The lobby and lounge also display a lot of art. Chief among the paintings is a quartet of watercolors by Linda Kauffmann; they depict four 18th- and 19th-century sea captains. One of the portraits bears a suspicious resemblance to Marina Tower resident, Dick Donegan, a man known for his love of boats. Matted in luxurious silk, the four portraits were framed by William Hartman. Hanging above an English mahogany sideboard, they are a focal point of the lounge.

The dome ceiling is lit with tiny fiber optics "stars" that twinkle in the dusky sky. And if you look out the mahogany-encased porthole (a window detail that architect Gary Hoyt added for whimsy) you enjoy a majestic view of Sarasota Bay. The walls and built-ins are rich mahogany. Marvin's Woodworking did the millwork, and Dale Rieke was the master carpenter for the project. Rieke rendered the concierge desk as a ship's bow and Kreissle Forge created custom ironwork for a curving staircase railing that descends to the ground level.

Luxurious as the materials and furnishings are, the sofas and club chairs, pedestal tables, and lamps adhere to the proportions of a residential living room in Harbor Acres or Cherokee Park. "Scale is crucial," says Judy Graham. "The lobby and lounge have to be comfortable for residents who want to gather here to watch a ball game or get a book from the library shelves or just to relax and chat with friends. Approaching a condominium lobby really is like decorating your own living room, except that you have more people to please."

LOBBYING FOR THE BEST

Tips from Judy Graham.

[] Fresh flowers and greenery, whether a potted palm, ferns on a pedestal or a bouquet of seasonal flowers, add warmth and visual richness to your foyer design.

[] In a small foyer, a mirror can expand the space and add more light. Also, it gives people a chance to check their appearance coming and going.

[] Ceramic tiles or wood planks laid on the diagonal will visually enlarge a narrow foyer. An Oriental rug or runner adds sophistication.

[] Use furniture styles consistent with the rest of the home. Same for paint and wall coverings. The foyer sets the tone of the decorating scheme.

[] Lighting is critical. A chandelier adds importance and is beautiful. If you have a low ceiling, use flush-mounted or recessed lighting instead. Consider wall sconces, too. Include lamps on a table if the foyer is large enough. And, always put a dimmer on all foyer lights.

[] If you have no entrance foyer, play up the front door. Add molding around the door frame and to the door itself. Paint or stain the door an inviting color. How about some stained or beveled glass? And put some fresh plants near the entrance. Again, pay attention to lighting. A soft glow around the door should welcome visitors.