One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Presenting The Fortress, set on nearly 12 acres, a one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece created for those who understand that true luxury is not merely styled, but built to endure, remain irreplaceable, and stand the test of time. Designed and constructed over seven years by the world-renowned architectural firm HHCP for Harold Mertz, billionaire founder of Publishers Clearing House, this nearly 20,000-private compound, has hosted presidents, global dignitaries, private concerts, and philanthropic gatherings of the highest caliber. Approached by a quarter-mile, tree-lined driveway, the fully walled estate is centered around a 5-acre private lake, spring-fed by the Wekiva Springs State Park area, and surrounded by museum-quality grounds featuring imported European fountains, life-size bronze sculptures, curated statuary throughout the gardens, and ornamental ponds suitable for koi fish. The main residence spans approximately 14,623 sf and offers 7 bedrooms, each with its own full bathroom, along with an elegant powder room near the main entrance, formal living and dining rooms, a breakfast room, a main kitchen, and a separate staff kitchen. Constructed of solid poured concrete, the residence reflects permanence, privacy, and security with bulletproof glass, hand-plastered walls, soaring 25-foot ceilings, graceful arches, and signature fluted architectural textures expressed through curved, nonlinear walls. A massive custom bronze door opens to interiors finished with polished marble and terrazzo flooring, including brand-new floors in the main living room and kitchen. The kitchen showcases panoramic lake views, an oversized island, an oversized pantry, a private service entrance, and a fully equipped staff kitchen with its own dining area. Four bedrooms are located upstairs, offering some of the estate's most impressive lake views, while three bedrooms are located downstairs. A monumental round atrium crowns the sculptural marble staircase, a remarkable architectural feature that took two full years to complete. Additional highlights include a dramatic two-story library that converts into a home theater, a glass conservatory with a Murano chandelier designed for a grand piano, an elevator near the foyer, two authentic wood-burning fireplaces, custom Sherle Wagner bathrooms, hidden closets throughout, and a bar near the piano room. The West Wing principal suite features a private Italian-inspired alfresco patio and an adjacent private gym with a full bathroom, sauna, and walk-in closet, creating a self-contained wellness retreat. The East Wing suite also enjoys its own Italian-inspired patio, adding symmetry, privacy, and elegance to the estate's layout. The property is further enhanced by an approximately 2,500sf guest and pool house with 2 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, staff quarters of approximately 1,000 sf, and a 2,300-sf, 8-car garage with a full bathroom, laundry, and storage. Resort-style amenities include a pool and spa, a professional court lined for tennis and pickleball, a hot tub, sandy beach access, and multiple alfresco entertaining areas designed for unforgettable gatherings. With countless custom and invaluable features, this is a true legacy estate, built to stand for the next century and beyond. Conveniently located near top-rated schools, just approximately 2 miles from Wekiva Springs State Park, Private appointments available.
