This remarkable space which occupies the 15th floor of Siesta Key’s Terrace Building is a fascinating study in contrast. The starkness of exposed concrete and steel is not lost on this project—rather, turned into an advantage, lending a utilitarian, ultra-cool effect. The incorporation of rich tones and finishes secures a homey feel.

“The glossy concrete surface extends through the entire condominium, tying the large unit together and giving it a sense of space,” remarks architect Michael Halflants, with regard to the character provided, and insight lent, to the original construction process. The unifying of woods into the buildout is multipurpose—not only does it provide sleekness and warmth, but the panels also cleverly conceal the inner workings of the house, including ducts, speakers, vents and the air conditioning unit. After thorough research, the client was drawn to Halflants + Pichette Studio for Modern Architecture in Sarasota for their expertise in modern design. These artistic professionals acted as masters of disguise, using discreet cuts and perforations in the wood veneer so function is camouflaged and only beauty is perceived. It’s an intriguing vantage point from which unobstructed views of the Gulf, the Bay, and the city can be absorbed and enjoyed.
Two units were combined into one seamless, cohesive whole making the residence expansive and comfortable. Sliding doors encompass the unit on three sides, so it doesn’t feel enclosed despite lower ceiling heights that personified the era in which the condo was originally built. “The original windows were replaced by a series of seven-panel bi-fold glass doors that open out from the structural corners of the unit,” explains Halflants. “When open, all of the exterior walls of the unit disappear to open up to the long view over the ocean and the island. The breeze can drift through the unit uninterrupted.”
Owner Susan Donnelly fell so deeply in love with the finished product, which met and exceeded all expectations, that she and her husband decided to purchase another unit for her mother-in-law one floor below. “We spend more and more time at our beautiful home on Siesta Key,” expresses Donnelly. “We are able to entertain guests, watch the gorgeous sunset, or just sit and relax in paradise!”
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The unobstructed living room views are breathtaking. The original popcorn ceiling was entirely stripped to expose the original concrete formwork. The design-build team of Halflants + Pichette added a clear finish coat to give it a reflective sheen. Furnishings were selected for their sculptural form, comfort, and weightlessness, such as the B&B Italia couch by Antonio Citterio, and swivel chair by Jeffrey Bernett.

​Though you wouldn’t know by looking at it, the master bath has all the magic of a Smart Home. The room borrows light from an adjoining space through a window with a switchable electric film. At the touch of a switch, the glass turns white to provide additional privacy. When off, a view of sunrise or of the beach can be enjoyed from that very spot. The Porcelanosa Harlem Acero tile used on the floor and shower walls is from Sticks and Stones Flooring.

Giusti, who graduated from USF in 2008, realized the need for architectural design and fabrication when he was working for an architecture firm in Tampa. He started small by making components on his own on the weekend.

Now, the enterprise is Giusti’s main focus. Modulo recently acquired an entire warehouse in Tampa with enough space to accommodate their busy schedule. At one point in October of 2018, the firm found itself with 25 active projects.

So far, the success of Modulo has happened organically without the need to advertise or spend energy promoting themselves. Clients seek out the small firm because of the quality work they do.
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“We have the sign for the building, but it’s hiding in the attic. We never installed it; we never had the time,” said Giusti. “People know where to find us. We’re living the dream of the 1950s, where you go to the carpenter because they are so good, and you keep going back, and you tell your neighbor, ‘you should use these people.’”