The Fortress: A One-of-a-Kind Architectural Masterpiece in Orlando

Some properties are designed to impress.Others are built to endure.

The Fortress belongs to the latter.

Designed and constructed over seven years by world-renowned architectural firm HHCP for Harold Mertz, billionaire founder of Publishers Clearing House, this nearly 17,000-square-foot private compound is not simply a home—it is a legacy estate.

Throughout its history, The Fortress has hosted presidents, global dignitaries, private concerts, and high-level philanthropic gatherings, all within a setting of total privacy.

🌿 Absolute privacy in a natural sanctuary

Set on nearly 12 fully gated acres, the estate is approached via a quarter-mile tree-lined private drive, leading to a world entirely its own.

At its center lies a five-acre private lake, naturally spring-fed by Wekiva Springs State Park, surrounded by museum-quality grounds featuring:

• Imported European fountains

• Life-size bronze sculptures

• Curated statuary throughout the gardens

• Ornamental koi ponds

An environment of tranquility, elegance, and permanence.

🏛️ Architecture built for permanence

The main residence spans 14,623 square feet, constructed entirely of solid poured concrete, reflecting unmatched durability and security.

Architectural highlights include:

• Bulletproof glass

• Hand-plastered walls

• 25-foot soaring ceilings

• Graceful arches and curved nonlinear walls

• Signature fluted architectural textures

A massive custom bronze door opens to interiors finished in polished marble and terrazzo flooring, with brand-new floors in the main living areas and kitchen.

🛋️ Interior layout and iconic spaces

The residence offers:

• 7 bedrooms, each with a full ensuite bath

• Formal living and dining rooms

• Breakfast room

• Main kitchen with panoramic lake views

• Oversized island and pantry

• Separate fully equipped staff kitchen

Four bedrooms are located upstairs with the most commanding lake views, and three are downstairs.

A monumental circular atrium crowns the sculptural marble staircase—a process that took two full years to complete.

🎼 Bespoke luxury features

Additional highlights include:

• Two-story library convertible into a home theater

• Glass conservatory with Murano chandelier designed for a grand piano

• Elevator near the foyer

• Two authentic wood-burning fireplaces

• Custom Sherle Wagner bathrooms

• Hidden closets throughout

• Private bar adjacent to the piano room

🧘‍♂️ Private suites as personal retreats

The west wing primary suite features:

• Private Italian-inspired alfresco patio

• Adjacent private gym

• Full bathroom, sauna, and walk-in closet

Creating a fully self-contained wellness retreat.

The east wing suite enjoys its own Italian-inspired patio, reinforcing privacy and exclusivity.

🏡 Guest residences & resort-style amenities

The estate is completed by:

• Approx. 2,900 sqft guest and pool house with 2 bedrooms

• Independent staff quarters (approx. 1,000 sqft)

• 8-car garage with full bath, laundry, and storage

Resort-style amenities include:

• Pool and spa

• Professional tennis and pickleball court

• Hot tub

• Sandy beach access

• Multiple alfresco entertaining areas

📍 Prime location with complete discretion

Conveniently located near:

• Top-rated schools

• Leading hospitals

• Golf courses

• Elevated dining experiences

Offering effortless access to lifestyle amenities while preserving absolute privacy.

🗝️ A true legacy estate

The Fortress is not merely luxury real estate. It is an irreplaceable architectural statement, built to stand for the next century and beyond.

📩 Private showings by appointment only.