In the peaceful enclave of Summerplace, where the roads remain unpaved and the vibe is historically eclectic, John and Trish Essick transformed 1881 E. Pebble Path in a way that honors the neighborhood’s Bohemian roots.
Thick with the scent of salt spray and blooming jasmine, the quiet neighborhood has maintained the “Old Florida” charm that originally drew artists to the area decades ago. The roads consist of soft sand and crushed shell under a canopy of live oaks and oversized sea grapes, encouraging you to wend your way to the ocean.
The recently updated home maintains its beachy soul but with a modern, updated interior.
“As the designers of this property, my husband and I drew inspiration from our cherished memories of growing up near the beach,” shares Trish.
From basketweave tile accents to high-end appliances, the home reflects a keen eye for simple, sophisticated coastal design.
“The design features a spacious deck perfect for grilling and gatherings, a luxurious pool ideal for both relaxation and socializing, and inviting areas for card games and conversation,” she continues. “This house was envisioned as a vibrant backdrop for joyful moments, where loved ones could connect and build lasting memories together.”
“They really transformed this into something special,” says Realtor Elizabeth Sorensen. “It was that traditional, funky wood style. They’ve kept that spirit – even keeping the original roofline – but everything else is brand new.”
“We aimed to create a haven for families and friends, embodying the essence of beachside living,” says Trish.
The architecture strikes a balance between coastal sophistication and the island’s natural beauty. A permeable concrete ribbon driveway anchors the front of the property, tucked among mature trees that lend the home a sense of established privacy.
The facade is softened by eyebrow pergolas that cast shadows over the garage and the front entry. Ocean-blue shutters add a splash of color against the modern siding. It is a welcoming, intentional seaside sanctuary.
A full-lite door opens into the living room, where sliding glass doors lead to a covered lanai, providing full access to the outdoor living area. A powder room, primary suite and garage complete the first level.
Next to the front door, a staircase with clear balustrade with Lucite handrails leads to the second level.
The layout uses an “upside-down” floor plan that redefines the relationship between the indoors and the surrounding environment, notes Sorensen. By elevating the communal living, dining and kitchen areas to the second story, the home becomes a luxurious modern treehouse.
The geometry of the beamed, cathedral ceiling draws the eye upward, where soft, diffused light expands into every corner, perfectly illuminating the natural-wood staircase treads and vaulted beams. This structural detail is seamlessly paired with a white palette and stainless-steel appliances in the expansive upstairs common area, a versatile space adjoining the kitchen and dining room that is currently used as an airy living room.
A large island with seating anchors the space, featuring modern cabinetry and high-end finishes with ample room to entertain. The large deck expands the indoor-outdoor living space for guests and friends.
From this elevated perch level, the perspective shifts. There’s a sense of “living in the canopy,” where you are eye-level with the birds flitting through the leaves. With the cable railings – strands of stainless-steel cable that create a modern, minimalist appearance – you are immersed in a breezy, green sanctuary.
An outdoor, double staircase descends to the pool and backyard, so you can come and go from either level without disturbing anyone. If you have family visiting, everyone has their own entrance and exit. It’s a home designed for a modern, multigenerational lifestyle.
With an ensuite primary bedroom on the ground floor and two additional bedrooms plus an additional suite upstairs, the home offers versatility for full-time residents or those looking for a floor plan that accommodates multiple generations.
Sited on one of the largest lots in Summerplace, east of A1A, the serene, resort-like sanctuary has plenty of room for fun. The pool has a turf surround and a feature wall at the end that blends structure with the movement of water. A focal point of the outdoor space, the waterfall provides a soothing cadence.
There’s plenty of room for pets and children to run around in the shade and store your beach toys. Plus, you’re just steps from the beach.
“This particular street offers its own gated, beach access,” Sorensen explains. “It isn’t just a public path; it’s a private, coded entry to the Atlantic that only residents of this block can access,” providing a pristine shoreline without crowds.
“The neighbors love what they’ve done here,” Sorensen says. “They didn’t just tear something down; they honored the feel of the neighborhood while bringing it up to today’s standards.”
Summerplace is a hidden treasure not far from the Wabasso Causeway, offering easy access to the mainland, the Historic Jungle Trail, and the Environmental Learning Center for nature enthusiasts. It’s just a short, scenic trip down A1A to Vero’s Ocean Drive for shopping and dining or for cultural activities at the Vero Beach Museum of Art and Riverside Theatre. Numerous country clubs and golf courses are nearby, along with excellent river and ocean fishing grounds.
Vital Statistics
1881 E. Pebble Path
Neighborhood: Summerplace • Year built: 1985
Construction: Concrete block • View: Pool and garden
Lot size: 100 feet by 135 feet • Home size: 2,236 square feet
Bedrooms: 4 • Bathrooms: 3 full baths and 1 half-bath
Additional features: Two-story; open floor plan; island kitchen; gas range; tile floors; jetted tub; walk-in shower; covered lanai; deck; impact doors and windows; one-car garage; metal roof; fenced backyard; and granted beach access.
Listing agency: Dale Sorensen Real Estate
Listing agent: Elizabeth Sorensen, 772-713-5512
Listing price: $1,999,999
Photos provided
