Property Description

A 1927 bungalow, essentially rebuilt, with a backyard that changes what you expect from Seminole Heights. At 316 W Alva St, classic porch-front charm introduces a remarkably private poolside retreat, pairing extensive structural and systems renovations with outdoor living rarely found at this scale.Behind an 8-foot privacy fence, lush hedges, cascading vines and mature trees create an intimate garden sanctuary. An 18-by-18-foot solar-heated pool anchors the setting, surrounded by 24-by-24-inch silver-toned tumbled travertine. Submerged ledges, jets and bubbling water invite leisurely afternoons, while a screened enclosure with an approximately 25-foot panoramic rear span keeps the garden in view. After sunset, glow-in-the-dark aggregate in the pebble finish responds to black lighting, color-changing pool lights set the mood, and three natural gas tiki torches bring dancing flames to the perimeter.The pavilion makes this backyard extraordinary. Built in 2021 with welded 12-inch steel I-beam rafters and 6-inch steel posts, its plans were approved for 150-mph winds. A matching metal roof shelters a seamless ceiling of custom-milled, 20-foot tongue-and-groove pine. Lounge beside the natural gas fireplace, gather for dinner or turn cooking into the evening's entertainment at the 30-inch natural gas Teppanyaki Hibachi Grill. An outdoor refrigerator, sink, generous counters and weather-resistant cabinetry complete the kitchen. Fans and layered lighting carry the experience comfortably into the evening.A separate covered lanai offers an enclosed sink and toilet area and an unforgettable outdoor shower entered through a curtain of living vines. Charcoal tile, a sculptural white accent and a penny-tile floor create a secluded place to rinse beneath the wood ceiling. Artificial turf, travertine walkways and a matching storage shed make the grounds as practical as they are inviting.Inside, the front door opens to a direct sightline toward the garden. A large picture window and two lower windows frame greenery and blue water, making the backyard the focal point of the open living, dining and kitchen areas. Wood-look tile flows throughout. Solid cherry Kitchen Craft cabinetry features a rich medium-brown stain, soft-close hardware and crown molding, complemented by slate-finish appliances. Two bedrooms and two interior baths include a primary shower with dual rainfall heads, a corner bench and pebble detailing; the third bath serves the pool area.The transformation went far beyond finishes. Between 2017 and 2022, three exterior walls were rebuilt, all exterior walls were re-sheathed in 3/4-inch plywood, and the home received a full electrical rewire with a 200-amp panel, water lines to the meter, sewer lines to the connection and new natural gas piping. A 2018 concealed-fastener steel roof, insulated hurricane-rated windows, spray-foam insulation, a 2021 gas tankless water heater and 2022 HVAC with new ductwork bring substantial modern infrastructure to its historic character.Walk to La Central for fire-grilled tacos, Angry Chair for dinner and craft beer, or Cappy's for neighborhood pizza. Armature Works and the Riverwalk are approximately a 9-minute bike ride away, depending on route and pace. Enjoy riverfront dining and an evening ride, then return to a retreat that gives you every reason to stay home. A rare combination of bungalow character, extensive rebuilding and exceptional outdoor privacy. For those unwilling to settle.

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