A 1955 Paul Rudolph home in Delray Beach, Florida, was restored to its original design after its new owners discovered a trove of 1950s photographs and hand-drawn plans hidden in a closet. Nina and Michael Marco of Casa de Marco Design purchased the former Sewell C. Biggs Residence in 2018, then spent six years reconstructing the 1,600-square-foot tropical modernist structure with architect Jeffrey Silberstein.
Balancing preservation with modern demands
The biggest challenge was reconciling the original 1955 steel framework with today’s coastal safety standards. The Marcos raised the structure to address flooding risks while keeping Rudolph’s vision intact. Michael Marco emphasized the importance of staying true to the architect’s intent, even when it required extra effort or cost.
The renovation preserved the original layout, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an raised glass pavilion, while adding contemporary elements. A two-story glass breezeway now connects the historic residence to a new addition featuring a high-end kitchen, two more bedrooms, and a garage. The breezeway serves as the architectural bridge between old and new, reflecting Nina Marco’s belief that historic spaces should be integrated into daily life rather than isolated.
One key decision was enclosing the original open-air entertainment area beneath the steel structure with sliding glass panels. This created a transparent ground floor that now functions as the home’s primary living and dining space, aligning with Rudolph’s original concept.
A modern take on mid-century materials
The exterior uses Extra White from Sherwin-Williams to highlight the exposed steel beams, while the interior features warm neutrals and natural wood textures. The kitchen’s floating island incorporates oyster-pebble terrazzo imported from Italy, a material Rudolph favored for its durability in coastal climates. Family heirlooms, vintage Lalique glassware, and original photographs of the home were also integrated to maintain authenticity.
For the Marcos, this project was about more than architecture; it was about preserving a piece of cultural history. By carefully selecting materials like terrazzo, aluminum, and natural stone, they ensured the home would age gracefully while remaining functional for future generations. The result is a seamless blend of mid-century design and modern coastal living.
Outside, lush tropical landscaping and a contoured swimming pool reinforce the home’s connection to its surroundings. The color palette, sand, sea, and sky, fades into the environment, allowing the structure to feel like an extension of its environment rather than an intrusion.
