A Model Of Inspiration

From their first glimpse of the impressive brick paved driveway, visitors to Gulfstream Homes’ San Marco model residence know they are going to be impressed. `Attention to detail’ are the bywords invariably used to describe this stunning home, located in Verandah, a gated, master-planned community in Fort Myers, developed by The Bonita Bay Group.

The expansive flow of the floor plan, an abundant use of natural and ambient lighting, tray ceilings and elegant, Old World ambiance all combine to make the San Marco an inspired model home.

The interlocking brick walkway at the front of the residence leads visitors to the magnificent half octagonal entry portico supported by four soaring columns. Double eight-foot tall entry doors embellished with etched glass open into the entry foyer, where, off to the left, is the impressive dining room with its rich Providence oak plank hardwood floors, generous crown moulding and a 13-foot tray ceiling featuring rope lighting. The dining room imparts a feel of baronial space with its large, arch-topped windows, while the custom art niche is the perfect space in which to showcase heirloom artwork. The generous use of rich fabrics and rich dark woods impart an Old World Mediterranean feel.

To the right of the foyer, opposite the dining room, is the study/sixth bedroom and just beyond is the living room, with hardwood floors extending into this gracious space that is the perfect setting for entertaining. An impressive wall of glass features eight-foot solid core
sliding doors with windows above leading to the bricked lanai, showcasing a swimming pool, spa and expansive views of the lake beyond. The living room provides access to both the master bedroom and kitchen, which is reached through dramatic double archways.

The kitchen is a chefs’ dream; an open, airy space appointed with antique white Southern Stone hardwood cabinets and a center island, all finished with granite counter tops. Attention has been paid to ambient lighting, with soft under-counter lights, recessed ceiling lights and extra lighting over the plant ledge. A custom range hood, double oven and full complement of top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances make this kitchen perfect for even the most experienced chef.

The tray ceiling soars to 11-feet and the breakfast bar with comfortable seating allows family and guests to converse with the cook in style. The adjoining breakfast café, a cozy dining area with dramatic views, provides ample space for intimate dining.

The adjoining, spacious family room features large glass sliders that open onto the lushly planted lanai and pool area. An optional built-in entertainment center makes this the perfect space for relaxation. There are three bedrooms and three baths in this wing of the home, as well as a fifth bedroom/game room off the family room. This clubby space features a custom niche with built-in cabinetry that is perfect for game and audio/video storage. The attached bath also serves the second covered lanai and acts as a pool bath for guests.

The master suite runs the entire length of the house and offers a regal, self-contained space in which to relax in privacy. Richly appointed with crown moulding and a custom faux finished tray ceiling, this generously sized suite includes a tranquil and elegant sitting area that features a large window affording expansive views of the garden. Glass sliders provide the owners’ suite with access to the lanai and spa.

Off the corridor leading to the master bath are his-and-hers walk-in closets offering abundant dressing and storage space. The master bath itself is a symphony of creamy marble, custom-glazed cabinetry and mitered glass.

The focal point of the room is the inviting whirlpool tub, behind which is a stunning, glass encased, walk through shower featuring seating and multiple Kohler shower fixtures.

The San Marco model residence is richly appointed with every extra a homeowner could ask for, yet it is environmentally-friendly, as well. Since September 2003, Gulfstream Homes has committed to building homes that can be certified by the Florida Green Building Coalition. The builder has developed and implemented a selection of standard features that are certified as "green" features, which serve to enhance the homes’ energy efficiency, indoor air quality and environmental friendliness. These green features include Energy Star water-using appliances, low VOC paints and carpets, CCA free lumber and completely recycled drywall. In addition, 80% of all construction waste is recycled.

Combine all of these features and place them in an award-winning community and you come up with an unbeatable pairing. The Bonita Bay Groups’ Verandah community encompasses 1,456 acres along a nearly two mile stretch of the Orange River. Community features include two 18-hole championship golf courses, the Golf House restaurant and a River Village dedicated to boating, with a canoe and kayak launch and a general store. Authentic Southwest Florida lore and food are served up at a riverside restaurant called the Alligator Pear, while Jesse Fish is a relaxing lounge from which to admire the sunsets. Verandah also offers a tennis and
fitness center and a full-service public marina.

The San Marco offers five bedrooms, four baths, a study and family, dining and living rooms with 3,885 square feet of living space under air and a total of 5,203 square feet.

GULFSTREAM HOMES
239 280-3108
www.gulfstreamhomes.com

Written by Kristine Hughes

Photography by Jim Freeman Photography