Focus Magazine of SWFL Swimsuit Heat Wave

Relocate, Renovate or Redecorate By Chip Krespach Southwest Florida continues to grow and as “they don’t make land anymore” the respective values of various areas and communities grow along with it. And… just like other parts of the country, waterfront properties or those close to the water seem to be the most desirous. With this basic tenet as the backdrop, the growth of Collier and Lee counties began along or near the water and moved east and north in general terms with various architecture and design trends evolving over the years. Hence, one now finds older, more mature homes and condos along the water with more contemporary communities and architecture to the east. Of course, new hurricane and building codes have helped drive the evolution but design trends clearly follow consumer demands. Homes with separate living rooms and formal dining space seem to be less popular while open concept great room floor plans featuring design elements that maximize the warm SWFL sun, endless skies and outdoor spaces, especially in the winter months are on the rise. The latest design changes seem to have the old world Tuscan influence giving way to more casual Mediterranean style spaces. The home choices are endless and ever changing. Now, for those homeowners in the more mature areas in SWFL the question becomes, “do we move to another home to take advantage of the newer designs or do we change our space?” In the same way, if you are currently searching for a property to buy, the question is the same. “Do we select a more recently built home or choose one in a mature area that can be renovated to make our own?” It seems a growing number of people are opting to update and enhance their homes to provide the more modern surroundings they seek. Let’s call it… a home facelift that creates function. I would encourage you to talk with a luxury home Realtor about which way to go. They can provide valuable insight about newer homes 7 0 FOCUS of SWFL 2014 currently on the market versus the various areas where one could purchase an older home with the intention of doing anything from a minor renovation to a complete teardown and rebuild. It can be easier than you might think. In exploring the types of things that can be done, I talked to local interior designer and principal of LDL Interiors, Lynn Lombardi. Originally from New York, Lynn has held several positions in highend design and building firms that provided her invaluable insights into the profession and the Southwest Florida market. But true to her calling to freely create, she inaugurated LDL Interiors in 1995. Lynn’s design philosophy begins with the premise that effective design starts with a conversation and she has worked with clients to create excellent casual luxury environments tailored exactly to their wants and desires. One example is this estate home in The Colony Golf & Country Club in Bonita Springs, MLS #201312857. Skillful selection of interior colors combined with select furniture and décor transformed this home into a relaxing luxury environment suited specifically to the owners taste.

Focus Magazine of SWFL Swimsuit Heat Wave | Page 70