A distinguished landmark. An icon of history. A masterpiece of design. All of these words perfectly describe Casa Alva, perhaps one of the most gracious estates in the Palm Beaches. Designed by Maurice Fatio in 1935 for Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan, this was the only residence constructed to cater to the superb tastes of the former Duchess of Marlborough, who oversaw nearly every aspect of its design.

Incorporating Madam Balsans European sensibilities, great care was taken in each and every detail. The Balsan’s purchased many of the estate’s most exquisite architectural embellishments overseas, most notably the 18th and 19th century French boiseries that adorn the walls of nine rooms. And with only two owners, Casa Alva has been lovingly nurtured to retain its elegant beauty and rare interiors.

With a stroll around the enchanting property, one is easily transported back in time to a grander era, when Sir Winston Churchill visited the estate, and even painted a portrait of the grounds.

Over the years, Casa Alva has been featured in numerous international design journals, creating a legacy that simply cannot be matched on South Florida’s Gold Coast.

Lands End Road, Point Manalapan, Florida. In the heart of Florida’s Gold Coast between Palm Beach and Boca Raton, the exclusive oceanfront hamlet of Manalapan offers an unrivaled quality of life in the idyllic beauty of a quiet barrier island. Manalapan residents enjoy private club privileges at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel’s La Coquille Club, offering a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, tennis courts, pool and beach facilities.

Casa Alva encompasses 5+/- acres of exquisitely manicured grounds along 500+/- feet of direct lake frontage. Graced with expansive lawns, gardens, coquina stone patios, meandering walkways and luxuriant foliage, this regal Mediterranean-style estate provides both tranquility and privacy. A shorefront guest cottage that cantilevers over the water with an outside deck, affords an exclusive retreat. A long drive sweeps to the estate’s formal entry and serves the conveniently placed 4-bay garage. The loggia, one of the most beautiful features of this estate, blends indoor and outdoor living, featuring a Portuguese tile wall mural and intricately patterned treillage, and is ideally suited to entertaining. An elegant resort-style pool offers picturesque appeal, framed by perfectly groomed landscaping and beguiling sculptures. An additional parcel of property directly on the Intracoastal Waterway offers deepwater dockage.

Old world design and craftsmanship are the hallmarks of this lavish residence that has been carefully and lovingly designed for luxurious enjoyment. This masterpiece features architectural details reminiscent of a bygone era, 25,000+/- square feet of living space comprised of 8 bedrooms, 7 full baths, 2 elegant powder rooms and 4 staff wash rooms.