Fernanda Pizzammiglio

CAN'T MAKE IT TO ST. BARTH'S THIS YEAR? Then live there year round without ever leaving home. 5019 Dickens is an Island-Style haven with a French accent; the new definition of luxury. Cannot be duplicated at this price. New Orleans copper gas lamps welcome you, leading to delightful surprises at every turn. Bathed in light, accented with custom tongue in groove paneling, the Living Room/Study is finished in French white oak floors, and served by its own indulgent bath and walk-in closet. (Easily used as a fifth bedroom.) The broad entrance hall leads past the elegant, tucked-away powder bath, into the truly GREAT room with gas fireplace, drinking in the sunny views of the pool terrace and pool paradise beyond. One end features the breakfast/lounge area served by a stone serving/buffet bar, into the show-off's kitchen; bristling with six burner gas range, wall oven, separate Thermador refrigerator and freezer, wine column, cold drink drawers, waterfall stone surfaces and a room-sized, "secret" custom fitted walk-in pantry. Nearby is the jewel-like Dining Room, wrapped in bespoke tongue n' groove paneling, with walls of glass drawing the outdoors in, leading to the Summer Kitchen on the terrace; complete with stone surfaces, hooded grill, mini-fridge, sink... it demands you make it an endless season for entertaining. The striking, gas-heated sparkling pool and spa are the icing on the cake. Floor systems for seamless transitions, high impact windows, an abundance of custom millwork, metal roof, all whisper in the background. The soaring garage allows plenty of space for overhead storage, and the elevator means hauling groceries up to the kitchen, or furniture to the kids' rooms is a breeze. (Studies show elevators can increase property values up to 10%). Ascend the white oak stairs, embraced by its soaring wall of custom paneling, or press "2" on the elevator and ascend to even more earthly delights. First stop, the enviable bonus room/Guest Suite, with storybook ceilings, breakfast bar, and ensuite bath. The other guest rooms up her offer the same inviting sunshine and attention to detail, each enjoying it's own private bath. Even the upstairs laundry feels more like a Park Ave. kitchen than a place to clean your clothes! And, the best for last. The private Master oasis. Custom strapwork highlights the vaulted ceiling, the bath is out of a five star hotel, and the "Dressiing Room" is something out of Gatsby; miles of fitted and hanging storage that would make a Kardashian blush. This part of sunset Park is always fanned by gentle breezes off the Bay, it's a quick trip to the airport, and enjoys the best of schools. Who needs St. Barth's? Some of the photos are virtually staged.