You are here: Vol. 15 No. 1  
Cover of Florida Design Magazine

On my desk is “The Mini Zen Garden,” a small sandbox with three black rocks and a miniature rake. Whenever I need to take a “tranquility break” during the day, I gently rake the sand around the rocks, breathe deeply, and try to relax. It’s a ritual I call “Zen-to-Go.”

A permanent state of serenity, however, prevails in designer Sue Strober’s Gulf Coast retreat on Siesta Key. To achieve this peaceful aesthetic, Strober retained architects Maho Abe and Rina Okawa, of ZEN Associates, Inc. in Massachusetts, who specialize in Asian design principles. Encompassing a main house, guesthouse and meditation garden, this amazing sanctuary is truly one with nature.

Worldly influences also shape an estate on Gem Island, located near Vero Beach. Here, designer Thomas D. Stringer conceived a refined interior for his client, drawing inspiration from the “grand tours” that young aristocrats used to take around the world. The result is an eclectic décor that combines a variety of cultures and styles.

Designer Janet Bilotti’s clients, Joan and Michael Salke, are familiar with the fine art of living. Their collection of museum-quality art comprises more than 200 paintings, sculpture and photography, which they acquired with the assistance of renowned curator Diego Cortez. At the couple’s request, Bilotti created special lighting and an understated environment that magnificently showcases each piece.

An artful blend of classic and contemporary styles comes together in a home designed by Betsy Godfrey. Neutral backgrounds set the stage for vivid accent colors, such as paprika, cayenne and purple, which pop up in the fabrics, art and accessories. Warm and inviting, the interior exudes a “jewelry box” feel.


These gems and many more color the pages of this issue. Enjoy.

Karen B. King McCallum
Managing Editor
TABLE of CONTENTS
Vol. 15 No. 1
COVER STORY

AN APPRECIATION FOR FINE ART AND ANTIQUES
Melding various styles, Thomas D. Stringer’s design draws from the “grand tours” that young aristocrats took centuries ago. Photography by Dan Forer, Miami, FL.

FEATURES
A JEWEL BOX IN NAPLES
Betsy Godfrey adds an element of surprise to a Gulf Coast home using rich, elegant tones of purple, paprika and cayenne.


ALIVE WITH COLOR AND MOVEMENT
To instill a condominium with a modern edge, designer H. Allen Holmes and architect Mitchell O’Neil play with Art Deco curves and cool watery hues.


INSTILLED WITH ENDURING STYLE
Designed by Carole Korn, a Palm Beach estate stands the test of time with an array of contemporary classic pieces.


DARING COLOR AND DRAMA
Cecil Hayes boldly mixes springtime hues, warm woods and Deco-inspired custom furnishings to give an interior dramatic punch.

THE FINE ART OF LIVING
In Joan and Michael Salke’s Naples residence, Janet Bilotti establishes an understated environment that allows the couple’s museum-quality art to shine.

SERENITY ON SIESTA KEY
With the assistance of Zen architects Maho Abe and Rina Okawa, designer/owner Sue Strober realizes her vision of an Asian-inspired sanctuary.

FUTURISTIC THINKING
Incorporating biomorphic forms and amorphous shapes, L. Reese Cumming’s space-age concept takes a waterfront penthouse to the next level.

A FLORIDA ISLAND PLANTATION
Situated along the Loxahatchee River, Lauree and Bob Simmons’ sprawling Jupiter home exudes the charm of the tropics.

ON THE SHORES OF THE ATLANTIC
At the helm of designing this three-story beach house, Mark Rash combines cottage influences, nautical details and a seashore palette.

RADIATING WARMTH AND PERSONALITY
Uniting two adjoining apartments, Anne Folsom Smith creates an inviting residence that captures the passionate spirit of its owners.

SPECIAL FEATURES

Oscar De La Renta: Beyond Fashion

High Point Market

Alex Katz: Big Man On Canvas

A Century Of Modern Seating

Italian Style In The Home

IFAE: Palm Beach3

Victor Vasarely: Op Art Genius

AIA Palm Beach Awards

Africa To The Everglades

Vangelis: In Full Bloom

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