The Polly Earl award, named after the late executive director of the Preservation Foundation of Palm beach, awards a Palm Beach property owner for outstanding service to the preservation of historic Palm Beach homes. 

At the conclusion of the annual trustees meeting Lisa and Claes Wahlestedt were awarded this years Earl Award for their property on Australian Avenue.

The Wahlestedts landmarked historical home is one of the oldest homes on the island.  Its located within the original Royal Park Addition neighborhood, originally platted in 1911 by Cap Dimick, Palm Beach’s first mayor. This area predates Town Hall.

The couple purchased the home in 2004 in pretty shabby condition. Taking careful measures to update the home without destroying its historic appearance the Wahlestedts expanded the home by about 1000 sq. ft. creating a new kitchen and family-dining area. Otherwise the floor plan did not change.