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This Is My South

A travel guide to the Southern USA

The South’s 5 Most Stunning Mansions (That You Can Tour!)

June 12, 2013 By Caroline Eubanks Leave a Comment

There was a time when the robber barons and oil tycoons from the North would own a second home down South to spend half of the year. It was America’s Gilded Age and the homes have the opulence to match the time period.

The land was plenty and the weather was mild for these “snowbirds,” who created lavish summer getaways in the region. Since that time, everyone from presidents to celebrities to rock stars has settled here.

We’re not talking about plantations , but these lavish residences are in a league all their own. Since most of these homes are still privately owned, photos are not allowed inside, unless otherwise specified.

Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina

Built in 1889 by George Washington Vanderbilt II, the 250-room estate has become one of North Carolina’s most visited tourist attractions, complete with ahead-of-its-time features like an indoor swimming pool and bowling alley. The gardens were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame.

Biltmore Estate in Asheville  holds the title of the largest home in America. It’s also been used as a filming location for movies like Richie Rich and Forrest Gump . The attraction now boasts multiple hotels, restaurants, a winery, and traveling exhibits like the costumes of Downton Abbey . Book your  Biltmore Estate and Wine Tasting from Charlotte  before you go.

Hay House, Macon, Georgia

Featured on the A&E show “America’s Castles,” Macon ‘s Hay House  is even more stunning on the inside than on the outside. Built in 1855 in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, the 18,000 square-foot mansion has custom-made sliding doors, glasswork, and a unique cupola. The family lived here until 1962, at which point the Georgia Trust Foundation took over.

The Swan House, Atlanta, Georgia

The  Swan House  is one of Atlanta ‘s most recognizable landmarks, not to mention a popular spot for weddings. The Inman family, heirs to a cotton fortune, called it home in the 1920s and 30s. There’s even a popular book series based around the home. It was also featured in The Hunger Games film series.

As a part of the Atlanta History Center , you can see the many rooms of the home as well as the gardens. A ticket for the Atlanta History Center allows you to tour the museum, the Swan House, the Smith Family Farm, and the Margaret Mitchell House . Visit on the  Atlanta Historical Homes Tour . 

Villa Vizcaya, Miami, Florida

James Deering, vice president of International Harvester, chose this location outside of Miami for his dream home. Built from 1910 to 1922, the construction of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens  employed most of the area’s residents at that time.

It was built and decorated to resemble an old Italian villa. The gardens, which once consisted of 180 acres, are still the highlight of any visit to the mansion. The home also offers views of Biscayne Bay. Book your Transportation to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens before you go.

Ca d’Zan, Sarasota, Florida

Ca d’Zan in Sarasota , Florida was the home of John Ringling of circus fame. The elaborate 56-room Venetian-style mansion was built right on the water and was designed by Dwight James Baum. The five-story, 41 room, 36,000 square foot mansion was filled with luxurious furnishings and art.

Today you can tour the mansion and see for yourself the decor that the family would have picked out when they lived here. Go for a guided tour or a self-guided tour, which run on the hour. It’s included in the Ringling Museums ticket price.

About Caroline Eubanks

Caroline Eubanks is the editor of this website, a Lowell Thomas award-winning travel writer, and the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States. Her stories from the South have appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Afar, Thrillist, Roads and Kingdoms, and BBC Travel.

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10 Most Beautiful Historic Southern Plantation Homes You Can Visit

Southern charm: 10 of the most historical southern plantation homes.

With their historic architecture and stunning gardens, historical Southern plantation homes are full of old-world charm and beauty. More importantly, they have rich stories to tell because they played significant roles in our nation’s history.  If experiencing the storied history and architectural beauty of a southern plantation home is in your future, then these charming historical Southern plantations should not be missed:

Pebble Hill Plantation

Located in Thomasville, Georgia, this antebellum plantation and museum was first established when Thomas Jefferson Johnson purchased the land in 1825. Johnson first raised cotton and then introduced rice, a profitable crop in Georgia during the 19th century.

After Johnson’s death, the plantation was inherited by his daughter, Julia Ann. In 1850, a lovely plantation home was built upon the property by English architect John Wind.

Julia and her husband struggled with the property during Reconstruction in the South, and the property was purchased by Thomas Melville Hanna in 1896. After his death, Pebble Hill passed to his daughter, Kate, who turned it into a hunting estate, which were popular during the mid-1880s.

Kate’s daughter, Elisabeth, inherited the plantation after her mother’s death in 1936 and decided to turn the plantation into a museum for all to enjoy. Today, the grounds are well-maintained and feature beautiful gardens that are worth exploring.

Evergreen Plantation

If Evergreen Plantation seems familiar, you might have seen it featured in Quentin Tarantino’s 2012 film, “Django Unchained” . The stunning Greek Revival style building and plantation grounds were used as a backdrop to shoot some of the film’s scenes.

Located in Edgar, Louisiana, just outside New Orleans, the plantation is considered the most intact plantation in the South and still produces sugar cane to this day. As you explore the grounds, be sure to check out the 22 intact slave cabins, which are arranged in a double row along its oak alley.

Whitney Plantation

Whitney Plantation, located in Wallace, Louisiana, was also featured in “Django Unchained” — but this isn’t your typical historical Southern plantation. In 2014, the 2,000-acre property was converted into the first slavery museum in America.

Unlike other plantations, Whitney Plantation doesn’t sugarcoat the lives of enslaved Africans who worked the former indigo and sugar farm. Jim Cummings, the owner of Whitney Plantation, has spent millions on the museum’s artifacts and restoration to give visitors a true sense of life in the antebellum South.

Shirley Plantation

Dating back to 1614, Shirley Plantation is the oldest plantation in America . Located in Charles City County, Virginia, the plantation once produced tobacco that was sent around the colonies and shipped to England.

Although the land was originally settled in 1613, a portion of the land was granted to Edward Hill in 1638. Anne Hill Carter, who was born on the plantation, was the mother of Confederate General Robert E. Lee.

In fact, Hill’s direct descendants continue to own and operate the plantation to this day, making it the oldest family-owned business in North America.

Nottoway Plantation

Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, Louisiana, is home to the South’s largest antebellum mansion. The ornate, Greek and Italianate style mansion is bursting with opulence and demonstrates the vast wealth of prestigious sugarcane planter John Hampden Randolph.

Built in 1859, the jaw-dropping mansion has three floors and a total of 64 rooms, 165 doors, 12 hand-carved Italian marble fireplaces and 200 windows. The spectacular home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is now a resort destination.

Belle Meade Plantation

Located in Belle Meade, Tennessee, the Belle Meade Plantation is a beautiful Greek Revival mansion that now operates as a museum. The land was originally purchased by John Harding in 1806 and used to produce cotton.

Harding quickly became one of the largest slave holders in the Nashville area. With his new fortune, he built a brick house on a small hill, which he called “Belle Meadow.”

What started as a 250-acre property would become a 5,300-acre farm that raised thoroughbred horses. The farm survived the Civil War and was passed down through generations of the Harding family until they ran into serious debt in 1893. The plantation was sold in 1906 and was converted into an educational non-profit organization in 1953.

Magnolia Plantation

Founded in 1676 by Thomas Drayton, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is renowned for its beautiful gardens and rich history. Located along the banks of the Ashley River near Historic Charleston, S.C., the 464-acre property has survived natural disasters, as well as both the American Revolution and Civil War.

There is much to see and do at Magnolia, so be sure to carve out a couple hours to walk through all the gardens, take a tour of the magnificent plantation home and let the kids enjoy the petting zoo.

If you’re visiting the wonderful city of Charleston, you can’t miss Boone Hall. Located across the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant, S.C., Boone Hall is America’s oldest working plantation and the most photographed in the country.

People from across the world come to Boone Hall to see its famous Avenue of Oaks, explore the working plantation and Georgian-style home and experience the only live presentation of Gullah culture at The Gullah Theater. Educational and awe-inspiring, it’s easy to see why this historical Southern plantation draws thousands of visitors each year.

Destrehan Plantation

Established in 1787, Destrehan Plantation was originally a thriving indigo plantation and sugarcane farm. Situated 25 miles from New Orleans, this antebellum mansion is noted for its French Colonial style architecture, which was later modified with Greek Revival style elements.

Destrehan Plantation has a fascinating history that starts with the plantation’s second owner, Jean-Noel Destrehan, who was deeply involved in the state’s politics, serving on the Orleans Territorial Council and as a U.S. senator until he resigned after a month.

Destrehan paved the way for the Creole system of slave labor, in which head slaves were appointed to oversee tasks on sugarcane plantations. Although the history is dark, the plantation’s costumed historical interpreters do an excellent job of telling the rich stories of the Destrehan family and the slaves who worked there.

Belle Grove Plantation

A trip to Belle Grove Plantation gives visitors the opportunity to venture into the past and see what life was like for early settlers in Shenandoah Valley. Located near Middletown, Virginia, the 1797 antebellum plantation is still farmed today and features a large limestone manor house in Federal style architecture.

The impressive manor was built by Major Isaac Hite and his wife, Nelly Madison Hite, the sister of President James Madison. The home was originally named after Nelly’s grandmother’s home in Port Conway, Virginia, which is the site where James Madison was born.

Now a historic house museum, visitors can tour the large manor, an 1815 icehouse and smokehouse, a slave cemetery and a heritage apple orchard — all set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Full of History and Charm

Before the outbreak of the Civil War, there were more than 500,000 plantations and farms in the South. Although many did not survive reconstruction, those Southern plantation homes that have remained well-preserved now offer an invaluable glimpse into our country’s storied past.

*************************************** About The Author:    Traci Magnus was raised on the Charleston Coast and attended the College of Charleston before moving to New York City in the mid 1990s. Her first job in the Big Apple was with the renowned NYC real estate brokerage Douglas Elliman. For the next decade, she honed her marketing skills at some of Madison Avenue’s top advertising agencies. In 2006, she returned to Charleston along with her husband Glenn and their son Max. She joined the  Dunes Properties  team in early 2008 as Director of Marketing. ***************************************

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Intracoastal Mansion Cruise | South Florida

Enter the glitter and glam of South Florida on this half-day private boat tour that showcases one of the most impressive collections of estate mansions and mega-yachts in the country. The Intracoastal Mansion Sightseeing Cruise winds through the passages of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, a renowned water route that stretches from Virginia to Miami.

As we cruise pass Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale aboard 48-ft. motor yacht Sea Ray Sedan Bridge, witness immaculate shorelines and century-old architecture, while you feast on a gourmet meal and drink. Admire the playground of magnificent yachts and mansions (including some celebrity homes!) on the shoreline, many designed by Addison Mizner, the original architect of the “Boca Raton Resort and Club.”

You have the option of partaking in swimming, fishing , snorkeling or any other water activity to add extra diversion to your day. Cruise includes meal, open bar (assorted beer and wine), soft drinks and bottled water, all under the supervision of an attentive crew and captain. All this and more when you take South Florida Intracoastal Waterway boat tour with Get Excited!

Contact us today for rates and availability!

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• Mansions of Miami Beach Tours

Home   ›   Mansions of Miami Beach Tours

Explore Miami's Glamor: Bilingual Sightseeing Cruise & Mansions Tour

Join us for an unforgettable tour with our Mansions of Miami Beach Sightseeing Cruise. This unique bilingual tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the mesmerizing beauty of Biscayne Bay, while getting an exclusive glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Miami's elite. Navigate through the beautiful waters and be captivated by the panoramic views of Miami's skyline, the vibrant Port of Miami, the secluded Fisher Island, and the sun-kissed shores of Miami Beach. Our tour showcases the opulent Mansions of Miami Beach, a testament to the lavish lives of the rich and famous, making it a prime choice for those interested in the luxury mansions Miami Beach is known for.

Our 90-minute Miami boat tour is designed to provide a serene and comprehensive sightseeing experience. Whether you choose to enjoy the journey from the climate-controlled comfort of our yacht's main level or prefer the breezy, open-air ambiance of the top level, you're guaranteed to have a memorable time. This cruise is the perfect escape for those looking to relax and soak in the scenic beauty of Miami's waterfront and its architectural marvels, making it a must-do for tourists and locals alike interested in Miami Beach boat tours and the Miami waterfront experience.

As you glide along the bay, our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights in both English and Spanish, making this an inclusive experience for all. This tour is not just a sightseeing adventure but a deep dive into the heart of Miami's cultural and architectural heritage. It's an ideal way to experience the Miami skyline and landmarks, offering insights into the architectural marvels Miami boasts, and providing a glimpse into the lives of Miami's rich and famous through the homes tour.

Join us for this meticulously crafted Miami Beach Mansions Cruise, your gateway to discovering the allure and splendor of Miami's most prestigious sights and landmarks. This experience combines luxury, history, and breathtaking views into one extraordinary adventure, perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage tour of Miami.

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Chinsegut Hill Historic Site

Open every weekend, Chinsegut Hill Historic Site is located atop one of the highest points in Florida and surrounded by a 114-acre preserve. From prehistoric people to pioneer settlers, from an agrarian plantation before the Civil War to the emancipation of enslaved people, Chinsegut Hill has witnessed thousands of years of Florida’s history.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday • 22495 Chinsegut Hill Rd, Brooksville, FL 34601

Tour tickets

Brooksville's frontier outpost and progressive-era gathering spot.

Located atop one of the highest points in Florida, Chinsegut Hill is home to a historic house in a 114-acre preserve. From prehistoric people to pioneer settlers, from an agrarian plantation before the Civil War to the emancipation of enslaved people, Chinsegut Hill has witnessed thousands of years of Florida’s history. During the 1920s and 1930s, new homeowners hosted progressive-era luminaries Thomas Edison, Helen Keller, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, and others before eventually donating the property to the government.

Explore the diverse stories of Florida’s past in one unique location: Chinsegut Hill Historic Site.

Tours every weekend

The Chinsegut Hill Historic Site is open Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Guided house tours are available, with the last tour beginning at 4 p.m. Please purchase tickets ($5) in advance. History Center members and children ages 6 and under are free.

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History of Chinsegut Hill

1842: The Armed Occupation Act offers homesteaders Florida land.

1840s-1852: Bird Pearson acquires a Florida homestead and moves his family to Hernando County. The family brings with them more than 20 enslaved individuals. Bird practices law and establishes a plantation.

1852-1866: The Ederington family acquires the property from Pearson in 1852. Like Bird Pearson, Ederington is a lawyer and slave owner who establishes a plantation. While living in Hernando County, he acquires more land, is involved in the timber business, and builds a new home on the hill. That home was the first version of the current house.

1866-1904: Charlotte Ederington Snow and Joseph Russell Snow acquire the property. Joseph was a farmer and state politician. He served on the local county commission and as a state-level lawmaker in Tallahassee. The family grew crops on their land, but freezes in the 1890s devastated their citrus trees.

1904-1932: In 1904, the Robins family repaired the house, and named it Chinsegut Hill. The Robins family was actively involved in progressive political causes. They advocated for greater rights for women, the working class and the impoverished. They entertained famous Americans at the home, including Thomas Edison, J.C. Penney and Helen Keller.

1932-1954: Raymond and Margaret deeded over 2,000 acres of their Hernando County property to the U.S. federal government for $1 during the Great Depression. The agreement, however, stipulated that the Robins family could live there until their deaths. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Civilian Conservation Corps established a camp at Chinsegut and conducted agricultural research and conservation projects.

1954-1958: The U.S. Department of Agriculture deeded the manor house and the 114 acres around it to the University of Florida.

1958-2008: The house and 114-acre property was leased to the University of South Florida for $1 per year.

2008-2019: The Friends of Chinsegut Hill group operated the property.

2019-present: The Tampa Bay History Center opens the historic home for weekend tours in partnership with Hernando County.

Latest videos from the Hill

FOX 13's One Tank Trips

Aerial Views of the 114-Acre Preserve

May 19, 2015

Field trips and group tours

Discover Chinsegut Hill’s incredible past through the fascinating personal stories of those that called it home. This Brooksville estate is on the National Historic Registry and will make Florida history come to life with docent-led tours that connect historical events to Next Generation Sunshine State Standards. Schedule your group tour or field trip.

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Discovering Palm Beach Elegance: A Walking Tour of Historic Mansions

Embark on a journey through the opulent history of Palm Beach with a captivating walking tour that unveils the grandeur of its iconic mansions. Home to renowned figures like the Kennedys, Trumps, and Rod Stewart, Palm Beach is a haven for architectural marvels that reflect the island's rich past. Join us as we explore the meticulously manicured streets and delve into the stories behind these magnificent residences.

The Legacy of Palm Beach:

Established in 1911, Palm Beach exudes an air of sophistication , maintained by the town government's commitment to preserving its unique charm. Despite occasional dramatics reminiscent of a Danielle Steel novel behind closed doors, the exterior remains a testament to careful planning. Stringent rules govern everything from landscaped property percentages to standardized "For Sale" signs, creating an orderly facade for the world to admire.

Preserving History:

In 1979, the Landmark Preservation Commission was established, signifying a commitment to protect the island's historic homes. Today, approximately 280 properties proudly display a small bronze plaque, a subtle nod to their historical significance. While some owners choose to keep this symbol hidden, curious tourists may stumble upon these landmarks, adding an unexpected layer to their exploration.

Architectural Maestros:

At the heart of Palm Beach's architectural evolution stand four influential figures: Addison Mizner, Maurice Fatio, Marion Sims Wyeth, and John Volk. While Mizner takes the spotlight as the architect extraordinaire of the 1920s, each contributed to the distinctive Mediterranean-revival style that defines Palm Beach mansions. Picture stucco walls, Spanish red-tile roofs, Italianate towers, Moorish-Gothic carvings, and the unique use of coquina, a grayish limestone with fossil-like imprints of shells.

Embark on a two-wheeled adventure or a leisurely drive to explore the preserved estates clustered along Worth Avenue, South County Road, and South Ocean Boulevard. Marvel at the intricate details of Casa de Leoni, Villa des Cygnes, 17 Golfview Road, El Solano, and other architectural gems that showcase the genius of Mizner, Fatio, Wyeth, and Volk.

Practical Tips:

For the adventurous, a bike ride provides an intimate experience, with many hotels offering bicycles for guest use. Alternatively, opt for the Palm Beach Bicycle Trail Shop. Driving is also a convenient option, but be mindful of the one-lane Ocean Boulevard, the island's primary route to neighboring cities.

Expert Insights:

Delve into the gossip and history with Leslie Diver's "Island Living Tours," a favorite among in-the-know concierges. Diver, an expert on Palm Beach architecture , provides a unique blend of past and present tales, adding a layer of intrigue to your exploration.

Top 10 Must-Visit Mansions:

Casa de Leoni: 450 Worth Avenue (Addison Mizner)

Villa des Cygnes: 456 Worth Avenue (Addison Mizner and Marion Sims Wyeth)

17 Golfview Road (Marion Sims Wyeth)

220 and 252 El Bravo Way (John Volk)

126 South Ocean Boulevard (Marion Sims Wyeth)

El Solano: 720 South Ocean Boulevard (Addison Mizner)

Casa Nana: 780 South Ocean Boulevard (Addison Mizner)

920 and 930 South Ocean Boulevard (Maurice Fatio)

Mar-a-Lago: 1100 South Ocean Boulevard (Joseph Urban)

Il Palmetto: 1500 South Ocean Boulevard (Maurice Fatio)

Conclusion:

Immerse yourself in the allure of Palm Beach's architectural treasures, where history, elegance, and timeless beauty converge. Whether on foot, bike, or behind the wheel, this walking tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the island's rich legacy, inviting you to witness the grandeur of its historic mansions. Don't forget to visit John & Yoko's mansion!

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⛴️ Take a boat tour around the celebrity homes

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View photos, tour duration: 90 minutes, departure point, what's included:.

• 90-minute cruise (a $31 value!)
• Narrated tour about the city and celebrity homes

The places you'll see

• Biscayne Bay
• Star Island
• South Beach
• Millionaire's Row
• Celebrity Homes
• Flagler Monument
• Fisher Island
• Jungle Island
• Financial District
• Miami Skyline

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• We've already taken a group much like yours . (We've been doing boat tours in Miami for over 10 years.) The cruise is relaxing and offers great views of the city. So if you'd like to get out on the water —and come boating with us— check availability now . If you prefer to buy tickets by phone, call us at 305-260-6855. After booking, you'll immediately receive an email with your tickets and directions.
• Still have questions? Want to customize a private charter? We appreciate how hard it can be to take a tour with a company you just met, so here is how we made it easy: you contact us letting us know what you need. You don't need to provide anything if you just have some questions.

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Historic House Tour

Tours are available Thursday through Sunday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

• There is no fee for tours. Donations are welcome.
• Guided Tours are not conducted on Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Have you ever wondered what it might have been like to have lived in rural Florida in the 1930s, when there was no air conditioning, no TV and no internet? Well, wonder no more! A great example of early 20th-century farm life waits you at Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park .

A tour of the idyllic farmhouse where famous author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings lived and wrote her eight books and numerous short stories about local Florida culture is like taking a step back in time.

The tour begins at the barn - a replica of Marjorie’s original - where a seasoned tour guide welcomes you and provides background stories and information to get your journey back in time started. Follow your guide for a short walk through the orange grove to the front door and porch of the farmhouse. Marjorie did most of her writing on the porch, sitting at the small table made from cypress boards and cabbage palm trunks, and taking breaks on her daybed during the long summer days.

Stepping into the living room, you’ve entered the original cracker home built in 1884. You will feel as if at any moment Marjorie might come in from another room to greet you, the way she greeted many guests over her two decades at her Cross Creek home.

Walk through a breezeway to the bedroom wing, originally a two-room tenant house, brought in and added on to the farmhouse in 1925. Many distinguished guests slept in the tiny bed you see here. Walk through the dining room and kitchen wing added at the turn of the century and hear stories about Marjorie's famous heavy Southern cooking.

Each room has its own charm, original furnishings and a unique story to tell. By the end of the tour, you will walk away a little more knowledgeable about life in 1930s Florida and the fascinating woman who wrote such classics as "The Yearling," and with the certain feeling that Marjorie herself was your guide.

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Tour 9 Palm Beach Houses That Will Immediately Make You Crave a Sunny Vacation

Who wouldn’t want their pick of these Palm Beach houses? Known for its beaches, golf courses, upscale dining, and shopping, the appeal of the South Florida destination has only grown in recent years, as its art scene has evolved and brought in more visitors. Below we highlight nine of our favorite Palm Beach houses featured by AD, from selections that embrace the area’s classic proto–Coastal Grandma style to more neutral, modern takes. 

A Yacht-Like Waterfront Home

The mirrored glass sculpture by Rob Wynne, Sunshine Through Clouds , and lithographs by Roy Lichtenstein can’t help but turn heads. A living room sofa by Vladimir Kagan was upholstered in blue velvet from Clarence House . The seagrass rug in navy is by Christian Liaigre, and the Hudson Street lounge chair is a Ralph Lauren design upholstered in Golden West Blue leather by Holland & Sherry. A custom cane table by Bielecky Brothers pairs nicely with throw pillows covered in fabrics by Scalamandré and Lee Jofa.

Somewhere on the Floridian coast, one sophisticated Palm Beach residence possesses a particularly compelling mise-en-scène: A 6,000-square-foot waterfront location, paired with a façade that recalls an uber chic super yacht on terra firma. The international-style pied-à-terre—conceptualized and brought to life by architect and interior designer Gerard Beekman of Gramatan Architecture and Design and Livingston Builders —serves as a much-needed winter reprieve for a Chicago-based couple and their twin daughters, who jaunt down on weekends from New York City. “The house is an homage to the wife’s globetrotting grandparents who had planned to build a glamorous home in San Francisco before the outbreak of World War II thwarted their plans,” Beekman says. “In a sentimental nod to their travel on the famed SS Normandie ocean liner, the house is low-slung on the water. The interior feels like the lounges and state rooms of a super yacht.” In short, this is not your typical Palm Beach residence. — Katie Kiefner

Italian-Inspired Allover Color

“I’m a lucky woman,” William says with a smile. “My husband is a professional chef and serves me breakfast in bed. He loves the kitchen, particularly the Gio Ponti tiles along the wall. We were very much inspired by Ponti’s legendary Villa Planchart in Venezuela when conceiving this space.”

Kelly Williams does not back down from a challenge; it’s a mentality she’s maintained since childhood. “My father started as a police officer then worked for IBM, while my mother was our town clerk,” recalls Williams. “Both were very smart people who didn’t go to college.” But Williams did go, becoming the first in her family to do so. “I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a lawyer,” she adds. “I wrote my first contract for a new lunchbox when I was eight years old, and made my mom sign it. She was my first client.” Ever the ambitious soul, Williams moved from law to investment management, eventually working for Credit Suisse. By the time she stepped down from her position in 2019, Williams had grown her group’s business to $30 billion in assets. For most, that would’ve been enough to slow down. But Williams is not like most. “I finally had some time to pursue my passion in the arts,” she recalls.

What began as an invitation to join the board at Smithsonian American Art Museum rolled into Williams’s position as the chair of board at the Nantucket Historical Association as well as an invitation to join the board of the New York School of Interior Design. “All of this broadened my network in meeting so many smart and talented people in the design world.” And it helped when, in 2019, Williams and her husband decided to renovate their primary home in Palm Beach, Florida. — Nick Mafi

Striking a Neutral Note

Soft curves from the furnishings in the living room contrast the more geometric moments seen in the lighting, rug pattern, and console. Kaiman sofa from Workshop Collection by Workshop/APD, Wingback Chair Model 91 by Svend Skipper from Chairish,  Menu Knitting Chair from Design Public Group, and  Flutter II by Paul Matter lamp from Fine Art Design.

There is no such thing as nothing. The area between stars is filled with dust and gas, the gaps between atoms filled with electromagnetic fields, and, even in a true vacuum, gravity remains. It’s easy to forget, but Andrew Kotchen remembers. “In our practice, we often talk about the space between space,” he says. “The space between architecture and interior design, the space between materials, the space between the elements.”

Nowhere is this more apparent than in his own recently completed Palm Beach vacation home. “This apartment has that everywhere,” adds the founding principal of New York–based architectural firm  Workshop/APD. “It’s in the way everything comes together, from the most micro thing to the larger macro thing.”

The 1,500-square-foot unit, which serves as a city reprieve for Kotchen, his wife, and two children, sits within a historic modernist building along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. When he purchased it in 2020, it represented everything he’d been looking for in a second home: on the beach, inside an architecturally unique property, and, more than anything, a total wreck. “That’s what I wanted, something that needed work,” he says. — Katherine McLaughlin

A Socialite’s Palatial Property

A new pool by landscape architects Keith Williams and Nievera Williams abuts a courtyard where Merriweather Post hosted her many parties. Wyeth supposedly designed the back of the house to be U-shaped so that every single room on the first floor, from the kitchen to the trellis room, had floor-to-ceiling French doors that allowed for seamless movement from the inside to the grounds.

The sun-kissed barrier island of Palm Beach, known for its glitz and glamour, is dotted with some of the East Coast’s most stately homes. Few, however, capture the imagination quite like one grand Mediterranean Revival–style estate, commissioned in the early 1920s by cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. Rarely do such storied landmarks come to market. For one preservationist-minded client, it was a project that, without a doubt, was worth pursuing. “She couldn’t stop dreaming about it,” says designer Mary McGee , who is based in Boston and Palm Beach. “My client has an incredible eye for historic properties and has a real passion for saving and restoring them.”

The sprawling estate—replete with lush gardens, fountains, and a three-story Spanish bell tower—was designed by famed Palm Beach society architect  Marion Sims Wyeth , whose work includes such opulent manses as Post’s second home, Mar-a-Lago, and utilities magnate Clarence H. Geist’s Spanish villa, Claridad. Post, ever the socialite, conceived the house for entertaining, with floor-to-ceiling French doors in every room and spilling out into the courtyards and gardens. Together with her second husband Edward F. Hutton, Post became famous for hosting lavish parties with Hollywood starlets often in attendance. “The back of the house is shaped like a U, which Marion Sims Wyeth [supposedly] did on purpose because Marjorie Merriweather Post entertained so much that she wanted to be able to open up all her doors on the first floor to this really big, beautiful outdoor terrace so people could flow from the inside out,” McGee explains. — Nicole Anderson

One Home That Is Pretty in Pink

A look at the home and its inviting pool.

When LinQing Yang—called LQ by her friends—first moved to the U.S. from the Chinese port city of Xiamen in 2009, it was to Ohio, where she lived in an extremely modern dwelling in which she was never quite at ease. For her next chapter in Florida, she was determined to move to an abode that perfectly captured her quirky personality and eclectic tastes. Today, that residence is a sunny and art-filled Palm Beach manse, which was designed by Caroline Rafferty Interiors . ( MHK Architecture & Planning and Nievera Williams created the wild and magical garden.)

By the time Yang met her beau, a Palm Beach denizen, she had already grown enamored with the city, and snagged two pieces of memorable furniture—an orange table and mirrored chest—from one of its antique shops. “I felt welcome in Palm Beach,” Yang recalls.

After darting between a series of rentals in the area, Yang was taken by a 1920s residence crafted by the late prolific architect Addison Mizner . The structure was originally built on an oceanfront site and transported to a smaller lot, all before a 4,000-square-foot basement—ideal for accommodating Yang’s furniture-collecting habit—was added by the previous owner. “The first time I walked in, my thought was, ‘Wow, I’m going to throw a lot of parties,’” Yang remembers. — Alia Akkam

Tommy and Dee Hilfiger’s Manse

The living room features Martyn Lawrence Bullard for The Shade Store curtains. Sofa and slipper chairs (in Kravet textiles) and cocktail table all by Martyn Lawrence Bullard Atelier; ottoman from Mecox ; rug by Stark .

A white plaster chandelier from Circa Lighting hangs above a custom white oak dining table by Martyn Lawrence Bullard Atelier and vintage Frances Elkins dining chairs, covered in Westbury Textiles fabric. The vase—an antique Chinese water urn—and 1970s vintage bamboo mirror are from Mecox .

Tommy and Dee Hilfiger are no strangers to waterfront living. For years the designer couple took respite at a Golden Beach, Florida, home with 100 feet of ocean frontage, and they continue to retreat to a vacation home on Mustique, where the estate’s swimming pool laps up against the sands of the Caribbean.

Still, when the duo decided to decamp from their residence in Greenwich, Connecticut ( AD, March 2017 ), and make a full-time move to Palm Beach, Florida, last year, they pondered a new kind of frontier. “We fell in love with this home and the fact that it was on the lake and on the lake trail,” says Dee, referencing the west side of Palm Beach overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, Lake Worth Lagoon.

“We definitely wanted to experience something different.” Adds Tommy, “We always liked being on the water, but this was a pleasant surprise because it’s not quite as windy, and it’s beautiful to look at morning, noon, and night.”

“We’re still figuring out what we like and don’t like,” explains Dee, who mentions that while they have made this residence their home, the family can also contemplate potentially living at two other nearby houses they also happen to own. “We had never lived in Palm Beach, so this is a fun transition.” — Ariel Foxman

A House by AD100 Designer Frank de Biasi

Bougainvillea frames the loggia; vintage Salterini chaise longues with cushions of Fig Leaf fabric by Peter Dunham Textiles; landscape design by SMI Landscape Architecture.

Certain cities are known for iconic architects, talents whose houses and apartments set knowledgeable hearts aflutter. In the historic Florida resort community of Palm Beach, one of those visionary builders was John L. Volk, an Austrian émigré who arrived on the gilded island in the 1920s and left a legacy of villas ranging in style from Mediterranean Revival to neo-Georgian. “My grandparents’ house was a Volk,” says Emilia Fanjul Pfeifler, a cofounder of the Drawing Room, an elegant pop-up space on New York City’s Upper East Side. “His work has such a distinctive look, especially the way he handled windows, which are a real giveaway if you’re familiar with him, and the staircases are always so pretty.” So when she and her financier husband, Brian Pfeifler, decided to make Palm Beach their permanent address after years of shuttling between Florida and New York, the couple went in search of that architectural ideal.

Designed in 1940 by Volk himself, the prize was a stuccoclad, tile-roofed British Colonial sited on the highest point in Palm Beach. Stylistic pedigree wasn’t the only aspect that garnered their admiration; the fact that the expansive house had been enjoyed by large families right from the start was an emotional draw. (L.A. Rams owner Daniel F. Reeves, who commissioned the house, was the father of six.) “I grew up in a world where family is super important, and when we bought the house, it had belonged for decades to a really nice family with five children,” says Fanjul Pfeifler, granddaughter of a Cuban sugar king who immigrated to Florida when Fidel Castro came to power in the late 1950s. “We have three kids that have friends over constantly, four dogs that run around everywhere, and a hamster. It’s a perfectly sized house for that kind of life.” Accommodating that domestic vitality is where AD100 interior designer Frank de Biasi, who masterminded two earlier residences for the clients, comes in. This time around, though, at their suggestion, he relocated to the island from his home in Morocco ( AD , April 2020) for six months to oversee every detail of the renovation. “I really got into the architecture, the design, and the local artisans I could work with to make the house special,” de Biasi explains. “It’s the coolest thing I could ever have done.” — Mitchell Owens

A Plein Air-Themed Estate

Peter Dunham textiles’ fig leaf linen brings the garden indoors. Marina Karella flower cocktail table; François-Xavier Lalanne bird side table.

Jacques Grange celebrates his 74th birthday next month, but take note: He’s no lion in winter. “There is no wrinkle in my work. I’m like a good wine,” laughs the silver-tressed French interior decorator, whose Instagram handle—to take the vintage metaphor one step further—happens to be @beaujolais1944. “The more it ages,” he continues, “the better it is.”

Case in point? A rambling, Depression-era stucco villa in Palm Beach that’s absolute olé!—barrel tiles, cinquefoil arched windows, wrought-iron balconies, coats of arms both carved and painted, and polychrome tiles that were sourced on trips to Seville and Barcelona. Architects John L. Volk and Gustav Maass conjured it up for two rich, young Chicago snowbirds, Florence and Harry Thomas, a restaurant heiress and a stockbroker. Volk was especially proud of what he called the three-story project’s “very livable interior, not like so many of the Spanish houses built in that era that have now been either torn down or altered.”

The near-century of decors that followed the house’s completion in 1930, though, tended to be stiffly thematic. This time around, Grange whipped up a light-handed, dégagé makeover that complements Volk and Maass’s mint-condition floor plan for La Loma (Spanish for “the hill” because it crowns an artificial mound), a.k.a. Casa Tía Flora (the name used by the Thomases). And in some cases he amplified and improved on it while respecting, without hesitation, its Hispano-Moorish architecture. “The balance between the two spirits is happy and comfortable, not traditional, and very reflective of the owner’s taste,” Grange says, adding, after a moment’s thought, “No, not taste, because he doesn’t have taste—he has style.” — Mitchell Owens

Aerin Lauder’s Beach Paradise

The 1930 house was designed by architect Howard Major in the Louis XVI style. The outdoor furniture once belonged to Lauder’s grandmother Estée Lauder.

Two separate interviews, two different days, a single word repeated: magical. That’s the term that Aerin Lauder, the designer, uses to describe her new getaway in Palm Beach , which she just moved into a couple of months ago. It’s also the word that the AD100 interior designer Stephen Sills , a longtime friend who handled the decors in collaboration with Lauder, uses to describe the project in general. “It’s an intelligent house,” he explains. “A pretty house with a beautiful layout, a romantic history, and lovely gardens, like an enchanting French pavilion.”

Lauder , whose parents live across the street—“close, but not too close,” she jokes—had been captivated by the place since she was a child, ultimately dreaming of the life that she and her husband, financier Eric Zinterhofer, could create there. Until then, though, the couple raised their two sons, Will and Jack, in Manhattan, spending time, among other residences, at her family’s Palm Beach mansion, which had belonged to her cosmetics-queen grandmother Estée Lauder.

But a couple of years ago, Lauder’s dream house, designed in 1930 by architect Howard Major in the Louis XVI style and faced with picturesquely pitted Cuban limestone, came on the market, and she snapped it up. “I’ve never had my own home in Palm Beach,” she says. — Mitchell Owens

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

10 Magical Castles in Florida

September 5, 2020 //  by  Florida Trippers

Did you know that there are actual castles in Florida? While castles are commonly associated with fairy tales and dragons, they are pretty common in Europe. But in Florida? You might be pleasantly surprised!

Florida is home to many castles, including chateaus, mansions, and palaces! Castles in Florida blend history, architecture, and nature together almost seamlessly. The grandeur of these historic sites is overwhelming.

Because these castles rival their European counterparts, they are popular tourist attractions. They make great subjects for any photography portfolio. These castles are even popular wedding destinations for Florida couples.

Thankfully, you don’t have to book a flight across the Atlantic to step back in time and experience these magnificent feats of architecture! When you’re making your bucket list of Florida attractions , make sure to add these castles to your road trip itinerary .

Solomon’s Castle

Tucked away in the Florida woods lies one man’s dream turned reality. Built by Howard Solomon entirely out of aluminum, Solomon’s Castle is a testament to determination and artistry!

Just to the east of Sarasota , Solomon’s Castle functions as the home, gallery, and workshop of its creator and builder. Howard Solomon, an internationally renowned artist, sculptor, and painter, has opened up his home to tour his aluminum castle!

Make sure to have lunch at the Boat in the Moat Restaurant. You guessed it, the restaurant is actually in a boat… on a moat! Of course, this born and built from Solomon’s imagination. The medieval themed menu includes salads, sandwiches, and hot plates.

Tours of Solomon’s Castle are available from Tuesday through Saturdays. The Castle is closed to the public every Monday, as well as the entire months of August and September. Tickets start at $18 with discounts available for seniors, children, and students.

Coral Castle

To this day, Coral Castle in Florida’s origins is a mystery. We know that from 1923-1951, Edward Leedskalnin carved 1,000 tons of coral rock. We know that he designed an elaborate rock garden. What we don’t know is how he did it by himself.

A true eccentric, Leedskalnin attributed this feat because he “knew the secrets used to build the pyramids.” Some have said he had supernatural powers. Perhaps we’ll never know how he did this single-handedly. But the Castle’s legacy endures today.

Built as an everlasting monument to his lover that canceled their wedding the day before the ceremony, there’s something quite romantic about the gardens. Bougainvillaea trees shade the gigantic rock walls.

Among the garden’s features are a 9-ton gate that opens with the touch of a finger, a Polaris telescope, and functional rocking chairs. All of them, made completely of coral stone.

When you walk through the castle, you’ll be in awe of the structure. While scientists debate how Leedskalnin built this castle, it stands as a testament to the power of love. The next time you’re in Miami, Coral Castle is a must on your way to Key West .

Whitehall Mansion

In Palm Beach, you’ll find a castle the New York Herald described as “more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world.”

This hidden gem was the private residence of Henry Flagler, Florida’s original railroad magnate. This 75-room Gilded Age mansion features neoclassical Beaux-Arts architecture. At the center, you’ll find an open-air courtyard, modeled after other palaces in Spain and Italy.

Inside, you’ll find marble floors, walls, and columns. There are murals on the ceiling and heavy gilding everywhere. All of the details are custom and are as ornate as they are breathtaking.

Tour the Whitehall Mansion today! It is open for tours Monday through Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Admission starts at $18 with discounts for children.

Castle Otttis

In St. Augustine, you can find historic Castle Otttis (yes, with three t’s). Built by Ottis Sadler and Rusty Ickles in 1988, it took three years to complete. This castle was “done in remembrance of Jesus Christ.”

As you approach the castle, notice the turrets rising above the trees. Because it was based on the designs of Irish castles from the last century, it was intended to be a landscape sculpture. It stands open to the elements with its rock walls standing over 50 feet tall.

The interior was designed with the help of Catholic historians to evoke the atmosphere of an Abbey, or an old Irish church. Walking into Castle Otttis is a deeply religious experience, meant to be treated with respect. As a result, you will find many scheduled religious services here.

While Castle Otttis is open for tours, they are only available by appointment only. Be prepared to be flexible, the owners rarely open the Castle to the public, and when they do, it is only for a short amount of time.

Loews Don Cesar Hotel

One of the best places to visit in St. Petersburg , a trip to the Don Cesar will take you back in time to the roaring 20s. Constructed in 1924, it was envisioned to be a “pink castle.” In fact, before it was renamed the Don Cesar, it was called the “Pink Lady.”

Designed with a mix of different styles, the Don Cesar blends Mediterranean and Moorish styles. Consequently, you’ll see this in the arched openings, red clay tile roofing, balconies, and tower-like upper stories.

In the past, the “Pink Lady” was the romping grounds of famous figures like F. Scott Fitzgerald, Al Capone, and FDR. Today, it has been renovated into a fully functional hotel, complete with restaurants and a full-service beach club and spa.

Because Don Cesar is so iconic, it has been featured in many movies, music videos, and even its restaurant was featured on Food Network. It is said the hotel today is haunted by its former guests. Naturally, you can take a ghost tour of the grounds.

Castillo de San Marcos

On the western shore of Mantanzas Bay in St. Augustine lies Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. A monument of stone and mortar, this castle stands today as a testament to human determination and endurance.

Originally a fortress for the Spanish, Castillo de San Marcos was built completely using coquina, the only rock the Spanish could buy at the time. Luckily, coquina is formed from congealing of sea shells, and it remains a very solid rock. This was a solid fortress for the Spanish at war.

Right next to two Florida State Parks , visitors can take a self-guided tour using an app on their phones! Of course, there are rangers and volunteers in period dress to pose for pictures and answer questions.

Guided tours are available as well. You can catch a historic weapons demonstration every hour, weather permitting. If you check the castle’s app, you can see the next time the International Space Station will pass overhead!

Villa Zorayada

Take a step back in time to the Victorian Era when you visit Villa Zorayada in downtown St. Augustine. Built in 1883 by eccentric millionaire Franklin W. Smith, this palace served as his home.

Once a restaurant and club, Villa Zorayada then became a gambling casino during Prohibition. After it shut down, the city declared it a national landmark to preserve its culture, open to tour today!

The interior features replicas of the walls of the Alhambra palace. Among the fine detailing, you’ll see hand-painted wood tiles, intricate fireplaces, and mosaics made of stained glass.

Among the many pieces of art displayed is the Sacred Cat Rug. Infamous and highly discussed by visitors, it is over 2,400 years old and made of the hair of ancient cats that roamed the Nile River.

It was Smith’s intention to bring part of Spain to St. Augustine, and he succeeded. Today it educates visitors about different world cultures from Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Castle Warden

Built originally in 1887, Castle Warden was a winter home for William Warden and his family. Then in the 1940s, it was transformed into a hotel. By the 1950s, Robert Ripley acquired the castle to transform it into the world’s first odditorium, housing his collection of oddities.

If that name seems familiar, it’s because Castle Warden was home to the first of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museums! You can still visit the museum today to see Ripley’s first collection.

The unique architecture, thankfully, has been preserved today. With Moorish influences, the intricate details are pristine and make an interesting backdrop for the collection. The thousand of oddities include an Egyptian mummified cat and the world’s largest moving erector set!

Warden Castle is a focal point for ghost hunters. One of the most haunted places in St. Augustine , you can ride a “ghost train” that starts out in the castle and moves through the city. You’ll see the most haunted places in the nation’s oldest city.

Cinderella’s Castle

Would it really be a list of Castles in Florida if we didn’t include the most iconic one? You’ve seen it in the vanity logo that plays before every movie. If you’re a Florida native, you might even have visited it before.

Of course, we’re talking about Cinderella’s Castle. This is the perfect place to start your day at Magic Kingdom . The iconic symbol of the park, observe all the major fireworks shows from here!

You can’t miss the 189-foot monument to magic with its lofty spires and ornate turrets. Surrounded by a tranquil moat, this is the perfect place to pose for a picture on your Disney vacation .

First, once you head inside, you’ll see mosaic stained glass windows that chronicle Cinderella’s rags-to-riches story. Then visit the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Your Fairy Godmother will transform you into a prince or princess!

After you’ve finished your adventure in the park, sit down for a meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Meet Cinderella at an elegant meal with all your other favorite Disney princesses.

Hogwarts Castle

While the Hogwarts Castle at Islands of Adventure may not be a true castle, we believe Dumbledore said it best. “Of course it is happening inside your head, but why on Earth should that mean that it is not real?”

The magic of the Hogwarts Castle can be seen as you approach it while passing through Hogsmeade Village. The lofty blue spires soar into the sky. It really looks as though it’s sitting on top of a small mountain. It’s one of the best places to visit during Christmas , with faux snow on the rooftops.

The interior of the castle houses the Forbidden Journey ride attraction. As you pass through the castle, you’ll see many Harry Potter relics. The Triwizard Cup, Dumbledore’s pensive, and the Sorting Hat. You’ll even pass by the living paintings as they talk to you.

Perhaps the most magical of all the castles, thanks to its franchise, the Hogwarts Castle is breathtaking to any Harry Potter fan when they first see it. Even if you’re not a fan, the attention to detail is still striking. And hey, the ride itself inside is still very exciting.

Did You Find This Post Helpful?

If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

The Breathtaking Curtiss Mansion In Florida You Must Visit This Year

Marisa Roman

A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.

More by this Author

All throughout the great state of Florida, there are pockets of history just waiting to be discovered. In Miami Springs, this comes in the form of Curtiss Mansion. This historic mansion has become the ultimate wedding venue and touring locale thanks to a beautiful restoration that has reignited the beauty this architectural gem holds. Come see for yourself why this mansion deserves to be toured and why it’s such a special place for The Sunshine State.

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What do you think about Curtiss Mansion? Were you aware of the history this beautiful mansion in Florida held? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or, if you want to see more stunning photos of the property, make sure to check out the Curtiss Mansion website or Curtiss Mansion Facebook Page .

Looking for another beautiful mansion in Florida? You can tour the popular Stetson Mansion for a Christmas adventure .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Versace Mansion: An In-Depth Tour of Gianni Versace House in Miami

Gianni 's house photos.

Updated on April 20, 2021

Unless you’ve been living under a rock your entire life, you’ve at some point heard the name of fashion designer Gianni Versace or Versace Mansion, or seen a star or two strolling down the red carpet flashing one of his brand’s exceptionally crafted Versace dresses that probably cost more than your car. Yeah, we’re talking about THAT Versace, as in one of the biggest fashion empires in the world with a massive collection that includes everything from apparel and accessories to fragrances, cosmetics, and even home furnishings.

It’s incredible to think this guy went from working as an apprentice at his mother’s sewing business to founding one of the largest and most famous fashion houses in the globe. Even after his death in 1997, Gianni Versace’s name, as well as his brand, continue to live on. Much like his designs, Gianni Versace’s former mansion in Miami is every bit the spectacle of pure decadence that you’d expect from the fashion giant. Join us as we take an inside look at Gianni Versace’s life, his career, and his lavished mansion.

Gianni Versace Mansion Miami

Gianni Versace’s mansion in the sunshine state stands out as a prime example of what a fashion designer’s home should be. Built in 1930 as an apartment complex by Standard Oil heir Alden Freeman, the Spanish Colonial-style structure originally featured 24 apartments that Alden used to facilitate friends and other visitors. In 1937, following Freeman’s death from illness, the property was purchased for $100,000 by Jacques Amsterdam and renamed Amsterdam Apartments.

It would continue to change hands and exist as apartments until 1992, when Gianni, enamored with Miami at the time, noticed the bronze statue of Greek goddess Aphrodite that decorated the front entrance of the property (a statue that was commissioned by Freeman and had resided on the property since he had ownership) and decided he had to purchase it. Versace nabbed the complex for a meager $2.95 million along with the Revere Hotel next door for $3.7 million.

After throwing down a staggering $32 million on renovations and expansions which included actually knocking down the neighboring hotel to make way for a garden, pool, and south wing, Gianni Versace’s 23,000 square foot Miami palace was finally beginning to take shape. The 24 units in the building were converted into 10 spacious suites; additionally, the finished home featured a library, a bar, 10 bathrooms, 3 living rooms, 2 kitchens, and a swimming pool with 24-karat gold mosaic tiles.

Versace home also featured some of the most exotic, beautiful artwork and furnishings available at the time – all commissioned (and some even designed) by Gianni himself. The exterior of the property, protected by a black wrought-iron gate trimmed in gold, was home to a lush, tropical garden with a large medusa head mosaic built at the very center. On the third story of the home, Versace even installed a rooftop observatory painted navy blue with gold stars.

Some massively famous names once wined and dined with Versace at this home – including friends Princess Diana, Elton John, and Madonna. In fact, close friends of Gianni were assigned their own specific rooms when they decided to stay the night.

All suites were outfitted with only the finest décor, but it was Gianni’s master suite that really stole the show – which not only had a private balcony overlooking the front of the property but also a lavished drawing room attached to his bedroom – all of which was decorated with vibrantly colored fabrics and extravagant artwork.

For his family, Gianni designed special rooms for his closest relatives that suited their taste – the “Azure Suite” was designed in light powder blue for his nephew Daniel, the “Signature Suite” was designed for his brother Santo, the “Aviary Suite” was for his niece Allegra, and finally the “Venus Suite” was created especially for his beloved sister Donatella.

Donatella Versace’s room, in particular, was the grandest of all the family suites, boasting a whopping 1,500 square feet and featuring the only double balcony that overlooked the garden. The ceiling featured a mosaic of white roses, painted in Milan by artist Fontana Decorazioni and imported to Miami specifically for her suite.

The Versace mansion where Gianni lived and was tragically murdered is located at 1116 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139. The building is part of the Art Deco historic district in South Beach.

Who owns the Versace mansion?

After Gianni’s death in 1997, the Casa Casuarina was left to the Versace family, who would go on to sell the home in 2000 for $19 million to Peter Loftin, a wealthy entrepreneur. Loftin transformed the property into a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant. After some financial troubles, however, Loftin was forced to go bankrupt, and the Casa Casuarina was sold at auction in 2013 to VM South Beach, LLC, for $41.5 million, a number that many were disappointed with since the original asking price for the mansion was set at $125 million.

Donatella Versace House

Much like her brother, Donatella Versace has quite the eye for real estate – in August 2019 she purchased an incredible historic Italian lakefront villa for $5.6 million. The 50-room vacation home is located in Northern Italy and was previously owned by Italian publisher, Arnoldo Mondadori, who purchased the breathtaking property in the 1920s. Many famous figures have spent time at the villa, including Ernest Hemingway, Thomas Mann, Walt Disney, and George Simenon.

It’s believed one of the reasons that Donatella decided to purchase the home, in addition to it being gorgeous, was the fact that it is located not far from her late brother’s villa on Lake Como. Donatella’s estate features over 15,000 square feet of living space as well as a stunning view of Lake Maggiore. The home has four floors and boasts 20 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, a study & library, and a massive fireplace that holds the signatures of all the estate’s guests, including Hemingway and Disney.

Donatella Versace Home Milan

Once the home of her brother Gianni, Donatella’s home in Milan is extraordinary. Little is known about the size and value, but she gave Vogue an exclusive tour during her episode of their hit series 73 Questions . Check it out below.

Versace Hotel Miami

In its present incarnation, what was once Gianni Versace’s dream mansion is now open for all to enjoy as a luxury hotel!

Villa Casa Casuarina

Like anything Versace, you’re gonna have to be prepared to dish out some serious cash to stay at this perfect slice of opulence – since it appears booking a room at Villa Casa Casuarina can cost you anywhere between $750 to $1100 a night (depending on the room you stay in). But when you consider that you’ll be staying in a place that has played host to both Hollywood royalty as well as actual royalty, the price of a room at the villa makes sense.

The hotel offers guests the chance to stay in any one of the luxury suites in the mansion, including Gianni’s suite. So, if you’ve always wanted to see how this fashion icon lived, you can book a stay at his former home and experience the extreme lavishness that is Villa Casa Casuarina for yourself.

Versace Mansion Dinner

Another popular hotspot at the Villa Casa Casuarina hotel is Gianni’s, a restaurant that offers a night of fine wining and even finer dining! This is an absolute must for anyone staying at the hotel – seriously they say the food there is amazing!

Casa Casuarina Restaurant

Gianni’s offers guests a delicious selection of Italian Mediterranean dishes and fine wines. Guests can choose to enjoy their meal in the decadent dining room or near Gianni Versace’s famous gold-tiled swimming pool. Whether you want to try the Tuna Tartar from the lunch menu, the prime filet mignon for dinner, or simply try out the truffle fries on the Bar Bites menu, you’re guaranteed a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience at Gianni’s (hungry after all this food talk? You’re not alone).

Versace Mansion Tour

Though the mansion used to provide guided tours in the mid-2000s, it appears that this is no longer an option as of 2019. If you want to explore the interior of Casa Versace Miami, there are two ways to do so – either you can reserve a table at Gianni’s or book a night at the hotel.

Gianni Versace Net Worth

Considering that Gianni was a 50% stakeholder in the company, which is now worth $1.7 billion, his net worth as of 2019 would have reached a staggering $800 million!

Some reports suggest he was worth $1.4 billion at the time of his death, but those predictions are unsubstantiated as far as we can tell. Who cares, though – he was rich by any measure!

100% of the Versace family shares were recently sold to the American fashion label, Michael Kors Limited, for $2 billion.

Gianni Versace Death

So, what happened to Versace? On July 15 th , 1997, at 50 years of age, Gianni Versace was shot twice on the steps of his Miami, FL home upon returning from his morning stroll down Ocean Drive. On most days, Gianni would have his assistant get his coffee and morning paper for him, but his decision to walk to the shop on his own that day would prove to be fatal.

The man who committed the murder was serial killer Andrew Cunanan, who was reportedly obsessed with Gianni Versace and frequently boasted that he was close friends with the fashion designer, although this was simply a delusion of grandeur, and he was known to claim he had met and befriended other celebrities in the past.

What is believed, according to the FBI, is that Cunanan and Versace had met in San Francisco in 1990, but details surrounding exactly what their relationship remained a mystery. A 2008 article published in Vanity Fair suggested that perhaps the two had met on several occasions during those times since both parties allegedly mingled in sex-for-hire circles throughout San Francisco and Miami, but the Versace family has always denied that Cunanan and Versace knew each other, or even met, for that matter.

Andrew Cunanan was unemployed and frequently worked his way into the lives of wealthy older men so that he could spend their money. He went on to murder 5 people within 3 months, Versace included, until finally shooting himself on a houseboat in Miami Beach. He committed suicide with the same .40-caliber gun he shot and killed Gianni with as well as his other victim, former boyfriend David Madson.

The days leading up to Versace’s murder are depicted in the second season of the FX series American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace .

Versace Death Photos

The photos of the crime scene where Gianni Versace was murdered are gruesome and tragic. In those old photos, dried blood can be seen along the steps leading up to the Versace Mansion, the scene grotesquely displayed in the morning sun and framed with police tape as homicide detectives analyzed the site of the murder.

On the days following Gianni’s assassination, numerous people visited the scene on Ocean Drive to leave flowers and pay their respects to the late fashion designer Gianni Versace.

What happened to Versace after his death?

Gianni Versace’s remains were cremated and returned to the Versace estate near Cernobbio, Italy. The ashes were buried in the family’s vault located at Moltrasio cemetery, not far from Lake Como. His funeral, which was held at Milan Cathedral, had over 2,000 attendees, including Sting, Giorgio Armani, Elton John, and Princess Diana.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianni_Versace

https://www.crfashionbook.com/fashion/a27274615/historical-look-versace-mansion/

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/travel-guide/g14749593/versace-mansion-hotel-miami-beach/

https://www.curbed.com/2012/10/9/10319802/real-estate-legacy-of-late-fashion-designer-gianni-versace

https://www.vogue.com/article/versace-mansion-american-crime-story-history?verso=true

https://www.businessinsider.com/gianni-versace-donatella-versace-family-life-story-2019-4

https://www.bustle.com/p/what-happened-to-gianni-versaces-mansion-after-his-death-the-american-crime-story-subjects-home-still-welcomes-a-list-guests-7912475

https://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/us/versace-mansion-a-south-beach-star-faces-auction.html

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g34439-d6731449-Reviews-The_Villa_Casa_Casuarina_At_The_Former_Versace_Mansion-Miami_Beach_Florida.html

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/real-estate/g28638178/donatella-versace-buys-italian-lake-house/

http://vmmiamibeach.com/

http://www.miamibeach411.com/news/versace-tours

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/style/fashion-trends/a14446251/versace-net-worth/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianni_Versace#Death_and_legacy

https://www.crimeonline.com/2018/02/20/gianni-versace-crime-scene-photos/

.css-16urd06{margin:0;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif;font-weight:400;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.5;} .css-1eo6nkc{color:rgb(0, 0, 238);font-size:24px;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;cursor:pointer;} Sarah Paschall

Sarah has written and edited for numerous media outlets in a variety of different niches – though entertainment is her all-time favorite topic to cover. When she is not hard at work researching and writing about Hollywood’s top talents for Velvet Ropes, Sarah enjoys working on her fiction novels, developing her blog, and gaming. You can follow Sarah on Twitter at: Twitter.com/tuspock91

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T-Pain performs in concert during the Mansion in Wiscansin Party Tour, at The Fillmore Miami Beach in Miami Beach, Florida on Thursday, July 3, 2024. (Photo by Michele Eve Sandberg/Contributor)

T-Pain (Faheem Rashad Najm) performs in concert during the Mansion in Wiscansin Party Tour, at The Fillmore Miami Beach in Miami Beach, Florida on Thursday, July 3, 2024. (Photo by Michele Eve Sandberg/Contributor)

The crowd during T-Pain's Mansion in Wiscansin Party Tour, at The Fillmore Miami Beach in Miami Beach, Florida on Thursday, July 3, 2024. (Photo by Michele Eve Sandberg/Contributor)

NandoSTL performs in concert during the Mansion in Wiscansin Party Tour, at The Fillmore Miami Beach in Miami Beach, Florida on Thursday, July 3, 2024. (Photo by Michele Eve Sandberg/Contributor)

Young Cash performs in concert during the Mansion in Wiscansin Party Tour, at The Fillmore Miami Beach in Miami Beach, Florida on Thursday, July 3, 2024. (Photo by Michele Eve Sandberg/Contributor)

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Houston Astros Star Jose Altuve Snags Sleek, Sky-High Condo Near Miami for $4.8M

Houston Astros All-Star second baseman José Altuve has purchased a posh South Florida condo for $4.8 million.

Set in Sunny Isles Beach in the Jade Signature building, Altuve’s three-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence on the 47th floor sits 21 miles north of Miami . The residence had been on the market for $4.95 million, so Altuve also scored a slight bargain.

At just under 3,000 square feet inside, the white-box home feels open and contemporary from every angle. A private elevator arrives to reveal 10-foot ceilings, two terraces, and interiors by acclaimed French firm Pierre-Yves Rochon . The floor plan features a spacious living area, dining space, and a kitchen with appliances by Gaggenau.

(Realtor.com)

The ocean-facing primary bedroom is generous, with room for a large lounge chair. A nearby bathroom has a soaking tub, two sinks, and a large shower. There’s also a large walk-in closet with plenty of built-ins and drawers.

The beachfront tower has loads of amenities for its lucky residents—there’s a bar and grill with pool and beach service, a fitness center with top-notch equipment and ocean views, plus a 25-meter lap pool.

Altuve has spent his entire career with the Astros and made his big league debut with the team in 2011. An eight-time All-Star, he’s led the team to World Series wins in 2017 and 2022. In February, he signed a five-year, $125 million contract extension that will keep him in Houston through 2029.

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Jennifer Kelly Geddes creates content for WhatToExpect.com, American Airlines Vacations, Oxo, Livestrong, and Parade.

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