A grand Mediterranean estate
The Andre Hakka house is a spectacular Mediterranean estate in the upscale neighbourhood of Coral Gables, Florida. Listed for $13 million, this 10,300-square-foot property spans nearly an acre and oozes old-world elegance and charm.
Built-in 2007, the Andre Hakka house takes design cues from grand villas and palaces of Southern Europe. It features classic Mediterranean architectural elements like arched entryways, floor-to-ceiling windows, and intricate stone and tilework. However, it also incorporates modern luxuries like an elevator, smart home technology, and luxury finishes. The end result is a one-of-a-kind estate that seamlessly blends old-world opulence with contemporary comforts.
Landscaped grounds and outdoor living spaces
The grounds of the Andre Hakka house, spanning nearly a full acre, have been meticulously landscaped to complement the grand estate. Tall Italian cypress trees line the long driveway, welcoming guests with a sense of arrival. An impressive motor court allows for ample parking.
Out back, the lushly landscaped yard feels like an oasis within the busy city. Symmetry is displayed with rows of olive trees, flowering plants, and stone pathways. There are multiple spaces for outdoor living, from al fresco dining areas to lounging spaces perfect for relaxing. Tall hedges and sprawling oak trees provide ample privacy from neighbours. Perhaps the pièce de résistance is the stunning infinity edge pool, lined with flagstone and overlooking the greenery below. Lush landscaping and shady cabanas make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Opulent interiors with Old World details
Stepping inside the Andre Hakka house is like transporting to Southern Europe. A two-story foyer with travertine floors, arched doorways, and a dramatic staircase sets the tone. Luxurious materials like limestone, marble, and hand-carved plaster and mouldings abound. Classical details like coffered and beamed ceilings conjure a sense of Old World grandeur, while large swathes of windows fill the home with natural light.
The floor plan is ideally suited for both formal and casual living. A grand formal living room and a more relaxed family room with wood-burning fireplaces exist. The gourmet kitchen makes an impressive statement with top-of-the-line appliances, marble countertops, and a large centre island. It opens to a spacious breakfast area and a casual sitting room—ideal for family gatherings.
The second level houses the luxurious primary bedroom suite. It boasts dual baths, two large walk-in closets, and a private lounge with a fireplace. Five additional en-suite bedrooms provide ample space for guests or multi-generational living. There is a wet bar, media room, and temperature-controlled wine room for entertaining.
Smart home technologies and resort-like amenities
While exuding an old-world ambience, the Andre Hakka house also incorporates cutting-edge smart home technologies. Home automation allows for seamless control of lighting, security cameras, HVAC, and entertainment from any device. The home boasts high-speed fibre for fast connectivity.
Additional amenities read like a luxury resort. There is a full gym, space for a home office, and even a one-bedroom casita—ideal for guests or staff accommodation. An elevator makes all three floors fully accessible. Three-car attached and detached garages provide secure parking. Out back, the luxurious infinity pool is surrounded by a spacious sundeck and covered loggia—the perfect spot to lounge day or night.
Landscaping features include an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, organic vegetable garden, and bocce ball court nestled amid lush tropical plantings. No detail has been spared to make the Andre Hakka house not just a stately mansion but a true Mediterranean oasis and entertainer’s paradise. It’s easy to see why this one-of-a-kind property commands such a lofty price tag.
A historic neighbourhood with tropical charm
The Andre Hakka house is located in the historic neighbourhood of Coral Gables, known as the “City Beautiful” since its inception in 1925. With tree-lined streets and European-inspired architectural details, Coral Gables exudes old Florida charm while feeling like a modern, walkable city.
Just south of Miami, the neighbourhood is nestled among tropical greenery and natural water features like Biltmore Lake. It combines the relaxed feel of a suburb with an urban selection of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Being just 20 minutes from Miami International Airport also allows for easy escapism to beaches, art deco districts, and all the vibrancy South Florida is known for.
Nearby properties include other grand estates intermingled with traditional family homes. The prestigious Gables Golf Club and schools like the Cathedral District Elementary School cement Coral Gables as a desirable location for families and luxury buyers. With its prime location, stunning interior and grounds, and unique classical details, the Andre Hakka house is one of Coral Gables’ crown jewels.
A history of care and renovations
While the Andre Hakka house exudes new construction quality and attention to detail, the property has a richer history. It was built in 1951 and has passed through three different owners before its current renovation. Meticulous renovations have transformed it into the lavish estate it is today.
The owner, Andre Hakka, purchased the property in 2005 for $2.25 million. He embarked on a multi-year, multimillion-dollar renovation and expansion project to realize his vision for an opulent Mediterranean estate. Original mid-century elements were stripped away for Old-World architectural forms and luxurious materials. Two additional stories were also added to increase the home’s size.
Master artisans were brought in to complete intricate details like hand-carved plaster ceilings and ornate ironwork. Only the highest quality products were used, from Italian marble to French oak flooring. Outdoor living spaces and gardens were designed to complement the grandeur within. Modern infrastructure like smart home tech and resort-like amenities were also installed.
The result is a one-of-a-kind property with no expense spared. Over a decade after the renovations were completed, the Andre Hakka house remains in impeccable condition. With its historic roots and recent opulent transformation, the estate has truly come into its own. It is a crown jewel among Coral Gables homes and a testament to South Florida’s architectural heritage and continual coastal reinvention.
Primed for its next chapter
After 17 years of enjoying his meticulously crafted oasis, Andre Hakka recently listed the 10,300-square-foot property for $13 million. The asking price reflects its prime location, rare architectural details, and resort-like amenities on nearly an acre.
Given Coral Gables’ reputation as an enclave for luxury properties, the Andre Hakka house will surely attract high-net-worth severe buyers. Perhaps a wealthy business owner, high-powered entertainer or foreign investor will purchase the estate as a primary Miami residence or vacation getaway. It could also appeal to buyers looking to transform it into a lavish inn or event venue to be enjoyed by many.
Whatever becomes of its next chapter, the Andre Hakka house will continue delighting with its details for decades. Its timeless design, meticulous renovation, and idyllic location cement its status among Coral Gables’ most outstanding estates.
Lavish interior design and finishes
The interior design of the Andre Hakka house oozes luxury and old-world opulence. Features include coffered ceilings adorned with intricate plaster mouldings, arched entryways trimmed in limestone, and ornate wrought iron railings and light fixtures. Walls and ceilings are finished with luxurious materials like polished travertine, marble and Venetian plaster. Floors feature marble, wide plank European oak or tile arranged in geometric patterns. Custom millwork, cabinetry, crown moulding and built-ins are found in all the main rooms.
Gourmet chef’s kitchen
The kitchen is truly a gourmet chef’s dream. Finished in luxurious Calacatta marble, it features top-of-the-line Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele appliances. These include two dishwashers, double wall ovens, a gas cooktop, a pot filler faucet, and a sizeable panelled refrigerator. An oversized center island with a marble breakfast bar provides ample workspace. Adjacent is a casual dining area and a coffee bar—ideal for enjoying meals with family and friends.
Lavish primary bedroom and bath
The owner’s quarters are lavish, as befits the primary suite of such an estate. The large bedroom boasts graceful arched entryways, coffered ceilings, and a private sitting area with a fireplace. Two large custom walk-in closets provide generous storage. The luxurious en-suite baths include his-and-hers vanities, soaking tubs, frameless glass showers, and marble finishes. Dual balconies add to the luxury, allowing one to enjoy scenic views and tropical breezes.
Media and entertainment rooms
The large media room has a private entrance and makes the perfect home theatre or game room. Featuring surround sound and large-format projection, it can accommodate everyone for movie marathons. An adjacent wet bar makes this wing ideal for casual entertaining as well. The temperature-controlled wine cellar provides the optimal environment for housing a high-end collection.
Additional guest suites
In addition to the lavish primary suite, five beautifully appointed guest bedrooms are on the second level. Each offers its private bath and balcony, with luxurious finishes and custom furnishings for maximum comfort. The guest rooms ensure ample space for visiting friends and family and could function as live-in guest suites or au pair quarters.
Outdoor kitchen and entertaining spaces
Outdoor entertainment is taken to the next level with features like an outdoor gourmet kitchen with professional-grade appliances. Nearby is a covered cabana bar area, fire pit and additional lounging spaces. The broad loggias and balconies take full advantage of the tropical weather, creating an indoor/outdoor flow throughout the lushly landscaped grounds.
In conclusion,
the Andre Hakka house is a unique architectural gem and an unmatched luxury estate. Spanning nearly an acre in the elite enclave of Coral Gables, it seamlessly blends old-world Mediterranean elegance with modern comforts and resort-like amenities.
Meticulous renovations transformed what was once a mid-century home into a grand palazzo fit for any discerning buyer. Every detail has been attended to with the finest quality finishes, materials, and craftsmanship. The grounds are a lush oasis designed for luxury outdoor living.
It’s no wonder that after enjoying it for 17 years, Andre Hakka has listed the home for $13 million. At nearly 10,300 square feet, the Andre Hakka house is primed to delight its new owners for decades. Its prime location in prestigious Coral Gables, rare architectural pedigree, and impeccably designed interior make it one of South Florida’s most outstanding properties. Whoever purchases this Mediterranean mansion will acquire a timeless luxury estate to cherish for generations.
