A sense of timeless elegance emanates from the stately, two-story, riverfront home at 150 Anchor Dr. in The Anchor, a guard-gated enclave in The Moorings.
The immaculately kept home, reminiscent of a southern-style manor, has had only two owners since its construction by Rick Hope of the Hope Co., shares Daina Bertrand, realtor with The Moorings Realty Sales Co.
A circle drive, lush landscaping and a gated courtyard at the front of the house, which is set back from the roadway, create a buffer between the house and the quiet street. The home’s appearance is quite dramatic, highlighted by automatic landscape lighting and copper roof accents.
The house is sited at the tip of the “anchor,” and owner Dr. William N. Kelley recalls, “My reaction on first seeing the house was the spectacular view of the Intracoastal and the fact that no one can ever develop that whole 10-plus-mile stretch on the mainland that is so beautiful.”
Adding to the ambiance, a trio of mahogany French doors across the living room’s back wall frame a spectacular view of the Indian River Lagoon and The Moorings’ Pete Dye Golf Course across the bay on Porpoise Point.
“This is a premier location,” agrees Bertrand. “You have the big views, but you’re not on the full western side. In terms of wind and wave action, this is really nice if you’re a boater because you’ve got a more protected anchor for your boat.”
“And inside, there’s a nice mix of formal spaces for entertaining but also some areas with a casual feel. You have a lot of options,” says Bertrand, “giving you the best of both worlds.”
From the moment you step into the foyer, the fine finishes, custom millwork and quality craftsmanship are apparent, from the elegant Morano glass chandelier in the foyer to the rich, wood flooring and arched interior and exterior doors throughout. The traditional floorplan naturally flows onto the patio, expanding your entertaining opportunities.
A gallery hall runs perpendicular to the formal living room with access to two guest suites, stairs and an elevator in the north wing, with the more functional, communal gathering spaces in the south wing.
The spacious, formal dining room, featuring smoke bell lighting fixtures reminiscent of the Colonial era, is located just off the foyer with a wide opening conveying views through to the living room and with easy access to the powder room. At the center of the house, a gas fireplace and wet bar are easily accessible.
The three-car garage and laundry room are conveniently located adjacent to the kitchen to unload groceries and clean up after dinner parties. Around the chef’s kitchen – where everyone seems to gather – are a sitting room, the family room and a breakfast nook with a waterfront window seat.
A pot rack hangs over the island at the center of the kitchen, where the black counter gleams against the contrasting white cabinets and stainless steel appliances. A built-in desk provides space to stay organized. Doors open onto the covered patio for convenient outdoor access.
The upper level was originally designed as an expansive primary suite with an office, fitness room, his and her bathrooms and a bedroom at the center with a private sunset balcony. The owner currently uses these ancillary rooms on the upper level as an office and a fourth bedroom for guests.
The versatility of the floorplan allows for flexible use of space, explains Bertrand. “You can use the upstairs as a private retreat or for additional family.”
The office has a kitchenette and full bath, perfect for an in-law suite or live-in help.
Outside, the backyard runs along 127 feet of water frontage. Mature foliage provides a natural barrier for privacy when lounging alongside the heated pool without detracting from the wide-open river views.
A path of flagstone pavers leads down to the dock and a 16,000-pound boat lift, making it easy to head out for a day on the Intracoastal Waterway or across the bay to The Moorings Yacht & Country Club.
Porpoise Bay provides protection from wind, yet you still have easy access to the lagoon. A parade of watercraft and wildlife traverse the waterway regularly, from rare tropical birds to marine mammals and reptiles to game fish. You might spot a sailboat or a spoonbill one day and a slow-moving manatee or rolling tarpon on another.
The Moorings Property Owners Association offers private beach access and patrolled security. The Moorings Yacht & Country Club provides access to Pete Dye’s signature course, Jim Fazio’s Hawk’s Nest championship course on the mainland, tennis, pickleball and croquet courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center with pool and spa, and a yacht club as well as fine and casual dining.
From The Moorings, it is a short drive to Vero’s Ocean Drive for shopping and dining or to Riverside Theatre and the Vero Beach Museum of Art for cultural outings. For families with children, Saint Edward’s School conveniently abuts the community.
Photos provided
