520 Valencia Rd., Venice, FL 34285

Nestled in Venice Island's architecturally rich Gulf-view neighborhood, a very large unique home surrounded by lush tropical gardens awaits you. Located two blocks from the beach but not in a flood zone, this home is in the heart of a desirable 1920s park-like neighborhood designed by city planner and landscape architects John Nolen and Prentiss French. This 26,250 square foot property is over half-acre, with two-plus lots. Once you step inside the beautiful hand-wrought-iron gates, you will discover a private, tropical paradise with walled-in courtyards, sparkling 45-by-20, heated PebbleTec surfaced pool, outdoor loggia with shower and walking paths through beautiful foliage. Inside the 5,145-square-foot home, you will find four bedrooms, two living rooms, a 15-foot stone fireplace, two dining rooms, a large custom kitchen with two built-in breakfast bars for entertaining and an office library with built-in bookshelves. The master bedroom has an en-suite marble bath with jet tub and separate shower, walk-in closet, and French doors that open to the pool and courtyards. The two-car garage has a large, well-lit workshop, built-in cabinets and room for your golf cart. The circle driveway access is surrounded by trees and tropical foliage. There is an additional wing that was originally an artists studio, which could be used as an in-law suite and fifth bedroom with private entrances. This wing is currently a huge game room with French doors opening to the pool and a large storage room. Of note: Originally a 1948 home designed by Paul Rudolph and Ralph Twitchell was located here, and its spirit can be found in the soaring central spaces inside this private garden paradise. You need to see this uniquely beautiful opportunity right away.