Published in ELLE Croatia

Take a Look Inside a Luxury Villa Built on Former Marshland

Would you guess that this home stands on land that was once a swamp? Here’s how this renovated luxury residence in Florida looks today.

Former mangrove wetlands have been transformed into a residential paradise that perfectly blends coastal charm, contemporary design, and the warmth of a family home.

Just steps from the Gulf of Mexico, in one of the most prestigious parts of Naples, Florida, stands an elegant vacation home that seamlessly combines seaside charm with modern architecture and comfortable living. The residence is located between the well-known neighborhoods of Aqualane Shores and Port Royal, areas now synonymous with luxury villas and an exclusive lifestyle.

These neighborhoods were developed in the late 1940s and 1950s on land that once consisted of mangrove swamps. Over time, the modest mid-century homes that originally stood here were replaced by impressive, carefully designed architectural residences. One such home now belongs to a charming couple who divide their time between Florida and Wisconsin.

The owners spend half the year in sunny Naples and the rest in Wisconsin, accompanied by their golden retriever. The five-bedroom house was designed to comfortably host the entire family—including adult children and grandchildren who visit often. While spacious enough for large gatherings, it also functions perfectly as a peaceful retreat when only the couple is home.

An Interior Inspired by Coastal Style

The design story of this house began earlier, as the homeowners and the designer had already collaborated on another project in Naples. Over time they developed a shared aesthetic language, and this home became a natural continuation of that partnership.

Because both the owners and the designer share a love for the color blue, it appears throughout the interior—from fabrics and rugs to decorative details. The exterior architecture references the classic Nantucket style, and that same atmosphere subtly carries into the interior. The result is a space that radiates relaxed coastal elegance while still feeling like a warm, livable family home.

A Design Challenge That Delivered the Best Results

When the owners purchased the house, it was already under construction by a local developer, and another designer had completed the basic interior elements such as flooring, tiles, and installations. The homeowners then invited their longtime collaborator to take over the final decorative phase—selecting furniture, wallpaper, and lighting.

Although the collaboration with the previous designer had been very professional, continuing an already-started project carried a certain responsibility. The goal was to build upon the existing concept and fully realize the potential of the space. In the end, this approach resulted in a cohesive and thoughtfully designed interior.

Art and design pieces also play an important role in giving the home its character. The owners are enthusiastic collectors of works by American artist Mark Mulhern, whose paintings occupy prominent places on several walls throughout the house.

Lighting was given special attention as well. In the living room, an elegant silk lampshade by Fortuny stands out, while above the dining table hangs a striking chandelier designed by American designer Gregorius Pineo. The interior is further enriched with furniture from Alfonso Marina of Mexico City, known for exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design.

Relaxed Elegance as a Way of Life

The home’s palette of colors, patterns, and materials was carefully curated to create a comfortable and functional environment for the whole family. No room was designed as untouchable—children and pets are always welcome here. At the same time, the entire house maintains a sense of relaxed elegance that reflects how much the owners value thoughtful design and quality living.

When the project was completed, the homeowners had an emotional reaction. Even though they had been involved in every decision—from materials to the smallest details—the impact of seeing the finished home for the first time was even more powerful.

The house was completed in 2023 after two and a half years of construction. The owners were so pleased with the result that they have already started another project with the same designer: a lake house in the northern United States. If this coastal residence is any indication, it’s a collaboration that will produce many more inspiring interiors.

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