When a couple asked their real estate agent to recommend a designer for their new condo on Siesta Key, she didn’t hesitate in pointing them toward Carrie Riley, a well-respected tastemaker who’s been based in Sarasota for more than 30 years.
Upon setting foot in the residence, Riley immediately knew what her approach to the interiors would be. “The stunning water views are the focal point of the residence,” she says. “We just had to create the interior canvas for the living spaces.”
That modest “just” doesn’t do justice to what Riley accomplished. The 4,500-square-foot apartment makes the most of its prime location with serene interiors that frame the vistas of the Gulf as if they’re oil paintings. “We set out to achieve a sense of coastal tranquility,” says Riley. “The space is open and airy, and there’s a vibe that feels inviting and peaceful.”
Much of that serenity has to do with Riley’s chosen palette, a mix of white and other neutrals that infuse the calm the designers and homeowners were looking for. These restrained colors set an ideal backdrop for the organic textures layered throughout: linen, cotton, blond woods, and sand-colored tile. “The main idea with the materials we chose was to create dimension and visual interest,” says Riley. Those tactile qualities are certainly present in the wall that surrounds the TV set and electric fireplace. Installed by a mill carpenter, the millwork mural features three-dimensional pieces of engineered woods that introduce a kinetic embellishment in the room, yet one that’s attuned to the hushed aura of the home.
When it came to furniture, and seating in particular, the goal was to create both intimate conversation settings for social gatherings and full-on relaxing nooks for family time. In the first category, a seating area off the main living room features a grouping of four Bernhardt armchairs ready to swivel and take in the water view. Facing the TV and fireplace, a U-shaped sectional by Vanguard is tailor-made for low-key movie nights or any other such activity.
The placid nature of the residence continues into its more private quarters. The primary bedroom, which appears to float above water as a result of its floor-to-ceiling windows, maintains the neutral palette established earlier, albeit it with gray tones. “We wanted this space to feel soothing both in the morning and at night,” says Riley. “That’s why it’s layered in comfort.” Not far from the bed, a lounge nook that’s ideal for coffee to start the day or sunset cocktails at the end of it completes Riley’s desired effect.
Once completed, the home checked all the boxes of both designer and clients. “The homeowners adore it, and they mention how peaceful the place is every time I speak to them,” says Riley. “They say they feel like they live in a beachfront resort. You can’t get a better endorsement than that.”
Story Credits:
Interior Design by Carrie L. Riley, Riley Interior Design, Sarasota, FL
Text by Florian Jourin
Photography by Tara Correa, Sarasota, FL
Open to see Interior Design Sources:
Sources
Conversation Area
Club chairs – Bernhardt
Cocktail table – Palecek
Chandelier – Modern Forms
Area rug – Designed by Riley Interior Design, Sarasota, FL
Living Room
Sectional sofa, cocktail table, and stools – Vanguard Furniture
Sofa back table – Designed by Riley Interior Design, Sarasota, FL
Chandelier – LyteWorks
Wallcovering – Designed by Riley Interior Design, Sarasota, FL
Kitchen
Pendant and lineal lighting – LyteWorks
Primary Bedroom
Bed and headboard, bedside chests, and bench – Vanguard Furniture
Chandelier and lamps – LyteWorks
Lounge seating and ottomans – Century Furniture
Area rug – Designed by Riley Interior Design, Sarasota, FL
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