Architect behind Drake’s Bridle Path mansion designed this $22M Muskoka castle for sale

A unique home in West Michigan, priced at $6.5 million, features a distinctive two-story walk-in closet with a spiral staircase, which the current owner has fully utilized with clothes and shoes. The property is situated on 323 acres and boasts a 14,000 square foot residence. The extensive amenities of this luxurious home include a 9-acre private lake with access to four additional lakes, offering vast recreational opportunities. For security and privacy, there is a 5,000 square foot underground bunker, providing a substantial safe haven or storage space. The home also comes equipped with a state-of-the-art greenhouse, catering to gardening enthusiasts, and a heated driveway, ensuring convenience during colder months. The interior of the house features five bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and three half bathrooms, accommodating a large family or numerous guests. A four-car garage provides ample space for vehicles and additional storage. The residence includes a walkout basement, adding to its functional living areas. The kitchen and other key areas are outfitted with quartz countertops and high-end appliances, reflecting a commitment to quality and modern design. Convenience is further enhanced by a washer and dryer on every level, streamlining daily chores. The master bedroom suite is particularly opulent, featuring 'His & Her' showers and a dedicated laundry area. Entertainment options abound with a home theater for cinematic experiences and a Yoga Room for wellness activities. A spa completes the suite of luxury amenities, offering a dedicated space for relaxation and rejuvenation. The article emphasizes the visual appeal of the home, encouraging readers to view accompanying photos, particularly highlighting the two-story walk-in closet and its spiral staircase, showcasing the distinctive design and practical luxury of this Michigan property. #MichiganHome #LuxuryRealEstate #TwoStoryCloset #HomeDesign #UniqueHomes #BattleCreek #ZillowListing #RealEstateMichigan #DreamHome

This blog post highlights a Georgian manor located at 1295 Ballantrae Farm Dr. in McLean, Virginia, on the market for $3.85 million. The property, built 21 years ago, emphasizes classic architectural designs that are intended to withstand changing trends. It features six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, three half bathrooms, and spans 12,300 square feet. The residence offers a range of luxurious amenities designed to enhance comfort and elegance. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a grand foyer that includes a sweeping staircase and an intricately designed marble floor. The dining room is notable for its classic crown molding, a fireplace that contributes to the ambiance, and custom-lighted cabinets for display. The family room provides a cozy atmosphere, featuring extensive pine millwork that provides warm tones throughout the halls, trim, and flooring, complemented by a fireplace. A hidden wet bar is also integrated into this space for convenience. The kitchen is presented as a bright and spacious area, distinguished by detailed tile painting above the countertop and an exquisite ceiling accent. It is equipped with Quaker Maid cabinetry and high-end stainless steel appliances from brands such as Viking, SubZero, and Bosch, catering to culinary needs. The owner's suite is described as exceptionally well-appointed, offering more than just an expansive layout and a pristine bathroom. The primary bedroom includes a separate sitting room with its own fireplace, two walk-in closets, and two marble bathrooms, one of which features a sauna and a soaking tub. Additionally, the suite provides direct access to a private sunroom. The exterior of the manor features a large terra cotta tile terrace, suitable for outdoor activities such as grilling and relaxation. This outdoor area also includes a fire pit for cooler evenings and is surrounded by meticulously maintained landscaping, providing a serene environment for residents and guests. Chris Pritchard at McEnearney Associates is listed as the contact for further information regarding the property. #McLeanRealEstate #GeorgianManor #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeAmenities #VirginiaRealEstate #ClassicArchitecture #HighEndKitchen #OutdoorLiving

The Langley Crest estate at 6501 Bright Mountain Rd. in McLean, Virginia, is currently listed for $29.9 million. Built in 2023, this contemporary mansion spans 21,800 square feet across 5.3 acres of private, landscaped woods and gardens. The property features six bedrooms, nine full bathrooms, and four half baths distributed over three levels. Architectural elements include seven fireplaces, soaring ceilings, a floating staircase, and an elevator, all contributing to a sense of sophisticated luxury. Access to the estate is through a gated entrance leading to a European cobblestone driveway, which culminates in a climate-controlled parking garage capable of housing eight vehicles. The exterior design incorporates concrete stucco, copper gutters, and a Vermont slate roof, emphasizing durability and aesthetic appeal. Outdoor amenities are extensive, featuring a heated, in-ground pool, an expansive backyard suitable for hosting events, and private gardens designed for seclusion and tranquility. The property is also equipped with advanced security and AV systems, along with a 600-amp Caterpillar generator, ensuring both comfort and self-sufficiency. Inside, the formal living room showcases grand ceilings, intricate chandeliers, and a marble fireplace, creating an inviting atmosphere. The dining room is spacious enough to accommodate up to 40 guests and also includes a fireplace. The great room is notable for its double-height ceilings and large windows that offer panoramic views of the pool and surrounding gardens, integrating the indoor and outdoor environments. The European-inspired kitchen is outfitted with Italian cabinetry, a breakfast room, and a custom La Cornue range from France. An additional chef’s kitchen, equipped with professional-grade appliances, facilitates large-scale entertaining. For work and relaxation, the home provides a paneled study in the west wing, complete with LED-lit bookcases and a marble fireplace, and a second study or receiving room in the east wing. The main level primary bedroom suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a living room with a marble fireplace, soaring tray ceilings, LED lighting, and chevron hardwood flooring. The accompanying spa-inspired primary bathroom includes heated floors, a dual shower, multiple vanities, and a soaking tub that overlooks private gardens. An adjoining dressing room offers floor-to-ceiling European cabinets and custom mirrors. A second primary suite on the upper level is brightly lit and boasts a double-sided dressing room. The lower level is designed for entertainment and wellness, housing a large gathering room with 11-foot ceilings, a 150-inch marble fireplace, and a custom crystal chandelier above a wet bar. This level also includes a private tasting room and a screening room with a refreshment bar. A dedicated gym area features a private spa, a dry sauna, and a wet steam hammam. The outdoor swimming pool offers a built-in spa, a tanning ledge, a waterfall, two fire pits, and LED lighting, enhancing the resort-like experience. A climate-controlled pool house provides a built-in kitchen, a fireplace, and a full cabana bath. The property is listed by Mark Lowham at Sotheby’s International Realty. #LuxuryRealEstate #McLeanVirginia #ModernMansion #EstateForSale #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalExcellence #SpaAmenities #SmartHome

This blog post highlights a custom-built home located at 8522 Lewinsville Rd. in McLean, Virginia, offering a detailed look into its features and amenities. Situated on just over a half-acre, the property provides both convenience and a private setting. The house, constructed in 2008, spans 6,840 square feet across three levels and includes six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The interior design emphasizes luxury and attention to detail, evident from the moment one steps inside. The main level and all bedrooms are adorned with cherry hardwood floors, providing a cohesive and elegant aesthetic throughout. The formal dining room showcases intricate three-piece crown molding and detailed woodwork, adding a touch of classic sophistication. The kitchen is designed for both functionality and style, featuring dual sinks, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. It seamlessly opens into a family room, which is equipped with a gas fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space for gatherings. The family room also offers direct access to a den, providing additional versatile living space. The primary bedroom is a significant highlight, characterized by its tray ceilings and recessed lighting, which enhance the room's spaciousness and ambiance. This master suite further boasts two walk-in closets, offering ample storage and organizational solutions for personal belongings, making daily routines more streamlined. The en-suite bathroom complements the primary bedroom with a walk-in shower, providing a modern and accessible bathing option, alongside a bathtub for those who prefer a relaxing soak after a long day. Outdoor living is equally prioritized in this property. A flagstone patio extends from the house, presenting an ideal setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. The expansive half-acre backyard offers considerable space for various outdoor activities, gardening, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. The lower level of the home has been recently updated with luxury vinyl plank flooring and includes an additional bedroom, along with significant storage areas, increasing the overall utility and liveability of the residence. For those interested in this property, additional photographs and contact information for Jack Wang at RLAH Properties are available online. This custom-built home represents a blend of refined interior design, practical living spaces, and a desirable location. #McLeanRealEstate #CustomBuiltHome #LuxuryLiving #NorthernVirginiaHomes #RealEstateMarket #HomeForSale #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

Topeka, Kansas, founded in 1854, boasts a rich architectural heritage shaped by prominent historical figures who chose the city as their home. Through dedicated preservation efforts, several of these historically significant buildings, ranging from elaborate family residences to unique structures, continue to stand today. This article highlights three such landmarks: the Dillon House, the Anton-Woodring House, and Matrot Castle. The Dillon House, located at 404 S.W. 9th St., was constructed in 1911 by attorney Hiram Price Dillon in an Italian Renaissance style. Dillon, who made his wealth in Europe, settled in Topeka with his musician wife, Susie. Despite his affluence, he viewed his home as modest compared to others of its era. The house took three years to build and is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and materials. Its exterior features stone, brick, and clay tile, with lion statuary at the entrance and 48 lion images integrated throughout the structure, referencing the name 'Dalian' which translates to 'lion.' Other intricate details include a Greek god Hermes carving above the door, strong male figures flanking the grand hall fireplace made of marble and cast stone, and European stained glass windows lining the main staircase. Dillon's library features built-in bookshelves, stained wood wainscot, a green tiled fireplace with a Shakespearean quote, and stained glass windows depicting publishers' marks and literary figures. A leaded, stained glass series illustrates scenes from Lord Tennyson's 'The Idylls of the King.' The west wing originally housed separate music and dining rooms, now combined for events. Susie Dillon's gold-gilded piano, 'Goldie,' is also on display. The Dillons were known for their hospitality and philanthropy, anonymously fulfilling children's Santa wish lists and funding Auburn's first multi-racial swimming pool. Even their servants were treated well, with individual closets in their third-floor quarters, which also included a laundry room and Hiram's art gallery. The house was purchased by Ross Freeman of the Pioneer Group when it was in disrepair. A $5.5 million, three-year restoration protected its original stained glass and light fixtures. Today, it serves as an event space and houses the Dillon House staff and Pioneer Group offices. The Anton-Woodring House at 1011 S.W. Cambridge Ave., built in 1926 by Frederick Anton, founder of the Topeka Tent and Awning Company, showcases a blend of 20th-century Revival, Italian Renaissance, and Colonial styles with prairie accents. Anton, who prospered from awning improvements and WWII military contracts, commissioned architect Ralph Scamell. The property, originally named Terrace Lake, featured elaborate Italian-inspired gardens with stone, balustrades, a gazebo, and a formal reflecting pool, though the lake was filled in during the 1950s. Harry H. Woodring, the 25th Governor of Kansas and Secretary of War under President Franklin Roosevelt, bought the house in 1942 after being dismissed by Roosevelt. A personal tragedy struck Woodring when his son, Marcus, died of polio in 1946, leading him to abandon his re-election campaign. A political opponent, Charlie Rooney, built eight post-war houses on the adjacent land, replacing Woodring's front yard. The house later functioned as an office building before falling into disrepair and facing demolition. Don and Janet Chubb purchased the house in 1988 with a goal to restore it. The restoration, completed after 30 years, preserved the original architecture, including 13-foot ceilings with molded plaster, four fireplaces, and large windows overlooking the restored gardens. Woodring's library, located between the first and second floors, features African walnut paneling, a marble fireplace, and built-in bookcases, despite a past fire. The house has been associated with ghost stories, with former employees and tour participants reporting unusual occurrences, particularly in Marcus Woodring's former bedroom. However, the Chubbs dismiss the folklore, inviting visitors to appreciate the architecture and gardens, where several couples have become engaged. Matrot Castle, situated at 6424 S.W. Huntoon St., was built in 1883 by Seraphim Matrot, a French refugee who fled the Franco-Prussian War due to his socialist views. Matrot, an architect and contractor, constructed the 19th-century French Normandy-style castle with foot-thick walls and gun slits in turrets for defense, seeking safety as far inland as possible. The front door features a French fleur-de-lis molding with a concealed keyhole. Inside, the castle incorporates large open rooms flanked by smaller turret rooms across three stories, a spiral staircase, and a large wine cellar. The wine cellar served as a safe room with an underground escape tunnel. Matrot's plans to enter the wine business were thwarted by Kansas's 1881 Prohibition law. He died in 1898, and folklore suggests his coffin was lowered through a removed window due to the spiral staircase. Over time, modern amenities such as central air, electricity, plumbing, and a kitchen were added. A significant renovation in November 2004 involved brick and mortar work and the addition of grape arbors, while preserving the interior's period style and the structural exterior. The Kansas Heritage Foundation recently acquired Matrot Castle, intending to use it for charity events supporting educational initiatives, particularly international education. Davenport Winery uses the wine cellar as an outlet for its products on Saturdays. While the castle is currently closed to the public, the winery provides an opportunity to view the exterior and wine cellar. Clint Whitney, president of Midwest Management Group, hopes to further develop the property for weddings and events, recognizing its unique character and historical value as an asset for Topeka. #TopekaHistory #HistoricHomes #ArchitecturalPreservation #DillonHouse #AntonWoodringHouse #MatrotCastle #KansasArchitecture #HomeRestoration #LandmarkBuildings