Villa Meraviglia: A Neo-Classical Italian Renaissance Masterpiece on Sarasota Bay

Tucked behind walls and gates along the prestigious shores of Oyster Bay, Villa Meraviglia at 1310 S Lake Shore Drive in Sarasota is a home that truly lives up to its name—“The Marvelous Villa.”   TAKE THE YOUTUBE TOUR click here

Offered at $26,400,000, this extraordinary Neo-Classical Italian Renaissance estate sits on 1.22 pristine bayfront acres with 146 feet of direct frontage on Little Sarasota Bay, offering sweeping water views that rival the elegance of Italy’s Lake Como.

With 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, a three-car garage, and nearly 10,700 square feet of interior living space, the estate is a rare fusion of classical European artistry and modern luxury living.

A Grand Arrival

From the moment you approach Villa Meraviglia, the experience is unforgettable. A bold metallic entry gate crowned with a striking Medusa head creates a dramatic sense of arrival, hinting at the artistry that awaits beyond.

Two additional gold-leafed gates with electromagnetic openers provide secure access to the estate, including a private entry leading directly to the neighboring yacht club. Encircling the property is an over-800-foot custom perimeter wall, itself an architectural statement of luxury, craftsmanship, and privacy.

European Inspiration, Sarasota Setting

The home was completely reimagined and expanded under the guidance of a classically trained Italian architect, drawing inspiration from iconic Italian estates such as Villa del Balbianello and the famed Casa Casuarina.

Inside, timeless craftsmanship defines every room. Architectural highlights include:

• Venetian plaster walls

• Custom millwork gilded in 23-carat gold

• Hand-painted frescoes

• Pecky cypress ceilings

• Intricate stone-inlaid courtyards

These details combine to create a residence that feels less like a home and more like a living gallery of classical European design.

Designed for Entertaining and Living

The residence offers expansive entertaining spaces alongside intimate living areas designed for comfort and creativity.

Features include:

• Four ensuite bedrooms

• Four full and two half baths

• Two Clive Christian-inspired kitchens

• Multiple entertaining salons and gathering areas

• Over 4,000 square feet of air-conditioned creative and leisure spaces

Frescoed ceilings, tranquil terraces, and elegant courtyards create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living.

Resort-Style Waterfront Living

Step outside and the estate transforms into a private waterfront retreat.

Layered terraces and lush gardens frame unobstructed panoramic views of Little Sarasota Bay, while a private dock with boat and jet-ski lifts offers effortless access to the water.

The outdoor living spaces rival a luxury resort and include:

• A mosaic-clad resort-style pool

• An elegant octagonal pavilion

• A beautifully designed summer kitchen

One of the most beloved gathering spots is the sunken poolside kitchen, designed for relaxed alfresco dining. A large propane grill rises smoothly from its concealed appliance lift, while 100-year-old reclaimed Chicago brick flooring, a herringbone ceiling, and custom maple dining furnishings create an inviting, Old-World atmosphere.

Versace-Inspired Artistry

The pool terrace showcases an artistic design inspired by the legendary Versace estate, featuring smooth Italian marble stones arranged in intricate geometric mosaics that echo classical mythology.

A Medusa mosaic walkway leads gracefully from the pool terrace toward the dock, blending artistry with architectural drama.

From imported Italian roof tiles to hand-cast balustrades, bespoke lighting, and custom hardware, every element of Villa Meraviglia reflects a deep commitment to craftsmanship, authenticity, and permanence.

A Rare Sarasota Masterpiece

Perfectly private yet ideally located, Villa Meraviglia sits just minutes from Sarasota’s vibrant cultural scene, fine dining, Gulf beaches, and the historic Field Club.

The result is a property that feels worlds away from everyday life, yet remains connected to everything that makes Sarasota one of Florida’s most desirable coastal destinations.

Villa Meraviglia is more than a luxury home—it is a statement of artistry, architecture, and waterfront living at its most extraordinary.

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3 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q: What makes Oyster Bay Estates one of Sarasota’s most desirable neighborhoods?
A: Oyster Bay Estates is one of Sarasota’s most prestigious waterfront communities, known for its large estate homes, deep-water boating access, and exceptional privacy. Located west of the Trail, it offers quick access to Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and some of the area’s best private clubs, including The Field Club. Residents enjoy a quiet residential setting while remaining just minutes from downtown Sarasota’s dining, arts, and cultural venues.

Q: Is direct boating access available from Villa Meraviglia?
A: Yes. The property features 146 feet of direct frontage on Little Sarasota Bay and includes a private dock with boat and jet-ski lifts. From here, boaters enjoy convenient access to Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, making it ideal for those who love waterfront living and boating.

Q: What makes this property architecturally unique compared to other Sarasota luxury homes?
A: Villa Meraviglia stands apart due to its Neo-Classical Italian Renaissance design and extraordinary level of craftsmanship. The home was reimagined by a classically trained Italian architect and features Venetian plaster walls, 23-carat gold gilded millwork, hand-painted frescoes, imported Italian materials, and Versace-inspired mosaic stonework. Few homes combine this level of European artistry with Sarasota’s waterfront lifestyle.

Shayla Twit
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)
Corcoran Dwellings

If you are considering buying or selling property in Sarasota, Manatee, or Charlotte County, I would love to help guide you through the process.

Communication is my reputation, and your call is always important.

📞 Call or Text: 941-544-7690
📧 Email: shaylatwit@gmail.com
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