High-Rise Remodel

    
A perfect example of what is occurring in many of Southwest Florida’s more mature high-rise condominium communities is found at Vanderbilt Gulfside Condominium, where exterior common areas, as well as residences, are sporting sophisticated new looks.

For Paul and Winifred Picher, the search for a design firm was over following a trip through Bonita Springs one afternoon when they came across K2 Design Group’s showroom on Bernwood Drive. Part-time residents of Ottawa, the Pichers soon learned that Jenny Carter, the firm’s president, studied architecture and interior design in the United States and Canada and completed her schooling at McGill University in Montreal. She and two McGill alumni architects formed Abitec, a Montreal-based design and build firm, in 1985. She moved back to Southwest Florida in 1993 to start K2 Design Group, a single-source architectural, interior design and construction management firm. After learning about the Canadian connection and reviewing work from her extensive design background, the Pichers were ready to begin the remodel that they’d dreamed of for years.
     
Retired with plenty of time to travel, they’d been talking about downsizing in Canada and using their Florida residence as a home base. Their dilemma is shared by many living in Florida’s 1970s and ’80s-era high-rise condominiums that were designed more as vacation getaways than year-round residences. Lifestyle modifications create the need for either a remodel or a new home purchase.

“We really love what we have here, and are starting to think that we no longer need as big a home in Canada,” says Winifred. “We knew what we wanted to do with this residence, but we didn’t know how to go about it.”
     
Flexible living space was high on the couple’s priority list. They wanted sleeping quarters for the occasional guest, but realized that they’d enjoy their two-bedroom residence more with a layout that included that space. Another desire was to open all rooms to gorgeous views. Prior to the transformation, guests walking into the residence stepped into a cramped entryway with a view of a wall. The kitchen was also boxed in. Some areas, such as a long lanai running the length of the residence, contained wasted space.

The guest bedroom’s function changed when its wall facing the living area was removed and sliding doors opening to its segment of the lanai were taken out. Living space was expanded onto the lanai. The newly enclosed air-conditioned area facilitated an attractive computer station. In the same area, sliding acoustical panel doors allow the space to convert — with fingertip ease — to a guest suite for the occasional visitor.

Even after the partial enclosure, the lanai is still quite generous with space for dining and reclining. The new living area is now spacious.
At the front of the residence, the entryway wall blocking the view was taken out. Guests now walk into a lovely foyer with a view of the Gulf of Mexico. Removing a wall into the kitchen presented technical considerations that led to innovative solutions. Plumbing and electrical conduit travels up either side of an attractive glass cabinet that showcases the Picher’s handcrafted blown glass collection.

The kitchen was reconfigured, which resulted in space for a peninsula with cooktop and considerable cabinetry. Serpentine granite, rich wood cabinetry in place of laminate, balanced lighting, and energy-efficient appliances create an enjoyable setting to cook and gather with friends.

The couple’s Ottawa home features traditional décor. They wanted fresh modern design in their Florida home. Cabinetry, made in Canada, features clean, straight lines. Cream-tone Spanish marble tile is used throughout. Color is introduced with artwork, stone surfaces, and custom carpets.

Throughout the home, ceilings were opened and ductwork was moved. To improve appearances and conserve space, several doors were moved and pocket doors added. The facelift opened the residence and changed the focus from walls to beautiful views. A slight wave ceiling treatment around the perimeter of the front room and in the master bedroom unifies the design, softens straight edges, and creates the illusion of depth without having to raise the ceiling. Paneling kitchen appliances with wood skins to match cabinetry lends an integrated look. Recovered living room furniture blends with the renewed interior. A much-loved, rose-tone sectional sofa, for instance, was upholstered in a cream-tone chenille.

The Picher’s home is re-energized with increased functionality and stylish looks.

“High-rise makeovers take a bit of ingenuity and K2 Design Group has completed many,” says Carter. “We won new contracts when residents in the same building saw everything that we did, and appreciated that we could completely open a two-bedroom unit.”

Celebrating a 15-year anniversary, K2 Design Group has completed upscale residential and commercial projects in Southwest Florida — from Marco Island to North Fort Myers — and throughout the United States. Internationally, the company has completed work in the Bahamas, Canada, England, Germany, Ireland and Panama.

“We have the technology and skills today to open high-rise spaces and the impression is dramatic,” Carter says. “Clever adjustments enable condominium residents to enjoy their homes so much more.”
     
By Mary Lou Smart
Photo Credit: Doug Thompson Photography

K2 Design, Inc.
25081 Bernwood Dr
Bonita Springs, Florida 34135
Toll free: 866-261-2502
Phone: 239-444-5205
www.K2Design.net
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