The penthouse unit’s previously dark and outdated interior was revitalized to embrace natural light, enhancing the expansive and open feel of the space. Now, each room enjoys unobstructed views of the emerald waters. Despite some areas having relatively low ceiling heights, strategic soffits were used to elevate the ceilings wherever possible, preserving the open ambiance. Subtle cove lighting and painted wood ceiling textures delicately define each area.
The owner wanted the condo to mirror the luxury and comfort of their nearby residence, with added convenience for beach and water access. A custom entry door with sidelights creates a grand and inviting entrance, allowing light to flood the unit while maintaining privacy. The stained wood flooring adds warmth to a color palette dominated by blues and whites, reflecting the nearby white sands and vibrant waters. Wainscoting and trim throughout the entry lobby and unit enhance the contemporary, nautical theme. Various materials, including plush furnishings, a limestone fireplace mantel, and veined quartz countertops, introduce a range of textures and sophistication.
A key element for the owner was ample wall space for displaying unique and local artwork. Accent lighting was meticulously installed to highlight these pieces, ensuring they stand out as focal points. Every detail in the unit was thoughtfully designed to emphasize the surrounding natural beauty and create a glamorous, intimate retreat for relaxation and escape.
This Gulf-front “Sunrise” home was conceived as a foundational element of a planned private residence club enclave that will ultimately include a companion “Sunset” residence, 10 three-bedroom villas, and a 20-room boutique hotel. The club’s first amenity, a gourmet restaurant, is already established directly across the street.
Operated as a hotel suite for families seeking week-long or shorter stays, the home’s design emphasizes hospitality-driven features: streamlined storage, spa-inspired bathrooms, and a variety of gathering spaces suited for both large groups and more intimate moments. Positioned atop a 25-foot dune, the floor plan is deliberately arranged to capture sweeping Gulf views from every interior room. The five-bedroom, four-bath layout accommodates either one large party or two smaller groups; by closing the interior stairwell and using the exterior stair access, each family can enjoy its own private level.
The green space between the planned Sunrise and Sunset homes will remain permanently undeveloped to preserve clear Gulf views for the hotel, the restaurant, and passersby along the roadway. This open area will also serve as a flexible venue for weddings, special events, and community activities.
This residential renovation entailed careful consideration of every element on site, from the boathouse on the water to the gates on the street. All were reimagined to honor and celebrate the family’s three generations in the home as well as the beauty of the environment. The old oak trees on the property had become overgrown and neglected through the years and blocked the vistas from the house to the water. These were thinned out and beautifully sculpted to provide a private, park-like atmosphere. The previously hidden house became visible from the street through a gated entrance and brick paved drive.
The house interior was dated with shag carpet, small, compartmentalized rooms, low windows, narrow passages, and dark tile throughout. The roof was raised to allow window heights to be increased, and glazing carried up into the gables to flood the interior rooms with light and open views of the tree canopy. Additions for a new primary suite, dining pavilion, and pool guest house were constructed in the same style as the home. The old, screened pool was replaced with an open, infinity-edged pool that unites the house with unimpeded views across the bay. Despite the myriads of changes to both the house and the property, the entire composition looks organic and timeless, a tribute to the past while looking forward to the future generations who will enjoy the property.
Originally purchased as a coastal retreat for visitors, the property suffered from dark, confined spaces and restricted sightlines that detracted from its prime waterfront location.
Our design strategy prioritized opening the interior to maximize the panoramic views along the beach and Highway 98. The existing primary bedroom and wet bar were demolished, creating a dramatic great room that transforms the unit into a versatile and open residence, perfect for gatherings.
Vertical expansion was critical to reinforce clear sightlines. We rerouted the mechanical ductwork to eliminate soffits throughout the kitchen and living areas, while the dining room ceilings were raised to reveal tall curtainwall windows previously hidden behind dropped planes. These interventions dissolved the tunnel effect that had plagued the entry sequence.
Material choices emphasized light, reflection, and visual continuity. We refreshed the kitchen cabinets and living room in a soothing color palette of white and silver, with pops of blue to relate to the water visible from the windows. The exterior deck received new tile matching the interior flooring, erasing the threshold between inside and outside.
Nestled in the charming community of Mexico Beach, this three-story waterfront residence offers breathtaking Gulf views. The design prioritizes a seamless connection to the beach, with a layout that maximizes panoramic vistas. The exterior materials, influenced by the natural surroundings, feature stucco in a sand-like hue and driftwood-inspired siding, blending modern aesthetics with the coastal environment.
Designed to host large family gatherings, the home comfortably sleeps up to 12 guests. The client envisioned flexible, open spaces that encourage social interaction and provide ample opportunities to enjoy the beach views. Folding panel doors open the main living area to an expansive pool deck, ideal for dining, grilling, sunbathing, swimming, and gathering around the fire pit.
Design elements blur the lines between interior and exterior, enhancing the connection to the beach. Wood ceilings create a smooth transition from indoors to outdoors, while large windows on the beach side offer unobstructed views. Sand-colored tile flooring flows seamlessly from the interior to the deck, further linking the two spaces. The infinity-edge pool visually extends toward the shoreline, reinforcing the home’s coastal feel.
The third-floor features two master bedrooms with beachfront views and private patio access, while two spacious bunk rooms provide sleeping for eight. To mitigate potential hurricane surge damage, the first floor is minimally programmed, housing an entry foyer, two garages, an elevator lobby, and a stairwell with expansive windows. A striking floating staircase, supported by painted steel stringers and wood treads with glass railings, connects the three levels. A dramatic 25-foot window runs the length of the stairwell, filling the space with natural light and enhancing the home’s bright, airy atmosphere.
