The Allure of Secondary Residences: Vacation Destinations and Investment Properties
In the world of opulent real estate and bespoke interior design, residences that are not primary homes comprise a growing segment of the luxury housing market. These exquisite properties, often located in some of the world's most desirable locations, serve as exclusive retreats, vacation destinations, and investment opportunities. Designing these homes takes into account the differences between primary and secondary residences (and in some cases, multiple residences for clients).
During the pandemic, some clients and colleagues moved to their secondary homes, or tried living in cities and countries other than the location of their primary residence. With the rise of smart home technology, and more work-from-home opportunities, one can now live and work just about anywhere in the world.
THE APPEAL OF SECONDARY RESIDENCES
1. Exclusive Retreats
Owning a luxury secondary residence provides an exclusive escape from routine. These homes, often situated in picturesque locations such as beachfronts, mountains, or exotic islands, offer unparalleled privacy and tranquillity. Whether it’s a chalet in the Swiss Alps or a villa in the Caribbean, these properties promise a sanctuary of peace and indulgence. Many of these residences are within private communities that offer amenities such as golf and other sporting activities, dining and entertaining facilities, and spas for resident members and their guests only.
2. Bespoke Secondary Homes
Secondary residences offer exposure to different cultures and lifestyles. Whether it’s a modern penthouse in New York City, a villa in Italy, or a beachfront home on Cape Cod, the interiors should reflect the personality of the client and incorporate the architecture and setting into the design. When designing secondary residences for our clients, we listen carefully as our clients describe the rhythms of their lives in these locations, and create special places for family and friends to gather, relax, and re-energize. This additional home allows a respite from the day-to-day schedules of the primary residence, providing an experience that feels nurturing, beautiful, and functional.
3. Investment Opportunities
Luxury properties in prime locations can also provide an investment opportunity. Over time, they tend to appreciate in value, offering substantial returns. Moreover, they provide an opportunity for rental income when not in use, especially in popular vacation destinations, for clients willing to share their vacation homes.
DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR VACATION HOMES
Owning a vacation home means anytime can be a vacation. Some of our dream destinations for vacation homes In the United States
1. Big Sky, Montana
A haven for winter sports enthusiasts, Big Sky offers luxurious mountain homes that are perfect for ski getaways. Summer in Montana is fabulous as well with beautiful hiking trails and lakes. The town is also known for its high-end boutiques, gourmet dining, and cultural festivals, making it a year-round destination. Other desirable mountain destinations include Park City, Utah; Aspen, Colorado; and Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Big Sky, Montana | New Home by LDC colleague WRJ Interior Design
2. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Not far from Boston, Cape Cod and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket offer resorts with vacation home residences, and scenic beaches. Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard offer picturesque villages and serene beaches. Other coastal locations to consider: the Hamptons,New York; Watch Hill, Rhode Island; Kennebunkport, Maine; and other beautiful towns along the eastern seaboard.
3. Malibu, California
Known for its stunning Pacific coastline and celebrity residents, Malibu offers some of the most exclusive beachfront properties in the world. These homes provide the perfect blend of privacy, luxury, and natural beauty, with the added allure of being part of the Los Angeles lifestyle. Other west coast destinations to consider include La Jolla, California; San Juan Islands, Washington; or many of the Hawaiian islands.
Outside of the U.S.:
1. The French Riviera, France
The Côte d'Azur is synonymous with glamour and luxury. Renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, it boasts an array of opulent villas and estates. Towns like Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Nice are attractive for their blend of natural beauty, sophisticated culture, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany’s rolling hills, historic architecture, and world-renowned cuisine attract those seeking a blend of rustic charm and sophisticated living. Owning a villa in one of Tuscany’s quaint towns like Lucca, Fiesole, Montepulciano, and San Gimignano, among others, means enjoying the beauty of the Italian countryside while having access to the region’s cultural and gastronomic riches.
3. Santa Cruz, Costa Rica
A bounty of flora and fauna defines most locations in Costa Rica, from the mountains to the crystal waters of the Pacific Ocean on its west coast, and the Caribbean on the east. A mecca for those who want large plots of land and privacy.
Secondary homes are redefining what it means to live luxuriously. We’re here for that.