It was all about the views for this South Florida residence. “The home backs up to the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge and has these stunning views of the estuary,” says the homeowner. “It’s what sold us on the home and allowed us to look past the other design flaws.”
Of the flaws, there were many, including the fact that the original layout obstructed the interior water views and the architectural detailing was limited, if not nonexistent, in many areas. “The home just felt unfinished and awkward,” adds the homeowner. Enter designer Jill Shevlin and architect Jeff Ray, who were able to rework the layout by combining rooms, removing walls and adding symmetry to the otherwise off-balance design, creating an interior that’s at once elegant and casual. “The layout is so much more amenable to the homeowners’ lifestyle,” says Ray. “Plus, it takes advantage of the home’s biggest draw: the estuary views.”
Post-renovation, the homeowners spend most of their time on the outdoor loggia overlooking their redesigned infinity pool, which blends seamlessly with the brackish water that winds among the mangroves. “That view, especially at sunset, is our most favorite part of the home,” the homeowner says.
