N MAGAZINE OF NAPLES
January 2003

Sometimes the biggest design challenge may be the most unexpected. In the case of the Seavitt residence in Port Royal, the challenge was to make an architecturally impressive home feel warm, welcoming and comfortable for a young, active family.

Jim and Nancy Seavitt are delighted with the results of collaboration between builder Harwick Homes and designer Collins & DuPont. "It felt like home from the moment we moved in a year ago." The Seavitts have been dividing their time between Michigan and Naples for seven years, most recently living in Port Royal. Their search for a lot on the water with south or west views was rewarded three years ago when they purchased and demolished a home built in the early'50s. "We spent six months in planning our new home. The building was completed in 14 months. Preston Brown, our project superintendent, was excellent. We can still call him today if we have any questions.

The Seavitts and their children Jamie, 19, Brian 18, and Patrick, 17, take full advantage of the quiet streets of Port Royal, where they bike and roller blade. Jim plays golf at Naples Grande, and all enjoy tennis at the Port Royal Club. They are particularly active on the water, where you will find them doing a bit of fishing from the 31' Tiara or their 18' Boston Whaler. The whole family makes full use of the family's two jet skis to explore the waterways in the area. The home was clearly designed with family in mind. Described by Nancy as "French country with Mediterranean influences" even the rooms designed for more formal use invite you to kick off your shoes and get comfortable. The active family uses every square foot of the spacious home for living life to its fullest. The kitchen, open to the family room, commands a view of the pool and bay beyond. The media room, described by Jim as "probably my favorite room in the house" glows in tones of midnight blue and the billiard room, accented in crimson, is the scene for many friendly dart games.

From the second story landing, Nancy can look down on a two-story painting of a romantic beauty in a garden setting. As she points to the clouds in the painting she explains, "I had the faces of the children when they were very young painted into the clouds so every time I pass by I can see them." The effect is whimsical and charming. A local artist, Christine Moore, painted the piece and had it installed in the home. It is one more example of the special touches that make this beautifully appointed house a real home.