Potter Homes – 285 Albatross

This 3,454-square-foot, five-bedroom custom home on the bayfront of Fort Myers Beach represents the rare convergence of thoughtful design, creative problem-solving, and deeply personal craftsmanship.
Built in a waterfront flood zone, the foundational planning challenge was well understood — no livable space at ground level, elevated construction throughout. But it was during construction that the team identified an extraordinary opportunity: a bonus mezzanine level on the third floor, complete with a lookout balcony delivering peekaboo Gulf views and sweeping panoramic vistas of Estero Bay. Capturing this space required overcoming significant MEP coordination challenges in a design-build environment — the result of creativity, collaboration, and an owner willing to say yes to something special.

Throughout the home, coastal whites and natural wood tones create a warm, unhurried atmosphere that feels simultaneously luxurious and effortlessly beachy. Custom cabinetry and intricate custom trim work define every room, while thoughtful design details make each space feel curated rather than constructed.

Perhaps the most personal touch: a scaled model Chris-Craft boat handcrafted by the owner’s father nearly 80 years ago serves as the home’s artistic centerpiece — a beautiful reminder that the finest custom homes are ultimately expressions of the lives lived within them.
Impact Statement
• 3,454 SF five-bedroom bayfront custom home on Fort Myers Beach
• Bonus mezzanine with lookout balcony — peekaboo Gulf and panoramic Estero Bay views
• Coastal whites and natural wood tones throughout with custom trim and cabinetry
• Fully integrated pool automation, whole-house generator, and lighting control systems
• Vintage Chris-Craft scale model as signature art centerpiece
Custom Cabinetry & Millwork — Locally crafted custom cabinetry and intricate trim work are the defining interior features of this home. From built-ins to kitchen to bath, the millwork elevates every space and delivers the curated, crafted quality that separates a truly custom home from the ordinary.
Lutron Lighting Control System — Whole-home lighting automation creates effortless ambiance control throughout all three levels. From the mezzanine lookout to the poolside entertaining area, lighting scenes can be set, scheduled, and adjusted to match the mood of any moment — a hallmark of modern luxury living.
Generac Whole-House Generator — A whole-house generator is an essential specification for a coastal flood-zone home in Southwest Florida. Providing seamless automatic backup power for the entire home — including pool systems, climate control, and lighting — it delivers peace of mind through hurricane season and beyond.
Pentair IntelliConnect Pool Automation — Fully automated in-ground pool management controls temperature, lighting, water features, and chemistry remotely via smartphone. A natural fit for a bayfront home where outdoor living is central to the lifestyle.
Wide Plank Engineered Hardwood Flooring — Continuous wide-plank engineered hardwood grounds the coastal white palette with natural warmth and texture throughout the home. Its dimensional stability makes it the ideal specification for a three-story coastal environment subject to Florida’s humidity and salt air.