If you’re a fan of clever design, you’ll love these architecturally stunning vacation homes. Beautiful and meticulously planned right down to the very last detail, these one-of-a-kind properties go far beyond the cookie-cutter style of traditional vacation homes, creating tranquil spaces that you’ll never want to leave.
So, what will it be? A hilltop hideaway in Thailand, or a beachfront bolthole in Barbados? Here are 10 unforgettable vacation homes built on solid design foundations.
Chaweng 4231
Koh Samui, Thailand
Wake up to the gentle chirruping of tropical forests at this jaw-dropping Thai villa, perched high on a hillside on the island of Koh Samui. Set around a glistening blue infinity pool, the property’s three shell-shaped pavilions provide airy, modern spaces for rest and relaxation.
Along with double-height ceilings and broad glass windows, the interiors are decked out with cool stone floors and traditional Thai materials, including silk and dark wood. Outside there are more than 14,000 sq ft of mature tropical gardens to enjoy, and the expansive pool deck offers 180-degree views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Destin 146
Florida, USA
Spirals and curves are a recurring theme at this beachfront mansion in Destin, Florida. The round-edged infinity pool acts as a natural focal point, and an elegant glass and steel staircase twists up through the property towards the 7 grand master bedrooms, which look out over the Gulf of Mexico.
Horseshoe-shaped, the main part of the villa is designed so that no matter where you are, the neighbouring properties remain hidden from view. Thanks to the swooping atriums, the multi-seater home theater and the open-plan kitchen-diner (which features curved sofas), there’s more than 14,000 sq ft of contemporary living space here, along with a 100-meter-long stretch of private beachfront.
Carlton 2
Barbados
A short stroll east from Lower Carlton Beach, this ultra-modern vacation home offers epic views of the Caribbean Sea from its huge infinity pool. Those same sea views can also be enjoyed from the comfort of the cathedral-like kitchen and dining area, thanks to its gleaming floor-to-ceiling windows.
Upstairs, the spacious master bedroom has a sleek wrap-around balcony. There’s even a large roof terrace to enjoy – the only trouble at Carlton 2 is deciding which sea view is your favorite.
Villa Mandalay
Seseh Tanah Lot, Bali
Mixing classic Balinese design with the best of modern comforts, Villa Mandalay is a stress-free sanctuary far from the usual hustle and bustle of South Bali. The villa’s three pavilions face an elegant 25m-long swimming pool, where you can soak, sunbathe, or enjoy cocktails as the sun sets over the surrounding countryside.
Solid wood floors combine with smooth stone walls and high vaulted ceilings to create a calm, cool environment. You’re also invited to enjoy the extensive collection of Indonesian art, or relax in the Finnish-style sauna, which overlooks a serene lotus pond.
Ocho Rios 6
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Beachfront living doesn’t get much better than this. Built on 3 acres of prime real estate, just inland from a private beach in Old Fort Bay, this sprawling luxury hideaway is fronted by one of Jamaica’s most impressive pools.
The entire residence is built with outdoor living in mind. That means you can eat breakfast on the covered terrace, enjoy a few games of tennis on the private court, and then seek shade beneath the gazebo, which has its own bar and dining area.
Cape Town 401
Cape Town, South Africa
Nestled in trendy Camps Bay and with views of the mountains and the ocean, this elegant 4-bedroom vacation home is designed to make the most of Cape Town’s magnificent natural light. The sunshine pours in through wide, square-edged windows, which help to blur the lines between inside and out, while stretches of natural wood contrast beautifully with concrete floors and ceilings.
The house is equipped with a private L-shaped swimming pool and a spa, along with a 3D cinema and several roomy open-plan living areas. When night falls, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Cape Town’s twinkling lights from the wonderful boat-shaped bathtub or the balconies (yes, there are two).
Need help choosing? Contact us and speak with one of our vacation home specialists!
