To highlight the scenic lake views and make the large house fit the site, residential designer Richard Guzman tackled the challenge of designing this new 9,311-square-foot home in the Quail West community of Naples, Fla., stretching his plan to maximize the water views. “When the owners walk in the front door, they can see the lake beautifully,” says Guzman, who described the architectural style as transitional with a nod toward the West Indies.
Originally from England, the homeowners wanted a modern living design with a touch of British sophistication for their entertaining lifestyle, not to mention garage space expansive enough for their large sports car collection that includes Lamborghinis, Porsches and other racers. “We host a lot of parties and like to show off our space, so we picked a dynamic design team and quality builder, and became very involved,” the husband says.
With architectural plans in place, the team was rounded out with builder Michael Diamond and interior designer Faith Fix. During the initial collaboration arranged by Guzman, the couple opted for a clean, straight look with no curves except for an arch over the front door. “The intricate nature of the ceiling designs and interior trim detail was a welcome departure from the typical home,” Diamond says. Clean lines, earth tones and a warm, simple vibe were desired inside. “They wanted a presence with each space using walnut as the accent,” Fix says.
In the family room, intimate seating in neutral tones sets the stage for a glass-fronted gas fireplace that appears to float. “This room has bold block seating in modern silhouettes,” the designer says. “The owners wanted clean forms inside so as not to compete with the view of the outdoor social spaces and gardens beyond.”
Nearby, the casual cocktail and dining area captures the eye with a sweep of dark walnut that shapes the bar and climbs the cream-colored wall. “The bar area is playful and geometric with thick, man-made quartz countertops revealing a waterfall edge,” Fix says.
The kitchen, styled with walnut cabinetry and a simple wood beam ceiling, repeats the clean-lined design. Emphasizing the inherent beauty of geometric form, a pair of pendant lights add dimension above the breakfast bar.
Luxurious and serene, the master bath is centered by a freestanding tub that provides the ultimate in spa-like rejuvenation. A custom bronze sculpture displayed outside in the private garden offers an artistic narrative to enjoy while bathing.
Peaceful lake views provide the backdrop in the master bedroom, where the custom upholstered bed’s ultra linen-suede headboard creates a feeling of both coziness and sophistication. Layers of texture and muted shades of color complete the relaxing scheme. Nearby, an expanse of windows frames a picturesque vista to provide the perfect setting for the intimate sitting area.
With an essence of England, this winter home in Naples brought tears of joy to the owners’ eyes. “This couple wanted something different from the traditional Florida look,” Diamond says. “The interior design is unique and the home has a wonderful street presence. We couldn’t be happier to have made it all work.”
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