Within the prestigious confines of the Gables Estates Club, just 15 minutes south of downtown Miami, Sweet Bay Point was conceived as an estate of incomparable tropical splendor. This private peninsula on Biscayne Bay embraces stands of live oaks and mahogany trees, breezy palms, manicured garden terraces, two swimming pools, and a wraparound waterscape of brilliant blue. At more than five acres, it is the largest deepwater bayfront property in Coral Gables.

Beyond the monitored entry gates, a tree-lined drive proceeds to the elevated entrance court and a residence that consists of five distinct structures united by a succession of loggias, galleries, gardens, and––in the case of the dining pavilion––sparkling reflecting pools. The home was designed in 1972 by its original owner, Florence Knoll Bassett, founder of Knoll Furnishings and recognized as one of the world’s top designers. Over a period of four and one-half years, from 1996 to 2001, the present owners took the place “down to the walls” and virtually rebuilt the home, creating a minimalist canvas framed in glass, Italian limestone, mahogany, rosewood, and granite. For the 1,500-square-foot living room—a magnificent gallery for entertaining—broad bay views are the chief design element. For the library, a hand-hewn warmth is established amid mahogany bookcases and floors and surfaces of Italian limestone. Every space, including the six bedrooms, features a view of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, or a secluded lagoon that also borders the peninsula.

Not so visible are the incredibly high-tech “works” of Sweet Bay Point, from 19 zones of central air conditioning and humidification and a museum-quality halogen lighting system to a 300-CD hard drive containing some 16,000 musical selections. The plasma televisions, home theater sound and projection equipment, 12-camera security system, and independent generator––capable of sustaining the estate indefinitely during an emergency––are all state of the art. So, too, is the French kitchen—a Bonnet Cidelcem Maestro Cooking Suite, one of only two such designs in the United States.

Seemingly its own island in the sun, Sweet Bay Point invites a lifestyle known only to royalty, with all the personal privileges. Down at water’s edge, amenities include a volleyball court in the sand, a tiki hut, a 1,275-foot seawall, a floating Jet Ski platform, and a fully outfitted dock ready to receive yachts in excess of 100 feet. From this exceptional property, it’s smooth sailing to the Gulf Stream, Bahamas, Florida Keys, and Caribbean Islands. $27,000,000. Inquiries to Audrey Ross, or www.miamirealestate.com

For more information, contact:
Esslinger-Wooten-Maxwell, Inc.
4689 Ponce de Leon Boulevard
Coral Gables, Florida 33146