Florida Oceanfront Estate Features Water-Focused Landscape Design
Reflecting pools, lush native plants and glass-enclosed entertaining spaces set an inviting, serene tone at a luxurious oceanfront estate on Siesta Key, Fla.
By:
Beth Rucker
From:
David Young
Welcoming Water
The reflecting pool at the entrance of the estate is an attractive, tranquil water feature that matches the clean lines of the home's architecture.
From:
David Young
Bamboo Screens
Oldhamii bamboo was selected for its height to create natural walls of privacy surrounding the estate.
Palm-Lined Entrance
Palms native to Florida welcome visitors to the estate. The trees replaced overgrown invasive species.
From:
David Young
Parking for Plenty
A large motor court paved with shell-top concrete allows ample off-street parking when hosting guests.
From:
David Young
Glass Threshold
An open glass cube flanked by a pair of Chinese foo dogs serves as a threshold to the home.
From:
David Young
Pause for Reflection
A view of the reflecting pool from the glass cube offers a moment of solace before approaching the front door.
Indoor-Outdoor Entertaining
A glass-enclosed room makes use of what was once dead space beneath the home, which is raised on stilts to withstand aggressive storms. Easy access to outdoor gathering spaces makes for easy indoor-outdoor entertaining.
From:
David Young
Floating Walkways
Another pool surrounds the home's exterior, and shell-top concrete pads lure guests outside.
From:
David Young
Water Wall
The sunken spa and fire pit area is defined by a glass-clad water wall, providing a connection to the nearby ocean waters.
From:
David Young
Unencumbered Views
The second-story deck features a crow's nest tower as well as ample space for lounging or entertaining. The frameless glass safety wall edging the deck is nearly imperceptible, offering unencumbered views.
From:
David Young
Panoramic Views
The crow's nest offers panoramic views of the more than 200 feet of private Gulf of Mexico coastline enjoyed by the estate.
Private Spa
A private spa is tucked away to the side of the crow's nest tower, accessible most easily through the master suite.
From:
David Young
Postcard Perfect
The natural greenery of coconut palms frame the views from the oceanfront home.
From:
David Young
Swaying Palms
Palms aid in screening the estate from surrounding properties while adding a sense of movement to the landscaping.
Private Entry
The owner enjoys a private driveway separate of the motor court offered to guests.
From:
David Young
Labyrinth Garden
A tranquil labyrinth garden offers an invitation for contemplation.
Contemplation Through Movement or Rest
The labyrinth is surrounded by parsons benches, inviting contemplation through rest in addition to movement.
From:
David Young
Private Spa Room
Overlooking the labyrinth is another glass-enclosed room, a spa featuring a sauna and space for a massage table. Outside the spa's walls, a wall of dwarf Buddha belly bamboo creates a natural privacy screen between the room and the more public areas of the property.
Sweeping Views
The back patio area enjoys sweeping views of the private coastline.
From:
David Young
Night Reflections
As the house becomes illuminated in the evening hours, the angles of the home are reflected in the water garden.
From:
David Young
Oceanfront Sanctuary
"The homeowner wanted to create a sanctuary that was designed specifically for the way they lived," says landscape architect David Young. "Of importance was the idea of water as connectivity of the architecture and site, privacy, minimalism and experiential components that would provide enjoyment and wonder throughout the day."
From:
David Young
Storm Protection
A rock revetment protects the property from aggressive surf during storms.
