Capturing the essence of luxury and architectural brilliance is always a rewarding challenge, and my team and I had the privilege of photographing this stunning residence in Stone Lake Ranch. Featured in the latest issue of Tampa Magazine, this masterpiece—designed by Debra Ackerbloom Interiors and built by Olivera Custom Homes—is a masterclass in immersive design. Blending modern aesthetics with rich textures and natural materials, every space, from the grand staircase to the secret lounge, was meticulously crafted to create a visually captivating and elegant living experience—making it a dream to photograph.
About the Shoot
Photographing this expansive home within a tight 9 AM – 5 PM window while the homeowner was away required a strategic and efficient approach. To maximize our time, my team and I relied primarily on available light, allowing us to move quickly through the space without extensive lighting setups. Using Capture One for tethered shooting, a Canon R5, and an Inovativ production cart, we streamlined our workflow while ensuring precision in every shot. A Mavic Pro 3 drone was also used to capture aerial perspectives that highlighted the home’s architectural presence. With two assistants handling logistics and the designer acting as the stylist, moving ahead to perfect each space before we arrived, we maintained a seamless rhythm throughout the shoot. The ability to work fast while still producing magazine-worthy images is a huge asset—one that ensures high-quality results even on the tightest schedules.
About the Home
In 2020, Benny Robles Jr. of Bartow Ford enlisted Debra Ackerbloom Interiors, Inc. and Olivera Custom Homes to design his new residence in Stone Lake Ranch, Thonotosassa. Completed in 2024, this two-story estate spans three acres and features seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, dual double-car garages, and a climate-controlled gym. The design harmoniously blends modern architecture with natural tones and textures, creating a dramatic and immersive luxury experience.
The interior, curated by principal designer Debra Ackerbloom and senior designer Jacinea Vela, showcases dynamic designs incorporating high-performance textiles and leathers. Their early involvement in the architectural planning ensured the home reflects Robles’ aesthetic preferences and passion for entertaining.
Upon entering through a custom pivot door, visitors are greeted by a grand staircase and a soaring great room adorned with large-format Calacatta Gold porcelain tile. The great room centers around a 15-by-15-foot custom sectional in performance fabric, complemented by ebony leather swivel chairs and aged brass tables.
The game room features a coffered ceiling, dark walnut hardwood planks, custom gaming tables, and a burnished porcelain fireplace. A tropical tank separates this space from the golf simulator. Hidden behind a concealed door, a circular staircase leads to the Secret Lounge, where a custom bar wrapped in vein-cut vanilla onyx is paired with black leather swivel bar stools accented in aged brass.
The master ensuite is designed with fireside swivel chairs, an upholstered platform bed, and seeded crystal pendants. The master bath showcases a double floating vanity set against a full wall of custom Italian glass tiles, with a Crema Delicato marble countertop blending seamlessly with Calacatta Gold porcelain floors and shower tiles.
This residence exemplifies a seamless fusion of modern design elements with natural materials, resulting in a space that is both dramatic and immersive. The thoughtful collaboration between the client, designers, and builders has culminated in a home that offers a luxurious and engaging living experience.
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