Not Torn Down (Yet)

Gordon Drive, Naples, FL

This is one of my favorite of the older, hidden properties in Naples, and it was built originally as the guest quarters for J. Glen Sample, who very fortuitously developed the area known as Port Royal. 

It was only in the mid-1980's that even our east coast sister city of Palm Beach implemented a historic preservation program, and let's hope the same will happen here~as it already has in the historic district of Old Naples.  I'll be in PB on Monday to hear dear Leta Foster talk about her new book: "Traditional Interiors" with dear Billy and our Palm Beach friend the designer Louise Wilcox Cronan.  Stay tuned! 
DF *****

* * * * *

Super Man, Stephen Jaron

I was more than delighted to see my friend Stephen Jaron, published in the September issue of "Naples Illustrated". Outstanding local businessmen were selected via a vote-in contest sponsored by the hottest lifestyle magazine in the Naples area. Stephen is the owner of two construction companies, the father of twins, and the husband of my good friend Amanda Jaron, the jewelry designer I've posted about here before. A dynamic duo, the couple makes their home here in Naples, and I've very much enjoyed getting to know both of them ever since Amanda asked me to meet her at Starbucks for coffee and conversation, years ago. The last time I saw them together we were all at a private party down at the Port Royal Club thrown by Jon Scott Mueller and Judith Liegeios for old friends. I also enjoyed the issue as it was created by the new editor, Dorothea Hunter Sonne, and look forward to upcoming issues. DF *****

See Naples and Die!

While Naples, Florida may not be every one's cup of tea, it certainly has grown on me. After living here year round all these years, I can finally see it for what it really is, and I like it very much. As a year round resident, I get to see the "real" Naples and the fantasy world it morphs into in the Winter. The Europeans love it here in the off season (Summer) and so do I. This season, I saw more conspicuous signs of wealth than ever before. It has become very much like Monaco. My friend, local designer Shari DuPont calls it a "mini Palm Beach" and I have to agree with her, since I now reside on a peninsula, almost entirely surrounded by deep water, and accessible by only two bridges by car. My friends Tim and Jerry had us to a party of theirs at the fabulous Port Royal beach club, where the mayor performed their lovely commitment ceremony, which was followed by a beautiful dinner party. The club was designed by Palm Beach architect John Volk in the 1950's and Brooke Huttig and Mimi McMakin did the interiors. Naples is simply chock full of talented decorators, and we all compete against New York and Palm Beach designers on a daily basis. In order to fully appreciate the charms of our small town on the gulf, one needs to get out of the car, and onto either foot, moped, trolley, or boat. Mother nature is truly in her glory here. Enjoy these casual shots I took this evening just on a quick bike ride around my neighborhood. DF*****

Texas Talent and Style

Imagine my delight at receiving an invitation from a new client to visit her home here in lower Port Royal! She's from Texas, and is the most charming down to earth lady imaginable, with a great personality and a fun sense of humour! She loves Tory Burch tote bags too. Strangely, I had done another house on her street (Sabre Cay Lane) years ago for two gentlemen from Jacksonville, Florida who own a large boat (read yacht). And I do know the realtor my new client bought her house from, since it was his house she bought! Fabulous! Love it! Speaking of Texans, I also love and admire the Texan designer Jan Showers of Dallas. Here is a stunning and very evocative image from Jan that simply resonated with moi...(that's me in french) LOL. Off to work, must get up and dressed and out the door...As George Lopez would say, "hit me with a scone"! DF*****