1309 catherine street

Nestled on the prestigious 1300 block of Catherine Street, this exquisite residence is wrapped in a commanding nine-foot concrete wall--an enduring guardian of its storied past. Once a horse stable in the late 1800s for the Lumley construction enterprise, the home unfolds as a captivating fusion of history and contemporary elegance. Founded by Thomas A. Lumley, born in 1813, the property's lineage speaks to Key West's early character: a tenacious merchant and patriarch who helped shape the town's fabric. By the late 1940s, it transitioned from Lumley ownership to a haven for equestrian pursuits, and in 1964, world-renowned artist Rene D'Haroncourt and his wife reimagined the space as a private artistic retreat. Their vision introduced refined 1960s art deco elements, marrying simplicity with sophistication. D'Haroncourt's distinguished career as the Director of the Museum of Modern Art and Governing Director of the Rockefeller Art Estate imbues the home with an artistic sensibility. Today's owners have thoughtfully preserved that early art deco charm while embracing modern livability. Inside, every detail reflects meticulous craftsmanship: Bertazzoni kitchen appliances for a chef's performance, Thermory Dragon Scale Shou Sugi Ban wood siding that delivers a striking, elemental texture, and Ming Green & Black marble that lends timeless elegance. Guci wallpaper adds subtle depth, while lighting by Richard Hutten, Bertjan Pot, and TAF Studio anchors the home in a curated world of design and illumination. This remarkable property invites discerning buyers to possess a unique slice of Key West's heritage--where the past and present coalesce in luxurious harmony. A private sanctuary that stands as both a tribute to its storied origins and a beacon of refined living, offering an unparalleled opportunity to own a beautifully crafted piece of history.