With its ‘gentleman’s room,’ private bar, and an aquarium-style space with a saltwater triangular fish tank – the home is one of the most exciting in Flordia – and one of the world’s best homes. Shaquille O’Neal, the retired NBA star and astute businessman, purchased the home in 1993 for $3.95 million. The estate became just one of the homes in his extensive collection of homes around the US. He also owned this resort-like home in California which sold earlier this year. Shaquille (also known as ‘Shaq’) first listed the home for $28 million before reducing the price to $16.5 million. However, the home recently sold for $17 million less than the original listing price. The 31,000 square foot customized mansion sits amid a gated golf community near Disney World and ESPN in Isleworth, Lake Butler. The large living space is a catalyst of living room ideas – from its decorative rug to its rusty-hued palette that creates a contrast against the blues of the surrounding water. The lake-side views continue throughout the property – throughout its chef’s kitchen to its formal dining room that is adjoined to the grand entryway. Beyond these conventional rooms, however, the mansion also features some more unorthodox spaces. The most noteworthy of these include a temperature-controlled, cedar-planked humidor, a wine storage room, a cinema, and a media room. There is also a full-size basketball court, because this is Shaquille O’Neal’s home, naturally. The property comes with 12 bedrooms, including the master wing that fuels our luxury bedroom ideas. This area includes a four-room closet, his-and-her baths, and a custom 15-foot round bed that overlooks the water. Meanwhile, the guest wing also includes its own ‘great room’ with another secret bar and five ensuite bedrooms. Plus, while the interiors are something to behold, the three-acre estate similarly offers water-front garden ideas. Stand-out features include a large swimming pool and a walkway to a private pier where you can set sail on Lake Butler. Benjamin Hillman with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty represented O’Neal. Rob Rahter with Stockworth Realty Group, represented the buyer. Photos courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com (opens in new tab).
