Snell Isle Home Boasts Timeless Flourish

Not every memorable Florida home relies on sweeping waterfront views to make an impression. On St. Petersburg’s historic Snell Isle, a thoughtfully reimagined 3,800-square-foot residence, dubbed Florida Fleur, proves that layered interiors, enduring craftsmanship, and a strong sense of place can be just as compelling. This residence’s comprehensive renovation is the result of a close collaboration between Santa Fe-based husband-and-wife team Heather and Matt French of French & French Interiors and homeowners whose trust in the creative process shaped every design decision.

For the wife, a native of Monaco, and her husband, a surgeon from Chicago, the home’s appeal extended well beyond its Mediterranean façade. “We fell in love with the peaceful, tree-lined streets and lush surroundings of Snell Isle,” she says. “It feels wonderfully secluded, yet we’re only minutes from the restaurants, museums, and waterfront parks downtown.”

Built in 2016, the residence offers what Heather French describes as “wonderful bones.” Rather than tear it down, the homeowners chose to preserve its architectural presence while completely reenvisioning the interiors. “Our goal wasn’t to make the home feel newly renovated,” notes French. “We wanted it to feel as though it had evolved gracefully over time, blending classic architectural details with fresh, livable interiors.”

The design team drew inspiration from the wife’s international heritage. “The style of the home became a tribute to the romance of Old Florida viewed through a European lens,” says French. “Rather than something overtly coastal or trend-driven, we wanted it to feel timeless, collected, and deeply personal.”

That vision unfolds immediately upon entry, where black-and-white checkered stone floors establish a classic rhythm throughout the house. A richly detailed library and wine room flank the entrance, both wrapped in glossy emerald walls and connected by a Pierre Frey mural wallpaper. Beyond, coffered ceilings, custom millwork, jewel-toned velvets, and richly layered wallcoverings create interiors that are both expressive and refined. “The homeowners love to entertain, so we wanted guests to feel welcome the moment they arrived,” says French. “We intentionally broke some traditional design rules surrounding pattern scale. Successful maximalism isn’t about adding more—it’s about creating harmony through thoughtful color, texture, and material.”

The primary suite offers a quieter expression of that philosophy with a custom white leather-wrapped four-poster bed, Farrow & Ball’s soft blue Selvedge high-gloss paint, and tactile finishes that create an atmosphere of understated luxury. Outdoors, covered living spaces extend naturally from the interiors, reinforcing the home’s effortless connection to Florida living.

“Our family is spread across both Europe and the United States,” says the husband. “When everyone visits, they stay for multiple days, not just weekends. We wanted every room to invite people to gather while still feeling equally comfortable when it’s just us two.”

For the designers, the homeowners’ confidence in the creative process proved invaluable. “One of the greatest joys was the trust they placed in us,” says French. “They gave us the freedom to create a home that genuinely reflects their lifestyle and appreciation for craftsmanship.”

The homeowners agree. “Watching each room come together was incredibly rewarding,” says the wife. “The house doesn’t simply look beautiful; it feels like our home.”

Story Credits:

Interior Design by Heather & Matt French, French & French Interiors, Santa Fe, NM

Construction by Mathias Mey, Humble & Kind Building Contractors, St. Petersburg, FL

Text by Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Jenna Peffley, Santa Fe, NM

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