Somerset, an Expansive Beachfront Mansion with Resort-Like Amenities, on the Market for US$22,500,000

Jupiter Island, Florida — When Michael Kittredge purchased Somerset in 1997, it was already an exceptional residence. The family acquired an adjoining oceanfront lot and the neighboring property for a total of some 428 feet of unobstructed beachfront. They then added to the original home, resulting in a family compound that is truly extraordinary with breathtaking living spaces and unrivaled tennis, fitness, spa, and pool facilities.

Somerset, offered at US$22,500,000, is represented by Fenton Lang Bruner & Associates with international marketing services provided by Christie’s International Real Estate.

Kittredge is, of course, one of America’s great success stories, as the founder of the Yankee Candle Company, the largest manufacturer of scented candles in the United States. His story begins with an enterprising 16-year-old who melted crayons on the family’s antique Queen Anne stove to produce his first candle as a Christmas gift for his mother. Twenty-eight years later, in 1998, Kittredge sold a 90 percent stake in the company to the private equity firm, Forstmann Little, for US$500 million. Until his retirement in 2003, he served as Chairman Emeritus of the company. He is now assisting his son, Michael III, in a new venture, the Kringle Candle Company, borne of a college marketing assignment and now offering myriad candle scents such as fresh baked bread, fresh cut grass, and rainy day.

"Our family has enjoyed countless wonderful memories at Somerset,” says Michael Kittredge. “It is a beautiful and happy home that will help create incredible memories for its future owners. We are delighted to offer it in absolutely peak condition, ready to welcome a new family.”

The palatial two-story home suggests a contemporary Bermuda design and features a staggered arrangement of rooms to optimize the ocean views and provide private spaces and separate wings. Adding approximately 7,500 square feet to the original structure created four additional bedrooms for a total of nine, including two grand master suites on each floor and the remaining with en suite bathrooms. A double staircase enhanced the home’s architectural drama, while the 12-seat private theatre, recording studio, and splendid billiard room provided entertainment and enjoyment for family and guests. The approximately 20,546-square-foot home is further appointed with soaring vaulted ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, and an elegant formal dining room.  

“The home is spectacular,” says Rick Moeser, Senior Vice President for Christie’s International Real Estate. “Add to that, the quality and number of amenities and this offering is simply sublime and a celebration of the finest in luxury Florida living.”

Family, extended family, and guests may play tennis on the home’s private clay courts, with a spectator gazebo, or exercise in the nearly 6,000 square foot and freestanding fitness center known as The Spa, featuring a steam room, locker room, bathroom, juice bar, and two balconies. On the roof is an approximately 2,561-square-foot covered open-air entertainment area that offers a welcoming fireplace, bar, built-in grill station, and an expansive sun deck overlooking the endless azure ocean. This space has been used for yoga, casual soirees, or alfresco dining. Multiple terraces overlook the pool, cabana, and spa.

Situated above the four-car garage lies a separate and very private one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse complete with kitchen and living room. This stunning estate is situated on more than 3.7 acres of manicured grounds, surrounded by tropical palms and vibrant landscaping.