Although Orchid Island is known for its year-round active lifestyle, the Florida golf and beach club community is also home to winter residents desiring to enjoy sunny weather, pristine ocean-to-river views, and the company of warm and welcoming friends. Now, for some of our snowbirds, flying to this private oceanside paradise just got easier. Breeze Airways has officially begun a series of direct flights from Vero Beach Regional Airport to key cities in the northeast. Let’s take a closer look.
Seamless Connectivity to Vero Beach
Located just 12 miles from Orchid Island, Vero Beach Regional Airport’s new cooperation with Breeze Airways has expanded the airport’s reach, providing nonstop flights from Vero Beach to Hartford, Connecticut; Westchester, New York; and Norfolk, Virginia. With a commitment to providing air service excellence to the surrounding community, these new flight options create a simplified travel experience for Orchid Island Members away from the hustle and bustle of the larger international airports.
Nearby Vero Beach Diversions
While Orchid Island Members enjoy their slice of secluded oceanfront paradise, the Florida golf community is just a short drive away from numerous serene escapes. The 18-acre McKee Botanical Gardens is a wild place of natural beauty, home to more than 10,000 colorful native plants and exotic species as well as one of Florida’s largest collections of water lilies. The Vero Beach Museum of Art is the nation’s largest art museum created by private funds, featuring curated exhibits, film screenings, lectures, seminars, a film library, and art classes for every age. Just across the street, Riverside Theatre is a cherished destination for Orchid Island Members to see a show, with Tony-award winning performances, stand-up comedy, a children’s theater, and the local favorite “Howl at the Moon” dueling piano cabarets. Downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive are also filled with casual and fine dining, boutique shopping, and more for residents to explore.
A Private Beach & Golf Club Community on Florida’s Treasure Coast
Nestled on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River, Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club enjoys a beautiful natural setting that is second to none. Here, pristine natural environments and world-class amenities converge with a welcoming culture to create a renowned private golf and beach club lifestyle. The Arnold Palmer-designed golf course is the beloved centerpiece of the community and was the proud host of the 2018 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn within this par-72 course welcomes exciting views of natural seaside landscapes teeming with wildlife. The West Indies-style Beach Club is a social place designed for both fitness and leisure, with a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, eight Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, multiple dining venues, and a full-service salon and spa.
A Premier Collection of Golf, Riverfront, and Oceanfront Homes
Each of Orchid Island’s 375 homes surrounds Members in the best of Florida’s natural beauty. With many homes located directly on the water or overlooking Orchid Island’s championship golf course, each home features West Indies architectural designs, panoramic natural vistas, and the secluded privacy of living in a gated oceanfront golf community. Luxurious oceanfront condominiums and oceanfront estates are spacious and bright with open Atlantic Ocean views. A wide array of single-family riverfront estates offer open Indian River views and many feature private docks. Golf course homes and cottages are tucked away on private cul-de-sacs and winding streets to maintain open views of the lush fairways and sparkling lakes of its distinctive Arnold Palmer course.
With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To learn more about this picturesque, one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine or call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.
Contrary to the city’s quaint size, the charming seaside town of Vero Beach has received national recognition once again. A new article from Wall Street Journal’s lifestyle section highlights why travelers love visiting four small towns on Florida’s Treasure Coast- Vero Beach, Sebastian, Stuart, and Fort Pierce. Article writers Valerie Stivers and Hank Zona share, “On the Treasure Coast north of West Palm Beach, it’s not just shell art and shopping-for-oranges anymore. The diverse stretch is a local secret for boaters and those seeking a full-stop Old Florida vacation but also for a new wave of home buyers.”
Nicknamed “The Old Money,” the Wall Street Journal article shares how Vero Beach’s live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and high-end lifestyle have naturally drawn visitors for decades. The article then shares a local’s guide to some of the area’s best attractions, including beaches, the cultural scene, restaurants, and the best take-home souvenirs. Here’s your chance to read the article if you missed it.
Born in the Caribbean Islands, West Indies architecture perfectly blends contemporary and traditional styles to inspire indoor/outdoor living. From large wooden verandahs and cathedral ceilings to transitional exteriors, this coastal style is like a breath of fresh air. While West Indies architecture has been around since the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, its ability to capture ocean breezes has made it a popular choice for homes along Florida’s Atlantic coastline, especially at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this timeless architectural style so appealing.
What is West Indies Architecture?
West Indies architecture is known for its distinguished symmetry, with beautiful columns, louvers, doors, and windows configured in relation to a central axis. High ceilings with dark wood beam details are not only appealing, but encourage warmer air to rise, and cool breezes to flow through the interior. Large French doors and beautifully arched windows provide beautiful focal points that bring the outside in. West Indies architecture is also known for its inviting outdoor living areas, with clean lines and covered porches that maximize the ocean breeze.
As the interior designer for both of Orchid Island’s Clubhouses, Spectrum Design President and Founder Susan Smith has witnessed consistent demand for West Indies design throughout the coastal Florida region. “West Indies architecture and design styles have remained in constant demand for the last 20 to 25 years along Vero Beach. It captures the area’s natural beauty in the same way it did in the colonial days.”
West Indies Architecture Meets Sunlit Shores
Just off the sandy shores of the Atlantic coastline, Orchid Island’s private Beach Club was the first building within the community to feature the West Indies style. Large windows and open-air balconies overlook the swimming pool, private cabanas, and beach walkover. Entire walls open up to large verandas that offer views of the ocean, bringing in the sound of gently lapping waves and the feeling of refreshing coastal breezes. On the inside, interior design firm Spectrum Design created a warm, inviting space that has withstood the test of time and won numerous design awards. The use of batik fabrics creates colorful accents with multiple colors and patterns, adding a touch of East Asian flair to the design.
“The Beach Club’s West Indies design evokes the feeling of an exotic destination,” shared Smith. “It’s bringing that vacation resort – like you’ve traveled to the West Indies or the Far East – to your backyard. I haven’t seen any club that has been able to replicate that.”
Golf, River, and Oceanfront Homes Capture Soft Breezes
As one of the first Beach Clubs in the area, West Indies architecture became the personality that set the stage for Orchid Island’s distinctive collection of 30+ golf, ocean, and riverfront homes and 66 oceanfront condos. 375 properties each feature West Indies architectural design, with high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and beautiful outdoor living areas with panoramic natural vistas. Luxurious oceanfront condominiums and oceanfront estates are spacious and bright with open Atlantic Ocean views. A wide array of single-family riverfront estates offer unobstructed Indian River views, and many feature private docks. Golf course homes and cottages are tucked away on private cul-de-sacs and winding streets to maintain open views of the lush fairways and sparkling lakes of its distinctive Arnold Palmer course. Real-time current listings are featured on the community’s website, OrchidIslandFL.com.
Timeless Island Living Surrounded by Nature’s Beauty
Embraced by a breathtaking ocean-to-river environment and surrounded by architecturally distinct homes, Orchid Island Members enjoy endless opportunities to enjoy a tropical vacation in their own backyard. The world-class Arnold Palmer golf course is the beloved centerpiece of the community and was the proud host of the 2018 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn within this par-72 course welcomes exciting views of natural seaside landscapes teeming with wildlife. For the health focuses, a state-of-the-art fitness center, eight Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a spa ensure Members can look and feel their best. This charming seaside community, however, is filled with even more to discover outside the gates. Downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive are full of arts and culture, casual and fine dining, and boutique shopping waiting for residents to explore.
For those interested in learning more about this one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine. This intriguing publication tells the story of the Vero Beach area and how nature coexists with the residents. If you’re in the area, schedule a visit to the Orchid Island Realty office for a community and club tour. Call 772.388.3888 for more information or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.
With its exceptional coastal scenery and endless sunshine, it’s no wonder Florida is home to many of the world’s top private golf club communities. Yet, there’s only one Orchid Island, thanks to Arnold Palmer and its Audubon certified natural surroundings. Located on a barrier island near Vero Beach, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club Members celebrate the incredible environmental beauty of its ocean-to-river habitat, but also a unique and welcoming Club culture. See why this Vero Beach-area championship golf course has gained national acclaim.
Championship Golf Island Style
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon, Orchid Island’s 18-hole championship golf course surrounds players with a unique tropical landscape and enjoys continuous ocean breezes. Recognized as one of the best in Florida, legendary golfer Arnold Palmer designed the par-72 course under the simple principle that golf should be fun to play. Beginners cherish the course’s picturesque nature tour, where every turn brings breathtaking views of lush greens, swaying palms, and shimmering lakes bordered with flowing grasses and tropical fauna. Championship golfers, however, shouldn’t think this course will be a breeze. Nine tee combinations ranging from 4,231 to 7,216 yards create a flexible game with challenging layouts designed to test even the best player’s touch. In fact, Orchid Island’s golf course was chosen to host the 2018 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship.
A Certified Audubon Sanctuary
Golfers, however, aren’t the only ones who enjoy spending a day out on the fairways. Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is one of the few Florida barrier island courses recognized by Audubon International as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Its long history of supporting the environment and surrounding wildlife creates a bio-diverse ecosystem that adds to the special nature of the course. Daily sightings of otters at play, roseate spoonbills, graceful egrets, and white pelicans enjoying the waterscapes will capture any golfer’s attention.
Golf Training and Practice Facilities
Orchid Island provides unique practice facilities enabling Members to hone their skills in all areas of golf. These practice facilities were designed to mimic many characteristics that are found on the Arnold Palmer Championship Golf Course. They include a double-sided driving range allowing Members to practice at either end while providing additional tee space, two putting greens meticulously maintained that are consistent to those found on the golf course, an enhanced chipping and pitching area, as well as two practice bunkers. As the Director of Golf since 2019, David Champagne leads a team of qualified PGA Golf Professionals that offer a wide range of instructional programs developing skills for all levels of play, while enhancing the overall enjoyment of the game.
An Active Golf Club Event Schedule
The golf professionals also host a series of much-loved Member tournaments and events that make starting up new friendships or renewing old ones easygoing and fun. Serious competitors cherish hitting the links for the President’s Cup and Orchid Cup, while Twilight Nine & Dines, Adult & Child 9-Hole Scrambles, and more are casual events that beginners can enjoy as well. After an exciting round on the greens, the Golf Clubhouse’s casual dining venue is a natural “19th hole,” where a light fare of salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads are combined with picturesque views of the fairways. The Golf Clubhouse is also home to a Pro Shop that provides the finest in golf apparel and equipment to satisfy any shopping needs.
Oceanfront Beach Club Just a Golf Cart Ride Away
Orchid Island’s championship golf course is just the beginning of a premier collection of amenities just a short golf cart ride away. A West Indies-inspired Beach Club creates an easygoing setting where generations can gather together to enjoy a tropical seaside pool, rejuvenating spa, world-class dining, and endless special-interest clubs. For the health-focused, a state-of-the-art fitness center houses personal trainers and physical therapists ready to guide and motivate every personal fitness quest. Eight Har-Tru tennis courts and two pickleball courts celebrate social connections, muscle movements, and friendly competition for players at all skill levels.
A Collection of Ocean and Riverfront Homes
Orchid Island is home to a wide variety of premier ocean and riverfront homes in high demand. Homes are in high demand and sell quickly. Real-time current listings are featured on the community’s website, OrchidIslandFL.com. With many homes located directly on the water, the magnificent oceanfront estates feature West Indies architectural designs, panoramic natural vistas, and the secluded privacy of living in a gated oceanfront enclave. Luxurious oceanfront low-rise condominium residences are spacious, bright homes with square footage in the mid-3,000 range. A wide array of single-family riverfront estate homes is also available, offering open Indian River views and many with private docks.
With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To learn more about this picturesque, one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine or call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway along Florida’s Treasure Coast, few places in Florida enjoy a more beautiful setting than Orchid Island. Here, pristine natural environments converge with a unique and welcoming culture to make it the perfect private club choice. Here’s a look behind the gates of Orchid Island to see how this private golf & beach club community is embracing its natural surroundings to create an unforgettable lifestyle.
The Edge of the Tropics
Located just north of Vero Beach, Orchid Island’s dynamic location is graced with a unique mix of vegetation that adds to the special nature of the community. From coconut palms and stunning beaches to ancient oak hammocks and dense pine forests, the area’s environmental diversity gives it much of its natural appeal. Alongside these natural wonders, the community also provides sanctuary to hundreds of species of Florida’s migratory birds and animals, including manatees, river otters, armadillos, and herons. Pristine bodies of water, native wildlife, and year-round warm weather transform this area into a premier private club community.
West Indies Architecture Meets Sunlit Shores
Just a golf cart ride away, the serene Atlantic coastline invites Members to enjoy nearly a mile of white sand beaches. Whether strolling the beachfront, fishing, surfing, paddleboarding, or just spending time with family, the beach has a special appeal to every member of the family. Just off the sandy shores, the West Indies-inspired Beach Club creates an easygoing setting where numerous gathering places and ocean breezes nurture the spirit of neighbors becoming friends. Generations come together to enjoy a tropical seaside pool, a rejuvenating spa, a Member’s Lounge, and more. Multi-purpose rooms are also home to numerous special interest clubs, including clubs for the arts, Bridge, Mah Jongg, gardening, sporting, and more.
Tropical Menus That Celebrate Local Flavors
Orchid Island is also home to three dining venues that create a welcoming and coastally inspired ambiance. Bond over burgers and tropical libations while watching dolphins swim along the Atlantic coastline at the Pool Grille and Turtle Bar.
The Golf Club offers a casual fare of salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads in a variety of atmospheres, from the main dining room to an extended patio overlooking grand views of the fairways. Finally, the Beach Club’s elegant oceanfront dining venue is home to innovative five-star cuisines that are sure to please any palate.
Behind it all, Executive Chef Chris Sozio is leading the way in elevating the Club’s daily menus with his farm-to-table philosophy, ensuring fresh, flavor-filled dishes for Members and their guests.
Music Mixed with Waves
Among all the things to do at Orchid Island, the Turtle Bar is the place to be on Friday night. From 5-9 PM, the bar is filled with live entertainment from local musicians in a vibrant open-air setting. Members love to grab a refreshing cocktail and converse with friends while listening to the sounds of music combined with the gentle lapping of the ocean waves.
Championship Golf Island Style
As the beloved centerpiece of the community, Orchid Island is home to an 18-hole championship golf course designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. Surrounded by a seaside natural landscape teeming with wildlife, this course is one of Florida’s few barrier island courses. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn within this par-72 course welcomes a delightful surprise with natural neighbors including white pelicans, roseate spoonbills, and daily sightings of migratory birds and wildlife that capture any golfer’s attention.
Kayak Cove Launch Along The Estuary
For those who relish spending time outdoors or on the water, Orchid Island’s riverside kayak launch provides direct access to the saltwater estuaries of the Indian River Lagoon, the most biologically diverse waterway in North America. Members love to spend their days birdwatching, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and boating around the area’s salt and freshwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks. Manatees, pelicans, tricolored herons, snowy egrets, and more all congregate throughout the mangroves and provide a beautiful sightseeing adventure.
An Oceanfront Homestead Surrounded by Nature’s Beauty
For those interested in learning more about Orchid Island’s waterfront lifestyle, visiting OrchidIslandFL.com is an excellent way to get to know the community. Orchid Island is home to a wide variety of premier ocean and riverfront homes for sale, and current listings are featured on their website. With many homes located directly on the water, the magnificent oceanfront estates feature West Indies architectural designs, panoramic natural vistas, and the secluded privacy of living in a gated oceanfront enclave. Luxurious oceanfront low-rise condominium residences are spacious, bright homes with square footage in the mid-3,000 range. A wide array of single-family riverfront estate homes is also available, offering open Indian River views and many with private docks.
With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To learn more about this picturesque, one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine or call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.
As featured in the Private Communities Registry Lifestyle Blog.
There is no shortage of world-class tennis spots in Florida, and seeking out the best Florida tennis communities is often on the top of the list of amenities for active adults and retirees. Some are simply looking for the opportunity to partake in the occasional afternoon game with friends to stay fit, while other more seasoned tennis aficionados prefer more skilled tournaments and regular league play.
Wherever you fall on that spectrum, the communities detailed here have something for you—and feature some of the best tennis facilities in the Sunshine State. Whether you’re searching in the Panhandle, Gulf Coast, Treasure Coast, or elsewhere, these top Florida tennis communities are great for both the casual player and those looking to take their game to the next level.
Fiddler’s Creek – Naples, FL
This community features an immense tennis and pickleball complex with fully lit hydro-grid tennis courts and a USPTA staff. In addition, residents of this premier active adult community in Naples, FL, enjoy the 54,000-square-foot Club & Spa, fitness center, multi-pool swimming complex, and an extensive social calendar for the entire family. Golfers also have the option to join The Golf Club at Fiddler’s Creek®, home of the Arthur Hills-designed Creek Course, ranked among Golfweek’s 100 Best Residential Golf Courses in the United States since 2006.
Ave Marie – Ave Marie, FL
Ave Maria is an award-winning master-planned community that combines an active lifestyle with the charm and friendliness of a small town in the Gulf Coast region of southwestern Florida. Families and active adults thrive at Ave Maria with access to a resort-style water park, sports fields, and two golf courses. When it comes to tennis, the community features lighted tennis courts are available at The Club at Del Webb, as well as the South Park recreation area.
Oyster Bay Harbour – Fernandina Beach, FL
Just two miles off the Intracoastal Waterway, this Florida community with tennis boasts more than 900 tree-canopied acres and four miles of stunning marshfront. Resident share in a variety of social events, activities, and first-class amenities including the Bay House and pool, nature trails, marina with floating docks, and the only full-service residential Yacht Club in Fernandina Beach. Just across from the clubhouse and situated under moss-draped oak trees are two Har-Tru clay tennis courts.
The Club at Ibis – West Palm Beach, FL
One of the best tennis communities in Florida, The Club at Ibis boasts sixteen Har-Tru tennis courts with HydroGrid subsurface irrigation. Overseen by Director of Athletics and professional tennis pro, Jay Berger, the community holds weekly drill clinics, group play, round-robin socials, leagues, and drop-in games. In addition, the community features four pickleball courts, three Nicklaus family-designed golf courses, an 80,000 square-foot clubhouse, and proximity to beaches, boating, and fishing.
Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club – Vero Beach, FL
Despite the plethora of luxury amenities and premium real estate in this Southeast Florida community, you could argue that the most compelling attribute of Orchid Island is the welcoming and engaging atmosphere with a year-round schedule of tournaments, club activities, and social gatherings. The community tennis facilities play a large part in creating that atmosphere. With eight Har-Tru courts, including an exhibition court with observation terraces, and pickleball courts, Orchid Island’s Tennis & Fitness Center offers an impressive year-round tennis program that includes team play and competitions, instruction by highly trained tennis professionals, demonstrations, and a full-service tennis shop.
The Founders Club – Sarasota, FL
This established Southwest Florida country club community combines a member-owned Robert Trent Jones, Jr. golf course and other exclusive amenities with a limited selection of luxury homes and lots for sale. Just minutes from the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches and nearby marinas, residents enjoy an array of surrounding waterfront activities, and plenty of tennis time within the gates—with two Har-Tru tennis courts with professional instruction available.
Valenica Grove at Riverland – Port Lucie, FL
Tennis lovers have a lot to get excited about in this 55+ community located within the 4,000-acre Florida master-planned community. Anchoring the community’s sports and recreation offerings is the Riverland Sports & Racquet Club complete with14-acre complex that includes a fully equipped fitness center, dozens of tennis and pickleball courts, and pro shop. In addition, the 34,000-square-foot clubhouse is the social hub of the community where residents enjoy dining at the restaurant, live shows on the stage, watching games at the sports lounge, and more.
As featured in Indian River Magazine, written by Mary Ann Koenig.
A broad and elegant mansion in Orchid Island has a legacy in Vero Beach that stretches from Baltimore to Hollywood and extends to the NFL. The house was the creative brainchild of one of Vero’s most influential builders.
The Baltimore connection comes from one of the original owners, Art Modell, who owned the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. He and his wife, Patricia, formed a company with master builder and owner of McDonald Properties, Donald Ricci, and his wife, Nadja. Together, the couples purchased an oceanfront lot in Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club and built the home on spec, completing it in 2007.
Ricci’s stamp on the luxury building landscape of Vero Beach and Indian River Shores is profound. Through his decades of work along the Treasure Coast, he built some of Vero’s most prestigious communities, including Sea Colony, Sea Oaks Beach & Tennis Club and Carlton.
“My husband really started that high-end trend in condo building that is part of Vero history now,” Nadja Ricci says.
The house that the Riccis and the Modells created is a masterpiece of British West Indies architecture graced with a modernist touch.
The residence is accessed by dual stairs that arc together and form a single, wide staircase to enter this majestic, even regal home. The 11,604-square-foot house, laid out over three floors, is an oceanfront marvel and conveys no shortage of jaw-dropping appeal.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Private and Peaceful
At the end of the road in Orchid Island’s exclusive beachside community, the location offers privacy and peace, along with rich, elegant detailing. Mahogany double doors open onto a grand entry hall preceding a double height living room that offers ocean and sky and greenery as the vista.
The Modells had previously purchased a separate oceanfront lot in Orchid Island and hired Donald Ricci to build them a home. They were so pleased with Ricci’s design and the quality of the craftsmanship that they decided to form the partnership and build a spec home, equivalent in character, just down the road.
Rich mahogany wood throughout the home, offset by subtle tan and textured walls and 18-inch travertine tile flooring, gives it an abundant feel of true sophistication.
With six bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms and four half-baths, there’s more than enough space for a large family.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
The living room fireplace is a prominent feature, stretching the full height up to a 30-foot ceiling. Columns and arched windows fill the space, as does the presence of water, with the pool and the ocean just beyond.
The outdoor area includes a well-equipped kitchen, a cascading infinity-edge pool with a chic fountain and an integral spa and a large, sloping lawn beyond the pool.
Bordering dune vegetation lies between the house and the turquoise waters of the Atlantic.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Elevated and Fortified
The home is set back from the water and has an extended dune crossing that includes seating and is sheltered under an archway of sea grapes. Stairs lead to the beach, which has recently undergone sand replenishment and dune planting to reinforce the shoreline.
High-impact windows are in place throughout the home. With consideration to its direct oceanfront location, the home was fortified and raised by Ricci and his engineers. They elevated the property substantially from sea level, providing a prominent ocean view and a bolster against rough weather. Ricci designed a system of poured concrete and steel pillars which were sunk deeply into the ground to reinforce the foundation.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Ricci’s design and the construction of the home were exquisitely planned for high-end living. That strategy is reflected in the spacious kitchen intended for a caterer or professional chef to handle any entertaining assignment.
Along with two islands, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances and an intimate breakfast nook, there is a secluded door adjacent to the family room off the kitchen that leads to the pool area, but off to the side. Servers can come and go discreetly.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
And the butler’s pantry adjoining the kitchen is not only supplied with storage, bar sink and mini-fridge, among other features, but also offers a passage way to the formal dining room. Another nod to discretion and convenience for a catered dinner party.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
An additional impressive element is the balance between refinement and practicality. Listing agent Ansley Watkins notes that, “All the bedrooms have walk-in closets and private bathrooms.”
The home’s considerable menu of special features indicates the amount of thought and preparation that went into construction and design of the home. An elevator is accessible from the ground floor to the third level, with entry located directly from the garage and on the upper floor, directly outside the primary owner’s suite.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Everything is Handmade
On the main level, down a gallery hall to the opposite side of the house, a mahogany-walled library has a stately, deep coffered ceiling anchored by an octagonal centerpiece.
“We had an in-house carpenter who made all the panels, cut by hand,” Nadja Ricci says. “Nothing was ordered and brought in, everything in the house is handmade.” The quality of the build is evident throughout.
Across the hall is the game room with its own bar and mini kitchen, pool table and dramatic extra-large windows looking out to the ocean. French doors provide direct pool access.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Nadja Ricci was trusted with the interior design. She worked hand in hand with Patricia Modell and together they selected luxury fixtures to accentuate the elegance of the residence, collaborating on everything from finishes to chandeliers, to countertops, cabinetry and color scheme. The decorative elements bring in the natural features of the spectacular oceanfront location.
On the third level, a gallery, which opens to the main floor below, delivers unobstructed views of the Atlantic.
Dual primary suites are in each wing of this level. On the south side, a large bedroom has a set of bay windows that capture the view of pool and sea. And the ensuite bathroom’s exquisite onyx countertops in the color of soft sand, are another indication of the home’s luxury.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Massive Master Suite
In the top floor of the north wing is the master suite. The room’s fireplace has a facing of deep-veined cocoa-colored marble.
“I had a marble source in Fort Pierce,” Nadja Ricci says, “who had specialty slabs that he always reserved for me.”
French doors lead to a large, private balcony overlooking pool and ocean. His and her walk-in closets and separate his and her bathrooms — his with steam shower, hers with a soaking tub with ocean view — are just a few lavish touches that went into imagining this space.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
At the rear of the home, outside and across a walkway is the caretaker’s residence, a two-story apartment with living room and kitchenette upstairs, and bedroom and bathroom down a curved stairway.
The spirit of a house of this magnitude can be felt in its touches of flamboyance and pragmatism, such as convenient keypads throughout the house to access music or communication.
And then there’s the garage.
Two garage doors, at opposite ends of a ground floor expanse that traverses the width of the home, allow a driver to pull into the space, drive through and pull out.
There’s also ample parking space, and a bathroom, for the comfort of the chauffeurs.
The home is so solidly constructed that, according to Nadja Ricci, “If a storm brought a major surge of water through the garage, the garage walls could break away, but the house would still stand because of the steel pilings.”
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Entertainment and Recreation
On the ground floor is where the entertainment and recreation area can be found.
There is another guest suite on this level, along with a gym equipped with a wet bar and steam shower.
The six-seat theater has plush recliners with cup holders, a surround-sound system and dimmable lighting to mimic a true movie-going experience. Film posters grace the walls and are a fitting complement to the home’s Hollywood connection.
Credit: Indian River Magazine
Patricia Modell was a successful actress with a significant career. As Patricia Breslin, she appeared in such iconic ’60s TV shows as Twilight Zone, Bonanza, Peyton Place, and many others. Her acting career culminated in her long-running portrayal of nurse Meg Brantley, on General Hospital.
Donald Ricci designed and built this home in a lavish style suitable for the graceful living offered in oceanfront Vero Beach. His commitment to quality and craftsmanship has left a lasting imprint on the Treasure Coast, and that is exemplified in the home. It’s a demonstration of his success in helping to create some of Vero’s best, most distinguished communities.
The line of ownership succession of this home went from the Ricci/Modell partnership to the developer and philanthropist Brook Lenfest who bought the spec home in 2008. The current owners are listing the home for sale with Alex MacWilliam Real Estate for $16,500,000.00. The luxury resort-like residence sits on 122 feet of direct oceanfront, over a large private parcel of 1.25 acres.
Nestled onto the coastal shores of the Atlantic Ocean on a beautiful barrier island, Orchid Island is a sanctuary for its Members. It’s a gentle place, where moments are celebrated for the pleasures derived from nature’s beauty.
A Beachfront Private Retreat
The Treasure Coast is cherished throughout Florida for its sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle. Here, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club’s Members enjoy nearly a mile of pristine beachfront. These grounds are a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles and offer residents a peaceful, natural respite. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are also common to see off the coast, while the endangered whales sometimes skim the coast in January and February.
The West Indies-inspired Beach Club is the heart of the community, serving as a social hub for friends and families and the perfect spot to observe the area’s natural beauty. Numerous gathering spots nurture the spirit of neighbors becoming friends, including a tropical seaside pool, a pool bar, and private poolside cabanas. Multi-purpose rooms are also home to the numerous special interest clubs, including clubs for the arts, cards, Mah Jongg, gardening, sporting, and more.
Golf in a Certified Audubon Sanctuary
As one of Florida’s few barrier island courses, residents at Orchid Island enjoy a championship golf course surrounded by a unique natural landscape and warm ocean breezes. This par-72 Arnold Palmer-designed course provides a memorable experience for members of every skill level, with numerous weekly events, tournaments, and lessons coordinated by the full-time teaching professionals. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn welcomes another view of the peaceful natural surroundings of one of Florida’s most diverse landscapes. From white pelicans and roseate spoonbills flying overhead to otters and bottlenose dolphins playing in the lagoon, daily sightings of migratory birds and wildlife capture any golfer’s attention.
Healthy Living at Orchid Island
Health and wellness are a way of life at Orchid Island. Thanks to the area’s stunning natural habitats, outdoor enthusiasts will find it easy to get outdoors and be active. Members enjoy the Club’s private kayak launch while exploring the Indian River Lagoon, the most biologically diverse waterway in North America. Manatees, pelicans, tricolored heron, snowy egrets, and more all congregate throughout the mangroves and provide a beautiful sightseeing adventure. On land, take a leisurely stroll or bike ride through the Historic Jungle Trail. Crossing the entire Orchid Island neighborhood, this eight-mile sandy road along the breathtaking shoreline of the Indian River provides a beautiful backdrop for palm tree hammocks and coastal wetlands. The trail’s end also leads to Pelican Island Sanctuary, the first wildlife refuge in the U.S. National Park Registry.
Within Orchid Island, numerous health-focused amenities ensure ease and convenience. With more than 35 group classes offered weekly as well as on-site personal training and physical therapy, the Fitness Center keeps residents fit and motivated to reach their goals. Eight Har-Tru tennis courts and two new pickleball courts provide a variety of friendly competition for all skill levels, including round robins, clinics, weekly drills, and tournaments. After a long day on the links or a tough match on the courts, the luxurious spa will ensure members look and feel their best.
Delectable Dining Options at Orchid Island
Carefully balancing daily specials with club favorites, Executive Chef Chris Sozio and his staff create a friendly atmosphere and a delicious farm-to-table dining experience that delights every palate. The Pool Grille and the Turtle Bar offer an easygoing setting where family and friends can bond over casual fare and cocktails while spotting dolphins swimming along the coastline. The Beach Club is home to more gourmet options, hosting numerous wine events and special dinners that create a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Finally, Golf Club offers a comfortable and casual fare in a variety of atmospheres. Residents can dine in the main dining room, the fireplace room, at the bar, outside on the extended patio, or around the fire pits overlooking a beautifully lit lake with grand views of the fairways.
Extraordinary in Every Way
With a full calendar of events and amenities to enjoy, residents at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club cherish the opportunity to celebrate the good life within this nature lover’s haven. This charming seaside community, however, is filled with even more to discover outside the gates. Downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive are full of arts and culture, casual and fine dining, and boutique shops waiting for residents to explore.
For those interested in learning more about this one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine. This intriguing publication tells the story of the Vero Beach area and how nature coexists with the residents. If you’re in the area, schedule a visit to the Orchid Island Realty office for a community and club tour. Call 772.388.3888 for more information or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.
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