3730 Preserve Bay Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL, 32408

Priced to Sell, Just Reduced $980k! Perched on 3 large lots with 380 feet of water-frontage on the West Bay waters of the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, this home, dubbed the ''Villa Chimera'', evokes an imperial aura. Inspired by the classic Palladian Villas of the Veneto in Italy, this residence was years in the making from planning, to design, to construction and boasts an architectural integrity and authenticity rarely found in builds today. The owner studied the style of Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio for several years in Italy before seeking out a local architect capable of bringing their vision to life. Widely considered the most notable architect in history, Palladio's work influenced architecture worldwide for centuries, therefore the owner's request was not a simple proposition. They ultimately selected Philip Spann; an architect based in Seagrove Beach who worked on plans for two years based off the hand sketched drawings of the owner.The regal foyer sets the tone for what lies within the home with its cushion cut marble walls, solid stone stairs with balusters crafted of marble, a custom cut marble compass rose inlay in the floor, and a grand Schonbek Chandelier draped with crystals. Just off the foyer, a look into the dining room reveals graduated Venetian plaster walls designed to appear like the many walls of Venetian Palazzos stained from the rising tides of the lagoon over the centuries. A custom stone table crafted in Rome outside of the Vatican walls is a striking centerpiece.Every finish and selection throughout this property was carefully sourced and constructed to create an accurate representation of a Venetian Palazzo from minor to major elements. The walls in the great room are upholstered in silk made in Venice by the Bevilacqua Family, famous internationally for their intricate fabrics. The millwork has a hand applied strie to replicate the authentic woodwork of the time. The doorknobs throughout the home are all handcrafted by Baltica with each knob related to all the others. When a material could be sourced from Italy or abroad, it was, giving this home an unparalleled purity of design.This unique and deliberate customization continues throughout all the rooms of the residence with marble and limestone accents in the grand living room overlooking the bay. At the heart of the room, find a stunning marble fireplace and note the millwork crafted from individual blocks, perfectly aligned by artisan woodworkers. A media room adjacent to the living room serves as a cozy space to unwind with wood paneled walls and a custom movie theatre size screen with theatre-style lights.This home has welcomed many guests through its doors for festivities of all types over the years, and the ease of entertaining is evident in the gourmet kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a breakfast bar, and a separate bar area. A butler's pantry with additional appliances, storage, and more provides convenience for preparing all the necessities of large-scale soirees.As likely anticipated, the second level master suite is suitable for royalty with separate his and hers bathrooms, closets, and offices. The sleeping quarters include gorgeous bay views along with a private columned balcony. Artist Jody Matokovich hand painted the Groin Vault on the ceiling of the bedroom with a style influenced by the frescos of the Renaissance. Each master bathroom offers heated floors and double showers with jets while one is centered around a stunning free-standing bathtub. In addition, the suite includes an exercise room with sauna and a vault plus safe room with ventilation.Not to be overshadowed by the interiors, the outdoor spaces of the Villa Chimera are equally enchanting. A towering iron gate secures the property which features over 3 beautifully landscaped acres and 380 feet of waterfront on West Bay.