V5 I1 Florida Homes Magazine

Florida’s Premier Home & Lifestyle Magazine

Luxury Real estate

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

TM

ENTERTAINMENT

Imagine a place that offers panoramic waterviews, set amidst breathtaking natural preserves, and you have just envisioned the extraordinary beauty of Waterlefe Golf & River Club. Developed along the Manatee River, Waterlefe offers upscale amenities with picturesque views and a championship golf course.

The residential community at Waterlefe is made up

Bradenton, Florida

of 621 residences comprised of condominiums, townhouses, and estate homes. Residents enjoy a wide variety of amenities including the River Club clubhouse, the hub of the community, featuring a casual restaurant, expansive pool, tiki bar, children’s playground, fitness center and 59-slip marina offering boaters access to the Gulf of Mexico.

| 941.744.9771 | WaterlefeGolf.comďżź

Longboat KEy towErS Gorgeous views of the Gulf from this corner location, direct beach front, beautifully renovated modern masterpiece.

$950,000 MLS #A3964597 LandS End Lush tropical, “Old Florida� seaside style w/soaring ceilings, pool, tennis and deep water dockage. $687,500 MLS #A3968677

Sanctuary Southwest, beach front corner, 3,115 sq. ft. residence with stairs to the beach that feels like a private house on the Gulf. $1,950,000 MLS #A3971860

440 gulf of Mexico drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 Ph 941.387.7300 FX 941.296.7722 hannerleMoore@michaelsaunders.com www.longboatlife.com Go to www.longboatlife.com to see a video tour on every property Longboat KEy cLub Gorgeous, 3600+ sq. ft. home w/beautiful lagoon, garden and golf course views. Includes pool & Spa. $1,395,000 MLS #A3962300

SunSEt bEach Beautiful Gulf views from this turnkey furnished, beautifully remodeled, corner location condominium. $499,000 MLS #A3957661

watEr cLub Views of Gulf & beach from this 3,045 sq. ft., penthouse. Walls of glass & master retreat w/private balcony. $1,995,000 MLS #A3963869

Longboat KEy towErS Beach front, beautifully remodeled condominium with panoramic views of the Gulf, bay, Lido & downtown Sarasota. $1,050,000 MLS #A3970099

goinlogbal g esMag.com

CONTENTS Florida Homes & Lifestyles Magazine Volume 5 Issue 1 | Winter 2013

H Florida

om

features 8

Publisher’s Note

10

Cover Feature

34

16

Golf on the Southwest Coast

by Marcy Chapman

20

Florida Design

22

Feature Property

46

Casey Key Estate, Villa de Napoli

34

46

by Sania Allen

Waterlefe Golf & River Club

by Howie & Robyn Drourr and Mary Fiorini

Tiburón

by Jeanne Roedding

66

A Room with a View

departments

10 22

62

38

Point of View

By Gail Shane

56

Residential Market Report

by Clinton Chapman

57

Luxury Property Specialist Directory

58

Property Listings

62

Architectural History

Edison & Ford Winter Estates by Barry Stein

16

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 5

SUN COAST 24

The perfect blend of casual “Old Florida” and cosmopolitan chic, the Sun Coast offers a unique perspective on coastal living. The Sun Coast is comprised of the city of Tampa, various barrier islands, and 35-miles of white-sand beaches encompassed by the Gulf of Mexico and the bay. Downtown Tampa is a culturally vibrant metropolitan city center with the award-winning beaches of St. Petersburg and Clearwater just across the bridge. From action packed sporting events, to a relaxing stroll on the beach, there’s a perfect experience awaiting you on Florida’s Sun Coast.

tampa

clearwater

st. petersburg apollo beach bradenton

lakewood ranch sarasota

CULTURAL COAST 30

The Cultural Coast is home to an abundance of outdoor recreation, cultural amenities, award-winning beaches, and outstanding cuisine. The region includes Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice, accompanied by barrier islands, and surrounding communities. The barrier keys offer 35-miles of stunning beaches, including Siesta Key, rated America’s number one beach in 2011.

Sarasota is also home to a world-class ballet company, as well as numerous playhouses and symphonies. A “silk and sandals” type of lifestyle, the Cultural Coast offers a unique and decidedly artistic take on coastal living.

venice

punta gorda cape coral

PARADISE COAST 42

Tropical luxury is what comes to mind when thinking of the Paradise Coast. Located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Everglades, Naples, Marco Island and surrounding communities boast miles of unspoiled beaches, upscale neighborhoods, over 130 highly acclaimed golf courses, culinary delights, and numerous cultural events. Neighboring communities include Fort Myers, known as “The City of Palms” and Fort Myers’ beaches, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Island. Whether you prefer golfing and fine dining or nature hikes and swamp buggy excursions...this quintessential Florida community welcomes you.

captiva island

ft. myers

bonita springs

naples marco island

6 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

WELCOME from

the Publisher

FLORIDAHOMESO

nline

I

feel as if the moment the pineapple dropped on New Year’s Eve in Sarasota, someone shouted, GO! And I have not stopped since. This year we have come barreling out of the gates here at Florida Homes Magazine. The whirl of activity has been a bit staggering at times and yet, we have produced some our best work ever.

For the Golf lovers, we have compiled a bucket list of golf courses on the Southwest Florida coast, defining the important elements of each course To enhance your travels down the coast this winter, we have selected the very best cultural offerings for you to enjoy in our Cultural Calendars for each region. One of the wonderful parts of living here on the Southwest Gulf coast is the accessibility to all the different areas. Within an hour or two, you can enjoy a thrill-ride at Busch Gardens, take in an Opera in Sarasota or search for the perfect shell on Sanibel Island. We truly do have something for everyone.

For those looking to find a new piece of paradise this winter, we have some stunning homes to share with you. The Villa d’ Ravioli on Casey Key is an oceanfront estate truly fit for a king, and the Osprey Point Drive home is a study in elegance from the inside out. We also have two lovely communities to show you, Tiburón and Waterlefe Golf & River Club, both picturesque golf communities with outstanding amenities.

The year 2013 is proving to be a positive one for the coastal real estate market. The numbers are showing significant increases, as you will read in our market report, appropriately titled, “Local Real Estate is Back.”

Florida Homes Magazine, with this 2013 Winter Issue, begins celebrating its Fifth Anniversary Year with significant new and exciting plans already in the works. Our Custom Media Division recently published a new magazine, SaundersBEST, for the premier real estate brokerage company, Michael Saunders & Company. We are so honored to be selected for this very special project by a company whose founder, Michael Saunders, I greatly respect. And coming this Fall, we will expand our Gulf Coast edition to include Northwest Florida, featuring the gorgeous Emerald Coast.

Jules Gibson Publisher & Editor

8 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Follow the latest news in Florida and find all of the articles and events featured in our print magazines on our website FloridaHomesMag.com Translation available in 52 languages!

Also enjoy reading our digital magazines FREE from our website.

FloridaHomesMag.com

Pin

with us!

Pinterest.com/FloridaHomesMag

Volume 5 Issue 1 | Winter 2013 Gulf Coast Edition

PUBLISHER & EDITOR jules gibson jules@floridahomesmag.com EDITORIAL associate editor, meredith mueller, meredith@floridahomesmag.com assistant editor, marcy chapman, marcy@marcychapman.com contributing writer, barry stein, barrystein@me.com contributing writer, gail shane, gshane@nealcommunities.com ADVERTISING SALES sales@floridahomesmag.com ART + DESIGN creative director, jules gibson, jules@floridahomesmag.com photography, detlov von kessel, detlev@dvonkessel.com

www.floridahomesmag.com www.facebook.com/floridahomesmag www.twitter.com/floridahomesmag www.pinterest.com/floridahomesmag advertising/subscriptions 941.227.7331

Florida Homes Magazine LLC Š 2012 is published 5 times a year and distributed internationally through home delivery. Reproduction in whole or in part without the express written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Florida Homes Magazine cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of content or opinions expressed by its authors or advertisers. Subscriptions may be obtained for $5.95 U.S. by our website www.floridahomesmag.com. Principle offices located at: 2345 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 3, Sarasota Florida, 34239

FEATURE Property

Masterpiece

Casey Key

Beautiful Homes & Coastal Lifestyles

Luxury Real estate

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

ENTERTAINMENT

Featured on Cover

10 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Villa de Napoli Represented by Deborah Beacham

A

t first glimpse, you’ll discern Villa de Napoli, a Gulf-front estate located on the exclusive island of Casey Key, is a premier manor. This magnificent family home is designed by architect George Merlin to take full advantage of the exquisite views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Build sandcastles on your private beach and lounge around a country club pool…..find your pleasure in all the features offered here for completing your coastal lifestyle dream.

From the moment your guests enter the palatial foyer and grand salon, even the most discriminating could not help but be impressed.

The interior common spaces are

masterfully designed, showcasing details of craftsmanship, such as the elegant coffered ceiling, fireplace, Yoder custom cabinetry and “blueeyes” granite of the kitchen. The thoughtfulness of the spatial design is also evidenced by the wrap-around butler’s pantry, which allows for ease of serving guests in the formal dining room. The residence contains a laundry room on each living level, is equipped with a generator, and a four-car garage.

This home offers five bedroom suites, all featuring marble clad baths. Three of the suites take full advantage of the breathtaking ocean views via the ambience of private balconies.

A fourth balcony is situated off the family room; the fifth Continued

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 11

Continued from page 11 balcony is situated off the dining room and becomes an extension with its own seating area. The master bedroom suite offers stunning Gulf front views from the wide terrace and a luxurious marble master bathroom with columns framing the spa tub. Another bedroom is organized as an au pair suite with separate living area and separate entrance. The list of highlights of the Villa de Napoli must include the elevator that services the home from the ground floor to the attic. A private boardwalk and dock with lift are top-drawer venues providing delightful options for exploring the tropical sanctuary of Casey Key. Properties of this stature are rarely available on the eight-mile-long island of Casey Key, principally known for its unmarred beauty and ideal positioning.

The convenience of the historic walking town of Venice, with its own airport, located just minutes from Casey Key to the south, and the cultural mecca of downtown Sarasota only 15 miles to the north, makes for carefree living on a very special island.

Nothing is missing in this extraordinary residence. The home of your dreams, that you thought you would have to build, already exists and is waiting for you to move in.

Offered at $8,900,000 5 beds , 6 baths / 1 half baths | 12,908 Square Feet

Represented by

Deborah Beacham, P.A., Realtor速, CRS, GRI, TRC Luxury Waterfront Specialist Michael Saunders & Company Direct 941.376.2688 DeborahBeacham@MichaelSaunders.com www. LuxuryPropertyinSarasota.com

12 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

www.LuxuryPropertyInSarasota.com 2016 Casey Key Road – Casa al Mare 230 Feet on the Gulf With Deep Boating Water Casey Key New Listing $9,400,000

2505 Casey Key Road – Villa de Napoli 100 Feet Gulf to Bay with Gulf-side Residence Casey Key New Listing $8,900,000

1416 Casey Key – Villa Toscana 150 Feet Gulf to Bay on Casey Key New Price $5,200,000

3657 San Remo Terrace – La Joie de L’eau 160 Feet Protected Boating Water Mainland Sarasota New Price $3,949,000 (Motivated Seller)

6677 Gulf of Mexico Drive – Safari Beach House 100 Feet Gulf Frontage on Longboat Key Priced at $3,599,000

db

DEBORAH BEACHAM, P.A. SEVEN YEAR WINNER

Best In Customer Service FIVE STAR AWARD

REALTOR , CRS, GRI, TRC 941.376.2688 R

G

OLF

By Marcy Chapman

T

The state of Florida is lauded as the “Golf Capital of the World” and the Southwest quadrant of the state, from St. Petersburg to Marco Island sports more golf holes per capita than anywhere else in the United States. Here you will find a myriad of scenic and challenging opportunities to test your game. Varying levels of players will find venues that cater to their requirements, including public, semi-private and private courses with a variety of layouts and costs.

The arrival of winter always brings many additional visitors and residents to Southwest Florida. The lure of this region lies in its pleasurable sub-tropical climate where white sandy beaches, large parks, and entertainment and sports venues all create a perfect spot for vacations as well as permanent residency. And the option of year-round-golfing in the heart of Florida’s natural beauty is the icing on an already delicious cake!

14 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

When you come, bring your golfing “wish list” ----scenic landscapes, leisurely courses, challenging courses, championship quality private courses, par 3’s for the weekend duffer, even opportunities for incomparable instruction---and be ready to “swing” into action. Let’s explore some of the options available both on private and public courses.

The Naples Area Our “Fun-in-the-Sun” tour starts at Calusa Pines, located in the Ritz-Carlton area of Naples, a region placing seventh in Golf Digest’s January issue in the “Best Weather” category and fourth in GolfLink’s ranking of Golf Course Locations.

Calusa Pines is recognized for more than great weather, however, as it is on Golf Digest’s list of “Top Ten Best New Private Clubs.”

Designed and developed by architects Hurdzan and Fry, Calusa Pines features dazzling vistas using native plant vegetation and landforms. It is characterized as a “golfer’s course,” meaning you will never get tired of playing it.

There is incredible variety in the compass direction that each hole plays. Given a steady wind, nearly every hole will be affected differently, making the wind more than just an interesting factor.

Image courtesy of The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.

For those who covet an opportunity to play a British Openstyle course …firm and fast but without the thick thatch rough….Tiburón offers the ultimate occasion. Located at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples, the Tiburón Golf Club is a public facility, certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, with 36 championship holes designed by Greg Norman.

Tiburón is the home of the PGA Tour and The Franklin Templeton Shootout, held annually in December. Both courses at Tiburón, the Black and the Gold Course, are visual and environmental masterpieces known for their water and fast greens. Golfers enjoy the uniqueness of nice technical fairways lined with pine straw instead of conventional rough, stacked sod wall bunkers, and red-orange coquina sand waste bunkers.

Eagles prides itself on “One of the finest practice facilities in the nation.”

Ready to try another course? The Dunes Golf Club in Sanibel offers a practice range and was designed by PGA tour winner Mark McCumber. The Dunes is noted for its exceptional conditioning and playability. Since the course is located on an Audubon Society wildlife preserve, you might first want to consider if the sight of an alligator or occasional osprey might throw off your game!

Or, you could swing into Estero, near Fort Myers, and find another Jack Nicklaus designed course, the elegant Old Corkscrew (actually a misnomer, since it is a newer course).

Natural cart-paths take you around Old Corkscrew. The course is always moving, with a lot of hazards in the form of large, sandy waste areas, water carries, deep greenside bunkers and elevated greens that can be surprisingly fast.

While you are in this area, Raptor Bay Golf Club, another course that blends in perfectly with the natural landscape of southwest Florida, can be found in Bonita Springs. A restful round of golf is offered here in a unique environment.

Also in the Naples area is Twin Eagles, where a classic coun- Picturesque views from the course at South Seas Island Resort, try club lifestyle links Captiva Island, Florida. Southseas.com The Sarasota Area with the ultimate Let’s head in a northerly direction toward the vibrant golf experience. Here you will relish two championship cultural area around Sarasota. You’ll find plenty of courses, The Talon and The Eagle. The Talon Course, deopportunity to golf here. Nearby Osprey offers two chamsigned by legendary Jack Nicklaus and his son, is widely pionship courses at The Oaks Club. Both The Eagle course, regarded as the top residential golf course in Southwest designed by Arthur Hills, and The Heron Course, designed Florida. Classic Nicklaus, it offers maximum enjoyment for

by Willard Byrd, will challenge highly skilled players, yet players of all levels. remain playable for all skill levels.

The new Eagle Course there takes full advantage of Twin Registered guests at The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota have Eagle’s Audubon Signature Sanctuary setting. Designed use of the off-site award-winning Ritz-Carlton Golf Club,

by Steve Smyers and Patrick Andrews, it has a classic hisoffering a Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole championship torical design but with modern yardages to accommodate course that gracefully rolls among 12 picturesque lakes today’s high performance equipment. The course was and extensive landscape to form a fair and memorable test designed to provide a different experience each time it is of golf. The Ritz Carlton Club is hosting 2013 U.S. Open played.

Sectional Qualifier. This club’s recent recognition includes In addition to playing in Naples, there are opportunities to Golf Digest’s Best in State and Zagat’s, America’s Top Golf “polish” your game. Twin Eagles is the home of “Doc” Jim Courses, Sixth Edition.

Suttie’s Golf Academy. According to Jack Nicklaus, Twin

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 15

Waterlefe Golf & River Club, WaterlefeGolf.com

Close to Sarasota, the river-laced fairways of Waterlefe, a residential golf course community located in Bradenton, has been rated 4 ½ stars by Golf Digest. A luxury 18-hole course, Waterlefe’s unrivaled natural setting along the Manatee River is composed of a collection of signature golf holes designed by course architect Ted McAnlis. The competitive layout presents a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. Features include five unforgettable holes that touch and border the scenic Manatee River.

Named “Best New Private Course of 2006” by Golf Digest magazine, The Concession Golf Course in Bradenton was designed by Jack Nicklaus in association with Tony Jacklin.

The core design of this walkable, relaxed, and friendly 18hole par 72 course is an atmosphere that offers a natural and uninterrupted golf experience.

The Tampa Bay Area The Tampa Bay area will find you playing more stellar courses such as The Copperhead Course at Innisbrook, a Salamander Golf & Spa Resort. Golfweek has called this course, with rolling hills and challenging holes, number one in Florida. But novices need not be put off. Each year, 1,000 students flock here for one of the largest resortowned-and-operated golf schools in North America.

16 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Nearby you’ll find Mangrove Bay Golf Course, in St. Petersburg. It is one of the nation’s top 50 municipal courses. Newly renovated, the course hugs the inlets of Old Tampa Bay and offers 18-hole, par-72 play.

When you “swing” into the Sunshine State for a Winter Golf Adventure, whether you want to play, study with a pro, or be part of the gallery, the options are bountiful.

Making the “rounds” in Florida, where many of the golf courses are “private members only,” can be accomplished in diverse ways. Some are affiliated with hotels, which have arrangements for guests to play and there are systems of reciprocity in place with other clubs. Many courses are open for public play during the “off-season,” May to October, a great time as the crowds are gone.

If you would like to compete, opportunities await you in venues such as the Gulfcoast Amateur Association of Florida, the Gulf Coast Gold Senior Tour and the Southwest Amateur Series. And, of course, there is always the option of retiring to the 19th hole.

Any way you slice it, golfing in Southwest Florida tallies up to a Grand Slam!

Copperhead Course at Innisbrook, Tampa

Mangrove Bay, St Petersberg Waterlefe, Bradenton

Ritz Sarasota Golf Course, Sarasota Dunes Golf Club, Sanibel Island

Tibur贸n, Naples

Twin Eagles, Naples

Old Corkscrew, Estero

Calusa Pines, Naples

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 17

18 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 19

DESIGN

Inpiration

Some of our editors favorite new finds, the elegant, the practical and the creative.

Serve your latest batch of Sangria in style.

Fleur de Lis Beverage Dispenser.

FloridaHomesMag.com/Shop

A gorgeous way to hide your television. Yorkshire Manor Entertainment Center by Marge Carson.

MargeCarson.com Intricate details create an inspired alternative to the traditional sofa design.

Bay Club Collection sofa by Lexington. www.Lexington.com

A pretty catch-all, this basketweave round basket makes the perfect place to store beach/pool toys and more. PotteryBarn.com

20 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Innovate modern design meets classical craftsmanship in this European Walnut Burl Inlaid Desk Lamp.

Maitland-Smith.com

FEATURE Property

P

Osprey Point Drive

Picture yourself in a lifestyle of sheer elegance, enjoying amazing sunsets overlooking Little Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The “set” for this way of life is a premier lot in the exclusive country club, The Oaks Club. Here, you’ll be captivated by lush tropical landscaping and the secure gated privacy that this location affords.

Behind the gates, a circular driveway guides you to the entrance of this estate. A majestic double stairway, showcased through the custom mahogany doors, leads into an extraordinary three-story salon with ceilings soaring over 22 feet. Once inside, family and friends may gravitate to the gourmet kitchen, large breakfast room and family room with custom hand-crafted bar. The spatial design

22 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Represented by Sania Allen

of the home allows for guests to enjoy the formal living room and flows outside towards a spacious infinity pool area, surrounded by a stone patio. A fully-equipped kitchen, under a covered loggia on the sundeck, enhances the entertainment possibilities.

The private areas of the home were also given special attention. The large master salon has his and hers dressing areas as well as a laundry room and hobby room with abundant storage space. The lower level of the home holds a four-plus car garage, large fitness studio, room for a home theater, and an open formal lobby with double glass doors leading to guest quarters. All wishes have been granted in this enchanting home. There’s even an elevator to access the entire domain!

Osprey | The Oaks Club Offered at $4,100,000 7 beds , 6 baths / 3 half baths | 8843 Square Feet

Represented by

Sania Allen, Realtor

Michael Saunders & Company Mobile: 941.266.7829 Email: SaniaAllen@michaelsaunders.com Web: SaniaAllen.MichaelSaunders.com

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 23

SUN COAST TAMPA, DAVIS ISLANDS, ST. PETERSBURG, CLEARWATER, LARGO, PALM HARBOR, TARPON SPRINGS, APOLLO BEACH

24 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Sun Coast

NEWS Dali Museum Kinetic Ring, recently installed on Kennedy Boulevard in St. Pete’s Warehouse Arts District.

A

A group of community leaders have united to help give Central Avenue, in St. Petersberg, a unified feel, while emphasizing the unique traits of its adjoining neighborhoods. The city’s revitalization plan emerged from the success of individual districts on Central Avenue that have developed distinct identities, such as the Central Arts District in the 600 block and the Edge District, which runs from Ninth Street to 16th Street, which was recently was upgraded with a traffic circle lined with palms and other streetscaping. The project’s $38 million budget will showcase Central Avenue’s diverse retail and cultural offerings. Tourism officials’ see the area as an important piece of their larger vision to demonstrate that the area is more than a retirement destination with sunny beaches.

Creating a unique relationship, Tampa Bay Lightning has announced that Manatee County’s Lakewood Ranch Communities has become the exclusive residential real estate development partner of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Tampa Bay Times Forum. The multi-year agreement will enable the Lightning to grow its regional footprint into one of America’s fastest growing communities, while Lakewood Ranch acquires the opportunity to utilize the team’s reach into key northern markets, allowing expansion of its residential and commercial real estate businesses. Tod Leiweke, chief executive officer of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Times Forum said, “About 1.3 million people will come through our facility this year. All of these people

coming through our facility are potential home-buyers here, potential supporters of business and enterprise in this part of the world.”

New stores are brightening Tampa’s retail real estate, according to a new study released by CBRE Global Research and Consulting’s team in Tampa. The Tampa Bay retail vacancy rate was 7.8% in 2012, which favorably compares with the statewide rate of 8.7%. Only Miami had a lower vacancy rate than Tampa Bay. Retailers absorbing space in Tampa Bay included Whole Foods Market, which opened a new store in north Tampa, and Evos restaurants, recently signing a 2,100-square-foot lease at Carrollwood Center. The Tampa Bay

region is also benefiting from new fitness centers that have sprung up across Tampa Bay, according to CBRE. HomeBankcorp, Inc. has announced an agreement to buy the St. Petersburg lender, Mortgage Investors Corp. which specializes in VA refinance mortgage loans. Mortgage Lenders will operate as a standalone subsidiary.

The acquisition provides a lot of synergies with HomeBankcorp said Jerry Campbell, CEO. The two companies have worked closely for the last five years and have built a strong working relationship. The Mortgage Investors acquisition is one of two major deals pending for HomeBankcorp, which also plans to buy eight Pinellas County branch offices from First Bank.

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 25

Sun Coast SHOPPING

An ecclectic collection of shops line the brick streets of Ybor City.

B

Beneath the towering oak trees of one of Tampa’s oldest and most glamorous neighborhoods is Hyde Park Village, an eclectic collection of specialty shops, from designer boutiques to unique local stores full of treasures. South of downtown, this open-air environment offers outdoor pathways and seating, and is a fantastic place to peoplewatch or shop away the afternoon.

Some of its prominent tenants are Restoration Hardware, Anthropologie, Williams-Sonoma, Brooks Brothers, Tommy Bahama, and Pottery Barn. Most of the walkways are covered, so you still don’t have worry about the unpredicable Tampa weather.

Strolling the brick-lined streets of the former “Cigar Capital of the World” Ybor City, you will find vintage clothing stores, art galleries, coffee houses, cafes, bistros and nightclubs.

In addition to antique furniture, gargoyle statues and handcrafted Spanish tiles, hand-rolled cigars can still be purchased in the old brick buildings of this National Historic Landmark District. The Latin Quarter’s latest development, Centro Ybor, offers shopping, dining and entertainment with stores like Urban Outfitters and restaurants such as Samurai Blue.

Those in search of upscale retail establishments such as Saks Fifth Avenue will enjoy WestShore Plaza and the International Plaza, worldclass retail shopping destinations.

In addition to Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, approximately half of International Plaza’s 200 specialty shops are new to the area, including Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, J. Crew and Cole Hahn.

The upscale retail mecca in Tampa, the International Plaza.

26 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Mise en Place

Sun Coast

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Bern’s Steak House

1208 S. Howard Ave, Tampa (813)251.2421 www.bernssteakhouse.com Steakhouse

Cafe Ponte

13505 Icot Blvd, Clearwater (727)538.5768 www.cafeponte.com New Continental

Carmel Cafe

14306 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa (813)265.1415 www.carmelcafe.com Mediterranean

Mise En Place

442 W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa (813)254.5373 www.miseonline.com New American

Parkshore Grill

300 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg (727)896.3463 www.parkshoregrill.com Contemporary American

Pane Rustica

3225 S. MacDill Ave, Tampa www.panerusticabakery.com Contemporary

Pearl in the Grove

31936 St Joe Rd, Dade City www.pearlinthegrove.com New Southern

Mise en Place

442 W Grand Central Ave Tampa miseonline.com Modern American cuisine

HOT

SPOTS Hyde Park Cafe

1806 W Platt St, Tampa www.thehydeparkcafe.com The Place to Be and Be Seen

Dunedin Brewery

937 Douglas Ave, Dunedin www.dunedinbrewery.com Ultimate Brew Pub

The Dallas Bull

3322 U.S. 301 N, Tampa www.dallasbull.com Mega Country Bar

Jackson’s Bistro

601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa www.jacksonsbistro.com Big Party Big Fun

The Undertow

3850 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach www.undertowbeachbar.com Ultimate Beach Bar

A Taste For Wine

241 Central Ave, St Petersburg www.tasteforwine.net Romantic Wine Bar

Columbia

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 27

Sun Coast

ART & CULTURAL CALENDAR

Feb to Mar 3

The Piano Lesson Raymond James Theater St. Petersburg americanstage.org

Feb 2

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater rutheckerdhall.com

Feb 3 and ongoing

Ghost Tour of St. Petersburg Downtown St. Pete ghosttour.com

Feb 7 - 10

Verdi’s A Masked Ball Stratz Center, Tampa strazcenter.org

Feb 7- 18

Florida Strawberry Festival Tampa flstrawberrygestival.com

Feb 9

Rock The Arts Largo clearwaterartsalliance.org

HOT

Feb 10 - Mar 3

April 12 - 14

Tampa Bay Blues Festival St. Petersburg tampabaybluesfest.com

Bands Brew & BBQ Sundays Busch Gardens Tampa Bay seaworldparks.com

Feb 11

Vienna Boys Choir Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater rutheckerdhall.com

Feb 14

Sheryl Crow Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater rutheckerdhall.com

Feb 14

Total Eclipse of the Heart MOSI Planetarium Tampa mosi.org

Feb 14 - 17

Mar 19 - 24

Feb 27

Pink Tampa Bay Times Forum ticketmaster.com

Mar 2 - 3

Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Downtown Tampa gasparillaarts.com

Mar 12-17

Anything Goes Straz Center, Tampa strazcenter.org

Mar 13 - Apr 7

Popera!

Straz Center, Tampa strazcenter.org

Puccini’s La Boheme Straz Center, Tampa strazcenter.org

Feb 17

Mar 16

The Royal Inheritance Dali Museum, St. Petersburg thedali.org

Kenny Chesney Raymond James Stadium, Tampa ticketmaster.com

Feb 19 - 24

Mar 16

“Flashdance” the Musical Straz Center, Tampa strazcenter.org

TICKET

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Ybor City visittampabay.com

Gasparilla International Film Festival Downtown Tampa, Hyde Park, Ybor City visittampa.com

March 22- 24 Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Downtown gpstpete.com

March 24

Alicia Keys Tampa Bay Times Forum ticketmaster.com

April 9 - 14

Priscilla Queen of the Desert Straz Center, Tampa priscillaontour.com

April 20 - 21

Annual Mainsail Arts Festival St. Petersburg mainsailartsfestival.org

Mar 2-3

Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Tampa’s oldest and most beloved arts festival.

28 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Experience Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. Steps away from the powder white sands of Clearwater Beach, an idyllic resort is bringing world-class style and amenities to the west coast of Florida. All guestrooms are suites with fully equipped kitchens featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, private balconies and Gulf of Mexico views. The hotel also offers Sandava Spa, SHOR American Seafood Grill, Camp Hyatt, Hyatt StayFit™ Gym, 20 air-conditioned pool cabanas and indoor & outdoor meeting space perfect for any business gathering or special event.

For reservations, call 727 373 1234 or visit clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com.

Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

HYATT REGENCY CLEARWATER BEACH RESORT & SPA

301 South Gulfview Blvd.

Clearwater, Florida 33767

HYATT name, design and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2012 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

CULTURAL COAST SARASOTA, LAKEWOOD RANCH, BRADENTON, OSPREY, VENICE, NORTH PORT, PUNTA GORDA, PORT CHARLOTTE

30 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Cultural Coast

NEWS

Paolo Veronese: A Master and His Workshop in Renaissance Venice on exhibit until April 14th. The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

T

The first new private golf course to be built in over five years is being developed in Lakewood Ranch. Taylor Morrison Homes has purchased approximately 400 acres for $23.3 million. They plan to build 800 residences, united with a new C.W. Golf Architecture designed championship golf course, as well as a 12,000-square-foot clubhouse, tennis courts, a restaurant and a 6,000-square-foot wellness center at Esplanade.

© VistiSarsota.com Sarsota VCB

Florida reasserts its presence in the top ten ranking of the national education report. The state has consistently held a place in the top echelon of public education since 2009, rising as high as number five in the nation. The Sunshine State was ranked sixth in the 2013 annual “Quality Counts” report.

Jonathan Hage, the CEO of Charter Schools USA, has been named Floridian of the Year 2012, highlighting the dramatic increase in the importance of charter schools in Florida and the US. Hage’s company, Charter Schools USA, is one of the fastest-growing for-profit charter school management companies in the nation. The number of children attending charter schools in Florida has increased six-fold in the past decade, where in 2012 over 200,000 students attended a charter school.

Holmes Beach has imposed a building moratorium, allowing up to six

months for the city commission to enact changes in the Residential-2 zone.

Proposed changes include:

•

•

An ordinance to restrict the square footage of homes in proportion to lot sizes and a onepool-per lot rule, with possible exceptions.

Dock setback rules in keeping with Florida DEP, potential for “grandfathered” rules in certain areas.

Florida’s economy is steadily improving. Key local economic indicators used to gauge the recovery include: visitor counts are up state-wide; supply of homes for sale near typical levels; consumer bankruptcies are down; an increased presence in manufacturing, especially in the Southwest and Southeastern regions of the state; and overall, companies are expanding and hiring state-wide, as well as relocating to Florida.

Allegiant Air will offer non-stop jet service between Plattsburgh, an upstate New York community, and Punta Gorda starting Feb. 23, 2013.

Las Vegas-based Allegiant is focused on linking travelers in small cities to world-class leisure destinations.

You don’t need to be born wealthy to become a Florida millionaire, state the results from the ninth annual PNC Wealth Management Survey. Only 5% of those surveyed actually came from wealth, whereas a vast majority rated their childhood socio-economic status as “average.” The survey also revealed that two-thirds of the surveyed millionaires did receive some assistance from family, with only one in five rising from poverty on their own. What do three out of four Florida millionaires have in common? They agree that their most important goal in life is to raise successful hard-working children.

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 31

Cul tural Coast SHOPPING

Lush tropical landscape frames the shopping expereince on St. Armands Circle.

T

he Cultural Coast offers a unique shopping experience, creatively driven by independent businesses that simultaneously fulfill a retail niche and the passions of the owners.

Along the charming tree-lined streets of Downtown Sarasota, you’ll find hand-picked one-of-a-kind treasures at places such as Coquillage, a shop known for its European coastal chic furniture and home accessories.

These stores are recognized for dispensing the kind of personal service only shop owners provide.

St. Armands Circle is a retail and dining destination for tourists and residents alike. An assortment of shops cater to a wide variety of clientele. From the beach retail giant Alvin’s to fashion connoisseur, The Met, “The Circle” offers a tremendously diverse shopping experience.

One shouldn’t overlook the fantastic consignment shopping available in the area. If you are looking to recycle couture clothing or pick up a vintage find, some of the highend consignment shops, such as Fifi’s Consignment in the Southside Village, offer a posh selection of designer names in meticulous condition.

Sarasota is also home to a giant outlet mall, Ellenton Premium Outlets.

Famous retailers such as Coach, J.Crew, Michael Kors and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th are only a few of the 130 stores with discounted goods to enhance your wardrobe or spruce up your home.

The Cultural Coast also has several traditional indoor malls, including the giant Westfield Sarasota Square Mall – convenient to Venice and Osprey, and Gulf Gate Mall near the southern bridge to Siesta Key. Even the most discriminating fashionista can find a retail home at Westfield Southgate Mall. Located near Siesta Key and Downtown Sarasota, luxury goods and high fashion can be found in stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Dillards.

To the south, Downtown Venice and Downtown Punta Gorda both offer charming historic shopping districts filled with locally owned boutiques and art galleries. In Punta Gorda, Fisherman’s Village is a bayfront outdoor mall with an eclectic assemblage of shops and restaurants.

The big news in local shopping is the building of the new University Park Mall. This new shopping mecca is designed to be one of the largest shopping malls built in the past several years in the U.S.

For a distinctive European coastal chic style, visit Coquillage on Main Street, Downtown Sarasota.

32 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Cul tural Coast

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Bijou Cafe

1287 1st Street, Sarasota (941)966.8111 bijoucafe.com Continental American

Libby’s Cafe & Bar 1917 S. Osprey, Sarasota (941)487.7300 libbyscafebar.com Contemporary

Maison Blanche

2605 Gulf of Mexico Dr, (941)383.8088 maisonblancherestaurants.com Modern French

Perfect Caper

121 East Marion Ave, Punta Gorda (941)505.9009 theperfectcaper.com New American

Pomona

481 N. Orange Ave, Sarasota pomonabistroandwine.com (941)706.1677 Contemporary

Carmel Café

8433 Cooper Creek Blvd.

Lakewood Ranch (941)893.5955 carmelcafe.com Mediterranean

Michael’s On East 1212 East Ave, Sarasota (941)955.3663 michaelsoneast.com New American

HOT

SPOTS

Darwin’s on 4th 1525 4th St, Sarasota (941)343.2165 darwinson4th.com Peruvian

Euphemia Haye

5540 Gulf of Mexico Dr Longboat Key (941)383.3633 euphemiahaye.com Global/Eclectic

Gulf View Grill

2095 North Beach Rd, Englewood (941)475.3500 thegulfviewgrill.com American

Cà d’Zan Lounge

1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota www.ritzcarlton.com Elegant Lounge, Music & Dancing

Marina Jacks

2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota www.marinajacks.com Spectacular Setting Dining & Bar

Mattison’s

1 North Lemon Avenue, Sarasota www.mattisons.com Outdoor Restaurant & Live Music

Derek’s Darwin’s on 4th

514 Central Ave, Sarasota www.dereks-sarasota.com Casual New American

Shakespeare’s English Pub 3550 South Osprey Ave, Sarasota www.shakespearespubsarasota.com Local English Pub & Craft Beer

Jack’s on Marion

201 West Marion, Punta Gorda (941)637.9300 Outdoor Restaurant & Live Music

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 33

COMMUNITYSpotlight

COMMUNITY

E

xpressly developed for those who have a passion for fine living, golf and the water.

34 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Waterlefe Golf & River Club Contributing Writers Howie & Robyn Drourr and Mary Fiorini

A

long the banks of the tranquil Manatee River, just upstream from Bradenton, Florida, you will find Waterlefe Golf & River Club. Embraced by the breathtaking natural beauty of wetland preserves and nature trails, this residential community was expressly developed for those who have a passion for fine living, golf and the water.

The over 600 residences at Waterlefe include estate homes, townhouses and condominiums, all enhanced by a fifty-nine slip marina on the Manatee River, an award-winning golf course and scenic views. Some homes are waterfront with boat docks in their own backyard.

The luxury Waterlefe Golf & River Club golf course is comprised of a collection of 18 unique holes designed by architect Ted McAnlis. True to its Waterlefe name, water is in play on 18 of the 18 holes -- and many holes have water in play on more than one occasion. Designer McAlis comments, â€œâ€ŚWaterlefe will present a memorable - even unforgettable - golfing experience.â€?

The competitive layout, winding its way through protected conservation areas, presents a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. There are five sets of tees ranging in length from 4,700 to 6,908 yards. Five holes border the scenic Manatee Continued

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 35

Waterlefe Nearby Attractions South Florida Museum

This extraordinary Waterlefe home features four bedrooms, gourmet kitchen and superior appointments throughout. Expansive outdoor entrainment areas lead to a private boat dock with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Offered for sale $649,000.

The largest cultural and natural history museum on the Gulf Coast, it houses dozens of historical artifacts, the Bishop Planetarium and the Parker Manatee Aquarium.

Robinson Nature Preserve

Free nature wildlife area with over 100 species of birds, paved walks and water trails. Great views of the Tampa Bay area from observation tower.

Music on Main

Concerts are free to the public on the first Friday of each month from 6 to 9 p.m. on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. Each concert features a different style of music and benefits a local non-profit organization.

River, where you may spot a family of manatees swimming close to shore and poking their noses up for a breath of air.

Known as a “Must Play” course, Waterlefe is a Golf Digest-rated 4 ½ star course and has been the host site for five US Open Qualifying Tournaments.

PGA Professionals at The Golf Academy at Waterlefe are ready to improve your game, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player. Ensuring a full-service atmosphere, you’ll find included an aqua range, practice putting green, pro shop, grille room, and beverage cart service.

The River Club at Waterlefe is the center of social and dining events. The impressive clubhouse offers an exquisite

dining room overlooking the Manatee River and the spacious terrace, which is the perfect spot to watch the splendor of a Florida sunset. Upscale amenities abound with a 2,400 square foot saline swimming pool, tiki bar on the patio, and a modern fitness center, where programs such as personal training, yoga, Zumba, and water aerobics are offered.

Waterlefe Golf and River Club is located just east of I-75, conveniently close to the renowned culture, art, shopping and cuisine of the Bradenton-Sarasota area. When it comes to location and prestigious recreational living, this tropical residential resort has it all.

Prime Outlet Mall

Shop at 130 stores such as Coach, J.Crew, Kate Spade New York, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Michael Kors, Movado, Nike and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th.

Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex This 115,000 square foot facility offers recreational and entertainment activities for all ages.

Highlights are two ice rinks and an indoor soccer/football field.

WaterlefeGolf.com

Contributing Writers

Howie & Robyn Drourr, and Mary Fiorini, Realtors® Michael Saunders & Company

36 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Direct: 941.812.6476 www.howieshomes.com howiedrourr@michaelsaunders.com

The Waterlefe Lifestyle 11014 Big Pass Place Gorgeous estate home in The Cape of Waterlefe. Home sits on the 14th hole of Waterlefe with golf course, canal & Manatee River views. All the upgrades you would expect are included. Furniture package & boat dock optional. A3970644 $729,000

941.812.6476 Howie & Robyn Drourr started HowiesHomes Team, and together with their partner Mary Fiorini, they have been active and successful Realtors for over 25 combined years— focusing on the Waterlefe Golf & River Club community. All members of this great team call Waterlefe home and thrive on selling homes in the community they love.

955 Fish Hook Cove The outside lanai, pool and spa area has been enhanced and enlarged, incredible outdoor living with unparalleled views. Inside the home has been appointed with the finest finishes. The private boat dock is out your back door with direct Gulf access. A3962216 $649,000

If you are considering selling your Waterlefe home, call the HowiesHomes Team for a complimentary market analysis.

If you are considering buying your Florida residence in Waterlefe, call the HowiesHomes Team for an extraordinary experience in finding that perfect home.

510 Sand Crane Court This home is perfectly positioned for unequaled northwest exposure looking out to a pristine preserve area with a pond from your beautiful pool and lanai. This is tropical living at its best. A3965776 $519,900

10105 Day Lily Court Freshly painted and immaculate, this home is a true vacation retreat. The pavered lanai has a pool and spa overlooking a serene lakeside view.

Enjoy the ultimate in tropical living, where you may consider staying year round. A3968968 $514,900

micha e l sa unde rs. com 941.907.9595 8325 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

SARASOTA POINT OF

View

A native of upstate New York, Sania Allen brings a strong work to her career as a Realtor. She became interested in real estate at an early age, learning from her parents, who emigrated from the Ukraine in the 1950s. Through hard work, they made their American dream a reality, when becoming landlords for the entire block.

Sania uses this same determination when working with her clients, helping them turn their coastal dreams into reality. A graduate member of the Institute for Luxury Homes, Sonia is a Luxury Property Specialist. An associate of Michael Saunders & Company, she can be reached by email at SaniaAllen@ MichaelSaunders.com

Q

What brought you to Sarasota?

Coming from upstate New York, like most of the snowbirds, Southwest Florida started out as a vacation destination. To wake up to the incredible sunshine was a much-needed break from the cold harsh winters. It was like I had landed on another planet. As time went on it became harder to return to New York. Finally in 2000, I decided to turn my dream into a reality and made Sarasota my home.

Q

What is your favorite destination?

I am mesmerized by the beautiful sunsets while walking on the white powdery sands of Siesta Key. So much so, that my husband and I purchased the

38 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

last two beach lots available, to build our dream home. We look forward to sharing the serenity of this magical place with our friends and neighbors.

It’s amazing to think that in 1940, Siesta Key was a sleepy, virtually uninhabited barrier island. It was hardly a tourist destination, at that time; it was covered in dense vegetation and mosquito filled swamps riddled with poisonous snakes. With a population of only 300, it was primarily made up of fishing camps.

In 1960, Capt. Roberts and his wife had a grand vision for Siesta Key. They platted the island and thus their road to prosperity began. Today Siesta Key is home or part-time home to approximately 24,000 residents and attracts over 350,000 visitors each year. This small town is now one of the top vacation destinations in the US.

PHOTOGRAPHY Š Detlev Von Kessel www.PIX360.com

ethic and passion for real estate

Siesta Key sunset, voted best beach in the U.S. by Doctor Beach 2012.

Q Q

What do you love most about the Sarasota lifestyle?

The diverse cultural offerings in Sarasota make this a very exciting place to live and visit. The cultural amenities are endless; shopping, restaurants, world-class ballet company, playhouses, symphonies, operas, etc.‌ and the list goes on and on. No wonder this city is called the Cultural Coast.

Contributing Writer Gail Shane is the Realtor Liaison for Neal Communities and John Neal Homes www.NealCommunities.com. Gail hosts a weekly radio show, Gail Shane & Friends every Saturday at 10am on WSRQ 106.9 FM and 1220 AM. Shows are archived at www.gailshane.com.

Cul tural Coast

Feb 9

CULTURAL CALENDAR

Feb 9 - March 23 Sarasota Opera Presents Puccinni’s TURNANDOT Sarasota Opera House www.sarasotaopera.org

Feb 9

Cupid’s Caper Isles Yacht Club, Punta Gorda www.bbbssun.org

Feb 13 - April 20

You Can’t Take it With You Asolo Rep. Theatre, Sarasota www.asolorep.org

Feb 14

Ten Tenors Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota www.vanwezel.org

Feb 14 - Feb 24

Nine to Five The Players Theatre, Sarasota www.theplayers.org

Feb 16-17

Wine & Jazz Festival Laishley Park, Punta Gorda puntagordachamber.com

Feb 19 - Mar 17

Helly Dolly Main Stage Musical Venice Theatre, Venice www.venicestage.com

Feb 21 - Mar 17

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Manatee Players, Bradenton www.manateeplayers.com

Feb 22 - March 2

The Drunkard - A Musical Glenridge Performing Arts www.theglenridge.com

Feb 23 - May 19

Herb Ritts: L. A. Style Famed Photographer Exhibit Ringling Museum of Art www.ringling.org

Feb 24

Russian Ballet Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota www.vanwezel.org

March 1

A Nite With The Rat Pack Boca Grande Comm. Center Boca Grande www.royalpalmplayers.com

March 1

Boston Pops Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota www.vanwezel.org

March 7 - March 24 Till Beth Do Us Parts Anna Maria Island Players, www.theislandplayers.org

HOT

TICKET

Philiadephia Orchestra Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota

March 8 - 10

March 13 - March 15

Cirque des Voix Sailor Circus, Sarasota www.circussarasota.org

Clybourne Park Asolo Rep. Theatre, Sarasota www.asolorep.org

Englewood Music Festival Paul Morris Park, Englewoodmusicfestival.com

Born Yesterday Lemon Bay Playhouse, Englewood www.lemonbayplayhouse.com

March 8

March 9 - March 10 Anna Maria Springfest Anna Maria Island www.islandartleague.org

March 11

All That Jazz Crownshield Community House, Boca Grande 941.964.2326

March 12

Of Mice and Men Sarasota Opera House www.sarasotaopera.org

March 12

March 13 - April 7

March 23 - 25

Boca Grande Art & Wine Festival, Boca Grande Resort www.boulderbrook.net

March 23 - March 24

Spring Fine Arts Festival Downtown Englewood www.englewoodrotary.org

March 29 - May 12

The Game’s Afoot Asolo Rep. Theatre, Sarasota www.asolorep.org

April 5 - 14

Lord of the Dance Van Wezel Arts Hall Sarasota www.vanwezel.org

Sarasota Film Festival Main Street, Sarasota www.sarasotafilmfestival.com

Pirates of Penzance Van Wezel, Sarasota www.vanwezel.org

La Musica Festival International Chamber Music Festival, Sarasota Opera House www.lamusicafestival.org

March 13

April 8 - April 19

March 5 - March 10 Les Miserables

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota www.vanwezel.org Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25th anniversary production of Boublil & Schönberg’s legendary musical, LES MISERABLES, with glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. This new production has been acclaimed by critics, fans and new audiences and is breaking box office records wherever it goes. The London Times hails the new show, “a five star hit, astonishingly powerful.”

40 | FLORIDA HOMES & LIFESTYLES

On Your Side

Protecting Your Interests •

Real Estate

•

Wills & Trusts

• • •

Foreclosure Alternatives Probate

US & Foreign Tax Matters

GKW&H GIBSON, KOHL, WOLFF & HRIC, P.I.

Serving Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

www.SarasotaClosings.com 941-966-3575 Real Estate Closings 941-954-1359 Tax & Estate

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NAPLES, FT MYERS, MARCO ISLAND, BONITA SPRINGS, SANIBEL ISLAND, CAPE CORAL, ESTERO

42 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

© Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau

PARADISE COAST

Paradise Coast

NEWS

Lighthouse on Sanibel Island

C

Collier County saw more than 1.57 million visitors last year, up 5.6 percent from 2011. There were 1,573,000 visitors staying in hotels and other vacation rentals last year, according to county consultant Research Data Services Inc., based in Tampa. Those visitors had an economic impact of more than $1.4 billion, up more than 11 percent from 2011. Part of the increase last year came from an uptick in visitation from Europe, which rose more than 18 percent over 2011. Canadian visitation was up more than 28 percent and, from the Midwest, it rose 8.8 percent over the year.

The industrial real estate market may port the growth of the university. be hot in Lee County, but it’s blazing University Village will provide offin Collier, according to the assessment campus housing, retail shops, coffee of Stan Stouder of CRE Consultants. shops and restaurants. The property “The surge of interest in Collier is is located south of the university and being driven so far by investors atfully supports the University Village Sanibel Island Lighthouse tracted by the scarcity of feasible sites concept. With re-zoning, Miromar for future industrial construction,” will move some of its already apStouder said. “In addition, sellers proved commercial use property to ready to sell cheap have been plentithe 100-acres next to FGCU. ful in Collier and buyers recognize this as a window that is closing if, it’s not Non-stop service between Fort already closed, as the economy starts Myers and Trenton, N.J., is now to recover.” available at Southwest Florida International Airport. Denver-based, Miromar Development, headquarFrontier Airlines is now offering direct tered in Estero, has announced plans flights twice weekly on Thursdays and for a residential and commercial deSundays. velopment adjacent to Florida Gulf Coast University, designed to sup-

State officials voted last week to spend nearly $2 million on a project that’s being billed as a way to clean up the Caloosahatchee River and filter pollution flowing from Lake Okeechobee.

The project would affect water quality in all of coastal Lee County.

The River District Trolley is now offering free transportation in and around historic Fort Myers. Two two new trolley routes runnng Mondays through Saturdays until April 17th, will help you experience everything the vibrant and growing downtown area has to offer. There’s no better way to explore the exciting new restaurants, shops and galleries than aboard a replica trolley. Hop on and off as often as you like, and never pay a fare.

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 43

© Collier & Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau

Paradise Coast SHOPPING

Find you way around Fifth Avenue South with the help of our Concierge.

F

Everglades Airboat

Ride

From upscale shops and quaint tree-lined streets to waterfront ambiance and top designer outlets, shopping on the Paradise Coast has it all.

Fifth Avenue South offers a beautiful historic setting in the heart of Naples. Fine shops, galleries, restaurants and sidewalk cafes, along the

beautifully landscaped promenades, are a favorite destination for visitors and locals to enjoy the small-town friendliness. Fifth Avenue South is an irresistible mix of glamour and laid-back ease. Historic and modern architecture blend together in eclectic sophistication; tropical blooms and lush greenery grace its pedestrian-friendly promenades.

In the heart of Old Naples, Third Street South, offers attractive courtyards and chic boutiques, spas, restaurants, galleries and markets to tantalize the senses.

Voted one of the best outlets in South Florida, Miromar Outlets

features over 140 top designer brands, great dining and great savings. Well known designer brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Lenox, Coach and many others offer 70% off retail on the hottest trends.

Get a glimpse of Naples’ nautical past at Tin City Waterfront Marketplace featuring 40 plus boutiques and restaurants. Enjoy casual boardwalk shopping, dining and more at the Dockside Boardwalk, or discover some of the best shopping in Naples at the The Villages on Venetian Bay, a superior shopping experience in a beautiful waterfront setting.

A unique assemblage of shops and restaurants with a creative, tropical flair nestled on the Naples Bay. DOCKSIDE BOARDWALK

44 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

© Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau & Collier VCB

Useppa Island Dock

Paradise Coast

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Cafe & Bar Lurcat

494 Fifth Ave. S, Naples 239.213.3357 www.damico.com Contemporary

Figs Grille

25987 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs 239.390.1700 www.figsgrille.com Mediterranean

Lush

13451 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers 239.791.8554 www.lushfortmyers.com New American

M Waterfront Grille

4300 Gulf Shore Blvd N., Naples 239.263.4421 www.mwaterfrontgrille.com Contemporary

Sea Salt

1186 3rd St. S., Naples 239.434.7258 www.seasaltnaples.com Innovative Seafood

Traders Cafe

1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island 239.472.7242 www.traderssanibel.com Continental/Seafood

Sanibel Cafe

2007 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island 239.472.5323 www.sanibelcafe.com American

Veranda

2122 Second St, Ft Myers 239.332.2065 www.verandarestaurant.com Southern Regional

HOT

SPOTS

Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille Rabbit Rd., Sanibel Island www.docfordssanibel.com Local Seafood Old Naples Pub 255 S. 13th Avenue, Naples www.oldnaplespub.com Live Entertainment Blue Martini 9114 Strada Place, Naples 239.591.2583 bluemartinilounge.com Dancing Hot Spot The Club at The Ritz Carlton 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples 239.598.3300 Live Music, Dancing

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 45

COMMUNITYSpotlight

COMMUNITY

46 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Tiburón Contributing Writer Jeanne Roedding

Naples’ prestigious Tiburón could garner a “Grand Slam” with its four winners – two Greg Norman championship golf courses, WCI’s superb master-planned community, and The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort.

Golf is just the beginning at this resort community, where residents and visitors enjoy fine and casual dining, fitness and spa services and luxurious transportation for trips to the beach.

WCI Communities, a company that sets the bar for building exceptional communities, presents the ultimate in residential lifestyles in Tiburón’s master-planned communities. Among these are Esperanza, the newest neighborhood, set along two holes of the Tiburón golf course, and Marsala, with oversized homesites in a secluded haven, surrounded by nine Normandesigned golf holes. Collectively, all Tiburón neighborhoods afford breathtaking views of natural preserves, lakes and immaculate fairways.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, is a AAA FiveDiamond, Mobil Four-Star Mediterranean-style sanctuary that offers three exceptional dining establishments, 12 unique, spacious meeting rooms, the Tiburón Golf Course and a large pool area with poolside service.

Resident members enjoy the amenities of the Tiburón Mediterranean-style clubhouse. Here, elegant comfort combines with exceptional service in three superior dining rooms, private member locker rooms, lounge areas and a fully-equipped golf shop.

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 47

Tiburon Nearby Attractions Naples Botanical Garden

Cortez Model Home built by WCI Communities

Whatever your botanical interest, you’ll enjoy exploring this diverse nature adventure. Begin your journey in the garden’s center, viewing the entire garden from the platforms and rope bridges of the tree house. You’ll observe exotic flowers and plants from faraway places such as Brazil, along with historic subtropical gardens featuring local species indigenous to Florida. The Naples Zoo is also located here in the Caribbean Gardens.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park One of the most popular seaside destinations in Naples, the mile-long stretch of white sugar sand at Delnor-Wiggins has been rated one of the best beaches in the nation. The 166-acre park is a tropical paradise for beach lovers, boaters and divers. The beach is a popular spot to sunbathe, swim, beachcomb, snorkel and picnic. Boaters can launch their vessels into Water Turkey Bay and travel to the Gulf or up the Cocohatchee River for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

The Naples Depot Set in a restored Seaboard Air Line Railway passenger station, the Naples Depot Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, welcomes visitors back to the railroading boom days of the Roaring Twenties.

48 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Golfers who appreciate the finer aspects of the game will find the ultimate golf experience at the Tiburón Golf Club, where the main attractions are two superb golf courses designed by golf icon, Greg Norman.

Norman’s golf course designs rank him among the world’s best and his Tiburón courses are considered his most challenging. Norman has commented, “We’re happy with what we created and glad that it presents an enjoyable test, regardless of skill level.” The Gold and the Black Courses have been carved from 800 acres of unsurpassed natural subtropical beauty. Every component of the design has been carefully planned to ensure a pleasing golf environment, while retaining the natural allure of the land. As a result, Tiburón is one of the few golf courses, worldwide, that has been designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International.

The Gold Course plays firm and fast, and is the home of the Franklin Templeton Shootout. The Gold is a visual and environmental work of art.

The course is lined with towering pine

trees and rolling fairways winding through lush foliage and sand bunkers. The Black Course at Tiburón has a very individual look with its pine straw-lined fairways, stacked-sod wall bunkers, orange coquina waste areas and undulating greens nestled among pine trees and native foliage.

A “must” for visitors is the luxury of the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, sporting the Tiburón courses right outside their door. This resort features stunning British Colonial décor that reflects golf’s origin. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort is a AAA Five-Diamond, Mobil Four-Star sanctuary offering wellappointed guest rooms as well as exceptional dining establishments, meeting rooms, and a large pool area with poolside service.

Opportunely situated in an ideal location in North Naples, Tiburón is only a short distance from the area’s best beaches, the charming boutiques and galleries of Old Naples’ Fifth Avenue and Third Street South, the Philharmonic Center for the Arts and upscale shopping at Waterside Shops.

Contributing Writer Jeanne Roedding, Realtor® John R. Wood Realtors Email: Jeanne@NinaLink.com Direct: (239) 872-1348

Tiburon

The Ultimate in Naples Florida Lifestyle Recently Sold

tiburÓn PenthOuSe Panoramic golf and preserve views Selling Price $915,000

Currently Available

Serafina at tiburÓn breathtaking two story home 3 bedrooms+Den/4 baths Offered at $1,525,000

bOlerO at tiburÓn Spacious home with golf and lake views 3 bedrooms/2 baths Offered at $610,000

Jeanne Roedding, ReAltoR The link team

linking International Buyers with SW Florida Sellers Since 1989

239.872.1348 Jeanne@NinaLink.com www.JeanneRoedding.com

Naples & Southwest Florida!

BONITA BAY | $624,000

LELY RESORT |$618,000

Former decorator’s model with upgrades galore in Esperia South. Beautiful golf course/Bay view. Two balconies, custom built-ins, marble floors, 2-car enclosed garage and more! Optional golf club membership.

2+Den/2.5 (C8730).

Top notch perfection in model-home condition in Mustang Island! Recent upgrades and golf views! Largest floorplan (The Palomino) with 2,769 square feet under air. Huge heated salt pool and spa.

3+Den/3 (H6855).

Karen Rosenstein, 239-405-0428 www.House-Hunting.com

Robin Hill, 239-776-0733 www.RobinSellsNaples.com

PELICAN MARSH|$560,000

THE PLANTATION| $449,000

Sophisticated and serene Les Chateaux residence of uncommon quality. Beautifully updated with cherry wood floors, plantation shutters, new A/C, more. 2-car garage.

Tennis included/Golf available. 3+Den/2.5 (C8769).

Fun and friends come with this stunning home in Bridgetown! A dream of efficiency, space and comfort. The custom designed pool is waiting for you to take the plunge. 3+Den/2 (H6852).

Rose Mary Everett, 239-272-7790 Jessica Bibbee, 239-272-6810 www.NaplesFinestRealEstate.com

Nina Link, The LINK Team, 239-357-5058 Garren Grup, 239-289-8619 www.NinaLink.com

www.JohnRWood .com

Naples & Southwest Florida!

BONITA BEACH | $1,850,000

PELICAN BAY |$1,350,000

Investment opportunity! This Gulf front residential lot directly on Bonita Beach truly defines the ultimate Southwest Florida lifestyle. Great views from Naples to Sanibel on a clear day. Build your dream home!

Approximate lot size: 50’x200’, .31 acres. (L1346).

The most beautiful view in all of Naples! Rarely available 18th Floor “D” end unit in Claridge. Panoramic views of Pelican Bay Estuary and sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. 3+Den/2.5 (C8754).

Jay and Chris Siemers, 239-250-4009 www.JaySiemers.com

Wendy Nelson, 239-248-2365 www.JohnRWood.com

COLLIER’S RESERVE|$1,295,000

PELICAN BAY | $1,079,000

Private. Peaceful. Picture Perfect. Custom home on cul-de-sac with Southeast lanai.

Open, seamless living with expansive outdoors. A beautifully sunny gem in this Audubon Sanctuary community! 3-car garage. 4+Den/3.5 (H6715).

Sought-after Southwest end unit in St. Pierre with wrap-around Gulf-to-Golf vistas and two sunset terraces. Spacious plan with 2,425 SF featuring two masters. Light and bright interiors. 3/3 (C8709).

The Monika DeBenedictis Team, 239-450-4222 www.YourHomeInNaples.com

The Monika DeBenedictis Team, 239-450-4222 www.YourHomeInNaples.com

www.JohnRWood .com

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 51

Bonita Springs A Southwest Florida We have successfully assisted Canadian clients with their real estate needs since 1994.

References available from Canadian clients upon request.

Marina Isle at Bonita Bay ~ 27680 Marina Isle Court ~ $1,950,000

Creekside at Bonita Bay ~ 3480 Pond Apple Court ~ $1,795,000

Riverwalk at Bonita Bay ~ 27790 Riverwalk Way ~ $1,695,000

Idlewilde at Shadow Wood ~ 10040 Idle Pine Lane ~ $1,195,000

Riverwalk at Bonita Bay ~ 27881 Riverwalk Way ~ $975,000

Orchid Ridge at Shadow Wood ~ 10151 Orchid Ridge Lane ~ $925,000

Bayview at Bonita Bay ~ 4801 Island Pond Court #704 ~ $725,000

Esperia at Bonita Bay ~ 4951 Bonita Bay Blvd., #402 ~ $699,000

Bay Harbor at Bonita Bay ~ 27209 Shell Ridge Circle ~ $625,000

WE ARE READY TO ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS THIS SEASON www.HomesSWFl.com Carol Wood

CRS, GRI, RealtoR 速

239-822-3709 CWood@JohnRWood.com

Claire McMahon GRI, RealtoR 速

239-405-2794 CMcMahon@JohnRWood.com

CaRol Wood and ClaIRe MCMaHon teaM 52 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

Direct Estero Bay views from this charming updated and lushly landscaped bay home. The living room glass doors showcase the large lanai, pool, spa and Estero Bay views.

Fort Myers Beach | 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | $995,000

Beautifully decorated Waterside unit with great Bay, Gulf & golf course views! Gulf access boat docks available for purchase or lease.

Fort Myers Beach | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | $499,900 Fort Myers Beach

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Top Fort Myers Beach Producer Since 2005 My expert knowledge of our real estate market allows me to help you with your unique needs. I am focused on protecting your best interests through every aspect of the real estate transaction.

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Paradise Coast

Feb 23 - 24

CULTURAL CALENDAR

Feb 1 - Mar 24

Zimbabwe Art Exhibition Naples Botanical Garden naplesgarden.org

Feb 2

Art in the Park Naples Oldest Art Fair Naplesart.org

Feb 2 - 3

Art Fest Fort Myers Downtown Waterfront artfestfortmyers.com

Feb 7

Audubon Annual Feathers & Friends Gala Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club collieraudubon.org

Feb 8 - 10

Naples Art Festival Cambier Park naplesart.org

Feb 9 - 10

Jammin’ in the Hammock Bluegrass Festival Naples 239.394.3397

Feb 16

Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade and Fireworks Downtown Ft. Myers edisonfestival.org

Feb 12

Mardi Gras Evening on Fifth Naples fifthavenuesouth.com

Feb 12 - 17

ACE Group Classic – PGA Champions Tour Twin Eagles Club, Naples theacegroupclassic.com

Feb 15

Everglades Seafood Festival Everglades City evergladesseafoodfestival.com

The Beach Boys Barbara Mann Performing Arts Hall Fort Myers bbmannpah.com

Feb 8 - 10

Feb 16

42nd Annual Seminole Tribal Fair Seminole Okalee Village semtribe.com

8th Annual Wine and Food Festival Punta Gorda puntagorda-chamber.com

Feb 16 - 18

Big Cypress Gallery— 20 Year Anniversary Clyde Butcher Photography Ochopee, Florida clydebutcher.com

Feb 17

Sheryl Crow Philharmonic Center for the Arts Naples www.thephil.org

Feb 19 - 23

Marjory Stoneman Douglas Festival Fort Myers colliermuseums.com

HOT

TICKET

Feb 28

Tony Bennett Barbara Mann Performing Arts Hall Fort Myers bbmannpah.com

54 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

BARBARA MANN PERFORMING ARTS HALL

Feb 22 - Mar 3 Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair Fort Myers leeciviccenter.com

Feb 23

Mar 7 - 9

Sanibel Shell Fair & Show Sanibel sanibelcommunityhouse.net

Mar 9 - 10

Blues, Brews & BBQ Concert Ave Maria avemaria.com

Old Florida Festival Collier County Museum Naples colliermuseums.com

Feb 23 - 24

Mar 9 - 10

Naples National Art Festival Cambier Park 239.262.6517

Feb 24

Blessing of the Shrimp Fleet Festival Fort Myers Beach 239.463.6487

Feb 25

Cinderella – Russian National Ballet Fort Myers fortmyerscommunityconcerts.org

Mar 3

Russian National Orchestra Fort Myers fortmyerscommunityconcerts.org

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival fortmyersbeachshrimpfestival.com

Mar 10

Andrew Lloyd Webber UnMasked Fort Myers gulfcoastsymphony.org

Mar 12 - 17

Les Miserables Barbara Mann Performing Arts Hall Fort Myers bbmannpah.com

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MARKET Report

COMMUNITY

Market Highlights

Local Real Estate is Back

By Clinton Chapman

T

The emerging Florida residential real estate market during 2012 experienced a prodigious number of sales and the momentum is ongoing. The state, and especially Southwest Florida, has now witnessed twenty-four months of solid “comeback,” with strong sales and prices continuing positive trends.

As we move into 2013, critical indicators and statistics continue to substantiate progress and foretell encouraging activity for the year to come.

From the northern shores of Tampa Bay to the southern tip of Marco Island, the news in almost every arena indicates a return to a more balanced housing market, with more closed sales, higher pending sales, higher median prices and a reduced inventory of homes for sale.

Statewide the closed sales of existing single-family homes totaled 18,031 in December, up 15.8 percent compared to the year-ago figure.* Meanwhile, last month, pending sales (contracts that are signed but not yet completed or closed), for existing single-family homes rose 39.7 percent from the previous December.

In addition, the statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes last month, was $154,000 , up

+ 39.7%

+ 14.1%

Pending Sales

Median Sales Price

Single-Family Homes

Single-Family Homes

One-Year Change in

14.1 percent from the previous year.

December marks the 12th consecutive month of higher, year-to-year, statewide median sales prices for both single-family homes and for townhouse-condominium units. In December, the inventory for singlefamily homes stood at a 5.5-months supply and the inventory for townhouse-condominiums was at a 6-month supply.

The luxury real estate market continues to demonstrate exceptional strength in Southwest Florida, where realtors specializing in high-end properties report rapidly improving performance numbers.

Sarasota’s Herald Tribune stated that “December was a monster month for Sarasota County…with luxury sales totaling $85 million with an average price of $1.8 million.”

Supporting these impressive numbers, Michael Saunders & Company, specialists in the luxury market, generated $2 billion with the sales of over 6,000 properties in Southwest Florida’s Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. CEO, Michael Saunders , “We could not be more delighted by these results, as they lend further testimony to the strength of our market’s recovery and to its incredible long-term resiliency.”

Along with the optimism there is still some uncertainty based on our slow growing economy. However, according to a new survey by CPA firm Kaufman, Rossin & Co, Florida business owners saw the health of their companies improve in 2012, and nearly 58 percent are optimistic that progress will continue this year.

“The market continues to improve, and it’s doing so in all parts of the state,” said Florida Realtors Chief Economist, Dr. John Tuccillo. “Of note is the fact that inventory levels are now clearly consistent with a sellers’ market. When the final yearend statistics are compiled, expect that sales in 2012 will be more than 10 percent higher than they were in 2011. Once again, all the positive indicators are up significantly. The Florida real estate market is rapidly improving.”

As recently headlined in a leading Southwest Florida newspaper, “The numbers show it: Local real estate is back.”

*Source Florida Association of Realtors

56 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

One-Year Change in

Luxury Real Estate Specialists Michael Saunders & Company

John R. Wood Realtors

www.MichaelSaunders.com

www.JohnRWood.com

888.552.5228

887.262.1300

Lana Butsky

Deborah Beacham

Hannerle Moore

Jeanne Roedding,

Broker

Realtor

Realtor

Ph 239.777.2532 NeapolitanRealty.com Neapolitan Realty Naples

Ph 941.376.2688

Ph 941.387.7300 www.Hannerle.com Michael Saunders & Co Sarasota

Realtor® John R. Wood Realtors

Frank Petras Realtor Ph 239.595.2221 www.FrankPetras.com John R Wood Realtors Naples

luxurypropertyinsarasota.com

Michael Saunders & Co Sarasota

Mike Koch, Realtor

Barbara Mei

Ph 800.364.8421 x115 mkoch4351@yahoo.com Lahaina Realty

Ph 941.893.7417 www.mybeauciel.com Sotheby’s Premier Realty Sarasota

Ft Myers Beach

Broker Associate

Ph 239.872.1348 Jeanne@NinaLink.com John R Wood Realtors

Howie & Robyn Drourr, & Mary Fiorini Ph 941.812.6476 howieshomes.com Michael Saunders & Co Sarasota

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 57

GULF COAST PROPERTIES

Sarasota | Beau Ciel Opulence and amenities, the ultimate in lock-and-leave lifestyle. This 2 bedroom 3 full bath end residence has spectacular views from every room. A neutral palette throughout, beautifully showcases your prized possessions. The amenities are endless: private elevators, 24-hour concierge service, private pool and spa with summer kitchen, state-of-the-art fitness center, sauna, steam and massage areas, dining and club rooms and a conference center.

$1,295,000 | 2 bedrooms, 3 baths Presented by: Barbara Mei, Broker Associate, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 941.893.7417 | www.mybeauciel.com

Naples | Cascada at Fiddler’s Creek Resort-style, social community ranked in Golfweek’s “Ultimate Guide to Golf Course Living and Great Escapes” for eight years. World-class beach club/marina memberships.

Luxurious coach home renovated to add entertaining space and light. Granite, rich woods, crown moulding, solid wood doors, two-car garage. Wide open sky view over the golf course, preserve, and lake from the large lanai.

$389,900 | 3 bedrooms, 2 baths Presented by: Rosemary Everett & Jessica Bibbee 239.659.6154 | www.rosemaryeverett.com

58 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

GULF COAST PROPERTIES

Osprey | The Oaks Club Located in the exclusive members-only country club community of The Oaks Club. A gated entry welcomes you to this extensively renovated residence of grand proportions and exquisite ambiance. Situated on double lake-front lots , you can enjoy expansive lake views from the open balconies. Generous lanai and kitchen adjacent to a separate fully appointed guest house.

$2,495,000 | 5 Bedrooms, 5 Baths Presented by: Sania Allen, REALTOR速, Michael Saunders & Company 941.266.7829 | SaniaAllen.MichaelSaunders.com

Osprey | Casey Key On the private and exclusive barrier island of Casey Key, this Gulf front home provides a recently updated kitchen with top of the line appliances and wine cooler. The open and spacious living areas offer spectacular full Gulf views. An open deck and adjacent shaded seating area leads to the pristine private beach.

$2,050,000 | 3 bedrooms, 3 baths Presented by: Hannerle Moore, REALTOR速, Michael Saunders & Company 941.387.7300 | www.Hannerle.com

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 59

GULF COAST PROPERTIES

Naples | The Claridge at Pelican Bay This property has it all! Rarely available 18th Floor “D� end unit with floor-to-ceiling windows in living room and large screened lanai that offers spectacular panoramic views of Pelican Bay Estuary and sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. This gorgeous property lives like a single-family home and is located in Pelican Bay, where the lifestyle is unequalled.

$1,350,000 | 3 bedrooms plus den, 2 baths Presented by: Wendy Nelson 239.248.2365 | wnelson@johnrwood.com

Naples | Island Walk Single family pool-home in a gated, village-style community with Restaurant, Post Office, Salon, Gas Station, Car Wash, Fitness Center, Tennis Courts, Bocce Ball, Putting Green, Bike/Walking Paths, Resort/Lap Pools. Comfortable living indoors and out, enhanced with fireplace, crown moulding, plantation shutters. Charming porch, side-loading two-car garage.

Wide western exposure opens to the serenity of water, blue sky and colorful sunsets.

$465,000 | 4 bedrooms, 3 baths Presented by: Rosemary Everett 239.659.6154 | www.rosemaryeverett.com

60 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

GULF COAST PROPERTIES

Osprey | The Oaks Club A luxurious retreat inspired by the elegant style of the Neiman Marcus “Anniversary House” featured on HGTV. Located within The Oaks Club on a manicured private cul-de-sac, this impressive residence features soaring ceilings and stunning finishes to create a refined rustic ambiance. Overlooking the Heron Course fairway, exceptional appointments include full home automation system, award-winning 3D home theater, gorgeous pool and summer kitchen.

$3,699,000 | 4 Bedrooms, 5 Baths / 2 Half Baths Presented by: Nicole Hammons-Dovgopolyi, REALTOR®, Michael Saudners & Company 941.356.5849 | nhammons-dovgopolyi@michaelsaunders.com

Lakewood Ranch

Fort Myers Beach

Masterfully crafted double doors welcome you to this well designed Arthur Rutenberg home with long lake views. Exceptional appointments include saltwater pool/ spa, waterfall and adjacent cabana.

Direct Estero Bay views from this charming updated and lushly landscaped bay home.

The living room glass doors showcase the large lanai, pool, spa and Estero Bay views.

$799,000 | 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths Presented by: Deborah Angelo O’Mara, Realtor®, MS&C 941.228.6241 | deborahomara.michaelsaunders.com

$995,000 | 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths Presented by: Mike Koch, Realtor®, Lahania Realty 239.246.0679 | MikeKochFloridaRealEstate.com

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 61

ARCHITECTURALHistory

COMMUNITY

DRAFTING PROGRESS IN PARADISE

By Barry Stein Henry Ford and Thomas Edison

The area of Southwest Florida has long attracted the attentions of the highest strata of American society. Two of the most influential men in our nation’s history, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, can be included at the top of that list.

Part of living the privileged life of two of the world’s greatest inventors was to revel in nature and create the ultimate garden to enjoy and share with others. Edison’s wife Mina joined in the inventiveness, and created a Moonlight Garden, with the help of M. Stipple, one of the first women Landscape Architects.

Mina was an inventor as well, as she designed the garden with light colored plants that would bloom in the moonlight and be breathtakingly viewed in the Reflecting Pool, complemented by floating plants. The prolific garden would have staggered monthly bloomings, and includes a long list of tropical fruit and exotic trees from around the world.

Fourteen royal palm trees form a natural aisle, where couples take their final stroll as singles into matrimony. However, the primary Moonlight Garden reason Edison bought this property was because of the variety of bamboo that grew wild throughout the grounds.

Though their Ft. Myers’ properties were primarily seasonal residences and research facilities, the Fords and the Edisons frequently hosted rich and famous guests. The wide southern style wrap around porches of the estates were invented for rocking and talking among such friends. The twin main buildings appear as two traditional Florida Style framed houses, connected by a breezeway. At one point in history they were separate identical homes, but now the larger connected house is considered a wing displaying the main living quarters. The smaller attached

62 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

building houses the dining room, kitchen, guest and servers accommodations.

In the late 1800’s, as Edison continued his obsession to make a better light bulb, he was unhappy with the light that the filament produced, and pronounced his famous quote, “discontent is the first necessity for progress.” He believed that “genius was 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration” and was prepared to sweat in search of a certain kind of bamboo that would burn brighter and longer in his new bulb. So Edison

Images courtesy of The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel & Edison & Ford Winter Estates

T

Two brilliant minds partnering on a vacation-research retreat could mean nothing less than amazing architecture and 1,700 plant varieties, including award winning trees, a fertile laboratory and garden. One of those trees was planted one weekend in 1925, when Ford invited his tired friend Harvey Firestone to the estate. The three of them planted the tree, and it is now one of the largest Banyan trees in the continental United States! Is this not a metaphor for growth and success by three men who changed our world?

grabbed his friend and business partner, Ezra Gilliland and headed to St. Augustine, Florida, in the winter of 1885. Disappointed with the unseasonable temperatures, the inventive partners hopped on a carriage to Jacksonville, where they boarded a train to Cedar Key, on the west coast of Florida. The two friends floated down the Gulf Coast to Punta Rassa, near Sanibel Island, and stayed overnight at the Schultz Hotel, known to attract the rough and tough.

Edison’s Guest House

Their next stop would be a virtually unknown frontier town called Ft. Myers, population 349. Away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and on the shores of the Caloosahatchee River, Edison purchased 13 acres from a cattle baron named Samuel Summerlin for a whopping $2,750. They called the retreat “Seminole Lodge” and a new chapter began in the history of one of our nation’s most famous inventors, as well as changing Ft. Myers forever.

As Edison built his Detroit Illuminating Company, he met Henry Ford, who was on the road with a little invention of his own. He turned to Edison for help with the battery and starter system for his automobiles. The two became fast friends and frequently vacationed together at the Seminole Lodge. In 1916, Henry Ford got a call from Edison’s next-door neighbor, a man by the name of Robert Smith. Smith was looking to sell his property, called “The Mangoes,” and knew that Ford and Edison were friends who frequently vacationed together. In August of 1916, Ford sent a check to Smith for $20,000 to purchase the property next to Edison’s.

Edison, Ford, and Burroughs with family and friends on a camping trip in the Florida Everglades.

Henry Ford’s new home featured extraordinary cypress and pine woodwork, storybook built-in window seats and a magnificent fireplace mantel. Over time, Ford added a north and south wing, which increased the size of the beautiful Craftsman bungalow-style home to a sprawling 3,000 square feet. The expanded wings feature an additional bedroom and bathroom along with two exterior rooms, most likely used by the staff that traveled with the Fords during their visits to Fort Myers. Known for quoting great wisdom, Ford’s vision to partner with Edison on this estate was finally coming together. “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”

Ford and Edison continued their success together for about fifteen years until 1931, when Edison passed away.

Soon after, Ford stopped coming to their retreat, and in 1945 the Fords sold The Mangoes to Thomas and Gladys Biggar. It became their family home for the next 40 years, until the Biggars sold it to the City of Fort Myers in 1988.

The home was restored to its 1920s appearance Cont.

Edison, Ford, and Firestone were keenly aware of the role of politics and international affairs in their business success. It seems likely that their earliest discussions on the quandary of rubber availability may have occurred near the campfire, leading them to the incorporation of the Edison Botanic Research Corporation (1927), headquartered in Fort Myers, Florida, with a goal of raising and producing an organic source of rubber in the United States, thus relieving the nation’s dependence on foreign rubber.

www.FloridaHomesMag.com | 63

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Continued from page 63 and was re-opened to the public in 1990.

Two years after Ford sold their property, Edison’s widow deeded the Seminole Lodge to the City of Fort Myers as well, in memory of Thomas Edison.

It too was restored and re-opened to the public in 1950. In 2006 the property got an infusion of capital, a restoration face-lift and is available for the world to discover.

Edison’s Labratory

So much about Fort Myers had changed with the arrival of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford that this writer is surprised the town isn’t called Ford Myers. As you can imagine, Edison had something to do with bringing telephone service to the little frontier town as early as 1900. Ford and Edison’s donations helped finance the first volunteer Fire Department and naturally a municipal public water system had to be built to accommodate Edison, Ford, Eastman, Firestone and the flood of guests that would arrive. Entertainment and business catered to them, which made the downtown area boom and put Fort Myers Country Club on par with some of the best clubs in the world. Did you ever wonder why the Tamiami Trail links to Miami at Fort Myers? Mystery solved! Edison’s wife Mina took the trail T’Miami often.

Today, any of us could drive across the trail or to Disneyland or Busch Gardens and be dazzled by the entertainment and thrill of brightly lit amusements.

But to sit on the same huge porch where those brilliant minds rocked, is a whole other thrill. Especially when one realizes they couldn’t drive to those destinations, much less see those bright lights without Edison or Ford. It doesn’t take a genius to know that Fort Myers offers a variety of amazing tourist destinations, but it did take a couple of geniuses to invent the Edison and Ford Winter Estate.

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Nokomis | Casey Key Casa Al Mare offers the epitome of classic Italian architecture in its most refined form. Architect Thorning Little designed this Gulf-to-bay masterpiece, situated on the coveted stretch of Casey Key with the deepest boating water. An impressive foyer entry welcomes guests to this picturesque six bedroom residence, featuring an incredible great room with a soaring coffered ceiling and expansive terraces. With 230 feet of gulf frontage and a beach cabana with a rooftop deck, in addition to expansive bay frontage, boathouse and private dock, Casa Al Mare is the ultimate waterfront paradise.

66 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE

$9,400,000 | 6 beds, 7 baths / 2 half baths | 7781 Sq Ft Represented by Deborah Beacham, P.A., Realtor速, CRS, GRI, TRC Luxury Waterfront Specialist Michael Saunders & Company Direct 941.376.2688 DeborahBeacham@MichaelSaunders.com www.LuxuryPropertyinSarasota.com

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