda. “We lucked out with the Perrones—they were just wonderful.”

Ricky Perrone of Perrone Construction recalls meeting the clients for the first time, and how they hit it off right away. “We met them at their home

on the back porch to talk about what they would possibly want to do,” says Ricky. “We had a lot of fun bouncing ideas off each other.”

Ricky recommended bringing architect Clifford Scholz onboard for the project, because he knew that Clifford would understand the concept for the home and be able to dial into the traditional architectural style the Das-

tas were hoping to achieve. The design process moved quickly from there, says Ricky. “Because the homeowners had a distinct vision and were involved in the process throughout, they actually started building fairly quickly,” he says. “Lucinda communicated her vision—H-shaped symmetry, French style and not at all contemporary—and the team made it happen. We have a great way of seeing a client’s vision, assembling the team around that vision, and making it happen in a way that is done quickly and efficiently.”

At this point, Marie Bowman Interior Design came on board to help bring Lucinda’s French-inspired aesthetic to fruition. “This client wanted authentic, casual elegance inspired by the French Country aesthetic,” says Marie. “When we first started the conversations, the clients expressed that they didn’t want finishes that looked new in the home, but ones that had a certain old and timeless presence about them. We looked for finishes and materials that would give the feeling they had a history behind them and had been there for a long time.”

An exquisite, custom Francois & Co. stone hood surround was finished in scagliola stone. The historic technique creates a finish that resembles fine marble and limestone. Sarasota Architectural Woodworking crafted the cabinetry, and Marie selected Farrow & Ball Blue Gray No. 91 for the color. “We felt this added the right touch of understated color to this kitchen,” says Marie.

The island countertop is Ijen Blue quartz, which Marie thinks brings a touch of energy and movement. She chose brushed white bronze hardware from Rocky Mountain Hardware. Paul Ferrante, a lighting designer and manufacturer who works exclusively with interior designers, created the

custom ceiling lanterns above the kitchen island based on a simple sketch.

“Marie helped me follow through with what was in my head,” says Lucinda. “Otherwise, I would have been stuck with the designer’s concept, and I don’t ever like doing that because it isn’t my heart.”

The result is lovely tailored home and kitchen space that is well thought out and personal to the homeowner. “One thing I really appreciated about working with these clients was that their vision was very specific to them,” says Ricky. “I always love when people stay true to the vision they had for the property, because there’s nothing more personal than your own home.”

Resource:

Perrone Construction

Ricky Perrone

7045 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941.924.6900

perroneconstruction.com

Marie Bowman Interior Design

Marie Bowman

1188 North Tamiami Trail, No. 105 Sarasota, FL 34236 941.809.5949

mariebowmaninteriordesign.com

The scope of work for an interior designer is not limited to the interior design of the project. Sometimes the designer serves as a style coach, helping homeowners marry their vision with the design aesthetic they actually lean towards. This was the case for Lyndsey Davis Nicklas of L Design Studio, when a retiring couple brought her in to renovate the kitchen in their second home—a condo with panoramic views of a lake and golf course.

“They came with a vision that felt like it didn’t actually pair with the aesthetic I had seen in their home, where they had furnished a living room and started an art collection,” says Lyndsey. “Their vision sounded more coastal transitional than what I was seeing them gravitate to, and I was pleased that they trusted me enough to pivot them.”

The couple, without realizing it, was leaning more towards modern style, and Lyndsey helped guide them as they collaborated to create a kitchen that would fit this newfound style. “Something that was really important to them was that the design still felt warm and not cold,” she says. “I worked with them on how to incorporate texture and finishes to keep the space feeling warm but with a clean, modern aesthetic.”

Lyndsey employed stardust quartzite to bring in more warmth. This adds interest, texture and movement to a space that has mostly clean lines. For the countertop, Lyndsey chose to stick with the standard three centimeters thickness for a thinner, more European look. “The stardust

quartzite has some cool black characteristics that some clients might shy away from,” she says, “but these clients liked the unique aspects of the stone, so we decided to feature it up the backsplash as well.”

Integrated J-channel finger pulls for the hardware give the cabinetry a minimal style, while the Hubbardton Forge island light offers an edgy, industrial feel. The cabinetry is Wilsonart Laminate, chosen for its durability and easy maintenance. Lyndsey says most people are blown away when they realize it’s not real white oak. The laminate cabinets are perfect for the homeowners because they are passionate cooks. “This kitchen had to be designed to be a workhorse,” says Lyndsey. “A lot of kitchens in this area aren’t designed for use, but these clients were very specific that theirs needed to work well for them while being designed in a very minimalistic, modern way—so there is a lot of incorporating function behind closed doors.”

Custom functionality was built in with organizational strategies in every drawer or cabinet. A hidden coffee bar area can be stowed away behind a dropdown door, but it is easily accessible to the main area for all-day use when the homeowners—coffee connoisseurs— entertain.

One wall houses appliances and a fullsize wine tower. To the right is a hidden butler’s pantry behind what appears to be cabinet doors. To maximize the view from the windows, Lyndsey shifted the kitchen about 10 feet, which left approximately six feet of the existing kitchen. This created the opportunity to add the butler’s pantry. Notes Lyndsey: “That was neat to give them a ‘dirty kitchen,’ as we like to say—a prep area and a place to keep countertop appliances and things that might clutter up the main countertop areas.”

Resource:

L Design Studio

Lyndsey Davis Nicklas

6561 Taylor Road #1

Naples, FL 34109

239.260.5165

ldesignstudio.com

A Condo Kitchen Remodel to Entertain Two or 20

Condo remodel projects present their own set of challenges, but Tina Marie Margrander of Tina Marie Interiors was up for the task with this investorpurchased project. Her goal was to offer a finished result that maximizes the unit’s 20th-floor views and allows owners and guests alike to feel comfortable in a space that is coastal without screaming “beach cottage.”

Working with the architect and Houchin Construction, Tina set out to create a floor plan that would make the spaces feel bigger and more inviting, while tackling issues related to condo living and remodeling. The kitchen offered structural challenges. “There were some existing conditions that were not readily available to us when we were designing,” says Tina. “It’s not uncommon when you’re dealing with condos—not every wall is able to come down. You really have to think things through.”

When plumbing pipes and electrical structures could not be relocated, Tina applied her creativity to find a suitable solution. Relocating the breakfast bar to accommodate existing plumbing was one such solution. Additionally, the diminutive eight-foot, three-inch ceiling height created problems and ultimately directed Tina’s design aesthetic for the space. “We wanted to make sure all the finishes felt as bright as possible, so you didn’t notice you had only eight feet, three inches for your ceiling,” says Tina. “By keeping the walls in the white tones, the trim fresh and light tones on the wood elements, we were able to bring a sense of warmth to the space, but not in a way that makes it feel dark or heavy.”

Custom-finished cabinetry by John Jewell, Inc., is presented in two different tones—a white custom paint and a wood tone that is a glazed, riftcut white oak and color matched to the wood floor. Quartz counter-

tops mingle with the tile backsplash, which is a mosaic design of three materials—brass metal, painted glass and marble. “This adds a little bit of gloss and a little bit of sparkle,” says Tina. “Rather than getting too fancy with a color for the backsplash, I did a geometric tone-on-tone that is more classic and appealing.”

Lighting above the 66- by 121-inch breakfast island is a linear Kichler design from Lighting First of Naples. The champagne gold fixture is 38 inches overhead and provides simple lines, but with more interest than a typical island light. Eight counter stools offer plenty of seating to entertain. “I work on making the house feel comfortable and inviting with enough room for 20 people or two,” said Tina. “I want the place to work for the people staying regularly, but with amenities that are thought out and planned for when additional people stay, whether for a quick visit or an extended period.”

The island has plenty of storage on its underside, with touch-latch hardware. Since the views from the generous windows are a main feature, Tina did not want to distract with a lot of upper cabinetry. Appliances tie in seamlessly with white paneling, and include a full-size wine tower, refrigerator and separate freezer.

“I honestly think that the kitchen turned out so pretty,” says Tina. “By taking advantage of all the windows and opening things up, you don’t feel disconnected from the rest of the unit or from the views to the outside.”

Resource:

Tina Marie Interiors, LLC

Tina Marie Margrander

28410 Bonita Crossings Boulevard

Unit 270

Bonita Springs, FL 34135

239.301.085

tinamarie-interiors.com

A Home for Pizza-Lovers in Jupiter

When a fire caused major damage to their 17,000-square-foot house in Jupiter, FL, the homeowners sought out David LaPierre for help in remodeling it. Not only did David salvage the residence, but he also took the opportunity to transform it into the family’s dream home.

David was astonished by the extent of the damage. “It was crazy,”

he says. “I’ve never seen anything like it. Even metal finishes—metal mirrors, metal plumbing fixtures—were completely tarnished and destroyed from the chemicals and smoke.” But he didn’t let that intimidate him.

Before starting the renovation, David and his team had to strip the entire house. “This was a unique situation for me,” he says. “I’ve never worked on a fire-damaged structure before. We had to remove all the

damaged items from the house—appliances, fixtures, finishes, furniture, everything—and then go down to ‘the gray box,’ which is just the cement shell.”

It wasn’t an easy project by any means. The family had to relocate during the renovation, and David stayed in communication with them the entire time, keeping them involved in the process.

The renovation allowed the clients to reconfigure several spaces. David first addressed the many closed-off, compartmentalized places in the home, including the pantry, breakfast room and family room. One of the goals was to open up these spaces so there was more interaction between them.

Another room the clients wanted to update was the kitchen, which presented a challenge concerning the pizza oven. The family loves to make

pizza, and initially had a commercial-style pizza oven built into the kitchen. They used it so much, however, that the kitchen became prohibitively hot. So, after much discussion, the homeowners decided to move the pizza oven to the outdoor area, which David was also redesigning.

The family had a separate pool house and some smaller terraces attached to it, but they wanted an outdoor space where they could entertain guests. David’s solution was to design an outdoor loggia area, which included a sitting area with a four-sided gas fireplace, a full-blown kitchen, a huge grill and the pizza oven—everything needed to entertain outdoors, with a table big enough to accommodate 10 people. To keep the loggia cool, David installed both air conditioning and drop-down isinglass curtains to block the sun.

Due to the renovation, which took two years to complete, the house grew from 17,000 to 21,000 square feet. “It’s a big house,” says David. “We had to file for all new building permits and document what was there. That took six months, and then the build time was about 18 months.”

The effort was well worth it. This pizza-loving family is very happy with the renovation and thrilled to have a cool outdoor kitchen to entertain their guests on hot Florida days.

Resource:

Cardello Architects

David LaPierre

Robert A. Cardello

60 Post Road West Westport, CT 06880

203.853.2524

6 West Putnam Avenue

Greenwich, CT 06830

203.853.2524

cardelloarchitects.com

A Vintage (Yet Modern) Chicago Kitchen

When a young Chicago couple wanted to renovate their home to represent their unique personalities, Jasmin Reese wasn’t afraid to jump in and help them navigate different style choices.

While the pair had disparate tastes, Jasmin met the challenge of designing their kitchen, powder room, dining room, living room and bathrooms. The wife felt comfortable with collections and soft colors, whereas the husband preferred a vintage style with diverse elements. Through a series of style sessions and meetings, however, Jasmin was able to blend together their aesthetics.

Owner of Jasmin Reese Interiors, a Chicago-based residential luxury firm that also services Naples, FL, Jasmin is passionate about pushing people slightly out of their design comfort zone, but not too much. “I start with a style session in the beginning to see how high octane they’ll go and how much I can push them,” she says. “But I don’t like to push people past 10% of their comfort zone, because that’s when things get weird.”

Jasmin enjoys the exploratory phase of the design process almost as much as she likes designing itself. She especially appreciates when her clients make unexpected style choices. The first meeting starts with an inspiration session, where the homeowners look at design pictures. “I try to show them images—things I think they won’t like, and things I think

they might like,” she says. “Sometimes I’m surprised when people say, ‘I love this grouping.’ They might look like Kate Spade up and down, and they like a little punk.”

Jasmin’s background is in fine arts. A painter for many years, she put herself through college, working in design firms and lighting stores, and flipping furniture. She met a lot of homeowners in the process. “I loved working with them,” she says, “and I didn’t even realize at the time that interior design was a profession. I thought you had to be an architect.” She was a natural designer and has been employed in the field ever since.

When Jasmin worked with this particular Chicago couple in the Bucktown area, the design sessions weren’t traditional because many took place during COVID. There were added challenges of meeting virtually as opposed to in person, which can be difficult when you’re designing a home. But Jasmin didn’t let the pandemic stop her from designing. Rather than focusing on the lack of in-person meetings, she looked at the bright side of the virtual ones. “It was a blessing that we could be on Zoom so I could hear them and see their facial expressions,” she recalls. “That was actually a good thing.”

Jasmin knew how important it was for both husband and wife to have “a win” with the design process. To achieve this, she had to navigate some design clashing, but both husband and wife were happy with the results of the renovation. When talking about the floors of the house, says Jas-

min, “Even though the husband might have been super excited about a high-contrast floor, I knew he would be getting some things in another area. So I kind of pushed for more gray, neutral flooring for the wife.” Jasmin made sure the husband got to see his aesthetic when she included some vintage elements in the renovation. “With the kitchen, he was so excited about the vintage-type bar and some cool vintage hardware we incorporated. For the adjacent dining room, we added some medallions to the ceiling, which is a Chicago staple.”

Thanks to the designer’s expert touch, the clients were able to merge their two styles and even find some romance in the process. They discovered a beautiful historic mirror—which looked like it had been in the house forever—and incorporated it into the wall. Jasmin encouraged them to include art pieces they found together to decorate their home, which in the end tells their love story.

Resource:

Jasmin Reese

Jasmin

Reese Interiors

2545 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614 773.857.1240

jasminreeseinteriors.com

Todd Atkins of Phil Kean Kitchens had the unusual challenge of designing and building a kitchen on the third floor of a spec house. The National Homebuilder’s Association had hired Phil Kean and his team to design the custom kitchen of a showhouse in Winter Park, FL.

The house had an urban design, which meant the kitchen was located on the third floor. This floor includes the great room, the dining room and the kitchen. While guests are dining, they get to enjoy the views of Winter Park, which is very scenic.

When designing the kitchen, Todd thought carefully about how he would integrate it into the home’s design. “I want the kitchen to be an extension of the living space and the architecture, so it has a nice flow and complements the other rooms,” he says. “I don’t want the kitchen to be just another room in the house.”

Todd hails from Chicago, where he spent 22 years in traditional design. He’s an alumnus of the Art Institute of Chicago and takes pride in his artistic background, which informs his current role as a designer. Todd had to make quite an adjustment when he relocated to Florida, and it was a learning curve to understand the area’s design culture. One of the challenges he sees in Florida homes is the high ceilings. “Coming down here I found different architecture, interiors and kitchen planning. In the kitchen we do these framing surrounds—that’s the dark wood surrounds we kind of wrap our cabinets in because the ceilings are

so high. They bring the space down so it feels comfortable. Fourteenfoot ceilings don’t always feel so good.”

A crucial element in Todd’s design process is what he refers to as “zones.” He believes it’s important to dedicate particular areas of the kitchen to various activities. A large space needs to feel connected and purposeful—that’s why zone planning is critical for Todd. “There’s prepping, cooking and clean-up zones,” he says. “For your messy kitchen, there’s a section behind retractable doors. You pop it open, and there’s your extra sink, a place to hide your toaster, your blender and your mess. You close the door so nobody sees your mess.”

One of the essential materials used in this showhouse was walnut wood. Todd designed a big dish hutch area, where he could bring out his traditional design background using this material. “I did the walnut, and it has a light stain on it,” he says. “That whole dish hutch is supposed to emulate an antique piece in a turn-of-the-century house.”

It was a fulfilling experience for Todd to create a dish hutch in walnut wood—and it’s not just attractive but fully functional. Todd made sure that homeowners could use it for serving pieces and a second or third set of dishes, and to showcase what they have. It’s a living, beautiful piece.

Todd also designed elegant wall cabinets with mirrors, made for storing everyday glasses, not fancy glasses. “This is your real house,” he says. “And to the right of that, the food pantry is where it actually lays out for a normal space.”

The kitchen design was a collaborative effort involving Phil Kean’s team and many vendors. Todd partnered with Signature Kitchen Suite, which supplied all the appliances, and LX Hausys, which provided the quartz countertop, backsplash and wall treatment at the dish hutch. Other brands Todd worked with on the showhouse were Plato Woodwork, Element Design, Kohler, Kichler Lighting, Emtek Hardware, Rehau, Salice and Hawa.

The final product is a lovely kitchen and dining area that sparkles no matter what time of day.

Resource:

Phil Kean Design Group

Todd Atkins

912 West Fairbanks Avenue

Winter Park, FL 32789

407.622.1636

philkeandesigns.com

An Elegant Naples Kitchen

Mickey Dickson Marzucco of Ecru & Ebony Design is always ready for a challenge as a designer. So when a couple close to retirement asked her to renovate their high-rise condo in Naples, FL, she was more than up for the job. Mickey believes a home should make a person feel comfortable. “We treat your home as yours, not something we deem it should be,” she says. “We design an interactive setting that is innovative and unique to you, our client.”

Mickey worked alongside Marzucco’s Construction, acting as the designer and project manager on the renovation of the 2,200-squarefoot condo. Her first step in the process was to interview the clients to get a sense of their personalities and goals for the space. During her discussion with the couple, Mickey gathered an understanding of their needs and the changes they wanted to see in their apartment.

One area the couple asked to be improved was the kitchen. They wanted a larger kitchen that felt more open and airy. They also needed to find a way to incorporate their washer/dryer. “I proposed a new kitchen layout,” says Mickey. “We had to demo the space, build the new wall layout, and add the necessary electrical needed for a

new lighting plan. The renovation also involved rerouting and some plumbing, as we removed the laundry room to enlarge the kitchen.”

In the design process, Mickey was able to hide the units behind a pocketing door within the kitchen. It was a bit challenging to pocket laundry doors because of the venting and plumbing, but Mickey figured out how to do it. Additionally, there was still enough storage space in the kitchen, and the washer/dryer was inconspicuous.

Mickey notes that high-rise condo renovations come with their unique obstacles. “High-rise renovations can be challenging in themselves,” she says. “The desire to ‘raise the ceiling’ is always a request, so keeping the dropped soffit for the mechanicals and sprinkler heads and having the full height within gave us just that.”

Another unexpected challenge was trying to incorporate a kitchen island. Instead of the traditional island, Mickey and the couple settled on a rolling cart with locking wheels, which was designed to appear as part of the kitchen cabinetry.

One of the unique features of this kitchen is the choice of

materials used. Mickey wanted to give the couple an attractive space where they could feel comfortable both cooking and entertaining. She chose quartzite countertops and stone backsplash, which meld together beautifully to create a statement room. “Photos do not do them justice,” says Mickey. “And a customized, higher quality cabinet line always gives us the freedom to make tweaks and changes for depths or heights.”

Mickey is content with the renovation process and believes it went smoothly. The kitchen has a design and feel that the homeowners love.

Resource:

Mickey Dickson Marzucco

Ecru & Ebony Design

5401 Taylor Road, Suite 4 Naples, FL 34109

239.825.1487

ecruandebonydesign.com

PERSONAL REFLECTION

A homeowner’s fashionable, eclectic style shaped her high-rise remodel.

Story by Heather Shoning | Photography by Blaine Jonathan

The wood-clad feature wall and wooden beams bring tons of warmth into this living room, creating a cozy place to gather with family and friends. Accents such as the side tables, a lamp and chair frames bring sophisticated glamour that reflects the wife’s aesthetic.

Lighting was perfect for bringing the client’s style into specific rooms. In the bar area, Jenna selected a Fine Art Lamps chandelier with crystal leaves that cascade down. The incredible granite slab covers the entire wall next to the cased opening to the couple’s office.

Jenna Getchell has designed the interiors of dozens of high-rise condominiums in Naples, FL, and these condos always present with some structural limitations. In a recent project for a couple in The Dunes of Naples community, she had to work around the only structural pillar in the unit and create an open floor plan that reflects the wife’s personal style. “She is a very eclectic individual,” Jenna says of her client. “She has a lot of style, is very fashionable, and wanted a home that really connected to her personal style.”

To that end, Jenna, founder and creative director of J. Lynn Design Group, sought to bring a mix of organic materials and touches of glam to capture her client’s character and aesthetic. But first she had to solve the layout issues of the 3,000-square-foot, three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom unit. The kitchen was completely closed off from the other main living areas, and the homeowners wanted a modern, open floor plan better suited to entertaining. Jenna is proud of the new, open space she designed. “I have yet to see any other unit in this building with a floor plan that opens the kitchen this way,” she says. “Most people have remodeled keeping the original kitchen layout that was developed with the building.”

In opening up the floor plan, Jenna carefully ensured that the individual spaces were still delineated by using beautiful ceiling treatments, such as beams and tray ceilings with rich wood trim. The condo had dated irregular angles, so Jenna squared everything up with 90-degree angles, making

The lanai is hurricane shuttered so it can be completely enclosed for rainy days, but still be used. Jenna designed a slab feature wall with an integrated fireplace and television for the outdoor living room. The furnishings are from Restoration Hardware.

the overall feeling neat, clean, larger and decidedly more contemporary. Jenna selected one paint color for the entire main living area to create consistency and the feel of more significant space. The wood flooring is consistent throughout the condo. “You’ll see hints of the walnut and rift white oak woods from the ceiling details to the entertainment center, the bar and even the entry doors off the elevator lobby,” she says.

The kitchen sets the tone for the organic-plus-glam design aesthetic. With its sleek, curved lines and mirror-like finish, the custom, polished stainless-steel range hood is the focal point of this space. But it’s not the designer’s only touch. The upper cabinets feature a unique design detail fashioned by Jenna. “The handle is the same finish as the cabinetry—creating an integrated handle—and then I recessed polished stainless steel around it to complement the hood material,” she says. The lower cabinets have nickel pulls with inlaid mother-of-pearl accents. “These provide another eclectic feel with a touch of glam that speaks to

the owner’s style,” Jenna adds.

Jenna says she’s seeing her clients trending away from stark white cabinetry, opting for subtle color. For this kitchen she specified a barelythere soft gray, which ties in nicely with the metal accents and mosaic backsplash. “We choose a light gray that gives the light and airy feel of white, but isn’t as typical as standard white Shaker cabinets,” Jenna says. Taj Mahal quartzite countertops cover the walnut wood island and the perimeter cabinetry, featuring waterfall edges.

Opposite the range wall, Jenna designed a series of open shelving above a serving area where a wall once closed off the kitchen. Adjoining that is the one structural column, which she opted to highlight with mirrors to draw attention away from the column and reflect opposing spaces. SubZero and Wolf appliances complete the kitchen and an adjacent bar area.

By opening the kitchen and squaring off octagonal angles, Jenna created a seamless floor plan throughout the main living areas. While the spaces are now open to each other, they remain delineated with tray ceiling details that carry walnut wood throughout the condo.

What had been a half-octagonal sitting area with a fireplace is now the bar that Jenna squared up to create a modern layout. She brought plumbing through for a sink and complete wet bar setup. Two features stand out in this area: The first is the beveled rift white oak detail in the seating area, and the second is the highly veined granite countertops, backsplash and feature wall. The wife likes natural elements, and this is one of her favorites. “She loves that when you look closely at the slab, it looks earth-like,” Jenna says. “It’s like looking down at earth with sand, rock and organic elements.”

Also adjoining the kitchen, the dining room is a lesson in contrast with its live-edge wood slab dining table and seating for up to 10—perfect for entertaining—and the fluid, sculptural polished stainless-steel chandelier. Dynamic abstract art adds the perfect amount of color to the otherwise neutral palette.

The living room was the one place the husband had a design request—a large television with three screens for the ultimate in sports viewing. Jenna developed a feature wall for the televisions and fireplace using warm walnut tongue-and-groove wood. “Instead of creating something with shelving or additional knickknacks, we wanted it to be very clean, but also add some texture and depth to the room,” she says. It’s all about comfort in this space, with the large, cozy sectional from Burton James. Restoration Hardware chairs with curved backs bring the polished metal look to this room, creating design continuity. The seating surrounds a unique sculptural wood cocktail table from Mimi London, Inc. The living room connects to the L-shaped lanai with an outdoor living area, and wraps around to include an outdoor dining area off the indoor dining room.

The client wanted something neutral but with high contrast in the primary suite. To keep the look from falling flat, Jenna added texture with

The Artistic Tile glass backsplash adds a hint of bling throughout the home. A Hudson Valley chandelier, with its entwined S-curve glass pieces, meshes the client’s sophisticated and organic styles.

a geometric-patterned hide rug and striated wallcovering from Innovations. Swivel chairs from Restoration Hardware allow the homeowners to turn and enjoy the outdoor views. Jenna introduced an organic element replete with bling in the side table lamps that look like driftwood but are made from silver. “They add a little bit of the character,” Jenna says. “The unexpected jewel piece brings in the organic texture, and the silver brings in a little bit of the bling.”

Jenna departed from her normal process to create a stunning primary bathroom. “Typically, you select the tile and then go find your slab months later, but we selected the slab first and designed around that,” she says. Because the slab they found was so striking, she abandoned an earlier iteration of the bathroom design. Once the remarkable slab was chosen, Jenna found a floor and wall tile that would draw from the

Once Jenna and the homeowners saw the striking black-and-white stone slab, they disregarded the original bathroom selections, and Jenna redesigned around this prominent feature. She selected floor and wall tile and cabinetry colors to allow the stone to shine.

background colors of the slab and let it shine. Large-format tiles give the feel of a slab on the walls, while the floor features the same style in 12- by 24-inch tiles in a herringbone pattern. Jenna specified a charcoal finish for the cabinetry, with black and nickel hardware. To amplify the bling, crystal rod sconces from Fine Art Lamps are mounted on the double-vanity-width mirror. The wallcovering used in the primary bedroom lines the tray ceiling to create cohesiveness. And the much-used polished nickel appears here, too, in the fixtures.

The primary bedroom is accessed through the primary closet. A transitional space between that and the home’s main living areas is a vestibule where Jenna designed a three-way mirror dressing area. Multiple light fixtures from Fine Art Lamps dot the space. “Our client loves Fine Art Lamps because of all their crystal jewel-type fixtures,” Jenna says. The stool the wife brought to this home reflects the homeowner’s bold style, as does the rest of the home. “She has a very bold, beautiful personality with lots of color and lots of bling, but she also loves the organic nature of things,” Jenna says. “Her home shows a nice mix of her different styles and aesthetic.”

Resource:

J. Lynn Design Group Jenna Getchell 239.784.7134 jlynn-design.com

Jenna stepped up the ceiling treatment in the primary bedroom by adding a second walnut trim feature. The crisp white walls allow the depth of the black accents to pop while keeping the area light and bright. She rounded out the design with a dresser from Bernhardt Interiors and a pair of nightstands from Century Furniture.

LMG Design Consulting

Interior designer Lisa Guild, the principal of LMG Design Consulting Inc., has been designing homes for over three decades. Originally from the Midwest, she relocated to Southwestern Florida with the hope of bringing character and authenticity to local interior design projects. Today, with offices in Naples and Sarasota, her team specializes in high-end residential design and has gained a reputation for creating diverse and unique interior spaces featuring a wide variety of styles.

“One thing I’ve learned over the last 30 years is to never lose sight of the client,” Lisa says. “We listen to what the clients want and then elevate their ideas to a broader place to achieve the best possible outcome. We do a huge breadth of work—traditional, transitional, modern, cottage—because we are led by our clients, not our own design aesthetics. They understand we never do the same thing twice.”

Lisa recently hired Casey O’Brien as a design consultant. With a degree in business and an extensive education in interior design under her belt, Casey had moved from New Jersey to Florida and set up shop doing design plans for builders and developers.

In a chance encounter, she met Lisa while creating renderings for the same building company Lisa was working with on a project. It didn’t take long for Casey to become integral to LMG’s team of four designers and an office administrator.

How are things going after three years of collaboration? “We have a team approach to all our projects, but Lisa and I are often collaborating on projects,” Casey tells us. “I work closely with Lisa, doing everything necessary on a project, from design to installation and everything in between, including selecting materials and furnishings, and interfacing with clients.”

Asked what she brings to the team, Casey responds, “We have very similar design philosophies, but the difference in our ages brings two different perspectives to the firm.” Like many younger-generation interior designers, Casey excels at a digital approach to interior design, while Lisa is a master of interacting with the clients. “Within the team,” Casey continues, “we are proficient in drafting, SketchUp, V-Ray and hand sketching. Every member brings a skill set that enhances the client experience.”

Story by Meryl Siegman

Lisa adds, “Each of us is constantly learning, travelling and expanding our design sensibilities.” She says specifically about Casey, “It’s great that she has a business degree, but what I appreciate the most is that her design aesthetics are fueled by her trips and experiences travelling around the U.S. and abroad. Her travel has shaped her vision of what people like to have in their homes.” On a recent trip to Lisbon, Portugal, for example, Casey spent much time visiting the National Tile Museum, immersing herself in studying the patterns in the tiles and how they work. “She came back with new ideas about how to help our clients,” says Lisa. “Travelling is something she has done her whole life, giving her the ability to understand trends, concepts and designs.

Lisa Guild Casey O’Brien

You can’t teach that experience.” Both Lisa and Casey are proud of the fact that most of their projects come from repeat business and referrals; they often work with multiple members of the same family.

The two designers remain fueled by what their clients are asking for. For example, Lisa says she is thrilled that people are embracing color and pattern in wallpaper again. “We are doing chinoiserie, lacquer, large patterns. It’s a ‘more is more’ concept, and it’s so exciting for us,” she says. “Our design work is constantly different and changing. We are absolutely driven by

our interactions with our clients and what they want.”

Resource:

LMG Design Consulting Inc.

Lisa Guild

Casey O’Brien

6001 Taylor Road

Naples, FL 34109

239.293.0016

lmgdesignconsulting.com