Captivating Captiva
Desiring a much-needed Florida retreat, a "Wall Streeter" and his wife came
to me with the express wish that their home be soothing and designed in the
Florida vernacular. Created to sit comfortably overlooking the Gulf Dune
in Captiva, this home celebrates its regional location while achieving the
dreams of its homeowners.
We used extensive cantilevered porches and open terraces to create a
hovering effect. The design both inside and out reflects a laid-back casual
elegance that exudes comfort and relaxation. I chose clapboard siding,
shell-infused pavers and statement-making satin-finished metal roofing. We
painted the mahogany Tischler windows a sea-foam blue as well as both
house and shutters gradations of white to reflect our feeling and homage
to "Old Florida."
Like all of my "influenced designs," this home was not intended to be a
replica, only to capture that charm and charisma of some great, early
tropical homes. We clearly have moved forward from the massing with our
use of light, proportion and volume.
