Key Largo Retreat

Sector

Residential

Location

Tavernier Fl. Keys

Year

2035

Design Team

Robert Barnes & Diana Tomassi

Landscape Architecture

Robert Barnes & Associates

3D Illustrations

None

Photographer

Josh Shaw

As his parents advanced in age, he bought their little Key Largo mobile home getaway to keep it in the family. Unable to ignore its deterioration over time, the owner eventually chose to demolish the mobile home and build a 3,900-square-foot contemporary modern island-style house that opens onto the water. The lot has a beautiful view of the bay looking towards the Gulf of Mexico.

The owner teamed up with building contractor Ramon Plaza, who introduced him to architect Robert Barnes. The team was eager to bring their concept of fun, family, and the Florida Keys into the home—a happy home for family get-togethers, a vacation island-style home with stunning waterfront views.

Robert, understanding the owner’s desire to honor the memories created in his parents’ home, began the design of the waterfront great room—a spacious combination of indoor and outdoor living spaces, including the dining area and kitchen. A spiral stairway was created for family and friends coming out of the water wearing wet bathing suits. They climb the stairs to their rooms or to a rooftop perch—which has a million-dollar view—without walking through the house.