Gold Award Best of show over $250,000
Ross Design Group, Orlando, Fla.
Project location: Windermere, Fla.
Sq. ft. before: 2,090
Sq. ft. after: 4,658
Project cost: $1,230,000

Nestled beneath half century old live oaks, this home, remodeled by Ross Design Group, with authentic Spanish Revival appeal takes full advantage of the property. Beginning as a 1950s home, bedrooms of the existing structure were utilized taking advantage of zoning setback conditions and also saving on property taxes.

The goal of this home was to utilize the site wisely, preserving four large oaks and to create an appropriate plan designed for family entertaining. Authentic materials or exact replications were used to enhance the true heritage of the Spanish theme.

This project incorporates several green and authentic products such as the following:

• Energy-saving products:
  
• Closed cell foam insulation for additional structural value and insulation
  
• solar pool heating
  
• tankless gas water heating

Eco-friendly or renewable products:

• bamboo flooring
  
• recycled aluminum tiles used on fireplace
  
• cork flooring
  
• recycled Old Chicago brick used for exterior patios and walks

Unique and authentic products:

• hand painted Spanish tiles used at exterior stair risers
  
• hand-forged wrought iron railings and accents
  
• “cap and pan” clay roofing tiles from Barcelona, Spain
  
• Reel Screens retractable hidden outdoor screens
  
• Cobble Systems authentic cobble stone driveway

Due to the natural slope of the property, the lower level remained as children’s bedrooms, guest suite and laundry/hobby room. The new upper level is the main living floor with family room, covered porch, study, and a secluded master suite overlooking the lake and courtyard.

With the home’s courtyard facing the lakeside, the lower loggia and pool establish a central entertaining area. This courtyard can be accessed through a breezeway from the front driveway, avoiding either guest traffic through or around the home. Concealed retractable screens establish practical comfort, enclosing the spa and grill area from unwanted evening mosquitoes.

“This is the most elaborate transformation I’ve seen in a long time,” commented one judge. “The site plan and ability to use outside elements incorporated with the interior is great. The details and materials are spectacular.”

Specified Products

Bath fixtures: Kohler
Fireplace: Fire stones by European Home
Hardware: Ashley Norton
HVAC: Trane
Kitchen appliances: GE Monogram
Solid surface: Avonite
Windows: Andersen

Silver
Monmouth Custom Builders, Deal, N.J.

Bronze
Marrokal Design & Remodeling, San Diego, Calif.

Honorable mention
Architectural Building Arts, Inc., Madison, Wis.