One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. At first blush, you might think you’ve landed in Florida’s version of Downton Abbey. Think “old-world elegance,” think “rambling estate,” think “palatial”—and you still won’t capture the exquisiteness of this mansion on over 2 acres of lakefront land in Thonotosassa. Viewing from the air, you’re struck by alternating angles of multiple roofs covered in barrel tile atop rounded towers. Gazing from ground level, you’re carried along flagstone walkways flanked by sculpted hedges to columned porticos. From every point you’re entranced by the 880-acre freshwater, spring-fed Lake Thonotosassa. Amazingly, this 6-bedroom, 6.5 bath home is just 30 minutes from Tampa International, 20 min from downtown Tampa and 45 min from top beaches. Designed and built by Chuck Fowke of Valrico-based Homes of John C. Fowke Inc., the almost 7,500 SF home reflects myriad rustic, sun-baked Tuscan influences. Some 11,000 square feet under roof includes lanai, 4-car garage and balconies. The home is situated in the gated and guard-staffed Stonelake Ranch-Luxury Lakefront Community, with its Lakeside Lodge with bar, gym, fireplace, tennis and community boat ramp. Equestrian and walking paths run throughout the community. But you may never want to leave home, where your infinity spillover pool (saltwater and heated) overlooks the lake, and where you’ll enjoy the firepit and spa. The outdoor kitchen features Alfresco Grill, built-in ice maker, refrigerator and more. An outdoor fireplace adds ambiance to the conversation area, complete with entertainment set-up that includes speakers and 2 TV wall mounts. Steps down the pathway is a second firepit area among the oaks and Spanish moss – this pathway eventually leads to your 7,500-lb boat lift – continue the party on the lake! Equally breathtaking is the home’s interior. The curves, angles and altitudes of the architecture are remarkable, starting with the dramatic foyer and sweeping staircase. Signs of opulence are everywhere, as in the custom study wood door by La Puerta Originals. The home’s assets include a wine cellar, bonus room, theater room with seating for 10, bar area with U-line wine cooler and icemaker, and 6th bedroom set up as a “dance room” with mirrors and hardwood floors. In the kitchen, gleaming seamless granite grabs attention. The kitchen sports two-toned custom Amoroso cabinets and travertine countertops. The area opens to the breakfast nook, affording views of the pool and surrounding greenery. Tuscan touches include the range hood and interior columns made by Italian Cast Stone, which also created the exterior railings. A Viking 6-burner gas stove with a warming and convection oven complements a microwave convection roast, broil and bake. Make your coffee, cappuccino or espresso in the Miele with frother. A Bosch dishwasher puts a premium on silent operation. Consider as well the Control4 Home Automation and Smart Home Control system - Control4 lets you design a smart home that integrates motion sensors, voice control, elegant keypads, and more, and is compatible with Siri, Google Home and Alexa. A good place to close this tour is in the ground-floor master suite, which overlooks the pool and water views. The jacuzzi tub enables a relaxing soak, while the 2-person shower features Kohler 6-zone massage showerheads. Dual sinks and walk-in closets make this area a homeowner’s favorite – and the adjacent sitting area is just one more touch that bespeaks indescribable elegance.