In the summer of 2022, Sweetgrass Galleries had the opportunity and pleasure to work with the Solamar Condominium Association Design Committee. 

The Solamar Board requested a refresh of the planters in the building’s unique indoor/outdoor atrium.

The Design Committee members, Nancy Brinker, Rhonda Curry, Gabriel Pentelie and Ronda Zillner came to Sweetgrass with a vision using elements reflective of our gorgeous Florida coastal environment.   

Sweetgrass advised the Committee the sunny and humid conditions in the airy atrium can fade silk florals and faux plants and proposed a design using UV protected, outdoor faux plants and succulents. Upon seeing samples of the materials, not only was the Design Committee delighted by the quality and beauty, so was the Board and other owners who took the opportunity to see the samples. Many commented on how realistic the plants looked!

The Design Committee at Solamar worked with Sweetgrass on several mock-ups and renderings before the final plans were put into motion. The concept was to create a series of lush islands “floating” among white stones accented by aqua and midnight blue glass “waters.”

Completed island arrangements ready for installation.

Each island was constructed with a styrofoam base that rests within planter beds.

PICTURED: (Owner of Sweetgrass Galleries) NORINE F. (Lead Designer of S.G.) BARBARA H. (S.G. Designer) LORETA D. (S.G. Marketing Coordinator) LAURA W.

Over 40 island arrangements and 19 floors later, in coordination with Superior Stone and Solamar facility personnel, the project was masterfully installed. 

Now, as guests and residents travel the glass-enclosed lobby elevator, they can view the enchantingly lit sea glass stone that runs throughout the plant beds of each floor. 

Each bed contains a variation of UV-protected faux agaves, yucca, dracaena, boxwood balls, thistle, and driftwood. These plants are all native to Florida and complement Solamar’s beachside living. In addition, the sea glass and driftwood beautifully accentuate Solamar’s contemporary and coastal design

“We truly loved working with the incredibly talented team of Sweetgrass Galleries. We feel fortunate to have a Board of Directors who put their trust in us to deliver and with your help we accomplished that!” 

-Solamar Design Committee