Two Naples-based design studios got the SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting treatment Feb. 27 for their shared building at 2365 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. One, an architecture firm; the other, specializing in interior design, MHK Architecture and Island Style Gallery and Design have goals to beautify the islands through home and commercial image.
“MHK Architecture is the only architecture firm with an office on the island,” said director Carmella Cioffi. “We feel fortunate to be so strongly involved in helping with the recovery of Sanibel and Captiva, as well as Fort Myers Beach. MHK Architecture has a strong history in Southwest Florida for residential as well as commercial design. I feel very fortunate to be able to continue that here on these barrier islands.”
The new Sanibel office is the latest of nine branches from Florida to the Carolinas and Colorado. MHK is currently working with Community Housing & Resources (CHR) to develop new properties, along with other island “dream home” projects.
“The chamber was one of the first organizations I joined when I started this office,” Cioffi said. “I have met so many wonderful people through the chamber. I was also privileged enough to be selected as one of the inaugural class members of Preserving Paradise [environmental leadership program]. As a newcomer to Florida it was so eye opening. I would highly recommend it to anyone who might be interested.”
“I have had my Interior Design Company, Montanna Design, for 40 years in Florida,” said Island Style owner Sharon Gilkey. “I have always loved the relationship between art and interiors and feel accessories are the frosting on the cake. So, it felt right to bring a design boutique to Sanibel that featured art and accessories as a compliment to anyone’s existing home.”
Island Style offers full interior design services like you can see on montanna.com. It also can provide consulting to refresh homes with art and accessories that give rooms pop.
“We are so excited to be a part of this wonderful community and we are enjoying getting to know so many wonderful folks,” Gilkey said.
“As our residents and businesses continue to build back from recent hurricanes, MHK and Island Style make the perfect one-stop spot for advice and design services,” said John Lai, SanCap Chamber president and chief executive officer. “Both promise beautiful outcomes for homes and commercial buildings as the islands bounce back better than ever.”
ABOUT SANCAP CHAMBER
SanCap Chamber is dedicated to promoting the prosperity of its members and preserving the quality of life of our community. The Chamber plays a key role in facilitating communication and cooperation between business, residents, and government to enhance the economic health of the islands. Its website, sanibel-captiva.org, receives over a million visits per year. For more information about the chamber, visit sanibel-captiva.org or contact John Lai, president and CEO, at 239-472-2348 or [email protected].
