The three-story, ocean-to-river estate located at 12440 Highway A1A in Ambersand on the northern end of the barrier island is the perfect castle by the sea. You don’t have to be royalty to enjoy the oceanfront home which overlooks 170 feet of ocean frontage and a riverfront parcel with a private dock, but you’ll definitely feel like you should be wearing a sun-kissed crown bejeweled with sea glass.
As you pull through the gated entrance, you’ll find a mermaid frolicking in the fountain showcased at the center of the circle drive. The waterfall-fronted, imperial staircase hints at the grandeur that lies in the three-story estate.
The opulent two-story foyer entrance with a transom window offers a warm welcome before you focus on the spectacular ocean view in the main living space on the second level. The formal living area invites guests to settle in by the gas fireplace with stone surround and mantle to gaze at the changing hues of the sea.
Architectural details permeate the 5-bedroom house with textured walls, faux-gold enhanced ceilings, wood details, coffered and custom tray ceilings, columns, archways, art niches, marble floors and crown molding.
The south side of the house holds two bedrooms with water views. A luxurious, full bath separates the rooms, creating a grand guest suite. It’s easy to watch boats sail by from the window seat in the west guest room and the tide roll in from the balcony off the east guest room or descend the spiral staircase to the pool.
The north side of the castle by the sea is designed for optimal entertainment. An elegant formal dining room with art niches and custom built-ins offers a river view with convenient access to the butler’s pantry, wet bar and kitchen area.
For more casual entertaining guests can gather in the oceanfront breakfast room, in the cozy seating area with window seats or on the balcony. The gourmet chef’s kitchen makes entertaining a breeze with Jenn-Air stainless steel appliances, Sub-Zero refrigerator, a coffee station, desk area and powder room to boot. The laundry room and elevator are located on this side of the house for easy cleanup on all three levels.
A wrought-iron staircase leads up to the third-floor master suite. The spacious room is fit for royalty with breathtaking views of the ocean and plenty of space with his and her walk-in closets and baths. To further indulge in the royal treatment a dressing area, lighted makeup vanity, walk-in shower, built-in television and soaking tub overlook the ocean.
The master suite also includes a beverage station, seating area and reading nook also overlooking the ocean, making it unnecessary to leave the suite except to restock or hit the beach. The den and private bath provide another layer of separation for quiet contemplation. Port-hole windows add a touch of sailer’s nostalgia with views of the Indian River Lagoon.
Head down to the media room on the first level for entertainment and relaxation. This hidden gem features a 6-foot-by-9-foot viewing screen with built-in projection equipment, kitchenette, large wine cooler and ice maker for guests playing games or hanging out by the pool. There are several seating areas for games, cards or reading on hot days when you want to escape the sun. This distinct living area serves as the perfect haven for teens, a mother-in-law suite or guests with two bedrooms and two full baths.
From the first level it’s easy to pop out to the freeform, oceanfront pool and spa where a dolphin fountain oversees outdoor activities. Enjoy the solitude of this secluded beach, frolic in the surf and build castles in the sand to your heart’s content. After calling it a day on the beach shower off by the pool and stow away beach toys in the 3-car garage,
“This gated estate offers numerous unique attributes, not the least of which is an ultra-rare ocean to river lot, plus close to Sebastian Inlet,” says Michael Thorpe, Treasure Coast Sotheby’s International Realty broker-owner.
The property includes river frontage just across A1A, with a private riverfront dock and river access. Ambersand Beach, McLarty Treasure Museum and the Sebastian Inlet are nearby. Surfers are minutes from Monster Hole and Spanish House if they want to ride the waves. Directly across the lagoon and a short boat ride away, grab a bite to eat at one of the boater-friendly restaurants, explore Riverview Park or drift down the river to the Pelican Island Sanctuary or the Environmental Learning Center.
Vital Statistics
Address: 12440 Highway A1A
Neighborhood: Ambersand Beach
Year built: 2000
Lot Size: 170’X440’
Home size: 5,565 sq. ft.
Construction:
concrete block with stucco
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 5.5
Additional features: gated entrance, security system, electric hurricane shutters, gas fireplace, beverage bar, elevator, soaking tub, butler’s pantry, gas cooktop, wine cooler, media room, 3-car garage, pool, spa, outdoor shower, riverside dock and private beach access.
Listing Agency: Treasure Coast Sotheby’s International Realty
Listing Agents: Michael and Kimberly Thorpe, 772-532-0449
Listing Price: $ 4,495,000
