In 2005, Paul Mills and Mary Faller purchased their dream home, a two-story spec in Creve Coeur built by Berkley Construction. “I couldn’t believe at such a young age we had this beautiful, big home where our children would grow up,” recalls Faller, a physician who had graduated from medical school just a few years earlier. “It had everything we wanted so there would be no need to move.”

Built in 1977, the 4-bedroom ranch was a classic example of mid-century modern architecture—low-slung, streamlined and designed to integrate with its surroundings. In spite of the home’s age, the soon-to-be owner recognized its potential and acquired the property in 2019. Nearly two acres in size, the lot was beautifully wooded, large enough for a planned pool and well-oriented to capitalize on natural sunlight.

1. Tesselle Blocks Decorative Cement Breeze Blocks, often called Screen Blocks or Ventilation Blocks, are available from Tesselle in dozens of patterns, and 8 colors. They are ideal for separating and defining spaces, while providing sun protection, increasing privacy, and maintaining openness and airflow. Tesselle carries several patterns in stock, available on a first-come basis, and offers free shipping within the 48 contiguous states. Custom orders are delivered in approximately 12 weeks. 

Sun, Sand, Surf Beachy interiors aim to feel as refreshing and relaxing as possible. To emulate the coastal color scheme in your modern coastal design, think about sun, sand and surf; light yellows, white, beige and plenty of blues. Less is more and the lighter the better in this color scheme. To create interest, learn to play with and layer neutrals, such as white, cream and sandy tones. White walls will make the interior appear more spacious and airy as well!

Skillful use of color is fundamental to any interior design project. The expert professional is well aware that color choices not only affect how a space looks but also how it feels. In the design world, it’s referred to as “color psychology” and can significantly influence a client’s satisfaction with the end result.

When it came time to start thinking about retirement, a St. Louis couple knew their next adventure would center around boating. In search of a coastal property with a deep-water dock, the wife happened upon Spring Island, South Carolina, when she was researching historic plantations online.