Vibrant Hyde Park Home Hits All the Right Tones

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When parenthood set in for a Miami couple, the urge to move closer to family took over. Before long, they decided on Hyde Park in the wife’s native Tampa, a neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, timeless appeal, and sense of community. During their house hunt, the couple’s keen eye for design and architecture eventually led them to purchase a 1927 Mediterranean-style home and commit to an ambitious restoration.

“The property had been renovated 10 years prior but still needed some thoughtful updates to achieve the open-concept lifestyle the clients envisioned,” says interior designer Shannon Lazic, owner of Steele Street Studios, who, along with her partner, Blair Kersenbrock, were hired by the couple to implement a complete overhaul. “We collaborated with the homeowners to refine the existing layout, opening the kitchen and family room to create a seamless connection, and then linking the front sitting room to the library for a more open flow.”

The couple’s wish list called for inviting spaces rich in color but not overly modern. With no architect involved in the project, the design team intuitively curated sculptural furniture pieces in bold hues and designed an array of custom elements throughout. The owners’ deep appreciation for millwork and cabinetry became a cornerstone of the project—from unique built-ins to more design-forward architectural details. “Because this home was originally built in 1927, it was essential that every new addition felt connected to its architectural roots,” notes Lazic. “We achieved that balance by keeping the lines and profiles of the millwork transitional, while allowing color and texture to introduce a more modern sensibility.”

In the living room, the clients insisted on functional storage with shelving to showcase personal items and family photos, but not in a way that would make the design feel overly cluttered. In response, the design duo incorporated hidden compartments behind color-blocked doors in a range of bright blues and greens that blended fluently with the overall palette. Their primary goal was creating an environment that felt generous, relaxed, and effortlessly livable. Because they have a large extended family who loves to get together, the owners wanted a home with room to grow. “We layered rich materials and textured finishes and grounded each space with warm wood tones to add depth and dimension,” says Lazic. “The result is an aesthetic that feels modern and curated, yet inviting and full of life.”

An over-the-top library proved to be one of the most alluring rooms in the house—an inspiring, vibrant space custom-designed for the whole family to enjoy. “With two small children, reading together is a cherished part of the family’s routine,” says Lazic, “so we set out to design a room that felt sophisticated yet inviting. The white oak millwork provided a warm, neutral backdrop that allowed the spines and covers of the books to create the color story.”

Integrated lighting added a soft layer of ambiance, while slanted lower shelves offer both a striking display for coffee table books and an easy way for the children to reach their favorites. In hindsight, one of the design team’s favorite details is a built-in banquette with a marble game table, a cozy spot for the family to gather for games, puzzles, and fun moments together.

“What we loved most about this project was the confidence our clients placed in us,” says Lazic. “They gave us the freedom to explore ideas that felt curated and personal, yet still livable and approachable. That trust allowed the design to evolve naturally and become a true reflection of the family who lives in this home.”

Story Credits:

Interior Design by Shannon Lazic & Blair Kersenbrock, Steele Street Studios, Orlando, FL

Text by Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Gabriel Volpi, Miami, FL

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