Your Home Magazine|Nov/Dec 2022|Stan Whitcomb

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My name is Stan Whitcomb and I am 3rd generation in real estate sales, building, and development.

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FINDING PARADISE

EARTHTONES IMPRESS IN THIS MODERN MASTERPIECE

BY ANDREA G. ROLLIN Photos By Diana Todorova Photography

Nestled in the luxurious enclave of Isola Bella (Italian for “beautiful island”) in the community of Talis Park, this home showcases the exceptional work Theory Design offers to the South West Florida community. Located in the exclusive 4.5-acre sector of 17 single-family homes by Seagate Development Group, the Monterey II model home is situated adjacent to Talis Park’s Great Lawn and Vyne House, and boasts spectacular water and golf course views. The 4,577 square foot home is as versatile as it is elegant with four bedrooms, four full and three half baths, and a three-car garage.

The estate was originally slated to be a model home, but the homeowners bought it at an early phase of construction, and trusted Ruta Menaghlazi, Vice President of Design at Theory Design, a Seagate Development Group company in Estero, to personalize it to their liking. “We were brought in from day one by the owners to make the residence more comfortable when entertaining,” explains Menaghlazi. “They liked neutral earth-tones, so that was a driving force as we chose the palette.” The home lends itself to a more modern feel with a bit of industrial flair to it. Two of the more challenging aspects of the design process, Menaghlazi points out, was the fact that the home is located in a neighborhood with a lot of new construction, so the traffic was congested and, thanks to supply chain issues with the cabinetry, furniture, and lighting, her team had to work with tight deadlines. Even so, they stayed on schedule. While Menaghlazi loves the entire project, the main living area is special to her. “The open plan is always my favorite. I’m a big fan of the soffit and cove ceilings, and LED strip lighting.”

WELCOME SIGHT

The main entry to the home previews the richness to come and highlights the earth-tones the owners favor. A black iron staircase, with natural, white wood steps, is built atop a white plank wood oak floor. An eye-catching lighting fixture by Hudson Valley illuminates the room with a subtle glow. The striking ebony iron and glass door welcomes all into the entry of the home, then into a piano area, which leads into the main living area. A bohemian throw rug from World Market adds an organic texture that lends a more relaxed feel to the space.

REVIVING RETREAT

Open and cozy, the great room is part of the same space as the dining area and kitchen. It overlooks the lush outdoor living area with the golf course in full view. A contemporary ceiling fan, by Minka Aire, again demonstrates the modern feel of the home. The comfy, cushioned sofas and matching chairs by Vanguard flank the center tables, composed of iron with a bluestone top, by Four Hands. An attractive ebony media cabinet under the TV by Restoration Hardware is set against the textured wallcoverings. Completing the look is a large Surya throw rug and grass cloth walls (made with natural fibers) and the framed transom windows. Stunning lamps were created by Arteriors.

MEALS THAT MEASURE UP

What better place to serve delicious meals and snacks than in this spacious gourmet kitchen? Striking pendant lighting above the island by Hudson Valley is complemented by the natural tones of the kitchen. Ebony cabinets and Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer adding flair to the far wall while white oak cabinets sit next to the refrigerator and provide an appealing contrast. An electric Wolf cooktop brings ease to meal preparation, while the floating white oak wood shelves above the cooktop surface on the back wall blend beautifully with the cabinets. The kitchen island is topped with quartzite honed into a three-inch, built-up edge. Sleek iron counter stools were manufactured by Arteriors. Natural white oak flooring gives the kitchen a bright feel.

SERVING WITH STYLE

The all-inclusive wet bar with built-in under-counter refrigerator and ice maker is perfect for entertaining friends and family. All of the bar glasses on the second shelf belonged to the owners and it was important to them to incorporate their collection into this space. On the top shelf sits a wrought iron candelabra and two wooden antique Foo dogs. Part of the main living area, the bar is designed with a quartz countertop and backsplash, painted wood cabinets in an ebony finish, and plenty of accouterments for mixing drinks and indulging in a glass of vintage wine. An extra-wide window above the bar area presents a lovely view of the landscaping beyond.

AN APPETITE FOR PERFECTION

As dining areas go, this one is both accommodating and elegant. It carries in the earth-tone shades so prevalent throughout the home and features an ebony table by Theodore Alexander with surrounding, upholstered chenille fabric chairs by Four Hands. With the owners’ desire for comfortable entertaining in mind, the designer made a special effort to connect the table, with its setting for eight, to the bar behind it. Refreshing greens decorate the middle of the table and the place settings and add a dash of color to the room.

CLEAN LINES

Contrast is the order of the day here and amplifies the master bath’s charm. The well designed space features an oversized shower with both a rain head shower head and a handheld shower head. For convenience, a floating shower seat offers an inviting resting place. The freestanding tub, a modern take on an old-fashioned standard, is equipped with a wall-mounted tub filler. The custom-made vanity has a pebble dark taupe finish on the wood, and marble countertops (the same marble found in the shower). Vanity drawers are stained a dark wood with the same pebble finish. The unique, teardrop-shaped pendant lights above the ebony vanity are by Sonneman. Carrying the theme of great design further, Menaghlazi and her team clad the walls and floor in natural limestone. The unique artwork above the tub is a vintage Japanese print.

SWEET DREAMS

The tone of the master bedroom is one of comfort and peacefulness thanks to neutral colors that bestow a sense of calm. A Century Furniture king-size bed sits regally in the center of the room, flanked by Currey & Company ebony wood nightstands embellished with a brass finish. The comely, understated wool throw rug is from Surya; unique lighting above the nightstands was designed by Modern Forms and provides ample reading light during nighttime hours. Black and white, custom-framed abstract artwork on the wall introduces a dramatic element to the room and a sharp contrast to the muted hues of the bed covers, pillows, chairs and curtains. Large, expansive windows welcome the morning sun and reveal the vistas that the upscale community offers.

DUSK AND BEYOND

When the sun goes down, this Monterey II home abounds with activity. Nighttime is the right time for hosting large parties or small gatherings in the outdoor living area that overlooks the family pool. Cool breezes from the Gulf amplify the breezes from the contemporary Minka Aire ceiling fan, while guests relax and mingle in front of the linear gas fireplace on a Restoration Hardware sofa. An outdoor kitchen, with grill and undercounter refrigerator, stands ready for the preparation of snacks, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks. The cypress tongue-in-groove ceiling detail is decorative and rustic at the same time. The dining table and chairs, also by Restoration Hardware, seats eight while a CabanaCoast end table offers a place to put glasses before jumping in the pool

TRANQUILITY PLUS

“The lighting makes the whole house come alive at night,” says Menaghlazi of the pool area. A glass safety railing encloses the pool without disrupting the beauty and a separate spa and hot tub provide hours of enjoyment. From the outdoor space, the glorious second-floor balcony is in full view. All of the outdoor furniture, including the chaise lounges by the pool, are by Restoration Hardware. Landscaping and planters were strategically placed between the homes on either side to create a sense of seclusion. “We also have a water wall and water features in place for privacy,” Menaghlazi explains. Tranquility is entrancingly created at dusk, much to the delight of the owners and those lucky enough to share it with them.

Welcome All

Creating a Cozy Guest Space

As we enter a busy time of year, we are all looking for ways to make our lives a little easier. This is the season of entertaining and hosting so chances are you will have a guest or two come through your doors this Holiday season. One way to make your life a little less hectic, and to make their stay all the more enjoyable, is to set up your guest room so they feel comfortable and have everything they need right at their fingertips.

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First, make sure the surfaces are clean and any clutter or breakable items are removed from the tops of dressers or nightstands. If your room doubles as a home office, clear the desk space and put away pens, papers, and all the other items that accumulate in this space. Consider turning off the computer and printer so there are no bright surprises at 4am and for your own privacy. Dust the lamps, clean the shelves, and vacuum and/or mop the floors. Put down carpet deodorizer or spray with fabric refresher to help keep the room smelling fresh. Use this time as a chance to also make sure lights, fans, and switches work, and replace any burnt out bulbs.

Percale

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Now that the room is clean and clutter free, it’s time to focus on the bedding. Make sure you have clean, matching sheets, and a comforter or duvet that works for the climate you’re in this Holiday season. You will also want to provide an extra blanket or two. Everyone’s body is a little different and some people get very cold at night even in warmer locations! Take a look at the pillows and make sure they aren’t old and worn out. You don’t want friends and family having neck and back issues from sleeping in your home. Replace bunching or flat pillows before they arrive and consider offering a couple of different thickness options.

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Waffle Towels

Next, clear out some space in the guest room closet and dresser. You don’t have to move everything you’re storing in these locations but it’s nice to provide your guests with a few free hangers and a drawer or two. People will especially appreciate this if they have any events on the more formal side - they will need a place to hang suits and dresses. And speaking of clothing, giving your guests a way to iron or steam their outfits is thoughtful and will make your holiday photos that much better with everyone looking neat and tidy.

Lytton

$29 - $156 | Parachutehome.com Hayes Faux Mohair Throw $79 | Potterybarn.com

Make sure the guest bathroom is well stocked with toiletries and towels. Add plenty of toilet paper and hand towels available as well. While your guests will probably arrive with their own soaps for both body and hair, having some options on hand means they don’t have to track you down if they forget something at home. Give your guests a place to put used towels to dry or a hamper so they can bring them to the laundry room if they are staying for an extended amount of time. You can also consider offer ing things like cotton swabs, Qtips, disposable razors, and tweezers.

Ivory, Gray And Mustard Arch Tufted Bath Mat $24.99 | worldmarket.com

Finally, if you have the room, add a minifridge to the guest room or set up a small coffee area so guests can start their morning without interrupting yours. Fill the refrigerator with water both for drinking and for tea and coffee, any creamers they might enjoy, and a healthy snack or two like fruit and granola bars. Put out an assortment of teas and coffees and make sure that you are stocked up on filters for the cof fee maker as well. Consider offering a basket of goodies as well so that guests can snack in their rooms if they feel a little hungry late at night.

Artistic Vision

By Kitt Walsh

Photography by: Karina Kleeberg

Word-of-mouth is how Karen Press, owner and founder of Panache Designs, acquires her clients these days. Having created stunning interior design in the Boca Raton area since 2013 and with her projects appearing in many publications, her reputation as a visionary designer now precedes her.

For this project, a previous client recommended her to the young couple who appeared at her luxury boutique design firm with a set of specs provided by Toll Brothers, builder of their new home. They had come down from New York, small children in tow, and were now the owners of what Press calls “a plain vanilla box.”

Press didn’t mind the blank slate, it gave her a canvas to take the owners’ preferences and filter them through her encyclopedic knowledge of design to create the perfect home for the family.

The wife was all about glamor and sophistication. The husband’s main interest was for his bar room, a modern take on the man cave, which would contain his pool table, where he could hang out with his friends and watch the games. Avid entertainers, the couple also needed a great dining space for dinner parties.

Fulfilling the couple’s wish list presented some challenges to Press. The ceilings, 23-feet-high in some rooms, made the space seem cold and cavernous. So, Karen plied a few tricks of the trade, such as using pendants, hanging chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling window treatments to “bring down the viewer’s eye.” She accommodated the couple’s favorite color palette, black, white, and gray, and introduced the requested glamor through textures and finishes, ensuring everything was top-of-the-line and luxurious.

“Once I had talked to the clients and come up with the vision for the home, I literally searched the world to gather the elements,” says Press of her artistic vision. “I wanted everything to be unique and nothing anyone could replicate from a store. Most of the pieces chosen are custom and many designed by me.”

She continued, “I was very appreciative that the clients allowed me to think outside the box, make use of my creativity, and to express myself artistically. The couple loved what I chose and together we created this entire project, which turned out to be very special and quite dazzling. It definitely creates the ‘wow’ factor we were aiming for. From their first step into the home, visitors catch their breath, not knowing where to look first in this jewel box of a home.”

DESIGN TO SCALE

The Ilfari Sexy Crystals chandelier, reflected off the porcelain Calacatta tile floor, sets a showstopping theme and creates an intimate welcoming feel to the soaring ceilings of the home’s foyer. The glass topped, chrome and black marble console table was designed by Press and handmade by artisans for the Arditi Collection® for Arditi Design. A spectacular statement piece, the palatial, Christopher Guy Altin chair is painstakingly handcarved from solid, certified mahogany and features a straight back in the form of a ‘twig grid’. It’s finished with a patterned lilac velvet seat and saber legs. Two Minaret accent tables by Global Views are perfectly spun to achieve crisp, clean lines with thick glass lenses resting inside the tabletops.

GATHERING TOGETHER

It is hard to decide what is the most eye-catching element of the elegant dining room. Costantini Pietro’s contemporary Light chairs feature conspicuously high backrests embellished with metal handles. Their slender silhouette is upholstered in Kravet, plum colored velvet fabric with stained beach sides. The chairs offer seating for 10 at Cattelan Italia’s Butterfly table, with a glass top and an elegant, rounded edge set on a sculptural metal base. Flanking the seating area are 20-foot-high stacked and book-matched porcelain slabs, chosen by Press, in shades of black and white, encased in black lacquer frames, acting as stunning statement pieces. Lighting the scene is an Elements of Love chandelier by Ilfari with diamond shaped crystals as big as a human heart, suspended from a chrome bar. The light of the fixture reflects off the polished surfaces and inlaid glass doors of the custom designed Madeline buffet by Swaim Furniture.

GENTLEMAN’S SPACE

Custom made and hand carved by LA firm 11 Ravens, the Stealth pool table in the bar room takes its inspiration from its bomber aircraft namesake. Lights from below highlight its sleek black design and bold aesthetic. The Cubix LED Chandelier from Sonneman Lighting uses suspended cubes joined by a shared leg on each frame to allow for a myriad of horizontal and vertical placement. Additional light is provided by the 20-foot tall windows framed by custom cutout sheer draperies. Press designed the built-in cabinetry with a recycled glass countertop, with room for four televisions, and LED back-lit shelving which holds treasures from Global Views, John-Richard, The Howard Elliott Collection, and barware from GO Home Ltd. in crystal and chrome. Venice barstools by Miami’s own Muniz Plastics have seats upholstered in geometric Romo fabric. They are pulled up to a Glassísimo Waterdrop table with black brushed metal legs. The top of the table is painted underneath to give the illusion of raindrops. The Rubik’s Cube artwork comes from an Atlanta art gallery who reached out to Press via Instagram.

ART LOVER

The alcove outside the dining room plays host to a 100-inch x 100-inch art resin print, “Light My Way II” by D’Alessandro Léon, which Press found at Left Bank Gallery. LED strip lighting inset along the sides change colors at the click of a remote and crystal sconces further illuminate the piece.

SIMPLE ELEGANCE

A six lamp Huntington chandelier with nickel and glass tubes from Hudson Valley Lighting shines down on the kitchen island. The island serves as a guest seating area via acrylic and chrome stools upholstered in chinchilla-striped vinyl. Flat panels keep the kitchen cabinetry modern and sleek in keeping with the rest of the home. Stainless steel and chrome accents are the perfect complimentary material in this sleek space.

FAMILY TIME

The sectional with curved arms and built-in chaises, clad in charcoal crushed velvet performance fabric to resist staining, holds pride of place in this comfortable family room. Custom pillows in a variety of soft textures invite children’s cuddles and the custom area rug in shades of blue, gray, and silver is a flat weave to provide the perfect play surface. Press designed the wall unit of durable futuristic polymer and open glass shelving to provide storage, and to house art pieces like the silver man sculpture by John-Richard. The center is left open to host the sound bar and television. The wallpaper behind the unit has a fur-like texture. Sheer patterned draperies and motorized shades tame the afternoon sun.

CHIC BEGINNINGS

Custom chairs from Design Master Furniture echo the vinyl clad stools at the kitchen island, but have a bit of added luxe with their patterned velvet backs and acrylic legs. They provide seating at the chic and modern Arcadia dining table from Bernhardt crafted from acrylic and stainless steel. Graced by a faux wood top with silver leaf backing, the rectangular table resembles a glistening block of ice. Above, Hudson Valley’s Liberty chandelier has retro coil bulbs in ballooning clear glass alternating with exposed filament bulbs and protruding rods refracting light from crystal and icy handcrafted glass discs. Floor-toceiling sheer window treatments and motorized shades diffuse radiant sunlight streaming in.

COMFORTABLE LUXURY

Press calls this “a bed to die for” when she describes the Bernhardt Interiors Estella bed in this master suite. The acrylic bed is wrapped in patterned Kravet luxe velvet and topped with organic silk and linen bedding from Donna Karen. Set against a wall sporting silver lizard skin wallpaper, a pair of Bernhardt curved steel benches upholstered in Kravet pewter velvet, grace the foot of the bed. Hepburn custom chests from Swaim have contrasting silver wood at base and drawers and are topped (by the designer) with glass. Twin Royalton chandeliers from Hudson Valley Lighting bring back the glamor of a Jazz Age ballroom as strings of crystal beads cascade down around the light source. A Dana Classic chaise covered in velvet, from Interlude Home, offers seating by the bank of windows and a glass top adorns the highly polished wood of the John-Richard dresser with aluminum hardware.

VERSATILE HISTORY

The highlight of this combined guest room and office space is the modern take on an old classic, the “Murphy Bed.” Originally created in 1900 when Lawrence Murphy wanted to court his love in his parlor but he had only a one room apartment. The solution to this moral dilemma? A disappearing bed. Today, Murphy Beds are used as clever space and storage solutions. Here, a queen bed provides a vibrant core color of tomato red.. The wall unit, underneath color blocked open shelving, also slides out to form a desk. Black poufs serve as seats or, when turned upside down, act as end tables. A houndstooth valance, trimmed in red cording, the horizontal striped two-tone shade, and the custom black and white fluffy rug add further whimsy to this delightful funhouse of a room.

THOUGHTFUL DESIGN

Two different wallpapers, textured blue and textured white, set the tone in this formal power room. Press designed the wide floating cabinet topped by three inches of white crystalline countertop. Atop it sits a Cal De Medici transparent crystal sink by Maestrobath, serviced by the stunning Graff faucet mounted on to the LEDbacklit mirror. The Accordèon Chandelier by Marc Sadler for Slamp Lighting looks like a delicate fabric wrought in crystal, with an LED crown, the brightness of which may be dimmed as needed.

FAMILY TIES

Creating Traditions

Your Family Will Love

This time of year is a reflective one. We remember childhood holidays spent with family - the food, the laughter, the celebrations. For most people, memories that stand out the most as they look back are the traditions their families had during this season. From dishes that were only made one day a year to the decorations hung with care, to when special music was played (and what artists were listened to), there are so many specific traditions families use to mark the Holidays. If you are starting to gather family traditions of your own or if you are just looking to add a few new things to the mix, here are some great ideas that will help you make memories for years to come.

SAME MENU EACH YEAR

One way to make this time of year special and memorable is to make a menu for each holiday and then stick to those delicious dishes every year. This might be a great time to pull out old family recipes and find favorites your great grandparents were enjoying during this season. Or, if you come from a family that doesn’t have a lot of traditions around food, now is a great time to start your own. You can also pick modernized versions of recipes or customize old favorites to match your family’s tastes, but bringing the same dishes back year after year creates a special feeling around the table. Food is the perfect way to bring everyone together as different genera tions in the family work to create a special meal.

GATHERING TOGETHER

Another great tradition found at the dinner table is the decor. Many families have dishes or flatware that has been passed down through generations. Pulling them out during the hol idays lends a special feel that connects you to your family from years past. Setting a beautiful table can add a little more work but it’s also something you can delegate to others. This is something even older children can help with or can take over completely. It gives teens and preteens a job to keep them busy while also letting them be creative and take ownership of an important part of the holiday festivities.

MEANINGFUL ACTIONS

Creating events or activities you can do no matter where you are is a fun way to create fam ily traditions. For Thanksgiving, creating a Wall of Gratitude gets the people in your life thinking about the things they are thankful for. You can either hang up large sheets of craft or tracing paper from rolls to create a board or you can use sticky notes to make a colorful wall filled with gratitude. You can also plan a fun “Welcome Christmas” ceremony after Thanksgiving dinner where you ceremoniously play the first Christmas album of the year. For Christmas, consider getting tickets to the Nutcracker Ballet each year or organizing a themed scavenger hunt before Christmas. Have a Christmas tea on Christmas Eve day or take time each year to drive through a neighborhood in your area known for having beautiful light displays. You can also pick a local light display to go see as a family. Most botanical gardens will be decked out this time of year so it should

be easy to find one close to you. For younger children, bake cookies that they can decorate or help them build a gingerbread house each year. Take a silly family photo with different themes (pajamas, Santa, ugly sweater, etc.) and then go out to eat after all dressed up in your photo attire.

CREATIVE COUNTDOWNS

Young children can have a difficult time tracking time, especially when they are looking forward to something. Starting the tradition of an Advent calendar is a great way to engage the whole family and stops them from asking you “how many days is it till Christmas” nonstop. There are tons of options online so you are sure to find one that will work for you and your family. From simple chocolates to fun games and activities, there is something for everyone. And the adults don’t need to feel left out. You can find ones with luxury items like skin care products, wine, whiskey, and tea just to name a few. If you want to truly customize your calen dar for your family, you can always make one on your own and fill it with things that remind you of each person or that you know everyone will enjoy and cherish. Use small boxes or draw string bags from the craft store to wrap the gifts in and then number them with each day from December 1st to the 25th.

DECK THE HALLS

Working together to decorate the tree or your home can be a great tradition, especially if you do it around the same time each year. Make a fun drink, grab some snacks, and then go pick the perfect tree. If you use an artificial tree, get the whole family involved in setting it up. Another fun tradition is picking out a new ornament each year. You can do this as a family deciding on one ornament that represents the last 12 months of your family’s life the best, or each person can pick their own. Have them explain why they picked the ornament and what it means to them. While you won’t have a themed tree, you will have lots of great memories. Another fun activity is wreath making. You can purchase premade wreaths from your local tree stand and then pick up bows, ribbons, lights, and ornaments from the craft or dollar store. Display the wreaths around your home or hang them from the exterior doors and windows for an extra festive touch.

L ight Up the Season

Nothing says it’s the Holidays like seeing homes in your neighborhood lit up with twinkling lights. A tradition that dates back hundreds of years, lighting one’s home is a special moment that signals the start of the best time of year. Holiday lights started as a Christmas tradition but have been adopted by people around the world to signify the season. The practice began as a way to illuminate the ornaments that were placed on the tree and to signify the light of Jesus.

Originally just candles attached to the tree using wax or pins, the practice began in Germany during the 17th century and over the next 200 years as it began to spread throughout Europe.

This continued until around 1900 when candleholders became popular and people started to use them instead of wax or pins to hold the candles to the trees. The purpose however, stayed the same. It was not until around 1915 that lanterns were also used, replacing the candles on trees as the main form of illuminating and providing glittering beauty to these wonderful symbols of Christmas.

The world of Christmas lights really became something amazing with the invention of the light bulb and electricity. Edward Johnson, a friend of Thomas Edison, wanted to replace the candles with a string of colored electric lights. He did this with 80 pear-shaped bulbs on a single wire. Several publications covered his lighting of the first tree, which rotated as the red, white, and blue lights dazzled spectators. But the idea didn’t catch on widely in the U.S., as many Americans didn’t entirely trust electricity and the bulbs were too expensive to be practical. A string of 16 vaguely flame-shaped bulbs sitting in brass sockets the size of shot glasses sold for a pricey $12 (about $350 in today’s money) and electricity wasn’t even readily available. But by 1914, a 16-foot string cost just $1.75 and by the 1930s colored bulbs and cones were everywhere.

Christmas lights got a further boost in the 1920s when General Electric’s pre-assembled lights became more accessible and cheaper. Their beautiful red, white, and blue lights, which are still favorites of many today, led to the creation of the first string of Christmas lights.

Park City Tree grandinroad.com

They created a product that was easily mass produced starting the modern traditions we have today of placing strings of Christmas lights around our trees and homes to liven the holiday.

Outdoor light displays started in North America. These lights gained popularity after the first outdoor Christmas light bulbs and strings were seen in 1927, while novelty lights started to make an appearance during the 1930’s. This invention led to the wonder ful world of snowman lights, icicle lights, and other holiday lights we know and love today. Now these outdoor lights have become the main way people decorate their homes for the holidays. From string lights to netting that you can throw over a bush, to laser light projectors, there are so many great options for the outside of your home.

The Bubble Christmas light became popular after World War II. The bubbling effect was created by heating methylene chloride to a low boiling point inside the glass tube of the light. They were incredibly popular in the early 1950’s because of the novelty and the slight, tinkling sound they made. These lights were produced until around the 1970’s, however, you can still find these options online if you want to recreate that vintage look.

Now, LED lights are the popular trend thanks to their energy conserving design and their safe, heatless bulbs. Recent years have seen an increase in things like tube and track lighting. They also come in a wide variety of colors. And there is no need to worry about that harsh, blue tone LED lights used to emit. Now warm white lights are available so they are the perfect option for any tree.

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The Coconut House

Tropical Vibes Modern

By Channing Spano Photography by: Alexia Fodere

With the influx of people to the area, designers at DKOR Interiors are seeing the tension between clients wanting to find a home they can move into quickly and the desire to create a custom space. A great solution is to find and purchase a spec home that is at the middle or end phases of construction so necessary customi zations can be made before the project’s completion. “Spec homes are going up all across our area and buyers love the timeline these home’s provide,” says DKOR Interiors found er and Principal Designer, Ivonne Ronderos. “We do find that new owners can feel limited by the options and finishes already in place. We love it when they come to us with a project and we get the opportunity to walk them through the process of creating a unique home they will love.”

The process of creating a dream home is something Ronderos loves and she takes pride in how she has organized her company to accomplished those goals. “We are unique in that we don’t take kickbacks or markup items,” she explains. “We start with the clients expectations and budget and then we give them a clear, hourly es timate that’s transparent and helps us create a relationship of trust. This really does allow us to communicate what can realistically be done inside of all budgets, big and small.” Ronderos and DKOR Interiors also take great pride in helping clients see past some of the problematic things that come with a spec home, like poor staging and cheap furniture used to quickly sell the home.

Lush Life

The outside of the home is a study in contemporary lines and materials. Stucco, glass, and metal come together to create a home that showcases the great level of design and architecture in South Florida. Beautiful landscaping, featuring layers of color and texture, softens the exterior and helps carry the theme of tropical living from the inside to the outdoor spaces as well. Natural stone and colorful yet understated tile create an elegantly contemporary pool area. From this angle it’s easy to see why the home owners love spending so much time in this space.

This modern, tropical home is a great example of how a spec project can be expertly customized to fit a client’s exact tastes. Purchased towards the end of construction, the family enlisted Ronderos to help them work with already existing finishes while also adding as many custom touches as possible. “When we took this project on we basically renovated most of the spaces; from adding custom carpentry, to changing out the lighting in many rooms, to making sure there were layers of textures to add more visual interest. We completely changed the look of the home,” says Ronderos. She also oversaw the landscaping so it matched the beauty and design on the inside of the home and curated the outdoor living spaces to create a feeling of depth and history. The end result is a stunning, tropically inspired space that fits both the day to day needs and the design requirements of the owners.

Open and Organic

The home’s large and dramatic foyer sets the tone for the rest of the living spaces and offers a hint at the rest of the great design that lays ahead. Right away, organic patterns and textures grab family and guests as they enter the home, adding warmth to the open space. Beautiful and structural orb shaped lights are a great balance to the more natural elements like the indoor plants. A sweeping staircase with glass railings allows light from the floor to ceiling windows to stream through the room uninterrupted.

Seating for All

Featuring two comfortable seating areas, the great room is a large space that needed an expert’s eye.The size of the space attracted the buyers to the home. As avid entertainers, the client’s need for seating was an important aspect to creating this living area. “Breaking up the room using these two seating areas was our solution to a large space and the owners love having two areas for reading, games, and entertaining,” says Ronderos. On the main wall, the existing stone accent was framed out in custom cabinetry to create a wall unit that fits the room perfectly and brings scale and balance to the space.

Open for Business

The kitchen’s sleek design pairs perfectly with the rest of the contemporary home. Most of the cabinetry is original to the builder but Ronderos was still able to customize this space by adding cabinetry panels in a light, taupe tone to the front of the island that was originally open with a stone backing. The focal point over the large island is the unique, geometric light figure with almost holographic details. Tone-on-tone accents elevate the space and the kitchens placement next to the great room offers a perfect entertaining set up for dinner parties and movie nights.

Entertaining Well

The formal dining room received a pop of color and texture thanks to the herringbone tile accent wall and a tonal wallcovering. The design team chose to close off a small wine room originally added by the builder to create a longer wall with shelves that display important keepsakes and beautiful servingware. This also allowed Ronderos to place a built-in buffet that offers plenty of storage as well as a place to set platters during parties and holidays. A live edge dining table offers seating for eight, flanked by chairs with a mid-century modern flair. The room is finished with a trio of abstract art that continues the theme of tropical colors and gold tones.

Soothing Tones

The master bedroom is a calming space. Ronderos used textures to create the visual interest in the room, allowing her to keep the colors muted and clean. Behind the bed, panels of custom carpentry were added to create a small bump out that has been lit to create depth. A geometric patterned wall covering adds another layer of texture to the room. The tall, upholstered headboard and pendant lighting fill the airspace in the room.

Entertaining Dream

With a focus on hosting, the clients wanted to take their guest accommodations to a whole new level. “They really wanted to focus on this space and create a tropical oasis that welcomes family and friends,” Ronderos explains. The team introduced lots of natural and tropical textures to the room using wall coverings, rattan, and house plants. The base of the room is neutral with natural textures and fibers which allows the tropical-themed wall covering to pop. In addition to the fabulous accent wall, high-impact elements like the neon sign (that says The Coconut House, the home’s nickname) and pink velvet desk chair add interest to the room. A variety of real plants help bring the wallcovering to life and add an important touch of green throughout the space. Ronderos focus on both elevated design and playfulness meant she relied on mid-century pieces to lend a casual, yet elegant feel to the room. If you look closely, you will see a touch of brass on the nightstands which add a bit of shine and sophistication. The finished room is playful and design forward.

Custom Touches

This spa-like master bath was made even better with a few custom touches and unique accessories. A natural wood panel was added to create more privacy for the shower while two pendant lights with coral like material were added to enhance the tropical feel of the bathroom. A large, freestanding tub softens the lines in the bathroom while the floor mounted tub filler continues the contemporary feel. On the far wall, texture has been added with a linear patterned wall covering. Floor to ceiling windows allow light to stream into this beautiful space.

Living Life Outside

On the lanai, a collection of four unique seating groups, each with their own designated purpose, have been arranged to maximize entertainment space as well as create a curated look. These areas include lounge and casual groupings, intimate seating arrangements, and an outdoor cooking and dining area. Here, chairs and a sofa with a distinctive crosshatch pattern and light wood frames surround a table with a base made of rope. Ronderos used a range of circular pieces to create a casual and light aesthetic. They are also practical as circular pieces are easier to move around during parties. The mix of stone and rattan materials creates a seamless integration with the lush landscaping around the pool.

Oh Tannenbaum

Keeping Your Tree Fresh

Throughout the Christmas Season

For many, picking out a fresh Christmas tree each year is a family tradition they look forward to. Walking through the rows of pre-cut trees to find the perfect one for your home or going out to get one yourself from a tree farm is a fun experience that ties us back to generations past. But there is no denying that a live tree takes more care. They can also be more dangerous. Dry Christmas trees are extremely flammable. With nearly one in five Christmas tree fires caused by decorative lights, it’s important to make sure your tree is well taken care of so dry branches and faulty electric wiring don’t cause a Christmas catastrophe. Here are five tips to help you keep your tree fresh so you can celebrate in style and safety all season long.

START FRESH

Finding a tree that will last starts with the one you pick. Feel the branches for the softness of the needles and make sure they are all a green, healthy color without a brown hugh. Shake the trees you are considering and check for falling needles. Fresh trees will hold their needles while older trees will shed. You can also call local stores or tree tents to ask what days they get their deliveries so you can pick trees before they have time to sit and dry out. You can also get more life out of your tree by picking a specific type of tree. Both Douglas and Fraser Firs are very popular due to their longevity and strong branches.

DRINK UP

Always place your tree in water right away. This is a live plant so make sure you are keeping the reservoir of your stand full and check it regularly. Trees drink a lot of water, especially when they are first brought into your home! Look for a stand that holds a quart of water for each inch of stem diameter. For example, if your tree trunk has an 8-inch diameter, you’ll want a stand that holds at least 2 gallons of water. It’s also important to check the water levels often because trees will drink in cycles. One day you may find the reservoir empty and then next it’s like the tree hasn’t used any of the water at all. That’s totally normal. While there are products you can add to the water to keep your tree healthy, most experts say they are unnecessary. Water alone should be enough to keep your tree healthy and happy. Filtered, tap, or spring water also doesn’t seem to make a difference and your tree can thrive off of whatever you have on hand.

BRIGHT AND LIGHT

1. 2. 3. 5. 4.

MAKING THE CUT

Once cut, sap rushes to close and seal the trunk. This stops the tree’s ability to absorb water. If you are purchasing from a tree stand, ask them to create a fresh cut at the bottom of the trunk. Trees are cut and shipped across state lines and sometimes across the county, so there is a good chance your tree has had plenty of time to seal its trunk and won’t be able to get any water no matter how full you keep the tree stand at home. Ask them to trim half an inch off the trunk in a flat circle, like a cookie. Make sure they avoid cutting the trunk at an angle or in a V-shape as this will make it harder to keep the tree upright in the stand. Never shave off any of the bark to make the tree fit the stand. The xylem, which allows the tree to drink, is located just below the bark. If you damage or remove it, the tree can’t get any water.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Another way to keep your tree fresh is to replace all your older, larger lights with smaller strands that won’t heat up while on the tree causing it to dry out faster. Make sure that any other lighted elements you use to decorate are also not getting hot, both for safety reasons and to prevent hurting your tree. New LED lights stay cool, are inexpen sive, energy efficient, don’t burn out (causing the whole string to blow) and last a long time so you can reuse them year after year. And don’t worry about that unnatural, blue glow that some people associate with LED lights. You can find “warm white” lights that will mimic the look of traditional incandescent bulbs. For safety, even on the most green of trees, make sure the lights are turned off before you leave the house and before you go to bed.

While you want to pick a spot in your home where the tree will be most enjoyed, make sure you keep it away from direct sunlight or any heat source like a fireplace and or furnace. While not a huge concern in Florida, placing your tree near a heat souce, like the ones found in homes up north, will absolutely cause it to become dry and brittle even if you are watering it regularly. These cold weather lovers also appreciate a bit of humidity so placing a humidifier nearby will help slow the drying process and keep the tree fresher longer. If you’re able to, consider lowering the temperature in the room where the tree is located.

Gifting Guide

Let the gift giving commence! The old saying goes “it’s better to give than to receive” but with all the hustle and bustle this season brings it sometimes doesn’t feel that way. Even the most gifted of gift givers can find themselves stumped as they look through their list of people they need to buy for, adding stress to an already busy time of year. This home focused gift guide covers a range of categories so you will be able to find the perfect thing or be hit with some seasonal inspiration as you thumb through this list.

1. Petcube Bites 2 Wi-Fi Pet Camera & Treat Dispenser $249 Chewy.com

2. Levoit - PlasmaPro True HEPA Air Purifier $199.99 Bestbuy.com

3. Samsung - 65” Class 7 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $549.99 Bestbuy.com

4. Portable 2.3x3.4” Instant Photo Printer $66 Amazon.com

5. FIZZICS - DraftPour Beer Dispenser $114.99 Amazon.com

6. Magfit iPad Magnetic Foldable Float Stand $77.99 Magfits.com

7. Eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac $139.99 Amazon.com

1. Solis Terracotta Vases $99–$299 Potterybarn.com

2. Classic Greek Antique White Bust Sculpture $59.99 Lampsplus.com

3. Half Circle Dimensional Wall Art by Roar & Rabbit $319 Westelm.com

4. Charvin Deluxe Oil Painting Set $1,403.59 Jerrysartarama.com

5. Onyx Bowl $206.10 arhaus.com

6. Match Cloche $34.00 anthropologie.com

7. Modern Gulf Coast ColorStak, S/4 $89.00 boothandwilliams.com

PLANTS AND GARDEN

1. Minimalist Planter $31.10

Etsy.com - LuxeLifeDecor

2. Tough Stuff Collection (Hardy Plants) $79

Bloomscape.com

3. Urban Botanics: An Indoor Plant Guide for Modern Gardeners $18 Bespokepost.com

4. Deluxe Culinary Herb Grow Kit $50 Homegrown-garden.com

5. The Floral Society Garden Kit $110

Havenwellwithin.com

6. Copper Watering Can $29.99 Plants.com

7. Smart Garden 3 Self Watering Indoor Garden $99.95 Nordstrom.com

Festive Beginnings

Holiday Breakfast and Brunch Ideas

While the main star of the show this time of year is dinner, your friends and family will need some delicious dishes to get them through the morning activites from parade watching to present opening. Here are some great recipes that can be made as standalone items or you can combine a few to create a delicious Holiday brunch spread.

• 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup 2% milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup butter, melted, divided

• 1 package (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed

• 1 cup cornflake crumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• In a large bowl, combine the soup, sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup butter. Stir in the hash browns. Transfer to a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.

• In a small bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs, Parmesan cheese and remaining butter; sprinkle over top. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 45-50 minutes or until heated through.

Cranberry Scones with Orange Glaze

(MAKES 12 SCONES)

SCONES:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

• 5 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided

• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into cubes

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• ½ cup + 1 tablespoon heavy cream, divided

• 2 eggs, divided

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

GLAZE:

• ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar

• ½ tablespoon orange juice

• Preheat the oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, sift together flour, 4 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Add butter and cut into the flour using your hands or a pastry cutter. Working quickly so the butter doesn’t melt, create pea sized crumbles. Carefully fold in the cranberries.

• In a small bowl, combine ½ cup heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then pour in the liquid mixture. Use a spatula to carefully fold the ingredients until the liquid is just incorporated.

• Roll dough out onto a lightly floured surface forming it into a rectangle, about 6-inches by 8-inches. Add more flour as needed if it’s too sticky to work with. Cut the dough in half once horizontally and twice vertically to create 6 equal rectangles. Slice each rectangle in half diagonally to form 12 triangle-shaped scones. Carefully transfer scones to a silpat or parchment-lined baking sheet, placing them about 2 inches apart.

• In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg. Then add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream and whisk together. Brush the tops of the scones with egg wash and sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of sugar. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until scones are lightly golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes in pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

• While scones are cooling, combine confectioner’s sugar and half the orange juice in a small bowl. Whisk until combined, adding more orange juice as needed to reach desired glaze consistency. When scones are cool, drizzle orange glaze on top.

Classic Quiche

Lorraine (SERVES 8)

• 1 frozen crust

• 1/2 lb thin strips of bacon, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces

• 1/2 yellow onion, diced

• 1 cup shredded cheese , (I used sharp white cheddar, but gruyere is classic)

• 1 3/4 cup half and half, (or equal parts whole milk and heavy cream)

• 4 eggs, large

• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper, finely ground

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

PREPARE THE PIE CRUST:

• Place prepared pie crust in a tart pan and peirce the bottom of the crust with a fork every inch or so. Follow the package instructions and blind bake the crust until it is a light golden color and almost baked through, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush the inside of the baked tart with a whisked egg white - this will prevent the crust from becoming soggy from the filling.

MAKE THE SAVORY EGG FILLING:

• While pie is pre-baking, preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add chopped bacon. Cook, stirring often until the fat is rendered and the bacon is crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon to a separate dish. Add the diced onions to the bacon fat and cook, stirring often until the onions are golden. Remove with a slotted spoon to the dish with the bacon.

• In a large bowl whisk 4 eggs. Add 1 3/4 cups half and half, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1/4 tsp paprika and 1/8 tsp of nutmeg and whisk together for about a minute to incorporate a little bit of air into the custard. Stir in the cheese, prepared bacon and onion then pour the filling into the prebaked crust.

BAKE THE QUICHE LORRAINE:

• Bake the quiche at 350˚ for about 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean and the center jiggles slightly. The quiche will continue cooking after it is removed from the oven. Cool slightly before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.

Apple Cider Mimosas

(MAKES 4)

• 1 half gallon of good apple cider

• 1 bottle of white wine of choice (pinot grigio works well)

• 1 bottle sparkling wine or champagne of choice

• Thin apple slices for garnish

• Fresh Tyme sprigs for garnish

Mix equal parts of apple cider, white wine, and sparkling wine or champagne in four champagne flutes. Garnish with apple slices and a sprig of thyme if desired.

Apple Pie Parfaits

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 large apples , peeled, cored, and diced very small

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• pinch of salt

(SERVES 6)

• 2 greek yogurt

• 1.5 cups granola (apple or maple flavored works best)

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

• Caramel sauce to drizzle

• In a medium non-stick pan, over medium-high heat, melt butter and saute apples, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes until they are very soft, but not mushy.

• Add in brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt; cook for 1-2 more minutes until completely incorporated.

• Take off the heat and let it cool completely.

• Evenly distribute the apple mixture, granola, and yogurt in alternating layers, among 6 dessert cups or ramekins.

• Sprinkle a little more granola on top, drizzle with caramel sauce and serve.

Traditional Shakshuka

(SERVES 6)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• ¼ teaspoon chili powder

• 1 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes

• 6 large eggs

• salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped

• Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan on medium heat. Add the chopped bell pepper and onion and cook for 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.

• Add garlic and spices and cook for an additional minute.

• Pour the can of tomatoes and juice into the pan and break down the tomatoes using a large spoon. Season with salt and pepper and bring the sauce to a simmer.

• Use your large spoon to make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into each well. Cover the pan and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the eggs are done to your liking.

• Garnish with chopped cilantro and parsley.

• 1 loaf (1 pound) herb or cheese bakery bread, cubed

• 1 pound cubed ham

• 1 medium green pepper, chopped

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• Place bread cubes in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish (or baking dish of your choice of equivalent size).

• In a large skillet, cook and crumble sausage with pepper and onion over medium-high heat until no longer pink, 5-7 minutes. With a slotted spoon, place sausage mixture over bread. Sprinkle the top with cheese.

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 6 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon ground mustard

• 2 cups 2% milk

• In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, mustard and milk; pour over top. Refrigerate, covered, overnight.

• Preheat the oven to 350° and remove strata from the refrigerator while the oven heats.

• Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 30-35 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting.

Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake (SERVES 12)

CAKE

• 1 stick butter softened

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1 egg

• 2 cups flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• pinch salt

• 3/4 cup milk

FILLING

• 3 tablespoons butter softened

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

• 1/2 cup flour

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

TOPPING

• 5 tablespoon butter softened

• 3/4 cup flour

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

• Preheat the oven to 350F.

• In the bowl of a mixer, cream together the butter and sugar, scraping down the sides occasionally. Add the vanilla and egg, mix in.

• In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder and salt. Add one half of it to the mixer, and when mostly combined, add the milk. Once the milk is mostly incorporated, add the rest of the flour.

• To make filling, put the softened butter, flour, sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the ingredients together until soft crumbs form

• To make topping add the butter, flour, brown sugar and cinnamon to a food processor and pulse until coarse crumbs form. You can cut in with forks or a pastry cutter.

• Grease a 9x9 baking pan. Pour in ½ of cake batter, and spread to all four corners. Sprinkle the filling over top, then pour in remaining cake batter, and spread carefully across the top, disturbing the filling layer as little as possible. Sprinkle the topping over the top and press lightly so it adheres.

• Bake in a preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool to warm on a wire rack before serving.

Barnes founder & ceo

“

Deciding who to work with is significantly important. I invite you to talk with the people you’ll be working with by phone or coming by our office.”

Aaron