Hilton Home?

[Magic Hour]

I have seen the photographs of the Hilton Home at Seacrest Beach posted on this website. What can you tell me about this home? Architect? Owners? Length of construction? Proposed use? :idontno:

[kurt]

I wish i could remember the architect. I saw a web page about it years ago and can't find it again. I'm going to have to do some digging.

Here's a thread about it:
http://www.sowal.com/bb/showthread.php?t=350&page=1&pp=30

[njackie]

I think it is dyson, go to www.ArthurDyson.com

[kurt]

Thanks! Click on residences and it's the first one. Fascinating photos and description.


http://www.arthurdyson.com/hiltonhouse/hiltonmodel3_1.jpg
Nestled amid the sand dunes on the Gulf of Mexico at Panama City, Florida, the Hilton residence contains 9,500 square feet of living space. Primary rooms are suspended on concrete pods at various levels within a greenhouse structure of coral-tinted reflective glazing. One interior stairway encircles a glass-enclosed elevator, while another winds around fully grown native palms. The top lacuna of an exterior two-level saltwater swimming pool fountains into the lower basin, then enters the interior by flowing beneath the edge of a glazed wall. Tiered roof wings sweep upward, forming a series of clerestories that shield the open floor plan from excessive sun exposure while presenting unobstructed views of the oceanfront during daytime and allowing stargazing at night. Remote-controlled fabric panels placed strategically over the glazing provide additional solar protection.

Interior spaces flow freely without walls or partitions, while scale and volume are tempered through the placement of palms and other tropical flora. Level changes rhythmically establish area separations and maximize direct ocean views. The varying colors and textures of terraces, walls, planters, and pools avoid sharp definitions of boundary, integrating the the interior and exterior of the home into a sense of contained movement. The gestures of the form join harmoniously with the surrounding swell of seabird, ocean waves, and sand dunes that embrace an exceptional building site. Everything set forward for the program by the clients indicated a desire for fluidity. All the exterior benefits of the site, such as sea breezes and ocean sunsets, are integrated into the residence to establish a refuge from the hectic pace of a busy business life and create a soothing place to relax, read, and write.

[RiverOtter]

Ok, today I am making a formal offer of $500,000 for the house :biggrin:

[FoX]

If you squint your eyes it kinda looks like waves washing around pilings.

http://www.arthurdyson.com/images/hiltonmodel2.jpg

[FoX]

The inside of a watch.

They sure will have a good view of Alys Beach from the op of that missile silo.

http://www.arthurdyson.com/hiltonhouse/hiltonconstruction9.jpg

[FoX]

http://www.sowal.com/050324-hilton-012.jpg

[Georgian]

It's obvious that the Architect spent enormous amounts of time insuring the design blends well with the existing architectural heritage. Would it not be a better design if it blended so well with its' surroundings that it was hardly noticed? Maybe if it was painted solid white it would mesh well Alys Beach.

[Smiling JOe]

Maybe they could paint it with camo paint. :idontno:

[FoX]

It's obvious that the Architect spent enormous amounts of time insuring the design blends well with the existing architectural heritage. Would it not be a better design if it blended so well with its' surroundings that it was hardly noticed? Maybe if it was painted solid white it would mesh well Alys Beach.

Well - some like to be different. And besides, the whole area is different. What heritage do you speak of?

[JustBeachy]

Perhaps they meant architectural integrity? No, wait.. :wink:

That is seriously one ugly house..there is no where you could build it that it would compliment the landscape.

[lenzoe]

That is seriously one ugly house..there is no where you could build it that it would compliment the landscape.
Oh, I dunno about that. I think it looks really avante garde .... for a concrete plant.

Still, I'd see the prior offer and raise it by 10K.

[kurt]

It seems to cause reaction. It seems you either like it or not.

[JustBeachy]

On second thought..it would look totally hot on the moon! :laughing1

[beachmouse]

I like it in concept. Love modern architecture in general, and I think they're doing some neat things with it. But I think it really needs to be on a 5-10 acre parcel with the right kind of landscaping/vegetation, including some bigger trees/shrubbery that makes the whole project seem more in scale.

[Smiling JOe]

I'm indifferent to Charlie's house, but I think if we found such a thing 100 years from now, buried under the sea, divers would come from all over just to see it, and it would draw even more curiosity.

[JustBeachy]

If it is finished by then?

[Cork On the Ocean]

One of my favorite architects and one of the most important of the 20th century was Le Corbusier who saw buildings as "machines for living". To me it looks like something he would do in this day. First time I saw it, I thought they used Le Corbusiers chapel at Ronchamps as their inspiration (hope my photo uploaded). Put it somewhere in France and maybe it would be complement the landscape. It does break all rules regarding "blending in" but wasn't that the purpose? Has anyone else heard that stimulus for the house was because they wouldn't let him put up anymore highrises along 30A? Also heard that Michael Jordan used to own the house next to it and fought it tooth and nail. Can anybody confirm any of this. I have great views of both homes and just curious if any of it is true.

Yes, it messes up our "feel" but it also should increase our property values. If it has half the light detail of Ronchamps and not just the form, it should be quite a masterpiece. Vive innovation, I guess.

[kurt]

One of my favorite architects and one of the most important of the 20th century was Le Corbusier who saw buildings as "machines for living". To me it looks like something he would do in this day. First time I saw it, I thought they used Le Corbusiers chapel at Ronchamps as their inspiration (hope my photo uploaded). Put it somewhere in France and maybe it would be complement the landscape. It does break all rules regarding "blending in" but wasn't that the purpose? Has anyone else heard that stimulus for the house was because they wouldn't let him put up anymore highrises along 30A? Also heard that Michael Jordan used to own the house next to it and fought it tooth and nail. Can anybody confirm any of this. I have great views of both homes and just curious if any of it is true.

Yes, it messes up our "feel" but it also should increase our property values. If it has half the light detail of Ronchamps and not just the form, it should be quite a masterpiece. Vive innovation, I guess.

Michael is not true.

[Cork On the Ocean]

Hey kurt,

Did michael ever own it? Heard it in several places. Also did Steven Tyler get the idea house in Watersound. When you took the tour the driver was going on about the 4 celebs that bid on it with Tyler at 12 mil

[Smiling JOe]

Hey kurt,

Did michael ever own it? Heard it in several places. Also did Steven Tyler get the idea house in Watersound. When you took the tour the driver was going on about the 4 celebs that bid on it with Tyler at 12 mil
Is there a 30-A tour that we don't know about? I guess if the group on the tour bus doesn't know, the driver can say just about anything.

[Cork On the Ocean]

You've got that right. You had to park back away from the idea house and a little old lady drove a minibus or tram or something. She went on and on about all the stars that have been bidding on it. Personally, I wasn't impressed with the house. Beachfront with no balconies directly facing the water exept for first floor as I remember. Pretty decorating though. Now you can drive all the way back through the subdivision

[SHELLY]

Looks like Phase I of the Jetson's Subdivison--goes nicely with the Flintstones Water Park in Cypress Breeze don'tyathink?

[sunshine]

thought I'd regenerate the Hilton thread -
rumors always abound as to the ownership, cost, etc. Today, someone stopped in my office asking directions to what she was certain was Tom Clancy's $60,000,000 home!
That's what the sales folks at a time-share presentation told her. :floor:

[TreeFrog]

Am I the only one who thinks the house next to Hilton's (to the east) is way uglier? To my eyes, the one next door is tacky subdivision McMansion.

(No offense to current and past owners, your mileage may vary, no affiliation with architects and builders, etc. - all the standard disclaimers)

[tidalfish]

Am I the only one who thinks the house next to Hilton's (to the east) is way uglier? To my eyes, the one next door is tacky subdivision McMansion.

(No offense to current and past owners, your mileage may vary, no affiliation with architects and builders, etc. - all the standard disclaimers)

Got a picture of that one?

[pgurney]

I'm indifferent to Charlie's house, but I think if we found such a thing 100 years from now, buried under the sea, divers would come from all over just to see it, and it would draw even more curiosity.

Haha. When I see it, I get this image of the Planet of the Apes. And instead of the Statue of Liberty poking out of the sand, it's the Hilton house.

I've always thought it was being built to look like a cruise ship...looking from the beach side of it.

[Philip_Atlanta]

Am I the only one who thinks the house next to Hilton's (to the east) is way uglier? To my eyes, the one next door is tacky subdivision McMansion.

(No offense to current and past owners, your mileage may vary, no affiliation with architects and builders, etc. - all the standard disclaimers)

I agree as well, both of those homes are so out of place.

[TreeFrog]

Got a picture of that one?

Nope.

[kurt]

It is a Georgian style?


http://www.yourdollshouse.com/images/homeslg/gibside.jpg

[TooFarTampa]

It is a Georgian style?


http://www.yourdollshouse.com/images/homeslg/gibside.jpg

Yeah, a faux Mediterranean Georgian with two giant palm trees on either side. :roll:

It is majestic and all but in no way suits the landscape. Charlie's house, I am used to. The two next to each other ... hideous. And easy to see, unfortunately, now that all that vegetation is down.

[imasunbum]

Don't get me wrong, I definitely agree with most of you and don't like the looks of the Hilton home. However, it seems that that thing has been under construction for years, maybe before anyone knew what was going to happen in that area (and didn't know it would need to blend). Seems like it was there when nothing else was except maybe what I use to think (or was told) was a nude beach. Remember when the cars used to park along 30A but you never saw any people. I guess they were naked in the dunes. :lol:

[Smiling JOe]

They are quickly building in Charlie's neighborhood, so the two houses may not look so out of place for long. I see one house, probably 3000sf, is now getting about 1800 additional sf.

[kurt]

There are a lot of things out of place here. The Hilton house is just bigger. And I love it.

[Smiling JOe]

ng built to look like a cruise ship...looking from the beach side of it.

From 30A, it does favor a cruise ship, but from the beach, I think it looks more like an opera house. If you look through my photo album, somewhere in there are photos of the house from the beach.

[Miss Kitty]

I am also confused by the starter castle architecture of some homes down there. There is enough of that in the city, why would anyone want that on a beach? I find that the houses like that here in Dallas are always helped by some beautiful trees out front to hide the massiveness. I still wonder who needs 6-7,000 sq. ft. for a house?

[Mermaid]

Am I the only one who thinks the house next to Hilton's (to the east) is way uglier? To my eyes, the one next door is tacky subdivision McMansion.

(No offense to current and past owners, your mileage may vary, no affiliation with architects and builders, etc. - all the standard disclaimers)

I wouldn't have said it first, but now that you have, I completely agree! It's not the house per se, but the not fitting into its landscape is what makes me grimace every time I see it. That house belongs in Mayfair, in London. It's a city house that needs depth and scale around it to make it shine. And tall trees! As it stands now, it's this oversized sore thumb that just juts out of the sand. Pity to do that to such a traditional home as that. It turns a classic design ugly.

That addition to the house down the street from it-- the one Smiling JOe mentioned--it's very ungainly and awkward looking to my eyes.

Count me among those who love the Hilton house even though the guy's an environment jerk. Odd for me, too, because I'm really not so much a fan of modern architecture as all that. I think the house is not well-sited, though. Like its awkward monstrosity of a neighbor, the land fights it, not enhances it.

[jhelms]

Nope.

Is this it?

http://www.sowal.com/050324-hilton-003.jpg

[TooFarTampa]

Yep!

[TreeFrog]

6 months later, and I still like the Hilton house way more than the neighbor.

I sure hope they open it up for a tour when they finish it. I'd love to see the inside. If not, maybe Kurt can talk them into letting him shoot it.

[Bud]

does this mean those girls will be coming down here? look out...;-)

[DERBYGIRL]

We just saw the Hilton house on vacation. We thought it was Hilton as in Paris but found out Charlie Hilton is from Louisville (as are we). I think he owns a concrete company. Sorry I don't think you will be seeing Paris anytime soon.

[Paradise Sea]

You know, one of the things I love about South Walton is the variety and oddities. Every time I come down here I drive around looking at everything that's been built in the past six months. It's so much more fun than Columbus, OH where virtually all of the housing looks pretty much the same,...very boring. Our house here in Columbus is pretty typical, inside and out, very conservative, nice but sort of dull. But, our house at the beach is sort of like the leaning tower of Pisa and filled with flamingos and color. It's known as Paradise Romantica and you can find pictures at www.GarrettRealty.com. It's where we let our hair down, relax and have fun. No one needs a beach house, much less a beach mansion, but it sure makes life interesting and more fun. Personally, I love the photos from above the Hilton House that show it's true design, "Winged Dove" and I also find the juxtapostion of the Georgian Mansion and the ultra modern Hilton house amusing. I, for one, love that people are able to express themselves here and hope that never changes.

[SHELLY]

I, for one, love that people are able to express themselves here and hope that never changes.

.....as long as it complies subdivision covenents. (Try painting your house at Aly's flamingo pink and see what happens) :biggrin:

[Paradise Sea]

Shelly,

Right you are, but we have so many different types of neighborhoods to choose from.

[njackie]

It is just an incredible house, so before its time.

[J-WS6]

Bringing this post back from the dead but...

I visited here for my 3rd time this past may and drove by this house on the way to my condo. I was amazed, being an architecture student here in houston, I had to know more about the house. So I approached it from a beach one day and got as close as I was allowed to but still wasn't happy. So I emailed Mr. Dyson (the architect) and he was happy enough to send me more pictures. This is all I have at my work computer, but there's more at home.

[Chickpea]

Bringing this post back from the dead but...

I visited here for my 3rd time this past may and drove by this house on the way to my condo. I was amazed, being an architecture student here in houston, I had to know more about the house. So I approached it from a beach one day and got as close as I was allowed to but still wasn't happy. So I emailed Mr. Dyson (the architect) and he was happy enough to send me more pictures. This is all I have at my work computer, but there's more at home.

Thanks for posting! I for one would love a tour.

[Miss Kitty]

Thanks for the update and :welcome: ! Are these photos current? Did he say if or when it would be finished?

[Smiling JOe]

That outdoor room in the last photo looks really cool.

I wonder how much Charlie would pay me to wash his windows everyday?

[J-WS6]

As far as I'm concerned yes, they are current. You can also see in the first pic that there is now a wall built around the property. I had asked why the project was taking so long, but he never gave me an answer.

[SHELLY]

I had asked why the project was taking so long, but he never gave me an answer.

Because he would be out of a job if he did finish it...that's why.


.

[tistheseason]

Originally, I though this house was wierd. But as they started finishing it, it really started to be amazing. PLEASE let me know if they ever open it for tours! I bet it is incredible in person!

[Miss Kitty]

Originally, I though this house was wierd. But as they started finishing it, it really started to be amazing. PLEASE let me know if they ever open it for tours! I bet it is incredible in person!

:welcome:

[J-WS6]

more photos..

[J-WS6]

All the pictures I've posted are from the end of May '07. The Georgian next door was being re-done due to mold.

[jodiFL]

I found this on Google Earth and couldnt decide if it looked like a seagull or a "winged" moon. But I have heard it has no corners because "bad spirits" couldnt get out if there were corners. :idontno: I could only think that this was going to be another "Winchester House".

[greenstreet]

I was told this house was designed (inspired) by the Nautilis of 10,000 Leagues Under the Sea (Jules Verne) fame, and is meant to look like that from out in the Gulf.

I guess with that size and architecture, it can inspire many comparisons.

[J-WS6]

anyone noticed any significant updates on this house?


I did 3D model of the house for my portfolio for architecture school...

http://inlinethumb34.webshots.com/41441/2294917400100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2294917400100456982PwYQFf)

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/39709/2078836880100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2078836880100456982doEGDd)

Enjoy!

Jonathan

[Smiling JOe]

There is significant change on that huge carriage/guest house they are building right beside it. I wonder if Charlie needs a gardner?

[J-WS6]

does this charlie guy have a website for his concrete company?

[Smiling JOe]

Not sure, google him.

[Ocean Lover]

anyone noticed any significant updates on this house?


I did 3D model of the house for my portfolio for architecture school...

http://inlinethumb34.webshots.com/41441/2294917400100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2294917400100456982PwYQFf)

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/39709/2078836880100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2078836880100456982doEGDd)

Enjoy!

Jonathan

Wow, amazing.:clap:

[Camp Creek Kid]

Yes! I noticed LIGHTS on in the house a few nights ago. It was really cool--the angle of the ceiling and the windows blend in with the night sky and the lights inside the house look like stars. :cool:

That is the first sign of life I've seen in that house (other than construction) in the 6 1/2 yrs. I've lived a mile away from it.

[Camp Creek Kid]

does this charlie guy have a website for his concrete company?

It is called Gulf Asphalt.

[J-WS6]

thank you. i absolutely love this house.

[hnooe]

I am liking it more and more myself....someday, in the distant future I could see it become a Maritme/Nature Museum along the lines of the innovative Guggenheim in NYC.

[J-WS6]

can someone post up a picture of the house at night? hopefully with some lights on??

[pgurney]

anyone noticed any significant updates on this house?


I did 3D model of the house for my portfolio for architecture school...

http://inlinethumb34.webshots.com/41441/2294917400100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2294917400100456982PwYQFf)

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/39709/2078836880100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2078836880100456982doEGDd)

Enjoy!

Jonathan

From the overhead view you can see the Bird of Paradise that I've been told the house was designed to represent.

Nice 3d!

[Beach Runner]

anyone noticed any significant updates on this house?


I did 3D model of the house for my portfolio for architecture school...

http://inlinethumb34.webshots.com/41441/2294917400100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2294917400100456982PwYQFf)

http://inlinethumb30.webshots.com/39709/2078836880100456982S600x600Q85.jpg (http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2078836880100456982doEGDd)

Enjoy!

Jonathan
Looks great. What software did you use? SketchUp, like daughter used when she was an architecture major at MIT? Hubby adores SketchUp.

[T.Cline]

I love it!!

[J-WS6]

Started with the CAD plans, imported to sketch up then rendered with kerkythea.

[Beach Runner]

Nice.

[sowalgayboi]

Not as of late, it will probably never be finished. There is now a guest cottage of the same design going up to the east of the main house.

[tsutcli]

Could be wrong but they were suposed to be building a house for their daughter on the property - or so I was told early on.

[sowalgayboi]

Could be wrong but they were suposed to be building a house for their daughter on the property - or so I was told early on.

Actually it is their mentally handicapped son.

[olive]

I toured it two years ago and they were only half way done with the insulation. The contractor at that time said it had been under construction for 10 YEARS!:shock:

[sowalgayboi]

I toured it two years ago and they were only half way done with the insulation. The contractor at that time said it had been under construction for 10 YEARS!:shock:

Here's a picture of his last project. :biggrin:

http://www.jmundyphotography.com/egypt/images/Giza%20Great%20pyramid.jpg

[J-WS6]

Actually, i was told by the architect that the house has been under construction for so long due to the large amount of other work that the contractor has...or has had the past decade...

If ever completed, this house should be in a movie...like Frank Lloyd Wright's 'Ennis House' on Blade Runner and House on Haunted Hill.

[olive]

actually, i was told by the architect that the house has been under construction for so long due to the large amount of other work that the contractor has...or has had the past decade...

I heard the same thing.

[DuneLaker]

Well, since he doesn't like turtles, calls them the little critters, I just hope he never gets the lights on.

[sowalgayboi]

Well, since he doesn't like turtles, calls them the little critters, I just hope he never gets the lights on.

:clap::clap:

[waterst1]

J-WS6,
Terrific model. Thanks for sharing the images.

[J-WS6]

hey no problem, i enjoyed doing it.

[LivinEasy]

I agree that the house to the east is way worse and way more out of place than the Hilton House...also cheap construction, with stucco over wood framing, which is a terrible idea anywhere, but especially on the Gulf. That is why they had it wrapped in tarps for so long as they were repairing all the rot. The nice thing about the Hilton House is that will blend in when Alys Beach is built out. It will no longer have a presence from the road, just from the water. If you ever have a chance, take a look at it from a boat. There is not enough beach to get a good view from there, but it really is spectacular when you can "step back" from it on a boat.

As for the WaterSound Idea House, Stephen Tyler did not buy it, though that would be funny. It was a guy named Bill Taylor, from Birmingham that is President and CEO of Merceded Benz US in Alabama.

[waterst1]

I agree. I thought the house to the east looked much better while it was wrapped in tarps...

[J-WS6]

I've never seen the Watersound Idea House. Anyone care to post a picture?

[waterst1]

The WaterSound North Idea House is a modular house built by Haven Homes. It is typical glorified "cracker" style.

[seaside2]

Typical Southern Living house. They might have a pic and plans on their site. We went through it, and while it was nice and had some good touches, thought it was overpriced

[J-WS6]

oh ok, i figured with the name "idea" house i figured it would have been something obscure and interesting like the hilton residence..

[sowalgayboi]

I think the "idea" house everyone was previously refferring to is the one that is in WaterSound near the gulf. It is currently for sale.

[J-WS6]

any significant updates on the house? unfortunately, i'm not going to be able to make it over there this summer...

[InletBchOwnr]

:clap:
We've been watching that construction for the 10 years it has been under scrutiny and work, and think it is fabulous for the coast and agree wholeheartedly that the one next door is out of place. What about the one further east still that has what looks to be a bird cage or gazebo on the northen end, the whole thing surrounded by a concrete wall now? We've been telling my now 8-year-old son since he was capable of understanding language that that was a "Super Hero" house, probably belonged to the League of Incredibles or some such. At 8 he has turned into a non-believer but loves to tell others about it.
I'd love to see it from the water and plan doing just that in August.
And we're saving now towards buying it in another ten years for, say around, $750,000 on a short sale. LOL.

[AAbsolute]

Charlie's got about 1,000 employees in this area. He can finish the house at any day and hour he would choose to. As for short sale, have you seen what he paid for those oversized gulf front lots that the home sits on?

I understand Paradise to have more linear feet of Beachfront per residential lot than any other neighborhood in Walton County. Is this is a fact?

[elgordoboy]

Charlie's got about 1,000 employees in this area. He can finish the house at any day and hour he would choose to. As for short sale, have you seen what he paid for those oversized gulf front lots that the home sits on?

I understand Paradise to have more linear feet of Beachfront per residential lot than any other neighborhood in Walton County. Is this is a fact?
I think you may have misunderstood, if by he you mean "Charlie". Or maybe I did :idontno:.

[30A Skunkape]

We were relaxing on the beach last week. I was reading this month's Oxford American Magazine which was devoted to houses and housing. Hal Crowther's The Cult of House Worship is a fantastic read. Here is a snippet I will post without further comment:

On the lovely beach west of Panama City, Florida, part of what was once known as the Redneck Riviera and recently as the Emerald Coast, a fifteen-mile hell of reckless development and architectural psychosis is crowned by a stadium-size beach house (built, I was told, by an heir to one of America's famous fortunes) that looks like an alien spaceship crash-landed on the dunes. If its architect didn't subsequently take his own life, he must have been one of the aliens.
:lol:

[AAbsolute]

I think you may have misunderstood, if by he you mean "Charlie". Or maybe I did :idontno:.

The way I understood it Doodle sold those lots to Charles Hilton or an entitiy he owns for about 275 each, which is pretty good for huge gulf front lots abutting Alys. Making Paradise lots oversized and delivering value was an important part of Doodle completing the whole transaction from Paradise to Rosemary. I was lucky enough to have talked to Doodle many times about his trips to New York to visit with LUK's exec's and his negotiations. I bet Mickey Whitaker and Bill Smith could write a pretty amazing and educational book about the sub-dividing and development of all that amazing property.

[TreeFrog]

We were relaxing on the beach last week. I was reading this month's Oxford American Magazine which was devoted to houses and housing. Hal Crowther's The Cult of House Worship is a fantastic read. Here is a snippet I will post without further comment:

On the lovely beach west of Panama City, Florida, part of what was once known as the Redneck Riviera and recently as the Emerald Coast, a fifteen-mile hell of reckless development and architectural psychosis is crowned by a stadium-size beach house (built, I was told, by an heir to one of America's famous fortunes) that looks like an alien spaceship crash-landed on the dunes. If its architect didn't subsequently take his own life, he must have been one of the aliens.
:lol:

Oxford American, worth every penny. I love the annual Southern music issue.




Sorry, though, I don't share Hal's opinion of the Hilton house architecture. IMHO, the psuedo-Georgian mess next door is the turkey.

There's no good reason why we should all have yet another architectural clone of the styles pioneered by Seaside or Rosemary . Or in a few years, after the style catches on, another Alys clone.

[Beach Runner]

There must not be an architectural review committee for that neighborhood based on the wide variety of architectural styles. It is my understanding that the owners of the house next to the Hilton house just wanted that style of architecture, and they had the right to build what they wanted.

Different strokes for different folks.

[30A Skunkape]

Oxford American, worth every penny. I love the annual Southern music issue.




Sorry, though, I don't share Hal's opinion of the Hilton house architecture. IMHO, the psuedo-Georgian mess next door is the turkey.

There's no good reason why we should all have yet another architectural clone of the styles pioneered by Seaside or Rosemary . Or in a few years, after the style catches on, another Alys clone.

I agree, I have always liked Hilton's house. That McTajMahal next door is a travesty, a monument of nouveau riche opulence that will hopefully fall into the sea one day.

[elgordoboy]

There must not be an architectural review committee for that neighborhood based on the wide variety of architectural styles. It is my understanding that the owners of the house next to the Hilton house just wanted that style of architecture, and they had the right to build what they wanted.

Different strokes for different folks.
Just as folks have the right to express their opinion that it is ugly.

[Smiling JOe]

If you have ever met the Hiltons, you would know that it is not Charlie's house. It is his wife's. I think Charlie would be happy living in a trailer, but his wife needs to show off their money.

[Cork On the Ocean]

The house is probably my dream home. I'd love to get into it because it's so reminiscent of my favorite architect, Le Corbusier. The magic of his spaces was the lighting. It would be interesting to know if the architect has captured dynamic lighting effects inside. .

http://www.architectenwerk.nl/architectenpraktijk02/images/ronchamps2.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/72/205278455_57307b0bc8.jpg

[SHELLY]

The house is probably my dream home. I'd love to get into it because it's so reminiscent of my favorite architect, Le Corbusier. The magic of his spaces was the lighting. It would be interesting to know if the architect has captured dynamic lighting effects inside. .

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/72/205278455_57307b0bc8.jpg

To me it kinda looks like a place that a Morman Sect would inhabit with 130 women and 400 kids :idontno:

.

[DD]

To me it kinda looks like a place that a Morman Sect would inhabit with 130 women and 400 kids :idontno:

.

Is it in Texas?:idontno::biggrin:

[TreeFrog]

Is it in Texas?:idontno::biggrin:

Unlikely. Corbu was French. Most, but not all, of his buildings are in Europe.

Yeah, I know the Texas part was a joke...

Guess I'm a compulsive record setter-straighter.

[Paradise Sea]

I'd say about 97% of the idle speculation I've read about ALL of the houses in Paradise by the Sea is wrong. I'm the slum lord of the neighborhood and in a position to know. We may have our problems but if you want to build a castle by the sea that reflects your individual tastes, Paradise by the Sea is really the best place available in the area to do so. To each his own, but personally I think the homes in our neighborhood are fascinating.

[30A Skunkape]

I'd say about 97% of the idle speculation I've read about ALL of the houses in Paradise by the Sea is wrong. I'm the slum lord of the neighborhood and in a position to know. We may have our problems but if you want to build a castle by the sea that reflects your individual tastes, Paradise by the Sea is really the best place available in the area to do so. To each his own, but personally I think the homes in our neighborhood are fascinating.

Paradise by the Sea will never be classy enough until somebody erects a flagpole taller than Donald Trump's.

[elgordoboy]

Paradise by the Sea will never be classy enough until somebody erects a flagpole taller than Donald Trump's.
The gauntlet has been dropped....who will pick it up??

[30A Skunkape]

The gauntlet has been dropped....who will pick it up??
I don't know, they might not have enough money around here to swing a giant flagpole...or maybe patriotism is an issue?

[AAbsolute]

I'd say about 97% of the idle speculation I've read about ALL of the houses in Paradise by the Sea is wrong. I'm the slum lord of the neighborhood and in a position to know. We may have our problems but if you want to build a castle by the sea that reflects your individual tastes, Paradise by the Sea is really the best place available in the area to do so. To each his own, but personally I think the homes in our neighborhood are fascinating.

Paradise Sea, I would hate to think I have posted something about Paradise or Charlie's job that is incorrect. Was there something I said?

[Camp Creek Kid]

To me it kinda looks like a place that a Morman Sect would inhabit with 130 women and 400 kids :idontno:

.

Just to clarify. The sect to which you refer in NOT Mormon and has nothing to do with the Mormon Church. The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormon) are not the same and have nothing to do with each other.

[beachmouse]

Paradise by the Sea will never be classy enough until somebody erects a flagpole taller than Donald Trump's.


Paging Jay Odom. The gauntlet has been thrown down.

[SHELLY]

Just to clarify. The sect to which you refer in NOT Mormon and has nothing to do with the Mormon Church. The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormon) are not the same and have nothing to do with each other.

OK...scratch that...make it the Osmonds.

.

[joho]

I'd say about 97% of the idle speculation I've read about ALL of the houses in Paradise by the Sea is wrong. I'm the slum lord of the neighborhood and in a position to know. We may have our problems but if you want to build a castle by the sea that reflects your individual tastes, Paradise by the Sea is really the best place available in the area to do so. To each his own, but personally I think the homes in our neighborhood are fascinating.

I like the idea that the homeowners of Paradise have an individual concept to build what "they like".
I'm all about self expression ............... :clap:

[J-WS6]

I agree. Props to Charles and Arthur Dyson for the amount of time it took to develop the design and actually make it happen. Whether you like it or not, I still think of it as a great architectural/structural achievement.

No pictures anyone?

[sowalgayboi]

That house will never be completed. There is a bit of sordid history behind it.

[SHELLY]

That house will never be completed. There is a bit of sordid history behind it.

...tax avoidance?

.

[Bob]

Just to clarify. The sect to which you refer in NOT Mormon and has nothing to do with the Mormon Church. The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormon) are not the same and have nothing to do with each other.now go forth and get Romney on the ticket with angry boy!

[Camp Creek Kid]

now go forth and get Romney on the ticket with angry boy!

:floor:

[bamablue]

Hello everyone! We love to see the progress made on the ''ship house'', (as my kids call it), everytime we come down there! PLEASE do tell us some of the details of the sorrid past this house has!!! It's really fascinating to hear about it and to see it in person!!

[Paradise Sea]

Paradise Sea, I would hate to think I have posted something about Paradise or Charlie's job that is incorrect. Was there something I said?


No, most of your comments fall into the 3% category. However, I doubt that even 1.000 employees could finish the Hilton House. The problems are not just labor related.

[Cheering472]

No, most of your comments fall into the 3% category. However, I doubt that even 1.000 employees could finish the Hilton House. The problems are not just labor related.

I've always been interested in your neighborhood. I knew your house right away from the avatar view. I wondered where the beach access is from your home.

[30ashopper]

No, most of your comments fall into the 3% category. However, I doubt that even 1.000 employees could finish the Hilton House. The problems are not just labor related.

Can you elaborate???? :popcorn:

[J-WS6]

I'm curious as well..

[AAbsolute]

No, most of your comments fall into the 3% category. However, I doubt that even 1.000 employees could finish the Hilton House. The problems are not just labor related.

My tile installers worked on the job and there may be product selections etc, and things other than construction, but I feel certain, as far as construction goes, Mr. Hilton's people complete that whole job on the date and time of his choosing.

It's got to be outside the scope of construction related delay, as is usually the case when you deal with that complex creature, the human being.

[seagrovegirl]

How many years has it been since construction started on the Hilton House? Four?

Obviously, it is very complex construction....guess I am just being nosy as to why it is taking so long. The house is fascinating!

[Santiago]

The way I understood it Doodle sold those lots to Charles Hilton or an entitiy he owns for about 275 each, which is pretty good for huge gulf front lots abutting Alys. Making Paradise lots oversized and delivering value was an important part of Doodle completing the whole transaction from Paradise to Rosemary. I was lucky enough to have talked to Doodle many times about his trips to New York to visit with LUK's exec's and his negotiations. I bet Mickey Whitaker and Bill Smith could write a pretty amazing and educational book about the sub-dividing and development of all that amazing property.

I thought Doodle sold that track to Geoff Wilder who ultimately sold it to LUK.

[AAbsolute]

I thought Doodle sold that track to Geoff Wilder who ultimately sold it to LUK.

I hope it's not in bad taste to talk about. I'm relaying it the way I understand it from my talks with Doodle because I found it intriguing. The Rosemary tract was sold to LUK in 2 phases. 1 South of 30A, the other North of 30A. I understood that Doodle had all the land in the original Barber tract in his control and the South Rosemary tract went to LUK before the North tract. How the South went from Doodle to LUK I don't know. I was just told that Rosemary was to be only South of 30A in its original plan.

What I do understand was that when the North 30A tract for Rosemary was in negotiation for purchase by LUK, Doodle flew to meet with LUK executives, including Joseph Steinberg, in NY and, instead of starting the negotiation with LUK's purchase of the North, Doodle turned the negotiation upside down by asking LUK what their expected return was going to be on the development of the North. They responded with their anticipated total return and, instead of moving forward with North talks, Doodle presented LUK with an offer, and a check, to purchase the South parcel back from them at that same rate of return.

Of course LUK rejected the offer to sell back the South parcel. This made it apparent that it was much more valuable to LUK than they previously had said and set the stage for continued negotiations on the North tract with Doodle in a much more fertile and advantageous position.

Pretty simple negotiating gambit on his part, but so exacting at the same time.

[Paradise Sea]

I've always been interested in your neighborhood. I knew your house right away from the avatar view. I wondered where the beach access is from your home.

The avatar view is looking southeast. If you looked southwest at about the same angle you'd see the beach access, about 50 yards from the end of our driveway.

[Paradise Sea]

How many years has it been since construction started on the Hilton House? Four?

Obviously, it is very complex construction....guess I am just being nosy as to why it is taking so long. The house is fascinating!

Construction on the the Hilton House began in 1999. One reason, but not the only reason, it has taken so long to build is that eveything in this home, from the structural steel to the windows and doors are of a custome made one of a kind design. For an interesting look at the structural steel check out the photos of this home on arthurdyson.com.

[30ashopper]

Construction on the the Hilton House began in 1999. One reason, but not the only reason, it has taken so long to build is that eveything in this home, from the structural steel to the windows and doors are of a custome made one of a kind design. For an interesting look at the structural steel check out the photos of this home on arthurdyson.com.

"Primary rooms are suspended on concrete pods at various levels within a greenhouse structure of coral-tinted reflective glazing. One interior stairway encircles a glass-enclosed elevator, while another winds around fully grown native palms. The top lacuna of an exterior two-level saltwater swimming pool fountains into the lower basin, then enters the interior by flowing beneath the edge of a glazed wall. Tiered roof wings sweep upward, forming a series of clerestories that shield the open floor plan from excessive sun exposure while presenting unobstructed views of the oceanfront during daytime and allowing stargazing at night. Remote-controlled fabric panels placed strategically over the glazing provide additional solar protection."

Wow.

[SHELLY]

Construction on the the Hilton House began in 1999. One reason, but not the only reason, it has taken so long to build is that eveything in this home, from the structural steel to the windows and doors are of a custome made one of a kind design. For an interesting look at the structural steel check out the photos of this home on arthurdyson.com.

If Hilton is as wealthy as everyone would like to believe, the reason this place isn't finished (now almost 10 years in the making) goes way beyond windows and doors.

It took only 5 years to build the Bellagio in Las Vegas--that was from the day of implosion of the old Dunes hotel in 1994 until the Bellagio opened its doors for business in 1998.

It has 36 stories, 3,026 rooms, and an 8 acre man-made lake with a $40 million dancing fountain with 1,200 nozzles, highlighted by 4,500 colored lights choreographed to shoot water up to 250 feet into the air.

It's apparent that Hilton doesn't have the wherewithal to get his beach house done--he's lacking something (money, skilled workers, sound construction, etc) and/or is benefiting in some personal/financial way by having this thing drag on and on and on.

.

.

[MissCritter]

Whatever, I want a tour when it's done.

[J-WS6]

Shelly made some good points. Maybe the house just isn't on the top of his priority list.

Regardless, I'd still love to see a night shot of the house...