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Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fawcett Farm in Los Banos, CA

In imagining the ideal setting for living a full, free, and rich life, Frank Lloyd Wright sought architecture where: “We have no longer an outside and an inside as two separate things. Now the outside may come inside, and the inside may and does go outside. They are of each other. Form and function thus become one in design and execution if the nature of materials and method and purpose are all in unison.” That this unity is achieved at Fawcett Farm cannot fully be conveyed by words and pictures, but only by direct experience.

Sited on 76 acres of land in California’s Central Valley that Buck Fawcett characterized to Wright as the most fertile agricultural land in the world, the residence and surrounding gardens afford an island of peace rising from the crops and merging with the distant mountains on the far horizon.

A multi-award winning world-class restoration and enhancements to the landscape, gardens, and security have been completed by the second owners in consultation with Eric Lloyd Wright, and overseen by Taliesin Associate architect Arthur Dyson. An inspiring and unique living environment now awaits your creative use.

The gated property includes: Main residence with open-plan living, dining and family areas, 7 bedrooms, 6 baths, kitchen, and service room/ laundry, with fi replaces in the living room, family room and master bedroom. Additionally, there is a semi-attached small museum, a large detached workshop, swimming pool, Koi pond and Japanese garden.

This extraordinary property located at 21200 Center Avenue, Los Banos, CA 93635 and is listed exclusively by Crosby Doe Associates. You can find the full listing at fawcettfarm.crosbydoe.com.

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John Naumann & Associates Joins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty is pleased to announce that it has expanded its Lee County presence for the second time this year with the addition John Naumann & Associates. The transaction adds its REALTORS® and staff to the statewide company. Terms were not disclosed.

The brokerages’ founder, John Naumann, who passed away suddenly in July, first came to Sanibel in 1972 and founded John Naumann & Associates, Inc. in 1975.  John built the company into the largest real estate brokerage company on Sanibel and Captiva Islands with annual sales of more than $400 million.

John Naumann & Associates have an impeccable reputation and have represented the region’s finest properties.

“This acquisition serves as a tribute to John Naumann’s honorable legacy and ongoing commitment to serving the real estate needs of the Sanibel community.  We are proud and fortunate that they have entrusted us to continue in his honor as John Naumann & Associates transitions to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty.  The pillars of our core values – longevity, stability and integrity are perfectly aligned with those of John Naumann & Associates.  The firm’s associates are well-respected throughout the local community and southwest Florida, and we are pleased to welcome them to our “Family of Services,” said Rei Mesa, president and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty.

“We are honored to have the associates of John Naumann join our Southwest Florida region,” remarked Shawn Strodoski, Regional Vice President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty.

“John Naumann & Associates have enjoyed great recognition and success over the years assisting customers with outstanding results.  Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty’s solid reputation, global brand recognition, along with their long-term vision are an excellent match for my father’s company and for the dedicated and loyal REALTOR® associates who deserve the continued expectation of excellence and leadership.  We are proud to have the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices name now associated with the team and look forward to continued success,” commented Jason Naumann, son of the late John Naumann.

The company’s local real estate associates are immersed in the Sanibel and Captiva real estate markets and specialize in condos and waterfront homes for sale. Craig Dorfman, Managing Broker of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty – Fort Myers located at 6700 Daniels Parkway, Suite 4, Fort Myers, FL 33912, will also be the Managing Broker of the Sanibel Branch Sales Office located at 1149 Periwinkle Way, Suite A, Sanibel, Florida. 33957, Office # 239-472-0176.

The transaction represents Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty’s ongoing growth strategy in Florida.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty serves 22 counties throughout Florida with over 30 locations and nearly 1,700 sales professionals. The full-service brokerage company, founded in 1999, and is part of HomeServices of America, the nation’s premier provider of homeownership services. The company is a franchise member of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ network, one of the few organizations entrusted to use the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway name. The company offers residential and commercial services as well as seasonal rentals, property management, REO & Foreclosures, corporate relocations, referral services, title, financing, home warranty plans, and personal concierge services. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty ranks in the Top 10 in the network among 50,000 Sales Professionals, 1,500 offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East, The Bahamas and India. The company has been recognized as the No. 1 fundraiser for The Sunshine Kids Foundation, dedicated to children with cancer, having generated more than $3.9 million. Visit www.BHHSFloridaRealty.com.

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Supreme Auctions To Offer Texas Hill Country CW Ranch at Auction August 30 – September 1.

Boerne, TX | August 11, 2022 — Escaping the ordinary just became possible at CW Ranch with spectacular scenic views, mature oak trees, and a variety of wildlife throughout its 66+ acres, rich history, and romantic appeal. This rancher’s delight can be your personal haven, equestrian facility, hunting lodge, family compound, or spectacular entertainment destination moments from both Boerne and Sisterdale. Supreme Auctions will offer this Texas Hill Country ranch property at auction August 30 – September 1, 2022, in cooperation with Pat Welch with Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS®.

“The auction sale of CW Ranch offers a rare opportunity to acquire a thriving income-producing business, as the established wedding venue and main lodge are highly sought-after among “brides-to-be” and vacation rental seekers,” stated Jennie Heal, president of Supreme Auctions. “With the Hill Country being home to over 100 wineries and vineyards, plus some incredible micro-breweries, residents and visitors alike enjoy endless recreational options, including Boerne’s Hill Country Mile… filled with colorful storefronts, art galleries, culinary delights, and historic buildings.”

With an unbridled sense of wonder, let your imagination soar as you gaze upon the over 66+ acres of endless possibilities. This traditional ranch dazzles with its sprawling main lodge (which is selling fully furnished), secondary home, entertainment/wedding venue, foreman’s house, guest cottage, two swimming pools, flower shop, workshop/toy barn, seasonal spring-fed creek, water catchment system, and vineyard-ready irrigated fields.

“This homestead is prime property with gorgeous views, lots of oak trees, rolling grazing fields, and rustic elegance, creating the perfect backdrop for your dream getaway,” stated listing agent Pat Welch. “Combined with the quiet seclusion, beauty of the property, and the park-like atmosphere filled with wildlife, you can’t go wrong with CW Ranch.”

The CW Ranch’s main lodge is primely situated on the property with a large, covered patio and extended deck to enjoy the warm Texas air. The outdoor areas of the lodge provide the ideal environment to relax by the pool, host large gatherings, or simply soak in the Texas Hill Country views. Just across from the main lodge is a secondary home that also enjoys stunning panoramic views and a private pool. An ancillary drive provides access to the existing wedding/entertainment venue, an active revenue-generating business for the current owners. Supporting the wedding venue is a workshop/toy barn, a flower shop, foreman’s house, and guest cottage.

“It has been a blessed experience raising our family at CW Ranch,” stated the current owner. “This homestead was perfect for raising our family, holiday celebrations, and offering peace, quiet, and tranquility throughout the property. As a bonus, we could jump in the car and be in San Antonio in less than an hour or at our favorite restaurant in 15-20 minutes. This ranch has everything and more.”

The CW Ranch provides the perfect setting for ranchers, families, and events in the heart of Texas Hill Country. This distinctive property will be sold at an auction August 30 – September 1, 2022, to the highest bidder. To learn more, contact Supreme Auctions at (866) 929-2243 or visit the Property Details page.

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Featured Property: St. Thomas, Virgin Islands

The expansive nine-acre estate includes four homes and boasts a total of 18 bedrooms, 14 baths, two infinity pools and 25,490 square feet of luxury and privacy across 11 parcels.  Tropical walkways bursting with royal palms and native plants connect all four homes. The real treasure among these are the two waterfront villas, both with direct water access.  Stone staircases, as well as two trams with intermediate stops, allow you to descend all the way to the turquoise ocean below.

As you enter the main villa, the tasteful and elegant furnishings will usher you to another era.  Magnificent architecture, enchanting stonework, unique hardwoods, and a prized collection of antiques evokes feelings of nostalgia, grandeur, and adventure.  Each room has a distinct persona and story of its own, from the 800 square foot great hall to the wine grotto, all brought together by the old-world charm of a Caribbean estate aesthetic. The fun truly begins as you step outside and explore the many terraces and verandas overlooking Charlotte Amalie harbor.

Try your hand at shooting one of the two working water cannons straight into the Caribbean Sea.  Relax on the lounge deck or soak in the infinity pool.  Take a stroll along the gorgeous 50-foot white sand beach.  Watch the sunset over Hassel Island on your own private 80-foot dock.  Enjoy the Caribbean’s most spectacular music and light show courtesy of the estate’s terraced waterfall, which features 10 jumping jets, eight fire braziers, 17 falls, a fog machine, more than 100 LED lights and a holographic water screen. 

Whether you’re interested in an exceptional island getaway or the ultimate place to entertain, this captivating property will exceed your expectations. 

Property Details:

 Main Villa –

  • 5 Bedrooms
  • 5 Full Baths / 2 Powder Rooms
  • 6,500 Total Square Feet
  • Infinity Pool (1,630 Cubic Feet)

Guest House Cottage –

  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 2 Full Baths / 1 Powder Room
  • 2,400 Total Square Feet

Second Villa –

  • 6 Bedrooms
  • 5 Full Baths / 1 Powder Room
  • 4,400 Total Square Feet
  • Infinity Pool (2,750 Cubic Feet)
  • Two Car Garage

Third Home –

  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Full Baths

Visit the full listing here

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Miami’s Arsht Estate

Miami’s Arsht Estate: a magnificent 4+ acre parcel directly on Biscayne Bay that is comprised of 2 homes, each w/ sweeping views of Key Biscayne, and downtown Miami. The main residence, Indian Spring, was built in 1999 & designed for entertaining w/formal living room, Grand Salon, dining room, & Garden Room overlooking the terrace, pool, & bay.

Arsht Estate Miami

It includes a gourmet kitchen, office, 5BR/5BA/4½ BA, + 2 BR/2 BA guest suite, 6-car gar & tennis court. Villa Serena was built by W J Bryan in 1913 & has been expertly restored. Astonishing views are captured from the living room, dining room, sitting rooms, primary BR, office, & 2nd floor BRs. Across the lush grounds find a 2-BR guesthouse atop a 3-car gar. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity in the heart of Miami.

Arsht Estate Miami

Join us on Instagram @uniquehomes_media

Wednesday, June 8, 2022, noon ET

For a LIVE tour of this home!

 

For pricing, more photos and information view the full listing here: Arsht Estate.

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Feeling the Light

By Camilla McLaughlin

As COVID-19 reset consumer appreciation for all things related to wellness, demand for in-home products from Pelotons to saunas hit record levels.

Lady Gaga is reportedly a sauna fan, along with a raft of celebs, including Jennifer Anniston and Gwyneth Paltrow. Sessions in an infrared sauna, dubbed sauna bathing, are the latest in wellness, and celebrities are not the only ones looking for a boost. Instead of raising the temperature in the air using heated stones or other sources, this modality uses infrared light to create heat within the body and does so at lower temperatures than traditional saunas, which typically are in the 200-degree Fahrenheit range.

While they lack the lore and romanticism associated with their Scandinavian peers, saunas using infrared light instead of thermal heat are gaining advocates and a growing share of wellness dollars. By mid-2021, Sunlighten, a manufacturer with a 20-year track record, reported that overall sales nationwide were up more than 60 percent over 2020’s record. By mid-summer, sales were up 30 percent in California, Texas and Florida. Even industry veterans such as Sunlighten founder Connie Zack were surprised by these increases in warm-weather states.

Anyone who has spent time in the sun has experienced infrared. Approximately 52 to 55 percent of sunlight consists of infrared rays. On the electromagnetic spectrum, a continuum of light waves organized by how they interact with matter, infrared falls just below red, the last visible light on the low end of the spectrum. The term refers to a range of waves — near, mid and far — determined by the wave size, frequency and amount of energy. Near infrared is the shortest wavelength and is credited with skin renewal. Mid is believed to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Far infrared penetrates deeper and even helps burn calories and promotes relaxation.

Clearlight

Although traditional saunas have long been considered restorative, infrared is purported to be more than just a feel-good experience and is credited with a range of effects, including boosting immunity and aiding in muscle recovery, according to the industry. While many infrared saunas just use far infrared, some combine all three waves, which manufacturers say enhances e­fficacy.

“We were the first sauna company to combine carbon and ceramic to create a superior infrared wavelength that deeply penetrates your body. The ceramic/carbon combination is unsurpassed in providing superior detoxification, stress-reduction, immunity boost, relief of joint pain and muscle soreness, relaxation and a host of other health benefits,” says Bruce Weinberg, director of marketing for Clearlight Infrared, manufacturers of Jacuzzi brand saunas.

Clearlight units also cancel out all electromagnetic fields, energy waves with frequencies below 300 hertz per second. Sunlighten, according to Zack, used clinical studies to determine how to combine all three wavelengths to bring the most benefit and also how to incorporate six different wellness benefits into the programs built into the saunas.

A typical 30-minute infrared session raises core body temperature approximately 3 degrees, an effect similar to a cardio workout. Manufacturers tout a number of benefits, and there is some research to back up these claims. In some countries, infrared is seen as therapeutic. “In Japan, infrared sauna is an accepted and standard therapy of heart disease and is even prescribed, because it is shown to improve the function of the cells that line the arteries and their blood flow,” explained Joel Kahn, MD, a cardiologist and clinical professor of medicine at Wayne State University School of Medicine.

Residential units are available in a range of sizes and configurations and are typically fabricated using Eucalyptus, Western Red Canadian Cedar or North American Basswood. Placement outside the home is also an option. Sunlighten also makes a portable unit that accommodates a single user, as well as a handheld device that directs rays to a specific place on the body.

The bottom line: It’s hard to discount the feel-good effect users report.

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Stunning Lakefront Estate to be Offered at Auction May 24-26 with Supreme Auctions

Take a step into the extraordinary with the waterfront world-class combination of timeless architecture, design, and custom craftsmanship of Stonecrest Shores. Discover why the likes of Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong were drawn to Lake Tippecanoe, and the small-town charm of Leesburg that captures the attention of discerning homeowners. This showcase lakeside home will be offered at auction May 24-26, 2022, with Supreme Auctions in cooperation with Deb Paton-Showley of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group.

“Lovingly referred to by its residents as Lake Tippy, the area is a highly sought-after retreat from Fort Wayne and Indianapolis accommodating notable families throughout the year,” stated Jennie Heal, president of Supreme Auctions. “Stonecrest Shores is perfectly poised on the banks of Lake Tippy providing a serene and relaxing setting to enjoy a variety of activities both on and off the lake. It is after all Indiana’s deepest natural lake. In addition, The Tippecanoe Lake Country Club provides the community with time-honored traditions, an 18-hole private golf course, and a renowned location for celebrated events and lakeside dining.”

Wonder and delight will captivate your imagination as you take in all that this property has to offer. Everything from the soothing lake views to the enchanting koi pond, to the rich landscaping will transport you to a place of peacefulness, well-being, and private bliss. Stonecrest Shores has everything you could ever wish for and more with its six bedrooms, four bathrooms, open-concept kitchen, exercise room, home theater, great room, master executive office, family room, and library, as well as extensive patio and porch areas that lead to the deck, pier, and shoreline.

“I am thrilled to be working with Supreme Auctions on the sale of this property. The home is very grand, memorable, prestigious, and overlooks Lake Tippecanoe from a pinnacle spot on the lake,” stated agent, Deb Paton-Showley. “Sunrise lake views are found here in plentitude. Not to mention that the home’s construction is completely custom and high-end. The builder Larry Coplen Custom Homes, remains one of the premier builders in the area.”

Tucked into the Gateway of the Lakes, Stonecrest Shores offers small-town charm and Old-World nostalgia with its paved brick streets and historic traditions in Leesburg, Indiana. The cobblestone roads welcome visitors all year long, especially on Memorial Day and Fourth of July where brilliant fireworks are displayed over Lake Tippecanoe. It’s no wonder that people were once drawn to the now prominent historic location of the Tippy Dance Hall, which hosted many an evening of dancing and singing with legendary musical artists like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong.

Skillfully situated to provide the owner with an unparalleled retreat from the day-to-day distractions of the world beyond its shores, this home will fulfill every desire as a destination to relax, renew, and rejuvenate. You cannot help but be captivated from the moment you arrive. Whether entering through the grand circular brick-paved driveway with its signature fountain, or by boat from the lake, this home will thrill the mind and inspire the soul.

“Stonecrest Shores is elegant, charming, and beautiful,” stated the current owner. “With the serenity of the lake and uniqueness of the home itself, this property is the ideal selection for the discriminating owner. The well-maintained elegance and large lake frontage with a fantastic view are key selling points that will entice the imagination of any potential buyer.”

Defining upscale luxury living on the highly desired waterfront area of Lake Tippecanoe, Stonecrest Shores will be sold at an auction May 24-26, 2022, to the highest bidder. To learn more, please contact Supreme Auctions at (866) 929-2243 or visit SupremeAuctions.com.

About Supreme Auctions

Supreme Auctions, the firm who started the Luxury Real Estate Auction Industry, is a leader in luxury real estate property auctions, providing proprietary accelerated marketing services unique to each distinctive property represented and sold. The company has a dedicated team of auction marketing professionals that provide decades of expertise, integrity, and knowledge. As the Architects of the Industry™, Supreme Auctions provides the highest level of service to both sellers and buyers of multimillion-dollar luxury properties by combining experience with the most current technology and marketing resources. The company offers sellers and luxury brokerages worldwide the optimal auction strategy to ideally suit each exclusive property, providing services that are unparalleled in the luxury real estate auction industry.

Jennie Heal
Supreme Auctions
+1 866-929-2243
email us here
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6.25 Acres of Excellence in Scottsdale

This estate is a beautiful expression of ranch hacienda-style architecture. Designed by acclaimed architect John Sather of Swaback Partners, it was built with the highest quality materials and workmanship, and every room reflects extraordinary attention to detail. Nestled on six acres on the side of the McDowell Mountains – and backing onto a nature preserve – the property is truly a mountainside sanctuary that offers both privacy and an organic connection to the Sonoran Desert.

The entrance speaks volumes about what’s inside. The imposing arched front door with seeded-glass panels was custom crafted of reclaimed materials by La Puerta of Santa Fe, and the two-story entryway features a commanding chandelier fabricated by the trade-only designer Paul Ferrante. The hardwood floors in the house are made of distressed hickory, and they perfectly compliment the artisanal plasterwork on the walls. Imported from Italy, the Albertini windows and glass-paneled doors, with their rich burnt-pine finish, are another strong design element. Tucson-based Taber & Co. made the bespoke in-wall mesquite cabinets in the living room, and the custom interior doors are also solid mesquite.

Attention to detail is found throughout. The twin custom granite sinks in the kitchen feature integrated drain boards chiseled into the countertop – no dish racks needed. To reduce back strain when rolling dough, chopping vegetables, or doing other prep work, the center island was set at an above-standard 42” height. Electric outlets throughout the house were faux painted to match the surrounding walls and backsplashes. The three decorative panels on each interior door were deliberately sized so that the door lever is perfectly centered on the door rail. And the massive living room fireplace surround was entirely assembled from book-matched marble slabs, to stunning effect.

Many of the rooms are worthy of special mention. Befitting a movie producer who wants to experience films in the best possible way, the 10-seat tiered theater is equipped with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems designed by Shen Milsom & Wilke, a world-class engineering firm. Next to the theater on the lower level is a 2,000-bottle wine cellar, whose rustic stone walls help maintain ideal temperature and humidity levels for long-term storage. Also on the “play” level is a game room that can accommodate all sorts of toys, which currently include a pool table, juke box, Skee-Ball alley, Harley-themed pinball machine and poker table.

The spacious Primary Suite was designed to achieve just the right balance between privacy and togetherness. The suite has a common bedroom but completely separate dual bathrooms and dual closets. The suite also includes a room for luggage storage and a private patio with a fireplace and whirlpool.

Located in a stand-alone structure a little further up the mountain, the Spa is another noteworthy space. On one side is a fully equipped exercise room with wall-to-wall French doors and transom windows that wash the room with light and offer lovely views of a desert garden. On the other side is an intimate massage room with an exquisite domed mosaic ceiling.

How many homes have an ADA-compliant bedroom suite? This one does. All of the light switches are set at ADA height, the bathroom vanity is ADA accessible, and there are grab bars at the commode and in the shower. A commercial-grade elevator serves all three floors and is also ADA-compliant.

The exterior spaces are equally impressive. Berghoff Design Group did the landscaping, which features a virtual arboretum of mature, thriving ironwood, palo verde, mesquite, and Texas ebony trees, all native to the Desert Southwest. These trees form a natural canopy and add to the overall sense of privacy which characterizes this property. The fountains are genuine antiques, and an inviting bougainvillea-lined walkway made from reclaimed stone leads to the main entrance. 

Coming Soon on MLS info: 

https://www.flexmls.com/link.html?1o78de5c3cx6,12,1

Video: https://vimeo.com/648347361

Property Website

https://azingrealtymedia.hd.pics/10738-E-Diamond-Rim-Drive

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Aquatic Accomodations

There is no greater magnet for the hospitality industry than the sea, with towering hotels crowding the world’s finest stretches of beach, from the Côte d’Azur to Waikiki. For most travelers, a view of the ocean is the ultimate amenity, but luxury hotels that float or are submerged beneath the surface of the sea provide otherworldly experiences.

Floating is a term of art. There are some hotels that literally float, like The FloatHouse River Kwai in Thailand or the Off Paris Seine that is moored on the banks of the City of Light’s signature river. Others merely provide the illusion of floating, such as tropical overwater bungalows — these are quintessential French Polynesian accommodations but are found in the Maldives, Seychelles and Caribbean as well — where the design is fully integrated with the sea. Yet another category are hotels whose rooms or restaurants are submerged in the sea, providing guests with the underwater experience of coexisting with tropical fish amidst a coral reef.

The clubby Off floats on the Seine between the Right and Left Banks of Paris, not far from Gare d’Austerlitz in the up-and-coming 13th arrondissement. While the neighborhood is buzzing with fashionable bistros and nightspots, the barge-like Off provides an onboard restaurant and bar, even a lap pool. Those who splurge can choose between two fashionable suites whose décor was authored by designers Maurizio Galante and Tal Lancman.

Exotic species viewed from an elaborate underwater suite at Atlantis, The Palm. Above image and featured image:  © ATLANTIS, THE PALM; photos by Victor Romero

An underwater guestroom at The Manta Resort off the coast of Tanzania. Photo courtesy of the Manta Resort.

With its recent grand opening, Resorts World’s glitzy new $4.3 billion property is the latest hot spot on the Las Vegas Strip, but the company’s resort on Sentosa Island, Singapore is even more elaborate. It encompasses multiple hotels — among them the elite Crockfords Tower, the postmodern Hotel Michael and Hard Rock — along with several theme parks, a convention center and casino. The property’s Beach Villas hotel offers 11 two-story Ocean Suites that immerse their guests into an exotic ocean habitat. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an undersea view of more than 70 species of marine animals amidst luxury accommodations enhanced by personalized butler service.

Offering the best of both worlds is The Manta Resort in Tanzania — it is located on Pemba Island amidst some stunning turquoise-hued waters — and its three-level floating suite is anchored to the ocean floor off the coast of Africa. Above water, guests enjoy a gentle rafting effect and panoramic views, but in the bedroom below they are treated to the eyepopping aquatic habitat of this corner of the Indian Ocean. Pemba Island is one of the world’s premier diving areas, but guests at The Manta’s underwater room can experience the same thrills without ever putting on a wetsuit. 

The Manta Resort’s own Kwanini Foundation is actively involved in protecting the rich marine habitat of Pemba Island, whose reefs are among the most diverse in East Africa. Rapidly increasing population is creating an unsustainable demand for fish, and the foundation is fighting to eliminate destructive practices like dynamite fishing near vulnerable reefs, as well as educating people on climate change and plastic pollution. These conservation efforts not only preserve the natural beauty of Pemba Island, but ensure the magic of The Manta Resort’s underwater accommodations as well.

Perhaps the most audacious example of a hotel with an underwater feature is the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland in China. Constructed at an artificial lake created at an abandoned quarry, most of the sleek, curvaceous structure is technically below grade, with 16 stories built into a subterranean cliff. All of the 336 rooms benefit from spectacular views of the lake and the property’s dramatically illuminated waterfalls and fountains.

One spectacular two-level suite at Shanghai Wonderland features an enclosed living room with outdoor terrace hovering just above the water, while its bedrooms are submerged beneath the lake’s surface, encased in a giant underwater aquarium. Lin Wang, chief marketing officer for IHG, Greater China, commented: “We’re delighted to be joining forces with Shimao Group [developer] again to open InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland — an architectural masterpiece that’s a wonder and beauty in the global hospitality industry.”

When it comes to underwater hotel restaurants, New Zealand civil engineer Mike Murphy is a pioneering force responsible for some of the most dramatic designs. His first underwater restaurant project, Ithaa, opened in 2005 and remains a stunning dining space in the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort. A decade later, Murphy completed the design for his largest underwater dining venue, named 5.8 Undersea Restaurant — it sits 5.8 meters beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean — at the Hurawalhi Island Resort in the Maldives. “Many projects must be canceled, as the sites aren’t suitable or the client desires a room size that’s unrealistically large,” explains Murphy of his niche specialty. 

Despite his disciplined training as an engineer, Murphy appreciates the visceral reaction people experience in these underwater spaces. “Their mouths open in awe, they almost gasp in wonder at the beautiful underwater scene in front of them,” he says, and adds, “I, too, always get this feeling when I go down into these undersea rooms.”

The Hurawalhi project benefitted from advancements in fabrication, transportation and the availability of larger crane ships, reports Murphy, who notes these ventures work best in locations protected from severe waves or storm surges, generally inside a coral reef or protected harbor. “The design of the acrylic windows and arches is very important,” says the engineer, who explains, “The deeper you go in the water, the greater the pressure, and hence the thicker you must make the windows … and the more expensive it gets.” 

Murphy designed the largest underwater project to date, a villa at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island called The Muraka, a spectacular suite whose room rate begins at $9,999 per night. “Driven by our inspiration to deliver innovative and transformative experiences to our global travelers, the world’s first undersea residence encourages guests to explore the Maldives from an entirely new perspective below the surface of the sea,” said Ahmed Saleem of the Crown Company, which collaborated with the engineer on the
$15 million project. Murphy, who retired a few years ago at age 70, continues to receive proposals for projects and is hoping his design for the world’s first revolving underwater restaurant will be realized.  

Above, the view from an Ocean Suite at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore. Photo courtesy of RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA SINGAPORE.

At far left, an underwater suite at the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland. 

Above, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, constructed at an abandoned quarry. Photos courtesy of InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland.

The FloatHouse River Kwai is a bona fide floating resort in Thailand, a country where floating homes and markets are not particularly unusual. The hotel’s string of thatched roof villas is essentially a lengthy pontoon boat parked along the river made famous by the novel and Oscar-winning movie Bridge on the River Kwai. Each villa provides nearly 1,000 square feet of comfort appointed with teak furniture and features a private terrace with a swing from which to lazily watch the slowly passing riverboats.

The luxurious Taj Lake Palace hotel is not technically floating on India’s Lake Pichola, but most certainly appears to be. The artificial lake, which was created in the 14th century, has several islands, and the white marble-clad structure — it was originally a summer palace for the ruling dynasty of Mewar — was constructed on one of them in 1746. The palace was designed in a manner that makes it look like an ornate floating raft, and while the illusion is convincing, nobody gets seasick. The hotel oozes elegance and romance, and the most extravagant suites, with hand-painted ceilings, crystal chandeliers and panoramic water views, are indeed palatial.

In a city that specializes in over-the-top experiences, Dubai’s 1,500-room Atlantis, The Palm offers a 1,775-square-foot underwater suite with floor-to-ceiling windows for viewing the resort’s signature aquarium, stocked with 65,000 marine animals. A guest lying on the bed or relaxing in the marble bath will be mesmerized by sharks, stingrays and vibrantly hued tropical fish sailing past. A private elevator ascends to the suite’s intimate lounge, offering surface views of a lagoon, and guests’ needs are attended to by a dedicated butler.

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Breathtaking in Fort Lauderdale

By Camilla McLaughlin

Designed to make best use of a generous waterfront site in coveted Bay Colony while also ensuring privacy, 10 Compass Road offers optimum views and thoughtful connections with the landscape. The elevation is imposing while also perfectly in sync with the setting. Step inside and it is equally breathtaking.

“Upon walking into this home you are immediately speechless by the grandeur of the 35-foot ceilings and open floor plan, accompanied by the massive glass wall overlooking the pool and water,” says Gilles Rais with Coldwell Banker Realty in Fort Lauderdale.

Extensive amenities include a clubroom with a bar area. Particularly striking is the bar top comprised of a rare onyx that is dramatically backlit.

The ultramodern architecture is stunning, but a well-conceived layout and thoughtful finishes ensure it doesn’t overwhelm. The open design carves out private areas, while a liberal use of natural materials and greenery lend a sense of warmth throughout. Extensive amenities make it exceptional for entertaining, but family was an equally important consideration in the vision.

Extensive amenities include a clubroom with a bar area. Particularly striking is the bar top comprised of a rare onyx that is dramatically backlit. Other amenities include an office, theater, a gym, a glass elevator, outdoor kitchen, pool and outdoor dining. Set on a deepwater basin that connects to the Intracoastal, the property offers an 89-foot-long dock.

Beginning with a location in a much-desired enclave of only 110 homes, privacy is another important characteristic of this property. Bay Colony, according to Rais, is one of the few waterfront communities that is guard gated 24/7. Each home is sited on a basin or canal, and the entire community is surrounded by water.

“In fact,” Rais says “there is really only one road into the development, and finding a waterfront community with this amount of security is a rarity.” Privacy also informed the design of the home, with six bedrooms and baths distributed on multiple levels, including several guest rooms. One, located on the top level of the home, includes a sitting room.

Each bedroom is paired with an en suite and also accesses a terrace or outdoor space.

Each bedroom is paired with an en suite and also accesses a terrace or outdoor space. Some, such as the children’s room, include lofts, just some of the whimsical elements tucked into the home. All of the baths are beautifully appointed and indulgent.

The primary suite occupies a large part of the lower level and includes an indulgent bath with skylights and separate dressing areas. Particularly interesting are the closets, which are showcased as luxury boutiques. A glass-enclosed shower is surrounded by lush greenery on one side. An extensive smart home system automates everything, including lighting, shades, security and audio. Everything can be activated or turned with a single control from any location.

Location is still most important, and this home is minutes from one of the best schools in Florida.

The executive airport is also an easy drive, which means it’s only about a 15-minute journey from the tarmac to your home. The home was recently refurbished, so everything is less than two years old. Rais points out, it is like buying a newly constructed home without waiting years to complete construction.

And it can be purchased furnished, making it turnkey … an even more extraordinary find.

 

10 Compass Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL

6 bedrooms, 7 full baths

$12,900,000

 

Represented by: Gilles Rais

Coldwell Banker Realty

T. 954.304.1579

gilles@gillesrais.com

gillesraisfinehomes.com

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