by Betty Cortina-Weiss | December 8, 2017
The Roost: A Breath of Fresh Air
Five properties that combine outstanding design with a gorgeous setting take outdoor living to a whole new level.

Photography courtesy of One Sotheby’s international realty
MIAMI
Escape South Florida’s urban jungle in this elegant—and massive—equestrian estate located in south Miami. Perched on five lush acres of impeccably manicured land, and with more than 11,000 square feet of living space, the two-story Mediterranean, built in 2009, boasts six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, vaulted ceilings, a gourmet kitchen and multiple fireplaces. Fully furnished, it also features luxurious amenities like detached guest quarters and a separate carriage house, two gazebos, a full outdoor kitchen, barns and stalls, and a spectacular pool framed by palm trees.
14949 SW 184th Ave., Miami
LIST PRICE: $4,490,000

Photography courtesy of Christie’s International Real Estate/Michael Saunders
SARASOTA
Designed by acclaimed architect Guy Peterson of Sarasota, this contemporary three-story, four-bedroom home has an impressive unobstructed view of the Gulf of Mexico. Built in 2008, it boasts floor-to-ceiling glass walls and waterfront balconies in just about every room. Dine al fresco on the terrace and take a dip in the heated pool or a sip at the outdoor bar—all while watching one of those famed west coast sunsets. The nibbles can be whipped up in the high-end chef’s kitchen, which features custom cabinetry and Miele appliances. Or make it a night on the town: Charming Siesta Village, where fresh local fare and music blend deliciously, is just a short stroll from the home’s private gate.
150 Givens St., Sarasota
LIST PRICE: $3,995,000

Photography by Mike Liddell
JACKSONVILLE
This stately Tuscan sanctuary on the banks of the St. Johns River is grand inside, but its most exquisite feature is a stunning infinity pool flanked by dual docks and surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens. An outdoor cabana with a lovely seating area, fireplace and summer kitchen complete the open-air terrace. It can all be taken in from the spa, which is perched on a second-floor master suite balcony overlooking the spectacular view. Other amenities include a four-car garage with a concealed workshop, a wine cellar with a copper ceiling, a theater room and an elegant library with hand-engraved artwork.
2535 Spreading Oaks Lane, Jacksonville
LIST PRICE: $2,490,000

Photography by Eric Kovacs
JUPITER
Why not blend the rustic charm of horse country with the sophisticated chic of contemporary Florida design? This 12,815-square-foot, one-story home, built in 2014, does so masterfully, blurring the lines between outside and in with walls of windows that overlook 20 acres of peaceful green space. Fully furnished, the abode has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, and an open floor plan. It sits in the luxurious Ranch Colony gated community, where amenities include a golf course, horse trails and even a landing strip suitable for small planes.
1901 SE Ranch Road, Jupiter
LIST PRICE: $4,950,000

Photography courtesy of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate
ORLANDO
This 4,400-square-foot estate with more than 1,000 feet of lake frontage and a 650-foot-long seawall was completely renovated in 2015. The house features an open floor plan, a second-floor master suite, and an impressive double island kitchen with custom cabinets and quartz countertops. The three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home is also equipped with smart technology throughout. Outside, there’s everything a Floridian lakeside estate needs: double boat docks, jet ski lifts, a pool and private beach, a summer kitchen and a gas fire pit. All of it is nestled under gorgeous live oak trees.