Listing of the day
Location Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Price: C$5,695,000 (US$4,215,084)
This house is "so much more than a residence," explains Lisa Robinson, sales representative of Sotheby’s International Realty, Canada, "it is a work of art."
The owner, selling because his business is taking him away from Canada to Costa Rica, has spent years customizing the space, inspired by his travels abroad. There are reclaimed pine beams and hand-carved doors from Mexico, handmade terracotta tiles from Morocco, and a "custom finish" on the walls and ceilings evoking a Tuscan villa.
Houses on Riverside Drive, the "Golden Mile" of Windsor, are some of the area's most expensive real estate. This one, a waterfront property on the most desirable part of the Detroit River, has an unobstructed 180-degree view of the water, Belle Isle and Detroit city skyline, including from its two rooftop terraces.
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"This home would suit many," Ms. Robinson says. "Its unique, relaxed, and elegant décor evokes a warm feeling that would appeal to families, and those looking for an artful home to entertain in."
Stats
The 5,266-square-foot home has three bedrooms and five bathrooms and is set on 1.58 acres of land.
Design Pedigree
Originally built in 1998, the house was renovated in 2014 by architect Daniel Soleski. New additions include an interior grotto and water feature in the entrance hall, an atrium skylight that runs the length of the property, from the front entrance to the rear walk-out, and a fluid, open floor plan.
The exterior is a contemporary interpretation of the ornate French Second Empire style with mansard roof, while the exotic interiors are a collaboration with local designer Robert Gauthier and the owner.
Amenities
A sunken saltwater swimming pool, with three waterfalls and a whirlpool, sits on the edge of the river. There's also a riverfront sitting area with gas fire pit, and a custom pergola in an outdoor dining area with built-in barbecue for sunny days. Yachty types can take advantage of two docks and a boat lift that can accommodate a 40-foot vessel.
Multiple covered-parking facilities include a two-car garage, two-car carport, two-car detached garage and detached single car garage currently used for storage.
There's even an elevator for lowering a vehicle from the built-in garage into the lower level of the house.
The luxurious master bedroom suite has a gas fireplace, den, coffee station, ensuite bath with steam shower and whirlpool tub and a walk-in closet. Downstairs is an exercise room with adjoining steam room.
Smart home technology controls the lighting, built-in sound system, security system and air conditioning; there are automatic window shutters throughout.
More:Why 25% of Canada’s Luxury Homes Are Bought by Foreigners
Neighborhood notes
The house is just 10 minutes from two crossings into the United States, at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and the Ambassador Bridge, and a short walk to several small waterfront parks and the Riverwalk, "one of the most most beautiful spots in southwestern Ontario," according to Ms. Robinson. "Along the Detroit River, the Riverwalk has walking paths, biking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas and sculpture gardens."
Agent: Lisa Robinson, Sotheby's International Realty Canada
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