Dream Houses: Historic Beach Homes & Cottages of Naples

"Wilson and Taylor's Dream Houses brings Old Naples to life, providing both fascinating stories and wonderful photographs of the historic Florida city."--Rodney Kite-Powell, Tampa Bay History Center

Naples, Florida, is known internationally for its stunning beaches, cosmopolitan ambience, and captivating architecture. Originally settled in the late nineteenth century, the seaside resort town is blessed with abundant historical architecture. One of the Sunshine State's first "planned communities," the city is consistently recognized as one of the top growth areas in the United States. As a result, the original beach homes, most built between 1895 and 1950, are today threatened by land development and new construction.

Dream Housesis the visually inspiring record of the private homes in the historic district of this iconic Florida beach town. It captures the visual, factual, and familial history of these homes as they have, over the course of decades, survived hurricanes, commercial development, architectural evolution, real estate upheaval, and frenzied economic growth.

Joie Wilson and Penny Taylor were given privileged access to these houses; together they reveal the beauty, anonymity, and privacy these homeowners have discovered. This once-in-a-lifetime glimpse into these charming homes is an architectural and interior design delight; a unique look at some of the most distinctive beach cottages remaining in Florida.

A member of the American Society of Interior Designers, Joie Wilson moved to Naples from North Carolina, where she was active in the historic preservation of the state’s architectural heritage. Her design projects in Naples range from contemporary beachfront high-rise condominiums to both new and old cottages. Photographer Penny Taylor has lived and worked in Naples for thirty-five years. Her work is on permanent exhibit at the Norris Center in Naples, and her images have appeared in a variety of publications, including American Lawyer.