Madison Keys Transforms Florida Home with Fan Input and Creative Design

Professional tennis player Madison Keys is not only making waves on the court but also in home design as she embarks on a journey to restore her charming Florida home. After winning her first Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open, Keys, alongside her husband and coach Bjorn Fratangelo, decided to find a residence that resonated more with their personalities than their previous suburban dwelling.

The couple discovered a 1930s Spanish-style casita in Orlando, which captured Keys' heart despite its awkward additions. "I have to save this house. I know what it can be," she recalled expressing her enthusiasm upon purchasing the property in 2022. With the help of local design team Faith and Seth Freytag of Concrete to Cotton, they aimed to merge the home’s distinct sections into a cohesive and charming living space.

One of the key elements of this renovation was enhancing the entryway to accommodate Keys' extensive collection of tennis gear. Faith Freytag noted that custom cabinets were designed specifically to manage the clutter of bags and equipment. The couple also aimed to create inviting spaces for entertaining, including a striking dining area featuring a custom banquette upholstered in bold tiger-print fabric from Sarah Sherman Samuel.

Throughout the renovation process, Keys actively engaged her social media followers, soliciting their advice on various aspects of the redesign. A particularly useful tip from a fan was to create paper mockups of kitchen cabinets to visualize storage options, which proved invaluable as the kitchen took shape.

As a professional athlete frequently on the move, Keys cherishes her home even more. The creative process of decorating has allowed her to explore a new side of herself, leading to her involvement in painting and design. "I started pushing myself a little bit more and getting a little bit more creative," she shared, highlighting how these new interests have boosted her confidence, both personally and professionally.

The heart of the home, the kitchen, features a blend of white and cappuccino cabinetry from Designcraft, complemented by an elegant zellige tile backsplash and arch. As Fratangelo is the designated cook, the couple enjoys spending quality time together in this space, which they’ve tailored to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

In the primary bedroom, relaxation is paramount, with cozy Quince bedding and a Crate & Barrel light fixture enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. Guests are treated to comfort in an inviting room furnished with an Arhaus bed and stylish nightstands.

Keys emphasized the importance of showcasing her life beyond tennis, noting how sharing her design journey with fans has allowed her to connect on a deeper level. "It was fun to be able to show people some of the other interests that I have," she said. Through her home’s transformation, Madison Keys is not just building a space to live but also crafting a narrative that reflects her evolving identity.

Source: www.architecturaldigest.com