Your Home Magazine | Vol. 4 | Iss. 3 | John Garuti

YOUR HOME BABCOCK RANCH

POOL & PATIO

TRENDS +

SUMMER PARTY RECIPES

John Garuti III Licensed FL Realtor®

941.916.2859

john@jg3homes.com www.jg3homes.com

“Alligators are biologically hardwired to respond to anything making unusual waves or ripples in the lakes, rivers, and ponds.” - Charles Sobczak Author: Alligators, Sharks & Panthers, Deadly Encounters with Florida’s Top Predator-Man (2007)

- *Charles Sobczak

Attention Babcock Ranch Neighbors, My ancestors have been successfully thriving here for 160 millions years. We have fought tooth, scale and skin, just to stay alive.

Ironically, we set the standard of living as we migrate through the waterpools of life. Engineering an ecosystem is not for the faint of heart and as a keystone species, thousands depend on us to survive. During the dry season we use our feet and tails to excavate personal aquatic habitats which awaken dormant seeds, insects, fish and frog eggs. Life is revitalized in the blink of an eye.

Population control is another managerial role we truly hope no one takes personally. When nature calls, we must “feed the beast.”

Despite providing invaluable stewardship, the critics are tough.

We had no say in your arrival but nevertheless, are committed to evolving peacefully for the sheer sake of survival. When we change the environment, we regulate balance and ignite life for others to thrive. What are your contributions to the Babcock Ranch ecosystem? Does it support my relatives and our ‘Right to Life’?

Photograph by Brad Wasmus

Photograph by Elizabeth Jennifer

Photograph by Richard Kinley

Photograph by Gail Webb Parker

Cohabitational-ly yours,

Alligator Ambassadors of Babcock Ranch

Safety Tips to Coexistence – Fireside chat with Brad Wasmus,

Florida Naturalist & BR Community Patrol Officer

FEEDING ALLIGATORS IS A FELONY! When alligators are fed they become dangerous to humans. Call Community Patrol 239-652-8000 24/7 for Emergency Wildlife Assistance.

It only takes one person making the mistake one time.

Feeding an alligator always segways to tragedy... * Mating season (March-June) Everyone is looking for a date and a chance to procreate! Males aggressively defend their territory and alpha gators eat or force smaller gators out of the water. * Alligators are exemplary mothers that ferociously protect their nest, eggs and hatchlings from predators. Egg season is June through July and hatching begins mid September. * Alligators are ambush predators. Stay clear of the water’s edge particularly at dawn and dusk. * Check under cars, front doors, porches and keep garage doors closed to deter strays. * Know your: neighborhood, trees, bushes and animal right-of-ways between retention ponds. * If you are fishing and a gator takes your bait, cut the line and pack it up. Once a gator enters the area, it is TIME TO LEAVE. * If you encounter an alligator while: walking your dog or hiking a trail, VACATE THE AREA.

Photograph by Darcy Willis Overman

These reptiles have a right to life and so do you; think consciously and act accordingly.

GATOR TRACKS PRINTS: Staggered claw marks, toe webbing and a tail drag.

GATOR NEST: matted down entry and exit ways to the water on south facing embankments.

SCAT: Fresh ‘gator taters’ are brown and dry white. Gators poop where they routinely sun bathe.

UNDERWATER CLUES: Bubbles. Could be decomposing plant vegetation, could be a turtle, could be a gator. Back up and observe from a distance.

WARNING SIGNS: Hissing translates to “Back off!” Raised and puffed out body posture, “Active defense mode” In Florida, it is PRACTICAL to assume there is an alligator playing hide-and-seek no matter how small the water hole.

Alligators contribute layers of value to the lakes, rivers, creeks, retention ponds and mud holes of this fine community. They are the native inhabitants and THE environmental police. It is our responsibility to respect and make space for them to do their job.

With Gratitude, Bridgette & John Garuti III 941.916.2859

Sponsored by

Susan Egan

Mortgage Origination Manager NMLS 22598 239.464.7609 Sfrongillo@alliedfirst.com Photograph by Rhonda Wilkerson

Photograph by Ken Haberkorn

contents

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3

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44

4 2 digital dish Home inspiration and design online

3 aquatic activities Get ready for some summer fun with these pool-themed products

4 modern lake living Peaceful lakefront living in Southwest Florida

12 the potted plant Tips for adding potted plants to your outdoor spaces

16 pool views Classic and unique tile inspiration for your pool

18 perfect penthouse Luxury high-rise with spectacular views

26 a forgotten era A new and unique photography project from Michelle Tricca

29 patio paradise Curate your outdoor spaces to create your own personal oasis

34 contemporary take A warm and inviting take on contemporary design

42 your home marketplace Modern finds for your home with our marketplace products

44 fun poolside fare Recipes to make your pool party a sure success

48 dog days of summer Tips to keep your pet cool in the heat

YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 1

Digital Dish

YOUR HOME

WHAT'S HAPPENING ON WWW.YHMAGAZINE.COM, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND BEYOND

MAGAZINE®

P UB LI SHER

F U R NITUREP ICK

Channing Spano

PIPER CABINET

A R T D I RECTO R

Art Deco meets mid-century modern in the Piper Cabinet from Joybird. This piece is brimming with details that make it a design lover’s dream come true. From its sturdy construction to the rich gold and green color combination, who says that even the simplest storage solutions can’t make a big statement when it comes to style?

Available from joybird.com $1564.

Tarra Wood P RESI D ENT

Tony Spano CO NT RI B UT I NG WRI T ER

Oliver Nash

W I S H L I ST

balboa bed We adore rattan and its power to elevate a design while bringing in a natural material. With the Balboa bed from Serena & Lily, artisans start with a solid mahogany frame and achieve perfect texture by weaving the rattan to display beautiful variations in tone. A fun design detail of brass end caps on each leg finish this stunning bed frame.

Available in two colors from serenaandlily.com for $2,298.

FAVO RI TETREN D

BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN

These standing planters from Food52 provide an extra-special home to your leafy friends.

Originally designed in the 1960s by Midcentury pioneer Arthur Umanoff, each one has powder-coated steel legs to give your plants a lift. Around the top, you’ll find curved handwoven rattan for a nice pop of contrast.

Available at food52.com for $140-$280.

connect with us yhmagazine |

@yhmagazineinc |

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LET US FEATURE YOUR HOME PRODUCTS AND SERVICES We are always on the lookout for new and innovative products and services that our readers would enjoy knowing about for their fine homes. Give us a call at 239.235.3170 or email at info@yhmagazine.com to discuss how effective content marketing can be for your company.

Your Home Magazine® is sent to you courtesy of the real estate professional(s) that specialize in your neighborhood. If you’d like to change your mailing preferences, please email us at info@yhmagazine.com.

Your Home Magazine® is published by Your Home Magazine, Inc © Copyright 2021. All right reserved. All prices, specs, and financing rates & terms are subject to change without notice. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Advertisers in Your Home Magazine should not be considered referred or endorsed by Your Home Magazine or any other advertiser. If your home is currently listed, this is not an offer to sell your home.

aquatic activities

Sure, we can go to the beach and pool all year long here in Florida, but there is a special feeling that comes with a summer dip. A great way to get exercise, make memories, and tire the kids out, water activities are fun for everyone. Here are a few items that will enhance your splash time.

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1. Watermelon Island Float Lounge; $34.99; disckssportinggoods.com 2. Cabana Chair; $129; theinside.com 3. Snap Tote; $30; minted.com 4. Splash and Shoot Swimming Pool Basketball Hoop; $329.99; dunnriteproducts.com 5. Waterproof Picnic Blanket; $120; coolmaterial.com 6. Luxe Towel; $50; sunnylife.com 7. Inflatable Mermaid Volleyball Net; $40; sunnylife.com YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 3

MODERN LAKE

LIVING

BY OLIVER NASH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIANA TODOROVA

L

ocated in the Esplanade Lake Club, the Genova model by Seagate Development Group is a beautiful example of great design both inside and out. The home takes into consideration the needs of the Southwest Florida buyer, and showcases the trend toward warm colors, natural textures, and globally-inspired design.

A Taylor Morrison community, the Esplanade Lake Club offers resortstyle living on 778 acres along Lake Como in Fort Myers. A preferred builder,

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Seagate Development Group is a full-service residential and commercial real estate development and construction company. They bring together ingenuity and experience with the expertise and desire to deliver the highest quality product and a customer experience that exceeds industry standards.

That desire to offer their clients the best led to the creation of Theory Design.

A collaboration with Seagate Development Group, Theory Design now fills the need to lend a unique design approach to the fast-growing list of

building projects. This talented and spirited team collaborates on a multilevel approach to provide the best-designed products for their clients, and is responsible for the great design found in the Genova model.

The 6,008 square foot home features four bedrooms plus a study, four full and two half baths, and a three-car garage. The spacious home takes advantage of the water views and offers a large outdoor living area perfect for entertaining, often cooled by the lake breeze

C O N T E MP O R ARY S H INE

The home’s exterior perfectly embodies the coastal modern design that so many buyers look for when they come to Southwest Florida. The clean lines and finishes used are complemented by Bahama shutters and a flat, slate tile roof. Seagate Development Group is known for using flat tiles instead of barrel tiles, which can read Mediterranean and sometimes look dated if not used correctly. Lighting choices have been kept sleek to match the home’s architectural style.

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GRE AT INSPIR ATI O N

Inside the home, Interior Designers Adriene Ged and Cynde Thompson of Theory Design took their cues from modern world travel and global influences.

Art, rugs, and accessories are mixed with natural fabrics and organic tones to create a restful interior. This combination creates a design infusion that is on trend with global influence in interior design that has been so popular this year. A feature wall of vertical, handmade, and handapplied stained wood slats adds texture to the room. The 14-foot tall ceilings are enhanced by reverse soffits that are lit with LEDs to create more visual interest in the room. Furniture throughout the home, but especially in the great room, has been kept neutral with the selected fabrics and wood accents. Sightlines to the amazing lanai and the lake beyond were kept open through the low furniture. White oak floors with a grey wash anchor the space.

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K ITC HE N C O NNE C T I ON

At the center of the home, the kitchen continues the theme of natural colors and textures, as well as globally-inspired design.

The counters are a favorite of the design team. Finished in a leathered texture, the natural quartzite has also been applied to the window wall behind the natural gas range for a dramatic design effect. All the slabs have been mitered and book-matched so the veins are perfectly conjoined. Lower cabinets are finished in a natural, warm grey tone while upper cabinets have a dark, espresso finish with glass doors covering the lit display shelves.

Over the large island, well-sized pendant lights help to fill in the space between the ceiling and counter, as well as provide light to the prep area.

E N TE RTAI NI NG C E N T R AL

A wet bar located in the dining room functions as a drink center and a buffet for storage and serving. Plenty of glass-fronted, backlit shelves house glasses, while cabinets hide dishes and other necessities. The same book-matched quartzite used in the kitchen has been brought into the wet bar and dining room for a cohesive look. The solid wood table is an almost ebony color and is surrounded by linen-clad chairs. The frames of the chairs are slim, which helps to balance the weight of the table which can seat ten comfortably.

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O R GA N IC R E T R E AT

Large windows frame the pool and Lake Como, and a comfortable sitting area takes full advantage of the sun and view. Ged and Thompson chose darker furniture in a true ebony, finished with hammered metal hardware for a little shine. The furniture grounds the light and airy space and complements the soft grey tones used throughout. The color of the wood floors and the patterns used in the room, like the one on the area rug, reinforce the global theme. Above, a reverse soffit has been added along with a fun, multidimensional light.

SPA SPAC E

In the bathroom, subtle finishes take the stage. A relaxing space, the master bath continues global feel and takes advantage of unique textures. In addition to a beautiful grasscloth wall covering, matching tile has been applied to the walls of the room and the shower. The grooved texture is unique and adds to the beauty of the tile. A freestanding, rectangular tub is contemporary and is complemented by the low armchair with a bamboo seat and back. The vessel sink sits on top of a dark wood, floating vanity, which matches the mirror’s trim color and the Bahama shutter. A rug with a modern tribal pattern adds more texture to the room.

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UNI Q U E TO U CH ES

A mix of warm and cool tones, the tile complements the natural stone that tops the sleek and floating riffed-oak vanity. A natural, fiber wallpaper is used in the rest of the room and has a slight shimmer, bouncing light through the room. The team found the perfect art for this space which helps to tie cool and warm together. Wall mounted, black, metal fixtures and sconces, and the custom framed mirror are the perfect final touches.

OU TDO O R LIF E

A shellstone floor, similar to the one in the master bathroom, sets the stage for the rest of the finishes in the large outdoor space. A tough stone that works well indoors and out, shellstone can match a myriad of design styles. Just off the home’s indoor dining room, the outdoor dining area is placed where the large, corner pocketing glass doors open for a seamless entertaining experience. A table for eight is surrounded by woven back chairs that are outdoor-friendly for easy maintenance. Light fabrics complement the colors inside. The outdoor kitchen features a waterfall edge island with LED lighting and granite countertops. Ged and Thompson chose one tile and used it to cover the hood and wall of the outdoor kitchen, creating a sleek and clean look. A stained wood tongue and groove ceiling brings in warmth. The seating area, with sofa and four oversized chairs flanks a see-through fireplace which can also be enjoyed from the pool area. The whole space can be enclosed with automatic rolling screens to provide bug protection, making it a year-round room. A water feature, spa, and sun shelf help to make the pool feel like one found in the best of local resorts.

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For more information about this home or more like it in your area, contact the Realtor who sent you this magazine.

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T HE POTTED PLA N T NO MATTER HOW BIG OR SMALL your outdoor space is, adding plants to your patio, lanai, and pool deck is a wonderful way to incorporate more color and life. Plants encourage wellbeing, they are visually pleasing, and they can create a private outdoor oasis. If you are placing them in an uncovered or open area, they also attract birds and pollinators, so you can help your local ecosystem, while creating a beautiful home.

Unless you have small garden beds in or around your patio or lanai, the best option will be potted plants. However, that doesn’t mean your design has to be small and underwhelming.

Large pots that hold palm and fruit trees, or a variety of layered flowering plants and grasses, are available everywhere, from local garden centers to big box stores. You can use a range of pots to create beautiful clusters of plants, and they can help you design a privacy barrier if your patio is too close to neighbors or a road. While hiring professional help is always an option, there are plenty of ways to create a unique design yourself. Here are a few tips when picking pots and plants for your outdoor spaces.

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POTS AND PLANTS UNITE Once you have your central theme picked, it’s time to pick the right pot for the right plant. If a plant is too small, too big, or too vibrant for a certain planter it can take away from both the plant and the pot. When planting flowers, pick plants with blooms that will complement the pot and vice versa. Clashing colors can take away from the natural beauty of your vegetation.

Take note of the surrounding colors, either already in the garden or on nearby structures.

You can use these colors as a base, finding ways to highlight them throughout your landscape design.

To ensure your plants match the planters, you should first purchase (or at least plan for) the plants you want to use that work well in your environment. Then you should look into buying the appropriate planters, not only for your plants to flourish in, but those that will help accentuate the colors present in the foliage.

PLANTER PATTERNS

SCULPTURAL DESIGN Setting up a layout for your outdoor plants is a freeform endeavor where you can get creative, but things can look awkward if you don’t follow a few key landscape design rules. Pairing the basics with your own eye for design will help your potted plants look well-arranged and proportional. While they might not remind you of sculpture, it’s the

best way to think about potted plants as you create a collection for your outdoor spaces (or indoor as well). So, how do you think of them as sculptures? Imagine the group of potted plants as if they were all attached. Would the design still work or would it appear awkward?

Plants and planters can and should vary, overall they do need to flow into one cohesive form when arranged together.

Diversity is what keeps your landscaping interesting and the same principle should be applied to potted plants, with a foundation of consistency. Once you have chosen your theme, build from there. This could be the color or the material used to make the pots, or the colors of the plants you use. Also, pay careful attention to the way you arrange each grouping. This will help your final result feel polished and professional. Remember that items always look best when displayed in odd numbers with three, five, and seven being the numbers most commonly seen in homerelated design.

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DIVERSIFY Variation in pot size creates visual interest, so select pots of all heights and widths.

Displaying your plants at different levels also allows you to see more of the beautiful details they offer.

Planters come in a variety of sizes and you might feel a little overwhelmed by the very large planters. Oversize pots make an impactful statement to your overall landscape design (if your space allows for this size), so make sure you incorporate them into your design. Because they are so grand, you only need a few.

To create more height, stack your planters on top of bricks, stones, or any sort of platform.

This will let you control the arrangement more and lifting pots off the ground is a good idea anyway to facilitate drainage. You can also add height by adding potted plants that grow into vines, which can then attach to nearby walls or other supporting surfaces.

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SMALL SPACES If you’re working with a smaller space, smaller pots are a great way to add detail and greenery.

They can also be easier to maintain, so don’t disregard the small options. You can still use these small pots to create a cohesive look and they should still be arranged in odd numbered groupings. Often, small spaces are also shady, so make sure to choose plants that will work for the amount of light you receive. Some succulents, ferns, mint, rosemary, loropetalum, and hosta are shade loving plants. Orchids also do well on lanais as long as you have strong sun around your patio area. They love the sun, just not directly on their leaves and flowers.

Small pots can be put on risers to create height differences as well.

POTTING TIME Fill your planters so there isn’t any visable soil from a distance. You want pots that are bursting full of foliage and that might take more than one plant to obtain. You can add more than one kind of plant to each pot to create a professional, layered look. As long as they require the same amount of sun and water, diverse plant types can grow well together. Just like in a garden bed, you can layer plants in a planter, so that pops of color peek out of bright green pockets.

COHESIVE CLUSTERS If you are struggling to make a group of potted planters look good grouped together, place one large pot with the largest and most dramatic plant at the center and then add smaller plants around the outside to add variety. This will draw the eye to the focal point, but also offer a lot of beauty in the surrounding pots as well.

The easiest way to design a symmetrical look with planters is to start with two different types of plants. Then, select a third plant, which will be your focal point. Your focal plant should be your brightest and most diverse.

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pool views Y

our pool is such an important element when the summer months get hot and muggy. They are also a beautiful, and prominent, design feature. With so many unique shapes, styles, and features to choose from when building one on your property, they can be customized to fit your home’s personality and design scheme. Most pools, especially in newer homes, can be seen from all the main living areas, so it’s important to create a pool that you love to look at! The tiles you select can help you finish your vision and facilitate a relaxing outdoor space. From traditional to modern, dark and light, tropical or urban, there are tiles available that will fit all budgets and designs. For more information on the tiles listed, visit aquablumosaics.com

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Codova

$94.35 PER BOX

Crystal Blue

$229.92 PER BOX

Albi

$526.40 PER BOX

Cobalt With Terra Mosaic $12.51 PER SHEET

Fiorella

$64.56 PER BOX

Bohol Lake

$398 PER BOX

Aqua Jade

$398 PER BOX

Sapphire

$204.50 PER BOX

Martia

$64.56 PER BOX

YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 17

PERFECT PENTHOUSE

BY CHANNING SPANO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCOS GUEVARA PHOTOGRAPHY

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hen selling a home, it can be hard for buyers to look past outdated design, cluttered living spaces, and colors that are too bold or personalized. You wouldn’t guess by looking at this newly renovated penthouse, but the condo’s original layout and design made it almost impossible for prospective buyers to see themselves living in the home. The pre-renovation property sat on the market over four years and presented a challenge to Realtor® Jolanta Johnson. “I brought buyer after buyer and while they loved the amazing views, the indoor spaces caused people to move on to other options,” says Johnson. “They just couldn’t see the vision, although I knew this place would be incredible with a little work.” Finally, Johnson was able to convince a buyer that this condo could be a great property and promised to work with him as he took on the renovation. “We started the bidding process and the project took off from there,” says Johnson. Removing walls, relighting the entire residence, and selecting fixtures and colors that enhanced the amazing views, provided a new and unique touch to create this transitional beauty.

The end result is an open, bright penthouse with water views, conveniently located one block from the beach and one block from Las Olas Boulevard. “I love Jackson Towers,” says Johnson.

“I lived here, I’ve sold 50 units in this building, and I’ve been able to develop a relationship with most of the residents here. It’s so

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easy for me to recommend this building—if you truly believe in a property, buyers will sense that.”

Jackson Tower is dog-friendly and features full-service, resort amenities like valet parking and private elevators. The building is known for expansive terraces, quality finishes, and views of the ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and downtown Fort Lauderdale. A public marina is adjacent to the building for easy boat storage and a water taxi stop is located just across the street.

G R E AT C HANG ES The original layout was divided into two living spaces with a very large media room and a much smaller living room. Johnson and her buyer knew that taking down the wall would give them space to create a functional living area, a great dining room, expand the small kitchen, and create a functional home office space. Doing this would also allow the amazing view to be the focal point.

Johnson explains, “When you step off the private elevator, the first thing you see is the sky and water through the floor-to-ceiling windows. When you have something like a water view, there’s no need to block off the kitchen, or create a separate living space.

Everyone should have the opportunity to see the views and natural light should flow through the home.” The new great room features a cream colored sectional and light woods, accented by art that pulls the colors of the water views into the home.

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WOR K F ROM HOME

DINING DEL IGHT

Once the layout was opened, a more proportional home office was added. “This is such an important room to have in today’s work-from-home environment,” says Johnson. Just off the great room, opaque glass doors from Aventura Sliding open to reveal a light and airy office with mixed metal accents and neutral finishes.

A wall of storage provides plenty of space for work supplies or other essentials one might want to hide away. According to Johnson, “The view from the desk is perfect. You can see the Atlantic and you get a beautiful view of the coastline at night with all of the other high-rise buildings lit up. It really is a special unit.”

The dining room has been placed just off the kitchen for easy entertaining. Since it also flows into the great room, cream was chosen for the upholstery, while the espresso-colored table and chair frames add the right amount of weight to the room.

Overhead, a unique light fixture incorporates organic shapes.

Abstract art adds visual interest without overpowering the space.

Large format, 48-inch porcelain tiles are used throughout the main living areas of the home.

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MODE R N CU I S I NE It’s hard to picture the unit’s old kitchen when you step into the current, and vastly improved, version.

“I’m not sure why the original layout gave so little space to the kitchen, but it was something I knew we had to fix. The kitchen is the heart of the home and it was one of the biggest drawbacks to the unit originally,” says Johnson. “Now, besides the view, it’s the top feature!” UltraCraft cabinets are found throughout the kitchen, with lower cabinets given a textured, Silver Elm finish and upper cabinets painted in Wings for a subtle contrast. Pompeii Argento quartz countertops offer durable prep space. The theme of chrome is enhanced through the barstools, sleek pendant lights, and the draw pulls. The kitchen is finished in top-of-the-line Thermador appliances.

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M AST ERFUL VIEWS Featuring wrap around windows, the master bedroom offers sunlit water and skyline views. Slightly more modern than the rest of the design, the décor has been kept minimal and monochromatic, allowing the colors outside to take center stage. An upholstered half-wall creates a headboard, and a small hallway leading to the master bath and closet.

AQUAT IC AREAS The original bath sported a built-in tub, surrounded by wood and granite, completed with outdated, faux-finished walls. Johnson was able to help her client create a spa-like environment by reworking the bathroom and adding soft greys, crisp whites, and shine through chrome accents. The new and elegant tub is backed by a wall of large tile that helps to reflect light into the space. A floating, UltraCraft vanity in Repose Grey is underlit to create depth and topped with Pompeii Argento quartz. LED backed mirrors offer a unique and custom touch.

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OU TD O OR LIVI NG “Jackson Tower is known for the terrace space each unit offers and it’s one of the reasons so many people want to live in this building,” Johnson explains. The penthouse terrace wraps around the unit and provides 1,200 square feet of private outdoor space. The water and city setting creates a beautiful view day or night. All of the living spaces and the master bedroom open on to the terrace, offering plenty of areas for seating and outdoor dining.

For more information on preparing your home for sale, contact the Realtor® that sent you this magazine.

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For more information about this home or more like it in your area, contact the Realtor who sent you this magazine.

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A Forgotten Era C E LE B R ATI N G 5 0 0 YEARS OF COWBOYS IN FLORIDA

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ow more than ever, art and culture are an essential aspect of the human experience. Artists see beyond what things are to how they could be. In South Florida’s abundance of bland, homogenized commercial spaces and walls, Michelle Tricca sees visual and artistic opportunity. As a portrait photographer and sentimentalist, her work is motivated by the human condition. Her medium, a universal language transcending cultural barriers, has a social responsibility of making connections, altering perceptions, and eliciting emotion. She values the compelling nature of photographs displayed larger than life.

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FLORIDA COWBOYS American Cowboys are iconic, globally recognized, and idealized. As symbols of freedom and rugged independence, they fascinate everyone regardless of culture or background. Defying the misnomer of ranching originating out West, cattle and cowboy culture began when Juan Ponce de Leon brought cows to Florida in 1521. Long before Florida was granted statehood, this was the country’s original home of the cowboys, and 2021 marks the 500th anniversary of Florida’s establishment as America’s first cowboy state.

To the newer generation of Floridians, this culture is unfamiliar and overlooked. In 2020, Tricca expertly captured the raw experience of cowboy life at Half Circle L Ranch in Immokalee, Florida. Her fusion of documentary, editorial, and fine art photography offers a poetic depiction of working days on a Southwest Florida cow-calf ranch. The work is revealing, thoughtprovoking and authentic. Scenes of open skies, horsemanship, wrangling, branding, camaraderie, and striking portraits offer compelling insight into this under-recognized life between Florida’s beaches.

But that is not the only under-recognized life Tricca saw play out in the middle of the state. Her work has led her to see the plight of the migrant farmworker community, especially in Immokalee, Florida. She began to conceptualize a plan that would bring art to the community and awareness to the people who

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benefit from their agricultural labors. After spending so much time in this unique community, she decided to compile a collection of photos showcasing the unique and historic Florida cowboy and use the proceeds to fund an art project, The Face of Immokalee.

Her work acknowledges and pays homage to this centuries-old lifestyle still thriving in Florida. The photographs in her project, Florida Cowboy, are a visual eulogy of a steadfast yet vanishing world. The thoughtful and visually enticing work has been curated into a collection of artistically presented photographs, suitable for both coffee tables and walls. Tricca has created a limited edition, fine art book that showcases her beautiful photo collection while giving back to a good cause. The custom-crafted book features a full-grain leather cover, reminiscent of a horse’s saddle, and has been given a branded title. Each page portrays a rare and evocative view of this Florida subculture. Florida Cowboys is available for purchase along with Fine Art Prints through photographsforphilanthropy.com. 100% of proceeds from Florida Cowboys book sales will be kept in the community, helping to fund Tricca’s Face of Immokalee project.

THE FACE OF IMMOKALEE This project celebrates the soul of Immokalee through a series of expressive portraits. This collaborative public art mural is an effort to honor, humanize, and put a face to these people of abundant personality, story, and soul. Residents are humble, doing what they have to do to survive. Their work in agriculture impacts a large percentage of the country’s produce industry. Their children are witness to their long hard days in the field, and at the same time, many aiming for a future of education and prosperity. In this boldly displayed mural, they’re the stars of the show, deserving to be seen and celebrated. Portraits will be exhibited on semi-trucks, building

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walls, and the town park. Tricca saw these blank building walls as a canvas and opportunity to champion the community. Public art murals are a great means of infusing art into unsuspecting places. They inspire social and economic revitalization, celebrate humanity, and are a source of civic pride.

What makes The Face Of Immokalee anomalous is that the semi-truck portion of the mural will be mobile, providing accessibility throughout other local communities. Thanks to a partnership with Lipman Produce, their traveling trucks will be an awesome opportunity to bridge the vastly juxtaposed regions thru art!

FUNDING The mural will be installed once significant funding is secured. Tricca is an advocate for public art because of its accessibility to all. She doesn’t believe a high-dollar ticket should be the only means by which someone can enjoy art. Acquisition of funding for The Face Of Immokalee is being sought through grants, proceeds from the Florida Cowboys work, and private contributions, which are tax-deductible via fiscal sponsorship thru ASMP FOUNDATION.

It takes a village The Face Of Immokalee is enabling all collaborators to be part of the bigger picture. Tricca finds value in pooling resources to see a project thru to fruition. As the producer and photographer, she feels she’s just the conduit. Other essential roles are the Immokalee residents, the building owners providing the “canvas,” the Immokalee CRA for their support, the industrial print and install company, and the patrons. To learn more about the project, visit michelletricca.com, photographsforphilanthropy.com, or go to asmp.org and search for “The Face Of Immokalee”.

Patio Paradise

INDOOR/OUTDOOR

living is a Florida staple. People often design their homes around a seamless transition between these two spaces, so it’s no surprise that most people spend a large amount of time and care choosing the right outdoor furniture.

Not only should your patio be comfortable, it should also be a well-designed space. That means outdoor living trends are just as important as the indoor ones. If you are wanting to refresh your lanai, or searching for inspiration for a new patio space, we’ve got you covered.

Here is everything you need to know about this year’s trends.

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YEAR-ROUND USE

With so much of our time spent outside these days, it’s important to create outdoor spaces you can enjoy all year long. For the Florida lanai, that means creating a space that’s cool and bug-free, so you can use your lanai even in the hotter months. Place main seating areas in the shade of your covered areas and add umbrellas to seating groups not covered by a roof. Fans are helpful, so make sure you have one that’s large enough to give you adequate airflow.

Not just for theme parks anymore, a home misting system sends a quick blast of cooling air and water that can help you keep your lanai comfortable. If you don’t have a traditional pool cage, roll down screens can be added to provide shade from direct sun and insect control during the height of summer.

LUSH LANDSCAPING

From the smallest city patios to the biggest estate lanias, you can incorporate nature into your outdoor space. Don’t hesitate to add greenery and vegetation to your pool deck, lanai, or balcony. In fact, we have a great article about patio plants on page 12.

This trend falls in line with Cottagecore, a motif that is very popular this year, along with a renewed interest in natural and sustainable living. Creating a beautiful outdoor living space also enhances your indoor one. In most Florida homes, the lanai is a featured or visible space, so an emphasis on a beautiful lanai means beautiful views from inside the home as well.

Along with this green trend, people are more interested in adding native plants to their living spaces. Not only are they easier to keep up, they fit so well with the look of your home’s setting, so they add an extra special touch.

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LIGHT IT UP

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down, so thoughtfully lighting outdoor spaces is a trend that is here to stay. From hurricane lanterns around your pool, uplighting focused on your favorite plants, or a decorative statement fixture, an outdoor lighting upgrade will open new possibilities for living and entertaining. Design your outdoor lighting with “task” and “accent” lighting in mind.

The first is used for a specific purpose, like lighting a seating area, while the latter draws attention to things like architectural features. A mix of dark areas and well lit highlights will help you achieve a professional look. Opt for lower-watt bulbs with a golden tone and for a polished result, consider hiding the light sources.

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“HERBAN” GARDEN

Last summer, many people experienced the joys of gardening and trend spotters are predicting that will continue this year and beyond. Edible gardens also make the perfect science project for parents who have suddenly found themselves homeschooling their children. You can do so much in your backyard or patio.

From a beautiful herb garden to hydroponic growing stacks, you can grow a surprising amount of attractive veggies. The vibrant red of a tomato, the soft greens of lettuce, the beautiful smell of herbs, and the satisfaction of knowing where some of your food comes from makes this a trend that isn’t hard to fall in love with.

SOCIAL TIME

The front porch has made a comeback. Historically, the front porch played a large role in the social life of neighborhoods and communities by providing semi-public areas for people to gather. People would congregate, away from hot interiors, and socialize while they worked at light tasks, played music, or read. As time went on, the lanai or back patio became the focus and people spent more time and money creating private spaces for just their families. But now, with the need to find creative ways to connect, the front porch is having a renaissance.

Comfortable seating, a table, some potted plants—now you have a great space that allows you to host your family, friends, and neighbors in a unique and nostalgic way.

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MONOCHROMATIC MOTIF

Perfectly photographable and peaceful, monochromatic tones, especially neutrals and whites, are on trend. Gardens and lanais with a focus on white furniture, décor, and flowering plants offer a modern and design-forward vision. While white is seen most often, the key idea behind this look is a focus on a single color theme, making this very customizable if you prefer to style your lanai with color.

This focus on one tone works for a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional. To complete the look, accent with natural, light wood tones.

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Contemporary Take

BY CHANNING SPANO | IMAGES BY BRANTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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ometimes, a project sets the tone for future work, propelling a company into the spotlight or defining a level of excellence moving forward.

For the team at Marc-Michaels and their builder partner, this home is one of those defining projects. Originally built as a spec home, this contemporary structure with Mid-century modern influences became a hallmark for the builder as well as MarcMichaels Interior Design.

As Chief Creative Officer Jeff Strasser explains, “It was a pivotal moment for both companies, especially aesthetically. The builder on the project was able to really solidify himself as a high-end contender and we were able to showcase how well we do contemporary design.”

Strasser was also thrilled with how well-received the project was in the neighborhood itself. “The home offered a new perspective for the neighborhood and it was a wonderful addition to the street itself, so the community was very supportive.

We love it when the community, or the neighborhood, is excited about a home we’re working on.”

As modern and contemporary homes grow in popularity, Strasser thinks it’s important to note the differences between

the two styles. “I feel that people shy away from a contemporary home because they confuse it with the sleek, stark, and sometimes cold feel of modern design,” he explains. “You can create a contemporary space filled with warmth and color.

Contemporary can be very livable and I think this home in particular showcases this livability.”

Creating a space in which people could envision themselves was important, especially for a spec home. Strasser explains, “We really wanted to present new, clean, and contemporary details while providing a different aesthetic. This home is filled with floor-to-ceiling windows, so warm light can be found in every room. We wanted to continue that warmth through natural textures and a mixture of furnishings.”

Strasser and the team at Marc-Michaels chose pieces with clean lines and then selected antique elements to add dimension to the design of the home.

Another way they created a contemporary home was through ceiling details. “I love when the same material is used inside and out,” says Strasser. “It helps to reinforce that seamless indoor/outdoor flow so many people want, especially in South Florida, and it’s a really contemporary touch.” Ceilings

FIRST IMPRESSION The home’s exterior is a study in sleek lines and mixed materials. Symmetry and natural materials create a wonderful, contemporary mix. Warm wood tones pop against the white finish, while large glass windows add visual interest and a dark contrast color.

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NATURAL SPACE In the great room, a unique seating area allows guests to mingle, or family and friends to have a comfortable movie night. A chaise lounge sits between the large sectional and a second set of seats. The floating, walnut TV wall adds a visual focal point, while warming the space. Layered textures create depth and interest. Above, a custom drum chandelier combines a shade surrounded by a textured band. In keeping with contemporary design, the ceiling details have been continued out on the lanai for a seamless look.

also played an important role in delineating the rooms in this expansive home. “Everyone loves an open floor plan, but the challenge is to create separate spaces in these large, open rooms,” Strasser explains. The use of different materials, ceiling heights, or a change in pattern helped create visual separation, while not hindering the home’s organic flow.”

In every project, there is a challenge and for Strasser, the thing he loved about the home also became the biggest obstacle—the windows. Not only are they large, but the home’s beautiful architecture featured corner windows, and also meant that some windows were not centered. “The large windows and the corner windows look amazing, but they can be hard to cover!” says Strasser. “For both privacy, sleeping, and sun protection, we

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knew we couldn’t leave them wide open, so we had to get creative and also realize it was okay to have window coverings that weren’t symmetrical once open. As you walk through the home you can see that some drapes are stacked to one side of the window or that more fabric can be found on the left or right. Though it’s not ‘even’, it matches the proportions of the window and works with the architecture.”

The final result was a contemporary home with a warm and livable interior. “This project became one of my favorites,” says Strasser. “The functionality combined with the aesthetic and the architecture really inspired me and my team. I wanted to replicate this in my own home once we were done!”

HEART OF THE HOME The kitchen flows from the great room. It also offers additional living space through a unique indoor/outdoor room which can be closed off, to either the home or the outside, to create an extra air-conditioned living room or outdoor entertaining area. A mix of painted and wood cabinets stained in a satin finish provide plenty of storage. A painted glass backsplash offers a clean infusion of color to the light and bright space. The island is topped with waterfall-edge, quartz counters and decked with dark, solid wood stools. Open, floating shelves offer storage while not blocking the natural light from the large kitchen window. A walnut floor stained in a Teak color anchors the main living spaces.

NEXT STEPS This comfortable seating area features a beautiful view of the pool and canal beyond. Offering ocean access, the home’s location on the water influenced the design inside.

The arrangement of four chairs facilitates conversation to flow and makes entertaining easy. Most of the fabric in the home has been kept neutral with pillows adding a punch of color on soft surfaces.

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CORNER OFFICE The home’s architecture is expertly showcased in the home’s office. A corner glass entryway leads to a space filled with modern color and a continuation of wood tones. On the wall, applied molding has been placed over a wall covering in slate blue. The pattern of the wood follows the pattern of the accent in the ceiling, creating continuity.

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DELICIOUS DESIGN The dining room is separated from the foyer by a row of columns that disappear into the ceiling, a unique visual touch.

A cluster of lights is hung over a dark walnut-colored table surrounded by leather-clad chairs. Since the wood ceiling from the great room runs into the dining, a panel was added to help designate the dining area from the great room.

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LIGHT AND AIRY The focal point of the master bedroom is a Teak-colored, wood-panel wall with a padded accent. Faux leather and nailhead details create a cozy bed frame topped with soft linens. Color was added to the room through the bedding and the drapes, drawing inspiration from the water outside.

Floor-to-ceiling windows bring light, and the beautiful view, into the room.

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BRIGHT AND BLISS

OUTDOOR CONNECTION

The master bathroom is a large space that provides plenty of room to start or end the day in comfort and style. The focal point is the freestanding tub set on a platform of Teak-colored wood that is continued up the wall for a cohesive and dramatic effect. Thick cut Quartzite tops sleek vanities and the makeup area is flanked by two high-gloss, bamboo-wood cabinets.

At the far end, glass closets offer storage while also becoming a beautiful extension of the room.

The outdoor living area and pool are unique spaces that flow naturally from the main rooms inside. The pool is particularly special. The clean lines are enhanced by the submerged spa and the sun deck with crisp, white lounge chairs on top of Teak platforms. The pool is bordered with black pebbles and minimal landscaping that help enhance the architectural details of the home.

For more information about this home or more like it in your area, contact the Realtor who sent you this magazine.

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YOUR HOME MARKETPLACE

modern mix Featuring a mix of modern textures and rustic elements, this issue’s Marketplace offers a range of items perfect for your home. From storage to accessories, there is something for every room and all design styles.

To learn more about this collection, visit yourhomemarketplace.com or scan the QR code.

IRON FRAME FOLDING CHAIR $385.94

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NESTING RUSTIC STORAGE & ACCENT CRATES $59.95

4 STEP RUSTIC WOOD LADDER SHELF $199.66

BLACK METAL LED DESK LAMP $268.26

TOWEL RING $48

SWING ROPE FLOATING SHELF $49.95

FOLDABLE COTTON BASKET $20.99

TEXTURED FABRIC AND BRUSHED STEEL ACCENT CHAIR $852.94 BOKK STOOL $410 YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 43

fun poolside fare caprese toast 4 slices sourdough or rustic bread of your choice

8 slices of tomato (from about 2 large tomatoes)

2 tbsp. olive oil

salt and pepper, to taste

2 whole cloves garlic, peeled and ends trimmed

2 oz. fresh basil (leaves can be left whole, torn, or sliced thinly)

8 oz. whole-milk mozzarella, sliced thinly

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Prepare a baking sheet with foil, and turn your oven on to broil. Place the bread onto the baking sheet, and brush each with a little olive oil; broil for 3 minutes or just until golden-brown.

Remove from oven and rub each toast all over with about half a clove of garlic. Then top each slice of bread with two slices of mozzarella, and place back under the broiler for 2 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and remove from oven.

To finish, top with about 2-3 tomato slices, a few of pinches of salt and pepper, and a sprinkle fresh basil leaves. Serve and enjoy!

summer greek salad For the salad:

For the dressing:

3 tomatoes, chopped

3 tbsp. red wine vinegar

1 cucumber, diced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 small red onion, diced

2 tsp. dried basil or oregano

1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/2 tsp. salt, plus more to taste

1 15 oz. can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

sesame seeds and parsley for garnish (optional)

Prepare the vegetables and combine all salad ingredients in a medium serving bowl. Whisk the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.

Pour vinaigrette over vegetable/bean mixture and toss to combine. Garnish with sesame seeds and parsley if desired.

Enjoy at room temperature or chilled.

Store, in a sealed container in the fridge for several days. Also, great served with chips or crackers!

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barbecue chicken meatballs 2 lb ground chicken

1/2 tsp. onion powder

11/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

1 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 cup flour (or alternative flour if gluten-free)

1/4 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for coating)

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1 tbsp. olive oil

Preheat oven to 425°F. Add the ground chicken, apple cider vinegar, spices, flour, salt, and barbecue sauce to a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix all of the ingredients together until well-combined.

Next, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon measuring spoon to scoop the ground chicken mixture.

Then, use your hands to roll the mixture into meatballs. Place the meatballs on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the meatballs. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until fully cooked through.

When the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle more barbecue sauce over them and then toss until coated in the sauce.

Once the meatballs are sauced to your liking, transfer them a serving dish. Serve with extra barbecue sauce for dipping and enjoy!

watermelon lemonade 4 cups watermelon, chopped

11/2 cups lemon juice

1/2 cup sugar

6 cups cold water

Blend together chopped watermelon and lemon juice in blender until very smooth. Pour into a large pitcher. Add sugar and cold water and stir well. Pour over ice and enjoy!

cilantro lime slaw 2 cups coleslaw mix or shredded green cabbage 2 cups shredded purple cabbage

1/4–1/2 cup chopped cilantro 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice 1–2 tsp. honey (optional)

1/4 tsp. salt (more or less, to taste) 1/4 tsp. pepper (more or less, to taste)

In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix (or green cabbage), purple cabbage, 1/4 cup cilantro, lime juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.

Stir to combine well. (The slaw may still look a bit dry. Don’t add more liquid yet!) Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes on the counter or in the refrigerator. (The cabbage will soften, and the mixture will get “juicier”) Stir again and taste. Add additional cilantro, salt, pepper, honey, or lime juice to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 days. (Slaw will continue to soften in the refrigerator.)

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Dog Days of Summer

S

ummer can be hard on pets, especially dogs. The heat and humidity can cause serious issues for your furry friends, so now is the time to shorten outdoor activities or, if your dog loves the water, move your playtimes to an aquatic location. Even a kiddie pool in the backyard will help your pet stay cool and well-exercised. Long walks and dog park visits will need to be shortened or moved to a cooler time of day.

Make sure you know the signs of overheating. Excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or collapse are all signs your dog is overheated. Other symptoms include seizures, diarrhea and vomiting along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees.

Remember that dogs with f latter faces, like pugs, are more susceptible to heat stroke. These breeds, along with pets that are elderly, overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

A fun way to help your dog stay comfortable is a healthy and cooling treat. Check out these easy and delicious recipes to the right.

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Chunky Monkey

• 16 oz. plain yogurt • 1 ripe bananas • 1/3 cup of homemade or natural peanut butter (look for brands with just peanuts or peanuts and salt) Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.

Once all of the ingredients are blended, pour the mixture into desired containers for freezing. You can find fun paw and bone shaped ice cube trays at chewy.com.

Place in the freezer for at least a few hours to harden before serving.

Watermelon Sherbert • 11/2 cups frozen watermelon • 1/4 cup yogurt plain yogurt

Dice watermelon, removing the seeds and set in freezer for at least 4 hours to fully freeze.

Place frozen melon in the food processor and add the yogurt.

Blitz in food processor, adding more fruit or yogurt to adjust flavor and texture. Serve immediately.

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Photograph by Dan Schmidt

Photograph by Bridgette Garuti

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Photograph by Dan Schmidt

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