Set on a prime stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway, this southern coastal-style estate offers unobstructed views of Birch State Park and a clever design.
At this Intracoastal Drive home, the backyard is the show. The long, open stretch of water lined with green from Birch State Park has the rare view that comes with a guarantee that nothing will ever be built across from it. And this house, designed by architect Bob Tuthill and built in 2021 by Jim LaValle, sits angled just enough to frame the Intracoastal like a movie reel, capturing boats, birds and breeze up and down the waterway.
But let’s back up. The 6,139-square-foot home is a study in balance: coastal without cliché, tech-savvy without showing off and open without losing warmth. The front walk opens to a courtyard that leads into the main living area where the show begins: floor-to-ceiling windows, a custom fireplace that changes colors, built-in shelving and, in what might be the most unexpected feature, a 900-gallon saltwater tank built right into the wall, separating the lounge from the living room. It’s stocked with live coral and fish, turning cocktail hour into something a little more cinematic.
In the dining area, which flows right into the kitchen, there’s more of that seamless zone transition. The kitchen island fits 10 and is wrapped in marble. It’s built for a crowd, as is the butler’s pantry tucked behind, which receives natural light from windows that wrap the space. Hidden outlets, smart cabinetry and a walk-in wine cooler complete the kitchen’s clean aesthetic.
A separate outdoor walkway leads to the guest quarters (aka in-laws suite), which has its own entrance for privacy, and includes a bedroom, bath, breakfast nook and pool views. Back outside, the covered patio features its own A/C system, a roll-down TV from the ceiling, a saltwater pool and a built-in hot tub, plus a fire pit, summer kitchen with a wet bar, fridge, ice maker and storage for the post-boat ride lounge. Speaking of boats, there’s a lift and dock included, naturally.
Inside, the finishes speak to restraint and function. Electrical outlets are discreetly positioned along the baseboards. Laundry machines? Hidden within cabinetry. A concealed garage door connects one of the two garages directly into the main home. The upstairs loft functions as a game and lounge area, complete with its own kitchenette and access to a second outdoor terrace. There’s even a second laundry room, because why not?
Each of the five bedrooms has its own personality. One features built-in shelving, a balcony and an ensuite. Another lets the light take center stage with its walls of windows. But the primary suite takes the win: two large walk-in closets, a fireplace, a private terrace and a bathroom designed for true spa-level relaxation (with a floating tub, walk-in shower, dual sinks and a wall of windows). And because function always rides alongside form here, the suite also includes a fitness room with an infrared sauna, steam room and yet another private balcony.
This is not just a house with bells and whistles. It’s a thoughtfully designed home where function matters, light is maximized and design never shouts. It simply flows, like the water it sits beside.
Bonus Photos (Unpublished):
