This past may, I had the incredible honor of attending the Seaglass Design Awards in Bonita Springs, Florida—but this year, my experience was unlike any before.
Rather than submitting one of my own projects for consideration, I was invited to serve as an out-of-state guest judge. It was both a privilege and a humbling experience to be recognized by the Florida design community in this way. To be trusted with evaluating the work of so many talented designers and architects was truly an honor.
As a judge, I reviewed projects across a wide range of categories, scoring each entry on a scale of one to ten while providing thoughtful comments and professional critiques. The creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation displayed throughout the submissions were inspiring. Every project told a unique story, and I found myself continually impressed by the exceptional level of talent represented throughout Florida.
Driving from one of our current projects in Juno Beach to Bonita Springs, I have to admit I was feeling a little nervous. As someone based in Michigan, I wondered what it would be like walking into a room filled with Florida’s leading designers and architects. Would I feel welcomed? Would I fit in?
Those questions quickly disappeared.
From the moment I arrived, the team at Florida Design made me feel completely at home. Daphne Nikopoulos and her staff welcomed me with genuine warmth and kindness, introducing me to fellow judges, guest speakers, and industry professionals. Learning that this was the fourth year of the Seaglass Design Awards made it even more exciting to witness how this event continues to celebrate excellence in design.
Being seated at the head table alongside so many respected professionals truly felt like a “design royalty” moment—one I will never forget.
Throughout the evening, one message resonated over and over again: our industry is strongest when we support one another. The guest speakers emphasized the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and celebrating each other’s successes. Awards like these remind us why we dedicate ourselves to creating thoughtful, beautiful spaces that enrich our clients’ lives.
For me personally, this experience represented something much larger.
One of my long-standing professional goals has been to expand S|A|M Interiors beyond Michigan and establish a presence in Florida. Working on our Juno Beach project has already been an exciting milestone, but being embraced by the Florida design community confirmed that we are moving in the right direction.
Florida offers an entirely different design environment. The architecture, climate, landscape, and lifestyle challenge me creatively and allow me to approach interiors from a fresh perspective. Designing for coastal living inspires new material selections, color palettes, and architectural details while still maintaining the timeless, personalized approach that defines S|A|M Interiors.
One of my favorite discoveries while judging was the incredible diversity of the projects. While many people naturally associate Florida design with beachfront homes and ocean views, I was delighted to see so much more. Beautiful tropical landscapes, lush greenery, thoughtfully shaded outdoor spaces, and innovative architecture all showcased the incredible breadth of design throughout the state. Of course, I was equally captivated by projects that embraced expansive glass walls, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and breathtaking waterfront views that created the sensation of floating above the water.
If you appreciate exceptional residential design, I encourage you to explore this year’s Seaglass Design Award winners. The projects are a wonderful celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation.
I left Bonita Springs feeling grateful, inspired, and excited for what’s ahead. Thank you to Florida Design, Daphne Nikopoulos, the Seaglass Design Awards team, and everyone who made me feel so welcome. I look forward to continuing our work throughout Florida and to seeing many familiar faces again in the years to come.
Here’s to new opportunities, meaningful relationships, and designing beautiful homes—wherever they may be.
Bringing S|A|M Interiors to Florida
As S|A|M Interiors continues to expand our work throughout Florida, we are excited to partner with homeowners, builders, and architects who are looking to create timeless, thoughtfully personal homes. Whether you’re building a new coastal residence, renovating a waterfront retreat, or reimagining your primary home, our collaborative design process is tailored to reflect your lifestyle while delivering exceptional attention to every detail.
From architectural interiors and custom millwork to furnishings and finishing touches, we believe every home should feel both elevated and deeply personal.
If you’re a Florida homeowner, builder, or architect planning a project anywhere along the coast—or beyond—please reach out. I would love to hear about your vision and discuss how S|A|M Interiors can help bring it to life.
Let’s create something extraordinary together.