Sebring, Florida, a Black design firm has transformed a historic plantation-style home into a modern space that honors the family’s Caribbean heritage and legacy. The project, led by architect Donyea Tollie of Tollie Design, focused on lightening the atmosphere of a dark, heavy dwelling to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for a local physician and his family.
Modernizing a Historic Structure
The homeowners, a close-knit Black Caribbean family of four, have lived in the home for over 25 years. As they approached retirement, they faced a choice: downsize or reimagine the house they built their lives in. They specifically sought out a Black interior design firm to guide this transformation.
Donyea Tollie notes that the two daughters envisioned a modern home that felt refreshed, while still honoring their story and Caribbean roots. They desired a full transformation, moving away from the dark, heavy feel of the home to something light, airy, and inviting.
The walls and trim throughout most of the first floor are painted Benjamin Moore Soft Chamois. This choice creates a warm yet airy, cohesive backdrop for the living spaces. In the sitting room, which also serves as a prayer space, the team kept the existing fireplace mantel and updated the surround with Cambria Notting Hill stone. To encourage natural energy flow, all the furniture in the area features rounded, curved edges.
The primary suite stands as the project’s centerpiece, designed as a true retreat. A custom upholstered bed in soft caramel chenille sits framed by an arched inset with Omexco wallpaper. Made Goods dressers in a vintage black finish provide contrast, balancing the light elements with grounded pieces.
Highlights in the bathroom include a vintage Randolph Morris freestanding tub, a Crystorama chandelier, and custom framed artwork by Marquest Cathcart. Donyea Tollie shares that materiality takes center stage in this space.
Design as a Legacy
Architecturally, the home stands on its own. Designed in a plantation style, it carries a complex and undeniable history. As a Black design firm designing for a Black family, Tollie Design approaches this work with deep awareness and responsibility. This history was something the team could not ignore.
The transformation centers on creating intentional moments of pause throughout the home, spaces that feel like quiet altars for rest, reflection, and reconnection. It is rooted in legacy and designed for what is next.
Tollie Design’s work on this project has resulted in a home that is both a reflection of the family’s past and a lakefront estate style retreat, perfect for relaxation and recreation.