Bahamian Elegance

    
It takes something special to set a custom home apart in an area such as Southwest Florida that is known for its impeccable residences. The stunning Quail West residence is a collaboration between McGarvey Custom Homes and architects from the Eric Brown Design Group is that one-of-a-kind residence.  

McGarvey Custom Homes designed the home in order to embody classical Southern inspiration and embrace an Old Florida feel, coupled with grand Bahamian colonialism. Destined to be a stand-out, the residence got off to a stellar beginning with the unique choice for its site—an island style lot in Quail West with a nature preserve at the front of the residence, the golf course on two sides, and a lake with far-reaching views at the rear. Today, the two-story home, very private with no neighbors in sight, is approached via a 870-foot long drive complete with landscaped island. More charm is added with gabled rooflines, Old Florida shutters and French doors throughout.

The impressive entry foyer, graced by cherry-stained French doors, has a transom above allowing natural light to fill the space and highlight the architectural columns and a tray ceiling detailed with wide crown moulding. Exquisite polished marble floors are used throughout the home and the entry floor further boasts a tumbled marble and mosaic inlay that serves to define the space and welcome guests. The nearby staircase boasts polished marble treads and risers and a custom handrail.
 
Soaring two-story ceilings stand as architectural features in the public rooms, including the stunning dining room. Here, entertaining is conducted on a grand scale with a table that can comfortably accommodate ten. A wall of French doors, accented in crisp white trim, opens to the outdoor living area—further defined by graceful columns and the lavish use of architectural moulding. Tall vases and an oversized candelabra chandelier emphasize the generous proportions of the space.

Muted tones of taupe grace the walls of the living room where the true star is the stunning view, as seen through the two-story wall of windows, offering uninterrupted views of the pool and lake beyond. Whether in the early morning or at sunset, the ever-changing scene can be comfortably appreciated from this space that has been furnished with understated Colonial charm.

A traditional sofa, wingback chair, and polished hardwood coffee table are accompanied by a hand-woven rug that features Indian influences. Bahamian style abounds in the gourmet kitchen with its custom-painted, hand-glazed cabinetry that extends into the well-designed pantry beyond, complete with custom-designed china storage, work desk and a window offering impressive views. Rich in veining detail, the granite countertops extend to the expansive dining bar and a center island finished by a decorative stove hood set into a coffered ceiling. Here too, rich moulding detail abounds and the well-designed arrangement of professional appliances affords ease of use.  

Adjacent to the kitchen, the family room features custom, built-in cherry bookcases and an entertainment center, while the sliding glass doors with disappearing corners offer spectacular views. Casual elegance is offered by overstuffed sofas and chairs accented by rich hardwood tables.

In the study, the fireplace with its sizeable keystone mantle, vies with the views for pride of place. Rich custom-built stained cherry cabinetry, bookcases and moulding trim are contrasted by the lighter maple floors. The coffered ceiling, red leather chairs, and bold desk complete the baronial feel of the room.
 
 
Nearby in the master bedroom, the Colonial four-poster bed stands beneath a double tray ceiling adorned with the generous application of applied and crown moulding. The taupe walls and richly layered bed coverings provide a soothing retreat, while the sitting area is perfect for reading or for enjoying the views of the pool beyond. Additionally, the guest bedrooms in the residence, each generously sized and large enough to offer two queen-sized beds, also boast their own private baths.

The master suite offers his-and-hers baths and an abundance of closet space with built-in storage. In “her” bath, rose marble, maple cabinetry and lavish layers of subdued lighting lend the space a spa feel. Carrying through on that theme, the jetted soaking tub, strategically placed to dominate the center of the room, is separated from the walk-through shower by a custom made glass panel with decorative metal inlay. The built-in vanity features large mirrors, while the chandelier above is an elegant finishing touch. Beyond the shower is a private garden perfect for privacy and meditation.  

When it’s time for lavish celebration, this home is the perfect venue, offering two stories of entertainment areas, each complete with a fireplace. Below, the huge covered lanai offers guests both seating and dining areas, while the upper deck is the perfect place from which to watch the views or sip a mint julep. The custom pool offers a walk-in sun shelf, perfect for sunbathing and the design offers clean square lines and an infinity edge along 75 percent of its perimeter, leading the eye directly to the lake beyond. Surrounding the pool, the deck boasts sand-set tumbled marble pavers, while the planters and fountains have been faced with slate.
 
     
     
Southern charm is personified in this residence, where McGarvey Custom Homes has once again produced a stunning home that reflects the vision of its owners and the well-earned reputation of its builders. The owners’ desire to blend both Southern and Colonial charm is evident throughout the home. The use of soaring architecture, impressive columns, and rich mouldings throughout, give a nod to Bahamian chic, while the gracious outdoor living areas, stately fireplaces, and French doors lend the home a feel of the Old South. Taken all together, the residence offers a statement that is uniquely its own. Price upon request.  
By Kate Pakenham
Photo Credit: Tom Harper Photography

McGarvey Custom Homes
9530 Marketplace Rd Ste 301
Fort Myers, FL 33912
Phone: 239-738-7800
www.McGarveyCustomHomes.com
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