Jewel Box
When this project presented itself, I tapped into my own inner Southern roots to discover what the house expected. Not the Northeast but Southern Florida was the calling.
It was a home that needed no introduction, nicknamed “The Jewel Box” it was indeed the perfect description for one of the most unique properties I have ever experienced.
Picturesque details, lavish gardens and great bones give the house a strong sense of style. Situated on almost two acres and built in the early 1950’s, this home embodies the quintessential old Floridian flavor with a Regency flair. Accent on terrazzo floors, pecky cypress ceiling appointments and a stucco fireplace are all nods to Florida’s coastal style. As you move through the home the spaces have a cozy meandering sensation. Over the years, which started out as a simple 3-bedroom house, it was developed into a luxurious home with multiple alterations.
Originally decorated by the previous owner in an old-world continental style, my client desired to put their own stamp on this residence and craved an ambiance that reflected a balance of charm and sophistication. As always, it was a great honor to help them realize all their dreams!
There is always a jumping off point in design. With an architectural Mizner frame of mind I listened to my client and let the house inform me. The architectural details, clay barrel roof, stucco exterior, exotic gardens and plank style pale blue shutters were design cues of what direction to follow.
The personal nature of the art and antiques for the interior were chosen to truly make the family feel at home. Throughout the spaces the careful decoration unfolds as an exuberant celebration of the history of the property. Asian, abstract art, some edgy fabric choices along with unique textures, Spanish style furnishings, modern photography, fresh color choices, blues, greens, coral & browns were developed throughout the house. The criteria were if it’s fabulous we’ll work with it. Of course, many of the treasures were from previous homes. Heartfelt selections with great sentimental value. We added those precious bits into the mix proving that if it is wonderful there is always a value and purpose.
This is the door that greets you at the driveway and leads into the courtyard.
The front courtyard and entry to house in all its splendor.
Greetings at the interior of the entry foyer showcasing the original terrazzo floors, Regency style handrail and original panel walls leading to the second floor. We added soft floral wallpaper to tie the spaces together and give a warm welcome.
Immediately to the left is the main Living Room. This is where the terrazzo flooring continues & we added a hemp area rug. The pecky cypress beams are original elements within the framework of the room. The old-world architecture of the Addison Mizner style becomes a supporting character to center-stage modern furnishings as the home morphs into a conversation starter—a canvas for art, and a haven for entertainment.
This view of the living room stands out as a testament to the timeless beauty of tradition. Offering a slight sneak peek into the dining room. Here you can see we tapped into Asian, Spanish, and traditional inspired furnishing & accessories. Giclée prints by Irene Belknap, keep company with antique decoupage lamps on flanking demi lune cabinets. By keeping the fabrics fresh with a graphic design, it brings a sophisticated elevation to the compilation of the room. As we say, “It’s all in the mix”.
My stylistic range is to always capture visually inspiring spaces. By curating original works of art such as “Orange time” by Alicia Armstrong, we have created a home that exudes charm & warmth with pops of color.
I transformed this classic home, using its existing charm as a foundation for creative elements such as inspired textiles, stunning custom lighting, and grass cloth wall-covering. An artful arrangement creates an impactful but intimate atmosphere.
A full view with coffered ceiling and “V Groove board” detail, Calcutta marble, and view of the lush foliage beyond make this a heavenly place to create meals and hang out.
The Kitchen is the heartbeat of a home. It’s hub of activities weaves a family together. Swathed in a pinky-coral pallet this breakfast spot is a morning eye opener. The kitchen wraps around this space with French doors leading to the additional entertaining space of the exterior.
Signature style in this Marble white kitchen has all the classic details to grant an extra nod to “The Jewel Box.” “I could wrap myself in this every day!”
The cabinet in the living room creates a brushstroke moment leading us into the dining room.
Winter is considered “The Season” where from November until the end of May Florida has the driest and mildest temperatures, although it can get chilly from time to time. This original fireplace in the main living room was completely reimagined. I breathed new life into this area by creating a visually captivating focal point. Black and white tiles compliment the terazzo floors, the impressive shell sconces and original Dwyer oil painting are powerful features, centered around a stunning Chinoiserie coffee table. The bamboo chairs are easy to move and bring into the conversation group or just stay near and enjoy the firelight.
The whitewashed pecky cypress tray ceiling is an architectural moment so that I decided to go with a high contrast in color to accentuate it. With thoughtfulness and authentic details, I blended the richness of the past with harmonizing décor where a seamless bespoke space unfolds. The Den is used for cozy private moments and the bookshelves are filled with favorite objects such as shell collections, family photos, memorabilia, letters, and photos that document the original house.
Inspired by the custom millwork and traditional details, I created a space that was always ready for entertainment! An antique Persian rug, and dramatic chandelier up the ante on the dynamics of the bar area. Located directly off the dining room this high functioning spot is key when hosting a party.
For locals, it had quite a reputation for extravagant parties and illuminate fundraisers. My client wanted to continue the hospitality of convivial ongoing parties & fundraising events. Based on those ideals and the design of the house, it took a strong hold in our plans and visions.
Custom vanity, Schumacher 1889 wallpaper, gilded sconces, Calcutta marble and antique mirror give
this powder room “The Wow Factor.”
I crafted a design that marries refinement with comfort, resulting in a multi-faceted sense of beauty. The Family room showcases a mix of styles, blending, antiques, and notable highlights that include custom millwork, captivating artwork, and a stunning Asian inspired wallpaper in the formal powder room.
How special to have an entry vertibule into your master bedroom. Unexpected yet harmonious, it is enveloped in a tailored wallpaper, a sweet slipper chair, sconces, and garden seat to create a special moment.
Elements of beauty and Personal décor on the skirted table adds a soft touch.
This Master suite was an add on in the “90’s. With the vaulted ceiling, beams and shiplap creating an architecturally dramatic moment. I kept the walls, ceiling and floor a light clean color to showcase the art and furnishing.
Wanting to reflect my clients elevated taste and create an intimate Master bedroom we used masses of linen damask creating a cocoon effect. When the window treatments are pulled back the lush view of verdant foliage takes center stage.
Being a bibliophile myself, Books are always like a warm embrace – we were so lucky to inherit these pair of bookcases flanking the opening to the master closet and bath area. A chaise lounge defines the importance of this corner of the master bedroom, it makes for a very inviting situation.
Her closet is so well appointed that any item is easily accessible.
The master bath with stunning shell mirrors, a classic motif for the Floridian flair. Bamboo furnishing add interest while the shutters add light and privacy. This is one of a his and hers.
Always thinking about intimate moments, this guest suite is a stunning array of elevated elegance. Yet so approachable with a palette of corals, seafoam, pinks and creams creates a dream for visiting guests. Charming antique Chinese porcelain items added to this tray were curated with an eye for beauty!
Inspired by the quirkiness of the slight dormer feature we bathed this room is a small scale wallpaper. It is a foundation that holds this dreamy suite all together. Fostering a refined atmosphere, fabrics in shades of green reflect the homes lush courtyard.
Layers always add interest, details as a decorative tape on the skirt of the chairs to the pattern pillows provide entertainment for the eye!
The guest bath is a great color tie in to the guest room. A mini makeover took place here with new vanity, counter and wallpaper that delivers a fabulous color punch!
This space segues into the garage. As a blank space I decided to create a “mud” room for this busy family. A great spot to store gear and only steps away from the laundry to brush the beach sand off.
The Casita is a relaxing spot to gravite to, with a pair of sofa’s in perfect harmony, a fireplace and an abundance of Southern lush gardens -the goal was to create a place you never want to leave.
