Naples Park Shore History

Back in the '60s Park Shore didn’t exist, at least not in the way we know it now. Discover the story of how the luxury condominiums were built and the amazing lifestyle they provide to people who purchase these beautiful condo homes in Naples, Florida. From a parcel of land that captured one man’s vision, to the gorgeous community it is today, there’s a lot of history and milestone moments in the development of Park Shore.

In 1964, when Raymond L. Lutgert purchased an undeveloped parcel of land in Naples, Florida, he alone envisioned the potential of the 760 acres bordered on the west by a mile and a quarter of pristine Gulf beach and on the east by U.S. Highway 41, the primary north-south route through Southwest Florida.

During the next four years, Lutgert would lead a team of architects, engineers and land planners in the creation of a landmark plan, establishing not only the first planned unit development district in Collier County but also one of the first in the State of Florida.

The singular plan for the Gulf-front section of Park Shore created Venetian Bay, a navigable body of water separating the mainland portion of Park Shore from the Gulf-front community; establishing a serpentine design that artfully arranges 29 land parcels amidst five beachside parks, four open-space commons, and a meandering beach promenade; and designed a natural dune system that has established a prestigious community of homesites and pioneered underground utility and storm water systems in Naples. The result of these collective creations was a masterwork not only in its environmental aspects. The Park Shore plan, both in concept and in application, was, in fact so sound that it served as a model for future development.

From 1970 to 1983, the Lutgert Companies began to build what we now know today as Park Shore. Their first Florida condominium was Colony Gardens; a unique combination of mid-rise apartments and townhomes with private docks on the bay. One year later, the company would introduce Horizon House, the first indicator of what would become the Lutgert Companies’ trademark. Horizon House was the tallest and most luxurious building of its time.

In 1976, the final phase of the Venetian Villas was completed. Easily the most sketched, painted and photographed buildings in Naples, Venetian Villas was created by Raymond L. Lutgert as a tribute to the Mediterranean-styled architecture. Representing a significant architectural and permitting achievement, each of the villas is actually built over the water. Venetian Villas creates an incomparable Venetian ambiance not only for its residents, but also for all Neapolitans.

Twelve years later, one of the most unique and exquisite shopping areas would be introduced. Heralded for its creative design, a gorgeous waterfront setting and successful retail shops, the Village on Venetian Bay reflects a classic Mediterranean theme with meandering terra cotta walkways, quaint courtyards, Venetian-style facades and a relaxed bayside ambiance. Initially opening in 1988 with 40 exclusive specialty shops, restaurants and galleries, The Village experience was enhanced in 1990 with the introduction of a successful second phase including 20 handpicked fashion boutiques, galleries, and waterfront restaurants. Today, the ‘Venetian Village brings a true European feel to a city that rivals its sister in Italy. If you are looking for a truly unique shopping experience in a setting that is like no other, visit the Village on Venetian Bay and see for yourself what true elegance is about.

Twenty years after the initial ground breaking of the first residential building in Park Shore, The Vistas was created. The Vistas site offered the design team the potential to present spectacular views not only from each individual residence, but also from every building amenity. Following the Vistas in 1990 was Le Parc, and the Enclave in 1991.

Inspired by Raymond and Scott Lutgert’s desire to blend the assets of a private beach estate with the convenience and privacy of high-rise living, Enclave introduced the innovative concept of a single, spectacular residence on each floor. The Enclave continues to be one of the Lutgerts’ ultimate achievements.

By the mid ’90s, Park Shore was becoming known as one of the most premier places in Southwest Florida. With the addition of Park Tower in 1994, Venetian Tower in 1995, and Le Rivage, residents of Naples were beginning to choose from a wide array of luxury lifestyles. With the opening of the Village on Venetian Bay, people from all over the area and the country began coming to Park Shore for exquisite dining and unique shopping excursions.

Today, Park Shore and the hundreds of amenities that come along with it continue to attract people from all over the world. Through their vision, innovation and commitment to excellence, the Lutgert Companies has created a tropical paradise.