Like the ebb and flow of the tides, a homeowner’s design preferences naturally evolve over time. And if this picturesque seaside home seems familiar, it’s because the Davidson’s are no strangers to Cantoni’s renowned design services. Their St. Petersburg, Florida residence was previously transformed a decade ago into a modern oasis under the expert guidance of Kohl Sudnikovich, who began his design journey at Cantoni back in 1999.
After years of enjoying their luxuriously designed space, the Davidson’s desired an invigorating update. They turned once again to Cantoni and their trusted designer, opting for sophisticated silhouettes from leading brands like Malerba, Arketipo, Pianca, and Gloster. Kohl introduced high-end finishes and striking pops of color, breathing new life into their already cherished home.
Stepping into the main living space, it’s immediately evident that a vibrant palette was at the forefront of the Davidson’s design vision. The lofty ceilings and expansive wall-to-wall windows, with their breathtaking water views, provided Kohl with the ideal canvas for rich, dynamic hues. These colors come to life in the carefully selected seating, accessories, and elegant entryway, where a stunning piece by the now-retired artist John Douglas takes center stage. This captivating artwork served as the inspiration for Kohl’s design, seamlessly leading to the complementary art piece in the adjoining living space. The result is a harmonious blend of color and form, luxury and sophistication.
“The biggest challenge with this space was the immense size of the room,” said Kohl. “We decided on several focal points to break it up into two distinctive spaces: the waterfront seating on one side and the fireplace area on the other.” While these two seating areas would traditionally crowd a room, Kohl utilizes mirrors that face the wall of windows, providing an illusion that opens the entire room, making everything feel airy and comfortable.
In the Davidson’s refreshed living space, beloved pieces remained central to the new design narrative, such as the cherished artwork above the fireplace. A harmonious blend of fabric and leather defines the seating arrangements, offering both visual intrigue and textural variety. Decorative pillows and accessories play a crucial role, intricately setting the style and mood of the room while effortlessly bringing the entire space together. Enhanced by an abundance of natural light, these thoughtful details create a space where every element easily complements the others, embodying the essence of Cantoni’s signature of luxury and sophistication.
The bedroom serves as a sanctuary, a place to unwind after a long day. In the master bedroom, Kohl crafted a distinctly peaceful atmosphere, setting it apart from the vibrancy of the living space. Instead of large, open windows showcasing panoramic views, elegant curtains were hung to provide a soft barrier, offering the opportunity for ambient lighting as desired. The use of lighter furniture juxtaposed with the darker wall paneling creates a harmonious yet relaxed air. This serene environment is a testament to the careful balance of elements, resulting in a space of complete cohesion.
Central to the design of this space is Malerba’s Secret Love collection, a perfect choice for the Davidson’s. After browsing Cantoni’s website, they were immediately captivated by the melodious lines and elegant shapes of the Italian brand’s collection, which adds an extra layer of sophistication to their bedroom retreat.
Kohl knew this was the perfect choice. “I immediately brought in the curved lines that were found in the living space with the headboard from the Secret Love collection,” he said. “The Davidson’s loved the lacquered wood tone and the statement hardware.”
This home’s prime view makes its outdoor space the perfect stage to show off Cantoni’s luxurious outdoor collections. With beautifully sculpted landscaping and multiple tiers for outdoor entertainment and leisure, Kohl knew that the homeowners were spending plenty of time outside. With this in mind, Kohl’s selections needed to live up to – or even exceed – the Davidson’s expectations. The upper patio was furnished with an intimate seating arrangement that overlooks the pool and sweeping bay views beyond. Additional seating can be found right along the water, providing a stunning view both day and night.
"It’s always a treat when I get to work with clients again,” said Kohl. “The Davidson’s are a prime example that sometimes all you need to take a home to the next level are a few key pieces that blend seamlessly with ones that are already owned and cherished.”
