Property Description
If you have dreamed of living on the beautiful Island of Venice, now is your chance to own a rare and unique piece of the island’s history. This one-of-a-kind estate, famously dubbed The Banyan House, named after a banyan tree that was gifted to the property by Thomas Edison 92 years ago, is now available on the market. Edison's banyan tree still reigns supreme on the grounds of the property and is a focal point that can be seen from Venice's highly sought after Harbor Dr. Built in 1926, the home itself exemplifies Mediterranean style architecture, and has been beautifully preserved, restored, and upgraded. Situated on 1/3 of an acre in the Venezia Park Historic District, this estate is conveniently located close to all of the area attractions; just a few blocks from the shops and restaurants of Venice Ave and the surrounding downtown, Venice Beach, Caspersen Beach, Sharkys at the Pier, and all things Venice! This home is accented with a stucco exterior, tile roof, and beautiful fabric awnings that are true to the period and style. Inside, the main house boasts 6 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, tons of designated living and entertaining space, and historic details around every corner, such as original ornamental beams and original floors that have been meticulously restored. The light filled sunroom has an old Hollywood feel and is sure to impress and bring you hours of enjoyment! Several suites throughout the home feature private balconies that overlook the grounds, some of which are built into the banyan tree on the South side of the property, creating a treehouse feel of shade and privacy. The entire property is being sold FULLY FURNISHED, with the exception of a few personal pieces that do not convey. On the Northeast corner of the property an original Carriage House has been fully restored to 3 APTS IN A SEPARATE BUILDING that can be rented out as a way to produce extra income, or used for personal casitas when you entertain your out-of-town guests. The grounds are truly spectacular and will make you feel as if you are living in a painting, or at the very least a 5-star boutique resort. Newly installed paver patios, driveways, and walkways wind through the property’s mature tropical foliage and arrive at Venice Island’s first ever in-ground swimming pool, built with the house in 1926, and recently updated with a new sand filter and heater as of 2019. Above ground hot-tub and raised tanning sun deck complete this relaxing space. The pièce de résistance of this tropical oasis is the beautiful custom Koi pond with waterfall and babbling brook that run through the main courtyard, echoing the sound of moving water throughout every inch of the property, delivering a constant sense of peace, calm, and tranquility as you move about. Behind the pool you will find a pool house that houses a gym, billiards room, and a half bathroom. Over the last 3 decades the home has been completely brought back to life with a new kitchen, updated bathrooms, new plumbing, new roof, upgraded electrical service, restored and preserved historic details, and so much more! A true labor of love for the current owners, the Banyan House Estate is a spectacular island oasis like no other. This property stands as a living piece of art, truly a conversation piece, telling the story of Venice Island and years gone by. If owning a piece of Florida’s history, and living on the highly sought-after Island of Venice is something you have been dreaming of, look no further.