A Summer Weekend to Remember

By Brigitte Sinoradzki

The beginning of summer is around the corner. Time to start planning a weekend getaway to one of these classic and iconic destinations!

The Breakers Hotel, Palm Beach Island

The Breakers, grand in scale and appearance, is the ultimate luxury Palm Beach resort. They have something for everyone: from a family trip spent at their luxurious pool and gorgeous beach, to a girl’s weekend filled with fine dining and top of the line spa treatments, or a guy’s golfing get together. There is plenty to do in and around the hotel. If fitness is your thing, you can take a run on the beach, visit the gym at the Breakers, or take a barre or private pilates class with world-renowned instructors down the street at Labarre.

Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego

The legendary Coronado Hotel sits on one of the most beautiful beaches in San Diego, on the exclusive Coronado Island, with views so expansive you can actually see all the way to Mexico. Enjoy sunsets at their patio bar, beach bonfires in the cool SoCal breeze, or learn to surf in nearby La Jolla. Walking through the grounds at Coronado is an experience within itself, with plenty of fine dining options and high end boutiques. And, if you are into the more spooky side of things, this hotel is consistently ranked as one of the most haunted spots in Southern California.

The Mark, NYC

There is no shortage of luxurious hotels in NYC. The Mark hotel stands out as being a favorite of the fashion elite for the Met Gala, as well as John F. Kennedy Jr.’s getaway spot when he needed time to himself. Located on the upper east side, The Mark overlooks Central Park, where you can swing by the Loeb BoatHouse for some food, drinks, and views. Fine dining and shopping is just steps away on Manhattan’s infamous Madison Avenue. A quick stroll will take you to The Metropolitan Museum. Avoid the crowds of time square at this quietly set, extravagant hotel.

May 18, 2022 Leave a comment

Florence | Italy

with:Unique Homes Staff

Overlooking picturesque Tuscan landscapes, the historic medieval Torre Del Castellano is recognized as a classic example of authentic Tuscan architecture as well as one of the most outstanding and well-known castles in the region.

Presenting a unique potential for transformation to an opulent estate, upscale boutique hotel or exclusive business enterprise, it features 23 rooms, 9 bedrooms and 7 baths, a separate chapel, viewing tower, enclosed courtyard for entertaining and events, and an expansive olive oil cellar on approximately 22 acres, just 15 miles from Florence.

See more: www.torredelcastellano.com

9 bedrooms, 7 baths | E10,000,000
Jean Mastagni | DRE #00479256
T. 415.310.7386 | jeanlmastagni@gmail.com
www.jeanmastagni.com | Coldwell Banker Realty

May 16, 2022 Leave a comment

Prague – A Journey To the Past

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Brigitte Sinoradzki

On every person’s bucket list should be a visit to Prague. Located in the heart of Europe, the capital of the Czech Republic produces architectural awe to all visitors. With functioning structures dating back centuries, a stroll through Prague will make you feel like you fell back to a time where knights on horseback tore through the winding streets.

A Walk Fit for a King

One of the most classic things to do when you visit Prague is to take a stroll from Old Town Square, across the majestic Charles Bridge, and up to the Prague Castle. Taking in the views as you go, A must-see is the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square. The clock is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world, having been erected in 1410. It is also the oldest known clock still in operation today. Studying the details on the clock is fascinating for old and young alike.

Walking along through the el-fresco dining lined streets, you’ll find your way to the Vltava River, which flows through the center of Prague, neatly dividing it into East and West. The Charles Bridge is the main bridge that connects the two sides, although there are many others — though less ornate and with less historical significance. Construction on this bridge started in 1357 and it was completed in the 15th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is decorated by 30 baroque-style statues of various saints, seemingly keeping an eye on the people crossing over the bridge.

On the west side of the bridge, you’ll find many magical and historical stops on the walk to the Prague Castle. As you climb higher up the hill, you’ll find more and more panoramic views of Prague’s ancient skyline. Photo opportunities abound!

The gothic structure that is the Prague Castle sits intimidatingly on the highest point overlooking the rest of Prague. With steep arches and gargoyles keeping watch, the structure is mesmerizing both inside and out. Inside the castle, you will find beautiful stained glass windows, statues, and a ceiling so high it’s impossible to fathom how it was built in 870 without the use of modern construction techniques.

Drinking and Dining for Everyone

The Czech Republic gives Ireland a run for its money when it comes to beer drinking. It is actually the number one beer drinking country per capita. Known for deliciously crafted beer, you’ll find a brewery on nearly every street you turn on. A beer enthusiasts dream come true, Prague is known for its delicious pilsners.

Insider tip: “Pivo” is how you say beer in Czech, and Staropramen is one of the best local brews.

After all that walking and, perhaps, beer, it’s important to take note of the food in Prague. The Czech Republic is infamous for heavy stews like goulash and a dish offered in nearly every restaurant, “svickova”, which is delectable cuts of meat served with dumplings and gravy. Smoked meats of every type are abundant, and you’ll be able to find the butcher by simply following your nose.

On the lighter side, there are so many different types of cuisines offered in Prague. In the warmer months, the streets are lined with outdoor dining. Another tip is to seek out Italian restaurants. Most of these restaurants are opened by Italians who have moved to Prague, and the food is fresh, authentic, and fit for even the most particular palate. From salads to thin-crust pizza and pasta dishes, you can’t go wrong.

The capital city of the Czech Republic truly has something for everyone. It is a lively city — you’ll find as much to do at 3am as you will at noon. Not to be missed, make sure that Prague makes it onto your list of places to visit.

May 9, 2022 Leave a comment

Astrotourism

with:Unique Homes Staff

By Marlene Ridgeway

Though the privately funded commercial space age has created significant waves, the night sky has captured human interest long before the advent of space tourism. New technologies are making the idea of space — once inaccessible and foreign — more attainable, and now the hospitality industry is striving to offer elements of “astrotourism” for guests. One example is the Montage Healdsburg in California.

“It is not surprising to see the interest in exploring the universe is taking hold,” says Jennifer Chiesa, the director of public relations at Montage Healdsburg. “While we can’t offer to take our guests to space directly, we can help encourage the interest in astronomy and hopefully bring faraway galaxies just a little bit closer to all of us here in Healdsburg.”

What is Astrotourism?

Astronomy has met the tourism industry to create the idea of astrotourism. According to Wendy Altschuler, a contributor at Forbes, astrotourism is “purposely traveling to nature-rich destinations that experience less light pollution,” which allows travelers to view the stars more easily. Visiting observatories and chasing dark-sky certified parks are all part of this growing industry.

For those interested in the mysteries of the night sky, there are elaborate and simple ways to experience these wonders.

From stargazing on paddleboards and global partnerships with private aviation, to at-home observation stations, there’s more than one way to glimpse the marvels of the night sky.

Astrotourism Adventures

There’s something about the night sky that evokes a sense of wonder. Psyched Paddleboarding, which is based on the Isle of Anglesey in Northern Wales, has been offering guided night tours for over seven years now. “Our customers love being guided by a magical moonlight and starry sky for an adventure after dark,” says the founder, Sian Sykes.

Named by The Guardian as one of the Top 12 best nighttime activities in the United Kingdom, paddleboarders have been fortunate enough to see up to 25 shooting stars while floating on the water. Paddleboarding and other types of boating at night are an excellent ways to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with history and nature.

For other nighttime adventures, the Vista Series houseboats are the perfect way to explore the Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota. The park recently earned the coveted International Dark Sky Association’s dark-sky park certification, which makes stargazing and views of the Milky Way simple. Bordering Saudi Arabia, Qatar’s Desert is “a perfect spot for astronomy enthusiasts to observe the dark and starry skies,” says Berthold Trenkel, the chief operating officer of Qatar National Tourism Council about the exclusive astrotourism experiences that have been organized in partnership with Gulf Adventures. The options range from stargazing with an experienced astronomer, camel safaris by moonlight, and other excursions that involve deep exploration of the skies.

Starry Destinations

The Montage Healdsburg’s exclusive package, The Sky’s the Limit, was articulately designed as an opportunity for guests to engage with nature and experience the splendors of the starry sky. “We thought getting outside in the fresh air, exploring, and looking upwards at the vast universe seemed like a fun and educational activity that the whole family could enjoy together,” explains Chiesa. “The package brings together the best of the valley and beyond to include: private roundtrip flights, and airport transfers from anywhere in the United States with leading global private aviation company, Jet Edge.”

With ease, guests can book two nights in the resort’s luxury guesthouse, taking advantage of the mountain and vineyard views with minimal ambient light — all of which makes for prime stargazing and exploring the night sky with your own telescope, according to Chiesa. “There’s also a professional photography session with award-winning astrophotographer Rachid Dahnoun, whose specialty includes nighttime photography, and access to the Robert Ferguson Museum and observatory.”

More and more resorts and hotels around the world are offering elements of astrotourism as interest rises. The Leobo Private Reserve in South Africa offers the Waterberg Observatory, which is part of the main house, and astronomy tours with telescopes and space suits. Or enthusiasts can book a room at The Torridon, in the Northwestern Highlands of Scotland, for an incredible stargazing experience. The luxury boutique resort is considered one of the darkest places on earth and is unparalleled when it comes to stargazing.

Guests can enjoy excursions, presentations, and the chance to meet astronomer Stephen Mackintosh.

Astronomy At Home

Although the subject of interest is lightyears away, new technology has simplified astronomical adventures, even from the comfort and safety of your home. “With the current health crisis that has shaken the world, sales of astronomical instruments have never been stronger,” says Cyril Dupuy, founder of Vaonis. The company was created in France in 2016, and the hope was to revolutionize the world of amateur astronomy, by making it accessible to all.

“There’s a desire for a return to nature. Individuals have a longing to escape, in complete safety.” Stellina and Vespera are two observation stations that are small but powerful at-home devices for amateur astronomers.

Paired with an easy-to-use app, users do not need a deep knowledge of astronomy or experience with stargazing to partake. Stellina and Vespera will allow users to observe and explore on their devices, and within minutes they can unveil the hidden wonders of the night sky.

April 22, 2022 Leave a comment

The Legends of Ultimate Homes

with:Camilla McLaughlin

The Manor from Unique Homes 2017 Ultimate issue.

Photo courtesy Hilton & Hyland.

As we mark the 17th “Ultimate” edition of Unique Homes, we look back at the exceptional properties and agents who have been a part of the annual celebration of the most expensive real estate in the U.S.

Over the 50 years since the first issue of Unique Homes rolled off the presses, countless estates have graced our cover. Hundreds have captured a top position on Ultimate Homes’ list of the most expensive, but only a very few are real estate legends. Trackback through record-setting sales and property listings, and a handful of properties filter to the top, including an equally select cadre of real estate agents.

What destines a property for legendary status? Rarity, provenance, architecture, land and location all play a role. “We have represented and sold many properties that are above and beyond, but what makes them legendary is the architecture and the history of the property, including notable prior owners, location, and the property amenities that set the bar for other luxury properties,” explains Judy Zeder, a member of the Jills Zeder Group (along with Jill Eber and Jill Hertzberg) with Coldwell Banker Realty in Miami.

“What truly makes an incredible luxury property is that it’s something that someone else would never have. It’s not just another house with a different material feature,” shares Shari Chase, founder of Chase International Real Estate in the Lake Tahoe/Reno region. “Rarity is huge,” she says, as is “not being bumper to bumper with a lot of mega mansions that are exactly the same.”

The 2016 sale of the Playboy Mansion cracked the $100 million benchmark in L.A.

Photo by Jim Bartsch.

Owlwood, Pickfair, Le Belvedere, Greenacres and Chartwell: the list of legendary properties that Joyce Rey, who heads Coldwell Banker Global Luxury’s division for Southern California, has sold is only surpassed by the number of accolades she has received over her more than 40-year career. Her sales have achieved price records multiple times, sometimes for the same property. In 1976, she sold the Sonny and Cher mansion for $1.2 million, a record at the time. Two years later, she sold it again for $4.2 million, which surpassed all other prices, setting a new high in the U.S. and worldwide. “It was a really big deal,” she says. “It changed the marketplace.”

The storied history of this property, which was renamed Owlwood to honor owls living in the estate’s towering trees, continues to the present day. The acquisition of neighboring properties and additional acreage over the years enhanced the value. Last offered for sale well above $100 million, it appeared on Unique Homes’ Ultimate list last year at $115 million. It sold in December in an off-market transaction for a reported $88 million.

Once dubbed “the Crown Jewel of Beverly Hills,” Owlwood’s resume includes a number of other high-profile names and celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe.

Ultimate Manhattan? The Tommy Hilfiger penthouse at The Plaza in New York City graced the cover of Ultimate Homes in 2014.

Casa Casuarina, seen here on the Unique Homes Fall 2012 cover, was the home of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace.

Having a much-loved celebrity often adds to the cachet of a property. “Americans love celebrities,” says Jill Eber. “When a celebrity is comfortable using their name in connection with a property, it really makes a difference. Every home comes with a story and a celebrity’s story just makes it more interesting. A lot of properties are sold by very successful business people and the properties are just gorgeous, but when a home is sold by a celebrity or athlete, buyers are curious and sometimes they are attracted to that cache.”

Few celebrity homes received as much buzz as the Miami Beach mansion owned by the late Gianni Versace. “Everything about the Versace property, known as Casa Casuarina, was fun and exciting,” says Jill Hertzberg, who, along with Eber, sold the property. “It was a totally iconic property known worldwide. Every room was different with the most extraordinary mosaic tile designs throughout. The property was built for fun and entertainment and the buyers who purchased it just loved it! They all jumped into the pool on the day they got it. Standing in front of the mansion with reporters from all over the world is something I will always remember.”

Among our Ultimates, few have generated as much interest as The Manor, dubbed The Spelling Manor when it came to market in 2009 at an unprecedented price of $150 million, eventually selling for a reported $85 million in 2011. The buyer, Petra Ecclestone, daughter of Formula One billionaire Bernie Ecclestone, embarked on an extensive remodel, eventually bringing the estate back on the market in 2016 at $200 million. The 2019 sale price, $119.7 million, set a new, but short-lived, record for Los Angeles. Only a few months later, another legendary property, Chartwell, sold for a reported $150 million, achieving a new benchmark.

Designed by Sumner Spaulding in 1933, Chartwell, like several other legends, including the Manor, was inspired by French chateaus. Located on 10 acres in Bel Air and surrounded by pristine gardens, it ticks off all the attributes of a legendary estate. Although it is notable for the highest list price, $350 million, in 2017, few other mansions are as familiar to so many. Featured on the 1960s sitcom, The Beverly Hillbillies, it was home to the Clampetts.

It’s worth noting the estate is actually in Bel Air. The Bel Air Hillbillies might not have been as catchy a title as the Beverly Hillbillies, says Gary Gold, with Hilton & Hyland, one of the agents listing the property. Using a home at one address, but identifying it as being in another location in films and television is not unusual, according to Gold.

Chartwell was listed by a team of agents including Rey and Jade Mills with Coldwell Banker Realty, and Gold and Jeff Hyland with Hilton & Hyland. When prices breach $100 million, it’s not uncommon to have multiple brokerages marketing the property.

“These big sales have many layers of complexity. It can be a trust, a bankruptcy or a probate, and everyone at this level is well represented. And at $100 million, no one is flexible,” explains Gold. Often the team of agents and brokers will divide the tasks depending on their expertise. Gold says he is always 100-percent committed to getting the deal done.

Having brokered the sale of the Playboy Mansion, Gold jokingly refers to himself as the “Roger Bannister of luxury real estate.” Like Bannister’s one-minute mile, the Playboy Mansion smashed the $100 million ceiling in L.A. and opened the door to a number of legendary estates trading at or over $100 million, including Chartwell and The Manor.

“These types of mansions usually come on the market once in a blue moon, once a decade, but recently a number have traded in the last couple of years,” Gold shares.

When it came on the market, the Playboy Mansion received lots of media coverage. Still, when Jade Mills, who represented the buyer, initially saw the property, she wasn’t expecting to find a zoo. The property had “been talked about, but not really the zoo and the peacocks and everything that was there,” she says.

“When I first went there, there were all of the animals, monkeys, peacocks were all over the property — I just thought that it was so amazing that right in the middle of Holmby Hills, you had all those fabulous animals. So, it was just fun to see, and to see the grotto.”

Gold says the number of birds increased over time as local avians decided it was a great place to call home and joined the menagerie.

Another interesting tidbit was an abundance of pushbuttons in this home, sort of a smart home before the era of home tech. For example, push a button and the bed would turn around. The grotto had an array of buttons, all glowing red, and a phone from which you could dial up whatever music you wanted

Foundation of Value

But for legends, it is the amount of land or an impossible-to-replicate location that usually sets them apart. A majority occupy sizable parcels, whether it’s hundreds of acres like Tranquility in Tahoe, or a dozen or less in Bel Air or Holmby Hills. The exception are places such as Malibu, where a setting on the beach is more prized and rarer than acreage.

“Regardless of the condition — like new, falling down or anything in between — each owner puts their heart and soul into these homes,” shares Robert Kinlin, co-owner of Robert Paul Properties, who works with some of the most expensive in Boston and on the Cape. “But a lot of times, people are buying the land and the feeling it evokes when they’re outside walking the property, because you can’t change the land, but you can change the house.”

“The biggest thing you can have with a beautiful estate is Mother Nature,” adds Shari Chase.

When Chase founded her brokerage in 1986, the word “luxury” really wasn’t part of the vocabulary. Instead, she says, “we talked about estates and extraordinary estates, and her tagline was Exceptional Properties for Exceptional People. “I wasn’t going to bother with just any kind of real estate. I only wanted the best, and whether I had one or two or three sales a year, it didn’t matter. I mean, as long as they were fantastic. I think the very first sale was lakefront.” Early on, Chase was involved in what she describes as “the most extraordinary sale we ever had at Tahoe,” the Thunderbird Lodge at a record $50 million. “It held the price record in the entire nation for over 8 years.”

Not often are newly constructed homes destined to become legendary, but Le Belvedere, sited on over 2 acres in Bel Air overlooking the city with a romantic landscape that includes a swan pond, rose gardens and a 280-degree panorama of city lights, is the exception. Over-the-top features such as opulent materials, a ballroom seating 200, a media room seating 50, and a 500-bottle wine cellar, were exceptional when it came on the market in 2009, but the way every detail is executed, the stateliness of the architecture and the sense of harmony from all facets working in perfect sync pushes it from a “stellar property” to a legendary estate.

Le Belvedere, like Tranquility, is also exceptional for its amenities. At that time, shares Rey, “people weren’t building so many of those major theaters. Before that, only those in the industry had large screening rooms.

Rey was involved in the sale of Le Belvedere for $50 million — the highest in the U.S. in 2010 –— and again in 2018 for $56 million.

Amenity Wars

In recent years, there have been a number of newly built for-sale trophy homes, some with list prices stretching current benchmarks. What sets these properties apart is the number of over-the-top features, including curated art installations, stocked wine bars, car collections, an onsite staff and even a helipad. The objective — to include everything someone might want in a home — is aligned with the motives behind the inclusion of extensive amenities in classic estates.

Legendary Redos

No matter how exquisite a property, new owners have a penchant to put their own stamp on it. “I just think that it’s amusing that people must make even, you know, the most expensive, beautiful home — they must make it their own. So sometimes it’s just been remodeled, and then torn completely apart. And they start over,” shares Mills, who brokered the 2019 sale of The Manor. And this practice is not limited to prime estates. Instead, it reaches across the entire price spectrum, whether a house is $1 million or a $100 million.

Few other homes on our annual list have received as much attention as this estate. “The Manor was sort of like no other,” recalls Mills. With 123 rooms and more square footage than the White House, it is one of the largest in Los Angeles. Size and prices generated publicity, but it was the extensive amenities, including gift-wrapping rooms, vast closets, a barber shop, hair salon, bowling alley and nightclub that captured the public’s fancy. There aren’t as many closets as large as the one in the master,” Mills ventures, estimating it to be in the 2,500-square-foot range.”

This story originally appeared in Unique Homes Ultimate ’21. Click here to see the digital version.

December 27, 2021 Leave a comment

Tidal Waves of Elegance

with:Lara Becker

Featured image: ©istockphoto.com / Chinnapong

It’s time to discover these 10 extraordinarily refined places, each with distinctly different waterfront experiences.

Birmingham, Michigan

What’s tucked inside a Great Lakes luxury property? The better question is, what’s not? Aside from fantastic lakefront views, plenty of room for entertaining, and a spot for any water toys you may fancy, the area itself is famously well-known. Janine Grillo, a Keller Williams Domain Associate Broker, tells Unique Homes that the Great Lakes region is the
No. 1 freshwater boating destination in the U.S.

“The sheer size of this territory affords boaters a whole world of fun and a number of diverse places to explore on the water,” she says, noting that every day here feels like a vacation. “This summer, we are finding buyers are looking to enjoy life more, relax (and work) from home. The updated, roomy waterfront properties sell fast,” Grillo says.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada & California

“The air up there in the clouds is very pure and fine. Bracing and delicious. And why shouldn’t it be? It is the same the angels breathe,” said Mark Twain in describing Lake Tahoe. Chase International President and CEO Shari Chase characterizes it in the same way, recounting this quote from where she calls home, on the Nevada side of the iconic area.

“Lake Tahoe is a real treasure,” Chase says in painting a picture of the 22-mile-long, 12-mile-wide body of water, which is majestically surrounded by mountains. “Everything has a very spiritual essence to it here. The water is beautifully pure, with blues and crystalized greens,” she continues. The land boasts an outdoor lifestyle, where residents can easily take in treasured hiking trails, ski lodges, boating, beaches, art and more. Within one hour of the space are gems such as Virginia City, Genoa, and Jackson, California, which all are filled with wonderful recreation.

Prices here range from $3.75 million to $48 million, with most buyers prioritizing a spacious pier when considering their search.

Chase International Broker Trinkie Watson says that diversity of year-round outdoor activities, alongside good restaurants, art galleries and unique shopping are a huge draw to the area, as well as convenience to Sacramento and the Bay Area. Residents can easily take in treasured hiking trails, ski lodges, boating and beaches. “Whether it’s at the lake or on a beautiful trail in the mountains, it’s all gorgeous,” Watson says.

Londonderry, New Hampshire

The New England waterfront is known for its variety of seasonal landscapes throughout the year. Residents are able to experience the full extent of floral springs, fluttering snowflakes, peaceful waters, and crisp autumn leaves. And right now, in the summertime, the sights could not be better, says Morgan Smith, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty.

“We have hundreds of clean lakes with 360 degrees of spectacular scenery. Owners love to watch the loons, fish off the dock, kayak and waterski, and lazily soak in the clear, fresh water warmed by the sun,” she says. Coastal properties in New England feature properties with rocky ledges, crashing waves, and beaches that can be strolled for miles and miles.

With regard to how the market is faring, lower-than-average inventories are leaving very few properties for sale at a time. Prices of waterfront properties range from $1 million to $25 million, with buyers privy to direct access to the water, spacious frontage, and plenty of room for a watercraft, Smith says. She enjoys her daily life in the area, and wishes to share the elegance with new buyers. “I love spending time in Cape Elizabeth,” she says. “If I can be on a boat (or a hammock), and smell fresh air next to a body of water, I’m happy.”

Coronado, San Diego, California

The California oceanfront is star-studded with luxury at every turn. Coronado, San Diego is absolutely no exception. Broker Associate Scott Aurich of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty has lived in 17 different houses throughout the town and loved every second of it. To get away from it all, Aurich enjoys his early mornings more than anything else; he spends it surfing in tranquil waters, golfing through immaculate links, or entranced by friendly creatures at the stables. He stressed that Coronado camaraderie cannot be replicated anywhere else he’s seen.

Whether it’s the unique amenities the town has to offer, the community center with a gym, or the iconic $34 million Crown Manor estate he is representing, Coronado is truly special. But his favorite piece of home, he says, is the people. “The best thing is the people; it’s hard to describe,” Aurich mentioned. He finds that the kindness of his neighbors is where he feels the most pride. It’s not just Aurich that has noticed the grandeur; the temperature of real estate in Coronado is booming, to say the least. The demand is so high that at press time, only 54 houses were for sale. “The market is white hot,” Aurich said, explaining that the value of homes has gone up exponentially in the last 20 years.

Egg Harbor, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin, is a gorgeous peninsula with 250 miles of coastline — it’s surrounded by the waters of Lake Michigan on the eastern side, and Green Bay on the western side. For weekenders or vacationers, the area boasts incredible opportunities for sailing, water sports, fishing, boutiques, restaurants and quaint villages that dot the shoreline, explains Jamie Sanger, a managing broker with Coldwell Banker Realty.

The county of Door has fantastic experiences in the arts, theater, and golf courses, but most of all, it is best known for its natural scenic beauty, she tells Unique Homes. With even multimillion-dollar homes and estates selling like hotcakes, any inventory that is available is selling for well over asking price. Sanger feels that her area and the lifestyles awaiting there are in particularly high demand: “I feel the pandemic has fueled our market, in that folks want to be able to ‘get away’ from the urban areas to enjoy a more peaceful, private, and healthy lifestyle,” she continues. This is what she sees in her own hometown as well, Ellison Bay, which she says has stayed tranquil and untouched by development in recent years.

Sarasota, Florida

Over in Sarasota, Candy Swick, president and broker at Candy Swick & Company, is dazzled by the diversity of people she meets every single day. “One minute you are having a conversation with an astronaut, a rocket scientist, an author, or an international ballet virtuoso from Russia,” she says.

Swick describes the water in Sarasota as “Carribean blue,” alongside a breeze that drifts in soft and cooling. Residents can enjoy multitudes of water sports, a world-class ice skating rink where Olympic figure skaters have trained, and ballet and opera performances.

As for the price tag, luxury homes are running from $2 million to
$20 million. Houses are frequently selling the day they enter the market, at list price or often in a situation with multiple offers. A typical bayfront home in Sarasota starts at $2.5 million, where buyers can view the magic, nightlife, and restaurants outlining the entire city. “We know that if an individual desired to enjoy a new restaurant for lunch and another for dinner, it would take more than a year to explore them all,” Swick said.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

“Think of a place that has beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear water and clean, silky-smooth sand; a place that is known as the yacht capital of the world, with spectacular vessels cruising in daily through the port,” says Shai Mashiach, a Coldwell Banker Realty agent, in painting a picture of his beloved home.

He notes that in the bustling housing market, several waterfront neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale are in high demand; particularly Las Olas and Harbor Beach, where prices start in the millions. Mashiach noted the convenience of the area as well; it’s only a one-hour boat ride to the Bahamas, a 30-minute drive south to Miami or north to Palm Beach, and one hour to the Florida Keys. “It’s a place that has the best restaurants, great nightlife, and magnificent people from around the globe,” he continued.

As far as his personal favorite to-dos, Mashiach and his family enjoy quality time on the water, fishing, or docking at a favorite restaurant on the Intracoastal for a spectacular meal. “From yoga on the beach to amazing deep-water fishing, Fort Lauderdale has a wonderful ambiance and everything you need to enjoy life,” he says.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel, Mexico is known as one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. A hundred-plus feet of visibility in the pristine, cobalt water is perfect for a deep dive, whether you’re a novice or expert. “The clarity of the water is just extraordinary,” says Cindy Case, a Realtor with Douglas Elliman. The island takes pride in differentiating itself from the mainland; as opposed to cities like Cancun, Cozumel boasts a private, more intimate community.

“It’s a unique, small island with a very relaxed vibe,” Case says. Yet, this does not eliminate the availability of ample restaurants, shopping, and hospital care. There are many properties available for sale along the water, and well-priced at that. Case notes the affordability of property on such a prime Caribbean island. When recalling her favorites, Case enjoys beach hopping along the backside of the island; she treasures the chain of beautiful, wide, white-sand beaches with restaurants and bars.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Picture year-round warm weather and sunshine, vast cultural diversity and delicacies, and a fabulous cosmopolitan lifestyle when thinking of residential life in Honolulu, Hawaii, says Tracy Allen of Coldwell Banker Realty.

“Breathtaking hikes along the Ko’olau mountain ranges and scenic coastal trails offer incredible vistas second to none. Visitors and residents love the vast cultural foods found in Hawaii, and come to the island to enjoy many different dining experiences,” Allen describes.

For purchases on the water, prices start at around $6 million, and can range from $8 million to $20 million as well. Allen says that waterfront homes in the area have generally been built within the last 10 years, and include modern touches such as lighter wood tones, smart technology, gyms, home offices, and large, professional kitchens.

Surfing, paddle boarding, kite surfing, jet skiing, and canoe paddling are just a few activities keeping residents entertained. Allen wants buyers to know: if you’re looking for a diverse experience, Hawaii is for you. And when asked her perfect way to spend a day, her answer is simple; “The beach! You can never go wrong with our turquoise crystal-clear waters!”

Kaua’i, Hawaii

In another part of the islands, luxury on Kaua’i translates to “soulful” according to Hawaii Life broker Neal Norman. It is that very soul and heart that keeps residents smiling in the sunshine, just as Norman found himself when he moved in 25 years ago.

“We’re seeing purposeful buyers who want to live the lifestyle: that luxury, soulful living that Kaua’i provides,” Norman says. In the North Shore region where he is located, buyers and sellers are connected on the ocean view at a variety of prices, ranging from $3 million to $50 million. Dream homes are purchased on the daily in this blue-sky paradise, where residents can spend quality time with loved ones and friends.

Offering numerous outdoor endeavors, hiking, surfing, sailing, snorkeling, swimming, beach combing and biking are just a few of the fantastic opportunities in Kaua’i. “Buyers are finding solitude and serenity on this little island in the Pacific Sea,” Norman says. “Kaua’i is a rare and special place.”

THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN THE UH Summer ’21 ISSUE OF UNIQUE HOMES. TO SEE THE DIGITAL VERSION OF THIS STORY, CLICK HERE.

December 20, 2021 Leave a comment

Car-Free Communities

with:Marlene Ridgway

Culdesac will be the first neighborhood-scale community with zero residential parking, which will allow for more open spaces that can be used for socializing, events, and getting to know your neighbors.

Rendering by Opticos Design.

A five-minute city, car-free and golf cart centered communities are gaining momentum around the United States, from Port Aransas, Texas, to Tempe, Arizona.

With plenty of extra outdoor space, Culdesac will hold over 150 events per year, including concerts, food trucks on the plaza, outdoor yoga classes, and more that guests can enjoy close to home.

Rendering by Opticos Design.

Automobiles have long been a symbol of freedom and advancement, making it easy to overlook the strain they put on our communities and the environment. Even smaller cities are battling noise and air pollution as the number of cars per household increases. Long commutes, congested traffic routes, parking fees, and pollution have all encouraged a whole new way of thinking when it comes to cars.

Culdesac, in Tempe, Arizona is the first car-free community in the United States that has been built from top to bottom around the idea that cities can be made better. “The vision has always remained the same — to build cities for people and not cars,” says Culdesac’s general manager, Lavanya Sunder. Space that is typically reserved for roads, parking lots, and individual parking has been completely rethought in this rental apartment community. Parking lots and garages have been replaced with wide-open spaces that offer everything from fire pits and hammocks to water features and inviting courtyards.

Tempe, Arizona, offered the ideal canvas for a project like Culdesac. “We chose Tempe for its thriving job market, proximity to transportation, and forward-thinking, action-oriented local government,” says Sunder. These are among the added benefits when considering a car-free community.

“By removing parking lots, we were able to see all of the possibilities, twice the retail, triple the open space, and 55-percent landscape coverage, compared to less than 20 percent from comparable developments,” notes Sunder.

The community was designed as a five-minute city, meaning everything residents might need is within reach and life is at your front door. “Homes at Culdesac all open up to vibrant shared courtyards, versus impersonal hallways in traditional apartment complexes,” says Sunder. Seemingly small details such as this contribute to the overall atmosphere that is created when a place urges its residents to slow down. “Community is a key component of Culdesac. Culdesac will have over 150 events per year, including concerts, food trucks on the plaza, outdoor yoga classes, and more.”

Communities such as Culdesac are finding that residents are drawn to the idea of knowing their neighbors again. A notion that hasn’t been overlooked in other communities around the United States. Port Aransas, Texas, is a beautiful beach destination that is like traveling back in time. The eclectic atmosphere is entirely accessible by golf carts, including the 18 miles of beach, with spacious boardwalks that accommodate the carts and encourage foot traffic. The use of golf carts decreases traffic, noise and pollution, and creates a very relaxed pace around the island. Cinnamon Shore, the 1,000-acre, master-planned beachfront community is very walkable and designed with families in mind who want to enjoy the small-town feel in Port Aransas.

A private luxury community, Haig Point, on the northern end of Daufuskie Island in South Carolina is only accessible by ferry, and the island is almost entirely car-free. Residents and guests never have to worry about traffic, stopping for gas, or finding a parking space, as the island runs mainly on golf carts. Similarly, Fire Island, across the Great South Bay from Long Island, New York, is another popular summer retreat that functions smoothly without cars. Bikes, golf carts, and jet skis are the best way to experience the Fire Island’s top-tier accommodations.

According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, “the mean number of vehicles in households is 1.9 personal vehicles…. Thus, it appears that households on average have more vehicles than drivers.” American cities, from New York to San Francisco, are struggling to provide enough space to merely park all of these vehicles, nevermind drive them.

Our personal space, green space, shared space, and even sidewalks have decreased significantly over the years as the need to accommodate a growing number of automobiles increases.

Communities such as Culdesac are hoping it is time for the urban form to be rethought and upgraded. “We also will have an “Extend Your Home On-Demand” Program,” says Sunder.

Communities such as Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas, Texas, are embracing the idea that guests want a slower pace without sacrificing accessibility.

Car-free and golf cart centered communities are designed for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors and spend less time stuck in traffic.

“Residents will have access to a variety of bookable spaces to allow them to expand and contract their home as needed.” A modern way of living has melded with the traditional idea of small-town communities. “Culdesac will have bookable guest suites, podcast studios, hosting spaces, and day-use office spaces to allow your home to adjust to your needs,” Sunder explains. “Why pay for a guest room 365 days a year, when you only use it a few times a month?”

Forever shifting to accommodate the residents’ needs, a car-free community like Culdesac is ideal for many people, even during these changing times amidst a pandemic. “The idea of life at your front door makes Culdesac Tempe a place that a variety of people with different needs are interested in — young professionals, students, families, remote workers, retirees, empty nesters, et cetera,” says Sunder. More spacious apartments and public workspace are functional for those residents who are working remotely, as they also don’t have to worry about commuting into an office every day. Since the pandemic, “we’ve seen increased interest from folks particularly from New York and San Francisco, and 50 percent of our waitlist are people coming from outside Arizona,” notes Sunder.

December 14, 2021 Leave a comment

The Beauty of Victoria

with:Unique Homes Staff

Victoria, British Columbia’s Capital City, is located on the beautiful Vancouver Island in Canada. From the minute your plane touches down, your lungs will expand and relish healthy, fresh, ocean-circulated air.

Here you can enjoy boating, beaches, world-class shopping and a super natural environment.

Looking to settle down in Victoria?

Check out this Unique listing!

Victoria boasts a spectacular setting of ocean and mountain vistas and offers numerous economic, cultural and recreational opportunities.

Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada and with greenery in evidence throughout the year there is little wonder that it’s called the City of Gardens!

The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and for many boaters is the gateway to the City of Gardens. Bordering the harbour are the ivy-covered Fairmont Empress hotel, the world-renowned Royal British Columbia Museum and the magnificent BC Parliament Buildings.

UPLANDS ESTATES in Oak Bay | Victoria, British Columbia

Privately nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, away from all drive-through traffic, this rare artisan creation awaits. 9,878 square feet of interior luxury living. 1,745 square feet of exquisite patio entertaining areas including a full outdoor kitchen and gas fire pit. All with .71 acres of surrounding, ever-changing flowering gardens and trees highlighted by a meandering river and waterfalls. This is the first time this property has been offered for sale since completion in 2012. Visit the website for Floor Plans, Video, 3D Renderings & 100+ Photos. $6,995,000

Listing provided by Cathy Duncan.

Cathy & Associates Ltd. | cathy@cathyduncan.com | 250.888.9343

October 6, 2021 1 Comment

Dream Home in Illinois

with:Unique Homes Staff

Just blocks from Lake Michigan and approximately 16 miles from the city of Chicago, this Georgian Home in East Winnetka, Illinois has the luxury and elegance of 1918 updated with the magnificence of today’s standards.

“This home would be perfect for anyone that is into older homes with architectural details we don’t see today, but still has all of the updates and attributes of 2021,” says Lisa Kowalenko of Keller Williams Momentum, who is listing the property for $2.85 million. “It’s warm and inviting everywhere through the home, while still being spacious and efficient.”

The home features six bedrooms and four full and one half baths and an exquisite master suite with an incredible dressing and closet area that is the envy of the North Shore. Outdoors, the private country club-quality yard boasts a terrace, pool, and a hot tub to help create a lifetime of memories. “As you walk through the property you can almost feel the glory,” says Kowalenko. “This is definitely a true gem.”

January 25, 2021 Leave a comment

North Cottage in Norton Shores, Michigan

with:Unique Homes Staff

Offering 100 feet of private beach frontage on Lake Michigan in Norton Shores, this two-bedroom, two-bath cottage showcases three miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline.

“The property is contiguous to the P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, so no one can build to the left of the property — and you can enjoy private walks along the beach, miles of hiking and skiing trails and kayaking in the summer,” says Bradley Wisk of Keller Williams Harbortown who is listing the property for $1.5 million.

The home has been recently restored and features include a teak deck leading to the beach, an open floor plan, a chef’s kitchen with luxury appliances, a bath with a large walk-in shower and jetted bathtub, and a lower level with two bedrooms, a full-bath, and laundry room.

Photos courtesy of Bradley Wisk.

January 22, 2021 Leave a comment

The Manor from Unique Homes 2017 Ultimate issue.

As we mark the 17th “Ultimate” edition of Unique Homes, we look back at the exceptional properties and agents who have been a part of the annual celebration of the most expensive real estate in the U.S.

The 2016 sale of the Playboy Mansion cracked the $100 million benchmark in L.A.

Once dubbed “the Crown Jewel of Beverly Hills,” Owlwood’s resume includes a number of other high-profile names and celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe.

Ultimate Manhattan? The Tommy Hilfiger penthouse at The Plaza in New York City graced the cover of Ultimate Homes in 2014.

Casa Casuarina, seen here on the Unique Homes Fall 2012 cover, was the home of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace.

Chartwell was listed by a team of agents including Rey and Jade Mills with Coldwell Banker Realty, and Gold and Jeff Hyland with Hilton & Hyland. When prices breach $100 million, it’s not uncommon to have multiple brokerages marketing the property.

“These types of mansions usually come on the market once in a blue moon, once a decade, but recently a number have traded in the last couple of years,” Gold shares.

“When I first went there, there were all of the animals, monkeys, peacocks were all over the property — I just thought that it was so amazing that right in the middle of Holmby Hills, you had all those fabulous animals. So, it was just fun to see, and to see the grotto.”

Gold says the number of birds increased over time as local avians decided it was a great place to call home and joined the menagerie.

Foundation of Value

“The biggest thing you can have with a beautiful estate is Mother Nature,” adds Shari Chase.

Le Belvedere, like Tranquility, is also exceptional for its amenities. At that time, shares Rey, “people weren’t building so many of those major theaters. Before that, only those in the industry had large screening rooms.

Rey was involved in the sale of Le Belvedere for $50 million — the highest in the U.S. in 2010 –— and again in 2018 for $56 million.

Amenity Wars

Legendary Redos

It’s time to discover these 10 extraordinarily refined places, each with distinctly different waterfront experiences.

Birmingham, Michigan

Lake Tahoe, Nevada & California

Londonderry, New Hampshire

Coronado, San Diego, California

Egg Harbor, Wisconsin

Sarasota, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Cozumel, Mexico

Honolulu, Hawaii

Kaua’i, Hawaii

THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN THE UH Summer ’21 ISSUE OF UNIQUE HOMES. TO SEE THE DIGITAL VERSION OF THIS STORY, CLICK HERE.

Culdesac will be the first neighborhood-scale community with zero residential parking, which will allow for more open spaces that can be used for socializing, events, and getting to know your neighbors.

A five-minute city, car-free and golf cart centered communities are gaining momentum around the United States, from Port Aransas, Texas, to Tempe, Arizona.

With plenty of extra outdoor space, Culdesac will hold over 150 events per year, including concerts, food trucks on the plaza, outdoor yoga classes, and more that guests can enjoy close to home.

Tempe, Arizona, offered the ideal canvas for a project like Culdesac. “We chose Tempe for its thriving job market, proximity to transportation, and forward-thinking, action-oriented local government,” says Sunder. These are among the added benefits when considering a car-free community.

“By removing parking lots, we were able to see all of the possibilities, twice the retail, triple the open space, and 55-percent landscape coverage, compared to less than 20 percent from comparable developments,” notes Sunder.

Our personal space, green space, shared space, and even sidewalks have decreased significantly over the years as the need to accommodate a growing number of automobiles increases.

Communities such as Culdesac are hoping it is time for the urban form to be rethought and upgraded. “We also will have an “Extend Your Home On-Demand” Program,” says Sunder.

Communities such as Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas, Texas, are embracing the idea that guests want a slower pace without sacrificing accessibility.

Car-free and golf cart centered communities are designed for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors and spend less time stuck in traffic.

Victoria, British Columbia’s Capital City, is located on the beautiful Vancouver Island in Canada. From the minute your plane touches down, your lungs will expand and relish healthy, fresh, ocean-circulated air.

Here you can enjoy boating, beaches, world-class shopping and a super natural environment.

Looking to settle down in Victoria?

Check out this Unique listing!

Victoria boasts a spectacular setting of ocean and mountain vistas and offers numerous economic, cultural and recreational opportunities.

Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada and with greenery in evidence throughout the year there is little wonder that it’s called the City of Gardens!

The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and for many boaters is the gateway to the City of Gardens. Bordering the harbour are the ivy-covered Fairmont Empress hotel, the world-renowned Royal British Columbia Museum and the magnificent BC Parliament Buildings.

UPLANDS ESTATES in Oak Bay | Victoria, British Columbia

Listing provided by Cathy Duncan.

Photos courtesy of Bradley Wisk.

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