Welcome to the much-anticipated 2023 Anniversary Issue of Unique Homes Magazine. As we celebrate this milestone, we present you with The Ultimate List, a meticulously curated selection of the 20 most expensive listings in each state, showcasing the diversity that defines the very fabric of our nation.

This issue is meant to serve as your exclusive passport to the epitome of luxury in real estate. Embark on a journey with us as we redefine island living in Oahu, Hawaii, where the tropical paradise meets contemporary opulence. Explore Casa Mare, an expansive residence on the coveted Seven Mile Beach Corridor of Grand Cayman, offering an unparalleled experience in Caribbean living. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Tranquility in Tulum, a haven where the beauty of nature converges with architectural brilliance.

We welcome the reader to use this issue as a portal to extraordinary homes. Join us as we unveil the unparalleled, the extraordinary, and the truly unique in the world of luxury real estate. Welcome to the 2023 Anniversary Issue of Unique Homes Magazine – where dreams find their address.

Carmel Realty Company is proud to set another landmark sale on the Monterey Peninsula with the sale of the iconic Butterfly House on Scenic Road for $29,000,000. This is the highest sale on record in Carmel proper.

Selling magnificent estates like The Butterfly House, takes a very sophisticated approach with a unique ability for storytelling and very strategic marketing efforts.

One of the most elegant and compelling marketing pieces created by Carmel Realty was a world-class estate film executed in collaboration with Goldeneye Media of Melbourne, Australia, The Butterfly House. This film and several other marketing pieces by Carmel Realty illustrated how elegantly this home was designed to live in its extraordinary natural setting.  The world-famous Butterfly House is acclaimed for its exceptional design and prime positioning on Carmel Point and has been featured in Architectural Digest 100, A Century of Style.

Shelly Mitchell Lynch represented the sellers, Kevin, and Hannah Comolli, in this iconic sale. “While we are not at liberty to discuss details of the transaction, I can say that it requires experience, extraordinary ability, and a different approach to selling these exquisite homes that are really pieces of art, where the pricing is often subjective and a matter of timing. Shelly and her Carmel Realty team so professionally brought the Butterfly to life, showcasing how the home fits so beautifully in its natural setting. The homes balance and longevity and connection to nature has enriched our lives forever and, while bittersweet, we are delighted to pass the legacy to the new owner”, says Kevin Comolli.

“I could not be more proud to have represented the sale of this iconic property and its very special owners.  The Comolli’s exceptional taste and commitment to quality has helped restore a piece of Carmel’s architectural history for generations to come.  I will be forever grateful to them every time I pass this beautiful home.” says listing agent and Carmel Realty Company Broker, Shelly Mitchell Lynch.

“Our team proved once again that experience, insight, and intelligent marketing is essential to properly communicate the value of these exceptional properties.  Every step is strategic; Carmel Realty’s standard of elevated representation makes the difference” says Shelly Mitchell Lynch who was just ranked #1 agent in sales volume on the Monterey Peninsula and #41 in the United States by RealTrends and as recognized by Wall Street Journal in 2022.

Shelly Mitchell Lynch and Carmel Realty Company have now represented the highest priced sale in Carmel Proper with the Butterfly sale at $29M; Pebble Beach with the sale of Cypress Manor in February 2022 for $36.5M; Carmel-by-the-Sea with the sale of 10 Carmel Way for $27M in 2015 and held the previous record in Big Sur with the sale of a coastal estate for $23.25M in 2021.

Carmel Realty Company has solidified their market share dominance year over year having sold these high-end homes more than any other brokerage on the Monterey Peninsula. Carmel Realty Company has represented 28 Buyers and Sellers on homes over $20M in the last 10 years alone. With 81 agents, collaboration and knowledge are what set this company apart from the competition. Carmel Realty Company understands the intricacies of selling high-end homes and the luxury lifestyle. They are committed to representing their buyers and sellers for a memorable and trusted experience that no other company on the Monterey Peninsula can match.

About Carmel Realty Company:

Carmel Realty Company is the oldest real estate firm on the Monterey Peninsula.  Independently owned, Carmel Realty connects to the world as Board of Regent’s member of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate. The company focuses exclusively on high-end real estate. In addition to being the leader in the luxury real estate market, Carmel Realty Company is the market leader in luxury vacation rentals and estate management, managing short and long-term rental homes. The company leverages the personal insight and skill of its agents with industry-leading technology and a world-class marketing team.

At 14 Valley View Road in Philadelphia, old world elegance meets distinctive modern design in this remarkable custom home timelessly crafted by Blake Development, one of Philadelphia’s premier homebuilders.

Located in Chestnut Hill, one of the area’s most sought after neighborhoods, the beautifully landscaped property is on a rarely traveled side street just steps from the dining and shopping along Germantown Avenue, the train and the Wissahickon Trails of Fairmount Park. A distinguished design offers impeccable scale and amenities enhanced by stylish luxury selections evident throughout the home. The stunning exterior features Wissahickon schist and Hardie board siding. Entering through the oversized front porch, you are greeted with a gracious center hallway flanked by a formal living room and formal dining room.

The formal living room is full of light and graces the occupants with the warmth of an oversized gas fireplace in the colder months. The graciously sized dining room offers the perfect venue to entertain family and friends. With an expansive adjacent bar area which can double as the perfect serving space for your holiday buffets, and the clever addition of a traditional smoking porch located just off the dining room, this room invites you to linger. As you continue down the main hallway you reach the beautifully appointed family room, complete with a tray ceiling and stone surround gas fireplace. Just beyond the family room is a private light-filled study with a vaulted ceiling, custom built-in bookshelves, a second gas fireplace and custom glass pocket doors which can be closed to create a serene setting to work or relax.

One of the two powder rooms on this level is located just off the main hallway with a second located in the mudroom area. Alongside the family room is the gourmet kitchen which is outfitted with professional grade premium Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, quartzite countertops, and oversized breakfast area. Adjacent to the kitchen you will find a spacious bonus area which can serve as a homework area or home command center, and a mudroom with custom built-in storage.

Elegant sliding glass doors open to a beautifully landscaped, private flagstone terrace which runs the length of the home. Extensive, mature landscaping provides a private and majestic park-like setting and a summer kitchen allows for easy grilling and a convenient location for beverages. The second floor which can be accessed via the main or back staircase features a generous floor plan, including a serene primary suite with a spa-like bathroom featuring a freestanding soaking tub, oversized frameless shower, separate water closet and double vanity.

Two secondary bedrooms share an oversized Jack and Jill bathroom and two additional bedrooms each offer the convenience of ensuite bathrooms. The second floor has a large laundry room, and expansive cedar closet for all your out of season storage needs. The third floor consists of a large bonus room which has the flexibility to serve as a playroom, home office or the sixth bedroom with full bath and an additional storage area. The nearly 2000 sf lower level has been impeccably finished with a large media area, full custom bar, fitness room with athletic flooring, and an extensive wine storage room.

A walk-out to the rear yard provides an element of natural light and convenient access to the outdoors. A three-car garage and long driveway offer plenty of parking. This chic and sophisticated home also offers 4 years left on the tax abatement.

This home is represented by Holly Reynolds & Jennifer Rinella of The Sivel Group

For the ultimate in luxury living, look no further than the Tahoma Penthouse at the new Ritz-Carlton Residences, Portland. Located on the top floor of the building, this premier Penthouse boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Willamette and Columbia Rivers, and surrounding Cascade Mountains.

Designed by Winn Winn Interiors, the Tahoma Penthouse features a monochromatic design with crystal accents and wainscot paneling, creating a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere. The hidden doors and custom bar add to the exclusivity of this home, while the hot tub—the only private hot tub in the building offers the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Portland are an integration of luxury and modern design, with a sleek building exterior designed by GBD Architects. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime home that offers unparalleled amenities, paired with the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton completely at your discretion. The Tahoma Penthouse is the epitome of luxurious living, offering timeless comfort and style that will leave you feeling pampered and indulged every day.

Offered by Mimi McCaslin & Anne-Marie Knapp of LUXE | Forbes Global Properties

Visit the full listing here. 

Casa Legorreta is on the market for the first time ever! Named after the late internationally renowned architect Ricardo Legorreta, this home is true starchitecture. 

Ricardo Legorreta is the first Latin Gold Medal winner from the American Institute of Architects. This prestigious recognition is annually awarded exclusively to an individual who has created a distinguished body of architecture. Legorreta was also widely recognized for designing Hollywood producer Joel Silver’s home, now on the market for $52 million.

This home stands on a spacious double lot in San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage village.

The owners and Legorreta collaborated in the design, bringing a spectacular vision to life – Casa Legorreta. Legorreta’s design style, illustrated throughout this estate, is best described as delicately balanced between austerity and generosity. 

When taking the first steps into this home, visitors are welcomed into a temazcal-like foyer where you are guided by the broken light of the colonnade at the far end. The entryway leads you to a central courtyard of paved stone bound by a water-rill-like fountain sourced by a Legorreta water stair. 

The house is designed to seamlessly transition from indoor to outdoor living, a popular design in a temperate city. The living room features large sliding glass doors which lead to the outdoor terrace and gardens beyond. 

The first floor of this two-story home is where the family may gather around a spacious dining room that opens to gardens on both sides. Additionally, this floor features the kitchen, staff quarters, and a wood-burning fireplace. A dining terrace overlooks the swimming pool. 

Just a story above is the master suite offering a view of the city’s iconic Parroquia church right from your pillow. The master bathroom encompasses an all-marble dual sink that adjoins a dressing room. The master suite’s glass-parapet balcony overlooks the pool. An in-suite library and desk feature a Frank Gehry Cross Check™ chair, part of the legacy-worthy furniture included with this home.

Two additional en-suite guest rooms complete the second floor, one with a large private terrace.

The home faces a street named the 11th prettiest street in the world by Architectural Digest in 2022, with a roof terrace offering views framed by palm trees of the famous Parroquia church. Hosting an art studio and a trellis-covered lounge, the roof terrace can be easily converted into a 4th bedroom as it features a half bath. 

Best of all, the environment is as noteworthy as the home! San Miguel de Allende has been placed at #1 on Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Cities in the World for 5 years! Condé Nast Traveler describes San Miguel de Allende as “a hub for expat artists” as it is “known for its Spanish Colonial Architecture and colorful facades.” Those with an appreciation for art and culture will enjoy hours worth of galleries and pop-up shops. 

The lifestyle of San Miguel de Allende, combined with the iconic designs of a treasured architectural genius, makes Casa Legorreta a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. No other Legorreta exists globally with a pedigree as prestigious as Casa Legorreta!

This home is represented by Gregory Gunter.

MX Cell: 521.415.103.4141

Intl Toll Free: 877.878.4141

Assistant Chris Stenger (para Español): 415.178.8300

BHHS Colonial Homes San Miguel

DreamProHomes

The magnificent footprint of your Hawks Ridge estate impresses you at first glance, yet the wide front porch welcomes you like an old friend. This property, represented by Joe Fox of Keller Williams Partners, The Mountain Life Real Estate Team boasts elegantly lofted ceilings, oversized windows, and luxurious finishes abound inside and provide the perfect canvas for entertaining on a grand scale. Host a bridge or poker tournament from your game room, a wine tasting with vintages from your cellar, or watch the big game around your splendid bar. Music lovers will treasure the professionally outfitted recording studio.

The delights don’t end inside. Step outside and admire your expansive and impeccably landscaped 8+ acres. A multitude of settings for outdoor entertaining await with your very own tennis court, basketball court, and a pool-house with a stage perfect for entertaining. Gather in the terraced pool and hot tub overlooking the golf course. Two outdoor kitchens are ideal anchors for casual get-togethers. For an intimate al fresco conversation, a private courtyard awaits.

Location, Location, Location!

In the foothills of the Appalachians, just north of Atlanta, Ball Ground is known for its historic main street and small-town charm. Residents appreciate a laid-back lifestyle while being close to highly-ranked schools and the booming Atlanta metroplex. Enjoy strolling around Ball Ground, perusing unique shops, and admiring historic homes. Hawks Ridge Golf Course clubhouse is a mile away and the private member club features a championship, Bob Cupp designed, 18-hole course, an exclusive clubhouse and tavern, a helipad, and more for resident owners.

Outdoor recreation abounds whenever fresh air calls. Georgia’s Blue Ridge mountains loom only a short drive away. Camp, hike, raft, or fish the hundreds of miles of trails and rivers in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Spend the day on Lake Arrowhead. Neighboring cities, Alpharetta and Canton, offer more history, breweries, art galleries, and Etowah River Park.

FEATURES LIST:

● Total: 20,010 sf | 8.53 acres | 9 bedrooms | 10 full bathrooms and 3 half bathrooms

● Architectural Features | Gated, grand circle drive; Expansive front porch with double entry door; Soaring 10ft trey ceilings; Inlaid tile and hardwood floors; 5 fireplaces; Oversized arched windows

● Owner’s Sanctuary | Huge suite with sitting area; Spa bath with soaking tub, separate stone walk-in shower, and his and her sinks and water closets; His and her walk-in closets

● Chef’s Kitchen | Island with bar seating; Pantry; Natural stone countertops

● Outdoor Features | Terraced swimming pool and hot tub; Outdoor living room with fireplace; Courtyard with grass block pavers; Screened-in porch with grill and fireplace; Additional terrace with summer kitchen; Prime golf course views; Private, wooded property

● Guest house | 2-bed/2-bath; Kitchen; Living/dining room; Patio

● Other Spaces & Amenities | Formal dining room with fireplace; Family room/den; Gym and spa treatment room; Game room with wet bar and lounge; Home theater; Executive office; Wine cellar; 5-car garage; Elevator; Cul-de-sac; Recording studio & Performance stage

● Community Amenities | Gated enclave of Hawks Ridge; Staffed security gate; Private membership club; 18 hole championship golf course; Clubhouse and restaurant

● Location | 15 minutes from downtown Ball Ground; 30 minutes from Alpharetta; 42 miles north of Atlanta; 60 miles from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; 2 hours from Chattanooga

The Fine Print:

This property is listed for sale by The Mountain Life Team, Keller Williams Realty Partners, Broker, License #H-64730, 294 Hwy 515 W, Suite L, Blairsville, GA 30512, 678.494.0644, Joseph Fox, License #420149, (“Listing Agent”).

Marsha Merrill actively sells real estate with over 10 years of experience as a full-time REALTOR® and is consistently recognized as one of northern Utah’s top 250 agents. She serves her clients to meet their real estate needs and budget, whether it be luxury property, second home, vacation home, residential, new construction, rental, land, investment, multi-unit, or 1031 exchange.

Her high level of service, expert market knowledge, dedication, negotiation skills, attention to detail, honesty, integrity, and genuine care for clients’ best interests are some of the traits that make Marsha a significant asset to her clients, and set her apart from other agents. Her former career in marketing, coupled with her professional accreditations, offer a competitive advantage for her clients. Marsha is completely focused on her clients, and provides them with the expertise needed to make their transaction successful yet enjoyable.

Since being just a REALTOR® isn’t enough in this competitive market, Marsha holds the following professional certifications so that she can very best serve her Clients. Her accreditations include:

Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)
Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR)
Military Relocation Professional (MRP)
Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA)
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE)

OGDEN is a four-season paradise to live and play in, where families can enjoy year-round recreation right in their backyard. A short drive from 3 world-class ski resorts, 45 minutes from the SLC International Airport, and 30 minutes from city life, Ogden Valley comfortably accommodates a myriad of lifestyles.

No matter the type of property you are looking for, from charming country properties to apartments in the city, Marsha is familiar with the area and honored to assist you in finding your dream property in Northern Utah.