Presidio Del Mar
St John, US Virgin Islands
“Presidio Del Mar” means “Fortress by the Sea” in Spanish. The design and execution of this incomparable estate took 7 years to complete on the largest site (1.63 acres) within the exclusive north shore enclave of Peter Bay. Presidio’s 645 feet of pristine shoreline is surrounded by protective reef and natural topography, maximizing the stunning views of Peter Bay, Cinnamon Bay and the British Virgin Islands. The property is surrounded on 3 sides by the tropical water and magnificent white sand beaches, and is sited for maximum privacy within a secure gated compound accessed from Peter Bay’s private entry road.
The solid construction is of timeless design and materials, incorporating local island stone with antiqued Chicago brick accents and exotic hardwoods. Views down all corridors and through all archways are precisely aligned to frame the stunning ocean setting. This is integral to the integrity of the design and draws attention to the unsurpassed architectural details and finishes.
Massive custom made iron gates with bronze accents greet you as you proceed down the hand laid cobblestone drive. The 25’ high entry space is centered above the large bronze chandelier which was created in Italy.
Real Housewives of New York City:
Presidio Del Mar was featured in Season 3 of the Real Housewives of New York City when all the housewives went on a tropical getaway to St. John. Ramona Singer blogs about arriving to this breathtaking villa.
North Verandah:
The North verandah with its unique outdoor fireplace is a welcome addition on chilly winter nights. There is a full sized regulation pool table and wall soffits with up-lighting that give a gently lit effect in the evenings.
Club Room and Office:
The Club Room can be utilized as a library, media room or music room. The separate office with its 2 foot thick stone walls has custom designed built-in cabinetry and a views of the sparkling blue waters of Cinnamon Bay. The magnificently appointed office is located adjacent to the master bedroom suite.
“Maho” Master Suite:
The master suite bay window area is 12 sided with a spectacular beamed ceiling architecturally engineered on two levels. The dark walnut and travertine marble floors were imported from Turkey. A private outdoor verandah with verdigris copper ceiling has direct access to the pool, hot tub and pathway to the beaches below. A coffee bar area connects the office and the master suite.
Twin walk-in closets and water closets, mirrored vanities that reflect the beautiful views and the elegant claw foot free standing tub are just some of the incredible details of this master suite.
East Verandah:
The East verandah is perfect for outdoor dining and lounging, with an expansive granite-surfaced open bar backed by mirrors to enable more water views. This area is extended by a natural weathered wood trellis that shades the pool bar and dining area below.
Formal Dining Room:
The formal dining room accommodates large groups for formal dining, with adjacent butlers’ station that connects to the kitchen. The subtle gold trimming, chandelier and unsurpassed views complete a stately dining experience.
Kitchen, Great Room and Dining Nook:
Elegant box beam ceilings with subtle gold trim, a bronze Italian chandelier and a 12 beam rotunda dining nook surrounded by windows accentuate the open layout of the great room. All Viking professional grade stainless steel appliances, elegant granite counters and Mahogany cabinets were custom designed and engineered. The dining nook completes the great room and has been engineered to extend out from the main structure. With a brick ceiling and windows on all sides, the nook offers an intimate yet casual setting. Some of the most impressive views are enjoyed from this vantage point.
Leeward Dining Barbeque Courtyard:
On the leeward side there is a protected dining barbeque courtyard with Weber stainless barbeque and multi-color art deco tile counter for casual dining.
Pool and Hot Tub Area:
The pool and nearby hot tub are all hand tiled and the pool has custom mosaic artwork and features two hidden grottos as “surprises” for guests to discover. This whole area has superb views of the crystal blue Caribbean waters of Cinnamon Bay.
Water Supply:
A state-of-the-art water purification system with 100,000 gallon underground potable water cistern ensures a lifetime water supply by capturing rain water from the estates gutter system. This water is purified and stored in the advanced basement and storage room for the ultimate in “green” efficiency.
Guest House Bungalows:
Five separate guest bungalow suites have private decks, outdoor stone showers as well as indoor tile showers, large walk-in closets with granite counters, coffee nooks, wireless internet and wired satellite TV, air conditioning, and 3 laundry facilities. All bungalows are separate and private but connect by walkways to the main residence.
Presidio’s Parapet:
Stone stairs lead up to a fabulous sun deck atop the “Hawks Nest” guest suite with unparalleled water views in all directions. Sunsets here are unmatched with commanding views of St. John’s north shore and the beauty of the distant British Virgin Islands.
Garage and Parking:
Parking is not an issue at Presidio as the property is complete with a 4 car garage and multiple parking spaces, both covered and open. Storage facilities are also located here for diving equipment, beach accessories, extra furniture or a hobby area.
Landscaping, Windows and other details:
One example of the impressive attention to detail and added expense that the owners of the estate took on are the windows. Engineered to withstand massive force from a severe storm, they have been strength-tested to withstand a 2-by-4 piece of lumber being hurled at over 100 miles per hour. Exacting planning and care have gone into creating a one-of-a-kind property with natural, exotic landscaping and outdoor lighting that work harmoniously to achieve a timeless experience when walking the grounds. The perimeter is linked by a series of white sand walking paths that lead down to Peter Bay and the white sand beaches below, where pelicans dive for their catch and turtles regularly come to feed on the coral directly in front of Presidio Del Mar.
Beaches:
Presidio Del Mar is located a short snorkel from the world renowned beach of Trunk Bay and overlooks Cinnamon Bay, part of the protected habitat of Virgin Islands National Park. Presidio Del Mar’s perfect design and ideal location makes it a true “Fortress by the Sea” and the ultimate jewel in the Caribbean.
For more information on Presidio Del Mar, please contact the Dalzell Group at (858) 755-7740
