Date Archives: March 2017

Boca Raton is home to some of the most prestigious and desirable gated communities in the South Florida region and throughout the world. Stunning architecture, well-maintained landscaping, convenient water access, and other attractive features make these communities desirable for the sophisticated buyer. Above all, the safety, privacy and exclusivity of these gated communities make them especially noteworthy. Take a neighborhood tour behind the gates of these neighborhoods where you'll find all of the above and so much more.  

The Sanctuary

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Distinguished as one of the most prestigious gated communities in the entire nation, The Sanctuary offers the utmost in quiet seclusion in Boca Raton's internationally acclaimed yachting enclave. Featuring some of Boca Raton's finest residences, estates in The Sanctuary are nestled on winding tree-lined streets and finger isles capturing protected views over the tranquil waterway to a lush nature preserve. Deepwater dockage for substantial yachts is a prized asset of this community. Some residences are located on expansive double lots with multi-yacht dockage, while other coveted estates are located on a point, opening up panoramic views over the water and preserve. In The Sanctuary's sublime seclusion and idyllic natural beauty, many residences feature magnificent outdoor entertainment spaces with amenities that rival those of an exclusive private resort.  

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

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One of the nation's most sought-after yachting communities, established more than half a century ago, Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club takes its place as Boca Raton's prestigious signature address, synonymous with the resort lifestyle envisioned by Addison Mizner in the 1920s. In fact, Forbes included Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club amongst the nation's most exclusive gated communities. Many properties here feature private yacht dockage at their doorstep, and have quick access to the open ocean through the nearby Boca Raton Inlet.  Some are sprawling compound-like estates encompassing multiple lots, and several overlook the magnificent Royal Palm golf course, a signature design by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. Residents of Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club enjoy exclusive club amenities, such as a full-service marina, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and croquet courts, and fine dining.  

Le Lac

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Le Lac is a private gated enclave featuring 32 luxury estates in Boca Raton. This exclusive community is nestled amongst an idyllic setting featuring expansive lakes, lush greenery, and access to nearby upscale amenities. Situated upon 200 acres of land, Le Lac is a vast and scenic neighborhood dotted with sparkling lakes throughout. Estate properties in Le Lac are situated on over an acre of land, providing privacy and serenity for these impressive mansions. The community hosts 32 estates valued from $5 million to over $20 million. Surrounded on all sides by golf courses and country clubs, this is the ideal residence for the golf enthusiast and socialite. Le Lac residents enjoy the privacy of their own exclusive community while still maintaining a reasonable distance from several of the area's attractions.  

Addison Estates

Addison Estates is a private and exclusive enclave located within the Boca Raton Resort and Club in Boca Raton. With golf course access, lake views, and a myriad of outdoor activities within the area, this is an ideal luxury community for the prestigious buyer. Addison Estates hosts just 15 estate homes ranging from $2 million to $4 million due to their grandiose sizes, access to world-class amenities, and modern features. Several estates feature home movie theaters, multi-car garages, private pools, gyms, and more. Addison Estates is a highly sought-after and desirable community to call home.  

St. Andrews Country Club

Uncompromising standards distinguish St. Andrews Country Club as one of Boca Raton's finest gated country club communities, where exclusive amenities and South Florida's tropical beauty come together for an unmatched lifestyle. Sporting and social activities center on the impressive 125,000±-square-foot clubhouse and two magnificent 18-hole championship golf courses designed in the St. Andrews style, including the signature Palmer Course by Arnold Palmer and the Olde Course by Gene Bates. There is also an extensive tennis center with 15 clay courts, plus an expansive fitness center and a luxurious spa facility. St. Andrews Country Club hosts 739 exceptional estate homes on tranquil winding streets offering breathtaking vistas of the golf courses, lakes, and wooded preserve land.  

Woodfield Country Club

Prestigious Woodfield Country Club is one of South Florida's premier family-friendly club communities and has received coveted recognition as one of the Platinum Clubs of America.  Overlooking the meandering 18-hole Bob Cupp-designed championship golf course, the lavish 90,000±-square-foot clubhouse serves as the centerpiece of the community's resort lifestyle and is complete with a golf pro shop, numerous dining venues, and a grand ballroom. Equally impressive are the luxurious fitness center/spa, award-winning 20-court tennis center, and spectacular Cascades aquatic center. Woodfield Country Club is comprised of 20 distinctive neighborhoods hosting a variety of single-family residences, townhomes, and villas. On a lakefront cul-de-sac, the Carlton Place enclave provides the setting for some of the most prestigious Woodfield Country Club mansions. Another highly prized enclave is Princeton Estates, home to only 19 ultra-luxurious residences.  

Stonebridge Country Club

Photo Courtesy of Stonebridge Country Club

In western Boca Raton, Stonebridge Country Club is a private gated community with just under 400 residences on 400± acres of lushly landscaped grounds. Known for its elegance and luxury, Stonebridge Country Club features a new 40,000±-square-foot clubhouse as its centerpiece, complete with an elegant dining room, Grille Room, and Lakeside Lounge. The Club's newly renovated golf course designed by Karl Litten plays host to the LPGA Tour. Other amenities include the newly renovated 6,000±-square-foot fitness center and the tennis complex with 16 Har-Tru courts, four of which are lighted for night play. Stonebridge Country Club hosts spacious custom-built residences overlooking the scenic golf course and tranquil private lakes from their beautiful indoor and outdoor living spaces.  

Which gated Boca Raton community do you have your eyes on?

We would love to know your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below.

We are fortunate to be surrounded by gorgeous tropical scenery in South Florida, where you will encounter ocean vistas, green foliage, cool breezes, and an abundance of sunshine. You don't have to go anywhere at all to experience a luxurious resort-style vacation at home, whether you're relaxing in your outdoor lanai or socializing by the pool at a neighborhood country club. However, when the opportunity arises, these luxurious travel destinations are worth adding to your bucket list. They provide a change of scenery, as you cross-country ski through the Swiss Alps or sip on wine in Napa Valley. Likewise, the familiar tropical destinations allow you to fully relax in the sun while experiencing the beauty of another culture, climate and region.  

1. Velaa Private Island

Photo Courtesy of Velaa Private Island

You simply cannot get more exclusive and luxurious than a visit to a private island. Velaa Private Island provides the ultimate escape, as you encounter the stunning beauty of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. Select from their beach villas located along the water or their floating villas stretching out over the ocean, and bask in the sun in your private pool and terrace. Get the royal treatment at the spa, go diving to experience stunning marine life, stay active at their sports facilities, stretch your body, mind and spirit at yoga, enjoy exceptional wines at the island's tower-like cellar, and cruise around the island. Choose from their wide selection of water sports, including sailing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, parasailing, kite surfing and more. Between all of these action-packed activities, indulge in the creative plates at Velaa's collection of eateries.  

2. Los Cabos, Mexico

Photo Courtesy of Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort

Las Ventanas al Paraiso is the ultimate tropical getaway, offering a wide range of accommodations along the white-sand beaches of Los Cabos. In addition to the desirable services offered to all resort guests, there are a number of upscale amenities available at an additional charge, including golf, a spa, tennis instruction, beach cabanas, desert excursions, horseback riding, a beach cinema, yachting, surfing, sailing, sunset cocktail cruises, pets' luxury programs, a Mini Cooper rental, and much more. Experience these amazing features within a three-bedroom oceanview suite, three-bedroom oceanview villa, or even the Ty Warner Mansion. This 28,000-square-foot mansion is poised directly on the water's edge, offering panoramic views overlooking the Sea of Cortez. Ty Warner guests enjoy the services of a round-the-clock staff, including a personal assistant and butler.  

3. Cavtat, Croatia

Croatia has become a popular travel destination as of late, especially in Dubrovnik, a walled historic city along the sea. Look out over turquoise waters teeming with colorful sailboats, run your finger along ancient buildings, and take in the cool ocean breeze on the beach's white sand. Escape from this bustling city to Hotel Croatia Cavtat located on a pine-forested peninsula overlooking the unspoilt Cavtat Bay just thirty minutes south of Dubrovnik. This exquisite resort hosts two private beaches, an outdoor pool, a spa, and five upscale restaurants. Take it all in by booking the Ambassador Suite, offering sea views and an expansive terrace.

 

4. Venice, Italy

Photo Courtesy of Corte di Gabriela

Walk through the cobblestone streets of Venice, Italy, surrounded by charming canals teeming with gondolas. Enjoy your visit in this captivating and romantic city to the fullest with a stay at Corte di Gabriela, a luxury hotel set in a distinguished 19th century palace in the heart of Venice. Corte di Gabriela hosts 11 exclusive suites, featuring exquisitely furnished rooms that offer a refreshing blend of historic and modern design. Book your stay in one of the luxury rooms, where you'll find meaningful and attention-grabbing decor pieces and beautiful touches of design by Philippe Starck or Mies Van Der Rhoe. Get swept away by the captivating charm of Venetian culture within your temporary home in the heart of the city.  

5. Helena Bay, New Zealand

Photo Courtesy of Helena Bay Resort

If you have yet to visit New Zealand, it should be added to your travel bucket list immediately. This large island nation in the Pacific Ocean is filled with majestic mountains, rolling hills, bright green vegetation, teal blue waters, and exotic wildlife. Become immersed in the area's natural beauty at Helena Bay Resort, an exclusive oasis along the pristine coastline of New Zealand's North Island. In fact, Helena Bay Resort was named the best new hotel in the world by the luxury global research group, Luxury Travel Intelligence. Experience this world-renowned hotel with a stay in one of their villa suites or junior suites. The two villa suites have extensive balconies with views overlooking the ocean, fireplaces, a minibar, a separate living room, and much more.  

6. Galápagos Islands

If you're looking for a true escape, you can't get much more secluded than a trip to the Galápagos Islands located off the coast of Ecuador in the vast Pacific Ocean. Experience the tranquility, sunshine and beauty of these breathtaking volcanic islands straddling the equator. Maximize the serenity and beauty of this area at Pikaia Lodge, one of the most advanced eco-friendly structures in the entire world. Their contemporary and state-of-the-art accommodations ensure a comfortable stay, including panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, terraces, private pools, luxurious bathtubs, and many more desirable features. As a Pikaia Lodge guest, you can enjoy guided land and marine programs, wildlife sightings, and access to some of the finest beaches of the Galápagos Islands.  

7. Papagayo, Costa Rica

Escape to the serenity and beauty of Costa Rica's isolated Peninsula Papagayo within Villa Manzu, an eight-suite estate with two swimming pools, a spa, a theater room, an expansive bar, and much more. The attentive staff at Villa Manzu will enrich your experience, as they prepare incredible meals, provide butler and maid services, educate you about the area and its attractions, and even drive you around in a Range Rover, Ford Explorer SUV, or a Jeep Wrangler. The estate is located just minutes from a golf course, tennis courts, a marina, and several hiking paths that lead from the villa to several nearby beaches.  

8. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Photo Courtesy of The Conservatorium

Experience the breathtaking architecture and enchanting culture of Amsterdam, a city laced with historic canals, bicycles, flower stands, houseboats, and tall, skinny seventeenth-century buildings. Dwell in the midst of it all at The Conservatorium, crowned the number one luxury hotel in the Netherlands. Located in the Museum Square district, The Conservatorium offers immediate access to the Van Gogh Museum, Concertgebouw, Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark and Amsterdam's most indulgent upscale shopping. The hotel itself is a work of art, featuring Art Nouveau interiors and eye-catching contemporary design by designer Piero Lissoni. Indulge at the hotel's impeccable eateries and bars, and relax at the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre with a spa, fitness center, lounge bar, and more.  

9. Napa Valley, California

With a trip to Napa Valley, you can experience one of the world's most desirable destinations without packing your passport. This renowned wine region hosts a myriad of vineyards, resorts, spas, hot springs, upscale eateries, and many more luxurious attractions. Experience the wonders of this area with a stay at Bardessono, a contemporary luxury resort nestled in the heart of Yountville, which is completely surrounded by vineyards. Your comfort and satisfaction is the utmost priority at this hospitable hotel, and every one of their 62 rooms was designed with the guest experience in mind. Your stay is maximized with in-room spa services, an on-site restaurant with farm-fresh ingredients, a rooftop pool, gardens, and much more.

 

10. Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Photo Courtesy of Virgin Limited Edition

Necker Island is a private island paradise amongst the British Virgin Islands. Experience the wonders of the Caribbean in this gorgeous, exclusive setting — whether you book an individual room or reserve the entire island. During select weeks throughout the year, the island has "Celebration Weeks," where you may book an individual room and share the island with other couples and families. Otherwise, you may reserve the entirety of Necker Island for 34 people total, in which you will have access to the Great House with eight bedrooms and one master suite, sleeping a total of 18 guests. Further accommodation includes a bunk room, six Balinese-style houses, and two Temple Houses. This is the perfect arrangement for a large family reunion, wedding, or a private getaway event.  

11. Swiss Alps

Photo Courtesy of The Chedi Andermatt

For a change of scenery, head to the Swiss Alps for a cozy vacation amidst a beautiful mountain setting. The Chedi Andermatt is a luxe hotel nestled in the Alps just 2 minutes from the ski lifts at Naetschen and 4 minutes from Gemsstock Mountain. Experience the ultimate in luxury within the hotel's gorgeous interior combining Alpine chic with Asian expression. The posh accommodations feature wood, leather and stone accents to create a cozy environment for guests. After an active day spent at the slopes or exploring the many attractions of this scenic area, unwind at the spa and grab a bite to eat at any of the Chedi's extraordinary restaurants.

You are invited to join Premier Estate Properties for the unveiling of new renderings of 327 Royal Palm, an ultra-luxury condominium in the heart of Boca Raton. This exclusive event will take place on March 22 starting at 6 p.m. on the 11th-floor terrace of the new Hyatt Place, offering a bird's eye view of the brand new complex. Enjoy champagne and chocolates while observing photo renderings and the nearby property, and receive the first chance to purchase one of the few just-released remaining units. You will even have the opportunity to mingle with the developers of 327 Royal Palm. Scot Karp, director of the Premier Estate Properties Ultraluxury Condominium Division, is the exclusive listing agent for 327 Royal Palm. With 37 years of experience in the industry, Scot is one of the most successful real estate professionals in the nation and has received several top accolades throughout his $1 billion+ career. In addition to its enticing brand-new appeal, 327 Royal Palm residences feature private elevators to each unit, panoramic impact floor-to-ceiling glass windows, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, Italian porcelain and marble flooring, private balconies, access to a resort-style rooftop pool and sundeck, and much more. Units vary in floor plan and amenities, and range from $1.599 million to $2.9 million. Learn more about the units for sale in 327 Royal Palm. If you are interested in learning more about these stunning ultra-luxury condominiums in Boca Raton, please join us at this prestigious event. We would love to tell you more about this gorgeous building over a glass of champagne. If you are unable to attend, please contact Scot Karp to schedule a private consultation. RSVP for this event by contacting Scot Karp before Friday, March 17.

The only thing better than a day spent at a luxurious spa is the ability to pamper yourself at home in your very own spa-worthy master suite. These spectacular South Florida estates host impressive master suites with gorgeous bath tubs, relaxing bedrooms, marble and other high-end materials, relaxing seating areas, and many more desirable features. Sit back and relax through this mesmerizing tour of spa-worthy master suites in the area.  

Renaissance-Style Suite With Stately Columns

This Italian trophy in the Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club is reminiscent of a Renaissance-era castle. The master bedroom has stately columns, a fireplace and gorgeous stonework that matches the remainder of the estate. And the master bathroom has a spa-like atmosphere, with calming marbles, two separate showers and a central vintage bath tub. The adjoining walk-in closet is enormous, and even has two islands for extra storage.  

Expansive Master Suite With Rich Wood Details

This palatial Mediterranean-inspired estate in Fort Lauderdale's beautiful Coral Ridge community is fit for a king. The expansive master suite features a morning bar, two walk-in closets, and a lavish marble bathroom with a jetted tub, shower and separate water closet. Look out over the peaceful waterway from the suite's balcony or relax in the bedroom's comfortable seating area.  

Elegant Master Suite With Waterway Views

Breathtaking Intracoastal views await at this Delray Beach gem, featuring an exquisite and elegant master suite. The luxe first-floor suite opens its doors to the pool patio and views of the Waterway. The suite was designed with attractive features, such as wood-planked floors, a double-tray ceiling, two walk-in closets, marble tiling, a large jetted tub, a sleek glass shower and gold accents.  

Enormous Chic + Modern Master Suite

This modern waterfront estate in Boca Raton hosts a restful sanctuary of a master suite featuring a sitting area with a sleek fireplace. The enormous chic master bathroom features two separate water closets, a sculptural soaking tub, an immense glass-encased shower, and glass doors leading to a relaxing screened outdoor atrium with a wall fountain and a firepit. The master quarters also includes two boutique-style wardrobe rooms, one with a connecting walk-in cedar closet.  

Glass-Walled Suite With Double-Sided Fireplace

This spellbinding oceanfront paradise in Vero Beach was designed by architect Erik Helgen in collaboration with AIA. Effortless indoor/outdoor living awaits in this tropical oasis by the sea. The glass-walled master suite offers breathtaking ocean views from the private interior or out on the balcony. A double-sided linear fireplace is shared by the master bedroom and spa-like bathroom featuring a soaking tub, steam shower, and an outdoor shower. The walk-through wardrobe room and sitting room with a fireplace and morning bar provide extra spaces for relaxation.  

Elegant Suite With Castle-Like Features

Secluded in the guard-gated Stone Creek Ranch enclave overlooking a lake, this Mediterranean-inspired palazzo was crafted with expert artistry and a meticulous attention to detail. The master suite is especially noteworthy, with castle-like design elements like a comfortable sitting room, chandeliers, columns, timeless neutral colors and more elegant features. In this voluminous master suite wing, you will also find two-custom fitted wardrobe rooms (one with a stunning boutique-inspired design) and two sumptuous marble baths, one opening to the lakefront grounds and the other to a private, walled garden.  

Boutique Masterpiece With Balcony Spa

Elegance and beauty encapsulate every square inch of this Palm-Beach inspired masterpiece in Princeton Estates. Stretching across an expansive upstairs wing, the stunning fire-lit master suite resembles a boutique hotel with a salon-like double bathroom and a relaxing spa on the balcony commanding panoramic golf course views. The indulgent experience is magnified by nearby amenities within the prestigious Woodfield Country Club.  

Simple + Refined Master Suite

The simplicity of this Delray Beach estate's master suite provides a refreshing look and relaxing feel. With two walk-in closets, a stunning waterside bath with stone finishes, a glass-enclosed shower and two vanities, this bathroom is a dream. The balcony off the bedroom overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway and the property's resort-style pool below.  

Which spa-like atmosphere looks the most luxurious?

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Architecture has the unique ability to inspire, set a tone, and say so much without saying a word at all. Architectural design has evolved significantly over the years, taking on a variety of styles that reflect the events, culture and personality of their time. Talented and innovative designers are always searching for ways to revolutionize the industry, coming up with ideas and styles the world has never seen before. Let's take a look at some of the most impressive and innovative trends we are seeing in the architecture sphere at both the commercial and residential level.  

Minimalism

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It's no secret that less is more for the current architecture world — at both the macro and micro level. Minimalist exteriors feature large and bold shapes, sharp lines, shiny metals, and natural materials, and interiors host bright white walls, chic built-ins and expansive rooms. In fact, the color white epitomizes this clean and simple look that is so desirable right now. Fueled by modernity and technology, this trend is taking over the design world, inside and out.  

Sustainability

Photo Courtesy of Tesla

Design typically corresponds to the current cultural concerns during the time it was conceived. So it's no surprise that builders are starting to construct with a greater emphasis on sustainability and ecological intelligence. Sustainable building, commonly known as green construction, means both the structure and building process are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient. We have noticed a major increase in solar-powered homes throughout the world, as architects use both active and passive techniques to reduce energy dependency in buildings and homes, often through the installation of solar panels. Tesla's solar-powered roofing materials are invisible when viewed from the street, yet are fully exposed to the sun from above. Sleek tile designs include Tuscan glass, slate glass, textured glass, and smooth glass.  

Glass Walls

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We are also seeing an increase in floor-to-ceiling glass walls in both corporate structures and modern homes. Many "walls" slide back and forth or open with the press of a button to create seamless indoor/outdoor living. Glass walls add a striking modern look and feel, let in glorious rays of sunlight to a home's interior, and maximize vistas by providing a panoramic snapshot of surrounding scenery. This transparent design feature is especially attractive for South Florida homebuyers, as they can more easily appreciate water views, enjoy indoor/outdoor tropical living, and soak in as much sun as possible from their home's interior.  

Rooftop Gardens

Photo Courtesy of Guz Architects

Along the lines of sustainability, rooftop gardens have started to emerge atop homes and corporate structures all around the world. In fact, some buildings depend on their green roofs to improve the quality of the structure, the environment, and the wellbeing of its inhabitants. Benefits of rooftop gardens include stormwater management, improved air quality, energy efficiency, noise reduction, and much more. Not to mention, the aesthetic appeal of these gardens in the sky adds a significant touch of natural beauty to an otherwise unnatural structure.  

Mixed Materials

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Architects have become braver as of late, daring to combine unpredictable materials to create unified and stunning works of art. This concept is similar to a dish served at a high-end eatery that combines textures, flavors and temperatures to create a cohesive experience. Likewise, mixed materials in architecture add a unique element and interest to the overall look and feel of a design. You can easily see this trend on exteriors of new construction modern homes or buildings, where the designer has layered blocks of contrasting materials, often in square or rectangular shapes. We particularly admire the combination of cold metals and warm wood, which emit a clean, sophisticated and modern look when paired together.  

Invisible Buildings

Photo Courtesy of GDS Architects

The surreal concept of invisible buildings may not seem achievable, but master architects aspire to make this dream a reality. Mirror-like facades help buildings blend into their surrounding environment by reflecting the sky, neighboring buildings, and other elements of the landscape. Architects in South Korea are taking this a step further with their plans to create the world's first invisible tower. Tower Infinity will use a high-tech LED facade system that creates a reflective cover surrounding the massive 1,476-foot structure that will appear transparent by day and bright at night.  

What architectural trends have captured your attention?

Let us know in the comments below!