Hidden beneath the lavish, old-world Italian design of the Mar Pietra compound in Delray Beach, Florida, lies a subterranean paradise of modern luxury. Owned by Massimo Musa, the founder of multiple companies in the eye-care industry, this unique home combines Italian flair with contemporary amenities.
The upper levels of Mar Pietra boast exquisite features such as 300 stone-carved columns, vaulted ceilings, and even a fresco painted in Florence, Italy. The craftsmanship is evident throughout the limestone-clad residence, which sits on 100 feet of beachfront property along South Ocean Boulevard.
But it’s what lies below that truly sets Mar Pietra apart. The subterranean space is a world of its own, featuring a supercar gallery, a glowing tequila bar, and even a steel vault filled with piles of cash. This hidden oasis adds a modern twist to the home’s traditional exterior, offering a unique juxtaposition of design themes.
The construction of Mar Pietra was a labor of love that took five years to complete. Musa enlisted the help of dozens of craftsmen, painters, and sculptors, many of whom were brought in from Italy. The materials used in the construction are equally impressive, with tons of limestone imported from Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, hand-carved marble from Verona, Italy, and massive cedar panels from Colombia.
The sheer size and grandeur of Mar Pietra make it a rare find in Palm Beach County. The estate is over five times larger than the average Delray Beach home sold in the first quarter, and its eight-figure price tag is more than 18 times the area’s average sales price for a luxury home.
Despite its remarkable features and prime location, finding a buyer for Mar Pietra hasn’t been easy. The home has been on and off the market since December 2021, with a steady asking price of $60 million. However, real estate agent Senada Adzem remains confident in the property’s value and the strength of the high-end real estate market in South Florida. She believes that wealthy clients are drawn to Palm Beach County for its oceanfront locations, privacy, and uniqueness.
To sweeten the deal, Adzem and Musa are offering a two-lot package deal that includes an adjacent lot on the Intracoastal Waterway. This would create the only ocean-to-intracoastal compound in Delray Beach, complete with a rare spot to dock a mega yacht. The price for this exclusive package has yet to be disclosed, but it adds an extra level of desirability for potential buyers.
Despite a slight increase in luxury single-family home inventory and a decrease in average sales price in Delray Beach, Adzem remains optimistic about the ultra-luxury real estate market. She points to recent sales in nearby Highland Beach, where an oceanfront home sold for $50 million, as evidence of continued demand for high-end properties.
Mar Pietra stands out not only for its quality of construction but also for its rare zoning allowances. Musa took advantage of the lot’s unique zoning history to build a home with a larger footprint and closer proximity to the shoreline than would typically be permitted. The property’s generous zoning allowances are considered priceless by Adzem and add to its overall appeal.
The grandeur of Mar Pietra extends throughout the property, from the limestone-clad porte-cochere and circular motor court to the central open-air courtyard inspired by Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami. Inside the main residence, a double-height foyer with a butterfly staircase sets the stage for the luxurious experience that awaits. The library, spanning two levels, features stained cedar from Colombia and a large marble fireplace from Verona, Italy. The primary suite offers breathtaking views from every window and boasts two contemporary baths with imported marbles and walk-in closets.
Deep below the dune that Mar Pietra sits upon is a subterranean wonderland. The air-conditioned garage can accommodate up to seven cars and is adorned with crystal chandeliers. The auto lounge provides a space for car enthusiasts to admire their prized vehicles, while a tequila bar wrapped in white quartzite adds a touch of sophistication. The lower level also includes a state-of-the-art theater and a steel vault featuring stacks of money, serving as both a functional storage space and a striking art piece.
Mar Pietra represents the epitome of luxury living in Delray Beach, Florida. Its combination of old-world charm, modern amenities, and exclusive zoning allowances make it a truly unique property. While the $60 million price tag may seem steep, it’s important to consider the rarity and desirability of an ocean-to-intracoastal compound in this sought-after location. For those seeking privacy, uniqueness, and oceanfront luxury, Mar Pietra offers an unparalleled opportunity to live in opulence.
