River House - A place where design, nature and history converge in perfect balance

Interior by Design Studio JAC | Architecture by Melhorn | Photography and film by Pilar Shoots

Perched on the top of a 30-foot bluff where a historic pineapple plantation once thrived, this estate is a masterful blend of architecture, history, and artistry. 

Framed by ancient oaks and banyan trees, it offers sweeping views of the St. Lucie River, where the sunsets stretch endlessly. Every element of the home reflects a meticulous approach to materiality and craftsmanship. Collaboration was at the heart of this project. To create a seamless dialogue between architecture and interiors, the design team invited the architect on a journey from the U.S. to Belgium, immersing him in their world. 
Together, they explored the ateliers of artisans, walked through stone yards, traced the grain of vintage wood, and studied the quiet depth of lime plaster. They introduced him to the artists and craftspeople who shape their interiors, weaving history, texture, and soul into every element. They stood before works of art that would inform the soul of this house, ensuring that each space carried a story of its own.
The result is a home where history and modernity intertwine. Antique wood beams and vintage woodwork, sourced from Belgium, lend a sense of time and permanence. 
Materials and artistic elements from across Europe find harmony in this South Florida retreat.
“A place where design, nature, and history converge in perfect balance.”
Living room with white sofas, beige armchairs, black coffee tables, and large sliding glass doors, with a fireplace and wooden ceiling beams.
A minimalist interior hallway with multiple doorways creating a repeating tunnel effect. Light-colored tiles on the floor, white and wooden walls, and a plant on the left. There's a piece of artwork on the right wall.
Interior of a modern dining room with a wooden table, upholstered chairs, a potted plant, abstract artwork, and a side table with a decorative vase and stone.
Living room with a beige sectional sofa, a black side table with a white lamp, a pair of books, and a large abstract black and white painting on the wall.
A dining area with a wooden table, four wooden chairs with cane backs and white cushions, a black ceramic vase, and a view of trees through large windowpanes, with a modern ceiling light fixture and beige curtains.
Modern kitchen with a stainless steel stove, wooden cabinetry, and a wooden floor, featuring beige canisters on a shelf.
A neatly made bed with beige bedding and pillows in a minimalist bedroom. On each side of the bed, there are matching nightstands with white lamps and decorative items. Above the bed hangs an abstract textured artwork.
Minimalist kitchen with a window, a black potted plant on a light stone countertop, a black faucet, and a closed white door in the background.
A hallway with light wood walls and dark wood floor, featuring an abstract painting on the far wall.
A minimalist kitchen with a wooden cabinet, a black faucet, a small black knob, a wooden cutting board, and three black bowls on a wooden shelf.
Modern living room with a circular seating arrangement, black armchairs, a round coffee table with candles on it, and large glass doors leading to an outdoor patio with greenery.
A minimalist bedroom with a large bed, white bedding, and three pillows. There are two black reading lamps attached to the headboard. To the right, there is a white cushioned chair with black metal arms and legs. The room features a built-in closet with a simple handle design and a charcoal-colored handle. Light curtains are on the window to the far right. The floor is carpeted with a neutral tone.
Bright living room with large glass windows showing view of trees and rocks outside, white sofa, wooden chair, coffee table with books and plant, off-white curtains, and a cream-colored carpet.
Modern house with large glass windows, concrete walls, and a flat roof, surrounded by tall grass and trees.
Outdoor seating area with a beige cushioned chair and a matching sofa with beige cushions, wooden frames, and a wooden table, surrounded by greenery.
Modern house with large glass windows surrounded by tropical palm trees and beach grass, with a sandy pathway in the foreground.
A modern house situated on a hillside with multiple levels, surrounded by greenery and trees, with a wooden staircase leading up to the entrance.