INSIDE LOOK: The Sanibel

Are you looking for a coastal floor plan that takes advantage of panoramic views? If so, look no further than the Sanibel.

When we approached resident designer, Susan Herring, about developing a fresh look for our Sanibel model at Bayside, she had just returned from the High Point Furniture Market held biannually in North Carolina. “I always come home inspired to start a new project with all the amazing things I see at market,” said Susan. Instantly, she knew she would use the Sanibel model to showcase what is arguably America’s hottest design trend: Modern Farmhouse.

In the Sanibel’s inverted layout—often referred to as a reverse floor plan—the positioning of the secondary bedrooms on the lower level enable us to capitalize on the open ceiling created above the main living areas. Susan married old with new by adorning the dramatic ceiling with a modern flair that included reimagined farmhouse elements such as white exposed triangular beams and planking in the window dormers. The cathedral ceiling presents an old-world charm with high windows and soaring ceilings that are visually striking while also providing an abundance of natural light.

Positioned under a windmill ceiling fan, the expansive great room easily accommodates the sizable furniture that invites comfort and coziness—all anchored by an area rug that inspired the home’s color palette. Another dramatic feature of the Sanibel is the two-story open stairwell adjacent to the great room. Staying true to the theme, Susan used a black iron railing and matte black light fixtures to contrast the soft surrounding color palette. “I always design a unique wall treatment for this important space because it is seen from both the first and second floor,” explained Susan. For this model, she incorporated an architectural statement in the form of simple black candle lanterns.

The Sanibel kitchen is easily described in two words: captivating and functional. With a large counter-height bar that comfortably seats six, and a center island conveniently located near all the appliances, this kitchen instantly doubles your dining and entertainment space. If you prefer the “command center” benefits of one large island, there is an option for that, too. To accommodate the busiest chef, this workhorse kitchen features numerous decorative cabinets and storage cupboards as well as a walk-in pantry. Just when we thought white painted cabinets were the only way to achieve a farmhouse appeal, Susan wowed us with her ability to think outside the box. “I chose a dark gray stain called Gauntlet to add a sense of richness,” she explained. The dark cabinetry paired with rustic wood floors, a subtle pastel glass backsplash, white modern wainscoting, and black accents create a quintessential farmhouse setting that makes visitors leave with kitchen envy. By adding the square footage for an extended dining room, Susan was able to include a large dining table while incorporating a focal point along the wall that backs to the primary suite. The extended dining room also allows for a deeper covered porch off the great room, providing ample space for an outdoor fireplace or a built-in grill. There is no doubt that this space will increase the amount of time you and your guests will spend outside, especially if you create a small dining area, as Susan did.

This brings us to the dreamy primary suite, nestled just off the dining room. Susan took this incredibly spacious enclave to the next level by adding horizontal planking on the bed wall and seating alcove. The small round dining table in front of the window seat invites homeowners to enjoy the view while sipping morning coffee or ending the day with a glass of wine.

The primary suite bathroom is just as impressive. Its generous size gave Susan the opportunity to feature a new rustic-patterned floor tile, along with a complementary gray subway tile on the walls for a modern vibe. The model features an optional freestanding tub, a large shower, two spacious walk-in closets, and a separate water closet. Uniquely designed with a secondary access to the laundry room, the bathroom is also especially convenient for those most likely to be responsible for laundry duties.

To accommodate a family’s evolving needs, the flex room includes a large closet, ideal as a complement to a bedroom or for organizing office supplies in the study as shown in this model. What makes this space even more flexible is the opportunity to add a full bathroom in lieu of the storage closet. Since the Sanibel includes a dedicated powder room off the foyer, this bathroom off the flex room transforms the space into a true guest suite.

The first floor recreation room is open for personalization and may be used as a second living area or a game room with an optional entertainment wall or wet bar. Having showcased this room as a secondary lounge space in the last two models, Susan chose the entertainment wall with a mini bar here. “I wanted to do something a little different in this model to show another way to use this space,” explained Susan. Just off the recreation room is a screened patio that provides an alternate outdoor lounge area where you and your guests can enjoy the fresh air without the nuisance of insects.

If you need one more reason to fall in love with this floor plan, it is the only home in our lineup that includes a 3-car front entry garage, offering generous space to store your favorite ride along with kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes— all the essentials for your new beach lifestyle. Even if you opt for the elevator option that occupies a portion of the double garage door bay, you’ll have plenty of room for two vehicles and storage.

From high ceilings to out-of-thisworld entertaining spaces, the Sanibel is without a doubt a fan favorite. In life, it’s all about the details that make a day so memorable. We believe the same rules should apply when designing a new floor plan. We’ve mastered the structural part. Now it’s up to you and the help of our design team to make it your own!