Brett/Robinson Real Estate & Development: A Modern Vision for Gulf Coast Living

Over 50 years ago, brothers Tillis and Gene Brett joined forces with builder Tommy Robinson to launch what would become one of the most recognizable development names along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. With a modest investment of $500, they built the company from the ground up through door-to-door sales. In 1985, everything changed when one of their properties burned down. From its ashes rose the company’s first Phoenix condominium, a name chosen for the mythical bird that would come to define the brand

Today, Brett/Robinson Real Estate & Development operates across real estate, new construction, and rental management in Alabama, with its signature Phoenix condominium line continuing to grow and offer owners a uniquely personalized experience. This ongoing growth has brought renewed focus to the team working directly with owners throughout the build process.

Customization as a Signature

At the center of the process are construction coordinators Lauren Hart and Lauren King. Together, they guide pre-construction buyers through every finish: flooring, cabinetry, countertops, tile, lighting, hardware, paint, and more. They also coordinate small layout adjustments with the project management team.

While the architect provides the base floor plans and finishes, nearly every owner personalizes their unit. “Every owner gets to come in. It’s almost like each one’s a custom home,” Lauren King explains. Within the limits of the construction scope, buyers can upgrade materials, adjust details, and tailor their space to their taste.

This level of customization is rare in large-scale condo development. “Other developers have told us they would never do what we do,” Lauren King says. “It takes a lot of effort to keep up with the details, but this is something our customers have asked for.” The approach has become a defining part of the company’s appeal, helping owners achieve a more finished, move-in-ready condominium.

A New Cambria Connection

Brett/Robinson Real Estate & Development began using Cambria within the past year, introduced through its fabricator, Paradise Granite. The relationship started while developing finish packages for Phoenix Key, a new luxury condominium building where Cambria is used exclusively throughout. “Everything in Phoenix Key needed to be the highest quality, and that’s how Cambria came into the conversation,” says Lauren King.

Once Cambria samples were placed in the design office, owners of other projects, including the featured Gulf Shores II penthouse, began upgrading immediately. “I had four owners upgrade right when they saw the new samples,” Lauren Hart notes.

Beyond the designs, customers appreciate Cambria’s made-in-the-USA quality and transferable Full Lifetime Warranty, especially important for vacation rentals that demand durable, dependable materials.

Featured Project 

The Gulf Shores II penthouse showcases how Cambria can guide an entire design direction. Portrush was selected by Justin Pate who is the Brett/Robinson Real Estate Agent representing the owners of the project.

Portrush clads the countertops, oversized island, and full-height backsplash behind the range, creating a cohesive and dramatic appearance. The resulting aesthetic is coastal modern, blending navy and white cabinetry with warm hardwood floors to keep the space elevated and inviting.

Designing for Today’s Coastal Client

With every high-rise unit overlooking the Gulf, coastal influence remains a steady thread. However, the team is noticing a shift in what buyers believe will help their units sell or rent. After years of sea-salt walls, soft blues, and cool grays, warmer tones are returning. “I think we’ll see a lot of beige coming back—browns, neutrals, and some dark accents,” Lauren Hart says.

At the same time, they see a recurring misconception among buyers: that safer, neutral choices will appeal to more people and therefore sell faster. In practice, the opposite is often true. “People think going neutral will appeal to the masses, but when you put the bolder materials on camera, they really do shine. Those choices bring an energy and edge you just don’t get from playing it safe,” Lauren Hart explains.

Moving into Florida

Since 2013, Brett/Robinson Real Estate & Development has built six properties across Alabama’s coast. Now underway are Phoenix Key and Phoenix South Point in Orange Beach as well as a new project in Florida: Phoenix Perdido. Only minutes from the state line, it will be the company’s first development in Florida.

As the company grows into new markets, the spirit of its earliest days remains unchanged. Just as the Phoenix name suggests, Brett/Robinson Real Estate & Development continues to rise—driven by resilience and a commitment to quality.