Lely Island Couple's Retreat

With the rise of AirBNB and the growing demand for upscale short-term stays, this property was completely gutted down to bare earth and reimagined as a high-end couples retreat. The existing pool served as the starting point—we preserved its core structure but added thoughtful upgrades: a shallow sun shelf with an LED bubbler, a raised spa with a spillway, and brand-new tile and plaster throughout for a fresh, contemporary finish.

To elevate the guest experience, the owners requested a unique resort-style feature: an underwater sound system, delivering immersive audio even below the surface—just like at luxury resorts.

On deck, maintenance-free porcelain tiles were mud-set in a shellstone-inspired palette for a timeless, coastal aesthetic. We expanded the space to accommodate a motorized louvered pergola and a fully outfitted gourmet outdoor kitchen, complete with bar seating and a wood-fired pizza oven for memorable al fresco nights.

Finishing touches included a private outdoor shower and oversized pots for the owner’s favorite orange trees—adding both fragrance and a personal flourish to this tailored retreat.