Modern Blend: A Fresh Take on Old Florida Decor

Photography by Rick Bethem

Visits with her grandparents to the Gulf Coast as a child had a lasting imprint on interior designer Pat Bibbee. She fell in love with what she likes to call “Old Florida decor.” When her good friends Sharon and Tom DeWitt called on her to help them narrow down their choices for a home in Naples, she was eager to help. After a whirlwind day, they decided on a home in Grey Oaks Country Club.

Sharon and Tom DeWitt decided to work with their interior designer to brighten up their home with colors that reflect the outdoors.

Sharon and Tom DeWitt decided to work with their interior designer to brighten up their home with colors that reflect the outdoors.

Bring the Outside In

Throughout the home, the look and feel is bright and cheery. The color palette includes shades of blue, aqua, and neutrals reflected in the fabrics, furniture, and accessories.The updated family room brings the outdoors in, as a large glass wall opens to the adjoining pool and patio area.

Family room before.

Family room after.

Living Room to Dining Oasis

As you enter the house, the beautiful view leading to the outdoors is a focal point. The designer converted the former formal sitting area to a dining room. A large round table serves as the centerpiece of the space. The fireplace wall with existing cabinetry was painted and the wall units were lowered. New doors with fretwork were added to the cabinets. The coastal color palette complements the breezy feel of Southwest Florida.

Dining room before.

Dining room after.

Contrasting Kitchen

With the new dining room now closer to the kitchen, it eliminated the need for another table in the breakfast area. The designer made a significant change to the kitchen island, transforming it into a bright and inviting place to gather. Quartz countertops replaced the original darker granite.  The color of the cabinetry remained intact. However, the overhead pendant lights were replaced by a modern lamp.

Kitchen before.

Kitchen after.

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