Venetian Village - a unique, upscale shopping complex in Park Shore on the waterfront in Naples
Posted On 2007-01-29 , 3:42 PM
“ . . . for the fashion of this world passeth away.”
- 1 Corinthians 7:31
Something revolutionary happened in Naples in 1988. The luxurious neighborhood of Park Shore was very much still under development. The intersection of Park Shore Drive and Gulf Shore Boulevard was about to be transformed, and this change would elevate Park Shore – and Naples itself – to new heights. An enclave of waterfront shops, boutiques, and galleries were about to arrive. Ah, but this was not just a shopping complex. The sum of its parts was something more. When the first phase of the Villages at  Venetian Bay (can we just call it ‘Venetian Village’?) was completed in 1988, something special was in the air. When the second phase was finished in 1990, the transformation was complete. Park Shore, already established by that time as a world class waterfront address, now had a “walk to it all” quality of luxury lifestyle options to boast about. Fabulous luxury residential high rise buildings, such as Le Jardin, Provence, The Regent, and Brittany, cast their shadows upon Venetian Village from right across Gulf Shore Boulevard. The chemistry between the eye-catching Venetian Village and the luxury towers  surrounding it was immediate, and, well, magic.
Venetian Village is not simply a shopping complex, it is an experience.
The Venetian Village is as sound in concept as it is striking in its architectural quality. The developer (the Lutgert Companies) correctly chose to make Venetian Village a unique collection of merchants and service providers. Upscale, yes – but equally important, diverse, eclectic, and interesting. It was this kind of foresight, rare in its time, that ensured the charm of Venetian Village would stand the test of time. Venetian Village, suspended out over Venetian Bay, looks different, is different, and, thankfully, is an oasis free of the ubiquitous “chain stores.”
Thanks to the talents of the late local architect Walter Keller, the Mediterranean theme of the structures evokes its namesake in Italy, while simultaneously and quite skillfully highlighting the considerable natural assets and beauty of the bay and its environs. While there may be no gondolas gently traversing the bay,  the open air setting, charming courtyards, artfully crafted facades, and sub-tropical waterfront views are unmistakably reminiscent of Venice.
The Venetian Village is simply a fun place to visit. Locals, tourists, sophisticates, trend setters, artists, couples holding hands, and dreamers staring out over the bay – it is a local cultural magnet, as well as being a local icon. It gives this area not only an additional component of its personality and character, but also a sense of community.
The presence of Venetian Village adds immensely to the luxury lifestyle options of the residents in Park Shore. Living in Park Shore, you could throw your car keys into the Gulf, and not miss them for days on end. The possibilities to pamper yourself are endless – all within walking distance. Days spent under royal palms on the award winning beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Sunning by the resort style pool, with a favorite book. For boaters, you can purchase a slip just across Gulf Shore Boulevard by joining the Venetian Bay Yacht Club, and chase tarpon, with the salt water mist in your face. Take a walk upon the lighted promenade which snakes along the edge of the beach in Park Shore, amidst the tropical gardens and magnificently manicured parks. And, thanks to the Venetian Village, after a short stroll, you can enjoy fine and casual dining, visit exciting galleries, and shop until you drop.
There are over 60 shops, restaurants, and other merchants in Venetian Village, and it is not possible to review them all in this article. Please forgive us if we fail to mention your favorite establishment, as this is an overview not intended to be comprehensive. Dining is a treat here. If you are in the mood for a steak, how about Cloyde’s Steak and Lobster House? Perhaps a filet mignon, with a good and mature Claret. The beef here is certified prime, “dry aged to strict specifications.” If superb French cuisine is more your style, Marie-Michelle’s Restaurant on the Bay, is aptly described as “a little corner of paradise.” The ambience is pure French Riviera, including trademark blue umbrellas, which provide shade on the flowered outdoor terrace. Maxwell’s on the Bay is self described as “a blend of New England simplicity and the casual sophistication of Mediterranean waterfront dining.” All of  these restaurants have won numerous awards and accolades, and have cultivated a loyal following.
A popular gathering spot, and place to make a toast to old and new friends, is at the Upper Bar, of the Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar. The atmosphere is fun and casual, and the views are among the best in town. If you are entertaining at home, the place to buy the perfect announcement cards is at The Paper Merchant, where you can buy stationery by Crane, and hand illustrated and colored invitation cards from artist Karen Ballard of “Karen Cole Paper.” Need the perfect hairstyle for the event? The highly acclaimed Robert of Philadelphia salon, led by Robert DiLella and his talented team of hair designers and stylists, attracts a discriminating clientele.
Venetian Village is the home of some art galleries of distinction. The Irina Nevska Fine Art Gallery showcases the paintings of contemporary Russian artists. The Nevska Gallery is the “largest purveyor of contemporary Russian Art in the United States.” The Rick Moore Fine Arts Gallery proudly represents artists who have won numerous awards, and who have been commissioned by patrons around the world, such as Anthony J. Batten. Glass and bronze works are also featured here,  particularly the bronze pieces by David Pearson. The Tamarack Gallery has featured works by artists such as Key West native Sal Salinero, famous for his works of trompe l’oeil about the rainforest.
Men, if you have dutifully accompanied your spouse for several hours while she shopped at the Village (remember – “in sickness and in health,” etc.), why not splurge on yourself? Mondo Uomo is an authorized dealer of Brioni, Canali, and other upscale men’s clothing lines. There is a great shoe department there, including shoes by Santoni. There are a multitude of other boutiques and shops featuring formal and casual men’s and women’s apparel at the Village.
There are two notable exceptions – but highly necessary ones – to the absence of national franchise stores in the Venetian Village. One, is Sunglass Hut. Retina protection from UV rays this close to the equator is essential. So, of course, is looking cool. And stylish. This is Naples – perhaps you will buy a pair of designer shades by Versace. Yes, everyone will check for the medussa logo on the glasses, but they will do so discreetly. Exception number two, is Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream. Whether you prefer “Cherry Garcia” or “Phish food” Ice Cream could give away your age. You will say you are stopping for the grandchildren.
Contact the ImagineNaples real estate team to learn more about luxury lifestyles in Naples, and the most special waterfront homes and luxury high rise residences. Jeffrey Ahren and Douglas Sharpe can be reached toll free at 1 (800) 974-6352. We look forward to hearing from you.
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