When Florida Lifestyle Homes newest model, the St. Martin II, sold a short time after opening in February, buyers took note of the trend-setting features of the home as well as the quality of craftmanship in the execution of the design.

“Each year we review the features that have been popular in our models,” said Bill Ennen, president of Florida Lifestyle Homes. “We listen to what people say they want most in a home, we explore new materials available in the market and new technology to make homes more efficient and more livable. Then we marry these concepts into the design of our next model home.”

Several features presented in the latest designs have evolved over the years

“Florida Lifestyle Homes began expanding the focus of outdoor living a number of years ago,” said Randy Frederick, sales professional with Florida Lifestyle Homes. “Outdoor areas that feature living space and kitchens have become a feature that buyers demand. The St. Martin II once again set a new standard with a multilevel outdoor living and recreation area. That was a big hit with everyone who visited the model.”

The St. Martin II includes two connected lanais. Set beneath a stained tongue-and-groove ceiling is a living area with a fireplace. The second lanai has a complete outdoor kitchen, bar and dining area with a white ceiling accented by dark stained beams. There is a unique custom pool with a spa, special water feature and two turf-grass sunning areas. A fire pit and raised seating area overlook the pool, and an adjacent putting green provides the ultimate in outdoor living.

“This home showcased a number of other features that use a fresh approach to the design of the interior,” Frederick said. “Rather than the typical stone facing on the fireplaces, we used intricate patterns of tile. Instead of the stone flooring in the living areas, we opted for European white oak, which gives the home an elegant yet comfortable and warm feeling. The ceilings are painted instead of natural wood for a light, airy atmosphere. Instead of travertine flooring in the wet areas, we’ve used shell stone.”

The dramatic ceiling details continue to be an aspect of the company’s models that always prompt visitor’s enthusiastic response, Frederick added. “Each new model offers an exciting display of exceptional craftsmanship, with the St. Martin II including a multilevel tray ceiling, suspended beams, a barrel ceiling treatment and a domed ceiling in a powder room.”

In the master bedroom, the his-and-her baths are connected by a walk-though shower, a feature that has proved popular. A freestanding soaking tub set in an alcove is the focus of her bath, which includes dual vanities and an opulent chandelier. There is a separate dressing room adjoining her walk-in closet. His bath has its own vanity, private water closet and walk-in closet. The master suite also includes a private outdoor shower,

The St. Martin II includes four bedrooms, four full baths and a powder room. The open design offers a great room, dining room and a study. The gourmet kitchen features double islands, state-of-the-art appliances and a walk-through butler’s pantry with preparation space. The design reflects the influence of West Indies style while using contemporary expanses of glass to take full advantage of the golf course views. With a total of 7,771 square feet under roof, the St. Martin II flows seamlessly from indoor to outdoor living spaces. The St. Martin II was priced at $2.895 million, including furnishings by Norris Home Furniture & Interiors.

Founded in 1993 by Bill Ennen, Florida Lifestyle Homes, Inc. is at 14311 Metropolis Ave., Suite 101, Fort Myers. Visit www.FloridaLifestyleHomes.com.

Florida Lifestyle Homes Inc. is a preferred builder within Southwest Florida’s premier luxury communities, including Quail West, Naples Reserve and Treviso Bay in Naples, West Bay Beach & Golf Club in Estero, and Cape Harbour in Cape Coral as well as Babcock Ranch in Charlotte County. The company also has large estate home sites available in the private boating riverfront community of Caloosa Preserve and builds custom homes on owners’ lots throughout Southwest Florida.