beauty in imperfection

Designed to reflect the striking rawness of the ocean and dunes that surround it, this home is naturally stunning

-  Karine Monie

THE ARCHITECTS

Led by Christian Thomas and John Melhorn, Florida-based studio Thomas Melhorn designed and built a coastal refuge for a multigenerational family of cheese importers.

THE PROPERTY

Located on Jupiter Island, Florida, this three-acre property embodies beachside living. With its wood shake roof, lime-washed stucco and local coral stone, the house echoes the Florida vernacular. The property also contains a 900-square-foot guest house and a tennis court nestled into the landscape surrounded by a gym and generator building.

Moving from the hustle and bustle of New York City to relaxed and sunny Florida is a dream that Neal and Liz Schuman decided to realise after spending several winters in the idyllic environment of Jupiter Island, which borders the Atlantic Ocean. The couple came to Christian Thomas and John Melhorn of Thomas Melhorn, who assisted them with land acquisition before designing and building the 9,000-square-foot house (including the guest home) – it was a process that took three years to complete.

‘The conversations began very simply,’ remembers Christian. ‘The Schumans did not make specific requests for their home. Instead, they provided a list of 10 words and phrases to guide the design. Some of these included “peaceful retreat”, “outside-in”, “harmonious with location” and “environmentally responsible”.’