Transforming this charming example of a 1926 Palm Beach house by architect Gustav Maas was a study in restraint and embellishment. We traversed the process of having the house land marked and won the 2008 Polly Earl Preservation Award for our efforts. While maintaining the historic exterior, we played with the interior layout. We embellished the gracious entry and opened up what was once a series of formal rooms. The new plan helped set the tone for a more relaxed and casual lifestyle. The interiors are filled with vibrant tropical hues and clean modern furniture forms. Each room flows seamlessly into the next and gives the overall feeling of a playful and joyous place to retire and escape. Photographer: Mark Roskams