by David Chapman
Staff Writer
If you’re driving in and out of the World Golf Village, you’re bound to see the new Davidson Realty office just inside the bridge at the Town Center intersection.
The 17,200 square-foot building, designed by Ronald Scalisi Architects P.A., was based on elements of the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century and early 20th century, along with a touch of the American prairie style.
“The concept was that the building, while it would have a headquarters feel, would also have that residential warm and wanting feel for people,” said Scalisi.
An outside meeting area at the rear of the building creates an place for clients to get a taste of the Florida lifestyle. The area has a wood-burning fireplace, ceiling fans and bubbling pools. Offices are positioned so people can view the courtyard area, while corner offices were built with windows to give the rooms a complete view.
“We did that so it gives an unobstructed view in any direction,” said Scalisi, of the design. “It also reinforced the columns of the building.”
The interior was constructed and designed to be as functional as possible with features such as wooden floors, with much of the woodwork’s style also coming from the Arts and Crafts movement. Interior design was done by Connie Turner Interiors with many different features including the furniture finishings and stained-glass window above the main entrance of the building.
The new building can hold 40 agents, though it is not at maximum capacity yet.
“I think it’ll be a year to a year-and-a-half before we max out at 40,” said Sherry Davidson, president of Davidson Realty, who said there are about 25 on staff at present.
The building’s grand opening was earlier this month.
The two-story building serves the World Golf Village, Palencia and Kensington areas as well as areas ranging from State Road 210, State Road 16 and U.S. 1.
Some of the amenities include six conference rooms, eight meeting areas, a children’s area and two kitchens.
Each office can hold four agents, with the size of the office giving agents more space to work with and an overall non-hectic atmosphere.
“It’s just much quieter to get work done,” said Davidson.
Davidson seemed very impressed with the final product.
“It’s just awesome,” she said. “Absolutely awesome.”