ESTERO, Fla., Jan. 24, 2017 – Newcomers to the Naples area often wonder about the amazingly diverse houses located along Gulf Shore Boulevard and Gordon Drive. These homes range from modest single-story cottages built decades ago to modern multi-story mansions that tower high above the sand, yet they all have one thing in common: Each looks out over the beach to the sparkling Gulf of Mexico, and each has a story to tell.
Robert and Carole Leher, authors of the 252-page coffee table book, “Naples Beach Homes: Cottages, Castles, and the Families That Built Them,” have dedicated the last four years to uncovering these fascinating stories, which they will share with the public Thursday, Feb. 9 at Miromar Design Center. The seminar will begin at 11 a.m. followed by a reception and book signing hosted by MP Interiors and Lee Industries in Suite 302.
Residents of Naples, Robert and Carole Leher have talked to homeowners past and present and gathered their testimonies about living on the beach. In both text and photographs, the authors have profiled many of the homes that overlook the beach today. The narrative also journeys back in time to explore some of the historic houses that graced the beach in days gone by.
Enhanced by the original artwork of Naples artist Paul Arsenault and highlighted with current and vintage photography, the book offers an overview of beachfront homes and homeowners whose legacies live on in the lore of Naples. Normally retailed for $65, the book will be available at the event for $50 with net proceeds benefiting the Naples Historical Society.
This event is part of a national Lee Loves Local initiative sponsored by Lee Industries during February. Throughout the day there will be other related events held at Miromar Design Center including multiple jewelry and custom rug trunk shows.
The purpose of Lee Loves Local is to bring back brick-and-mortar shops and support local businesses. Since 1969, Lee Industries has been handcrafting American made upholstery in North Carolina. MP Interiors is a showroom at Miromar Design Center that carries products made by Lee Industries.
The presentation is free and open to the public; however, seating is limited and reservations are required. Register online by Feb. 6 at MiromarDesignCenter.com. For information about the many other events at Miromar Design Center, call (239) 390-8203. Miromar Design Center is located at I-75, Exit 123 and Corkscrew Road in Estero, across from Miromar Outlets.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Presentation on Naples beach homes followed by a reception and book signing
WHO: Presented by authors Robert and Carole Leher
WHERE: Miromar Design Center in Estero (across from Miromar Outlets)
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
HOW: Register at MiromarDesignCenter.com or call (239) 390-8203