Classic coastal elegance adapted from the traditional Anglo-Caribbean style was the desired result when interior designer Michelle Jennings Wiebe joined forces with architect Jordan Behar to create a dream home for their clients. In Belleair Beach just off the mainland of Florida’s west coast, this 9,500-square-foot, three-story manse is awash in spectacular sunsets and glistening views showcasing the Gulf of Mexico. “They had a vision and the wife was very involved in the project, although she readily welcomed my creative input,” the designer says.

In keeping with the couple’s mantra of fun and relaxation, intimate outdoor spaces run parallel to the pool and beach beyond. The home’s lap board siding and stucco exterior and metal roof provide high resistance to the surprises of Mother Nature, while a timeless, classical vibe flows from the outside in. The interior palette embraces hues that connect with the water, ranging from watery blue to navy to aqua, all merging with the neutral shades and sugary white sand that is a mere stone’s throw away.

Styled with an eclectic mix of furnishings, the living room blends cool comfort with warm elegance. With relaxation in mind, the husband’s special request for the leather-clad lounge chairs meant for watching TV or just looking out to the beach went to the top of the list. “We went on a shopping expedition to High Point in North Carolina to hand select the most comfortable pieces,” Wiebe says.

Nearby, visual appeal highlights the dining room filled with intricate detail and splashes of color. No expense has been spared as chandeliers layered with capiz shells bring in the beauty of the sea above an oversized driftwood table. A delicate lattice scroll backs the side chairs seated in rich blue velvet that speaks to the host chairs tailored with an artful print and trimmed in pewter nailheads.

Fit for a chef, the expansive kitchen is designed for professional cooking and entertaining. Not one but two center islands fill the space with shiplap styling topped in the swirls and striations of quartzite. Creating a redefined look, each corner was constructed with columns that extend beyond the island. “We wanted to mimic the structural columns that are throughout the home,” the designer says. If that weren’t enough, a perpendicular third island becomes a great space for casual conversation and midday meals.

With no interruptions, the breakfast area appears to flow from the built-in banquette straight to the Gulf of Mexico. “It’s like a cruise ship; the space connects to the water behind it,” Wiebe says. A special host chair stands out in a brilliant, blue agate print, while a pair of white spiral chairs capture attention with a “twisted rope” effect that adds a hint of nautical whimsy.

For the gentleman of the house, a man cave was imperative. The only diversion from coastal chic, the game room and lounge area exude quintessential elegance. “We wanted the room to have a country club feel to it,” Behar says. “The dark-stained, mahogany walls and millwork are masculine with an Old Florida, turn-of-the-century appeal, while still having connectivity with the rest of the home and the Gulf of Mexico.”

The master suite is a restful and romantic space that brings a bit of the outdoors inside. Quiet colors and demure patterns are emphasized by oversized blue and beige paisleys as the prominent feature in the wool area rug. The bed is charming with its wood trim, sophisticated silhouette and finial corners. Continuity connects the periwinkle blue blocking pattern from the drapes to the pattern found in the shades that add warmth to the bedroom and master bath. “It’s one of my favorite things, I love the little dressmaker-style details,” the designer says. “I love this entire home; it embraces the splendor of five-star living on the beach.”

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