Each of these impressive compounds—in locations from East Coast to West—is an enviable private retreat for groups large and small to enjoy swimming, stargazing, sports, or simply relaxing together indoors and out.
RANCHO BELLA VISTA
Minutes from Santa Barbara and the “California Riviera,” this idyllic 123-acre ranch enjoys seemingly endless views of the Santa Ynez River, the area’s renowned wine country, and the Los Padres Mountains. It features a Mission-style hacienda that, with its gourmet kitchen and wine cellar, is ideal for grand living and entertaining; an enchanting 1,500-square-foot cabana with a kitchen; numerous patios, verandas, and balconies—some with fountains and fireplaces; a refreshing pool and spa; colorful gardens; a barn; and two wells.
ASONOMA SERENITY
This four-acre wine country compound basks in picturesque vistas of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. The new 6,035-square-foot home offers four bedrooms, an open-plan great room, and numerous outdoor living spaces; while the detached guesthouse provides an additional bedroom and bath along with an outdoor kitchen. Augmenting the appeal are an alluring pool and spa, an enchanting barn designed for festive entertaining, and an auxiliary residence that, with its two bedrooms and one bath, could easily serve as a guesthouse or a generous office.
HISTORIC HIDEAWAY IN THE BRONX
Stunning greenery is a hallmark of this classical 1.5-acre compound near the banks of the Hudson in the prestigious community of Riverdale. Secured at the end of a gated drive, balustraded lawns and terraces accompany an impeccably maintained and updated 1920s Georgian residence with five bedrooms, an impressive indoor pool and spa, and a six-car garage as well as a one-bedroom guesthouse with a full kitchen. Further afield are water features, a gazebo, patios and “garden rooms,” and an additional garage.
LUSH OASIS IN HOUSTON
At the heart of this compound in Houston’s Audubon Place Historic District is a “secret garden” of mature live oaks, towering palm trees, flourishing landscaping, sitting areas, and accent lighting. Embracing this pastoral space are three structures: a classically detailed 4,699-square-foot duplex residence with four bedrooms, a 1,440-square-foot home that currently serves as an exceptional office, and a separate 920-square-foot guest apartment or studio.