Mark Schmidt exemplifies the term “Renaissance man,” weaving his diverse talents and interests into a career marked by creativity, innovation, and a deep appreciation for beauty. His journey began in the art world, where his keen eye and entrepreneurial spirit led to a patented process for printing on marble tiles and subsequently launching Studio Vertu. Initially based in Cincinnati’s historic Exchange Building, the business flourished with an astounding 17 million tiles sold worldwide.
Two decades ago, Mark embarked on a quest for a secluded, tranquil retreat that balanced privacy with accessibility. His search brought him to an historic stone house perched on a steep hillside in Covington, KY. The property, originally constructed in the mid-19th century, was then acquired by Benedictine monks in 1877 and christened Monte Cassino in homage to their Italian abbey.
Over the past 15 years, Mark and his wife transformed this hidden gem with both vision and dedication. Today, the historic estate features a charming bed and breakfast housed in the old summer kitchen, a cozy tasting room and a small museum brimming with artifacts which serves as a testament to the monks’ legacy while preserving a unique chapter of the property’s history. Mark and Debbie’s journey now leads them to the point where their lifestyle calls for simplicity and editing. This sale reflects their multifaceted talents and presents the unique opportunity to shop their curated collection.
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