Nr. 11 Palma | The Rarest of Opportunities
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Credits
From KVD CREATIVE
History is in the making with this magnificent 14th Century, 13,500 sq ft Merchant’s House on the market for the first time in many generations. For the past three years, Number 11 Palma has been under careful and detailed restoration to ensure that this iconic property with 600 years of history is respected and relives its former glory.
Ivan and Sheela Levy of CocoSage Properties understand the importance of maintaining the historic value of this home and have chosen the most experienced artisans to unearth all the hidden treasures of the home, especially its beautiful, original painted ceilings
HISTORY OF THE HOUSE
Wanting to discover more about the history of the house, Sheela met the prior owners – a second generation family who owned the house since 1912. While rummaging through some of the old chests they had left behind, she found a handwritten diary by Irene Fryberg, a young woman who lived there for a period of time in 1921 which made great reading and gave insight into living in Palma during the 1920’s.
After learning more about the family, Sheela decided to have a historian do further research of the house. The earlier history unveiled that the house was built between 1300 and 1350 and was owned by a prominent Jewish family headed by Abraham Sasportas, a merchant, money lender and an outstanding leader of the community. In 1391, he was forced to renounce the Jewish faith and became a Christian – leaving the island a few years later.
THE MONUMENTAL TRANSFORMATION
The restoration, a long and careful process, started at the end of November 2017, and will be completed by April 2020. Respecting the local heritage and architecture, Sheela, planned the layout and design as if they were going to live in it. Together, with the best architects from London and Mallorca, they ensured that the minutest details were addressed. She even brought in a world-renowned Chinese Feng Shui master and only then could the intricate transformation begin.
"An entrance courtyard is beneficial in Feng Shui and by placing the main door of the house inside the beautiful courtyard, we simply enhanced the ming tang - the area where the energy gathers before entering the house," says Sheela.
Maintaining the original architectural elements was paramount; room heights of 12 to 13 feet, arches made from old stone and the most beautifully painted old ceilings, which are being restored to their old glory by masters in the craft. These are visible in the breakfast room, the old entrance patio and the kitchen, which also adorns the Star of Solomon on the ceiling. There is also an original chandelier which will be restored and remain.
The best of materials were sourced and used to restore this exquisite space. Over 4,000 sq. ft of 17th century Louis XIV period - original French aged oak flooring is being laid throughout the main rooms of the house (Incidentally this is the same wood chosen by the King of Morocco for his home); this has been combined with Spanish stone to add a sense of local charm. The living rooms have been left in their large, original sizes and enhanced further where possible to create a sense of space and drama.
Sheela then created a total of 7 large and comfortable bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms fitted with the latest Dornbracht fittings. The Master Bedroom suite features a walk-in wardrobe, 2 WC’s, Large Master Bath and a 200 sq ft. private terrace. Leading to the Master Bedroom is a private living room / TV room.
A generous roof terrace with sweeping views over the historic center of Palma as well as sea views completes this stunning property.
Added elements include a wine cellar, internal lift, laundry room, ample storage cupboards and a 3/4 car garage. The house is completely fitted with underfloor heating and central air conditioning. All electrical sockets are fitted with USB adapters. There is a media system for all bedrooms and common areas. All rooms are fitted with speakers, multiple TV, screen points, and high speed WiFi. All room lights can be dimmed. There is also a separate room for a live-in housekeeper/nanny.
FEATURES
Sense of relaxation and comfort in the heart of Palma
7 Spacious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, fitted with rain showers and double basins
Staff accommodations
Heated indoor swimming pool
Gym and yoga room
Two beautiful outdoor courtyards
One rooftop terrace with spectacular views over the old city, the Cathedral and the Sea
Parking for 3/4 Cars
Fully equipped laundry and storage room
A library / cinema / media room
Wine Cellar
A central indoor balcony
2 Fireplaces
Elevator - accessing all floors of the residence
13,500 sq. ft.