Ponte Vedra Beach remodel
The salty breeze reveals secrets through the marsh grass, carrying the echoes of laughter and family gatherings. This idyllic scene unfolds on the shores of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where a once-ordinary 1950s ranch home has undergone a remarkable transformation. But the path to paradise wasn’t always smooth, as Studio M Interior Design founder Marsha Faulkner reveals.
A Collaboration of Visions: Modern Design Meets Treasured Memories
The story begins with a couple seeking to breathe new life into their beachfront haven. They envisioned a modern, fresh design that embraced the home’s original character. Together, Marsha, the architect, and the client duo embarked on a collaborative journey fueled by mutual trust and a shared sense of humor.
An Unforeseen Test: A Crumbling Facade Reveals Hidden Weaknesses
As the project unfolded, a dramatic turn of events would change the course of this build. During demolition to prepare for the second-story addition, an unwitting crane mishap caused the original structure to collapse. While heartbreaking for the clients, this incident exposed a hidden weakness in the aging home. Instead of a setback, it became a blessing in disguise. The contractor rebuilt the entire structure from the foundation up, ensuring a sturdier, safer haven that could withstand the elements for generations to come.
A Design Masterpiece: Ocean Views and Upside-Down Living
Emerging from the ashes rose a stunning two-story masterpiece. Stepping up to the second floor, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking panorama. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls showcase the expansive ocean views. This “upside-down” design concept places the living area, kitchen, and dining room on the top floor, maximizing the captivating coastal scenery. Downstairs, nestled in the privacy of the first floor, lie the bedrooms – an ideal retreat after a day spent soaking up the sun.
A Touch of Glamour Meets Coastal Comfort
The kitchen, a haven for the client, a self-proclaimed “glamour girl,” shimmers with personality. Brass accents, a gleaming pewter and brass stove hood, and light fixtures resembling strings of pearls add a touch of undeniable sparkle. Wide-plank white oak and walnut flooring provide a foundation of warmth throughout the home, while cove lighting on the second floor and strategically placed chandeliers create a sophisticated ambiance.
A Stairway of Innovation and Experimentation
The staircase, a sculptural focal point, reflects the project’s collaborative spirit. Originally envisioned with poured concrete steps, it evolved into a stunning blend of wood treads and a unique curved concrete base. Experimentation with various concrete stains yielded a perfect finish for the home’s design and the surrounding landscape.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Touches
Adding a layer of sentimentality, the design seamlessly integrates the couple’s existing art and antiques. From a brightly colored Chinese lacquer chest to a wall showcasing family photos, these treasured pieces soften the modern aesthetic and personalize the space.
Embracing the Elements: Sustainable Beauty
The home’s exterior boasts Ipe wood, a sustainable choice known for its durability in beachfront environments. Over time, its rich brown hue will gracefully transition to a silvery patina, further blending with the coastal tapestry.
A Jewel Box of Bold Design: The Powder Room
No detail is left unnoticed in this stunning remodel. The powder room, a dramatic departure from the home’s light and airy aesthetic, is a bold statement piece. Imagine stepping into a world of shimmering darkness. Mirrored walls create an illusion of endless space, while a touch of glamour is added with antique bronze glass and herringbone patterned tiles. A black and gold leopard-spotted wall covering completes the dramatic transformation, making this a powder room unlike any other.
The luxurious touches extend beyond the walls. A captivating gold glass sink gleams in the center of the vanity, catching the light and adding a touch of opulence. Above the sink, a stunning rose quartz sconce provides both illumination and a unique design element, further solidifying the powder room’s status as a jewel box of bold design.
A Dream Realized: From Nightmare to Forever Home
This Ponte Vedra Beach remodel stands as a testament to resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to exceeding expectations. It’s a story of how an unforeseen challenge transformed into a fortuitous twist, ultimately leading to the creation of a forever home that perfectly reflects the client’s personality and embraces the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape.
