Rio Perdido West Bungalows / Studio Saxe

This blog post compiles a curated list of top-rated Airbnb rentals in Sarasota, Florida, offering diverse options for travelers seeking accommodations under $240 per night. The selection emphasizes charming decor, high guest ratings for cleanliness, comfort, and location, as well as essential amenities like Wi-Fi and free parking, and responsive host communication. The featured properties cater to various preferences, from beachfront retreats to tranquil country escapes. One notable listing is The Lido Beach House-Retro Studio, a mid-century modern gem on Lido Key available for $218 a night. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom studio accommodates up to three guests and boasts original turquoise bathroom tiles, terrazzo floors, and proximity to the beach, mangroves, nature trails, kayak rentals, and St. Armands Circle. Its cheerful decor and historical elements provide a distinct retro ambiance. For those preferring a historic charm near Sarasota Bay, the Cozy Cottage by the Bay is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom option for $88 a night, sleeping up to four. Located in the Indian Beach-Sapphire Shores neighborhood, this cottage offers easy access to downtown Sarasota and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, with two bikes provided for exploring the oak-shaded streets. The Zen House in Downtown Sarasota, priced at $220 a night, is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental for up to four guests. Situated in the artistic Towles Court neighborhood, it features wood floors and country-style touches. Its second-floor location offers views of old oak trees, and its design elements, including darker colors, stone, and bamboo, contribute to its serene atmosphere, placing guests within walking distance of local restaurants and shops. A beach-centric option is the Siesta Key Village rental, offering two bedrooms and one bathroom for up to six guests at $110 a night. Located in the Calle Minorga complex, it provides quick access to Siesta Key Beach and the vibrant Siesta Key Village, complete with a heated community pool and a private patio with a grill. The Exquisite Refurbished 1920s Bungalow, centrally located in Sarasota, is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home for up to five guests, costing $113 a night. This historic bungalow features a wide front porch with a swing and a private backyard. It is conveniently close to the Pinecraft Amish and Mennonite community, Arlington Park, and both downtown Sarasota and the beaches. Casa Azul in Bayou Oaks offers two bedrooms and one bathroom for up to four guests at $106 a night. This home, situated in a tranquil, tree-lined neighborhood, features windows overlooking a creek and a fenced-in back patio. Its bright interior with dark wood floors and bold color accents provides a lively yet peaceful retreat, near the Ringling Museum and downtown. For a rural escape, The Guesthouse near Lakewood Ranch is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom property for up to four guests, priced at $113 a night. This guesthouse offers quiet country living with pond views on five acres, located approximately 15 minutes from Lakewood Ranch's shops and restaurants, and 40 minutes from the beaches. Activities such as picking produce at Hunsader Farms and bird watching at Celery Fields are nearby. Another mid-century modern choice is a Central Sarasota bungalow, a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home for up to four, at $124 a night. This renovated 1962 home features terrazzo floors and original pink bathroom tiles. It is conveniently located near the Pinecraft neighborhood and Yoder’s market, with beaches about a 15-minute drive away. The Boho Chic apartment in Arlington Park, priced at $233 a night, offers two bedrooms and one bathroom for up to five guests. This stylish ground-floor apartment is near Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Southside Village, allowing easy access to gourmet restaurants, bars, boutiques, and nearby Harbor Acres. The decor features relaxing wallpaper patterns and updated, fun styles. Finally, the 1935 Artist Cottage Close to Siesta Key Beach, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental for up to six guests at $110 a night, exudes a beachy vibe. This updated cottage features a hat-decorated wall, a wave mural, and a fenced-in backyard with a fire pit and volleyball net, making it ideal for a fun, artistic getaway just a short distance from Siesta Key Beach. Overall, the selection provides a comprehensive guide for visitors to Sarasota, highlighting the distinct features and conveniences of each Airbnb property to ensure a pleasant and memorable stay. #SarasotaAirbnbs #VacationRentals #FloridaTravel #LidoKey #SiestaKey #MidCenturyModern #HistoricHomes #TravelGuide #Accommodation

The Rathnelly House, an Edwardian-era semi-detached dwelling located in midtown Toronto, underwent a comprehensive and formally expressive renovation by Studio VAARO. The project aimed to significantly enhance functionality, spatial fluidity, and overall living space while meticulously respecting the existing footprint of the building. The clients, a professional couple with a young child, sought both practical and aesthetic improvements, including an increase in usable floor area, elevated ceiling heights, and expanded storage solutions. The design objective was to create a welcoming and distinctive environment that balanced open communal areas with private, secluded spaces. Extensive structural modifications were key to achieving the desired transformation. These interventions allowed for a fundamental reordering of the interior spaces, resulting in an expansive plan that added 140 m² (1,500 ft²) to the home, effectively increasing its functional area by almost 60%. This substantial expansion was carefully integrated to maintain the architectural integrity of the original Edwardian structure while introducing contemporary design elements and improved spatial arrangements. The renovation focused on creating a harmonious blend of old and new. While the external appearance maintained deference to its Edwardian heritage, the interior was reimagined to meet modern living standards. This involved careful consideration of material selection, lighting, and custom built-ins to optimize both aesthetics and utility. The design team, led by Shengjie Qiu and Liam Hall, under the office leadership of Aleris Rodgers and Francesco Valente-Gorjup, worked to ensure that every aspect of the renovation contributed to a cohesive and functional living environment. The expanded floor area facilitated the creation of more generous common areas and private zones. The increased ceiling heights contributed to a sense of openness and airiness throughout the house, improving natural light penetration and overall ambiance. Storage solutions were integrated seamlessly into the design, addressing the clients' need for practical organization without compromising the aesthetic appeal of the interior. The project’s success lies in its ability to marry the historical character of the Edwardian house with a modern, adaptable, and significantly enlarged interior that caters to the evolving needs of a contemporary family. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #EdwardianHouse #TorontoArchitecture #StudioVAARO #StructuralInterventions #ModernLiving

The Patio House, designed by Solum Studio, is a residential project located in Sicily, Italy, specifically in the province of Syracuse. The house is positioned on a narrow strip of land that extends towards the sea, concluding on a cliff, and is designed to fully occupy the buildable area of the plot. Its architectural concept focuses on creating an introverted oasis that strategically opens up to embrace the seascape through its living areas. The design of the Patio House is characterized by its longitudinal development, running from the access road towards the sea. This layout allows for a sequential experience, starting from an enclosed, private arrival point and gradually transitioning to expansive views of the sea. The introverted nature of the initial spaces provides a sense of seclusion and privacy, which then gives way to an open and airy living area that acts as a direct interface with the natural coastal environment. Key architectural elements and materials used in the project include concrete, which contributes to the structural integrity and aesthetic of the building. The choice of materials and the overall design aim to create a harmonious balance between robust construction and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The project's emphasis on a patio or courtyard structure suggests an interior-focused design that likely incorporates natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience while maintaining privacy from external views, except for the deliberate openings towards the sea. The project was completed in 2025 and covers an area of 400 square meters. The architectural team involved Mattia Agates, Lorenzo Campagna, Filippo Gismondi, and Alessandro Loda from Solum Studio, with Gian Mario Vecchiato as a collaborator. Nicolò Panzeri is credited for the photography, capturing the essence of the house and its relationship with the Sicilian landscape. Manufacturers such as Carl Hansen, Fornace Sant'Anselmo, Ideal Work, Sicilianagessi, and dnd contributed to various aspects of the house, indicating a selection of quality materials and furnishings. This residential architecture project is categorized under houses and highlights contemporary design principles tailored to its unique coastal site. The strategic placement and orientation of the house demonstrate an understanding of both environmental factors and the desire to create a private yet visually connected living space. The use of a patio and the intentional opening towards the sea suggest a thoughtful approach to balancing indoor and outdoor living, privacy, and engagement with the natural surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Avola #Italy #SolumStudio #Concrete #CoastalDesign #PatioHouse

This article showcases a luxurious shingle and stone Colonial home located at 7 Harbor Drive in Rye Town, currently on the market for $5.5 million with annual property taxes of $78,377. The property is highlighted for its exquisite design, construction, and breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound, visible from almost every room. The listing agent, Alix Sara Prince, emphasizes the tranquility and beauty of the seaside location, noting that even working from home in the office would be a pleasant experience due to the spectacular scenery. The custom-designed residence, conceptualized by New Rochelle-based architect Justin Minieri, boasts an impressive array of high-end features and meticulous attention to detail. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a unique hand-stained decorative floor in the entryway, setting the tone for the home's elaborate interiors. Key architectural and design elements include 10-foot ceilings, a grand circular staircase adorned with hand-carved newel posts and a custom-designed dome, Herringbone floors, Wainscot walls, crowned archways, and solid-core interior and exterior mahogany doors. Additional luxurious touches include porthole windows for enhanced natural light, custom-fitted closets, fireplaces with Federal mantels, an indoor/outdoor surround sound system, and a cherry-paneled residential elevator. The home offers five bedrooms, including a self-contained master suite that exemplifies opulence. This master retreat features an octagonal sitting room nestled within a turret, a convenient serving bar, a lavish marble bath, a custom office with a built-in circular desk and bookshelves, and a private mahogany deck. The entertainment possibilities extend to a finished lower level, which houses a 1,500-bottle wine cellar, catering to connoisseurs and hosts alike. Outdoors, the property continues to impress with a heated in-ground pool, complete with an automatic cover and an attached spa, all framed by a stone loggia. The construction of this magnificent property in 2001 was meticulously handled by Dowko Development, headed by Richard Donsavage, from Armonk. The interior design, which contributes significantly to the home's distinctive character, was a collaborative effort by the internationally renowned firm of the late Greg Jordan, with contributions from Rob Southern. Prospective buyers interested in this unique seaside estate can contact Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty listing agent Alix Sara Prince or visit the dedicated property website for more details. #LuxuryRealEstate #RyeTown #SeasideHome #ColonialArchitecture #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #HighEndProperty #LongIslandSound #WestchesterMagazine

This article highlights a 2,010 sq ft corner live/work loft located in San Francisco's South Beach district, currently on the market for $2.15 million. The property, Unit 208 at 355 Bryant Street, is situated on the second floor of a converted warehouse originally designed by architect George Applegarth in 1916. The 88,000 sq ft building served various industrial purposes, including a distribution center, printer’s workshop, and office space for General Electric, before being transformed into live/work lofts by David Baker + Partners in 1992. The loft boasts striking architectural features such as sand-blasted timber ceilings, colossal support beams, and exposed red bricks, which contribute to its industrial aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling windows are a prominent feature, providing abundant natural light. To ensure privacy, trees have been strategically planted outside to shield the inhabitants. The interior design is characterized by hardwood floors, white interior walls, and rigged spotlights, maintaining a cohesive industrial look throughout the space. The layout includes two bedrooms and a combined living room, kitchen, and dining area. A raised seating area off the main living space serves as a private nook, currently configured as an informal TV room. This versatile area could also function as guest accommodation or additional studio space, complementing the main office located off the living room. The kitchen has undergone a recent update, incorporating soapstone counters that add a tactile quality to the modern design. Residents of Apartment 208 benefit from two dedicated parking spaces and access to the building’s rooftop terrace, which offers views of the Bay. The South Beach neighborhood, once an industrial area, has experienced significant revitalization, with its former dilapidated industrial buildings being repurposed into cafes, clubs, and condominiums. This transformation underscores the area's appeal as a vibrant urban living space. The property is listed for sale by Ron Sebahar of Compass. #SanFranciscoProperty #LiveWorkLoft #IndustrialConversion #WarehouseConversion #DavidBakerPartners #SouthBeach #ArchitecturalRenovation #UrbanLiving #PropertyListing

This blog post highlights a unique studio apartment located at 400 West 12th Street in the Superior Ink condo building, West Village, New York City, currently listed for $2.3 million. The 943-square-foot residence, described as a “zen suite,” features an interior meticulously designed with a focus on luxury, custom elements, and smart home technology. The apartment's aesthetic is characterized by a blend of natural materials and contemporary finishes, creating a tranquil and sophisticated living space. The entrance to the home features a narrow hallway adorned with leather walls, artistic displays, and subtle light coves. This hallway provides access to essential amenities including a full bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a washer/dryer closet. A smaller closet ingeniously houses a Savant smart home system, allowing for integrated control of the apartment's various functions. The bathroom itself is a showcase of modern design, featuring heated travertine floors, a limed oak vanity topped with white Quartzite, a spacious walk-in shower with a teak floor, and a separate water closet, emphasizing both comfort and style. The kitchen area is equipped with white Quartzite counters, a distinctive blue-vein Cipolino marble backsplash, a Sub-zero refrigerator, and stainless-steel Viking appliances, indicating a high-end culinary setup. Adjacent to the kitchen is a bedroom alcove, which has been reconfigured into a custom dressing room surrounded by built-in closets, catering specifically to individuals with a significant wardrobe. Both the kitchen and the dressing room can be privately enclosed using hand-carved sliding doors imported from Bali, adding an exotic touch to the interior. The main living space is accessed via a hallway lined with architectural mirrors. The bed area is distinguished by a white leather headboard and a coordinating footboard that cleverly conceals a custom television lift. The room offers ample space for a separate sitting area and features Shagreen counters, grasscloth walls, and large south-facing windows that fill the space with natural light. The apartment boasts 10-foot ceilings throughout, Morado wood floors, custom light fixtures, a built-in audio system, and electronic drapes, sheers, and shades, enhancing the luxurious feel. The Superior Ink condo, built in 2010 and designed by Robert A.M. Stern, is LEED-certified, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability. Its prime location offers residents convenient access to Hudson River Park, the High Line, the Whitney Museum, and other cultural attractions within the West Village. The building also provides a range of amenities, including a residents’ lounge, a screening room, a fitness center with a pilates/yoga room, a playroom, and 24-hour concierge and doorman services, ensuring a comprehensive luxury living experience. #WestVillage #StudioApartment #LuxuryRealEstate #SuperiorInkCondo #InteriorDesign #SmartHome #Fashionista #NewYorkCity #RobertAMStern

The Rio Cedro House, designed by Plan:b arquitectos and completed in 2011, is situated in Moñitos, Colombia, on the Caribbean Sea coastline. This architectural project integrates with a tropical dry forest ecosystem, emphasizing a design approach that respects and responds to its natural surroundings. The house's location allows it to interact closely with both the forest and the sea, informing its material choices, spatial organization, and environmental strategies. Sergio Gomez provided the photography for the project. The design of the Rio Cedro House is characterized by its open structure and use of locally available materials. Wood, in particular, is a prominent material, selected for its aesthetic qualities, sustainability, and ability to blend with the natural environment. The house features elevated platforms and permeable enclosures that facilitate natural ventilation and offer panoramic views of the landscape. This open-plan approach helps to blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces, promoting a continuous interaction with nature. The strategic placement of windows and openings maximizes natural light and minimizes the need for artificial cooling, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Environmental considerations are central to the Rio Cedro House's design. The architects focused on creating a structure that is both resilient to the tropical climate and minimally impactful on the delicate ecosystem. The elevated design helps protect the house from potential flooding and allows the natural ground cover to thrive beneath. The use of natural materials and passive design techniques reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture. The house acts as a model for integrating modern living with environmental preservation, demonstrating how structures can coexist harmoniously with diverse natural habitats. The house's program includes various living spaces tailored to its coastal forest setting. These spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, catering to different activities while maintaining a strong connection to the outdoors. The layout promotes a fluid movement between rooms and encourages occupants to engage with the surrounding environment. This project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can enhance the human experience by immersing residents in a natural setting while adhering to principles of sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The integration of the house with its site in Moñitos, Colombia, showcases a balanced approach to development in sensitive ecological zones. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Colombia #Moñitos #WoodConstruction #TropicalArchitecture #SustainableDesign

Tribe Studio, a Sydney-based architectural firm, undertook a unique project to renovate House Au Yeung, a typical inter-war bungalow in Roseville, Sydney. The family residing in the bungalow desired a more spacious and functional home with an improved connection to their 362 sq m garden. The architects made an unconventional decision to slightly reduce the building's footprint while simultaneously enhancing its spaciousness. This project, which took two years from design to completion, focused primarily on the rear and upper levels of the house. The original structure featured a poorly connected series of rooms at the back, which were replaced with a new pavilion. This strategic alteration resulted in a minimal reduction of the building's footprint by 4 square meters, bringing the total to 129 sq m. The new rear pavilion now accommodates a large open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, fostering a better flow and interaction with the garden. Additionally, one of the original formal reception rooms at the front of the house was repurposed into a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, optimizing the use of existing space. The renovation also included the addition of a roof extension with an extended gable. This new upper level skillfully incorporates two children’s bedrooms, a bathroom, and a playroom, demonstrating an efficient use of vertical space. Hannah Tribe, the founder of Tribe Studio, described the house as possessing a 'whimsically and nonsensically detailed' character, blending elements of Tudor and California Bungalow styles. The design aimed to preserve and enhance this inherent charm. A key design element involved a 'material palette call and response' between the public and private areas of the building. Miriam Green, Tribe's managing associate director, meticulously recreated the brick sunburst feature from the original front elevation at the back of the house. Similarly, the lead light windows found at the front were reinterpreted as modern steel window frames in the rear, creating a harmonious visual dialogue between the old and new sections of the bungalow. The seamless integration of modern interiors and design elements behind the original red brick facade maintains the home's historic charm while offering contemporary living spaces. The playful block color bathroom tiling further contributes to the whimsical style of the house, adding an unexpected touch of modern design. #TribeStudio #BungalowExtension #SydneyArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriors

This article highlights a custom-built, one-owner ranch-style bungalow located at 4495 Second Line West in the Gros Cap area, Prince Township. The property, constructed by Higgins Construction in 1997, offers almost 1,800 square feet of living space, comprising two bedrooms and three bathrooms. The interior features blonde oak hardwood flooring throughout and an open-concept design that integrates the kitchen, dining, and living areas. A significant feature is the expansive wall of windows in the living and dining rooms, providing a south-facing view of Lake Superior. The kitchen is designed for functionality with ample storage, counter space, and multiple windows, enhancing its bright and sunny atmosphere. The primary suite is well-appointed with an ensuite bath and a large walk-in closet, ensuring comfort and privacy. A second bedroom and a conveniently located laundry room complete the private living spaces. The property also includes practical amenities such as a double attached garage and a large interlocking brick driveway, offering abundant parking options for residents and guests. The design prioritizes capturing the natural beauty of the surroundings, with specific emphasis on the panoramic lake views that are central to the home's appeal. The outdoor area of the property spans 300 feet of private sandy beach along Lake Superior. This waterfrontage includes a water break and shallow entry, making it suitable for recreational activities such as swimming and beach enjoyment for families with children and pets. The landscape is characterized by mature trees, providing generous shade and ample space for gardening, outdoor play, and various year-round activities. The combination of the sandy beach and the direct lake access contributes to a desirable lakeside lifestyle. The location of the bungalow is a notable advantage, situated approximately 20 minutes from downtown Sault Ste. Marie. This proximity allows convenient access to urban amenities such as shops, restaurants, and various services while maintaining a serene waterfront setting. The area also benefits from the presence of nearby schools, trails, sports fields, and major parks, catering to a range of community and recreational needs. Dave Butkovich, Broker of Record at Castle Realty (2022) Ltd., emphasizes the quality craftsmanship and the stunning lakeside views as key selling points, highlighting the potential for creating lasting family memories in this setting. Castle Realty specializes in cottage sales and offers services to potential buyers interested in this type of property. #WaterfrontBungalow #LakeSuperior #PrinceTownship #RealEstate #CustomBuiltHome #HigginsConstruction #LakesideLiving #GrosCap #SaultSteMarie

Studio Mesa undertook a significant renovation of a 10,500-square-foot, seven-bedroom, ten-bathroom property in Rancho Santa Fe, aiming to restore and enhance its original Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style. The previous owners had modernized the home, removing many of its distinctive Spanish design elements, which conflicted with the clients' desire for warmth, character, and a return to the home's authentic style. The project, led by partners Jill Norman and Cameron Shepherd of Studio Mesa, commenced in the fall of 2021 with a vision to reintroduce the historical architectural details prevalent in Rancho Santa Fe, one of the first planned communities to embrace this style in the 1920s. The single-story residence, built in 1990, features a private wing for bedrooms and a public wing for living and entertaining. The designers drew inspiration from the home's "resort-style" property, which includes four acres of lush gardens, mature fruit trees, and rolling hills, aiming to create a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces. The interior design references nature through textures like earthy terra cotta, plaster, oak, and eucalyptus tones, ensuring the home harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Key transformations included converting an unused music room into a cozy library bar, complete with herringbone wood floors, a custom bar, coffered ceilings, custom lighting, and a temperature-controlled wine cellar. A brick groin vault was added to the dining room, an office suite received curated bookshelves, and the family room was updated with a new Mediterranean-style fireplace and exposed beams. The kitchen, requiring the most extensive work, saw the removal of a partial wall to create a more open flow into the family room, and the introduction of a breakfast nook with a banquette, resulting in a lighter and brighter space. The property also features multiple detached casitas, a theater, a wellness space, an Olympic-length pool, outdoor kitchens, a solar farm, and customized sports courts. The interior details incorporated handmade tile from Tile Collective, custom area rugs from Modern Rugs LA, paint from Farrow & Ball, and a mix of new and vintage pieces from Chairish, antique stores, and estate sales, reflecting the designers' belief that interesting homes feel collected and lived in. Challenges included addressing the "hodgepodge of styles" left by previous renovations and working around existing hard finishes like brightly colored blown glass, gray tile floors, and thick onyx countertops. These were replaced with softer, warmer materials such as wool rugs, natural wood grain, terra cotta tile, and rich upholstery. The designers balanced the architectural drama and scale of the home with the clients' laid-back lifestyle, ensuring the spaces were elegant yet unfussy. The outcome was a home that feels significantly warmer, inviting, and personalized, infused with personal touches that hold meaning for the clients, ultimately transforming it into a cherished family home. #SpanishRevival #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RanchoSantaFe #StudioMesa #ArchitecturalRestoration #LuxuryHomes #SanDiegoInteriors #DesignTransformation

The "House Valley" project, a residential dwelling located in Taichung, Taiwan, was completed in 2024 through a collaborative effort between Soar Design Studio and Ray Architects. The design concept focuses on deconstructing traditional architectural forms to foster a deeper integration with nature. Instead of a singular, elongated structure characteristic of traditional street houses, the building is composed of five distinct, staggered volumes. These volumes are strategically separated by gaps, which serve to introduce natural light and ventilation into the interior spaces. The architectural approach emphasizes the interplay of horizontal and vertical planes, which are manipulated to create floors at various levels. This multi-level arrangement is designed to enhance the penetration of natural elements, such as wind and sunlight, throughout the home. The overall aesthetic and functional design draws inspiration from the imagery of valleys, combining this natural motif with the principles of a traditional Taiwanese courtyard. This blend aims to create a living environment that is not only visually harmonious with its surroundings but also adaptable to local climatic conditions. Key specifications of the project include a total area of 338 square meters. The lead architect for the project was Ray Chang, with Lin Yi-Syuan handling architectural details and Lin Shang Hsien responsible for interior details. Photography of the completed project was provided by Hey! Cheese. The construction utilized concrete as a primary material, contributing to the building's structural integrity and aesthetic. Furniture and fixtures for the interior were sourced from notable manufacturers such as Carl Hansen and Son, MUJI, and Republic of Fritz Hansen. The design's deliberate segmentation into multiple volumes, along with the incorporation of gaps, facilitates cross-ventilation and allows for diverse views of the surrounding landscape. The varied floor levels contribute to a dynamic internal spatial experience, preventing monotony and offering different perspectives within the house. The integration of a courtyard, a common feature in traditional Taiwanese architecture, further enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor living, providing a private outdoor space that also aids in climate control. This project reflects a contemporary interpretation of residential architecture in Taiwan, prioritizing environmental responsiveness and a nuanced interaction with the natural world. The use of robust materials like concrete ensures durability, while the selection of high-quality furniture suggests a focus on comfort and sophisticated interior design. The combination of modern design principles with traditional regional influences results in a distinctive and environmentally sensitive dwelling. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Taiwan #Taichung #SoarDesignStudio #RayArchitects #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalIntegration #ModernDesign

Priscilla Cordoba Tarkington, owner of Casita Mariposa and an interior designer through Penelope Studio, discussed her entrepreneurial journey, combining her expertise in interior design with the hospitality sector. Her business philosophy centers on creating comfortable and visually appealing environments for families and friends to gather. Casita Mariposa, a short-term rental property, serves as a practical application of Penelope Studio's design principles, offering a Floridian retreat experience. Tarkington highlighted the unique aspect of Casita Mariposa's interior design, which incorporates tropical elements like rattan, cane, and Caribbean colors (coral and deep blue), distinguishing it from the prevalent modern white and gray aesthetics found in many short-term rentals. She emphasized the use of quality materials and amenities designed to cater to travelers' needs, drawing from her experience as a frequent traveler and set decorator for television. Despite the challenges of managing a short-term rental, including constant maintenance and wear-and-tear, the goal is to provide an 'escapist experience in a beautiful setting,' aligning with Penelope Studio's mission to inspire a 'more beautiful world.' Tarkington also provided an extensive itinerary for visitors to Miami, showcasing her pride in her hometown and aiming to dispel the misconception that Miami is solely about Ocean Drive and nightclubs. Her recommendations focus on classic Miami neighborhoods and experiences, moving beyond the party scene. She suggested visiting Coral Gables, starting with Cuban coffee and tostadas at La Carreta, followed by brunch at the Biltmore Hotel, and an afternoon of shopping and international dining on Miracle Mile and Giralda Avenue, highlighting Calista Greek Taverna. For Coconut Grove, she recommended Fairchild Tropical Garden for nature immersion, followed by a stroll down Main Street with dining suggestions like Greenstreet Cafe, Berries, and Glass & Vine, and shopping at Ochie and Edite Mode. Tarkington also detailed a scenic drive along S. Bayshore Drive to Brickell, leading to the historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and a trip over Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne. Her personal family tradition includes jogging or biking over the Rickenbacker Bridge, culminating in brunch at La Boulangerie Boul'Mich in Key Biscayne, and a visit to Bill Baggs Florida State Park, including the Cape Florida lighthouse and coastal trails. Further recommendations for Miami encompassed diverse experiences. For nightlife, she mentioned Brickell's lounges, with "Crazy About You" as a personal favorite. Family-friendly options included Jungle Island and the Israeli cuisine at Abbale in South Beach. For special occasions or fine dining, Jaya at The Setai and Matador Room at the Miami Beach Edition were suggested. Tourists were advised not to miss the gelato, shops, and cafes at Lincoln Road Mall. Relaxation was covered with suggestions for a spa day pass at Carillon Wellness Center (with beach access) or a treatment at The Standard Hotel spa. For luxury shopping, Bal Harbour Mall and Aventura Mall were highlighted, with Bar Taco in Aventura recommended for dinner. Exploring Wynwood and the Design District was also on the list, with specific mentions of Wynwood Walls artwork, KYU, and Coyo Taco for Mexican food, and Swan in the Design District for a chic dinner experience. The itinerary concluded with a beach picnic from Le Sandwicherie and a detox stop at Aguacate Sanctuary of Love before heading to the airport. Finally, Tarkington expressed gratitude to her husband and family—Shannon, Jill, Vanessa, Eva, Vero, her mother, and John—for their hands-on support and labor in bringing her businesses to fruition. This acknowledgement highlighted the collaborative effort and personal investment behind her professional achievements, underscoring the importance of community and familial backing in her entrepreneurial journey. #PriscillaCordobaTarkington #CasitaMariposa #PenelopeStudio #InteriorDesign #ShortTermRental #MiamiTravelGuide #Entrepreneurship #LocalBusiness #FloridaDesign