There is much to be said about the calming effects of simple and beautiful design. It takes a skillful eye and an attention to detail to design a space that puts the mind at ease and relaxes the senses. Interior Designer Debra Lysy and Architect John Cooney created an interior and exterior that flow seamlessly together to achieve a calm, quiet, and sophisticated look.
Feelings of comfort and warmth can be drawn from the glowing exterior of this 5,800-square-foot residence in the heart of downtown Olde Naples. John Cooney wanted the home to exude authentic Old Florida character and charm. “To reinforce simplicity and the casual mood of an Old Florida home, I used some of the most identifiable architectural elements from this vernacular. Historic Old Florida cottages predated air conditioning so the incorporation of high ceilings, porches and numerous windows was common. These essential elements provide relief from Florida’s sunlight and enhance indoor air circulation. The most familiar Old Florida architectural elements included in this home are wood siding, high-peaked metal gable roofs, shutters, and double–hung windows,” explains Cooney.
The formal living room was meant to be elegant while remaining casual and inviting. It is a place where you’d love to read a book or entertain guests in a comfortable atmosphere. “It’s all about a balance of the wood tones and painted finishes, which I have carefully woven together throughout the entire space,” describes Lysy. The whites, creams, butter yellows, and sprinkles of coral are all strategically placed to compliment one another.
Moving into the dining room you are quietly greeted by the same soft and creamy colors and textures from the living area. A large round table anchors the space underneath a David Iatesta chandelier.
The study follows suit with a neutral and inviting color palette. Floor-to-ceiling window treatments draw your eye up to view some of the impressive coffered ceiling details, which were painted to create contrast and visual interest.
A cream and celery palette was chosen to create a restful, peaceful, and serene setting in the master suite. The oversized chair and ottoman are intended for reading the morning paper and having a cup of coffee with a poolside view. A special dressing area was created for the homeowner with the idea of a dual-purpose space. Not only does the room accommodate all of her clothing, there is a television, writing desk, siting area, and makeup vanity.
The focal point of the master bathroom is a beautiful Swedish crystal chandelier, which rests above an elegant soaking tub. The backdrop for the entire space is a floral wallpaper accented with tile wainscoting. A mixture of brass, chrome, and crystal finishes were used throughout the space to dress it up and compliment the range of materials found in the chandelier.
Tucked away in the back left corner of the home, you will find a staircase that leads you to a spacious and private guest retreat. “The inspiration for this room was the view of the swimming pool,” expresses Lysy. This space has a more tropical and playful look than the rest of the home. The color palette is more saturated, and the wall covering is a vibrant and captivating shade of turquoise. The bold color choices are balanced with mocha accessories and natural linens.
“Lysy’s creative talents invite you to view each room and experience the application of textures, colors, fabrics, and mixed finishes,” says Vivian Armenti of Henredon.
On the opposite side of the home, the second story is inviting, expansive, and boasts three more guest suites. In comparison to the private guest retreat, the color schemes chosen are more refined and subdued. A four-poster bed accented with sheer drapery is the centerpiece for one of the guest bedrooms. The cream and sage green color palette creates a tranquil setting for this “second master.” A smaller guest room across the hall was designed to have a clean and crisp feeling. Bright whites were used to create a sharp contrast with the periwinkle blue color scheme.
“Homes designed in the Old Florida style often have a unique connection to nature, and throughout history have promoted the indoor/outdoor lifestyle of Southwest Florida,” says Cooney. The outdoor living area is an extension of the home that is perfect for entertaining. “It was always our vision to have an outdoor sectional sofa to define the space,” explains Lysy. This is a space where everyone just wants to relax, watch TV, barbecue, and dine. “The fireplace wall was originally plain stucco, and we redesigned it. We found a walling stone from the Bourgogne region of France, and I thought it was a perfect complement to the architecture,“ describes Lysy.
“A true designer blends the essence of a project with the personality of its clients. Debra Lysy captured the sophisticated coastal look of the Southwest Florida lifestyle,” adds Armenti. Every detail of this Olde Naples home works in harmony to create a feeling of casual elegance. From the expansive outdoor living spaces, to the open-style floor plan, this residence is a calming retreat that reflects the homeowner’s upscale style.
Written by Kelsey Miklavcic
Photography by Giovanni Photography
Lysy Interior Designs, LLC
10800 Corkscrew Road
Estero, FL 33928
239.269.0361
Stofft Cooney Architects
633 Ninth Street North
Naples, Florida 34102
239.262.7677
Henredon Interior Design Showroom
Miromar Design Center
10800 Corkscrew Road
Estero, FL 33928
239.390.0041
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