A Timeless Coastal Retreat: Rejuvenating a Historic Residence on the PVIC Ocean Course

​

Bordering the 8th hole of the famed Ponte Vedra Inn & Club (PVIC) Ocean Course lies a charming two-story residence, one of four commissioned in 1941. Its classic cedar shake exterior and heart of pine floors evoke a sense of nostalgia, yet upon closer inspection, the landscape surrounding it lacked the same timeless elegance.

​

Helix Green Designs was called upon to breathe new life into the property, addressing not only outdated plantings but also significant functionality issues. The existing circular concrete driveway dominated the front entrance, while the red basket weave walkway offered a cold and uninviting welcome. The backyard, fragmented and lacking privacy, suffered from overgrown vegetation and a mismatched pool deck.

​

Helix Green Designs' vision centered on enhancing functionality while creating a secluded oasis. In the backyard, privacy became paramount. A double hedge of podocarpus and boxwood now surrounds the expanded pool deck, while transplanted deciduous hydrangeas were replaced with an evergreen podocarpus hedge along the fence line. Two strategically placed flowering crape myrtle trees flank a new custom gate, offering additional privacy from the golf course. A stepping stone walkway seamlessly connects the detached guest house, a popular grilling spot for the homeowners. Preserving the existing specimen oak trees was a priority. These established giants provided valuable shade and protection from the hot western sun, contributing significantly to the backyard's character and enjoyment.

​

The front yard received an equally transformative makeover. A more inviting brick-bordered tabby walkway now leads from the entry steps to the street, flanked by a procession of native sabal palms. These majestic trees not only enhance the scale of the two-story home but also create a sense of rhythm and cohesiveness. A matching overflow parking area replaced the unsightly circular driveway, seamlessly connected to the entryway with coral stone stepping pads. Native coastal silver saw palmettos provide screening from the street, further integrating the residence into its coastal surroundings. Recognizing the importance of selecting the ideal plant palette for the coastal environment, Helix Green Designs collaborated with other specialists in the field, including Sea Pine Landscape, to curate a selection that thrives in the coastal setting.

​

The resulting landscape design seamlessly blends functionality with timeless aesthetics, echoing the charm of the historic residence and creating a true coastal retreat for its modern-day residents.