History

Legacy — A Presidential Waterfront Retreat

In 1969, President Richard Nixon acquired this extraordinary waterfront estate on Key Biscayne, establishing it as his private presidential retreat, later known as the “Winter White House.” Set along the open waters of Biscayne Bay, the property became a discreet yet influential extension of the presidency during a pivotal era in American history.
 
World leaders and dignitaries arrived via helicopter to the estate’s private landing helipad constructed by the United States Department of Defense transforming the residence into a secure and strategic setting for high-level meetings and global dialogue. The surrounding shoreline was ultimately named Nixon Beach, further embedding the estate into the fabric of the island.
 
Today, that same presidential helipad remains as an enduring artifact of a time when the property stood at the intersection of political power, diplomacy, history, and global influence.
 

1982–1983 — A Cinematic Icon

In the early 1980s, this extraordinary estate was selected as the primary filming location for Scarface, where it was immortalized as the residence of Frank Lopez. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Biscayne Bay, the property’s striking architecture, waterfront presence, and unmistakable design made it the perfect setting for one of cinema’s most iconic films. Since its release, Scarface has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon widely regarded as one of the most influential and enduring films, forever linking the estate to a legacy that transcends real estate and enters the realm of cinematic legend.
 
What sets this residence apart is the remarkable preservation of its original architectural elements, many of which remain exactly as they appeared on screen. Most notably, the iconic glass elevator featured in the unforgettable scene with Michelle Pfeiffer continues to serve as both a functional design feature and a powerful cultural artifact. These preserved details elevate the home beyond a filming location, transforming it into a rare and authentic piece of cinematic provenance, an offering seldom found in properties of this caliber.
 
The estate’s presence in popular culture extended beyond the silver screen, with appearances in the acclaimed television series Miami Vice, further reinforcing its status as a recognizable and celebrated landmark.
 
Over time, the property has come to embody a unique intersection of architecture, storytelling, and cultural identity recognized not only for its design and scale, but for its enduring role in shaping Miami’s visual and cultural narrative.
 
Today, the estate stands as one of the most iconic residential properties in South Florida offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of cinematic and cultural history that continues to resonate across generations.