A Playful and Refined Oasis
When a New York couple fell in love with South Florida, they did more than extend their vacation—they decided to make it permanent. What followed was a stunning transformation of a 1990s Boca Raton residence into a breezy, art-filled multigenerational haven that blends sophistication with spirited color. Collaborating with renowned designers and architects, this retreat has become a vibrant reflection of style, function, and lasting relationships.
Visionaries Behind the Project
This exceptional home remodel was brought to life by a seasoned team of creatives:
- Architecture: Randall Stofft and Fredy Polania, Randall Stofft Architects
- Interior Design: Michael Cox and Zunilda Madera, Foley & Cox
- Home Builder: Michael Burzesi, Coral Bay Builders
- Landscape Architecture: Stephanie Portus, PLA Design Studio
This dream team turned a dated structure into a bold, welcoming sanctuary tailored for a modern family.
From Outdated to Outstanding: The Renovation
The original home required a full-scale renovation, starting with stripping it to its bones. Returning architect Randall Stofft and Fredy Polania, along with general contractor Michael Burzesi, reshaped the home’s structure. “We lowered certain ceilings, enlarged doorways, replaced dated arches with clean lines, and removed unnecessary level changes,” says Polania. The goal? To create a light-filled, contemporary home that flows effortlessly across spaces.
The designers reimagined room transitions with subtle elements rather than hard walls. For instance, the foyer and dining room share an open space, softly divided by a rotating wood sculpture reminiscent of sail masts. “They pivot, creating an adjustable sense of intimacy,” Cox explains. In the living area, a barrel-vaulted ceiling wrapped in woven natural material becomes the focal point, allowing lighting to take a supporting role.
Art and Collectibles as Soulful Signatures
The couple’s passion for art and design is woven into the home’s identity. Their collection includes pieces by Karl Zahn, Leon Polk Smith, and Takashi Murakami, with standout moments like David Gilbert’s oversized photo mural in the dining room. “It’s magical—like wallpaper, but more profound,” Cox says.
In the husband’s office, a bold Yves Klein table and abstract paintings add personality and playfulness, while the serene primary bedroom softens the palette with blush tones and a subtle green ceiling—wrapped in wicker, wood, and rattan textures for a tropical, calming effect.
Built for Family, Crafted for Life
Functionality was paramount. “The wife prioritized comfort and resilience,” Madera notes. That meant incorporating durable performance fabrics, cozy silhouettes, and furniture meant to host large family gatherings—including energetic grandchildren. Oversized club chairs, plush rugs, and performance textiles form the tactile base of every room.
Meanwhile, the husband’s design-forward sensibility guided the selection of rare and vintage pieces—items that lend a collected, timeworn elegance. “The Gio Ponti desk and the blue Yves Klein table were key,” says Cox. “We wanted a sense that the house had grown and evolved naturally.”
A Backyard Built for Bliss
Landscape architect Stephanie Portus envisioned the outdoor area as a “resort-like oasis.” Clean lines, tropical foliage like elephant ears, tree jasmine, and pygmy date palms, and strategic privacy screening transform the backyard into an extension of the home.
A standout detail: The custom mosaic tile pool floor, crafted from Fornasetti tiles by Bisazza, adds a spectacular visual twist. Bumblebee motifs and floral patterns bring art outdoors, inspired by Cox’s visit to the famed Fornasetti House in Milan.
A Creative Relationship That Keeps Growing
This Boca Raton residence marks the fourth collaboration between the couple and Foley & Cox, signaling a deep synergy that continues to evolve. “Each project gets more exciting,” says Cox. “They challenge us in the best way—functionality from her, design innovation from him.”
Designer Zunilda Madera adds, “It’s a rare joy to push boundaries and not repeat yourself.” From the shifting sail-like sculpture in the foyer to the joyful palette punctuated by collectible pieces, every element reflects a lived-in luxury that’s deeply personal.
Conclusion: A Colorful Masterpiece Rooted in Purpose
This Boca Raton home redefines multigenerational living by blending elegant design, personal taste, and everyday functionality. Thanks to a visionary team and a couple with a strong design ethos, this residence stands as a beacon of artful living in South Florida.
To explore the work of the talented professionals behind this project, visit:
A Masterclass in Material and Color
Throughout the home, deliberate choices in material and color elevate each room while preserving functionality. Below is a summary table of standout materials and furniture brands featured
Room/Area | Materials & Brands Used |
---|---|
Dining Room | Bower Studios table, Arteriors woven chairs, Bec Brittain chandelier, mural by David Gilbert |
Foyer | Luis Arredondo screen (StudioTwentySeven), light by Shim-Sutcliffe, rug by Cogolin |
Living Room | Flos Superloon lamp, Ralph Lauren Home wicker armchairs, Circa Who side tables |
Office | Gio Ponti desk, Takashi Murakami art, rug by Perennials, Decca coffee table |
Primary Bedroom | Maximo Caminero artwork, Zinc Textile curtains, Circa Who armchairs, custom wood furniture |
Outdoor/Pool Area | Fornasetti tiles by Bisazza, Ramón Esteve daybed, Harbour lounge chairs, Richard Schultz furniture |
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