St. Augustine’s Cedar Shake Retreat Becomes Reality After 21-Year Journey
In St. Augustine, Florida, Caryn Karinshak recently celebrated the completion of her dream home, dubbed Cedar Shake Retreat, after a 21-year journey. This unique home is a testament to the memories and experiences the Karinshak family has amassed over the years.
Who Are the Karinshaks?
The Karinshak family, consisting of Caryn, her husband Tom, and their three children, has a rich history intertwined with various locations. Caryn, raised in Atlanta and a graduate of Florida State University, moved to Jacksonville with her best friend. It was here that she met Tom, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, at that same friend’s wedding. The couple welcomed their first child, Carter, in 2000.
What is Cedar Shake Retreat?
Cedar Shake Retreat is a newly constructed home that reflects the family’s values and heritage. The home features various design elements, including natural materials and a layout favoring family gatherings. Caryn wanted the home to have a welcoming atmosphere for her grown children and their friends.
Where is it Located?
Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway in St. Augustine, Florida, the Karinshaks chose this location for its beauty and community spirit. They previously resided in Northern Virginia and Wilmington, Delaware, before returning to Florida in 2023.
When Did the Construction Happen?
Construction of Cedar Shake Retreat began in 2020, during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Building from 850 miles away, Caryn collaborated closely with designer Kelly Challberg of Draper Grey Interiors. The home was completed in July 2023.
Why is This Home Special?
The home holds deep sentimental value for the family. Key features include reclaimed bricks from Tom’s childhood home, now part of an outdoor fireplace, which add a personal touch. “It’s a conversation starter,” says Challberg. “The family has come full circle, and it’s really special.”
Design Highlights
Every aspect of Cedar Shake Retreat has been thoughtfully designed. Caryn emphasized the importance of using real wood in the home’s construction, aiming for materials that would “gracefully age” over time. The exterior showcases cedar shake siding, reminiscent of the farmhouse style she admires.
The interior color scheme features a gradient of blues, reflecting the home’s coastal surroundings. A children’s room is adorned with nautical elements, including boat cleats on custom-made bunk beds. The pool area creates a resort-like atmosphere, with sand-blasted marble flooring, built-in stools with glow-in-the-dark tiles, and a swim-up bar.
Conclusion
Caryn expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to create this home. “We put our heart and soul into the home. We feel so blessed,” she stated. Cedar Shake Retreat is not just a house; it’s a celebration of family, memories, and a long-awaited dream come true.
