Orlando Home is an Enchanting Main Attraction

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It would not be hyperbole to say that the owners of this splendid Orlando home live a charmed life. From their glorious rooftop terrace, they can enjoy Disney World’s spectacular evening fireworks every night if they choose—just one of the exclusive amenities that inspired the creation of their enchanting third-floor alfresco perch.  Tucked within the Golden Oak community, the 7,367-square-foot residence is part of the Four Seasons Private Residences Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort and overlooks a sprawling golf course dotted with lush tropical foliage.  

Originally designed as a spec home on a pie-shaped lot by architect Phil Kean, the lavish courtyard vacation residence wraps around a pool to create privacy from its surrounding neighbors. Inspired by Disney lore, Kean, the CEO of Phil Kean Design Group in Winter Park, decided to introduce the neighborhood to a “whimsical castle-like exterior” since the property sits at the entrance. He designed the island-style dwelling to embody an Alys Beach vibe—the posh Gulf Coast community on 30-A that gleams with a mixture of bright white Spanish and Bermudan-style architecture. His courtyard layout allows for pool views from nearly every room in the home. It also boasts expansive golf course views from the primary suite’s two balconies, one of which features an adjustable motorized louvered pergola.  

“We incorporated a giant glass sphere fountain by artist Allison Armour at the entrance,” says Kean, “so I began referring to this residence as The Pearl. The homeowners purchased the property when it was about 85 percent complete, so nearly all the design features, furnishings, materials, and artwork were pre-selected by our design team and approved by the new owners.” 

The pool patio’s larger-than-life sculpture is an exception. Supplied by the homeowners, Doggy John Monaco is a massive red and white French bulldog that immediately catches the eye of anyone nearby. Created by Parisian artist Julien Marinetti, the piece was purchased in Monte Carlo to benefit the Fight AIDS Monaco charity and stands as a meaningful memento.  

Another notable change made by the homeowners was upgrading the wall finish to Venetian plaster in the primary and guest suites. The design team then suggested applying it on the living room ceiling as well, and added “diamond dust”—a reflective mineral glitter—around the three skylight-style windows so that when the sunlight comes through, the wall sparkles. “As this is our vacation home, we entertain quite often and have hosted many gatherings for family and friends,” says the owner. “The home is truly well designed for enjoying all the amazing views.” 

Kean collaborated with his crew of interior designers to create an elegant yet whimsical blend of island and resort casual. The rooms feel light, airy, reflective, bright, and open—with abundant natural light. Indoor-outdoor connections were honored with numerous balconies and outdoor spaces, providing seamless transitions rather than just multiple windows. Many of the tiles, countertops, and backsplashes feature blue hues and emulate the movement of water. Natural materials with varying textures create depth and contrast, and festive floral prints dominate the wallpaper selections. Bespoke details include an intricate smoky blue painted border motif along the opening separating the living room from the foyer. 

The spacious multifunctional kitchen creates the home’s central hub, including a walk-in pantry and a hidden catering kitchen. A custom cabinet features a built-in Miele coffee system, breakfast zone, snack door, and display shelving. An elaborate kitchen island integrates a sleek gray and white quartzite mix and a lowered dining counter for casual meals. Gleaming brass pendants illuminate the space and connect visually with the adjacent family room’s gold-leaf sconces.  

When planning this home, the gazebo floating over the pool and the rooftop (fireworks-viewing) terrace spark memories of Kean’s favorite spots. “I also enjoy the story that unfolded when selecting the globe water feature at the front that inspired the name The Pearl,’” he says. The homeowners adore the Alys Beach-inspired architectural design—and the fact that their home is the only one in Golden Oak with this design inspiration. They also relish the casual interior design for its livable comfort—an essential element for their grandchildren, who, of course, love to visit.  

“We think it’s quite magical, especially the triangular-shaped pool with the cabana and the outdoor living room,” says the homeowner. “The floor plan’s design and orientation give us a feeling of being on vacation every day in an extraordinary place. We feel blessed to call this our home away from home.”  

Story Credits:

Interior Design, architecture, and construction by Phil Kean Design Group, Winter Park, FL

Text by Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Michael Pelzer, Orlando, FL

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