Historic Merrywood Estate Saved From Demolition After Winter Park Commission Vote

After months of uncertainty and the threat of demolition, most of Winter Park’s historic Merrywood estate will be saved. The Winter Park City Commission voted 4-1 on Wednesday, November 11, to approve a compromise allowing the nearly four-acre lakefront property at 1020 Palmer Avenue to be split into two lots while preserving most of the James Gamble Rogers II-designed home. As first reported by Winter Park Voice, the agreement protects approximately 6,200 square feet of the 7,300-square-foot residence, including much of its historic facade. A deed restriction will carry the preservation requirements to future owners. Steve and Jenny Lockwood, who purchased the property for $15 million in August, plan to renovate the home, adding a primary suite and three-car garage while removing portions of the original structure. A business partner reportedly plans to purchase the second lot and build another home. The late-1930s estate appeared headed for demolition earlier this year, b