Historic 'Brightleaf' Estate on Snell Isle Lists for $12.5 Million

The legacy estate has been masterfully reimagined with modern design while preserving its architectural integrity.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:05am

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A high-contrast, brightly colored silkscreen print of a decorative door handle or window frame, repeated in a grid pattern to create a modern pop art representation of a historic home's architectural details.A historic estate on Snell Isle in St. Petersburg, Florida, has been meticulously reimagined to bridge its architectural legacy with contemporary luxury.St. Petersburg Today

Brightleaf, a historic estate on Snell Isle in St. Petersburg, Florida, has entered the market for $12.5 million. Originally conceived in 1925 by the celebrated firm Kiehnel & Elliott and constructed by master builder S.V. Schooley, the residence has undergone a meticulous four-year transformation that has reclassified it as new construction while preserving its architectural integrity.

Why it matters

Snell Isle is one of St. Petersburg's most distinguished enclaves, known for its architectural heritage and proximity to downtown. The listing of Brightleaf, a rare example of a historic estate that has been modernized without losing its original character, highlights the continued appeal of this exclusive neighborhood.

The details

Following a comprehensive renovation led by principal design architect Greg Jones and builder Carmine Pici, Brightleaf has been reconstructed from the structure outward, introducing a new level of precision and craftsmanship while preserving the home's architectural integrity. Interiors by Doxa Home embody a refined sophistication, with large-format Turkish limestone and rift-cut white oak establishing a cohesive, understated palette. Expansive bifold openings frame the transition to the estate's private grounds, which feature a zero-edge infinity pool and a fully reimagined landscape design by renowned landscape architect Michael Gilkey.

  • Brightleaf was originally conceived in 1925 by the firm Kiehnel & Elliott and constructed by master builder S.V. Schooley.
  • The residence underwent a meticulous four-year transformation that was completed in 2024, reclassifying it as new construction.

The players

Kiehnel & Elliott

The celebrated architectural firm that originally conceived Brightleaf in 1925.

S.V. Schooley

The master builder who constructed the original Brightleaf estate in 1925.

Greg Jones

The principal design architect who led the four-year transformation of Brightleaf.

Carmine Pici

The builder of Tom Pici and Son who worked on the Brightleaf renovation.

Michael Gilkey

The renowned landscape architect who redesigned the grounds of the Brightleaf estate.

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What they’re saying

“Snell Isle continues to stand apart as one of St. Petersburg's most distinguished enclaves, where architectural heritage and proximity to downtown define its enduring appeal.”

— Robyn Gunn, Global real estate advisor with Premier Sotheby's International Realty

“Brightleaf represents an extraordinary opportunity to own a residence that honors its 1925 origins while delivering a level of design and execution rarely seen in the market today.”

— Robyn Gunn, Global real estate advisor with Premier Sotheby's International Realty

What’s next

The historic Brightleaf estate is now listed for sale with Premier Sotheby's International Realty for $12.5 million.

The takeaway

The transformation of Brightleaf showcases how historic homes can be reimagined with modern design while preserving their architectural integrity, making them highly desirable in exclusive neighborhoods like Snell Isle that value both heritage and contemporary luxury.