Along Vanderbilt Beach, condominiums have been selling after a proactive effort by Bonita Springs-based K2 Design Group to spruce up buildings and residences up and down Gulfshore Drive.
Vanderbilt Beach, a 1.3 mile stretch of land between a Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Delnor-Wiggins State Park, has prime beachfront real estate, much of it in high-rise towers. Upscale dining in the immediate vicinity include Baleen at La Playa Beach & Golf Resort and the Turtle Club. The intimate neighborhood even holds vestiges of Old Florida with Buzz’s Lighthouse Restaurant and Lighthouse Inn on Vanderbilt Lagoon.
The demographic most attracted to Vanderbilt Beach comprises of empty nesters in the 50-year age range, Vesci said. Whereas the traditional buyer has been a second-home buyer, high technology and the virtual office have paved the way for longer stays.
A perfect example of the what is happening 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.
Flexible living space and innovative storage solutions are high on the priority list for those wanting to turn dated vacation condos into year-round residences. In one condominium, the successful transformation of a two-bedroom layout resulted in two additional remodel contracts for K2 Design Group, a single-source architectural, interior design and construction management firm.
“The owners wanted better use of their home,” said Jenny Carter, president and principal designer of K2 Design Group.
As in the case of many homes, one of the bedrooms was rarely used. Opening that one room changes the dynamic of the entire home with increased functionality and stylish looks. To accomplish that, K2 Design Group expanded the air conditioning onto the lanai at one end of a great room and created an attractive work space, a beautiful setting to catch up on e-mail. In the same area, sliding acoustical panel doors allow the space to convert — with finger-tip ease — to a guest suite for the occasional visitor.
In the kitchen, which was opened to living areas, glass-walled cabinetry showcases the homeowner’s handcrafted blown glass collection while concealing electrical and plumbing.
“This is a dramatic change,” Carter said. “By eliminating the wall that had previously housed the electrical panel, we gained a view. Glass in the curio cabinets also allows the Gulf view to be seen from the entry.”
Throughout the home, ceilings were opened and ductwork was moved. The foyer was opened. In addition to a much-improved interior, the facelift opened the residence and changed the focus from walls to beautiful views.
Several touches incorporate existing features. A wave ceiling treatment adds interest and creates the illusion of depth without having to raise the ceiling. Paneling kitchen appliances with wood skins matching cabinetry lends an integrated look. Recovered living room furniture blends with the renewed interior.
“High-rise makeovers take a bit of ingenuity, and K2 Design Group has completed many,” Carter said. “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. Clever adjustments enable condominium residents to enjoy their homes so much more.”
When they were built in the 1980s, these beachfront residences were not about high ceilings. The entire ceiling was lowered to the depth of the duct work.
“We have the technology and skills today to open high-rise spaces and the impression is dramatic,” Carter said. “Homebuyers do not always have the vision to imagine what’s possible. For sellers, these makeovers create interest.”
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.
Sitting on 8.8 acres, the 80s-era high-rise property — 72 residences in each of two towers — is in the midst of an exterior facelift. Parking structures, entry gate and porte-cochère have been replaced. Lush landscaping has been enhanced and is receiving increased attention with a new irrigation system. Attractive pavers replaced asphalt along the winding driveway and Italian stone was installed around the pool and walkway. In addition to fresh paint, exterior balconies, railings and screens are being upgraded.
Along Vanderbilt Beach, many bought their homes more than 20 years ago for well under $200,000. In addition, many were bought as vacation homes. While the real estate appreciated considerably, the common thinking was that there was no need to spend money to fix what was not broken, especially when cosmetic improvements would be costly.
“Potential buyers have certain expectations about the amenities,” she said. “First impressions count. No matter how nice a condominium is, a buyer considering the purchase of a condominium might not even come to look if they hear that the building’s common areas are not scheduled for some kind of improvement.”
At Vanderbilt Gulfside Condominiums, sellers, homeowners and real estate agents alike are pleased with a fresh exterior and stylish interiors, said Pat Gibbs, manager.
“Our residents are thrilled that the exterior is brand new and in keeping with the upscale nature of the neighborhood,” she said. “And Realtors love it when they can show a property like this following a makeover. It generates excitement.”(source: newspress, 5-6-09)
