A Design Collaboration Leads To A Lasting Friendship

Bich and Laurie Kracum have known designer Sofia Joelsson since 2003, when they hired her to design their first Florida home on Miami’s Ocean Drive. Not only were the Kracums, who divide their time between the Midwest and Florida, pleased with the final design, they also became friends with Joelsson along the way. So, it was a no-brainer that she would design their latest home, a penthouse on Fisher Island, an exclusive enclave south of Miami.

The Kracums were ready for a quieter existence–plus, they needed a home with better accessibility, since Laurie had suffered an injury that required her to use a wheelchair. “I wanted anyone to walk in and think, above all else, ‘what a beautiful design,’” says Joelsson on her design approach.

The result? A sprawling penthouse with concrete-style floors, warm walnut accents and sleek Italian furniture by the likes of Minotti and B&B Italia. Not to mention, three outdoor terraces overlooking bustling downtown Miami.

“Sofia is a delight to work with and also a really good friend,” says Rich, who along with Laurie, is thrilled with their new home. “The process of building and the fun we had together still resonates throughout the whole place. When you walk in, you just feel good.”