Elite Traveler Spring 2024

EXPLORE PROPERTY

Elite Luxury Homes FOR THIS ISSUE’S PROPERTY LISTINGS, WE HAD ONE THING ON OUR MIND: ENTERTAINING. FROM PRIVATE DINING ROOMS IN LONDON’S MOST EXCITING DEVELOPMENT IN YEARS TO ALFRESCO SUPPERS IN THE HEART OF PARIS, THESE HOMES ARE ALL BUT MADE FOR HOSTING BY KIM AYLING Grandiose almost beyond belief, this Houston mansion is about as close you could get to buying a French chateau this side of the Atlantic. Located within the city’s stately River Oaks community, the fi ve-bedroom home at 3630 Willowick sits amid 1.5 acres of manicured gardens adorned with statues and water features, and it backs up to a country club and golf course. Although very intentionally set back from the road and satisfyingly private, wrought-iron gates give passersby a minute glimpse at the opulent property beyond — this is a facade that was designed to be gaped at. Behind those impressive gates, the grand manor house is a vision of architectural symmetry. The property’s interiors push maximalism to its limits and feature marble harlequin fl ooring, hand-painted murals, captivating chandeliers and antique fi replaces. Social areas form the real heart of the house — the OTT black and gold chef’s kitchen convivially opens out onto a small dining room and patio for superior hosting opportunities. Another formal dining room and several lounges complete the fi rst fl oor, with an extra family room on the second fl oor. Each of the four secondary bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms are spacious, but the owner’s suite really shines with a dual bath, a two-level closet and its own patio. Other standout features include the full gym, a wine cellar, an outdoor pool and a game room. Separate guest or sta ff quarters above the three-car garage add to the appeal. $29m. Contact Rachel Solar, real estate associate, rachel.solar@ sothebys.realty, +1 713 416 1600, sothebysrealty.com 3630 WILLOWICK Houston, Texas