ALL THROUGH THE HOUSE—PALENCIA’S SEASON OF GIVING SOLE DESIGN FIRM DECORATES ONE OF FOUR HOLIDAY SHOWHOMES

St. Augustine, Fla. —More than 30 professional artists, interior designers and decorators from 21 local companies have donated their time and expertise to transform four model homes at Palencia into Holiday Showhomes.

The European Collection by ICI Homes is located in Palencia’s newest luxury neighborhood, Bella Terra.

Nestled among 2,350 acres along the Intracoastal Waterway off U.S. 1 between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Palencia is designed for 2,350 residences featuring a variety of housing options by lifestyle and price from the $200’s to more than $4 million, including new innovative Village Center live/work units, cottages, villas, condominiums, single-family and pristine estate homes and lots.

Michael Parrish and his creative team at Design Elements are the masterminds behind the Milan’s holiday makeover. He and Molly Payne of Zeal Interiors, who designed the holiday decor for the Castillo model, took on the challenge of designing an entire model home themselves. The remaining designers teamed up to outfit the Portofino and Versailles.

“Design Elements is very pleased to be participating in the transformation of the ICI Milan home,” said owner Michael Parrish. Design Elements provides floral arrangements, custom silk trees, greeneries and other home decorating ideas to both commercial and residential customers. It also carries lamps, mirrors, artwork, as well as unique accessories and furniture.

Showhomes visitors will see an array of these things throughout the Milan, which measures 3,992 square feet and features four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Three of those bedrooms and a game loft are located upstairs. A gathering room, dining room, guest room/study, owner’s suite and breakfast nook round out the downstairs.

Parrish’s plan called for ten Christmas trees, dozens of custom door swags, wreaths, garlands and other holiday greeneries. “We anticipate using thousands of items to adorn all of our trees,” he said.

Each of the Milan’s rooms will feature a theme such as a cozy and warm Colorado lodge or a whimsical retreat. The dining room will take on a very sophisticated look with elegant angels and other nativity décor. Meanwhile the outside carriage lights and front door will be illuminated with stunning greenery that will create an unprecedented curb appeal.

“The Showhomes are a source of inspiration for those who would like to find unique holiday decorations and other creative ideas that will help them transform their own homes into a holiday dream come true,” said Parrish.

Located within walking distance of Palencia Village, this new neighborhood with homes ranging from 2,400- to 3,944-square feet, introduces intricate architectural features including courtyard entryways, vaulted foyers, tiled roofs, wood and tile flooring and exterior balconies.

Standard features in Bella Terra include granite countertops, tile, custom crown molding, built-in cabinetry, extensive ceiling details, carriage-style garage doors, brick driveways and much more.

The European Collection will consist of 244 ENERGY STAR rated homes and will be available in various European elevation options including Mediterranean, Old World, Tuscan and French Country.

As part of Palencia’s Season of Giving, four area charities—Builder’s Care, Trinity Rescue Mission’s Women and Children’s Center, the St. Francis House and the Jacksonville Humane Society will benefit from the six-week-long event.

The doors to the Holiday Showhomes are open through Dec. 15. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., extended until 8 p.m. on Thursdays, and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Golfers from around the First Coast will have their chance to play Palencia’s private championship golf club, a unique and intriguing course designed by Arthur Hills. A tournament is scheduled for Dec. 3 with a 12-noon shotgun.

On Dec. 8, Palencia is teaming with 1st Place Sports for a 5K Jingle Bell run throughout the award winning, master planned community.

In lieu of admission to the Holiday Showhomes, Palencia will collect unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items. Other related events will be priced accordingly and all proceeds will benefit the above named charities.

For more information on the Holiday Showhomes, please call Palencia, (904) 810-0500.