FRESH START

A layered aesthetic and an abundance of bespoke

details result in a dwelling suited for a Midwestern
family’s transition to life in a Southern paradise.
by Elizabeth Bonner Czapski | styling by Krista Watterworth Alterman | photography by Jessica Glynn

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n early March 2016, with winter’s chill holding
strong, an Ohio family was determined to
escape the cold in favor of more temperate
climes in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Arriving
in their new surrounds with little more than
their suitcases, the transplants immediately teamed up
with acclaimed designer Krista Watterworth Alterman
of Krista + Home to infuse their abode with an authentic
sense of place that remains true to who they are.
“The vision for this home was a warm, coastal vibe,”
Krista says. “I like a home to feel like it’s already been
lived in, even though everything is brand-new. I also
wanted to help this family embrace their new location
and lifestyle.”
Taking advantage of their clean slate, the family
embarked on a new construction in the emergent Alton
neighborhood, a community designed for relishing
outdoor living at the beach with palm tree-lined
walkways and parks with lakes.
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Krista was excited to join the project at ground level
and assist with the distinctive architectural details
the homeowners desired, from repeated tongue-and-
groove shiplap to prominent tray and coffered ceilings
that bring intrigue to the master bedroom and main
living spaces. “As far as personal touches, the shiplap,
wainscoting, and barn door (to the study) were a must,”
the homeowner says. “They give us that feeling that this
house is ours.”
One of Krista’s primary goals was seamless
style from front to back. “I wanted the home to feel
energetically cohesive, but not repetitive,” she says.
“My thought process, from room to room, was to
continue the palette with some surprises along the
way.” To accomplish this, Krista incorporated several
eye-catching accent walls, like a Champagne-colored tile
wall glistening in the master bath and wallpaper bearing
subtle prints in the dining room and study.
To imbue the house with hints of its lovely locale,
Krista worked in plenty of organic, sea-inspired accents
throughout, without straying from the classic overall
ambience. “Coastal elements must be subtle yet
interesting,” she says. “It was important for this home
to include natural elements, as well as a clean and chic
aesthetic. I wanted it to be a great space to entertain
new friends and family.”
Yet she also preserved pieces of the owners’ past—
from foundation to final accessories, the team worked
to ensure the family felt completely at home. “A big
part of my job is to delve into personal details about
my clients in order to craft a home that is intrinsically
their own,” Krista says. Printing, framing, and hanging
their “Family Pledge” at the bottom of a striking
iron staircase off the living room served as a perfect,
personalized finishing touch.
Ultimately, the design process fostered roots for
the family, ushering them into their newly adopted
region. “This home is certainly classic at its base, and
that makes it a Southern home,” Krista says. “With
wainscoting, painted tongue-and-groove, wide-plank
wood floors, and plenty of marble details, this home
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reflects Southern charm at its best. The family is
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adjusting well to living in paradise.”
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 The kitchen exudes a sleek, modern ambience,
enhanced by refined elements that incorporate the
seaside surrounds and bring personality to the
space. “The island makes a statement, and I love
the organic look of the beautiful quartz,” says
designer Krista Watterworth Alterman. Its
waterfall edge creates clean lines, and a black base
introduces color contrast repeated in pendant
lights above. A marble-and-glass mosaic
backsplash calls to mind serene waters.

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 In a cozy corner of the study, Krista chose a wallpaper with an understated design to surround a sophisticated built-in bar area made

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interesting with mixed materials like wooden accents, a cowhide rug, a woven stool, and a plush chair. (Opposite) In the grand dining

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room, Krista pulled out all the stops—from a custom coffered ceiling to unique wainscoting and a Schumacher covering on the walls.

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A rustic farmhouse table and contemporary lighting are softened by pillows aplenty and a posh banquette.

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Krista brought dynamic appeal to the neutral master suite by adeptly integrating varied textures, fabrics, and finishes. Tongue-and-
groove shiplap mingles seamlessly with layered rugs, brass light fixtures, luxe bedding, wood-grain side tables, and velvet chairs. In
the bathroom, a wall of gleaming tile draws the eye, while a range of prints on the Roman shade, stool, and rug contrast without
competing. A decorative collection of sea coral pieces and a sunburst mirror deliver tactile finishing flourishes. (Opposite) In the
10-year-old daughter’s room, a dreamy lounge area offers imaginative seating with a bold-patterned sofa, modish white stools, and
a rattan swing. “It adds a touch of whimsy and is the perfect spot to curl up with a book,” Krista says.

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