Date Archives: February 2017

Gemini is an exquisite ocean-to-Intracoastal compound on Manalapan's prestigious barrier island, offering a park-like botanical oasis unlike any other. The 16-acre gated property is reminiscent of an island, fronting 1,200 feet of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean in addition to 1,300 feet along the serene Intracoastal Waterway. The centerpiece of Gemini is the 12-bedroom main residence, but the compound includes separate guest quarters, two four-bedroom beachside cottages, a seven-bedroom Mango House, a manager's house with four apartments, and manager's offices. With a grand total of just under 85,000 square feet, Gemini has 33 bedrooms, 34 full bathrooms, and 13 powder rooms. The property also hosts a pool, tennis court, basketball court, and even its own golf course. Priced at $195 million, Gemini was named the most expensive property for sale in the country last year. The jaw-dropping price tag is well placed for its obvious grandeur, historic value and unbelievable features. Let's take an exclusive look inside Gemini, a breathtaking property that exceeds all expectations.

Old Florida Design

  Elegant with an effortless feel, the generously scaled main residence has a warm tropical wood motif that blends with brilliant stone finishes. The natural shell-stone columns and coral stone sheathes the entire façade as well as several interior walls to emit a timeless Old Florida feel.

Lush Foliage Throughout + Breathtaking Vistas

  The property is surrounded by a dense canopy of lush tropical foliage, and enjoys uninterrupted ocean views, visible from the many loggias and balconies throughout.

A Resort-Style Pool + Entertainment Space

The stunning orchid loggia and grotto-like pool terrace hosts tasteful fountains, adding to the spellbinding setting amid walls of tropical jungle greenery that reach toward the sky.

Recreational Facilities Throughout

The sports complex features a regulation tennis court, half basketball court, playground, miniature golf course, and charming butterfly garden with a large-scale model train. Near the delightful Robinson Crusoe-style tree house, you will encounter a spa and cold plunge pool.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Commercial-grade amenities include the museum-quality climate-control systems, elaborate high-level security system, indoor/outdoor sound system, cell phone signal booster, and two elevators.

Meticulously Designed Gardens

The gardens themselves are a naturalistic wonder, landscaped with some 1,500 species of tropical trees and plants including over 120 species of palms, plus ancient cycads, epiphytes, ficus trees, ferns, orchids, bromeliads and vines. Meticulously planned, the gardens are assembled with plants grouped according to their geography, ranging from various Caribbean islands to Central and South American regions.

A Professional Golf Practice Area Near the Beach

Gemini features its very own PGA-standard golf practice area alongside the property's private beach. Sand-carpeted paths weave throughout tropical foliage, and two passageways, one large enough for a golf cart, connect to the Intracoastal side where a dock and pier serve the shoreline.

A Rich History

The original home was designed by architect Marion Sims Wyeth, constructed in the 1940s for the Lambert pharmaceutical family. The property later became a winter retreat of Loel and Gloria Guinness, who was a fashion icon and socialite of her time. The current owners collaborated with noted Palm Beach architect Edson E. Dailey on a complete transformation of the property, which was completed in 2003. The entire residence was reconstructed and expanded to create a home as exquisite as it is well-engineered to withstand the elements.

See More

For more information on this prestigious compound, visit the Gemini online.

South Florida is a region known all across the globe for its impeccable golf courses. Members of local country clubs bask in the exclusivity of these private courses, and enjoy the various member-only amenities, including restaurants, spas, fitness centers and event spaces. The leisurely lifestyle of South Florida residents means there is no shortage of country clubs and private golf courses in the area. Furthermore, the pleasant tropical weather of the region creates a pristine atmosphere for this popular sport. Beautiful views, bright green fairways, well-designed layouts, and lush landscaping make these some of the best private golf courses in the area.  

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

Boca Raton

Photo Courtesy of Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club is one of South Florida's premier private clubs, offering members a wide range of activities within their state-of-the-art facilities in Boca Raton. To increase the club's exclusivity and desirable nature, members may only join Royal Palm by invitation. Their beautiful course was originally designed in 1959 by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and has since been updated by legendary golf course designers Joe Lee and Jack Nicklaus. Not one detail was overlooked within this prestigious 18-hole course dotted with stunning water features and lush foliage.  

Fort Lauderdale Country Club

Fort Lauderdale

Photo Courtesy of Fort Lauderdale Country Club

Fort Lauderdale Country Club was established in 1926, and is proud to be the oldest private country club in Broward County. Their rich history of service to their affluent members makes them a trusted course in the area, as they "provide their members and their guests with a lifestyle of the highest quality through the traditions of golf." The club's emphasis on and care for their golf courses is evident, as they are the only private club in the county that offers 36 holes of manicured championship golf. Members enjoy the sport in a forested park-like setting, as the fairways are lined with stately indigenous trees and colorful flowers. With their two full and well-maintained courses, competitive tournament schedule, and popular ladies golfing program, Fort Lauderdale Country Club is one of the most desirable golf courses in the South Florida region.  

Boca West Country Club

Boca Raton

Photo Courtesy of Boca West Country Club

Boca West Country Club is the nation's largest private equity owned clubs, and its golf courses certainly match its prestige. Throughout Boca West's 54 distinct villages lies four 18-hole championship courses designed by some of the best golf course architects of our time: Pete Dye, Arnold Palmer and Jim Fazio. At Boca West, you will discover strategically placed bunkers, rolling fairways winding through the natural Florida landscape, and putting greens that test your touch. Members enjoy a four-acre short game area, a driving range with 50 tees, individual golf pro shops, and a restaurant.  

The Moorings Yacht & Country Club

Vero Beach

Photo Courtesy of The Moorings Yacht & Country Club

The Moorings Yacht & Country Club in Vero Beach is a private member-owned club offering a wide variety of sports and social amenities in an elegant, relaxed and welcoming environment. Golfers, yachters and socialites flock to The Moorings for the luxurious lifestyle awaiting. The championship Hawk's Nest Course was designed in 1987 by Jim Fazio, and is one of the few "green courses" left in Florida, as it boasts tall pine and oak trees to maintain the natural look of the property. The Moorings Course was designed by Pete Dye in 1974, and is often called his "Little Gem". It is one of the more breathtaking courses to behold, as the entire front nine holes are surrounded by water. Furthermore, the back nine feature majestic oak trees and offer an awe-inspiring view of the Indian River Lagoon.  

The Seagate Country Club

Delray Beach

Photo Courtesy of The Seagate Country Club

The Seagate Country Club in Delray Beach features one of the finest golf courses in the region, crafted especially for those who are up for a more challenging game. The course was originally designed in 1973 by noteworthy golf architect, Joe Lee, and was recently restored with advanced technology that maintained the true spirit of the original design. This 18-hole championship-style golf course stretches across 300 acres, winding through bass ponds and other natural features teeming with wildlife. Members love the new state-of-the-art practice facility featuring a fully outfitted driving range, putting green, short game pitching, and a staff of PGA professionals on site.

Header Image Courtesy of The Moorings Yacht & Country Club

We admire the clean and refreshing look of modern design, with its sharp edges, minimalistic feel, and unexpected elements. These aesthetics, combined with the latest in modern home technology, have formed some of the most cutting-edge experiences interior design has ever seen. Some of the most stunning modern estates in the industry exist in Fort Lauderdale, a city known for its superior real estate, tropical landscape and upbeat downtown. Take an exclusive look inside some of the most attractive modern interiors in the city.  

Striking Lakeside Estate With Black + White Contrast

This brand new property along the shore of Lake Mayan is a piece of art — inside and out. The front courtyard welcomes guests with gentle sounds of a waterfall spilling into a reflecting pond. The interior makes a bold statement throughout, with a stark contrast of black and white, abstract shapes, and soaring glass windows overlooking the pool and lake. The view of this estate from the resort-style outdoor living space is just as striking, due to its bright, contemporary and rectangular appearance.  

Waterfront Estate With Lots of Natural Light

Silver detailing, glass features and lots of white space make this waterfront estate something truly spectacular. The design throughout is chic and sophisticated, while still remaining relaxed and engaging. Natural light floods the interior, due to the large glass doors lining the wall between the first-floor living area and the pool.  

Transitional + Modern Estate With Indoor Garden

This private estate in the guard-gated island enclave of Bay Colony brings a fresh perspective to modern interior design. It branches out to a darker color scheme while still maintaining a neutral tone. It clings to the sharp edges of modern design, while introducing some unexpected materials. We particularly admire the entryway leading to the living space with soaring ceilings and a lush indoor garden.  

Contemporary Condominium Overlooking the Ocean

This estate in the sky boasts exceptional ocean views from nearly every vantage point in this luxurious two-story penthouse residence. Experience the modern feel of this spacious unit with an elliptical living room wrapped with full-height windows leading to an oceanside terrace. The master suite enjoys its own private level, complete with a spa-like master bathroom with a jetted tub and glass-enclosed shower.  

Modern Penthouse With Water Views

This modern penthouse is the size of an estate, and enjoys all the desirable amenities within the prestigious Landings at Las Olas community. It takes over half of the fifth floor of this intimate boutique condominium, featuring four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. But perhaps more noteworthy than its grand size is the striking modern design throughout. The clean lines, stark contrast, and unique features (such as the asymmetrical bathroom sink) make this residence truly stunning. Take in spellbinding water views from the expansive wrap-around balcony or simply unwind in the lush living area connected to the bright and spacious kitchen.  

Which of these modern estates catches your attention?

We would love to know which is your favorite!

Smart home technology has the ability to take luxury living to a whole new level. Jaw-dropping features and the ultimate in convenience are available at the press of a button — or simply the sound of your voice. Discover some of the latest devices in modern home technology, many of which you may be aware of, and some of which are new to the market. Make your estate more sophisticated and sleek with one of these state-of-the-art upgrades.  

Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Every smart home needs a robot — a vacuuming robot, that is. iRobot Roomba 980 gives you clean floors throughout your entire home at the push of a button. It seamlessly navigates an entire level, keeping track of its location with its advanced sensors. It will even recharge itself as needed. And of course, you may manage your robotic vacuum using the iRobot HOME app so you can easily schedule your cleaning on the go.  

Television Disguised as a Painting

Photos Courtesy of Vutec

Disguise a blank television screen when it is not in use with the Artscreen System from Vutec. Inside a beautiful frame, the artwork ascends or descends with the touch of a remote to reveal your television. When the screen is not in use, a museum-quality piece of art is displayed within the frame. Choose from a variety of frame styles, sizes, liners, and artwork choices to find the style that fits your decor. You may even display personalized art, custom artwork or personal photographs to create a more custom Artscreen.  

Voice-Controlled Motorized Blinds

Save time and energy with the ultra-convenient, sleek and quiet Serena® Shades, which operate by remote or with the sound of your voice via the Lutron Smart Bridge. You may schedule the blinds to adjust automatically at certain times during the day, or manage them from anywhere in the world through the Lutron app on your smartphone. These attractive motorized shades are battery-powered, which means they are extremely low-maintenance, reliable and wire-free. Imagine effortlessly letting in bright beams of sunshine throughout your entire home before you even get out of bed in the morning.  

Ultra-Modern Outdoor Security Camera

Photo Courtesy of Netatmo

There are a number of security systems available on the market, but the Presence Security Camera is one of the best. You may instantly access real-time footage of your property on your phone, and Presence is even able to differentiate between a car, person or animal entering the premises. This elegant and modern aluminum camera installs as an outdoor light and produces excellent high-definition video footage to keep your property safe at all times — day or night.  

Transparent Television Screen

Keep an eye out for one of the latest developments in home technology to become widely accessible in the near future. Panasonic recently created a transparent television screen, which appears to be a clear piece of glass until it miraculously turns into a high-definition television with the push of a button or the wave of a hand. Imagine the surprise of guests when a colorful screen appears out of thin air at your next gathering.  

Lock Activated By Smart Phone

Photo Courtesy of August

This techy August Smart Lock adds convenience for you and your family as your smartphones become a smart key to enter your home. But it adds a touch of sophistication and security when welcoming guests into your property as you can create virtual keys for guests and keep track of who comes and goes. Plus, the door automatically locks behind you for added security, and you can lock and unlock your door (or check its status) from anywhere on your smartphone or Apple Watch.  

Thermostat That Studies Your Habits

The Nest Learning Thermostat is one of the more impressive thermostat systems out there. This third-generation model learns what temperatures you like and builds a schedule around your preferences. You can even adjust your home's temperature from afar on the Nest app. Since 2011, the Nest Thermostat has saved over 8 billion kWh of energy in millions of homes worldwide.