Interior Appeal Fall 2025

Flip this over to enjoy the September/October issue of Orange Appeal!

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BELGIAN MODERN

Located in Windermere on a large lakeside property, the house was originally built for a famous baseball player but was not suitable for the new owners who were not in a hurry to get exactly what they wanted. The entire process spanned about three years. Designer Jose J. Cabrera, C L Studio, Inc., took inspiration from the floors, sourced by Trinity Tile from Belgium, and they became the base for the overall design.

40 BEAUTIFULLY LIVABLE

This entry in the Greater Orlando Builders Association’s 2025 Parade of Homes started with a big challenge — how to create a beautifully livable house on a lot that was only 50-feet wide. But with a good eye and assessment of the owner’s needs, designer Rikhil Amin was able to give her what she envisioned. They ultimately decided to go with a very transitional, yet warm look.

44 LEVELING UP

Known for infusing glam into plain spaces, designer Audrey Morrone, Morrone Interiors, took a plain, bland box and made it into a woman’s dream downsize. The biggest concern was making the best use of space and adding storage. At the end of the fairly short, four-month project, both women were very happy with the results.

cover: Living area designed by Jose J. Cabrera, C L Studio, Inc., and photographed by Gil Levy, Framed Listings. Article on page 34.

6 FIRST LOOK

Passionate about paint, Tony Piloseno decided to start his own business, Tonester Paints, to create an experience.

8 CREATIVE COLLAB: DESIGNER SHOWCASE

2025 Designer Showcase — An Extraordinary Exhibition of Art and Interior Design was a creative collaboration of design professionals — Kim Lummus, Andrew McGovern, Kelly McFall and Lindsay Matteioni – and Solana Fine Art in Winter Park, supported by Interior Appeal.

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TRADE SECRETS

Many homeowners find the process of buying art intimidating and confusing, causing them to be indecisive and unsure. We asked the experts, including Russell Glotfelty, AXIOM

Fine Art Consulting, Bob Jimenez, Solana Fine Art, and artist Mark Pulliam for their take on this common design dilemma.

21 EYE ON ARTS

A sneak peek of upcoming exhibits at the Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando Museum of Art, Art & History Musuems of Maitland, The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, Rollins Museum of Art, and The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

30 ROOM BY ROOM

Designers showcase their work and discuss the details and inspirations behind these stunning spaces.

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Christi Ashby christi@orangeappeal.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR & PUBLISHER Kate Slentz kate@orangeappeal.com

OPERATIONS & ADMINISTRATION

Wendy Tramell wendy@orangeappeal.com

CIRCULATION CONSULTANT Mollie O’Shea

BUSINESS MANAGER Robert Ashby

ADVERTISING SALES advertising@orangeappeal.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Aaron Flores, AF Imaging Howell Productions, Florida Home Photo Gil Levy, Framed Listings

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Rita Tyrrell

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Copyright 2025. No materials may be reproduced without permission. Please do not send unsolicited articles or photographs. Publisher not responsible for individual opinions contained herein.

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passion-fueled paint

As a college senior, Tony Piloseno, passionate about paint, worked part time at Sherwin-Williams. Between helping customers, he began sharing TikTok videos of the mesmerizing paint-mixing process and his account soon amassed more than a million views. He ultimately decided to start his own business — Tonester Paints. But it wasn’t just about selling paint — it was about creating an experience. Now, he is shipping thousands of gallons across the country and opening his first retail location in Orlando. His plans include expanding into Europe, collaborating with designers, and crafting more custom colors. tonesterpaints.com

CREATIVE COLLAB

2025 DESIGNER SHOWCASE

2025 Designer Showcase — An Extraordinary Exhibition of Art and Interior Design, was a creative collaboration of design professionals and Solana Fine Art in Winter Park, supported by Interior Appeal. This first display event featured four creatives who transformed gallery spaces into inviting and inspiring vignettes, incorporating artworks of their choice from the large selection of pieces to enhance their vision. Conceived by Bob Jimenez, founder and gallerist of Solana Fine Art, the concept offered gallery guests the opportunity to experience how art can be incorporated into their homes. The vignettes were revealed at an opening reception before a six-week exhibit.

Coastal Elegance

Kim Lummus, Kim Lummus Interiors

“My inspiration for the space was the bright, vibrant colors of the Florida coastline, with an emphasis on letting their vibrancy shine among the clean-lined backdrop of the furnishings.”

The furnishings are from Four Hands. Pillows are Schumacher and pillow trim is Samuel and Sons.

designerSHOWCASE

Pattern & Texture

Andrew McGovern, ASM Interiors

“Our vision was to craft a versatile space that one could envision in any corner of their home, tailored to individual lifestyle. Whether it serves in a cozy library or reading nook, a lounge area in the primary bedroom, or an inviting living space for entertaining, the design could adapt to a variety of individual needs. We aimed to showcase beauty in mixing patterns and textures, illustrating how they can transform a room. By thoughtfully combining different patterns and textures, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels both cozy and still sophisticated. We did this through bold patterns and colorways, but the same principles apply with tone on tone or in a more neutral and calming palette.”

Fabric and accessories sourced from: Kravet, Schumacher, Currey & Company, Lee Industries, Polished and L’Objet.

designerSHOWCASE

Beholding Beauty

Lindsay Matteoni, Allied ASID, MSTRStudio

“With nearly 24 years of experience as a professional interior designer and muralist, my commitment to the design industry has only strengthened. Supporting Bob Jimenez and Solana Fine Art was a true privilege. I value Bob and was grateful for the design opportunity.

For my vignette, I was drawn to the portrait because of her beauty. Much like the Mona Lisa, there’s an unspoken mystery behind her eyes. I envisioned an elevated lounge sanctuary made of rich navies, deep ebony and brilliant golds to help showcase her stunning features.

As an industry partner, cultivating meaningful relationships is vital to elevating any design aesthetic. MSTR Studio was grateful to have partnered with three highly esteemed local businesses to create this one-of-a-kind vignette. Many thanks to Slone Brothers Furniture of Longwood, Knight Flooring of Winter Park and LBU Lighting of Winter Park for your support in bringing this vignette to life.”

designerSHOWCASE

Luxe Escape

Kelly McFall, Artisan Kitchen & Bath Gallery

“Being the head of a major kitchen and bath showroom, Artisan Kitchen and Bath Gallery, I chose to create a luxurious and sexy bath vignette. With blacks, oranges and golds, I created an escape from a stressful day to a pampering and relaxing experience. I fell in love with the artwork at Solana Fine Art, which complemented my vision.

I am honored that I had the opportunity to share my love of fine fixtures and beautiful art. Thank you to Bob Jimenez for the invitation to participate. A special thanks to Natalia Poveda of Angela Neel interiors for her expertise in accessorizing and making this vignette so special.”

PRO TIPS FOR SELECTING ART FOR YOUR HOME

Many homeowners find the process of buying art intimidating and confusing, causing them to be indecisive and unsure. We asked the experts for their take on this common design dilemma.

RUSSELL GLOTFELTY, PRESIDENT & CEO, AXIOM FINE ART

CONSULTING

1. Let the Space Speak First. Before selecting artwork, consider the architectural tone and materiality of the space. Whether it’s a light-filled coastal retreat or a moody metropolitan penthouse, AXIOM advises choosing pieces that echo the energy, rhythm and texture of the room itself.

2. Think in Layers, Not Just Walls. Great collections unfold like a narrative. Combine statement works with more intimate pieces, and don’t be afraid to mix mediums — sculpture, photography and works on paper can enrich a room’s visual conversation far beyond a single canvas.

3. Curate for Emotional Resonance. Art isn’t just decorative— it should stir something. AXIOM encourages clients to select works that evoke emotion or spark dialogue. Whether it’s tranquility, tension, nostalgia or curiosity, art should reflect the emotional undercurrent of the home.

4. Honor the Dialogue between Art and Design. AXIOM collaborates with many of the top designers in North America, and believes the best results happen when artwork and interiors are curated in tandem. The goal? Pieces that feel like they were meant to be there — not added after the fact.

5. Consider Scale and Breathing Room. Size matters. AXIOM often advises clients to go slightly larger than they might initially consider — especially in modern homes with generous wall real estate. But just as important is leaving enough negative space around each work to allow it to breathe and be fully appreciated.

MARK PULLIAM, PULLIAM FINE ART

Local artist Mark Pulliam has spent more than 30 years partnering with interior designers and their clients, creating art for projects of all sizes and styles. While each project is unique, these tips apply across the board.

1. It’s Personal. Ideally you are drawn to pieces because of an emotional connection to the art or the artist or you’re just thrilled by how the piece elevates your space.

2. Framing Matters. The right framing can bring almost any style of art into harmony with the rest of your room. This is as true for contemporary commissioned pieces as it is for that piece your parents found on their honeymoon 40 years ago.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Go Big. One large piece can deliver more energy and impact than a gallery wall of smaller pieces (just make sure it’s a piece you love!)

BOB JIMENEZ, FOUNDER & GALLERIST, SOLANA FINE ART

1. Start with What You Love. Art is personal. Choose pieces that resonate with you emotionally or intellectually — art that sparks a memory, stirs curiosity, or simply brings you joy. When you love what you live with, it never goes out of style.

2. Think Beyond the Wall Color. While it’s tempting to match art to your décor, great art transcends your paint palette. Instead, think of your space as a backdrop for a meaningful collection — one that evolves over time and reflects your story.

3. Mix Mediums and Styles. Don’t be afraid to blend contemporary works with more traditional pieces or to pair paintings with sculpture, photography or works on paper. The contrast can bring depth and energy to your space.

4. Support Living Artists. When possible, invest in original work from emerging and mid-career artists. Not only are you enriching your environment — you’re supporting a creative life and a growing artistic community.

5. Take Your Time. Building a collection is a journey, not a race. Visit galleries, attend exhibitions, ask questions, and live with art before committing to it. The right piece will speak to you — and when it does, you’ll know.

UPCOMING EXHIBITION:

MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART

Juan William Chávez: Art Pollination

Opening October 10

Juan William Chávez: Art Pollination presents the social practice of artist Juan William Chávez, rooted in his holistic view of aesthetics, ecology, ritual, craft, labor, activism, and his Peruvian heritage. Showcased in the exhibition is a multi-media installation featuring drawings, embroidery, zines, artifacts, and ephemera that reflect a specific archaeology of place and how that place mines creativity through the pollination of art and ideas.

As a Guggenheim Fellow, Chávez is an artist, activist, educator and beekeeper of Indigenous Latinx and Irish descent. His bilingual (English and Spanish) exhibition presents a multifaceted artist who integrates aesthetics, garden cultivation, indigenous thought and local histories into various forms of art that address crucial themes. Art Pollination focuses on sharing work and ideas as pollinators of art and well-being, rooted in notions of generosity.

This exhibition is part of the City of Orlando’s 2025 Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge project, Art Pollination: Building Food Justice through Creativity, which aims to use art to raise awareness about food insecurity and promote solutions to the problem through public art activations and workshops that dialogue about food justice. The concept of creative art pollination is deeply rooted in Chávez’s practice and within the City of Orlando community. This collaborative public art project showcases the significant work being done to combat food insecurity and highlights these efforts through artistic endeavors. mennellomusuem.org

UPCOMING EXHIBITION:

THE ALBIN POLASEK MUSEUM

& SCULPTURE GARDENS

Mosaic Arts International 2025, Timeless Mosaics presented by the Society of American Mosaic Artists

Through December 7

The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens’ upcoming exhibition in collaboration with the Society of American Mosaic Artists (SAMA), Mosaic Arts International 2025, Timeless Mosaics presented by the Society of American Mosaic Artists, provides a comprehensive exploration of mosaic art and its contemporary relevance within the 5,000-year history of mosaics.

From ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces, the history of mosaic art is a tapestry woven with cultural significance, artistic innovation and enduring craftsmanship. The juried exhibit will include established and emerging artists, presenting the best in contemporary fine art mosaics from SAMA’s diverse international membership.

Chosen works will celebrate artists whose work embodies the diversity of the mosaic medium and its limitless applications encompassing fine art, architectural, community and site-specific mosaics. This exhibition will be a key feature of the 25th annual SAMA conference, taking place from October 29 to November 1 in Orlando. This year, SAMA (americanmosaics.com) is celebrating 25 years as a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, inspiring and promoting excellence in the mosaic arts with its worldwide membership. The exhibition will be on display through December 7 and will include artist talks, workshops, and educational lectures led by SAMA. polasekmuseum.org

On page 2, contents: JoLynn Forman, Chalk Memories and Daydreams

EYEonARTS

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS:

ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART

To Catch a Dream: Florida Watercolor Society 54th Annual Exhibition

Opens September13

The exhibition includes 100 watercolors by Florida Watercolor Society members selected by distinguished juror, award-winning watercolor artist Matthew Bird, whose work has been featured in major art magazines.

Juvenile in Justice Opens September 26

Juvenile In Justice presents a powerful photographic exploration of youth incarceration in the United States as seen through the lens of Richard Ross. Through stark, intimate images and first-person testimonies, this exhibition exposes the realities faced by minors caught within a punitive justice system, often before they are old enough to vote, drive, or be heard.

Through this powerful collection of images, interviews, audio and texts drawn from the lives of more than 1,500 individuals at 300 sites across 35 states, Ross’s goal is to provide tools to aid in a better understanding of the needs, policies, strategies and resources required to facilitate better outcomes for the 26,000+ children in custody every day.

Jason Chin: Your Place in the Universe Through November 30

Jason Chin (American, born 1978) has written and illustrated award-winning children’s books, including Redwoods, Grand Canyon, and Your Place in the Universe. With a love for scientific wonders, he has illuminated the mysteries of coral reefs, redwood trees, the Galápagos Islands, gravity, and the elemental particles that make us who we are.

Delightfully, we find ourselves swept into ocean waves, hiking cliffs above ancient trails, and untangling the enigma of DNA as Jason Chin’s questions become our own wild adventures. This exhibition was organized by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, Abilene, Texas. omart.org

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS:

ART & HISTORY MUSEUMS OF

MAITLAND

Isobel Francisco: Pangarap: Espero Reimagined

Opens October 18

Pangarap, which means dream or vision in Filipino, transforms The Maitland Art Center gallery into a canvas of speculative storytelling under Filipino artist Isobel Francisco’s guidance. Drawing inspiration from Jules André Smith’s pivotal decision to establish an artist colony in Florida, Francisco envisions an alternate reality where Smith’s path leads instead to 1937 Philippines. Through a collection of fictional artifacts, iconographies and artworks, the exhibition invites viewers to ponder the intriguing parallels and contrasts between this imagined scenario and the museum’s own rich history. artandhistory.org

ROLLINS MUSEUM OF ART

Portrait of a Movement: A New Approach to the Bloomsbury

Group

Through January 4

At its core, Bloomsbury was a conversation—an artistic and intellectual dialogue that blurred the boundaries between painting and literature, criticism and creation. The Rollins Museum of Art holds an extensive collection of works by members of this collective, including Vanessa Bell, Roger Fry, Duncan Grant, and Walter Richard Sickert. Portrait of a Movement: A New Approach to the Bloomsbury Group celebrates the debut of Fry’s Summer in the Garden (1911), a significant portrait of Vanessa Bell, recently acquired by the museum and displayed in the United States for the first time. rollins.edu/rma

EYEonARTS

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS:

THE CHARLES HOSMER MORSE MUSUEM OF AMERICAN ART

Breaking Tradition: Distinguishing American Stained Glass

Opens October 14

In the 19th century, opalescent glass introduced an entirely new painterly and naturalistic aesthetic to the stained-glass industry in America. Artists at the forefront of the opalescent era, such as Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848–1933) and John La Farge (1835–1910), pioneered new techniques for coloring and forming glass, innovations which shaped public taste and distinguished American stained glass from its European counterparts. Breaking Tradition explores this dramatic shift and the ways artists adopted and broke from convention to redefine a centuriesold medium.

Tiffany Art Glass

Opens October 14

Louis Comfort Tiffany’s art glass pieces, introduced to the public in 1893, were an avenue for his most innovative and daring experiments in glass. By the turn of the century, Tiffany (1848–1933) and his artisans were experts of technique, producing nearly any texture, color or form. This installation brings together examples of the artist’s mastery of textured effects, from smoothly cut Agate glass to pitted and organic Lava glass. morsemuseum.org

Vase © 1907. Agate; blown glass; Tiffany Studios, New York City, 1902–32 (66-011).

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

Window © 1897. Joseph Briggs house, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey; leaded glass, quartz pebbles; Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company, New York City, 1892–1902 (58-016). The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

ROOM by ROOM

Area designers share details about some of their favorite rooms.

LIVING ROOM

Part of a recently completed 20,000-square-foot home in Isleworth, this space perfectly balances luxury with warmth. The striking stonework, gold-accented fireplace, intricate ceiling design, statement lighting, rich wood flooring, and plush seating come together to create an inviting yet refined aesthetic.

FARINA & SONS, INC.

ROOM by ROOM

KITCHEN

This stunning kitchen designed for an Orlando rental property blends elegance with functionality. The oversized island with a natural stone top encourages gathering, perfect for large groups. Custom cabinetry in rich navy and soft white tones pairs beautifully with the dramatic range hood and statement lighting. A full-height stone backsplash adds natural texture and visual depth behind the cooktop. Every detail, from the built-in storage to the curated styling, speaks to refined comfort and modern luxury.

CABINETRY: S&W KITCHENS, KRISTA AGAPITO | DESIGN: MCNALLY DESIGN, DEBBY DEARTH

BUILD: MCNALLY CONSTRUCTION

by Rickie Agapito

BELGIAN MODERN

INTERIOR DESIGN: Jose J. Cabrera, C L Studio, Inc.

BUILDER: Chris Barnes, Verge Propertie

CUSTOM CABINETRY: Sandra Agurto, Cabinetry Creations

ART CURATION: Tangoren Holf

PHOTOGRAPHY: Gil Levy, Framed Listings

Located in Windermere on a large lakeside property, the house was originally built for a famous baseball player but was not suitable for the new owners who were not in a hurry to get exactly what they wanted. The entire process spanned about three years.

The dramatic office (opposite), anchored with two matching desks, is elevated with multiple Moldavian star lights (by Visual Comfort from Lightstyle) in three different sizes, a floor pattern incorporating the same design motif etched into the Italian porcelain, a vaulted wood-clad ceiling with beams, and distinctive backlit stone slab panels flanking the fireplace wall. The curved, gridded wall in the dining room is illuminated with a grouping of sculptural sconces — hung in opposite directions — by Kelly Wearstler for Visual Comfort from Lightstyle that serve as mood lighting in the evening.

Exterior changes included the grounds, with a horse stable and aviary, which were completely restored with a new landscape plan and fencing. Adding to the updated look, the rock-covered walls were artistically installed piece by piece. Inside, finishes were in an overdone Old World style but now feature rustic European finishes in a contemporary manner. Custom metalwork is seen throughout, even enhancing beams and columns.

The floors, sourced by Trinity Tile from Belgium, became the base for the overall design. “We called this a Belgian modern. The stone that was used on the inside floors and walls was imported. Most of the tiles are charcoal black, but we mixed in some shell stone inserts because we

For a twist in the kitchen, Jose reimagined the vent hood as three ship smokestacks, which are in front of a lit stone-slab backsplash. The clean-lined cabinets are in a micro shaker style; the live-edge wood inset on the island cascades down; and a chiseled stone sink adds a rustic touch.

The breakfast area illustrates the use of more contemporary furnishings.

wanted to create an aged effect as it might have been patched over time. The plaster that was used through the entire house, except baths which were wallpapered, is a textured finish that actually contains soil to create some imperfections. Even the ceilings are covered,” explains designer Jose J. Cabrera.

Contrasting with the age-old effects elsewhere, in the kitchen and primary bath the custom cabinetry, bronze fixtures, and countertops and backsplashes from Mystic Granite & Marble keep with more contemporary designs. “It was all labor intensive but really melds the old with the new. You can also see modern touches in the furniture,” he adds.

All the furnishings, including the art, are new and many pieces were custom. Known for curating art for clients, Jose is not a fan of matching pieces to the environment, instead letting them pop and create interest. In this case, the selected pieces are unexpected elements in the mainly neutral home.

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The colorful foyer showcases the massive art by Brian Demchak over a marigold loveseat with John Dickenson footed tables. The space sets the tone for art throughout the house.

Formerly a space filled with Christmas items, the renovation turned it into a more serene sitting area with coffered ceiling, Drew Doggett framed prints of Sable Island’s wild horses — a reference to the stables — a graphic wallcovering, and cozy suede and lambskin chairs.

Another view of the office shows the star pattern reflected in the Schumacher wallpaper, which Jose enhanced with bronze nail heads behind the upholstered chairs and paintings by America Martin.

Opposite: The main bath’s wet area encompasses the entire rotunda with a large shower and soaking tub and features a lava stone tile, by Waterworks from Trinity Tile, that has a hint of iridescence. A wall-mounted bronze faucet is above the sink bowl of lit white onyx that sits on a thick, blue-toned stone countertop.

The large painting by Charles Marklin (who owns Metro Finishes and created the wall finishes) and a museum glass cabinet that holds more of the owners’ vase collection adds personality to the dining room.

The detailed exterior reflects the European feel of the home via the stone walls with contrasting trim and a grand re-landscaped entryway.

LIVABLE Beautifully

THIS ENTRY IN THE GREATER ORLANDO BUILDERS ASSOCIATION’S 2025 PARADE OF HOMES STARTED WITH A BIG CHALLENGE — HOW TO CREATE A BEAUTIFULLY LIVABLE HOUSE ON A LOT THAT WAS ONLY 50-FEET WIDE. BUT WITH A GOOD EYE AND ASSESSMENT OF THE OWNER’S NEEDS, DESIGNER RIKHIL AMIN WAS ABLE TO GIVE HER WHAT SHE ENVISIONED.

Interior Design: RIKHIL AMIN, SMRS DESIGN

Builder: BRUCE COLE, COLE HOMES

Photography: HOWELL PRODUCTIONS, FLORIDA HOME PHOTO

Sponsors: ARTISAN KITCHEN & BATH GALLERY

AGGRESSIVE APPLIANCES

TONESTER PAINTS

“Murano chandeliers are a great way to add color, but vintage ones are very expensive and hard to find. Eicholtz had this lovely piece with a shimmery glitter within the glass, and it had this ’50s Venetian look. It adds a feel of disco glamour. It almost felt out of place but ended up the perfect anchor for the room. We added some deco-style cabinets with oak shelves above and a Venetian plaster fireplace. With the furniture, we wanted it to be simple and durable, but vibrant,” Rikhil claims.

The owner’s office in rich plum features a built-in desk.

The owner, a financial professional whose office is on Orange Avenue, was looking for the perfect bungalow close to work and central Winter Park, and we stumbled upon this lot. We studied the neighborhood and wanted to make sure we built something en vogue with the surroundings and what they would become as there is quite a bit of development going on in northern Orwin Manor,” Rikhil says.

They ultimately decided to go with a very transitional, yet warm look. “Architecturally, we kept it very safe — a little bit of brick accents and stucco in monochromatic tones. But inside, she wanted the furthest departure from that. She wanted to see color, vibrancy, mosaics, rich textiles, but didn’t want it to feel out of place — she wanted to feel comfortable in her space,” he explains.

They actually started the interior process with the foyer that sets the tone with iconic pink Gucci wallpaper. “She said I need this, and I don’t care what anyone says. This has to happen in my house, so you have to find a spot. I told her we would make it the star of the show. Instead of hanging it on the entire wall, we built frames around the width of the paper to make it look like the herons were flying through these vignettes. It lengthened the dark, narrow hallway,” he adds.

From there, it just all came together. “She loves classics so that’s where the checkerboard floor comes in, but she still likes dark and moody. So, we created her office to be a little sanctuary with dark

The foyer sets the tone with iconic pink Gucci wallpaper that the homeowner definitely wanted in the house. By framing it out, the birds appear to move through the hallway. The black and white checkerboard floor adds a classic touch in the entry.

“In the kitchen island and bar area the cabinets are a deep bronze color. So, we carried outside to the ceiling and cabinetry for indoor-outdoor connectivity.”

"I view the primary bath as a space to escape life, so I believe there should be less to mentally process in there. Neutrality is key, and that’s what I kept as a theme. This is not to say that the bathroom was boring — there are still organic tones and textures that give a spa-like feel."

plum walls with a built-in desk. We went back and forth on the color, but I convinced her to trust me. I knew darkening the space would give it depth and character. It was everyone’s favorite room. Then we commissioned a large canvas from Irma Kirveliene, an Orlando-based artist from Vilnius, Lithuania, to add a pop,” he says. In fact, he reports it was everyone’s favorite room during the Parade.

Although the home was open to visitors, it is still a work in progress and most of the upstairs was staged for the event. But the areas that were done stand out for the details. “We did the first-floor full bath with a black-and-white mosaic floor, jade walls, and glossy black subway tiles with brass accents. So, you had a good bit of drama before you even got to the main areas. That darker, more masculine color continued into the kitchen where we wrapped the cabinets in a deep, emerald color and continued the brass accents. There is marble throughout the house from India, from Brazil, wherever we could find the most durable slabs,” he explains. Several of the distinctive paint colors were created by Tony Piloseno, Tonester Paints. As the client and Rikhil continue to curate the upstairs suites, they share a mutual happiness over the stylistic direction the home is headed.

leveling UP

Interior Design: Audrey Morrone, Morrone Interiors

Photography: Aaron Flores, AF Imaging

KNOWN FOR INFUSING GLAM INTO PLAIN SPACES, AUDREY MORRONE TOOK THIS PLAIN, BLAND BOX AND MADE IT INTO A WOMAN’S DREAM DOWNSIZE.

In the detailed family room, a clever sliding door opens to a bar or the TV depending on how the space is used.

The bedroom sitting area was enhanced with new lighting and wainscotting, making it extremely elegant.

We had worked on her Winter Park home, and she was downsizing because her youngest was going off to college. When she showed us this townhouse on Lake Killarney, it was all modern and white. She wanted us to take it to the next level and be more like her personality, so it allowed us to do things like the burgundy kitchen. We basically took what was brand new and completely transformed it,” Audrey says.

The open kitchen/dining area’s multi-level expanded island is perfect for prepping as well as dinner parties.

With downsizing comes the need for storage so that was an important component to the redesigned spaces. “We redid the closets and added storage where we could. The built-in in the family room has a sliding door that lets the bar show when she is entertaining and then it can open to the other side to reveal the TV. It’s super elegant and makes it more of a mixed-use room,” she adds.

Another clever idea for the smaller space was in the open kitchen. “The way the dining room was set up before, the owner could fit a round table, but the space was a little odd. So, instead of doing that we took the kitchen island and made

it two levels in a T-shape so there is prep space or seating for eight. If she is having a dinner party, everyone is right there for a culinary experience,” she explains.

Audrey turned the main bedroom into a sanctuary wrapped in color. “The client is a doctor who sometimes works nights and needs to sleep during the day. So, we did the blackout window treatments that go wall to wall behind the bed and around the corner on the other side. She wanted a fireplace and the built-in around it is also an additional closet,” she adds.

At the end of the fairly short, four-month project, both women are very happy with the results. “When we did the kitchen design initially, we did a safer palette as well. But after the design meeting she called the next day and wanted to go with the bolder option. This was one of my favorite projects. She loves the burgundy color, and I was obsessed with it. She had sent over inspo pictures, and we pretty much incorporated everything,” Audrey concludes.