REAL Magazine

Marilyn Schroeter

Platinum Coast Construction

BUILDING WITH INTEGRITY

By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

Photography by Giovanni Lunardi

Wardrobe by Saks Fifth Avenue

Growing up in a historical Tudor home in Pennsylvania that she describes as “fascinating,” Marilyn Schroeter learned at an early age the value of form and function in architecture. After graduating from Duke University with a double major, Marilyn began a successful run as an investment advisor for Merrill Lynch in North Carolina. Following her move to Florida, Marilyn began pursuing her longtime interest in building and design and discovered that she was perfectly suited for the construction business, as a certified, licensed contractor.

Marilyn’s first building project, a 5,000 square foot, custom-designed medical office and therapeutic facility for an orthopedic surgeon, afforded her the unique opportunity of development from the ground-up. She found she enjoyed the intricacies involved in taking a project from idea to fruition. “I designed the office from scratch, on graph paper,” she recalls. “The architect’s final plans reflected all of my initial designs. My ability to visualize the completed project, before being built, is a definite advantage.”

Shortly thereafter, Marilyn embarked upon her first high-end, custom, residential project, a stunning 6,000 square foot waterfront home that she designed, built and decorated. From pulling permits to hiring subcontractors to dressing the interior, she says that she found the process to be “a wonderful experience” that afforded her firsthand knowledge of the numerous issues and challenges facing homeowners seeking to create a customized high-end quality home of distinction.

Since then, Marilyn has worked with numerous commercial and luxury residential builds, along with high-end remodeling projects. Her most recent commercial remodel just won her the Make Manatee Beautiful Award. A natural-born problem solver, she counts her ability to incorporate workable ideas and her steadfast integrity as two invaluable assets. “I always choose to do what is right for my clients,” she asserts.

Marilyn’s commitment to her clients runs deep; her strong financial background helps to facilitate a smooth building experience while at the same time controlling costs. Her impeccable attention to detail ensures that problems are minimal. The foundation is set with strong communication between Marilyn and her clients, as well as the architect and her subcontractors. “I work closely with my clients to incorporate their unique signatures, looking out for their best interests while at the same time executing the plans,” she explains. “I’m listening to their wants and their needs, and seek to create an environment that suits their lifestyle perfectly.  It helps to be a perfectionist!” she says with a laugh.

High-end homes demand high quality workmanship, and Marilyn seeks out excellence in her subcontractor base. “I work with wonderful subs, real artisans,” she says. “It is important to find people who take pride in their work, whose ultimate goal is to provide a quality job for the client. I hire only the best, because ultimately they will reflect the excellence of my work.” The results are impressive. From contemporary to traditional, in both her homes and office buildings, Marilyn’s commitment to quality and strong sense of style is unparalleled.

“The legacy I am able to leave my clients is a product that is not only well built, but as lovely as it is functional,” she explains. “I am passionate about this, and I genuinely enjoy the completion of each and every ‘platinum’ level project.” Indeed, she is helping to create a new generation of homes and offices which may one day inspire future designers and builders to pursue their own passions.

Weaving herself into the fabric of the community, Marilyn is involved with a variety of local organizations and charitable associations. She has served as chairperson of  the Ungala Gala which benefits the Ringling Museum, the Lung Ball benefiting the Cancer Society, and the Snooty Ball benefiting the South Florida Museum. She is also an active member of Sarasota/Bradenton Debutante Committee which benefits the Youth Orchestra of the Sarasota Orchestra. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” she remarks. “It is an honor to be able to use my time and resources to give back to my community.”

Something very important happens when form follows function. “I’m building dream homes that ultimately enhance my clients’ lives,” Marilyn says. “When everything comes together, it is perfection.”

Marilyn Schroeter
President & CEO
Platinum Coast Construction
941-545-7777
www.platinumcoastinc.com