The essence of a beautiful home lies within its design, layout, functionality, surroundings and the ambience it exudes. To the homeowners a beautiful home is about the feeling of comfort and security it gives, to others it's the visual look and the presence it occupies in its surroundings.
Over the centuries architectural styles have changed from the character of old English castles and Tudor manor houses, to the rounded curves of the Bauhaus movement and the sleek lines and glass frontage of modern day contemporary design. At times these influences have been blended to provide a stark contrast between the old and the new.
Sleek Contemporary Design
Today’s contemporary design style offers a feeling of clean, uncluttered, luxury living with it's open plan spaces, straight lines and geometric shapes as well as the use of materials such as large expanses of glass, stainless steel and contemporary lighting.
A beautiful example of contemporary design is this luxury property in London. The architectural style of this residence was designed to provide an extremely roomy luxury pad which boosts three reception rooms, seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, indoor pool, cinema and gym.
Englishman’s Home is his Castle
In contrast to the sleek style and smooth lines of today’s modernist designs there are many homes which take their place within the grounds of historic cottages, English castles or French Chateaus. When converted and brought up to date these properties offer a beautiful contrast between the comforts of modern day living amid the setting of an historic building.
A perfect example of this is ‘Devizes Castle’ in Wiltshire. This stunning property dates back to the reign of King Henry I. The original part of the building is Grade 1 listed and the castle is set on an elevated position with magnificent views across the Wiltshire countryside. The property features a two kitchens, breakfast room, five reception rooms, seven bedrooms, four bathrooms, utility and boot room, cinema, wine cellar and extensive surrounding gardens.
A Mansion Fit for a King
When it comes to the extreme end of the property scale for luxury, opulence and grandeur then one of the most stunning and expensive properties in the world has to be ‘Updown Court’ in Windlesham, England. This mansion boasts an unbelievable 103 rooms, 5 swimming pools, a bowling alley, cinema and squash courts. Built in the 19th century and reconstructed in 1987 following a fire the mansion saw a magnificent £36 million facelift.
More Property and Travel Related Resources from around the World
Cannes Property For Sale – A selection of luxurious French properties in and around the city of Cannes
Provence Property – A selection of properties in the beautiful Provence region of France, famed for its landscapes and vine yards.
Lakenheath Housing for rent – Great housing available for rent in Lakenheath, close to the USAF base as well as a range of shops and amenities.