Created and composed by
brooke deems & dani Papa
MAIN IDEA:
When guests step into the lobby of the newly opened Olde Naples Hotel on Third Street South, they are immediately greeted by a striking visual centerpiece: a sprawling installation of 148 curated cubbies that tell the story of Naples' past, present, and enduring connection to the Gulf.
Conceived and curated by Gardner Colby Gallery, the installation was thoughtfully assembled in intentional layers, with each wave of objects building upon the hotel's vision of honoring local history, coastal heritage, and community collaboration. The result is far more than a decorative display—it is a living narrative that invites guests to explore the people, places, and traditions that shaped Olde Naples.
At the heart of the installation is a partnership with the Naples Historical Society, whose archival materials provide the historical foundation for the entire project. Large-scale reproductions of archival photographs anchor the five largest cubbies, offering glimpses into Naples' early architecture, landscapes, and daily life during the hotel's originating era. These images are paired with period objects such as oil lamps, barometers, postcards, and other historical pieces, creating layered vignettes that transport viewers to the early 1900s while lending authenticity and depth to the installation.
Complementing these historical elements are carefully sourced antiques that evoke Florida's maritime and sporting heritage. Throughout the cubbies, guests will discover vintage fishing reels and lures, spyglasses, old cameras, and floating glass buoys nestled within fishing nets. These objects create a sense of discovery and adventure, reflecting the coastal lifestyle and spirit of exploration that have long defined Southwest Florida.
To further ground the installation in Naples' seaside identity, an array of natural coastal treasures is woven throughout the display. Shells, starfish, sand dollars, barnacle clusters, coral specimens, and glass buoys are thoughtfully arranged among the historical objects, while larger statement pieces are elevated to showcase their sculptural beauty. These organic elements reinforce the hotel's connection to the Gulf, adding texture, warmth, and a tangible sense of place.
The installation also incorporates small contemporary artworks thoughtfully woven throughout the installation, adding moments of color and visual interest that connect Naples' rich history with its thriving creative community. Custom brass accents and elegant tassels with keys complement the hotel's timeless character, while the intentional placement of every object creates a cohesive balance between storytelling, discovery, and design across all 148 cubbies.
The completed installation stands as both an artwork and a storytelling experience, weaving together history, nature, craftsmanship, and community spirit. More than a decorative feature, it serves as a window into the character of Naples—honoring the people, landscapes, and traditions that have shaped the city while offering guests a meaningful sense of connection from the moment they arrive at Olde Naples Hotel.
Most of the items in this installation were sourced locally. If you would like more information about any of the items or vendors, visit us in-person and we'd be happy to assist you with the information.
