In the heart of Palm Beach, nestled along the glistening shores of the Mediterranean Sea, lies an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to opulence and exquisite design. This magnificent retreat, owned by none other than the legendary footballer Lionel Messi, captures the essence of luxury living like no other. Designed by the world-renowned architect Juan Pablo Molyneux, the mansion is a captivating blend of artistry, elegance, and unparalleled comfort.
As Molyneux told Architectural Digest in 2008, homes in the area are often “decorated like resort hotels,” so this home will be more like a “winter palace.”
The mansion was inspired by the work of Addison Mizner, the architect whose Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Renaissance homes reshaped South Florida in the 1920s. A one-of-a-kind retreat, the villa stands out as a spectacular example of Palm Beach style, combining European luxury and contemporary comfort.
Large, attractive, festive and livable, the home occupies approximately 24,600 square feet and features eight bedrooms, eleven full and eight half bathrooms, a library, a formal dining room, and a living room. French doors open to a coquina terrace. It also has a billiards room, a chef’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a wine cellar and staff quarters, among other amenities.
From the stone ceilings and stone fireplaces to the gilded embossed leather walls and trompe l’œil finishes, each room embodies the designer’s special attention to sophistication and style. detail. Pointing to Venice’s glowing plaster walls, Molyneux explains: “The pigment is made up of layers so that it glows from within.”
Using gold, turquoise, citrine, ocher, coral and terracotta, Molyneux’s palette reflects the surrounding landscape. Transparent windows offer views of the water, sky, and trees. Outdoors, the staircase cascades from the two pavilions’ exterior corridors to the sumptuous terrace, bougainvillea-lined courtyard, heated swimming pool and lake pier.
Oceanside, formal gardens give way to a beautiful, private beach; Elsewhere, a guesthouse and pool house, as well as a spacious brick stadium, beckon. This is where Molyneux’s art resides. Thanks to the careful management of its owners, it is also a home that stands proudly among the estates and landmarks of Palm Beach.
Messi’s opulent retreat stands as a captivating marvel on the shores of Palm Beach. Designed by the esteemed architect Juan Pablo Molyneux, this Mediterranean mansion is a symphony of luxury, artistry, and comfort. From its breathtaking exterior to its exquisitely designed interior spaces, every corner of this residence reflects the impeccable taste of its owner. Messi’s Mediterranean haven serves as a timeless testament to the beauty of architectural excellence and the allure of a life well-lived.