COVER STORY
The home was designed in the style of Addison Mizner, a renowned American architect whose Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival style is evident throughout South Florida. Barrel tile roofing, ornate exterior window trim, wrought iron work and an abundance of balconies are all Mizner touches that are seen throughout Meander. The exterior of the property is a charming mix of aged old oaks and meticulously designed hedges and landscaping. The property is rich with a variety of fruits from carambola to mangos, tangerines, avocados, lychees, and figs. The front of this grand home is warm and peaceful with soft lighting in the evening beckoning to those who arrive via the circular drive. Wide stairs lead to the expansive porch and double hand forged Cantera front doors and once through the entry, time slips away and it’s as if you’ve crossed the Atlantic and entered a European villa. A sweeping mahogany staircase draws the eyes upward, settling on a glittering chandelier and fresco medallion on the entryway’s ceiling. Step down into an expansive formal living room framed by four regal Doric columns. The room is anchored by a floor to ceiling fireplace created with a custom mantel featuring Corinthian columns. A wall of floor to ceiling windows brings the river view indoors. Warm glowing wood floors finish the elegance here. This polished room is designed on a grand scale that is simply breathtaking. All rooms in this home are generous but the Chef's kitchen is substantial and unparalleled with an enormous center island, double Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezers, Thermidor 8 burner gas range, Fisher Paykel dishwasher drawers and Miele espresso center. From the marble floors to the custom designed wood trey ceiling, this room has a generous display of old world luxurious finishes and details. The creamy white furniture style cabinetry and granite counter
tops provide lots of space for creating gourmet meals. Adjacent to the kitchen is a butler’s pantry and breakfast or informal dining room. The beautiful formal dining room features gorgeous marble floors inlaid with wood and an intricately designed trey ceiling. The dining room comfortably seats a large dining party with lots of room for those imported buffets and cabinets worthy of such a room. The family room features a beautifully designed wood trey ceiling and an expansive wall of windows to view those evening sunsets over the river. A bar with built-in wine rack is perfect for cocktail hour. Of course, this home would not be complete without a wine cellar. This one appears to have been transported from Tuscany with beautiful tile flooring, faux painted walls and ceiling. The first-floor master suite, just off the formal living room, also has a custom designed trey ceiling, herringbone pattern wood floors and French glass doors leading to the patio. The coup de resistance is a beautiful fireplace with a marble base and a lovely carved mantle. The suite’s sitting room is the perfect place to curl up with a cup of tea and a romantic novel. To call the master closet and dressing room massive is an under-statement. With dozens of drawers and hanging closets, plush carpeting underfoot and glowing chandelier, this room will cater to the most sophisticated tastes. The ensuite is centered with a stand-alone spa tub and features his and hers vanities and a double walk in shower. The unique marble counters and wood tub encasement gives a rich warmth to the room. Perhaps the most interesting room in this magnificent home is the study. One can almost imagine sitting at the circular bar for after dinner drinks and conversation, or lounging in the warm leather furniture. The ceiling is designed with a large wood framework of beams and recessed lighting.