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Some properties are designed to impress. Others are built to endure.
The Fortress belongs to the latter.
Designed and constructed over seven years by world-renowned architectural firm HHCP for Harold Mertz, billionaire founder of Publishers Clearing House, this nearly 17,000-square-foot private compound is not simply a home—it is a legacy estate.
Throughout its history, The Fortress has hosted presidents, global dignitaries, private concerts, and high-level philanthropic gatherings, all within a setting of total privacy.
🌿 Absolute privacy in a natural sanctuary
Set on nearly 12 fully gated acres, the estate is approached via a quarter-mile tree-lined private drive, leading to a world entirely its own.
At its center lies a five-acre private lake, naturally spring-fed by Wekiva Springs State Park, surrounded by museum-quality grounds featuring:
- Imported European fountains
- Life-size bronze sculptures
- Curated statuary throughout the gardens
- Ornamental koi ponds
An environment of tranquility, elegance, and permanence.
🏛️ Architecture built for permanence
The main residence spans 14,623 square feet, constructed entirely of solid poured concrete, reflecting unmatched durability and security.
Architectural highlights include:
- Bulletproof glass
- Hand-plastered walls
- 25-foot soaring ceilings
- Graceful arches and curved nonlinear walls
- Signature fluted architectural textures
A massive custom bronze door opens to interiors finished in polished marble and terrazzo flooring, with brand-new floors in the main living areas and kitchen.
🛋️ Interior layout and iconic spaces
The residence offers:
- 7 bedrooms, each with a full ensuite bath
- Formal living and dining rooms
- Breakfast room
- Main kitchen with panoramic lake views
- Oversized island and pantry
- Separate fully equipped staff kitchen
Four bedrooms are located upstairs with the most commanding lake views, and three are downstairs.
A monumental circular atrium crowns the sculptural marble staircase—a process that took two full years to complete.
🎼 Bespoke luxury features
Additional highlights include:
- Two-story library convertible into a home theater
- Glass conservatory with Murano chandelier designed for a grand piano
- Elevator near the foyer
- Two authentic wood-burning fireplaces
- Custom Sherle Wagner bathrooms
- Hidden closets throughout
- Private bar adjacent to the piano room
🧘♂️ Private suites as personal retreats
The west wing primary suite features:
- Private Italian-inspired alfresco patio
- Adjacent private gym
- Full bathroom, sauna, and walk-in closet
Creating a fully self-contained wellness retreat.
The east wing suite enjoys its own Italian-inspired patio, reinforcing privacy and exclusivity.
🏡 Guest residences & resort-style amenities
The estate is completed by:
- Approx. 2,900 sqft guest and pool house with 2 bedrooms
- Independent staff quarters (approx. 1,000 sqft)
- 8-car garage with full bath, laundry, and storage
Resort-style amenities include:
- Pool and spa
- Professional tennis and pickleball court
- Hot tub
- Sandy beach access
- Multiple alfresco entertaining areas
📍 Prime location with complete discretion
Conveniently located near:
- Top-rated schools
- Leading hospitals
- Golf courses
- Elevated dining experiences
Offering effortless access to lifestyle amenities while preserving absolute privacy.
🗝️ A true legacy estate
The Fortress is not merely luxury real estate. It is an irreplaceable architectural statement, built to stand for the next century and beyond.
📩 Private showings by appointment only.
