Along the serene waters of the Tomoka Preserve stands a Mediterranean palazzo of rare distinction, created to be a piece of art in its own right. A scenic drive through the preserve, lined with majestic palms draped in Spanish moss, brings you to this private waterfront estate that offers a perfect balance of elegance and tranquility. Resting on 1.25 acres of private lagoon front, this award-winning custom estate offers both prestige and seclusion, its presence as timeless as the palaces that inspired it. Blending elegance with nature, occasionally a family of deer may greet you and watch you canoeing or fishing directly from your backyard.
Positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the home greets visitors with a regal canopy entrance and a sweeping circular driveway. Venetian columns and an Italian curved terracotta roof set the stage for romance and permanence. The wide driveways, paver-lined paths, and tropical landscaping speak to meticulous care. A life-size “Signora dell’Acqua” fountain (lady of the water) and river rock gardens complete the essence of a Mediterranean retreat. As you enter the main gate, you are immediately transported to a 2,294-square-foot screened courtyard, completely private yet alive with possibility. A picturesque stone bridge across the lagoon-style water reminds you of Venice.
A travertine pool complex features a waterfall, dipping pool, heated spa with bubbler, and a main saltwater heated pool with a swim-up bar. Between the spa and the pool is a water veil that creates a water curtain to the main pool. Controllable LED lighting transforms evenings into magical gatherings. Outdoor dining is elevated with hand-painted frescoed walls, a roofed kitchen and grill, and an oversized fireplace that anchors the lanai.
Inside, you are amazed by soaring ceilings—some rising to 16 feet—with hand-plastered walls and frescos that evoke the artistry of Italy. Eight grand crystal chandeliers illuminate spaces designed as much for spectacle as for comfort.
The Grand Room serves as the home’s centerpiece, with panoramic views of the river and courtyard. The chamber of custom display cabinetry is complemented by a wine and coffee bar complete with a cast-iron French door and frescos of the Italian countryside. Pocketing glass doors dissolve the boundaries between indoors and out, inviting breezes from the lagoon.
The grand kitchen combines elegance with function: Monogram appliances, a six-burner stove with a griddle, double ovens, dual Fisher & Paykel dishwashers, floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry, and a granite island that seats up to nine. A spacious walk-in pantry, serving stations, and abundant storage make entertaining effortless.
The master suite is a private sanctuary with oversized windows, direct access to the outdoor spa, and a hand-painted frescoed hallway leading to dual vanities and an expansive stone double shower. Two oversized walk-in closets—crowned with crystal chandeliers and solid wood shelving—ensure storage is as elegant as it is functional.
Additional bedrooms include a guest suite with a private courtyard entrance, a junior suite chamber with majestic French doors, and a flexible room designed for use as a media lounge or a bedroom, complete with direct veranda access.
Beyond the bedrooms, the estate surprises at every turn. A walnut-clad office conceals a secret “Hide-Away Room,” perfect for treasures or retreat. The Relaxation Room features a grand fireplace and river views, while the Card Room opens to the dining space. Even the foyer is dramatic—with a cast-iron French glass door and a luminous chandelier.
While steeped in romance, the home is built for peace of mind. Recent updates include a six-zone irrigation system with a new well, new pump, and Wi-Fi controls; a refreshed septic system; total-house termite protection; and upgraded pool and spa mechanics and heaters. A new water filtration system provides the best quality water for the members and guests of this estate.