The hotel
The Florida sun, a front-and-centre view of the Gulf of Mexico and miles of powdery white sand make the GullWing Beach Resort on Estero Island in Fort Myers a location worth hitting. The decor doesn't hurt either. The fresh and airy one-, two-, and three-bedroom luxury suites in this 12-storey condominium offer a modern take on the Gulf Coast retreat. If painted wicker and flowery chintz isn't your thing, book in here. The contemporary-comfy surroundings, fully loaded gourmet kitchens, wet bars and spacious enclosed verandas will have you coming back for more warm-weather fun, whether you're with the kids or on a couple's getaway.
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The look
Think coastal-classic white walls, ceiling fans and, in a nod to the location, plenty of oceanic blue upholstery and wicker and rattan furniture. But wicker gets a modern update when it appears on a modern sofa and is stained a deep, rich brown (this isn't your grandma's white-wicker sunroom!). Cheerful island-bright bedding lends a getaway feel to the bedrooms, although the ensuite master baths are about serious relaxation. Jacuzzi tubs, soothing, sand-toned walls and a neutral palette keep the mood mellow. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer Floridian splendour, neutral ceramic tile in the kitchen offset contemporary stainless-steel appliances, and sisal-hued broadloom adds comfort underfoot.
The inspiration
As anyone could tell you, it's location, location, location. With the GullWing's proximity to a white-sand, shell-strewn beach and the gorgeous Gulf beyond, the prestige placement of this property plays a natural role in its design. Without competing with the natural beauty of the location, the suites' high ceilings, great sightlines, and sand-and-sea-inflected palette honour the prime real estate.
To find out how to recreate this hotel style at home, check out the next page >>
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