Clearwater Condo Gets Glamorous Makeover

Reimagined Clearwater Condo: Before and After

If you suddenly found yourself single and totally free to design the home of your dreams… what would you do? For one fabulous client, it meant turning her downtown Clearwater condo into a bold, new beginning - a place that celebrated her next chapter with flair, function, and just the right amount of champagne sparkle.

Clearwater Condo Entertaining Areas

With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a view that would make anyone swoon, this Clearwater condo had potential. It just needed a little (okay, a lot of) Lisa Gilmore Design magic. Her wish? A home that welcomed guests in style and felt more intimate and personal with every step deeper inside. We were up for the challenge.

Let’s take a tour, shall we?

Before: Uninspired Condo Entry

Picture this: a dimly lit, narrow hallway that felt more “meh” than “magnifique.” Not exactly the grand entrance a Parisian-inspired space deserves.

photo: Before - Uninspired Entry

After: Sculptural, Eye-Catching Entry

Voila! The moment you open the door, you’re greeted by sculptural columns from artist Joel Escalona - like modern art standing guard. We opened up the surrounding walls to invite in light and energy, making this Clearwater condo feel open, elevated, and endlessly elegant.

photo: After - Sculptural Entry

Before: Bland Lounge Begging for Personality

This front room had great bones (hello, tray ceiling), but its personality? Missing in action. The client wanted a space that encouraged conversation, not just collecting dust on bookshelves.

photo: Before - Bland Lounge

After: Vibe-Worthy Clearwater Lounge

We transformed it into a posh gathering spot that feels like a chic boutique hotel lounge. With luxe finishes and lighting that sets the mood, it’s the ultimate spot for intimate chats and pre-dinner cocktails.

CLEARWATER CONDO LOUNGE AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before: Small Dining Area Changes Function

Who needs a formal dining room when your dinner plans usually involve tapas and your favorite people? That’s why we thought this space could use a change of purpose.

photo: Before - Small Dining Area

After: Wine Lounge

Enter the wine lounge: elegant bar stools, a sculptural table, and a jaw-dropping 18th-century Louis XV walnut secretaire as the pièce de résistance. The higher ceiling in this area adds drama - and yes, more room to swirl your glass with flair.

photo: After - Elegant Wine Lounge

CLEARWATER CONDO WINE LOUNGE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before: Builder-Grade, Spiceless Kitchen

Dark cabinets, can lights, and builder-grade everything. The old kitchen was screaming for a glow-up.

photo: Before - Builder’s Kitchen

After: Bon Appétit in Paris Kitchen

Cue the marble! We went full-on sculptural with the countertops to create a true statement piece. It’s neutral but never boring, thanks to bold artwork and shimmering gold accents. 

Plus, a clever surprise: the client’s old closet became a dreamy walk-in pantry, hidden behind a secret door (because who doesn’t want a secret door?).

photo: After - Paris Kitchen

CLEARWATER CONDO KITCHEN - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before: Clearwater Condo Formal Living Room

The view? Stunning. The room? Flat. The vibe? Still searching.

photo: Before - Living Room

After: Water View Clearwater Florida Living Room

We added a sleek water vapor fireplace (it purifies the air too—bonus!), flanked by custom niches for art. The marble mantel, rich millwork, and antique French chandelier add instant romance. 

photo: After - Marble Fireplace Living Room

Swivel chairs invite guests to enjoy the fireside conversations, or take in the bay view and the outdoor concerts below. It’s cozy, cultured, and so Clearwater.

photo: after - Living Room with View

FAQs: Find Your Clearwater Condo Paradise

1. Is it expensive to live in Clearwater?

Clearwater offers a wide range of housing options, from cozy condos to luxury waterfront estates. While some neighborhoods (especially those with water views) can be pricey, many areas offer a more affordable cost of living than other coastal cities. It all depends on your lifestyle, location, and taste for the finer things like outdoor entertaining and sunset views!

2. Does Clearwater Beach have condos on the beach?

Yes, and they’re dreamy! Clearwater Beach has a beautiful selection of beachfront condos - many with sweeping views of the Gulf, resort-style amenities, and walkable access to all the best restaurants, shops, and of course, the sugar-white sand. Whether you’re buying or renting, there’s a condo with your name on it.

3. Is Clearwater, Florida for old people?

Only if you think sunshine, art festivals, beach days, and rooftop cocktails are just for the retired crowd! Clearwater is home to people of all ages - young professionals, families, retirees, and seasonal residents alike. With a growing food scene, fun events, and beautiful design-forward living (hello, Clearwater condos!), it’s far from sleepy.

If this Clearwater condo makeover has you dreaming of your own “fresh start” home, we’d love to help. Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll be in touch faster than you can say “hidden pantry.”

For more dreamy transformations and behind-the-scenes peeks, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter. We’ll bring the pretty and the practical right to your inbox.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a luxury interior design firm based in sunny Tampa Bay, Florida. From antique treasures to artisan-crafted details, we create one-of-a-kind spaces filled with liveable glamour. We proudly serve homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and anywhere wanderlust leads you.

What No One Tells You About the Cost of Outdoor Furniture (Especially in a Condo!)

Selecting Outdoor Furniture for Florida Condos

If you live in Florida, your outdoor space isn't just a nice-to-have. It's prime real estate for sunset lounging, cocktail sipping, and catching coastal breezes. At Lisa Gilmore Design, we think of patios, balconies, and terraces as extensions of your home (just with better lighting and fewer walls). But if you're dreaming of turning your condo balcony into a breezy retreat, there’s one thing most owners don’t see coming: the cost of outdoor furniture.

Designing Magical (and Durable) Outdoor Spaces

Let’s be honest, outdoor furniture has quite a job. It has to survive the Florida sun, sudden downpours, salty air, and sometimes even a hurricane or two. That means the materials need to be first class. Think teak, powder-coated metals, and UV-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella. These materials are gorgeous, but they don’t come cheap or without care and maintenance.

Durability is everything. Nobody wants their cushions to fade into pastel ghosts or their table to rust after one summer. So yes, those chic chairs you saw online for $199 might be tempting, but they will probably only last one season.

And let’s not forget style. Outdoor furniture has come a long way from plastic lawn chairs and wobbly tables. We’re talking sculptural sofas, curved sectionals, performance upholstery in designer patterns, and even outdoor chandeliers. Function + fashion = investment.

photo: Al Fresco Dining Balcony

The Add-Ons That Surprise Every Condo Owner

Many of our clients are surprised by what outdoor spaces need to feel finished. It's going to cost more - especially if you don't want to settle for plain, boring white. Here are a few common curveballs:

Cushions & Fabrics: Outdoor cushions need to be moisture, mold, and UV-resistant. And that luxe designer fabric? It's going to cost more than indoor fabric.

Outdoor Rugs and Lighting: If you want to define your outdoor room and set the mood, you’ll need more than just furniture.

Shade: Think umbrellas, canopies, or even pergolas. Not glamorous until you’re sweating through your silk kaftan.

Delivery and Installation: High-rise condos mean scheduling elevators, navigating hallways, and white-glove delivery.

photo: Outdoor Seating Area

Outdoor Furniture for Condo Living

Condos come with their own set of unique considerations like size. You can’t throw a full sectional out there and hope for the best. Every piece has to be carefully measured and selected to balance function and flow. Custom-sized outdoor furniture often becomes the star of the show.

Then there is wind. Florida balconies can be breezy, so lightweight, big-box furniture won’t cut it. Heavy, wind-rated pieces are essential. (Yes, they’re pricier.) And, some condos make residents pull all furnishings inside, which is also a big consideration.

And don’t forget HOA rules. Some buildings restrict what you can place on your balcony, which may require custom solutions. We always check the fine print before placing any orders.

photo: Florida Condo Balcony

How Lisa Gilmore Design Handles Outdoor Design

We treat outdoor rooms just like indoor ones: with intention, artistry, and a healthy dose of liveable glamour. We’ll talk about budget, goals, and how you want to feel in the space. Then, we curate pieces that fit your vibe and hold up to the elements.

We educate our clients on the true investment of outdoor furniture from the start. No sticker shock here, just stylish, functional spaces ready for morning coffee or a twilight spritz.

photo: Florida Condo Outdoor Furniture

FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions About Outdoor Furniture

1. What is the best outdoor furniture that holds up to the weather?

When it comes to braving the elements, not all outdoor furniture is created equal. The best weather-resistant options are made from materials like teak (which ages oh-so gracefully but does require oiling once a year), powder-coated aluminum (sleek and rust-resistant), and all-weather wicker (practically impervious to rain and humidity). Cushions covered in solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, like Sunbrella, are also must-haves for withstanding sun, storms, and wine spills. If your furniture can handle Florida’s tropical mood swings, it can handle just about anything!

2. What is the best month to buy outdoor furniture?

If you love a good deal and a good lounge chair, mark your calendar for August and September. As summer starts winding down, retailers often slash prices to make room for fall inventory. That’s your moment to pounce! But if you want the widest selection (and don’t mind paying a bit more), spring is prime time for fresh finds. Just remember: great outdoor furniture is an investment in your backyard retreat.

3. What kind of patio furniture can stay out all year?

If you don’t want to play musical chairs with the weather forecast, go for patio furniture built to live outdoors full-time. Look for teak, eucalyptus, or other hardwoods that weather beautifully over time. Powder-coated aluminum and resin wicker are also stars of the all-season stage. Want cushions that won’t cry in a thunderstorm? Choose quick-dry foam and weatherproof fabrics. Bonus tip: furniture covers and regular care keep your pieces looking gorgeous, rain or shine!

Outdoor furniture may be an investment, but it’s one that pays off every time you step outside with a good book or a great friend. When thoughtfully planned, your balcony or patio becomes a magical oasis that expands the way you live in your home.

Dreaming up a fabulous space - indoors or out? Let’s chat! Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll be in touch. Want even more inspiration, peeks behind the curtain, and tips for adding liveable glamour to your home? Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter and let the design daydreams begin.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a luxury interior design firm based in sunny Tampa Bay, Florida. We specialize in creating one-of-a-kind spaces for busy professionals—with a flair for the bold, the beautiful, and the brilliantly unexpected. From Clearwater to St. Pete, Hyde Park to South Tampa, we turn everyday homes into showstopping sanctuaries filled with soul and style.

Stylish Outdoor Rooms: Inspiration from a Waterfront Retreat

Designing Dreamy Outdoor Rooms

When summer rolls into Florida with its salty breezes and sun-soaked days, we Floridians know exactly where we want to be – outside, soaking it all in. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, sipping something fizzy under swaying palms, or catching the scent of jasmine on the breeze, the magic of those moments lies in one thing: well-designed outdoor rooms. At Lisa Gilmore Design, we believe the great outdoors deserves just as much love as the indoors – and we’ve crafted plenty of enchanting alfresco spaces to prove it, including this dreamy mid-century modern waterfront gem.

COASTAL OUTDOOR ROOMS- LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Waterfront Backyard Renovation Perfect for Outdoor Entertaining

This once-underutilized backyard got the ultimate glow-up – now reimagined as an entertainer’s dream! With lounging zones, dining nooks, and dreamy views for days, every inch of this outdoor space was thoughtfully optimized for soaking up sunshine, sipping cocktails, and hosting unforgettable gatherings under the palms.

FLORIDA OUTDOOR ROOMS - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Poolside Outdoor Seating with a View of the Bay

This dreamy outdoor spot was made for sun-soaked conversations and breezy bayfront lounging. With a view like this, every sip and story feels extra special. From the bold blue chairs to the inviting loungers, it’s the kind of spot that says, “stay awhile.”

SEAMLESS INDOOR-OUTDOOR SPACE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living Space with Poolside Access

This shot captures the magic of blending inside and out. With walls of glass that open to the pool and patio, it's like the house is saying, “Let’s live out here today.” Plush loungers, breezy palms, and a sparkling pool make it the perfect place to unwind, entertain, or just soak up the sunshine.

Stylish Outdoor Room for Alfresco Meals

Tucked under the palm trees and just steps from the pool, this dreamy dining spot is made for long, lazy lunches and sunset dinners. The terrazzo-inspired table and sculptural chairs strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined – proof that outdoor meals should always come with a side of style.

photo: Outdoor Dining Room

Lush Walkway Leading to the Outdoor Pool

A tropical welcome like no other, this lush side walkway leads you straight to poolside bliss. With smooth stepping stones, inky river rocks, and vibrant greenery hugging the path, it’s like your own little jungle runway – just follow the fronds and let the relaxation begin.

photo: Lush Walkway St Petersburg

Things to Think About When Planning an Outdoor Room

1. Purpose First, Pretty Later

Before you start dreaming of twinkle lights and tufted outdoor sofas, pause and ponder: What’s the point of this space? Is it your morning coffee retreat? A dinner party haven? A cozy reading nook? Once you know the “why,” the “what” (furniture, layout, mood) becomes delightfully easier to figure out.

2. Location, Location, Sunlight

Where does the sun hit, the breeze blow, and the neighbors peek? All these things matter. Do you want to bask in the golden hour or hide from the midday heat? Think about what views you want to frame (and what you wouldn’t mind hiding behind a trellis).

3. Zones and Flow

Even an outdoor room benefits from a little structure. Picture zones like locations in your backyard story: one for lounging, one for dining, one for spontaneous stargazing. And don’t forget flow! You want guests to wander, not weave through a maze of planters and side tables.

4. Materials That Weather the Weather

If you’ve lived in Florida for more than five minutes, you know Mother Nature has moods, so your furniture better be ready. Choose pieces that can laugh in the face of sun, rain, and storms. Teak, powder-coated metal, and outdoor fabrics are your best friends. Bonus points if they’re easy to clean!

FAQs: Creating Magical Outdoor Rooms

1. What is an outside room called?

It goes by many names – outdoor living room, garden room, patio paradise – but really, it’s your alfresco escape! Whether you’re hosting wine-soaked summer soirées or curling up with a good book and a breeze, it’s that magical spot where indoors meets out, and nature becomes part of your home’s story.

2. How much does an outdoor living room cost?

Ah, the age-old question: how much will it take to bring your backyard dreams to life? A charming little setup might start around $5,000, but if you're adding built-ins, lush seating, or fire features worthy of a romcom movie set, you could be looking at $20,000–$75,000+. The sky’s the limit – quite literally!

3. What should I think about when designing an outdoor room?

Start by dreaming – do you picture Sunday brunches with birdsong? Late-night laughter under twinkly lights? Then think practical: shade, seating, weather-hardy materials, and cozy touches like rugs and throw pillows. Blend function with flair, and voilà! You've got yourself an outdoor room that feels like a vacation – no passport required.

Designing an outdoor room isn’t just about furniture and fire pits—it’s about creating an experience. Whether it’s a tucked-away garden nook for morning tea or a sprawling patio built for sunset soirées, your outdoor space has the power to become your favorite "room" of the house. All it takes is a little planning, a dash of imagination, and just the right touch of glamour.

Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll be in touch to talk all things color palettes, cozy corners, and cabana dreams. For a steady stream of project reveals, expert tips, and a peek behind the design curtain, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter – you’ll be the first to know when magic strikes.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay-based interior design firm specializing in bold, luxurious spaces with personality and polish. We’re a full-service team of creatives who design and manage everything from cozy renovations to top-to-bottom new builds, guiding you from the first consult to the final reveal. We proudly serve homeowners in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park—and all across the globe where great design is needed.

What’s Your Home Exterior Design Style?

Home Exterior Designs That Wow

Your home’s exterior is like the cover of your favorite book—it sets the stage for what’s inside, makes a statement, and should feel uniquely you. But with so many design styles out there, how do you find the one? Are you drawn to timeless elegance, modern flair, or a mix of both? No matter your vibe, discovering your dream home exterior design starts with a little inspiration (and maybe a touch of daydreaming).

5 Home Exterior Styles That Make Coming Home a Pleasure

That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain on five stunning projects from Lisa Gilmore Design, each with its own unique personality. From bold color choices to architectural eye candy, these homes prove that curb appeal is so much more than just a pretty front door. Let’s dive in!

British West Indies-Inspired Home Exterior Design

Imagine stepping into a tropical retreat without leaving home. That’s exactly the vibe of this 5,500-square-foot stunner in Snell Isle, St. Petersburg. Inspired by the homeowners’ love for the British West Indies, this new build is all about light and breezy sophistication. Think crisp white walls, wooden columns, dreamy louvered shutters, and oversized windows that flood the home with natural light. It’s like vacationing in paradise—without the packing.

BRITISH WEST INDIES HOME EXTERIOR STYLE

Transitional Elegance Meets Maximum Curb Appeal

Also nestled in Snell Isle, this new construction home takes a completely different approach. With sleek lines, a striking wood front door, and a low-profile tiled roof, this home is the definition of modern elegance. It’s statuesque yet inviting—a masterclass in making a statement without shouting.

photo: Snell Isle Home Exterior

TRANSITIONAL HOME EXTERIOR FLORIDA

A Waterfront Escape with Caribbean Charm

photo: Venitian Isles Home Exterior

Once upon a time, this Venetian Isles home was hidden behind a jungle of overgrown plants. Enter Lisa Gilmore Design and poof!—the home got a serious glow-up. Now, its vibrant turquoise shutters, charming roof overhang, and crisp white exterior give it the perfect tropical touch. It’s fresh, it’s fun, and it’s got that effortless island getaway feel—exactly what every waterfront home deserves.

WATERFRONT HOME VENITIAN ISLES FLORIDA

VENITIAN ISLES HOME BEFORE

Mid-Century Modern Masterpiece

MID-CENTURY MODERN HOME ST PETERSBURG

If this home could talk, it would probably say, “Oh, you think you know mid-century modern? Think again.” Designed by the late, legendary architect William Harvard, this one-of-a-kind home in the exclusive Bayway Isles community is a love letter to straight lines, gentle curves, and geometric perfection. To make the entrance truly stand out, we chose a stunning aqua door with custom millwork, adding just the right amount of character and color. It’s bold, it’s breathtaking, and we’re obsessed.

CUSTOM MID CENTURY DOOR TAMPA

Mediterranean Home Exterior Design Makeover

MEDITERRANEAN HOME EXTERIOR DESIGN MAKEOVER

This 5,500-square-foot Clearwater home started as a classic Mediterranean mansion—think bold yellow stucco and old-school charm. But with a fresh coat of soft white paint, it got an instant glow-up! Paired with its original terracotta tile roof and stone driveway, the result is a modern Mediterranean dream—timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic.

photo: Mediterranean Home Before

FAQs: Your Hottest Questions about Home Exterior Design

1. How do you design your house outside?

Designing your home’s exterior is part science, part art. Start with a cohesive color palette that works with your architecture and natural surroundings. A bold front door (hello, personality!) or elegant hardware can instantly elevate your entryway. Landscaping is everything—lush greenery, layered flower beds, and statement lighting can work wonders. Architectural details like shutters, trim, and stone accents add depth and character. And don’t forget about outdoor furniture and cozy lighting—because your exterior should feel like an extension of your home’s personality.

2. How much does an exterior designer cost?

Like any great investment, hiring an exterior designer comes with a range of pricing. Depending on the scope, location, and level of customization, you might spend anywhere from $1,500 to $15,000 (or more). Some designers charge hourly rates between $100 and $300, while others offer package deals. Big factors like landscaping, architectural changes, and premium materials can add to the cost—but the boost in curb appeal and home value? Totally worth it.

3. What is the trend in home exterior design in 2025?

Get ready for a year of organic textures, sustainable materials, and statement-making details. Warm, earthy color palettes—think deep greens, rich browns, and soft terracotta—are making homes feel cozy yet sophisticated. Black and charcoal exteriors? Still going strong for that bold, modern aesthetic. We’re also seeing a rise in mixed materials (wood, stone, and metal combos), oversized windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces. And with sustainability top of mind, expect energy-efficient features like solar panels and smart outdoor lighting to become must-haves.

With home exterior designs, the possibilities are endless. It’s not just about picking the right color or material—it’s about creating a space that makes you excited to pull into your driveway every day. And that is where the magic begins.

Inspired to give your home a fresh new look? Let’s make it happen! Fill out our design inquiry form and we’ll contact you for more details. To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida, specializing in luxury, one-of-a-kind spaces. We believe in mixing artisan-crafted pieces, antique treasures, and custom details to create homes with soul. Serving homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and beyond.