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Why does everyone love the kitchen?

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ESTATE LIFESTYLES

ESTATE LIFESTYLES

Many of our fondest memories are made in the kitchen, so it’s no surprise we all want this room to be perfect

It’s one of the great mysteries of life. You’ve sorted a great playlist, stocked the wine and chilled the beer. The aroma of home cooking fills the air, and you’ve cleaned like never before. Even the tricky spots. Your living areas look their best, with everything in place, ready for the party to begin.

An hour later, guests have arrived. But instead of socializing in the living room or milling around on the lanai, where is everyone? The kitchen. Like moths to a flame. Why? Why aren’t they enjoying all the comforts, little touches and great atmosphere you’ve created elsewhere?

If you’re honest, you’ll admit it. You’re as guilty of gravitating to the kitchen as everyone else.

What makes it so magical?

Across the globe, nearly every major holiday revolves around making and eating special foods together. We convene around meals every day, and we celebrate special occasions with food. The acts of preparing and indulging in certain foods bring back nostalgic memories and amplify key moments in our lives. It’s where we learned to make passeddown family recipes, took a first cooking lesson or helped our mother prepare our favorite dishes.

As Chris Wharton, a professor of nutrition at Arizona State University put it: “Food represents a sort of defining narrative about us and connects us to our families and our culture.”

Simply stated, life happens in the kitchen. This may partially explain its magnetism. From rushed breakfasts before you head out the door to family meals to sharing a drink with friends, the kitchen is the activity hub of the home. It needs to be both functional and attractive. Whether you’re cooking, cleaning, eating or entertaining, the kitchen should be a space you enjoy being in, and thoughtful kitchen design can help make that happen.

“The kitchen is the one space in the house everybody uses daily, even your pet,” said Karen Velasco-Carter, Associate AIA, lead cabinet designer and director of architectural services for EDGE, a Naples-based custom cabinetry, interior design and space planning company.

“In most homes,” Carter acknowledges, “the kitchen gets the most foot traffic. This is why having the right layout, the right appliances and the right storage will make this space easy to use and enjoy.”

Nick Radick, director of marketing for Naplesbased Knauf-Koenig Group, an award-winning general contractor, also appreciates the importance of the kitchen, calling it “the most important room in the home.”

“From the professional side and thinking resale, the top rooms that buyers look at are the kitchen and master suite,” he said. “Having a top-of-theline kitchen assists largely in commanding top dollar for homes we build. On the personal side of things, I recently remodeled my kitchen with new cabinets, hardware, and countertops. Not only does it give me a sense of pride, but I also know it was money well spent if (or when) I go to sell my home.”

Creating the heart of the home

Everyone, from the architect to the interior designer, and especially the homeowner, wants the kitchen to be the home’s center of activity. “You’re not parading many people through your master bedroom to show it off,” said Radick, “so the kitchen is THE area where the homeowner can really impress friends and family.”

As a kitchen designer, Carter acknowledges the most important thing to consider when designing a home’s kitchen is the client and how they envision themselves using and living in the space.

“The kitchen is a functional room but at the same time is a gathering place where families sit, stay and move around while they are preparing their meals and sharing the day-to-day activities,” she said. “It should be functional but at the same time aesthetically pleasing.”

Combining the right ingredients

From double islands and built-in seating to ample storage and thoughtful lighting, there are several factors which help make the kitchen more welcoming.

Both Karen Carter and Nick Radick agree a kitchen island is a great asset. Serving double duty as an informal dining area, an island provides more seating space when hosting family gatherings and parties. Creating a space for people to gather while you’re finishing last-minute meal prep allows you to be productive and socialize at the same time.

“The kitchen island simply acts as the area with the largest space to have people around, whether standing or sitting comfortably,” said Radick. “People tend to gather around the island to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and have a cocktail while the host finishes up prepping.”

“Personally, I think double islands are the best option,” said Carter. “They give more flexibility and space for appliances, storage and sitting areas, which works well for families who like to cook and entertain at the same time. Also, if they have kids, they can sit and do their homework while the rest of the family uses the other island as a prep and cooking area.”

Not only are double islands and more space advantageous from a storage perspective, but they are also utilized as the dining space for the family, a homework area for kids, a crafting area for the homeowner and another conversation area for guests.

“A great cabinet designer is also an extremely important member of the team,” Radick added.

A perfect recipe

Carter and Radick agree the best way to create an efficient kitchen is to connect it to the home’s other main rooms, such as the great room, so that during cooking time, family and guests can be part of one big room.

“Having the kitchen in a central area of an open floor plan allows the host to entertain more skillfully,” said Radick.

According to Carter, another way to optimize the kitchen is to divide it into stations: prep station, cleaning station, cooking station, food storage station and non-food storage station. “Recognizing and organizing these areas accordingly will help maximize the kitchen efficiency,” she added.

“Certainly, having all your appliances in the right location and proximity also makes the space more useful,” she said.

What all these trends point to are the ever-growing desires for added convenience, efficient use of living area and the ability to maximize family and entertainment time. The latest styles in kitchen design and architecture certainly support this appeal. Luxury buyers truly want the style of their homes to be compatible with their lives.

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$3,149,000

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This fabulous homesite is waiting for its new owner to build their waterfront dream home. Perfectly situated where the canal meets the wide waterway out to Turkey Bay and Wiggins Pass. JRWeb# H7292

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3BR/2BA+1Half | $2,975,000

Waterfront living with the desirable beautiful and bright rear southern exposure! Welcome home to one of the most beautiful canal streets in the Vanderbilt area. JRWeb# H7300

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5BR/3BA | $2,950,000

Absolutely stunning wide water views with close proximity to the beach, shopping and dining. The exterior is in the process of being completely updated to give a more modern look.

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Stunning light and bright southwest end unit with magical views over Turtle Bay to the Gulf of Mexico and Old Collier golf course to the east. Elevator offers private entry into residence. Includes two deeded under-building parking spaces. JRWeb# C8049

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Amazing high-end remodel in the Esperia highrise. Sought-after open floor plan with kitchen, living room and dining room all open with water views. JRWeb# C7805

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1391 Cutler Court $2,650,000

This is a large, half-acre lot with southern exposure and quick direct boating access to the Gulf. New seawall in February 2022. JRWeb# L5533

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Janice Broyles (239) 322-9434

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4021

Gulf and bay views, direct Gulf frontage. Walk onto the beach via the landscaped park which is currently being redesigned and enhanced. JRWeb# C8058

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High and dry! Nestled in the heart of Collier Woods sits this impeccably designed and architecturally enhanced estate home on 2.5 acres. JRWeb# H6836

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650 108th Avenue N 4BR/3BA | $2,500,000

Stunning coastal contemporary home ready for immediate occupancy. Turnkey home offering the finest in furnishings, accessories, and all the items needed to live life beautifully in Naples! JRWeb# H8098

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449 8th Avenue S #105 2BR+Den/2BA+1Half | $2,495,000

Beautifully renovated villa is a showcase for timeless sophistication, nestled in Old Naples between 5th Avenue and 3rd Street South. Just three blocks to the beach. JRWeb# V7062

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Larry Lappin (239) 571-8247

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538 104th Avenue N 4BR/2BA+1Half | $1,985,000

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8430 Abbington Circle #C15

2BR/2BA+1Half | $1,625,000

Relaxing golf course and lake views perfectly framed by mature trees. Quality furnishings and accessories are included with this wonderful updated home. JRWeb# C7787

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Beth McNichols, PA (239) 821-3304

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3BR/2BA | $1,615,000

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Robert Vesci, PA (239) 450-7575

The Dunes of Naples

300 Dunes Boulevard #301

3BR/3BA | $1,599,000

Rarely available, high-rise condo with over 2,187 square feet of living space, a huge wraparound lanai and gorgeous panoramic views.

JRWeb# C6743

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Mary Jo Chamberlin (239) 405-9080

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695 100th Avenue N 3BR/2BA | $1,595,000

This gorgeous, remodeled, professionallydesigned, contemporary coastal home is movein ready and turnkey furnished! JRWeb# H7278

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Greg Gorman, PA (239) 784-2841

David Burke (239) 784-2831

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This turnkey, custom-built home is for the boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spectacular water views. JRWeb# H5137

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Jean Williamson (239) 691-7100

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Frank Ehrhardt (239) 896-3437

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3BR+Den/3BA+1Half | $1,495,000

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Judy Hansen (239) 248-4735

Curt Stevens (239) 280-2005

Marco Island

380 Rookery Court

4BR/3BA | $1,495,000

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TheNeedlesGroup.com

Scott Needles (239) 248-4163

Stacy Witthoff (239) 248-3231

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8127 Wilshire Lakes Boulevard

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Doug Grant (239) 860-0005

Samantha Taravella (239) 908-1158

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17080 Harbour Point Drive #1215

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Diana Coyle (239) 220-4534

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Roxane Menna (239) 398-8635

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Patrick Dearborn (239) 877-4340

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The Colony at Pelican Landing

The Colony at Pelican Landing

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Jill Kushner (239) 691-5505

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714 103rd Avenue N

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Robert Vesci, PA (239) 450-7575

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4155 Dingman Drive

4BR/5BA | $1,195,000

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830

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Annie Hagstrom (239) 231-9999

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Doug Stewart (239) 777-8686

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Valerie Masse (239) 233-2370

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3664

Rarely available cottage invites you to experience the lifestyle and amenities of one of the most unique communities in southwest Florida. JRWeb# H7554

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Lynne Hancock (239) 289-4272

Elise Mittler (239) 272-7198

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This home is so meticulous, you will think no one lives here! Roof, screen cage, lanai floor, and outdoor kitchen all professionally cleaned. JRWeb# H7304

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Alysia Testa (239) 961-2138

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Blair White (239) 270-8614

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Habitat for Humanity

Peter Davis has been a Habitat for Humanity volunteer for over 20 years. He volunteers locally in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, building homes alongside other volunteers and the hard-working homeowners who, along with qualifying for a home loan and completing financial literacy classes, must contribute at least 300 hours of sweat equity into their future homes, or those of other Habitat homeowners. Peter has also participated in two week-long Jimmy Carter Work Project builds, one in Veracruz, Mexico in 2004 as a builder and on-site Spanish translator, and another in Los Angeles in 2007, working side by side with President Carter and Rosalynn Carter. “It’s such a great feeling to be a part of helping families in my community become homeowners.”

Annual Walk & Jewelry Sale for Alzheimer’s Association

Paula See participated in the annual walk and jewelry sale on November 19 at Baker Park to help raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association in Naples. The Promise Garden Flowers on walk day share a story. The blue flowers represents a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia; the orange flower represents a world without Alzheimer’s; the purple flower represents a lost loved one to Alzheimer’s; and the yellow flower represents a person caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. A total of $12,600 was presented to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Emily K. Bua and Tade Bua Bell

Starry Nights at The Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort

Emily K. Bua and Tade Bua-Bell attended Youth Haven’s Starry Nights as sponsors for this inaugural event chaired by Ingrid and Fabricio Aielli. The Gala was held at The RitzCarlton Beach Resort. The event raised over $1,500,000 with the funds benefiting the children and teens of our community who have suffered from abuse, neglect and abandonment. A truly wonderful evening was enjoyed by all.

Crazy Pants Event for the Pace Center for Girls, Immokalee

Patrick Dearborn, board member and recently inducted Hall Of Fame for John R Wood Christie’s International Real Estate, has been asked again to participate as a model for ‘Crazy Pants Too’ benefiting the Pace Center For Girls/Collier County. Patrick and his friend David Watts received the highest bid for their ‘crazy pants ‘ at the 2020 event which raised over $50,000. Pace Center For Girls is an amazing organization that helps impact and empower the next generation of women.

Donna Marcotte

LuxuryLivingSWFL.com (239) 851-1964

DMarcotte@JohnRWood.com

Donna Marcotte has lived in Southwest Florida since 1997. She honed her sales and customer service skills during a prior 14year career in hotel group sales for private resorts and hotels. Donna then joined WCI Communities, a Southwest Florida luxury homebuilder and developer, representing their communities at upscale country clubs and on-site sales. Over this 19-year period, she learned the importance of the luxury lifestyle choice in the buyers’ selection of their home purchase, becoming an amenities authority in the local market. Donna is active in the Bonita Estero Association of Realtors and The Rotary Club of Bonita Springs.

Beth McNichols

(239) 821-3304

BMcNichols@JohnRWood.com

With over 70 years of total experience of selling homes in Naples, the McNichols team has the depth of knowledge to help you find or sell your home. Beth has been providing her professional full-time expertise for over 40 years. Capt. Joe, a Naples Native, was a professional fishing guide and knows the waterfront. Angela, is a full-time REALTOR® with the team, having moved to Naples from Eau Claire, Wisconsin. “Let us put our knowledge to work for you!”

Nandy Miller (239) 248-4414

NMiller@JohnRWood.com

As a long time Naples resident and member of the John R. Wood Hall of Fame, Nandy’s experience and local knowledge is an asset to both buyers and sellers. Her personal attention and dedication to professionalism will exceed your expectations. Gulf coast to golf course “Nandy Knows Naples.”

Elise Starr

TheStarrFamilyTeam.com (239) 209-3960

Elise.LuxuryProperty@gmail.com

Top performing team serving anyone, anywhere, at any price point. The Starr Family Team is the team that helps you achieve your real estate goals. As Certified Negotiation Experts, they will always put your needs first. The Starrs live in a waterfront community and have extensive knowledge of waterfront properties. Why not preview your next waterfront property by boat with them? Come experience Southwest Florida with The Starr Family Team!

Jill Rogers & Lexi Martin

Jill Rogers | Naples34108.com (239) 450-6856 | JRogers@JohnRWood.com

Lexi Martin | LexiMartinRealtor.com (239) 776-1210 | LMartin@JohnRWood.com

Resourceful, industrious, and passionate about people and their profession, Jill and Lexi are thrilled to be recognized since 2011 as both #1 Naples Resale High-Rise Tower Realtors and #1 Pelican Bay and Bay Colony Realtors. Long-time residents of Bay Colony, Pelican Bay, and North Naples, they offer laserfocused, powerful, deep knowledge specific to the Bay Colony, Pelican Bay and Gulf Shore market segments.

Robert Vesci

RobertVesci.com (239) 450-7575

Robert@BonitaNaplesResidence.com

Robert has lived in Naples for 33 years and has been selling real estate locally for over 25 of those years. His wife, Julie, along with their 2 children, Madison and Ryder, and 3 dogs, Lola, Luna and Betty, all love living in SW Florida. They embrace the outdoor lifestyle that living here offers, whether at the beach, fishing, kayaking, camping and playing tennis or pickle ball.

Broker associate | REALTOR ® | CRS | Gulfshore Life’s Five-Star Real Estate Agent Award | JRW Diamond Circle of Excellence JRW President’s Advisory Council

The Lickley Group (239) 860-4661

TheLickleyGroup@JohnRWood.com

The Lickley Group’s outstanding reputation for the professional marketing of distinguished properties and their in-depth knowledge of the local market makes them a “go-to” resource for luxury sellers. The Lickley Group has an established record and is known for discretion, privacy, and the ability to coordinate with buyers the finer points of today’s ever more sophisticated transactions.

Jeff Warden

JeffKnowsNaples.com

(239) 449-2877

JWarden@JohnRWood.com

Jeff has been in the “people” business for over 45 years and prides himself on integrity, loyalty, and persistent communication with his customers. He thrives on having a fun experience and developing lasting relationships. Jeff is always prepared to do what it takes to get the job done. A broker in Indiana and a Sales Associate in Florida, Jeff is your residential specialist.

Anita Colletti

AnitaRealtor.com

(239) 250-0700

AColletti@JohnRWood.com

2014 Realtor of the Year and past Board of Realtors President, Anita specializes in Naples area luxury properties and high quality investment real estate. She is known for her dedication to professionalism and above and beyond customer service. Anita is a leading advocate to promote local, state and national homeownership rights legislation and donates a portion of each closing to various charities.

ABR, AHWD, C2EX, CDPE, CIPS, CNE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, LTG, PMN, RSPS, SFR, SRES 2015 Hall of Fame, National Association of Realtors®

Laurie Bellico

LaurieBellico.com (239) 293-9389

LBellico@JohnRWood.com

A Fairfield County CT native, Laurie has built her SWFL real estate practice on a steady stream of client referrals over the past 23 years. She is passionate and determined with a “never give up” personality and strong work ethic. The #1 Single Agent for Closed Sales Volume in 2021 and a member of John R. Wood’s Hall of Fame, Laurie is well known for her superior service and skillful negotiation of complex transactions. She loves helping people, and she loves SWFL real estate! A Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist.

Kathy Hee https://youtu.be/_MW0cfL5t00 (239) 659-6167

KHee@JohnRWood.com

How do you chose a REALTOR®? Base it on their testimonials. Customers refer Kathy due to their personal experience of her finding them a home or selling their home. She strives for 5-star ratings. Kathy recently received the Rising Star Award out of 700+ agents! Please view her Top 10 Reasons to Move to Naples, FL on YouTube to get a sense of who she is and what Naples can offer you.

Mitch & Sandi Williams

MitchAndSandi.com (239) 370-8879 M.SWms@JohnRWood.com

As consistent JRW Diamond Circle of Excellence top producers, Mitch and Sandi go above and beyond for their selling and buying clients! Their philosophy is a home benefits from being in market condition to achieve today’s market values. They will coordinate and oversee a complimentary Certified Home Staging Professional to obtain an irresistible oasis within your living space! They show properties by boat or from air using drone photos or videos. The team has 35 years of expertise in new construction, waterfront plus golf communities as well as contract negotiations.

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