Gazing at the pure white exterior of this
magnificent masterpiece of a home, you
are transfixed by the notion that you
are standing before a Northern Italian
palazzo. The landscape you envision as
the setting for such a beauty is echoed
throughout the home itself, in hand-
painted murals that pay homage to the
residence's clear inspiration.
In place of the Adriatic is a view of the
Gulf of Mexico, the sparkling blue jewel
of Florida's west coast and the specific
detail that brings us to reality. We are,
in fact, on lovely Longboat Key, and the
residence before us, Serenissima (most
serene), is the spectacular labor of love of
the original owners, as well as a team of
talented builders, architects, designers,
craftspeople and artists.
Step through the iron-gated, glass entry
doors and prepare to be astonished. The
atrium of the grand hall features intricate
marble f looring, stunning colonnades
spanning three levels, and a majestic
glass dome that peers up to the heavens.
Domed ceilings, trompe l'oeil artistry,
touches of gold leaf, Palladian windows,
etched stained glass and a sprawling
infinity-edge pool overlooking the beach
all pay tribute to the Mediterranean spirit
that reigns throughout.
The 19,000 square feet of luxurious
living space somehow perfectly blends
a welcoming warmth with such opulent
detailing. Exquisite elements such as a
glass-encased bird cage elevator, palatial
terraces on each level and a home theater
complete with stage are balanced by
comfortable gathering spaces tucked into
the grand salon, the airy sunroom, the
paneled library and an intimate parlor.
All told, this dream retreat is the perfect
embodiment of Italian resplendence
gracing the beachfront of our own
Floridian paradise.
erenissima
S
LONGBOAT CLUB ROAD
|
LONGBOAT KEY
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