MONACO MUSINGS / by Faith Michaels

Hurricane Ian caused significant damage to the South Coast of Florida and the City of Naples. The Monaco Beach Club Condo Board was prompted to restore the storm-damaged vegetation and update the landscape of the 1983 building. Faithful Flowers proposed to retain surviving elements and introduced a design plan focused on native Florida species. Chandler Green from Green Heron Landscapes provided horticultural advice and the manpower for implementing the design. This restoration not only rejuvenates the surroundings but also enhances the appeal of the Monaco Beach Club Condominiums.

The first impression of the property underwent a stunning update with the removal of an overgrown hedge and the addition of light and airy bottle brush plants. Lush tropicals of varying heights were chosen for the foundation plantings, while long-lasting white Pentas were added for elegance. The result is a refreshing wow factor for the entrance.

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Neglected drainage areas near the parking garage were transformed into shell islands adorned with ferns and Bromeliads, improving aesthetics and effectively managing water runoff.

Native Crinum lilies are sprinkled throughout the landscape, adding a dramatic touch. Florida Muhly grass will add even more visual interest with its Autumn bloom.

New Areca palms, Florida Dombeya, wild petunia, and Xanadu now line the side of the property, offering a secret path for servicing the generators.

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A damaged retaining wall was reconstructed and filled with Petunias and native Thatch Palms.

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Following the storm's destruction, the old wooden retaining pool wall was swept away and subsequently replaced with a modern composite wall seamlessly integrated into the surroundings. The beachwalk has undergone extensive restoration and enhancement, now featuring improved nighttime lighting and adorned with orchids, elevating its appeal to a whole new level.

The elevated planters leading to the pool and additional colorful containers add pops of color in the common areas.

Seashells, grasses, and Clusia tidy up previously messy areas.

A hedge of silvery native Button Snake root is used to conceal the water main.

The garage area was cleaned up, and black river rock was added to retain and dress up the bed. Giant Cutleaf Philodendrons were introduced to soften the concrete, creating an appealing and polished look.

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The barren and bare exit was transformed to a lush, lovely tropical lane.

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The shared front of the building, which was also used by three other high-rise properties, lacked charm and elegance. The driveway entry from Gulf Shore Boulevard failed to showcase the beauty of the neighboring properties. The guard house entry felt outdated and unwelcoming, while the main garden was plugged with annuals that needed constant rotation.

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To address these issues, the driveway entry was updated to better reflect the beauty of the surroundings. The guard house entry was highlighted to create a more inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the main garden was redesigned with more sustainable landscaping options, reducing maintenance requirements and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

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A heartfelt thank you to the Monaco Board of Directors, the Monaco Management team, and all staff for your unwavering support and trust in our vision. We extend our gratitude to the Landscape Committee for overseeing the project with dedication. A special thank you goes out to Chandler Green https://www.greenheronlandscapes.com and his team, whose partnership made this endeavor seamless and beautiful. Additionally, we express our appreciation to Mark Stahlmanhttps://www.stahlman-england.com for his expertise in lighting and irrigation, which added the perfect finishing touches to the project!