CRS creates art deco
with modern flair
Story by Christina Morris
Photography by Jeff Heatley
The complete transformation of an ocean front beach house into a sophisticated, elegant Mediterranean villa speaks volumes about the visionary skills of Charles Schwartzapfel, RA. The meticulous coral stucco/terracotta house featuring an attractive new roofline, natural stone trim and entry steps is in stark contrast to the weather worn vertical siding, outdated doors and windows, as well as egress and access issues that existed. According to Schwartzaphel, pointing out a new Spanish tiled roof and the added Romeo/Juliet Portuguese marble balustrade balcony, his clients had traveled extensively and appreciated the stylish aura of the Mediterranean and its colorful architecture. Schwartzapfel, an award winning architect, brought to the project a repertoire from both commercial and residential projects. He apprenticed to noted east end architect Norman Jaffe, a former student of both Phillip Johnson and Frank Lloyd Wright.
Architecturally, the most dramatic transformation took place on the southern ocean front façade. The living space is on the second floor to capitalize on the ocean view. A balcony adjacent to the living room was enlarged and a spiral staircase added to provide access to and from the lower level entertainment patio and the beach. A bay window was replaced with a stepping Palladian window giving access to the balcony. Non-slip Brazilian granite was installed along with white tubular steel fence that also constitutes the spiral staircase. The curved entertainment patio has built-in stone benches. It was given a stylish new appearance with non-slip Brazilian granite flooring, natural stone steps and wall base at the water table. The exterior transformation resulted in the seamless integration of the indoors with the infinite ocean view.
Our introduction into the persona of the owners was piqued by a life size female etching on the left glass entry door as well as a life-size
(continued)
|
