HISTORIC HOMES in FLORIDA

2012-01-31T06:08:00.000-05:00

For an afternoon of fun and a chance to learn the history of West Palm Beach while riding in a comfortable, colorful trolley, take a one-hour Historic Trolley Tour. Tour beings at the Richard and Pat Johnson Historic Museum, 300 No. Dixie Highway, corner of 3rd Street in West Palm Beach. Reserve by calling 561-833-8873.

See historic downtown buildings and landmarks. Tour guide is plays a West Palm Beach native who is engaged to a serviceman in the 1945 era as WW2 is ending. She is dressed in VIntage garb and tells a tale or two about the city's pioneer days.

Tours are given Saturdays through April 21 at 11:30 am and 12:30 pm, Fridays at 3 and 4 pm. Adults fee is $5, children 10 and under ride free.

Included in the tour is the Clematis District's vibrant development and distinctive architectural styles, covering from the early 1900's to the real estate boom of the 1920's, to today's continued revitalization.

WHITE HOUSE AMONG ZILLOW'S TOP-TEN MOST VIEWED PROPERTIES

2012-01-28T07:57:00.001-05:00

Zillow estimates list price of $261.76MM. 16 bedrooms,35 baths. 55,000 sq ft.

Built between 1972 and 1800, the White House has been the principal workplace and official home of every President since John Adams. Location is 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., perhaps the most famous address in the world.

Built by Irish-born James Hoban, it is Neoclassical style with exterior white-painted sandstone.

MELANIA's & DONALD TRUMP's LAVISH NYC PENTHOUSE

2012-01-08T23:13:00.000-05:00

Former design and architecture major Melania Trump's opulent interiors are pictured here.

Gold covers the walls and ceilings.

CONCERNED ABOUT A NUCLEAR ATTACK ON THE US? HERE IS A SOLUTION!

2011-12-21T00:06:00.001-05:00

Silo missle sites in various states have been and are being converted into underground homes.

Taxpayers spent $3.3MM for a silo in Topeka, Kasas which has been converted to underground living quarters. The silo was purchased for $40,000, in bad shape, in the 1980’s by a school teacher who, with his wife, has lived there comfortably ever after.

A 3’ layer of earth covers the top layer of reinforced concrete. Floors are 3’ thick, walls and ceilings 18” thick and 15’ high. The special concrete structure was built by the government to withstand a nuclear blast. The folks who live in it say, “We love the solid, quiet feel of the place. Not only is it very well built – it is very easy to heat and cool.” This home has a large greenhouse around the hatch, which brings sunlight into the living space and was formerly used for heavy equipment to manipulate the missiles.

About half of these former military sites are owned privately or by cities, counties, school districts, water companies and other commercial entities. This is a niche market for a unique home for real estate agents. The schoolteacher has made 55 sales, of which 5 have turned over more than once. They said that buyers include some military or former military personnel who are familiar with the silos, and know the benefits. Others are looking for interesting projects to restore, and some want the seclusion, privacy and security. Some buyers are survival-oriented.”

Mortgages and appraisals are a challenge. “Prices have increased and are rising,” they said.

A former 14.5 acre Nike missile base in southeastern Indiana has been converted to three 5,000 sq ft residential spaces. One features a kitchen, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, an exercise room indoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi tub. All have single-phase electric, city water, paved access with remote-control rolling front gates and high security chain link fencing topped with barbed wire.

An Atlas F site is for sale now in the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Diameter is 52’ and depth is 180’. It holds a 2300 sq ft 2-story contemporary home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, finished interiors, a spiral staircase, fiber-optic lighting, a generator and new well. The floor plan is open, there is a large garage and wraparound porch that hides the underground entryway. Price has been reduced from $4.6mm to $750,000. The entrance features heavy security doors that were built to withstand a 2000-lb blast. Location is on part of an exclusive airport subdivision on a 2050 foot Federal Aviation Administration-approved runway.

A communications vault in Paris, Missouri near the Mark Twain recreational lake is available, needing “fix-up”. There are 8200 sq ft of usable underground floor space on this 13-acre site. Ceilings and walls are 24” thick and 2’ to 4’ of earth cover the underground area. A metal shield envelopes the structure and there are heavy blast doors with an emergency-escape hatch exit. The property is available for $295,000. Electricity works and most rooms have heaters and dehumidifiers.

Here is a unique living style which has a following of those seeking secure homes in hardened cold war facilities.

THE BALLINGER HOUSE, a/k/a Villa Leoncini in Palm Beach

2011-12-18T03:50:00.003-05:00

Built by Addison Mizner in 1926, inspired by Lake Como villas, this fine property sits on 3/4 acres next door to Palm Beach's exclusive Bath & Tennis Club.

Featured in this Mediterranean Revival-style property are a 3-story tower, 5 bedrooms, a 2-bedroom guest house, and award-winning gardens that are a showcase of tropical plantings archived in the Smithsonian's Garden Club of America Collection. The estate was landmarked in 1985. It has a villa-like atmosphere.

The dining room features a pecky cypress beamed ceiling, fireplace and blue and white tiled walls.

The formal motor court entrance circles around the center fountain, past the 3-car garage, and up to the wrought-iron front entrance gates.

The property overlooks the Ocean.

HISTORIC HOME FOR SALE IN FLORENCE, ITALY

2011-12-17T20:21:00.001-05:00

PALAZZO TANAGLI dates back to the XVIth C. and was totally restored in 2004. It is located in Florence,Italy,just a few minutes walk to the cathedral and Ponte Vecchio.

Within 3700 sq ft you will find grand halls, hand-painted ceilings, oak wood floors and hand-painted frescoes that resound with history and radiate enchanting beauty. There are 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a grand living room, beautifully finished kitchen and office/bedroom. Beautiful balconies and terraces open up to the courtyard and street below. 2-car garage. EURO 4MM - EURO 6MM.

SINATRA HOME FOR SALE, LOADED WITH MEMORIES

2011-12-14T04:04:00.000-05:00

"Farralone," built in 1951 with 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, is on the market, where Sinatra hosted such well know celebs as Lucille Ball and Ava Gardner. Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli renewed their wedding vows there. Marilyn Monroe resided in the guesthouse and had her last photo shoot there as well as her conversations with Jack Kennedy. The estate nets between $500,000-$2M per year from movie location filming alone! List price is #12MM. Such is the price of fame, one could say!

With its 16 ft. ceilings the interior is surrounded by glass walls that open seamlessly to the outdoor spaces. The 10,000 sq. ft. main estate, surrounded by two acres of rolling lawn, is up a long, winding private road on 5.5 acres. It boasts a grand gallery and three lower level private offices complete with a conference room.

The one bedroom/1.5 bath guest house is 1,000 sq. ft. with its own pool. A detached gym is located adjacent to the stunning 50 ft. pool. Sinatra rented this house for several years and then bought it, and sold it later. Included are a conference room, gymnasium, guest house with 4 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths and 13' ceilings, offices, vineyard, pool and parking space for 200+ cars. A separate private winding road leads up the hill to this "Glass House on the Hill." The estate is spread out on 9.5 acres.

98-YEAR OLD HISTORIC HOUSE SAVED

2011-12-14T02:27:00.000-05:00

Just hours before being slated for demolition, a 98-year old Ft Lauderdale house began its move to an empty lot in Hammershee Village.

The Shippey house, occupied by Broward’s second judge Fred Shippey in 1913, will become office space at its new location on Southwest Third Avenue near the New River Inn and Fort Lauderdale Historical Society.

The exterior of the home will be restored to its 1913 state and serve as a historic site.

The Friends of Shippey House Inc. saved the building from destruction after it went into foreclosure and a New York state-based company bought the property.

MAN LEAVES PROPERTY TO US GOVERNMENT IN HIS WILL; GOVERNMENT GETS $1.2mm IN AUCTION

2011-12-12T19:22:00.001-05:00

1248 Coral Way

82 years old, and lived in by owner for 70+ years, this historic home in Miami has 3900 sq ft, 6 bedrooms and 5 baths.

Buyers at auction and another couple plan to renovate and restore the house to its former conditions in the 1920's and add some modern amenities. This will cost $1mm.

Don't miss Flamingo Park's historic home tour

2011-11-26T13:37:00.001-05:00

The above house on Flamingo Drive will be one of 9 houses on the tour.

Flamingo Park is getting all dressed up for the holidays and for its 20th anniversary. The annual neighborhood home tour features nine homes and gardens this year, all decked out for the tour and for the annual Neighborhood Holiday Lighting Contest being judged the same evening.

Flamingo Park's homes feature a variety of architectural styles, from Spanish Mission to Mediterranean Revival, most built during the real estate boom of the 1920s. Each home will offer beverages and tastings from some of the area's finest caterers and restaurants, and a homemade holiday dessert reception and candlelight concert follows the tour at 8:15 p.m. Get a bit of shopping done, and pick up a copy of Create a Stir, the Flamingo Park Neighborhood Association's cookbook, which features recipes from the kitchens of Flamingo Park homeowners.

Trolley service will be available to transport guests between the homes, but the tour is suitable for adults only (no children). Wear comfortable shoes. High heels are not allowed as they mar the wood floors.

Advance tickets are available at The Armory Art Center, 1700 Parker Ave., and Belle & Maxwell's, 3700 S. Dixie Highway, both in West Palm Beach; Sam Jon's Salon at Downtown at the Gardens, 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., Palm Beach Gardens; Park Avenue BBQ Grille, 13897 Wellington Trace, Wellington; and Sandoway House Nature Center, 142 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Cash and checks only. For credit card purchases or PayPal, purchase tickets online at flamingopark.net.

THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY FLAMINGO PARK HOLIDAY HISTORIC HOME TOUR

When: 5-8 p.m., Dec. 4

Where: Pick up tickets and tour maps in the 700 block of Claremore Drive, five blocks north of Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach.

Tickets: $25 prior to Dec. 4 and $30 at the door. Proceeds benefit the programs and services of the Flamingo Park Neighborhood Association.

Info/ Margie Yansura at (561) 820-1383; www.flamingopark.net.

Flamingo Park homes pictured may or may not be on the tour.

FORBES: MOST EXPENSIVE GATED COMMUNITIES IN AMERICA

2011-11-03T08:32:00.002-04:00

GATES AND FAMILY RENT SOUTH FLORIDA MANSION FOR 6 MONTHS

2011-10-23T02:33:00.000-04:00

Bill Gates, Microsoft co-founder, has rented a south Florida mansion within striking distance of the January thru April Winter Equestrian Festival. Daughter Jennifer, age 15, owns several prize ponies and is on the Junior Circuit and it is her interest in horses that is said to have led to this choice.

The Wellington estate in the Mallet Hill area pictured above is 7,352 sq ft, has a barn, horse training area and guarded acess road. There are 8 bedrooms, wine and media rooms. It encompasses 5 acres. The house was built in 1997. The community is gated. Gates has other homes in Seattle and Wyoming.

An option to buy this mansion is said to have been for $13MM. This rental costs $600,000 per month. Neighbors include NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Bruce Springstein.

HISTORIC HOME IN WEST PALM BEACH FOR SALE FOR MUCH LESS THAN ASSESSED VALUE - HANDYMAN SPECIAL!

2011-09-25T04:58:00.000-04:00

Built in 1946, this handyman property has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1824 living sq ft. Master bedroom is 20'x15', Living Room is 31'x14', kitchen is 11'x10'. There is no HOA and pets are allowed.

The property is located at 880 West Dolphin Ridge Road, off Florida Mango Road, below Summit. Priced at $62,000, the assessed value is over $113,000.

If you are an investor and can do the fixup, the home might bring in over $135,000. It is vacant and listed "as is". There is a refrigerator and range. Volume ceiling and fireplace are featured. There is a family room, workshop and storage area. Floors are ceramic tile. Unfurnished. 2 parking spaces in driveway.

Roof is 5 years old; windows are 5 years old. Lot size is .17 acres.

If you would like to see the property, call Marilyn at 561-302-3388 It is a short sale.

PALM BEACH’S HISTORIC STAMBAUGH COTTAGE ON THE MOVE

2011-09-22T04:00:00.000-04:00

Where will it wind up – it now sits on a barge in the Intracoastal Waterway, having been moved from the Palm Beach Country Club grounds.

Lake Worth’s City Commissioners are considering having the cottage, which housed three generations of the Stambaugh family, moved to the eastern shore of the Lake Worth Lagoon in Old Bridge Park or to a waterfront tract on the south side of the Lake Avenue Bridge. They have asked owner Joette Stambaugh Keen to give them a phased plan to move the cottage to Lake Worth within 30 days.

Palm Beach’s landmarks consultant for the Town of Palm Beach talked to the Commissioners about the “life on the lake” theme, showcasing the county’s pioneer families and the ecology of the Lake Worth Lagoon, a former freshwater lake, saying they would like the Children of the county and Lake Worth to see what life was like before air conditioning and computers. City of Lake Worth would like to find a nonprofit group to develop, staff and maintain the 1500 sq ft property if it is moved to Lake Worth. Other possible locations include Peanut Island and Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds.

PALM BEACH BUNGALOWS

2011-08-04T03:47:00.002-04:00

Front Porch bungalows lined the midtown streets of Palm Beach around the turn-of-the-century. Some still exit in Craftsman, Prairie and Arts & Crafts style. Wood and stone are emphasized, natural materials used, accommodating living quarters to get balmy ocean breezes before the days of air conditioning. Front porches were featured with vine-covered pergolas adding a rustic ambiance. Dade County pine floors prevailed along with wood beamed and pecky cypress ceilings, stone fireplaces, built-in cabinets, cupboards, bookcases and seating.

Sears produced a mail-order version between 1908 and 1921 and shipped completely packaged house kits, assembled and customized for location and client by local craftsmen. A national Craftsman Movement was sparked by Gustav Stickley, a furniture maker, who started publishing Craftsman magazine in 1901. There were more than 200 house plans, an artful blend of form, function and convenience.

The bungalow style helped break away from the late 19^th C. focus on gingerbread trim and complex formal interiors, but popularity waned by the end of World War I, supplanted by Mediterranean, Bermuda and Caribbean styled villas with stucco enclosed courtyards and ficus hedged borders. In time, storms took their toll as pergolas and picket fences vanished and were not replaced. Wood frame houses became covered with synthetic sidings and stucco, and gone forever from Palm Beach was the importance of front porch life.

GORGEOUS FRENCH-CHATEAU STYLE PROPERTY ON MARKET IN ALABAMA FOR $17,900,000

2011-07-19T11:27:00.000-04:00

Shoal Creek, Alabama is the location for this French-Chateau style house with 15 bedrooms, 22 baths, 50,000+ sq ft home on 27 acres. In addition to the main house, there are two cabana homes poolside, guest/service house, barn with living quarters, outdoor riding ring, indoor round pen, large office and lots of storage.

Featured are geothermal hvac, lutron lighting crestron control system for all electronics, Sheryl Wagner fixtures, commercial elevator, 38-seat movie theatre. Antique light fixtures, fine draperies, marble and limestone and herringbone maple floors, slate roof with copper gutters, mahogany doors and windows, 4 pastures, 6-stall barn, 2000-bottle wine cellar and much more.

The bedroom has similarities to the rooms in the Metropolitan Museum antique furniture section – simply gorgeous.

The home has the timeless design and grandeur of a European castle. The exquisite detailing of gold, silver, bronze leaf, as well as the accent painting was done by IFACTS, known for its restoration work on Buckingham Palace.

The 27-acre estate is within the Shoal Creek golf course community, which offers 24-hour security. On the market for over a year, the list price is $17,900,000.

GLENN BECK’S NEW HOME IN DALLAS

2011-07-12T07:18:00.000-04:00

Keeping his new company, GBTV, in New York, TV celebrity Glenn Beck is now renting a home at $20,000/month, in Westlake, TX.

It has two stories, was built in 2005, 7900 sq ft, lot size is 1.7 acres. There are 7 bedrooms, 7 ½ baths. These photos are not of his furniture and may have been staged by a real estate agent. The home includes a formal dining room, fitness center, covered outdoor dining area, seating in the backyard, large pool and a detached guest house.

The gourmet kitchen has wood plank floors, steel blue flat fronted cabinetry and snack bar, table and chairs .

Master Bedroom is sizeable.

Beck said, “We are moving to Dallas and we’re going to build a film and television center and radio center in Dallas and we’re going to create some jobs with people who know how to create jobs in Texas.”

LANDMARKED PALM BEACH WYETH HOME SELLS FOR $11.7MM

2011-06-12T06:58:00.000-04:00

Built in 1925, “Bel Riposo” at 181 Clarendon Avenue in the Vita Serena subdivision of Palm Beach was designed by architect Marion Sims Wyeth in Venetian Gothic style. In 2006, the Palm Beach Town Council granted the property a 10-year ad valorem tax exemption for historic properties after extensive architectural and engineering improvements were approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission and completed according to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.

This Mediterranean-style 7000’ living sq ft waterfront house has 5 bedrooms, an elevator, guesthouse, 125’ dock on 225+ ft of Intracoastal Waterway frontage. Assessed at $4MM for 2010, the property recently sold for $11.7MM.

Wyeth (1889-1982) was architect for 100+ residences in Palm Beach, one of its foremost architects. Graduating in 1910 from Princeton University he then studied at and graduated from Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris. He opened his Palm Beach office in 1919. Wyeth completed the original Good Samaritan Hospital in West Palm Beach and then built homes for high society. He was the original architect for Mar-A-Lago. He designed the Bethesda-by-the-Sea rectory, the Governor’s Mansion in Tallahassee and the Norton Gallery of Art. One of his homes can be seen on just about every street in Palm Beach. In 1981 Wyeth received an award for architecture” that stood the test of time” from the Palm Beach Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

1925 UPDATED, UPGRADED NORTHWOOD HOME NOW $99,000-SHORT SALE

2011-06-11T07:36:00.002-04:00

Lovingly maintained, the 2-story home, new on the market, has 3 bedrooms and a den, 1 ½ baths. It is located in West Palm Beach's historic district. No closets in 3^rd bedroom and den. Roof and appliances are newer in this pretty home with Spanish-style architecture.

32’x16’ living room, entered into from foyer, has fireplace and crown moldings. Pointed archway cutout leads to 20’x20’ dining room. Wood floors are beautiful.

19’x17’ Kitchen has wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, center island. 18’x14’ master bedroom. Master bath has tub and shower combo. 2nd and 3^rd bedrooms are 14’x12’. Total of 1727 living sq ft. Washer and dryer included. Back porch overlooks yard, is screened in. Pets OK. No HOA fees.

DELRAY BEACH 1931 HISTORIC HOUSE SOLD AFTER NEARLY A YEAR ON THE MARKET

2011-06-05T20:16:00.002-04:00

With a possible two buildable lots, needing city approval to split, the property at 1604 North Swinton measures .6127 acres. There is a 1608 living sq ft house with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and a two car garage on the property that fronts on west side of Swinton where other homes of that era have been rebuilt, torn down and restored. This charming wood cottage needs work. The subdivision is High Acres Delray.

The property sold for $418,000, originally priced at $1MM in 2007, then off the market and back in 2009 for $750,000. Realist shows sale price as $209,000 but MLS shows it as $418,000. The property shows closed in May 2011, but the transfer is not yet recorded on the property records.

There is a “1 bath efficiency” guest house on the property. Lf Style Homes is the buyer.

YOUR EDITOR FEELS YOU WOULD WANT TO READ THIS ARTICLE... IT WILL BE A PART OF HISTORY...

2011-05-04T18:19:00.002-04:00

By Asher Price AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Updated: 5:38 a.m. Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Published: 9:57 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, 2011

A   demolition whiz, an expert parachutist and diver, a pilot of    mini-submarines and, at one point, an aspiring journalist if Rambo were a    Renaissance man, and a lot thinner and taller, he might look like  Bill   McRaven.

Long   before he devised the strategy for how to capture or  kill Osama bin   Laden, McRaven began preparing for a career as a  super-commando while   he was an undergraduate at the University of Texas.

McRaven,    55  and now a vice admiral, had been something of a bin Laden hunter    for at least a half-dozen years before successfully directing the  attack   Sunday as the leader of the Joint Special Operations Command.

McRaven,    who hails from San Antonio, began preparing for his storied career   with  the Navy SEALs, the elite special operations forces, while still a    member of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps at UT, from which he    graduated in 1977 as a journalism major.

"He   had drive," said  James Gruetzner, who was in the same Navy ROTC   battalion as McRaven. "He  went on extraordinarily long runs to stay in   shape. He was very  dedicated."

McRaven   grew up in a military family — his father, a  former football player,   had served as a pilot in World War II — and  early outings as a   10-year-old to scuba dive at the YMCA put him on the  Navy path, said   his sister  Nan McRaven, an Austin public affairs  consultant who serves   on the board of Austin Community College.

"He    became  very focused on SEAL training," said Curtis Raetz, who also   was  in the ROTC battalion. "He was able to lap us all no matter how   hard we  tried."

Students aiming to become SEALs were "fanatical" about physical training, said Greg Colchin, another member of the battalion.

"People    think of it as a physical thing, but it's also a mental thing," said    Nan McRaven, who said her brother has loved to read ever since their    mother compelled him to recite poetry as a boy. "He's focused, and he    has the humility for real leadership."

Eventually   he would become a  qualified diver, parachutist, demolition expert and   submersible pilot.  He also had smarts. He earned a master's degree in   national security  affairs,  and in 1995, he wrote "Spec Ops: Case   Studies in Special  Operations Warfare Theory and Practice," in which he   developed his own  definition of a special operation as one "conducted   by forces specially  trained, equipped, and supported for a specific   target whose  destruction, elimination, or rescue (in the case of   hostages), is a  political or military imperative."

Nominating   McRaven for a fourth  star this year, Defense Secretary Robert Gates   said the Joint Special  Operations Command "ruthlessly and effectively   (took) the fight to  American's most dangerous and vicious enemies."

At   its head was  McRaven, who "is reputed to be the smartest SEAL that   ever lived. He is  physically tough, compassionate and can drive a knife   through your ribs  in a nanosecond," a former commander told Newsweek   in 2004.

He    also has shown a capacity for contrition. In April 2010, a couple of    months after a special forces  team mistakenly killed an Afghan police    chief, a prosecutor and three unarmed women, McRaven pleaded for    forgiveness from a local patriarch, bringing with him an offering of two    sheep as part of a custom to make amends.

That followed McRaven's decision to tamp down commando raids in Afghanistan to avoid civilian deaths.

Whatever    successes he achieved remained outstripped by the specter of bin   Laden,  whose elimination, to use McRaven's own word, remained an   "imperative."

As    long ago as 2004, having already commanded the team that helped   capture  Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein — soldiers based at Fort Hood   also were  involved — he turned his attention to capturing Public Enemy   No. 1.

But he was stymied until this spring, when intelligence officers determined that bin Laden was in hiding in Pakistan.

McRaven    spent weeks working with the CIA on the commando operation, The New    York Times has reported, coming up with three options: a helicopter    assault using American commandos, a strike with B-2 bombers that would    obliterate the compound or a joint raid with Pakistani intelligence    operatives who would be told about the mission hours before the launch.

The decision, to swoop in with a crew of American commandos, was in keeping with McRaven's view of special operations.

In    2001 congressional testimony on military training, McRaven described    the two primary missions of Navy SEALs: "Reconnaissance and what we  call   direct action: raids, ambushes, swimmer sneak attacks and optical    clearance for amphibious landings," he said. "Most of these missions    originate from the water and require us to work in small units, behind    enemy lines at night, with little or no outside support."

http://www.statesman.com/news/local/seal-who-directed-bin-laden-effort-started-journey-1452367.html

1926 UPDATED NORTHWOOD HOME NOW A SHORT SALE

2011-04-26T05:53:00.006-04:00

Two blocks from the Intracoastal Waterway sits a charming, updated 1926 home that still maintains the original vintage charm and feel. The original carriage doors remain. Located in West Palm Beach's historic district of Northwood, the two-story main house and apartment maintain the original dade-pine hardwood flooring, a fireplace in the living room, French Door that leads out to the wood sun deck and side gardens. There are more French Doors within the house and crown moldings throughout. French Doors lead from the upstairs master bedroom out to the roof balcony for pleasant sunning.

The kitchen has wood cabinetry with moldings and glass cabinet doors, plate rack and spice drawers. The original decorative tile remains in all of the bathrooms. The apartment has a balcony, 1 bedroom and 1 bath and is atop an oversized 2-car garage and can be rented out for about $800/month. Roof is newer; all impact windows.

First listed in 2006 for $685,000, the property is now a short sale with a $250,000 bank approved price.

Call Marilyn at 561-302-3388 to see this unique, one-of-a-kind property.

IN CASE YOU ARE WONDERING… HERE IT IS ... TIGER’S NEW HOME IN JUPITER

2011-04-03T11:43:00.001-04:00

Tiger Woods’ new home in Jupiter has a 4-hole golf course and running track and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. Price ticket? $60MM.

Prior to his split with now ex-wife Ellen Nordegren, they spent many months planning every detail together. The 10,000 sq ft house is on Jupiter Island. Meant to be a family home, now it is a state-of-the-art bachelor pad. The huge master bedroom has “his-and-hers” bathrooms and there are three more bedroom suites. There is a glass-fronted elevator. Other features are a basement wine cellar, and perhaps a move theatre and game room for the Woods’ children, Sam and Charlie.

Many tall trees and high boundary walls surround the plot, giving the privacy desired, but aerial photos, which appeared on Tiger’s blog, show the compound nicely.

Four more buildings are adjoined to the main house, including a boathouse, golf training studio, stand-alone garage and huge guesthouse. There is a tennis court, gym, diving pool, lap lane, 100’ running track and a 3.5 acre 4-hole golf course. The short-game area has four greens, six sand traps with different depths and kinds of sand, a video center and putting studio.

A pair of boat docks on the Intracoastal side of the property will hold Woods’ 155 ft yacht, named Privacy.

$100MM HOME FOR SALE IN NEVADA

2011-03-31T23:35:00.001-04:00

Stateline, Nevada is the setting for this beautiful "no-expense spared" Western estate, a 38,000 sq ft home on 210 acres. There are 9 bedrooms, 11 1/2 baths, an elevator, game room, solarium and hardwood floors. Stateline is located on the east shore of Lake Tahoe. For more information, contact Marilyn Jacobs at 561-302-3388.

EL CID HISTORIC HOME TOUR from 2-5 pm ON APRIL 3rd

2011-03-30T03:18:00.001-04:00

Here’s your chance to see thirteen homes in the grand West Palm Beach historic neighborhood of El Cid, an area of 285 homes of which 185 are listed as historic.

The 1925 house and gardens at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, 253 Barcelona Road, West Palm Beach, listed on the National register of Historic places, is included and after the tour, come and enjoy the wine, hors d’oeuvres and live music there. This is also where the tour begins.

Homes will be examples of Mediterranean Revival and Mission Revival, built in the 1920’s, many of them renovated, some taken down to the studs and with redone foundations. Others are mostly “original”. West Palm Beach has 14 historic districts.

Parking is available at Unity of the Palm Beaches, 1957 S.Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. Trolley is available.

Advance admission is $55; $65 the day of the tour. For information call 954-270-6081.

SPEND A WONDERFUL DAY AMIDST ART, GARDENS, BOUTIQUES in WINTER PARK, FLORIDA

2011-03-19T09:13:00.000-04:00

Founded by wealthy Northern industrialists in 1882 as a winter getaway, Winter Park, near Orlando, lies among a cluster of lakes and a large park in the central square. Brick-paved streets wind past stately turn-of-the-last-century homes. Oaks are festooned with Spanish moss that sways in the breeze. So much to enjoy here!

Start with the new wing of the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art displaying many artifacts by Louis Comfort Tiffany. See lovely jewelry, pottery, paintings, art glass, leaded-glass windows and lamps. The 1893 chapel interior that Tiffany designed for the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

Many late 19^th and early 20^th C. paintings, pottery, graphics and decorative art are highlighted.

Rollins College at the southern end of the tree-lined downtown area, houses the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, with “Madonna and Child Enthroned” by Cosimo Rosselli (1475-80). many American landscapes and portraits and an extensive Bloomsbury collection as well as old maters’ Renaissance work and contemporary photography.

The Alben Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens, on the shores of Lake Osceola, is protected by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, one of only 30 such homes and studios. He created monumental commissions in the US and Europe, and then retired in 1950 and set up this home, studio and sculpture garden within the 3-acre property. Over 200 of his artifacts are displayed in the gardens, residence and in a small chapel. He worked in fiberglass, terra cotta, aluminum, bronze, granite and wood.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Art Galleries and decorative arts shops, which can be found downtown on Park Avenue.

Take the scenic boat tour, past lakes and canals, with chatty descriptions given of historic estates, museums, and nearby flora and fauna. Dine downtown at the restaurants with many cuisine choices. Spend a simply wonderful, uplifting day in this charming "old world" area!

CALIFORNIA CRAFTSMAN HOME WITH GHERY POP-OUT SPACE

2011-03-03T04:31:00.001-05:00

Built in 1959

Extensively renovated in 2004

Rick Cortez was the designer,
Frank Ghery added a pop-out to
serve as master bedroom, to take in

the night stars.

The dark wood floors and built-in shelves
are Spanish cedar, sourced from
"reclaimed barn floors

from the East Coast,"
according to the

original listing.

Craftsman style homes combine
simple design

with natural materials such as wood

to emphasize the individual craftsman

over the industrial revolution aesthetic.

There are 5 bedrooms, 3 and a half baths
and the Chef's kitchen
has the largest BOOS

butcher block ever manufactured.

This rustic canyon home is in Santa Monica.

2 BEDROOM COTTAGE RENTAL IN HISTORIC WEST PALM BEACH

2011-03-03T04:09:00.001-05:00

Built in 1925, this is a Key West Cottage, Mango House. The house was carefully restored in 2010, a historical monument. Now this charming home can be used as a unique vacation spot.

Five persons can be accommodated. Enjoy the private heated counter-current pool and two terraces. Two full baths. Living room has a flat screen TV with Blu-Ray player and complimentary wireless Internet access. Cell phone provided if you wish with free domestic service.

Washer and dryer on site. Use the two bicycles and beach equipment. Contact HomeAway.com for more information. $1300-$2800/weekly.
.

TWO VERY UNUSUAL BUILDINGS IN BARCELONA

2011-02-26T16:45:00.002-05:00

LA PREDRERA

THE MIND HOUSE

Some years ago I went to Barcelona, with one intent being to see the buildings of architect Antoni Gaudi. He became famous for his unique and highly individualistic designs regarded as beyond the scope of Modernism.

Gaudí, throughout his life, studied nature's angles and curves and incorporated them into his designs and mosaics. Instead of relying on geometric shapes, he mimicked the way men stand upright. La Predrera has not one corner that is not curved, and on the roof are giant chess-like figures, astonishing to see.

Perhaps you have seen Sagrada Familie, a construction of Gothic towers with endless figures embedded in the exteriors of the whole building.

These were built in the late 1800's.

If any of the readership know who built The Mind House, please let us know.

THE MOST EXPENSIVE HOUSE IN THE UNITED STATES

2011-02-23T22:43:00.000-05:00

AARON SPELLING'S

THE MANOR

The former residence of late television producer Aaron Spelling, the biggest home in Los Angeles County, has over 56,000 square feet and 123 rooms. It also has an asking price of $150 million, making it the most expensive house in the United States

HOLLYWOOD FLORIDA HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY HOME TOUR

2011-02-18T05:26:00.001-05:00

On February 27, 2011 from 1 to 4 pm, participants will tour homes in the area, including historic homes and mansions. The tour begins at the historic Hollywood Women’s Club clubhouse at 501 N. 14^th Avenue.

One of the historic homes to see was built in 1925 in the North Lake section, the oldest home on the tour. See the original fireplace, pickled cypress beams, hardwood floors, ceramic tiles and hand carved front door along with photos of the house from previous owners.

A modern expansive $2MM 4000 sq ft waterfront estate is included in the 6-home tour.

A Key West style home, an artist’s retreat with French art deco furniture and peaceful Moroccan-influenced accessories and a backyard lush with native plants, a pond and organic garden. Antique cars will also be on display.

Tea and cookies will be served by members of the historical society in a 1927 Classic Revivial building. Members will be dressed in 1920’s high tea attire. Established in 1922, the founding members created the club before they had homes, while they were living in tents on the beach. Husbands were busy building the community and the wives raised money to establish the city’s first telephone lines and ensure that all children received healthcare. They also established the city’s first library.

Air-conditioned transportation is available but one can also walk through the 8 block tour and refreshments will be available at several homes. Admission is $20. Parking is free at the Women’s Club. All proceeds go to the Hollywood Historical Society, a 501(c) 3 non-profit cultural organization. For more information call 954-920-1748.

DELRAY BEACH IS THRIVING

2011-02-16T03:14:00.002-05:00

Soon to become Delray Beach’s first bed and breakfast complex, Hartman House sat on a corner, surrounded by almost century-old fruit trees, half-renovated, neglected and empty. The theme will be, “step back in time to an easier way of life.

With three separate areas, the main house has over 3200 sq ft with 5 bedrooms ensuite (each with its own bathroom) and a 2-story townhouse over 2400 sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and another 3-story townhouse/guesthouse with 2600+ sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, the property at 307 NE 7th Avenue was the home of Gustav Hartman, a former assistant postmaster of Delray Beach in the early 1900's.

There are 5 garage spaces, pool, spa, and game room with wet bar.

Purchased for $400,000 in February 2010, the owners are intent on restoring it’s natural 1920’s beauty by re-creating the original crown molding, restoring the Dade County pine floors and building a 75-foot pool surrounded by an oasis of 80-year-old mango, starfruit and avocado trees and native palms. They are creating an ambiance “of a slower, gentler time.” Key lime scone scents will awaken you for your homemade breakfast.

Located 4 blocks north of trendy downtown Atlantic avenue with shops, restaurants and local events, it is a short walk to the intracoastal waterway and the beach. Near I-95 and two major airports.

In a different mode, Kotler Group of West Palm Beach paid $3.7MM for vacant land just north of the Old School Square Cultural Arts Center, with plans to build a 4-story 134-room hotel. The hotel will also be adjacent to the livelty Pineapple Grove arts and entertainment center, and prices are planned to range from $100-$200 per night.

The tonier British Colonial style Seagate Hotel on Atlantic Avenue is close to the beach, the Marriot and Residence in are old standbys, familiar to many vacationers, and just north on A1A a luxury complex is going up, 4001 North Ocean, on the ocean, with 34 units, ranging from $1.4MM to $3MM. Almost half the units are sold or “in the works”.

A recent New York Times travel article dubbed Delray Beach as being on the verge of becoming “a national destination".

HISTORIC NORTON HOUSE AND SCULPTURE GARDENS

2011-01-16T03:34:00.001-05:00

At 253 Barcelona Road in the El Cid historic area of West Palm Beach, there is a historic home built in 1925 that is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The house was owned by Ralph Hubbard Norton, founder of the Norton Museum of Art. A Monterey style house, Marion Sims Wyeth was the architect. Wyeth altered the house extensively to fit Norton’s art collector and it is now used as an art museum.

Group tours, special events, a Little Explorers Summer Program and the opportunity to use the facility for an event are available. There is a K-10 curriculum and educators’ resource focusing on visual arts, science and language. There is a writing workshop, and featured are discoveries in carving, plaster model making, scale enlarging, lost was casting, eco-systems, ecology, plant identification and biodiversity.

The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, part of the 1.7-acre property, has over 100 sculptures by Ann Weaver Norton which are displayed in the house, studio and gardens. Ther are 300+ species of tropical palms. Ann studied at Smith College, the National Academy of Design, Arts Students League and Cooper Union. The artist’s studio has works in wood, stone and bronze done over 4 decades. Some works are abstract, yet warm and she is said to have been remarkably avant-garde eveb vy today’s standards. Some works are over 12’ tall. Works in the garden were created right there. The setting is peaceful and beautifully maintained.

NYC DUKE-SIEMANS ART NOUVEAU MANSION SOLD FOR $44MM IN 2010

2011-01-11T06:29:00.002-05:00

Carlos Slim, the Mexican telecom mogul, known as the world's richest man, now owns the last private Fifth Avenue mansion, the Duke-Siemans mansion at the corner of 82^nd Street and 5^th Avenue.

Features include an unusual mansard roof and petal-glass awing over the entryway, similar to Paris’ Art Nouveau Metro station entrances. Five stories with 20,000 sq ft, there is a penthouse duplex, 12 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms and 11 wood-burning fireplaces.

Built in 1901 for philanthropist and tobacco tycoon Benjamin N. Duke, during the Gilded Age, the “Millionaires’ Row” also had in residence Vanderbilts, Fricks and Carnegies.

Luxury buyers have returned to Manhattan, and some seek homes with historic value.

TIME FOR A WALKING TOUR OF HISTORIC PLACES IN PALM BEACH?

2011-01-05T08:01:00.006-05:00

Worth Avenue is considered one of the best world wide upscale exclusive shopping streets, with many top name luxury retail stores, jewelers, art galleries and restaurants. Walking down Worth Avenue, in and out of the pretty and picturesque flowered alleyways, browsing or buying, can occupy a happy afternoon.

Five major architects are responsible for charming, elegant old-world Mediterranean-style buildings in the Worth Avenue area – Addison Mizner, John Volk, Howard Major, Maurice Fatio and Marion Sims Wyethe. The Everglades Club was built in 1918 and is still beautiful. These architects are also responsible for many commercial and residential buildings. The Palm Beach Preservation Foundation’s mission is to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of the Town of Palm Beach and the scenic quality. Awards are given to properties for their preservation efforts and results.

Built in 1925, architects for the Brazilian Court Hotel were, Rosario Candela (1925) and, Maurice Fatio (1936). The property began as a Mediterranean Revival style residence, and later added a south wing and was landmarked in 1994. Fatio built many beautiful homes in the area, as did the other architects mentioned above. These stately elegant properties still stand, well loved and lived in, a testament to the abilities and quality of materials used by these architects in the early 1920’s. In 2010 this hotel was designated #1 in Florida by Travel & Leisure Magazine.

Now a 5-star hotel, you might want to stop for an exciting lunch or dinner at Café Boulud. The courtyard in back is charming and romantic. A reservation for a room or suite will result in an elegant, memorable vacation. The courtyard in back is charming and romantic. A reservation for a room or suite will result in an elegant, memorable vacation. You can walk to Worth Avenue or head to the beach with jeep transportation provided.

At 450 Worth Avenue, Casa de Leoni, built in 1920 by Addison Mizner, favors a Venetian design. This property received the Preservation Foundation Ballinger Award for Restoration in 1995. At 456 Worth Avenue, sits Villa des Cygnes, built by Addison Mizner in 1922. In 417 Major Alley there is a small row of Bermuda style homes built by Howard Major in 1925.

In 1994, Pan’s Garden at 386 Hibiscus Avenue became a Preservation Foundation project, and won many awards. See many Florida native plants at this delightful, serene Botanic Garden. At 319 Brazilian Avenue, a typical Palm Beach bungalow was built in 1910 and given the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach Ballinger Award for Restoration in 1995. Tours are available for school children.

The oldest house in Palm Beach is Sea Gull Cottage, built in 1886, in 1993 Henry Flagler’s first winter home. In 1913 it was moved to the oceanfront as part of the Breakers Hotel. The property has won many awards.

For exclusive walking tours for groups, call 561-659-6909 and be treated to the history of the area by James Ponce, who is called Palm Beach’s only “Two Legged Historical Landmark” by the Palm Beach Town Council. Hear the facts and fables of Palm Beach’s illustrious history and celebrity residents. Tours are scheduled to start at 11 a.m. in the Gucci Courtyard at 256 Worth Avenue on January 12, January 26, February 9, February 23 and other dates thereafter. Call to reserve.

UNIQUE HISTORIC LUFF HOUSE IN BOCA TO BE DEMOLISHED?

2011-01-04T05:12:00.000-05:00

LUFF HOUSE IN THE 1920'S

LUFF HOUSE TODAY

Foreclosed on last January 2010, the Luff House at 390 East Palmetto Park Road is one of the city’s earliest bungalow-style homes, one of Boca Raton’s 10 oldest surviving structures. Not wanting to maintain the house, the current owners want it off the property by the end of the year or demolished.

The house was built in the early 1920’s using coral rock, unique to South Florida. The exterior appearance has changed over the years as you can see in the two pictures above. With no historic designation for the house, the owners can demolish the house if they wish, but the Boca Raton Historical Society feels it is important enough to be relocated and used.

Suggestions for a new location include Sugar Sand or Spanish River Park, if the historical society or someone else could have it moved. Cost is estimated for the move at $175,000. Eligible for state and federal grants, such as from the Florida Bureau of Historic Preservation, those funds have dwindled as the economy has.

Perhaps a group within the area will agree that this property is steeped in historical value and worth saving and reusing, and find funding to get this gem moved and used as an educational facility or for their own personal use. It has been occupied by several businesses – antiques, watches, jewelers, and was the home of community agencies such as the Junior Service League and first home of the Boca Raton Historical Society.

Anyone interested in helping can contact the Boca Raton Historical Society at (561) 395-6766, extension 106.

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED…

2010-12-29T18:49:00.002-05:00

What it would cost for a condo on the corner of Worth Avenue and South Ocean Blvd in Palm Beach, with fabulous ocean views?

A 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath 3^rd floor corner unit of 4130 living sq ft just sold for $5,000,000. There are 5 floors with 20 units in the oceanfront doorman building. Built in 1974, the unit went on the market last March for $7,500,000 and was off the market for three months during this period. HOA is $12,243/quarter.

Amenities include a pool and fitness area. Pets are allowed. This condo is Kirkland House.

THE LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE

2010-12-26T03:18:00.001-05:00

Pioneer Day at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Palm Beach is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, January 15, 2011 from 1-3 pm. Check with the Preservation Foundation at 561-832-0731. It is now home to a program of Palm Beach’s living history taking children back in time for a mini-day in a one-room school of the 1890’s, home to The Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach.

The Little Red Schoolhouse is in Phipps Ocean Park in Palm Beach, 2185 South Ocean Drive in Palm Beach. Refurbished in 1960 by the Gardeners Society of Palm Beach and the Town of Palm Beach, it remained unused until 1990 when it became part of the pioneer education program. Education in America’s one-room schoolhouses stressed discipline, moral values and “the 3 R’s.” Visiting students today participate in a spelling bee, trace Spencerian script and recite from Tom Sawyer, Little Women, The Ancient Mariner and McGuffey’s Readers. Period artifacts are also part of the pioneer educational experience.

Starting with seven students in 1886, there were 35 students by the 1880’s. The schoolhouse was located about a mile north of the Royal Poinciana Bridge on Lake Trail in Palm Beach. Children arrived by boat, bicycle or on foot from Lake Worth families and were all taught together in one room. The school ceased operation in 1901 and became a tool shed on the John S. Phipps property, falling into decline and deterioration in future years.

Preserving past educational history and its artifacts is so important to the school children of today. There are interesting positive lessons to learn from the past.

CRAFTSMAN-STYLE HOME LOVINGLY RECREATED

2010-12-04T06:13:00.002-05:00

Orlando's Lake Lawsona Historic District, which includes about 500 buildings, has homes dating from 1905-1930, the Craftsman Period. This is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Orlando. Home styles are Mediterranean, Bungalow style, Minimal Traditional and Colonial, Mediterranean, Mission, Neoclassical and Tudor revivals. However, one 3800 sq ft home is brand new.

Planning to remodel the old house that sat on the lot, 6 blocks east of downtown's Lake Eola, a couple who loved the Craftsman style found that it could not be saved, so drew up plans to replace it. The lot is narrow, but deep. A 2-car garage is behind the house. Note that the foyer has the stained glass panel over the front door, a papered ceiling and 1930's style fixture.

Working with two architects from nearby Winter Park, the home includes two large guest suites, master suite, wood-paneled study and spacious, open upstairs. The front porch is deep and has angled pillars, a gently sloping roof with wide eaves and exposed beams, and a porte-cochere over the driveway.

Inside, artistic stone, tile and stained-glass elements are included. All fixtures are 1930's style designs. There are white oak floors.

The large kitchen opens to a coffered ceiling dining room and family room with tiled fireplace. The back porch, shaded by trees, has a summer kitchen.

Details were approved by the Orlando Historical Review Board so that this house was in keeping with the neighborhood and style. The panel above which is on the back porch was from the original house.

HISTORIC HOMES TOUR IN FLAMINGO PARK, WEST PALM BEACH, DEC 5TH, 4 - 8PM AND CONCERT AFTERWARDS

2010-11-26T18:20:00.006-05:00

Flamingo Park, a neighborhood of historic homes, many in the Spanish Mission and Mediterranean Revival style, built during the 1920s boom era, will present their 19^th annual popular tour of historic homes on December 5^th from 4-8 pm. Several houses are characterized as mixture of classical Spanish, modern and Mediterranean-style units. Many Flamingo Park homes provide residents with wooden floors, fireplaces, walk-in closets, French doors, open balconies, attics, cottages, garden views, Florida rooms, covered patios and large swimming pools.

An annual lighting contest is held for the neighborhood in the evening. There will be a dessert reception and candlelight concert at 8:15 pm by the Forest Hill High School Dimension 20 Chorus.

The 1924 Alfred J. Comeau home at 701 Flamingo Drive will be included. Comeau was the Developer of the first West Palm Beach skyscraper. Three homes on the tour are an Ardmore Road home featured on Rob Thompson’s PBS show, This Old House, Rachele Scholes' home on Sunset Road and Jamie Young and Jeff Fessler's home on Kanuga Drive which both were both featured on the HGTV show My House Is Worth What?

No children allowed. For tickets ($25 if purchase prior to 12/5 and $30 at the door) see flamingopark.net or historichometours.com.

CORAL GABLES HISTORIC HOMES MORE AFFORDABLE AND SELL FASTER AND CLOSER TO LIST PRICE

2010-11-22T02:13:00.003-05:00

Known as an area where there are historic homes built prior to 1940, the average historic home sold in the past 12 months went for $244/sq ft after 128 days on the market at 92% of list price, whereas others sold for an average of $275/sq ft after 147 days on the market at 90% of list price, saving buyers about $3100 per 100 sq ft of home. The MLS in this area calculates by adjusted sq ft, with a smaller factor for covered terraces, patios and garages.

Of the 400 single family homes sold, 20% (80) were historic homes. They are mostly found West of US 1, between Bird Road & 8^th Street, Red Road and LeJeune Avenue.

UNUSUAL PALM BEACH HISTORIC HOME SELLS FOR $6.8MM

2010-11-13T08:29:00.002-05:00

Cielito Lindo at 122 Kings Road was one of a few Kings Road residences subdivided from a massive 1927 45,000 sq ft 124-room mansion by Marion Sims Wyeth with Moorish style entranceway, brickwork, wooden window grills and tower, built originally for Woolworth heiress Jessie Woolworth Donahue and her husband James. The property is located north of Mar-a-Lago Club.

The subdivided home that was recently sold is 12,380 sq ft, almost totally furnished, has 20 rooms including 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms and two powder rooms. Formal gardens by Mario Nievera are lush and extensive. An expansive wall with fountain from the original Donohue estate is carved with the words Cielito Lindo.

Beautiful lake and ocean views abound from the master bedroom, guest room and tower. Rooms are large with high ceilings. Cielito Lindo was one of the largest Palm Beach Jazz Age palazzos, built in 1924. The exterior of the home features red tile bands, a red barrel tile roof and geometric shaped interlaced wood details. The Library’s pickled paneling and pecky cypress walls and ceilings in the bar room, and 18^th C. Italian marble fireplace mantelpiece are part of the 1764 William Hogarth (English artist) estate. There are panoramic views from the Tower Room. Dining Room features Venetian plaster and baths are of onyx with Sherle Wagner gold fixtures.

SALES OF IMPORTANT HISTORIC WORKS OF ART ARE AHEAD 13% IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2010

2010-11-08T06:28:00.001-05:00

Bullish bids for important works of Impressionist and Modern art came in this past week from Russia, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Quatar, Abu Dhabi and Singapore as well as other corners of the world. The money comes from fortunes made in oil, gas, gold and other commodities. Sotheby’s sold $227MM worth of impressionist and modern art last week. Between $800MM and $1BB of art has sold or is planned for sale last week and this week by Sotheby’s and Christie’s, both prominent auction houses.

The last major auction was in May 2008 before the financial crisis stemmed the tide, when the art market was down 30% according to Mei Moses All Art index which tracks publicly sold art. 2009 was described as “rocky” in the art market. In the first half of 2010 returns were up 13%.

Recent “big time” art sales that set records included:

MATISSE: Monumental bigger-than-lifesize bronze sculpture of a woman’s back set a new record at Christies for this artist by selling for almost $49MM ($48,802,500). Sale estimates were between $25-$30MM and a global bidding wear sent the price up. The piece, “Nu de dos, 4 etate (Back IV)” measures 74.5”. This work was conceived by Matisse around 1930, but cast in 1978, 24 years after his death. The piece is No.oo in a collection of 12, the first three versions conceived in 1909, 1913 and 1916-17 are at the Museum of Modern Art. Matisse’s "Danseuse dans le fauteuil, sol en damier," sold for $20.8MM. Photo is from Christie’s Images Ltd.

MODIGLIANI: A life-sized painting sold at Sotheby’s for $69MM, and Modigliani’s circa 1917 seductive canvas, titled “Nu assis sur un divan (La Belle Romaine),” ["Nude Sitting on a Divan (The Beautiful Roman Woman),"] catapulted beyond a pre-sale estimate of about $40MM. It sold back in 1999 at Sotheby’s for $16.7MM, which was a record at the time. His previous record was $52.6, sold earlier this year in Paris.

GRIS: “Violon et guitare” a cubist oil painting on canvas done in September 1913, sold for $28.64MM after estimates for $18-25MM. It was sold by Marilyn Arison, wife of late billionaire Ted Arison and sold to benefit the nonprofit YoungArts. In 1998 they paid $9.9MM for this work of art. Gris regarded this Cubist still life as his ultimate masterpiece, according to Christie’s.

MONET’s: “Le Bassin aux Nympheas,” part of his iconic water lilies series, sold for $25.7MM. Its format is awkwardly elongated. Most of his coveted water lily paintings are in museums and some consider them, painted during the last 20 years of his life, his ultimate achievement.

ROTHCO: abstract painting, off the market for 40 years, could sell this week at Sotheby’s, estimate is between $20-$30MM. PICASSO: “Man with a Flag” sold for $5.3MM. LEGER: His “Femme sur fond rouge, femme assise”, the stylized figure of a woman seated cross-legged, in black and white on a red background sold for $6.35MM. SEURAT: A black Conte crayon study of a woman standing is seen from the back with a feeling of time suspended and profound mystery as the shadowy figure seems about to enter an invisible world brought $4.3MM. GIACOMETTI: “His “Femme de Venise V,” a craggy, jagged elongated fiture case in 1958 in an edition of 6 brought in $10MM.

This week, Christies hopes to get $240MM from sales of works by Warhol, Lichtenstein, Koons, Richter and Rothco.

Both Christie’s and Sotheby’s had predicted a surge in demand ahead of this year’s autumn auctions, with the art market emerging from a slump triggered by the global financial crisis.

The jewelry market has surged ahead as well. The Bulgari Blue Diamond, designed in the 1970’s as a gift from a European collector to his wife on the birth of their first son, was bought for about $1MM at in 1972. It features two triangular-shaped diamonds, one colorless at 9.87 carats, the other a “fancy vivid” blue diamond is 10.95 carats. The blue diamond is one in about 10 in existence with a color pure enough to qualify as “fancy vivid.” This is the largest blue diamond to have sold at auction. Photo credit: Reuters/CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LTD. 2010/Handout/.

1937 OCEAN BREEZE DELRAY BEACH COTTAGE RECENTLY SOLD FOR $927.00

2010-11-05T03:37:00.002-04:00

One block from the beach and ocean, a charming beach cottage with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, guest cottage and pool, 2273 living sq ft, also is near Atlantic Avenue. On the market 871 days, originally listed for $1,395,000.

Note French Doors and beamed wood ceiling.

Fireplace in living room.

Porch with columns and requisite rocker.

Pool with Chicago brick pavers.

Pavilion in front of guest house.

1925 OLD FLORESTA MIZNER COTTAGE RECENTLY SOLD

2010-11-05T03:16:00.003-04:00

Historic gated 1925 Mizner cottage on just about one acre in Old Floresta, Boca Raton, sold in May 2010 for $1,500,000. 3497 living sq ft. Originally listed for $2,295,000, it was on the market for 503 days with one interim price reduction.

4 bedrooms, 3 baths, several fireplaces in the house.

24’X20’ Living room is upstairs, family room downstairs.

Note wood ceilings, arches at entryways, front fountain, pavers may be Chicago brick,

FLORIDA'S LEE COUNTY OFFERS GRANTS FOR HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND HOMES FIXUPS

2010-10-20T09:16:00.001-04:00

Seeking to preserve the area’s historic housing treasures, Lee County is offering a total of $50,000 for endangered structures for projects such as structural work, roofs, sidings, foundations that are in big need of repair.

The buildings must be at least 50 years old and designated as a historic site.

The Estero Historic Society wants to preserve their first schoolhouse, built in 1904, but renovation is estimated at $80,000. Matching funds would be sought. The Schoolhouse would be used for tours. The school house and the historic Hall-Collier house were moved to the Estero Community Park using a $100,000 grant from the local College of Life Foundation.

For an application, as the funds can be split, call the Lee County Planning Division at 229-513-8118. Applications are due by December 3, 2010.

WORLD’S BIGGEST HOUSE BOUGHT BY INDIA’S RICHEST MAN… SO HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

2010-10-16T10:07:00.003-04:00

Sooner or later, somebody had to do it.

The 27-story 400,000 sq ft billion dollar skyscraper in Mumbai has India tycoon Mukesh Ambani, whose net worth is estimated at about $50BB, as its homeowner. Ambani is Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, a Fortune 500 company. This purchase is not exactly “a stretch” for him, as his net worth ranks him in the top 5 richest people in the world category. The building is the height of a 60-story residential residence, resulting in very high ceilings on each floor. It has three helipads, a parking garage and 600 staff members. He named the building, “Antilia,” after a mythical island in the Atlantic Ocean.

The first 6 floors will be for only parking with space for 168 “imported” cars. The 7^th floor will hold a service and maintenance unit, with in-house service center for their cars. An Entertainment Center that seats 50 and has a mini-theatre will be on the 8^th floor. Rooftop balconies will hold gardens, some terraced. This answers the question, “How does your garden grow?”

The 9^th floor, a “refuge” floor will be used for rescue emergencies, and two floors above will have health facilities for athletics, a swimming pool and the latest gym equipment. Two-storied glass-fronted apartments will be for Ambiani guests and another refuge floor for mechanical works will reside above these apartments. There are 9 elevators from the ground floor up.

The 4 top floors with a view of the Arabian Sea and the city’s skyine will be for 53-year old Mukesh Ambiani, his wife Neeta, their 3 children and her mother.

Reports state that the materials being used and different designs of each floor have made costs run high. There has been criticism of such flaunting of wealth in a poor country with low-income, a food-deficit and low nutritional and health indicators. However, consider that Ambani’s construction and staffing employment numbers are pouring money back into the economy and providing jobs.

An asymmetric stack of glass, steel and tiles with a four-storey hanging garden, note that Ambani's new home has been built, reports say, with local materials as far as possible. According to Forbes magazine, the plants save energy by absorbing sunlight, making it easier to keep the interior cool in summer and warm in winter. See YouTube with photos of the house.

TWO BOYNTON BEACH HISTORIC HOMES SLATED TO BECOME RESTAURANTS

2010-10-13T05:55:00.003-04:00

No doubt the sense of history surrounding these two homes in the downtown Boynton Beach area will add to the charm of these restaurants that were recently approved by the City Commissioners acting as the Community Redevelopment Agency board. These changes are made to help restore Ocean Avenue’s identity to bring shoppers to the area to stroll, eat and buy. When I95 was built in the 1970’s the Ocean Avenue area was cut off and has been struggling for an identity ever since.

The two-story Magnuson House at 211 East Ocean Avenue was built in about 1910 by a Swedish immigrant and farmer, Oscar Sten Magnuson. His wife, Eunice Benson Magnuson was one of the first town clerks. It will be leased to the restaurant owners with an exclusive option to buy the property for its appraised value of $340,000 after the first year of operation. The new Oscar’s Restaurant will be an organic café serving lunch and dinner seven days a week.

The Ruth Jones Cottage at 201 NE !st Street would be moved to the southwest corner of East Ocean Avenue and Southeast 4^th Street later this year. The restaurant owner is asking for no rent the first year. It would become the 201 Trading Post, a combined eat-in restaurant and market for prepared meals-to-go and catering service. Built in1940, it was the home of Ruth Jones until about two years ago. With her late husband Mason, a farmer and member of a Boynton pioneer-family, they raised five children there. The new location would be next to an existing public parking lot with 21 parking spaces.

Also on the drawing board are an entryway with a distinctive city logo at the marina end of Ocean Avenue and an outdoor amphitheater on the grounds of the Schoolhouse Children’s Museum in an area with mature oak trees and a natural bowl setting to be used for performances.

HELMSLEY 1918 GREENWICH ESTATE FIRST LISTED FOR $125mm SELLS FOR 35mm

2010-10-07T09:17:00.001-04:00

The sumptuous Jacobean Greenwich mansion, also known as Dunellen Hall, is 21,987 sq ft and 40 beautiful acres, on the market for 800 days with periodic price reductions. It remains one of the most expensive houses sold in the area. The mansion is hidden from the road by hedges and a stone wall, and it is topped by a wire-mesh fence. Address is 521 Round Hill Road.

Distant Long Island Sound views are one of the features. Beautiful iron gates open to classic stone walls and the driveway is lined with ornate light posts. The outside pool is 70’ long. The 1,125 sq ft living room is 45’ long and has a massive carved stone fireplace, tracery ceiling, wide-board teak floors. There is an 86’ long gallery and reception hall. The library features a 15 C. fireplace mantle. Featured are marble floors and limestone walls. There are 7 upstairs bedroom suites, 6-bedroom staff area, and brick cottages on the property hold 6 more bedrooms.

The master suite has an onyx bath and wine cellar with tasting room. The indoor pool is 52’ long and has living room areas next to it. There is a $1mm dance floor, installed by the Helmsleys who purchased the property in 1983 for $11mm.

Both Helmsleys are deceased, and scandal-ridden. The funds go to the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. Reports say that the home was purchased by a Trustee for a Greenwich Law Firm. The home was built for steel and banking tycoon Daniel Reid’s daughter in 1918 for $1mm. The property was the setting for a 1968 movie, ''A Lovely Way to Die,'' starring Kirk Douglas.

SEE BRITAIN IN A HISTORIC RENTAL HOLIDAY HOME

2010-10-05T03:16:00.001-04:00

What we Americans refer to as a vacation cottage is called a holiday home by the Brits. Charming historic home rentals, some on large estates, are found on the National Trust Holiday Cottages website that can accommodate from two people up and are available for short breaks, weekends away and holiday periods in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

South of Birmingham, northwest of London, there is an 18 C. brick built house on the Brockhampton estate, The Oast House. Spacious and an ideal retreat located deep in the heart of an “unspoilt countryside.” Featured are a wood-burning stove in the dining room and sitting room, 3 bedrooms on the first floor and two on the 2^nd floor.

South of London is Emley House, a substantial farmsted in an idyllic rural setting, that is largely unaltered since the 19^th C. and retains a unique charm and character. Rooms are spacious, there is a traditional country kitchen and several large fireplaces. 5 bedrooms, 2 baths. Large meadow to rear of cottage.

Mustard Pot cottage has a large fenced garden and an octagonal shaped sitting room with bedroom above. There is direct access from the cottage to acres of park and woodland on the Felbrigg estate. 2 bedrooms, one reached by narrow and winding stairs. Passing cars may be heard from the nearby road.

Have you dreamt of living in a castle, high up on the cliffs with regal ocean views? Step out through Gothic arches. Not for children under 12 because of proximity to sheer cliffs. Walk through the archways at Doyden Castle and peer down from the citadel to the valley below. Built in 1830, it was a pleasure house of an infamous and wealthy bon-viveur.

You can browse another 180 historic holiday homes accommodating up to 16 people at Landmark Trust.

FLORIDA ARCHITECTURE WAS AHEAD OF THE GAME

2010-10-04T10:19:00.002-04:00

Before air conditioning, many features were incorporated into now historic homes to deal with decreasing the heat within the home during summer and other hot months that today are considered “green”.

Deep covered porches and wide eaves sheltered main buildings from the harsh sun, reduced heat gain and protected interior furnishings from fading while giving a sheltered space to sit out of the sun and enjoy cooling breezes when they could be found. Window awnings helped keep interior rooms cool by protection from direct sunlight. Between 1870 and 1930, fabric awnings made of canvas were attached to a fixed of retractable metal frame, available in colors and patterns for the homeowners to choose. In the 1940’s metal awnings and Bahama shutters were common.

Operable windows were usually covered with full-height screens to keep out mosquitos. All exterior doors had screen doors, allowing breezes in and keeping bugs out. Many that were not sheltered by a porch had covered overhangs.

On upper floors, there were “sleeping porches” with either rows of casement windows or screened openings to capture as much air movement as possible, and cots were set out for hot night relief.

Will homebuilders of today consider adding awnings, Bahama shutters and porches in front and back? With the new mantra, “CHEAP IS THE NEW BLACK,” we realize that our earlier residents would have found these methods good ways to reduce today’s air conditioning bills.

HISTORIC 1903 GREENWICH 20,000 SQ FT, 4.26-ACRE ESTATE FOR SALE

2010-10-03T02:58:00.001-04:00

The mansion is located on Field Point Circle in Greenwich, CT in a gated community affording privacy, and has 6 bedrooms and 9 full and 7 half bathrooms. Sitting alongside Long Island Sound, this renovated stone residence has 340 ft of shoreline with magnificent vistas of Greenwich Point and harbor islands.

An outstanding feature of the mansion is the fabulous ballroom that turns into a natatorium, which features an elaborate mosaic floor that lowers with the touch of a button to showcase the indoor swimming pool.

The 35-foot high grand atrium gallery with marble floor serves also as entry to the first-floor rooms. Panoramic views are the joy of the semi-circular, window-walled living room. The main and garden levels feature a library/gallery.

Included on the grounds are pool, guest house and guest cottage, park-like grounds and a historic Roebling 175 ft suspension bridge. There is a boat dock and Deck/Patio. Five fireplaces and eight garage bays are on the property.

2010-09-24T03:49:00.000-04:00

LOOKING FOR A CLASSY,

REGAL RENTAL?

Head over to Port of Leith, Edinburgh and climb aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, launched in 1953. Walk the red carpet and be greeted by a Pipe Major.

This grand ship has played home to The Queen and Royal Family for a half century and entertained kings, queens, presidents and prime ministers worldwide. It is decked out with comfortable casual furniture and the walls hold aged family portraits. The Yacht is said to be Scotland’s most popular attraction.

The State Dining room holds gifts to Her Majesty from 968 official worldwide state visits. Four honeymoons took place on the yacht including Princess Diana and Prince Charles honeymoon, but if your heart is set on having your wedding there: sorry, no weddings allowed. Suitable for a corporate event, the casual setting is regal and can include a harpist or pianist, fireworks, dancing to jazz or a traditional celtic band. Up to 176 guests can be feted for dinner or up to 380 for champagne receptions.

Staff is white-gloved and served in fine china with silver engraved with Britannia’s crest. Public tours are available during the day and imagine yourself sipping afternoon tea, sitting on a Britannia deck chair, overlooking the Firth of Forth. Cover the Royal Deck with an awning, plan an awesome dinner and invite the 80 people you want to impress the most.

Cheerio!

WELL WORTH MENTIONING AS THIS MAY BECOME A HISTORIC PRODUCT OF THE FUTURE...

2010-09-23T08:02:00.001-04:00

IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS….

While Only “a dream” at the moment, just like the Flash Gordon comics of years ago that put a man on the moon… which happened during our lifetime… the design has been made for a yacht that can fly. It has been exhibited at the Paris’ Air & Space Museum.

Just click the button and your “superyacht with wings” takes you where ever you want to go.

The masts can be operated independently and sails are stored within them. The masts become wings when flying is preferred. 46 meters, with 4 mobile masts reaching 40’, the designer said he did not mean to make it feasible, but rather an innovative concept.

Any bets on how soon this will become reality?

UK BECKHAM MANSION FOR SALE

2010-09-11T01:06:00.001-04:00

Known as “Beckingham Palace,” the 7-bedroom Georgian estate was built in the 1930’s and is on 24 landscaped acres. It has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a petting zoo with miniature animals, recording studio, billiards room, snooker room, gym and state-of-the-art flood lit tennis courts. In 1999 they paid about 2.5MM £ and spent another £18MM on renovations over the years. It is now on the market for £18MM or about $28MM. The estate is located in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire.

The garden has three £10,000 gazebos with different themes (lakeside, romantic and ornamental). There is a 52 ft garden pavilion with marble floor and a 4 foot £79,000 barbecue. They plan to reside permanently now in their opulent £11MM Beverly Hills mansion. They also own a £2MM chateau in the south of France and luxury apartment in Dubai... and might buy a London townhouse. The Beckhams net worth is reported to be £125MM.

Currency Converter shows US$1 = £.6514.

2010-09-08T07:40:00.001-04:00

WHAT TO THINK ABOUT WHEN PLANNING TO RESTORE OR RENOVATE A HISTORIC HOME

EXTERIOR: It can be challenging to see that the outside appearance conforms to historical standards while accommodating the house to new modern changes. You may want to put in impact or energy efficient windows and doors. Find a contractor who can install new triple-paned glass and keep the original frames.

RESOURCES: Check out your state office of historic preservation, local preservation associations and historic groups, and renovation networks.

MAJOR CHANGES: Find a contractor and architect who have experience with preserving older homes while replacing elements within and without. Look at their examples of historic renovations. They should consider the floor plan, size and shape of the rooms, lighting, hardware and architectural elements to preserve, e.g pecky cypress ceiling, arched doorways and windows, fireplaces, flooring. Be sure they are familiar with the construction techniques and unique features of your home’s time period.

SUPPLIES: Find companies that make new materials with an “old look”, showing the patina of age. They can sometimes be found at demolition sales, flea markets, salvage years and retail stores featuring restoration items.

COST: Start with a focus on one or two projects such as replacing the molding and/or windows (as described above), and repairs to needy items.

It is indeed a challenge to see that your house retains its true historic character, and to stay within budget. You can make the changes in steps, focusing each year on a different project, if the budget does not fit the plans. Enjoy the restorations and renovations and rest easy knowing you are maintaining history by implementing these plans.

2010-09-04T09:25:00.002-04:00

ILHM PRESIDENT WACO MOORE SHOWS THAT

“LESS IS MORE”

The September 2010 issue of Better Homes and Gardens features the home of Institute for Luxury Home Marketing President, Waco Moore, built in 1957 and then named as Better Homes and Gardens “Idea House of the Year.” Waco and his wife Mila Goldman-Moore, who is an architect and served as general contractor after they purchased the house, have kept true to the modern aesthetic, but have incorporated “green features” such as shredded denim insulation and tank-less hot water heaters. Mila says her favorite element in their bedroom is the easy access to the outdoors and future plans may include a porch with a sleeping alcove in that area.

Before moving in, they stripped the interior down to the studs, maintained the basic floor plan, and removed crown moldings to keep a simplified look. They also replaced Victorian-style decorative doorknobs. Planning ahead, the inexpensive kitchen cabinets are freestanding, and if they redo the kitchen, they will merely be moved into the garage. Open storage shelves help to declutter.

Still “The Idea House of the Year,” the Moore’s are in trend with today’s modern times with a non-wasted space floor plan, connections between living areas that are “family-friendly,” natural light streaming in, and a nice indoor-outdoor flow making the house seem larger than its 2100 sq ft. Towering canopy oaks shade the house and offer breezes and sunlight where it is needed.

THINKING OUTSIDE-THE-BOX: IS THIS AN IDEA WHOSE TIME HAS COME?

2010-08-31T06:40:00.003-04:00

In 1923, a rare-book dealer named Alice Millard commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to build a home for her in textile block design on an acre of gardens in Pasadena, CA. He had previously built her a home in Highland Park, IL in 1906.

The lot had a steep ravine, and Wright designed the home to cling to it, and to be nestled among the trees. The 3-story 2400 sq ft house’s concrete blocks were made using sand, gravel and minerals found on the property. The 3 stories spiral around a central chimney. Redwood ceilings and paneling add warmth. Filtered, dappled light flows through the house through the perforated blocks and tall windows. There are 4 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, a living room and a formal dining room.

He used roughly textured, earth-toned blocks to blend the color and form of the house to the trees and hillside, different from his other designs but in keeping with his love of natural materials and belief that buildings should complement their surroundings. The blocks were created in wooden molds with modernized Pre-Columbian patterns on the outside and smooth insides and featured a symmetrical pattern of a cross with a square in each corner. They were reinforced with conventional mortar. While the budget was $10,000, the project cost $17,000.

First floor has the kitchen, servant’s room and a dining room that opened to a terrace and reflecting pool. Second floor has the main entrance, guest room and 2-story living room with fireplace and balcony. Third floor had Millard’s bedroom with balcony overlooking living room and outdoor terrace.

The house, like many of Wright’s homes, had leaks during rains but nevertheless Millard added a separate studio in 1936 which Wright’s son, Lloyd Wright, designed. It was initially greeted with criticism and laughter, but today some considered Millard House one of Wright’s best works. It has the feeling of living in a work of art.

In 1926, the house was ranked by a panel of 10 distinguished citizens and architecture experts as one of the 12 most significant landmarks in the Los Angeles area. In 1980 the New York Times mentioned that Millard House was world-famous and ranked it among the few Los Angeles buildings that have become classic works of the 20thC.

The house was reported to have been purchased in 2000 for $1.3MM with restoration estimates at least double since “glass was incorporated internally into the concreted blocks by hand” which caused imploding/exploding difficulties in all of Wright’s concrete-block houses in Los Angeles. There are four such houses built by Wright in Pasedena. Once on the market for $15MM. Price now is $7.495MM.

What is the out-of-the-box idea? Selling to a Japanese art-collector and moving the house to Japan.

FABULOUS VIRGINIA PALACE NEAR WASHINGTON, DC IS FOR SALE

2010-08-27T23:49:00.003-04:00

Luxury features and amenities abound in a beautiful castle in McLean, Virigina, the Chateau Noble, built in 2006, currently on sale for $14,500,000.

Wrought-iron entrance gates open to circular stone drive. On two stunningly landscaped acres, atop a hill, there is a 27,000 sq ft chateau with Beaux-Arts focus including arched paned windows, coffered and volume ceilings, beautiful crown moldings, stunning woodwork and built-ins, pretty fireplaces, granite, bluestone terraces and French Doors.

Upon entry there is a sweeping staircase and coffered dome with Schonbek chandelier. Stair railing is made of rich black scroll work.

A grand ballroom has gold-limestone flooring and can fit 200 guests with 6 French Doors for entry.

The library also has coffered ceilings as well as custom bookshelves and pocket doors in mahogany paneling.

Gourmet kitchen has top-of-the-line appliances, gold granite countertops and recessed lighting. Formal dining room can set 24.

The more-than-spacious master bedroom suite has a separate sitting room with fireplace. Closets are fitted with cherry wood built-ins. Five more ensuite bedrooms each have marble and tile bathrooms. Three powder rooms are on the main floor. Lower level has a workout room overlooking a private garden courtyard with 18 C Venetian fountain.

and oversized steam shower. The elevator goes to three floors. Fourth level houses staff quarters and full bath. Balconies combine brick and cast stone. Seven gas fireplaces are in the eleven-zone heating system with Carrier air conditioning handlers. The Crestron wireless control center controls heating and sound and there is a Lutron lighting system.

The pure elegance and grandeur make the home fit for visits from royalty, and yet there is an intimate feeling suitable for family and friends to enjoy the premises of this magnificent home.

2010-08-13T04:28:00.002-04:00

THE BRITISH HAVE DONE IT AGAIN WITH THE WORLD’S PRICIEST APARTMENT SALE

Sale price: about $220MM. London skylines, private wine tasting facilities and top security features including bullet-proof windows and a panic room, SAS-trained bodyguards and floor to ceiling windows with fabulous views of central London were the major attractions to the 6-bedroom 2-floor penthouse in One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge, London. Eye scanners are featured in private elevators to prevent unwanted intruders. The building is heated using geothermal bore holds sunk 450’ to extract heat from the earth’s crust. The apartment contains an air purifier to ward off poison gas attacks. The new owners, anonymous, expect to move in by the end of the year.

Eighty apartments have been sold in this new unique complex, one of the world’s most expensive residential areas. This upscale neighborhood has an average apartment cost of $30MM. 65% of all properties in the block have been sold with 30% of the buyers Europeans and 25% Middle eastern as the worlds financial elite flock to London, taking advantage of the weakness of the pound.

There is also tunnel access to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and their 24-hour room service with TV chef Heston Blumenthal opening a fabulous new restaurant and to spas and squash courts and the unit has its own car park.

“Trophy properties” sales remain strong. Some speculate that trophy buyers of today might be from Nigeria or the Middle East, with large oil profits facilitating these sales.