The perfect home finds a balance between style and substance.
Style or substance? The perfect home finds a balance between both of these concepts, and this newly built mountain residence is no exception. 1548 Explorer Peak Drive, located inside the Red Ledges residential development in Heber City, Utah, was carefully sited on a dynamic hillside to optimize unobstructed views of Mt. Timpanogos. Its architectural design pairs with hand-selected materials and luxury finishes, perfect for retreat seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Every detail of this home creates a seamless transition from indoors to out. Abundant natural light is cast through the home’s soaring windows, while the vast outdoor living areas are situated to connect the home to nature’s beauty. The expansive indoor/outdoor living spaces, featuring a custom spa, fire pit, fireplace, and more, make this home perfect for both entertaining and relaxing, with stunning mountain views as the ideal backdrop. Interior features that capture attention as much as the surrounding beauty include French oak flooring, a gourmet kitchen with a waterfall quartz island, and a large main-floor master suite.
With its coveted location in the Heber Valley in the heart of Utah’s Wasatch Back mountain recreation mecca, Red Ledges offers an active outdoor lifestyle, according to Mitchel Burns, Red Ledges chief operating officer. “Members come together and immerse themselves in some of the most beautiful — and accessible — natural habitats in the world.” Red Ledges offers such outdoor attractions as world championship mountain biking, world-class fly fishing, boating, hiking trails and more.
Management at Red Ledges agrees that those who find a place at Red Ledges not only share in the coveted mountain lifestyle, they also form close kinships with their neighbors. “Lifelong friendships develop as members laugh and play together and create the real personal connection for which Red Ledges is known,” says John “JJ” Johnson, Red Ledges Club general manager. For $3.595 million, one can find peace of mind at this contemporary mountain haven with enough style and substance for all.
Photo courtesy of Sofas & Stuff
From dusty lilac to vibrant mango, 2020 is the year of experimenting with color.
With spring in full bloom, flowers of every color are popping up in every corner. From pastel tulips to vibrant primrose, who doesn’t love the season’s natural beauty? It’s the perfect time of the year to take advantage of the sense of renewal spring has to offer, and bring the outdoors inside by freshening up your bedroom with this year’s color trends.
Red Pepper
What better way to make a statement than by incorporating elements of red pepper into your bedroom? If you’re feeling adventurous, contrast red with cool tones such as navy blue, dark green and white. You can also pair the color with warmer tones of beige, light pink and pale yellow to make any space more inviting.
Photo courtesy of Mineheart
Dusty Lilac
Whether you’re looking to soften your bedroom or add a bit more femininity to an otherwise dull space, dusty lilac is a color you can count on at any time of the year. Found in flowers like tulips and hyacinth, lilac captures everything that spring is about. Because it’s an easygoing color, you can add as many elements of lilac as you want without overwhelming your space. Want to spruce up a white room but don’t want to add too much color? Try painting a dusty lilac accent wall!
Bluebird
There are countless shades of blue, but which is the best for a home in the springtime? Bluebird! Light and modern, bluebird is a color that matches perfectly with warmer tones, such as mango and red, and looks gorgeous in any style room. Decorate your bedroom with hints of bluebird by adding bedding, wall art and pillows.
Mint
Timeless, fresh and bright, mint is the go-to color for every time of the year. Need a place to put your butter yellow daffodils? Grab a mint vase, throw in a bouquet and place it near a windowsill to spruce up your space. If your bedroom doesn’t get a lot of sunlight, brighten it up by painting the walls mint.
Photo courtesy of Sweetpea & Willow
Mango
Looking to add a pop of color to any corner of your home? Mango is the shade for you! Play it safe with hints of mango, such as pillows on your bed and vases to hold fresh flowers from your garden, or go bold with a mango chair or rug that just sings “spring!”
Maroon Bells ASPEN / COLORADO
Photo: Vkoulampet / wikimedia commons
Originally named for the abundance of aspen trees in the area, Aspen’s abundance has grown exponentially in terms of luxury, from fine restaurants and world-renowned ski resorts to some of the most artistic and culturally stimulating experiences. These aspects and more are appealing to buyers and continue to shape Aspen’s diverse, high-end lifestyle.
Though the market is plentiful with a large inventory of luxury property options, the Aspen market is finite due to local and state development rules that restrict building in certain areas of the town, according to Craig Morris of Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty. “Supply and demand are always in favor of our sellers,” he says, but adds that what people want is nearly always achievable. These demands result in an interesting balance of both classic, historic homes with original architecture, and newer construction primarily built on “teardown” properties.
This interweaving of old and new structures is special to Aspen, says Carrie Wells of Coldwell Banker Mason Morse Real Estate, as it further adds to the character of the town and continues to bring in affluent buyers seeking luxury amenities. She notes that particularly in downtown Aspen, the “core,” new residential developments are not permitted and current properties have become more valuable. Wells, and other agents like Robert Ritchie of Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty, say buyers have grown to cultivate lifestyles in Aspen to fit their own needs. Bespoke estates are either renovated internally, increasing their worth, or new homes are being built more beautiful and upscale than the last. Though Aspen seems to be constantly changing, Ritchie says changes help “shine it up” and ultimately makes the town look good.
And truly, “looking good” is an understatement when considering the luxury and culture that exist in every corner of the city. From an exclusive G650 club and top-rated restaurants to a variety of world-class ski resorts and outdoor amenities, Aspen’s elite can find their true home in a place like this. Whether you hit the slopes or visit the Aspen Music Festival every year, Aspen is a place that can fit any lifestyle, which to buyers is often a priority. “We live in our own little fantasy world and people often suggest that living here is not ‘the real world,’” Morris says. “It’s the ‘real world’ to those that decide to put living and lifestyle at the top of their list, and when they do, they never look back.”
Colorado
Carrie Wells
Coldwell Banker Mason Morse Real Estate
970.948.6750
carrie@carriewells.com
Page 54 & H&E 161
Colorado
Craig Morris
Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty
970.379.9795
craig.morris@sothebysrealty.com
Pages 52-53
Colorado
Robert Ritchie
Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty
970.379.1500
Robert.Ritchie@sothebysrealty.com
THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN THE GLOBAL 2019 ISSUE OF UNIQUE HOMES. TO SEE THE DIGITAL VERSION OF THIS STORY, CLICK HERE.
In an exceptional lakefront location, with panoramic views of Lake Michigan, this incomparable French Regency residence, in Winnetka, Illinois, remains a vestige of the historic, grand estates of Chicago’s North Shore.
“It was built in 1913 and designed by notable Chicago architect Benjamin Marshall,” says Mary Ann Kollar and Betsy Burke of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago who are listing the property for 3.999999 million.
The current owners, in collaboration with prestigious architects and engineers, recently undertook a three-year restoration and preservation of the house, grounds, bluff and shoreline, creating both a wonderful family retreat and an exceptional venue for entertaining.
“The property combines historic significance, fine architectural details, impeccable updating and maintenance, and solid structural elements.” Say Kollar and Burke “It is for the buyer who enjoys the extraordinary in a treasured waterfront landscape.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF VRBO
More travelers than ever seem to be eschewing traditional hotels and considering lavish vacation rentals for more authentic and comfortable experiences.
Vacation rentals, from cottages to castles, can elevate the overall experience of traveling while avoiding that unsettled feeling of being away from home. Travelers can relish in the privacy of their own space and choose a rental that offers the peace and downtime traveling requires, all the while taking advantage of the same amenities and luxuries offered at a hotel or resort.
“The best luxury rentals can offer fine architecture, artwork, and furnishings that can rival the decor of any 5-star hotel, but without the transient feeling of being in a hotel. It’s as if you’re living in a place that is meant to be lived in, which can emphasize the sense of a place,” says Carol Perehudoff, an award-winning travel writer based in Toronto for the travel site Wandering Carol.
Whether you’re staying for the weekend or a few weeks, skip hotel rooms that can feel secluded and away from the excitement and embrace the idea of your own schedule and space.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VRBO
An Authentic Experience
Luxury travelers are looking for a more authentic adventure when they visit a new place. They want to experience profound architecture, personalized activities, and the overall culture in an area. “Travelers can have an all-inclusive resort-like experience with the added bonus of space and privacy to completely relax and spend quality time with their loved ones,” according to Alison Kwong, travel expert for Vrbo (Vacation Rental by Owner). Renting a vacation home immerses you in the surrounding culture to create your home away from home. “Oftentimes a vacation rental can be a better all-around experience. We use high-end vacation rentals as a base of operations for custom-built adventures,” says Dan Austin, the president of Austin Adventures.
Vacation rentals make authentic travel seamless. Visit hard-to-reach places or lesser-known destinations in a home rather than a hotel. Easily submerge yourself in a residential area rather than skim the surface of the commercialized options typically available for tourists. “You’re often staying in neighborhoods where residents live, rather than in tourist zones,” says Perehudoff. She describes one luxury vacation rental in Venice as being “as much of a cultural thrill as visiting a famous museum or palace.”
Space and Privacy
Space is a significant component to consider when vacationing with family and friends. There are endless rentals that sleep large groups comfortably, which means your party can stay together without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. “Vacation homes are ideal for traveling with family because they allow everyone to stay together under one roof,” says Kwong. Similarly, Austin says, “you can create a better “gather” type of environment … to create bonding moments.” He notes, “one of the biggest benefits is privacy.”
Lounge by the pool, fit in your morning workout, enjoy an afternoon snack, or take a midnight swim all in the privacy of your own space. Forget overcrowded hotel pools, spas, and restaurants when you have easy access to your own private pool, at-home theater, sauna, and other amenities.
Freedom with Amenities
Forget dining on a schedule or mid-morning interruptions. Renting a home offers the desired freedom on a vacation that runs on your own schedule, without sacrificing any of the luxuries. “Travelers can still enjoy special amenities, like private chefs, daily housekeeping and concierge services that organize itineraries full of activities personalized for guests and their families,” says Kwong. Everything from welcome baskets to day excursions and transportation are available.
The Right Choice
Vacation rentals can provide accommodations for groups without the financial strain of booking several hotel rooms. Family and friends can split the cost of a home with the added bonus of endless amenities at your fingertips. “Travelers are increasingly drawn to vacation homes instead of hotels or resorts when going on family or group trips because vacation homes provide the same value at a compelling rate. When renting an entire vacation home, travelers also have access to more space and privacy, better amenities, and the chance to stay in some truly unique properties that aren’t available just anywhere,” according to Kwong.
©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / SHIRONOSOV
Vacation rentals are perfect for large parties who want to create gather experiences without feeling crowded.
Hotels can become a necessity rather than a welcome addition to your travels. Vacation rental companies have their own special niche, while the overall goal of each is to craft a unique, authentic experience for travelers.
Companies with a Purpose
Vrbo is based on the more traditional sense of a vacation rental. Families and friends are offered the privacy that large gatherings crave. Forget overloaded resorts and stuffy hotel lobbies. Instead, stretch out in front of your own fireplace with a book, make a cocktail in your private kitchen, and head out to the pool or spa where you and your guests can relax in privacy.
“Over the last 25 years, Vrbo has grown into a global community of homeowners and travelers with more than 2 million unique properties around the world, ranging from cabins to beach houses and every kind of space in between,” says Kwong. The site began in 1995 and has only expanded over the years, now offering easy-to-use technology to plan a dream vacation.
©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / SHIRONOSOV
Rental sites offer the opportunity to stay in one-of-a-kind homes all over the world for a unique experience.
“One of the newest features Vrbo has added to the site are virtual tours, which pro-vide immersive, 360-degree views of vacation rental properties directly from the listing page,” according to Kwong. “Vrbo makes planning a trip together feel as effortless and enjoyable as being on one. Recently introduced, trip boards is a collaborative tool that allows multiple people to share, vote and collaborate about their favorite properties. That way, everyone is involved in the decision-making process and travelers feel confident that the vacation rental they choose is suitable for everyone.”
The trusted brand Airbnb is one of the more well-known services when renting a space, whether it’s for vacation or business. The luxury facet of the company, Airbnb Luxe, offers a trip designer for personalized activities that are specifically crafted for you and your guests. In tandem with activities and amenities, these ultra-luxury properties appeal to those with an interest in design and have been carefully chosen for that very reason.
PlansMatter is a platform that provides architecturally significant hotels and vacation homes for rent. For those with a special interest in spectacular architecture, travelers can choose from the likes of Pole House, a home in Australia that is suspended 40 meters above Fairhaven Beach; Vila Vals in Switzerland, which is built directly into the mountain scenery; the circular Solo House in Spain, and many more. “One of the highlights of a vacation rental is being able to get away from the crowds and enjoy more natural surroundings,” says Perehudoff. This is a component that can be overlooked when the simple convenience of a hotel is presented.
PlansMatter provides comprehensive information about architects and the properties that will boost the overall experience from the very start of a trip. Everything needed to decide, from photos and customer reviews to blueprints of the home, even a chance to read about the architects, is available.
Vacation rentals are growing in popularity today as a smarter way to travel for groups and for those searching for an authentic experience, but the concept has long attracted savvy and avid travelers. Founded in 1986, Windows on Italy carefully selects prestigious villas and apartments throughout Italy. From Florence to Rome, the countryside to the seaside, rentals with private pools, frescoed lofts, antiques and more will enchant travelers. The brand is another that focuses on one-of-a-kind, top-tier properties that heighten the overall travel experience.
©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / SHIRONOSOV
Experience profound architecture when staying in homes such as this gorgeous Scottsdale, Arizona property.
This editorial originally appeared in The High End Winter 2020.
This Florida Keys home is the perfect blend of serenity and luxury.
A perfect place to escape, relax, and unwind as a family away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this 4,870-square-foot, four-bedroom, five-full and two-half-bath home was designed in harmony with panoramic water views. The home was designed as a transitional space, dictated by the style and taste of the homeowner, from traditional to contemporary. The current homeowner has chosen a more contemporary decor so nothing detracts from his eclectic art collection or from the views.
From the moment you enter the home you are instantly transported to a serene, peaceful, and timeless space. The open floor plan includes a spacious living area, which flows seamlessly into the kitchen, dining, and bar area. The kitchen features Amazonite granite and quartz countertops, a circular dining room table, and a low-slung wet bar that’s angled out to optimize water views, all while perfectly placed underneath the vaulted barrel ceiling.
On the first floor, there are three beautiful bedrooms with en suite baths. A staircase leads down to an enclosed garage that offers multiple entertainment spaces for kids and family, and numerous doors that open to an intimate backyard and keystone fire pit. Upstairs, the master bedroom boasts a wall of windows that opens to panoramic water views and a wraparound balcony.
While the exterior of the two-story home is traditional yet sophisticated, Nury Feria, principal of Design Perceptions Inc., created interiors that are “minimal, modern, clean, and comfortable.” The owners did not want anything to detract from the views and the art. The living room and kitchen open onto a spacious patio with pocket sliding glass doors. A curvaceous infinity pool with glass walls, dual fire globes, and a 16-foot cascading waterfall overlook the ocean and Buccaneer Island — one of the favorite amenities among Ocean Reef Club’s members.
Nestled on 2,500 secluded, tropical acres on the northern-most tip of Key Largo in the Florida Keys, Ocean Reef Club is considered one of the U.S.’s most unique and comprehensive communities. Located within an hour of Miami International Airport and 1.5 hours from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, Ocean Reef Club is also serviced by its own 4,456-foot lighted runway. Offering 1,700 waterfront estates, private homes, condominiums, and boat slips. Ocean Reef Club also features an oceanfront Inn, a full-service spa and salon, and an array of dining and shopping options. Leisure amenities include a 175-slip marina, two 18-hole championship golf courses, world-class tennis and lawn sports, jogging/cycling paths, a cooking school, nature center, an art league, and more.
The blended elegance of one of the world’s most exclusive and private club’s paired with one of the Florida Keys most spectacular residential properties, makes 103 Andros the perfect place to call home. Eric Woodward and Molly Taylor of Ocean Reef Club Sotheby’s International Realty are representing the property. $22,000,000.
Through a long-winding and manicured driveway, off of the Old Highway on Plantation Key in Islamorada, FL, this villa sits on two acres facing the Atlantic Ocean. With 170 feet of shoreline with deep water dockage, a boat lift and a sandy beach, it is a rare find in the Florida Keys.
The home features 8,226 square feet of living space with three levels offering six bedrooms, four and one half baths and an additional one bedroom en suite on the ground level. It also showcases an imperial staircase, gourmet kitchen, private verandas, a custom-built living room entertainment center, sub-zero Viking appliances, Versace designed lighting, and a master suite with a grand balcony. “The chef’s kitchen is our favorite room because you can entertain friends, while looking out towards the beach and ocean — watching swimmers and beach volleyball players,” says Cynthia Hughes of Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty, who is listing the property for $6.995 million.
The distinctive features of this home consist of exquisite wood and marble floors, eight-foot high solid wood doors, ironwork fixture, imported stone from Mexico, architecturally designed ceilings, and custom crafted furnishings. Additionally, each bathroom is tiled in exotic marble and mosaics, and the walls are finished with Italian-inspired, hand-drawn paintings. No detail has been missed. “This home has an old world charm with a relaxed coastal feel,” says Hughes.
Outdoors, enjoy a heated infinity pool with adjacent spa and a grilling area for the perfect outdoor host.
“This home is perfect for anyone who wants to share their island living with family and friends,” says Hughes.
This four-bedroom, four-bath condo, on Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands, is one of only 12 condos in a well-established and beautifully maintained complex. This unit, on the top floor, features 3,400 square feet, a large screened patio, two beachfront master suites and a hidden office. Completely renovated and redesigned at the end of 2018, it is virtually new.
“With only twelve units, no rentals permitted and all the amenities, this is as close as you can get to owning a house on Seven Mile Beach,” says J.C. Calhoun of Coldwell Banker Cayman Islands Realty, who is listing the property for $4.295 million. Additional features include a covered carport, private garage and use of a beachfront pool, on-site gym and tennis court.
On 4.4 acres on a pristine hilltop in Beverly, Massachusetts, this stunning 6,000-square-foot Colonial revival is surrounded by manicured lawns, meadows, extensive gardens and stone patios.
The home features six bedrooms, three full and two half baths, four wood-burning fireplaces, and many Victorian-era architectural details, including detailed moldings and plaster ceiling medallions. Additionally, the wraparound covered porches are a perfect gathering spot overlooking the outdoor garden spaces
“This home is elegant, but not overly formal,” says Patricia White of Century 21 North East who is listing the property for $2.299 million. “It has a feel for a country estate with accessibility of a neighborhood home — perfect for a growing family.”
With a view of the beach and plenty of bedrooms, this Panama home is the oasis of your dreams.
On the idyllic island of Saboga, in the Las Perlas Archipelago in Panama, this three-level, five-bedroom, five-bath house is surrounded by tropical plants and trees and overlooks a gorgeous beach. “The islands that make up the archipelago are one of the very last undeveloped island chains in the world,” says listing agent Stephanie Villarreal of Your Panama Real Estate Connection.
Conveniently located, the island has a heliport, there is a daily ferry service to Isla Saboga from Panama City, and the neighboring island of Contadora has an airstrip.
The home, which comes fully furnished and is listed for $850,000 USD, was “custom built to provide the very best in island living,” says Villarreal.
The lower level of the house has two bedrooms, each of which are small studio apartments with full kitchens — and decks and patios overlook the beach just 26 steps below. “Perfectly situated, you can enjoy a perfect balance of indoor/outdoor living,” says Villarreal.
The main level has one master bedroom, kitchen and living room and a large open deck with a pergola overlooking the beach and ocean. From here, “you can enjoy the spectacular views of the beach and ocean,” says Villarreal. “Imagine waking up in the morning, sitting on the deck and enjoying coffee — listening to the birds.” Or at the end of the day, “enjoying a fresh coconut or cocktail —and watching the sun go down.”
The upper level of the house has two bedroom suites with a shared kitchen between them. Each upper bedroom suite has a deck overlooking the beach. “This beautiful house is a perfect fit for a family looking for a change or adventure — or is well suited for anyone wanting to start a sport-fishing lodge, as the area boasts some of the best sport-fishing and an abundance of marine life,” says Villarreal. “No matter where you are in the house or the property, there is no forgetting that you are on one of the most beautiful islands in Panama.”
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