The gracious manor on the shores of the Atlantic at 1158 Shorelands Drive East is grand certainly, but not grandiose; breathtaking, but not intimidating; elegant, yet casual – a beautiful, comfortable home set amongst palm and seagrape, designed for both the convenience and aesthetic sensibilities of its owners. The waters off its beach are said to have some of the best fishing on the Treasure Coast.
At the end of a cul-de-sac, the drive curves into a large courtyard, itself a striking design element, the concrete pavement cross-hatched with strips of deep green mondo grass. Formal landscape design and an impressive two-story, arched entry enhances the estate’s impressive from-the-curb presentation.
Immediately upon stepping into the open foyer, guests experience their first “Wow!” moment: A magnificent open staircase crosses the space, sweeping upward into an open, balconied, wrap-around gallery. Past the grand staircase, across the spacious, light-filled living room to the formal dining area, a curved glass wall reveals a panoramic view over the dune line to the sparkling ocean. The home’s elevation, 17 feet above sea level, enhances the already terrific ocean view.
Pale, natural Travertine flooring provides flow throughout the home, the extra-large tiles in pleasing proportion to the 6,000-square-foot living space. The walls are predominantly pale, the beautiful millwork, crown molding and elegant tray and vaulted ceilings white. Recessed lighting complements the abundant natural light, illuminating without distracting from the home’s handsome lines.
A powder room is conveniently located just off the foyer to the north. South from the living room, the family room is anchored by a simple, striking black granite fireplace, flanked by floor-to-ceiling display shelves and cabinets. As in the living room, a glass wall to the east offers an ocean view and access to the covered, wrap-around veranda.
The family room opens into an informal dining area and chef’s kitchen, with its side-by-side KitchenAid fridge, vaulted, nickel-joint ceiling and recessed illumination. There is plenty of white-wood cabinetry and sleek, cocoa-toned granite counter space. The two-level island offers a lunch counter, small rinsing sink, 4-burner gas Thermador cooktop and oven, and conveniently placed electric outlets. The big double sink is positioned beneath wide, plantation-shuttered windows, so whoever gets KP duty can enjoy a great view while doing those necessary kitchen chores.
Off the kitchen is a nice, roomy pantry with 3-sided, floor-to-ceiling shelving; a laundry room; and, on the south side, a clever and whimsical pool bath (with a beach locker room vibe and outside access), equipped with shower, w/c, wood bench seating, storage for beach gear and a porcelain pedestal sink featuring – wait for it – fire engine-red fixtures.
The bathroom’s south-side exit leads down lighted steps to a gate, though a shady arbor and out to the community beach access – a paved path and wooden boardwalk over the natural, seagrape and seagrass dunes to the pristine beach. The boardwalk is equipped with a shower and seating.
From the south side, a separate, carpeted staircase leads to a charming “mother-in-law” suite situated over the 3-bay garage. Its white woodwork offsets dusty olive walls and a cheerful raspberry-hued bathroom. A well-appointed kitchenette, recessed lighting, lofty ceiling, shelving for books and storage and a window seat complete this inviting hide-away.
The first floor’s north wing houses two lovely guest suites: the west-end suite offers large plantation-shuttered corner windows, recessed lighting, full bath with shower and walk-in closet. The suite on the east end could be considered a “mini-master,” with its full bath, water closet, tub and shower; fabulous ocean views; and a pair of double glass doors accessing the pool and veranda.
Ascending the grand staircase might take a while, as one pauses every few steps to take in the gorgeous ocean views. If you don’t have time for the scenic route, there is a convenient elevator just off the foyer, which delivers its passengers to the west end of the gallery. Here, a cozy window seat beckons with a lovely view to the west and a perfect spot to read, daydream or enjoy the sunset, perhaps with a glass of pinot noir or sauv blanc.
The gallery’s east side provides room for a comfy seating area and will likely prove one of the home’s most lingered-in spaces. Here is, literally, front-row seating to the ever changing sea and the tropical weather that informs it. Homeowners can observe Mother Nature’s myriad moods from the comfort and security of their strong, sturdy dwelling.
The second-floor guest room boasts a walk-in closet, full bath, and ocean views through an east window wall with access to the balcony, which extends across the entire east side. This room can easily be converted into a study or office.
The second-floor master suite, on the north side, is a dazzling private retreat, affording the home’s most magnificent views. A pair of double glass doors open onto the balcony. From here, you can see far down the coast to the north and south, and enjoy the most wonderful sea breezes. To catch the sunrise over the ocean, you need only raise your head from the pillow. Of course, a steaming cup of coffee out on the balcony is a fine option, as well.
The master bath is truly masterful, with split his/hers granite-top vanities, meeting the needs of each with privacy, plenty of space and no “infringing.” Her side includes a dressing table, and lots of custom storage, including a special jewelry cabinet. Both sides access the Jacuzzi tub and adjacent walk-in shower with ocean view. Here, too, there are two large walk-in closets, one with ambient light through a lovely oculus window.
Outside, a covered veranda extends the length of the home. A handsome knee wall edges the deck, heated pool and Jacuzzi. An unexpected, just-for-fun addition here is a whimsical, functional putting green. Marine lights along the low walls provide perfect mood illumination for nighttime gatherings. With the glass doors open, the kitchen can be easily accessed, and there is plenty of space for entertaining groups of any size, with a seamless flow from inside to outside.
Shorelands is a just a short drive from Vero’s charming village by the sea, with its many shops and restaurants. Also on the island, in Riverside Park, are the renowned Riverside Theatre (Equity) and the highly respected Vero Beach Museum of Art, as well as jogging trails, tennis courts, a boat launch, and a 5-acre dog park.