Modern Florida Home is a Stunning Retreat Among the Wetlands

Nestled into a wooded setting, this ultra-modern home is not a stereotypical Florida getaway. Instead, the 4,800-square-foot house is a private and sophisticated vacation home set in a neighborhood along a canal near Lake Maitland in central Florida.

The 9-acre, canal-front Lake Maitland Owl Preserve subdivision is actually a suburb of Orlando, which has countless attractions including the well-known theme parks that draw millions of visitors each year. Lake Maitland is the largest among the lakes in the Winter Park chain, all of which are connected by canals like the one that fronts this neighborhood.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

From the very first glimpse of the house, its sleek modern style is apparent, from the architectural profile down to the style of the house number.  The plantings are low maintenance and properly suited to the hot weather setting in a design by Evergreen Consulting.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

Designed by Michael Wenrich Architects in collaboration with E2 Custom Homes, the chic residence has an open concept floor plan that uses large windows to capitalize on its green and private surroundings. The seamless transition from one area to another creates a space that is not only open and beautiful but also efficient and very functional. Best of all, a lush and tranquil landscape surrounds the house and makes the view from every room relaxing.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

The interiors, designed by Rob Turner, have a neutral palette which lets not only the outdoors be the focus, but also highlights the owner’s colorful art collection. Furnishings are clean-lined and modern, keep ingthe vibe relaxed throughout the space. Adjacent to the lanai, the dining room is a light-filled and expansive space. The decor also makes creative use of a mirror arrangement on the wall to reflect the outdoors and create an illusion that there are even more windows.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

This minimalist kitchen has everything you could need, most of which is hidden away behind sleek cabinetry. White quartz countertops are highlighted by the spectacular Cristallo Quartzite backlit backsplash. Top of the line appliances in the kitchen include a Wolf Pro dual range, SubZero refrigerator and freezer, and a room-sized walk-in pantry. Barstools have a low profile and fit under the countertop to maintain a clean look.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

Rather than relying on fussy accessories, the designer made use of the large expanses of wall to show off different artworks and unique placement for drama. A chandelier comprised of modern globe pendants hangs in the stairwell alongside a pair of large abstract paintings that are placed adjacent to one another in the corner right up against the ceiling. It’s an unusual placement but it makes the upper-level room look larger by visually extending it into the top of the stairwell.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace
Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

In addition to the flowing main living space, the home offers five bedrooms, six bathrooms and amenities galore. A downstairs master bedroom features a lanai and upstairs, the large master suite is adjacent to the spacious rooftop deck and green roof. The suite is spacious and open, using a combination of recessed and accent lighting for illumination. Sliding doors to the rooftop deck have floor to ceiling drapes to ensure a dark environment for proper sleep.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

The large master bath features a gorgeous long, floating vanity and a large expanse of mirror. By the window is a very unique bath and shower area. A partial glass wall sections off a freestanding bathtub and rainfall shower, which are placed side by side, confining the water to a single space. A long, horizontal drain maintains the minimalist look.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

The ground floor master bedroom is also quite open and airy, featuring a modern architectural detail on the wall behind the bed that extends up on to the ceiling. Combined with the recessed light feature in the ceiling, the wood trim lines visually heighten the space and truly make the bed the room’s focal point.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace

The outdoor living spaces around this residence not only make it the perfect getaway but also a spectacular space for entertaining family and friends, whether for casual dining or an upscale cocktail party. The large windows and doors on the back of the house help blend the indoor space with the exterior environment. A covered area provides seating for dining and has its own outdoor kitchen with a built-in barbeque grill. The pool is an eco-friendly saltwater type and a heated spa provides a relaxing diversion for cooler weather. Finally, the seating area has a gas firepit that creates the perfect atmosphere for lingering outdoors into the night. Further back from the house,  a 400-foot boardwalk ends with a boat slip along with endless views of the wetlands beyond.

Modern home in Florida by Michael Wenrich Architects patio and fireplace