Fieldstone A&E was honored to collaborate with Pulte West Florida on a truly distinctive project—an amenity campus designed to celebrate the enduring legacy of the DePue family ranch. Named after Vida DePue, the family matriarch, this community reflects generations of resilience, hard work, and deeply rooted values.
“The design wasn’t just about aesthetics or function; it was about storytelling,” explains Fieldstone A&E Senior Client Manager Chad Crystal, “Everything was inspired by Vida DePue, and the generations that followed her. That foundation gave the project a soul and made it one of the most meaningful I’ve had the chance to work on.”
Through thoughtful design and storytelling, Vida’s Way blends the land’s rich agricultural heritage with a forward-looking vision that will resonate with generations to come.
A STORY WORTH TELLING
The DePue family’s land, rich with history dating back to the 1840s, was once a bustling mix of cattle, citrus, timber, and turpentine farming. When the time came to develop the property, the family chose a path that would preserve their legacy. Pulte Homes, in collaboration with a dedicated design team, embraced the family’s story and brought it to life through architecture and community planning. Even the community dog park tells a story. Named in honor of the family’s beloved dogs, Fudge and Rusty, the park features a custom sign with their silhouettes.
“Throughout the process, Pulte’s commitment to honoring the DePue family’s heritage was truly inspiring. Every decision, every design choice, was made with thoughtfulness, deep respect, and care. As part of the team, it challenged us to think beyond buildings and the typical design process. We were creating a place that needed to reflect memories, traditions, and a lasting tribute to the DePue family,” explains Fieldstone A&E Interior Design Manager Natasha Ellis.
DESIGN THAT REFLECTS THE PAST
The Vida’s Way Legacy clubhouse is a standout example of storytelling through design. According to Dan Langefels, Fieldstone A&E Chief Design Officer the design of the Clubhouse was inspired by reflecting on how generational farms grow a family compound of buildings over time.
“The Clubhouse layout has distinct zones all connected by a common roof and breezeways,” Dan explains. “At the heart of the building is a large open-air covered family gathering space that flows seamlessly into covered verandas and the pool deck beyond. The individual spaces interact visually with all the other spaces, allowing family members to stay connected while enjoying different activities.”
These distinct modules give the impression of a compound that evolved with the family.
Inside and out, every detail leans into the theme:
- The “Corral” breezeway connects spaces like a traditional farmstead.
- The “Watering Hole” bar adds a playful nod to ranch life.
- Porch swings and rocking chairs invite residents to slow down and connect.
- Beauty in the details such as two tone wood beam truss integrating V & W
- Tile that mimics rustic wood offers durability without sacrificing charm.
Vida’s Way Legacy offers so many amazing features to its residents. The clubhouse includes a fitness center, game room, bar and a resort style pool with splash features and cabanas. In addition, there are pickleball courts, cornhole, BBQ area and covered playground.
BRINGING THE VISION TO LIFE
It was a privilege to work with the Pulte team on this one-of-a-kind project. From early visioning sessions to completion, the project was a full-scope effort—architecture, engineering, interior design, procurement and marketing all working in harmony. The result is a community that feels authentic, welcoming, and deeply personal.
“The most rewarding moment came at the very end—when the family saw the completed clubhouse and community for the first time,” Crystal explains. “Their emotional reaction, their appreciation for the details and care taken by everyone involved—it was deeply touching. Seeing the design resonate so deeply with the family reminded me why we do what we do.”
Natasha adds, “Standing there at the completion of Vida’s Way, seeing the family members’ reactions, was unforgettable. It was more than pride in the work; it was knowing we had a hand in preserving something meaningful. I’m truly grateful to have been part of it, from start to finish.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Located just across the street from Vida’s Way Legacy, the next phase led by Pulte West Florida is in development.
“In Vida’s Way Heritage, we’re designing a Pool Cabana that follows the same design style and storytelling approach as the clubhouse. The goal is to continue that sense of legacy and cohesion across the communities, while also expanding the amenities for residents of the community,” explains Crystal.