This incredible renovation by Hughes Umbanhowar Architects required a unique design that would ultimately reduce and reimagine the original 8,000 square feet single-story home that was built in 1991.
The existing foundation was preserved, and the design grew from there, incorporating as much of the existing site as possible without sacrificing the simplicity of the design’s aesthetics.
This is especially noted as modifications were made to the original concrete shell for the installation of new windows glazed with energy efficient, state of the art insulated impact glass. The newly installed windows offer VIEW technology, causing the windows to respond intuitively to outdoor conditions and tint accordingly.
The home is located on the narrowest part of a barrier island along the Treasure Coast of Florida, which yields a spectacular view of both the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Intracoastal Waterway.
The newly reimagined space capitalizes on this site advantage by capitalizing on the vantage point with a breathtaking roof deck view. A sweeping staircase leads from the single story living level to the roof deck above revealing a large circular patio encased in glass, providing an unobstructed view of both bodies of water.
Several of the outer walls are detailed as rain-screens adorned with FSC certified wood. The west-facing water feature also serves as a cooling tower to augment the home’s geothermal HVAC system. Specifications such as these for this renovation have allowed this project to qualify for LEEDS certification.
The focal point of the south side of the U-shaped living level is a spectacular covered balcony that stretches past the three-car garage, providing shade and shelter from the weather. It also provides access to a covered walk that leads to us past the pools to the main entry point.
The home’s south side is dotted with smaller covered balconies as well as a covered porch area accessed by another staircase on the south side of the home.
The main entry to the living level is reached by way of a dramatic staircase that rises between the sparkling blue multilevel pools. On the north side of the home, two bedrooms open onto the spacious pool area. A quiet sitting area has been created on the front north corner that, while out in the open, still has a secluded atmosphere.
The interior of the living level has an open design that makes the most of the vast space available. The large living room is divided from the dining area by a partial wall that allows for both separation and inclusion with the same spaces.
Most of the rooms of this home are constructed with wall to wall sliding windows that span from floor to ceiling. These wall length windows provide the east side of the home a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean’s surf.
The clean lines of the design are expertly combined with the pre-existing curves of the original structure’s foundation. The result is a structure complex in its simplicity that has the warmth of home while remaining kind to the environment.
Design by Hughes Umbanhowar Architects.
Design by Hughes Umbanhowar Architects.
