John Cannon's alacrity and perspicacity became self-evident at the commencement of the relationship. The proverbial bar representing a standard of excellence was continuously raised in John's efforts to accommodate, interpret and design my vision for the residence. Homeowner

This Greco-Roman style Italian country villa is a collaboration between Cannon Frank and the clients, each prompting the other to exceed their own limitations to create a dramatic and exciting interior and exterior. With more than 15,000 square feet, the home wraps the clients in luxury with 17th, 18th and 19th century antique furnishings and artwork from the Biedermeier, French Empire, Art Deco, Art Nouveau and all the Louis periods. Now, the clients are expanding their extensive collection with early 20th century art. John searched throughout Europe, New York, Los Angeles and Palm Beach for these amazing finds. No detail is left unnoticed in any part of the house, including the two-tier, 20-foot-diameter domed staircase (with a hand-painted, gold-leaf mural depicting four mythological deities), the grand library, the secluded reading room, the private master bedroom dressing room and majestic kitchen.

Completing this fantasy are a 3,000-square-foot train room, a 15-seat old-fashioned Art Deco movie theater (which received first place honors in a national competition), bar/lounge, game room, exercise room, steam room, wet room and an aquarium, all with an air of 1930 Hollywood mogul. Cannon Frank’s creativity led to the design of the award-winning swimming pool with cascades, fountains, colonnades, mosaic murals and pergola. Their ability has even extended into the garden with the addition of a temple ruin on a private island in the middle of a river, which runs through the property.

Photography by Tony Soluri