Siesta Key Cottage

As a designer, stepping into the aftermath of Hurricane Milton on Siesta Key was both sobering and inspiring. The coastal home, once a breezy retreat with panoramic Gulf views, had suffered extensive damage—collapsed rooflines, blown-out windows, and waterlogged interiors. But behind the debris was an opportunity: to honor the home’s coastal charm while rebuilding it stronger, smarter, and more beautifully than before.

We began by rethinking the layout to maximize natural light and improve storm resilience. Load-bearing walls were reengineered, and we expanded openings to connect interior spaces more fluidly. 

Every material was chosen with both form and function in mind. We used marine-grade composite siding that mimics natural wood grain but resists moisture, rot, and salt. Flooring throughout the home was replaced with porcelain tile in a driftwood finish—beautiful, tactile, and nearly indestructible. Cabinetry in the kitchen and bath was custom-built from water-resistant plywood with soft, matte finishes in coastal neutrals.

All windows were replaced with impact-rated glass, framed in clean, minimalist black aluminum to add contrast to the soft palette. We incorporated clerestory windows and transoms to draw in light from all angles, even on overcast days. The home now breathes with sunlight, open space, and air flow—designed to feel uplifting, even in the quiet moments after a storm.

We kept the design grounded in Siesta Key’s coastal heritage but elevated it with a modern organic aesthetic. Textured natural fabrics, handwoven light fixtures, and raw-edge wood elements bring warmth to the contemporary shell. We also used recessed LED lighting, layered for ambient, task, and accent illumination, to highlight architectural details in the evening.