Property Description

One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Presenting The Fortress, a one of a kind architectural masterpiece created for those who understand that true luxury is not styled but built to endure and remain irreplaceable. Designed and constructed over 7 years by the world renowned architectural firm HHCP for Harold Mertz, billionaire founder of Publishers Clearing House, this nearly 20000 square foot private compound has hosted presidents, global dignitaries, private concerts, and philanthropic gatherings of the highest caliber. Set on nearly 12 acres of absolute privacy and approached by a quarter mile tree lined driveway, the fully walled estate centers around a 5 acre private lake spring fed by the Wekiva Springs State Park, surrounded by museum quality grounds featuring imported European fountains, life size bronze sculptures, curated statuary all across the gardens, and ornamental ponds suitable for koi fish. The main residence spans 14623 square feet and offers 7 bedrooms each with its own full bathroom, along with an elegant powder room by 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 home reflects permanence 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 in polished marble and terrazzo flooring, including brand new floors in the main living room and kitchen, which features panoramic lake views, an oversized island, oversized pantry, private service entrance, and a fully equipped staff kitchen with its own dining area. Four bedrooms are located upstairs with the most impressive lake views and three bedrooms downstairs, while a monumental round atrium crowns the sculptural marble staircase that took 2 full years to complete. Additional highlights include a dramatic 2 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, 2 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, while the East wing suite enjoys its own Italian inspired patio. The estate is completed by an approximately 2500 square foot guest and pool house with 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, staff quarters of approximately 1000 square feet, a 2300 square feet 8 car garage with full bath, laundry, and storage, along with resort style amenities including a pool and spa, a professional court lined for tennis and pickleball, a Hot Tub, sandy beach access, and multiple alfresco entertaining areas, this home has countless custom invaluable features, making The Fortress a true legacy estate built to stand for the next century and beyond. Conveniently located near top rated schools, 2 miles away from Wekiva Springs Park, leading hospitals, Golf Courses and an array of elevated dining experiences, offering effortless access to education, healthcare, and refined lifestyle amenities while preserving privacy and exclusivity. Private showings are offered by appointment only.