Incredibly Rare Storybook-Style Hideaway Resembling a Fairy-Tale Cottage Lists for $525K in Florida

An incredibly rare architectural gem that looks like it fell straight out of a fairy tale is on the market in Florida for $525,000.

Designed by famed local architect Sam Stoltz, the property known as the “Plymouthonian” is in Sorrento, FL. It features many one-of-a-kind touches that have helped make it one of the area’s most iconic homes.

Built in 1929, the quirky stone home festooned with Stoltz’ signature bird designs boasts 2,245 square feet of whimsical living space. The eclectic design has garnered attention nationwide, and gawkers helped propel the residence onto our week’s most popular homes list.

“I have not seen anything like this home before,” says listing agent Jarene Mathias, of Re/Max Premier Realty. “It’s just absolutely gorgeous with soaring ceilings. There are cypress beams and textured walls that were hand painted by Stoltz. It also has some unique details like a hammered metal chandelier. It really feels like a storybook home.”

A circular drive leads to the home, which seems to have been plucked straight from a children’s book. According to the listing details, the 2-acre lot also has a “rock feature with a small waterfall, and a stream that once flowed under a footbridge to a small pond.”

Only a couple left

“My understanding is that there were five of these homes built by Sam Stoltz and only two are left in this area,” Mathias says. “The other sold a couple of years ago in Sorrento. The property is surrounded on three sides by 18 acres of native pastures. There are paths throughout the gardens. It’s really magical.”

The interior of the home features Pecky Cypress ceilings painted by Stoltz, painted plaster, coquina rocks, as well as irregularly placed windows with heart-cut wooden shutters.

“There are stories around that Al Capone visited the home, and his bookkeeper owned it,” Mathias notes. “Supposedly, it was called ‘The Little Switzerland’ at one time as well. A lot of people have said it is more Hansel and Gretel with its German vibe.”

Stoltz was revered for his signature bird decorations that were incorporated into his designs, and this house is no exception. A duck medallion are found over the fireplace, while flamingos and pelicans adorn the bathrooms, and cardinals and egrets are seen beneath the overhanging roof.

Interest was immediate

“The property has had a lot of buzz, with most of the people interested being some sort of artist,” Mathias reports. “We already have four offers. Hopefully, it will go to someone who will take care of it and preserve it. Some people have said they want to make it an Airbnb; but hopefully they will keep the character of the home, which seems to be most people’s intent.”

One bedroom is situated on the main level, with two more upstairs. Other highlights include a 45-foot chimney, stone and wood floors, and Mexican tile with Gothic archways in the bathrooms.

According to the listing, “The Plymouthonian showcases half-timbering in the gable ends, pointed window heads, and rough stone trim, all reflecting Stoltz’s artistic flair.”

Former staff quarters, now used as guest accommodations, are above the garage and have a private entrance.

“The guest suite has a bedroom, a bathroom, and a sitting area,” Mathias says. “There are two different entrances from both the garage and back of the house.”

For tinkerers and artists, there’s also a workshop and pole barn on the property.

Just north of Orlando, in the center of the state, the town of Sorrento is also an appealing opportunity, according to Mathias.

“Sorrento is a small town close to the 429,” she says, referring to the state road. “It’s an up and growing community. It’s 10 minutes from Mount Dora and 25 minutes from Sanford.”