When it comes to the latest and greatest in ultra–luxury, opulence and sheer “Wow” factor nothing beats the Greater San Antonio Builder Association’s annual Parade of Homes. This year’s Parade returns to The Dominion, inaugurating a new section of the exclusive enclave called Les Chateaux. The event is open to the public Sept. 1–9. Here’s what you will see:
Casa Magna Homes: Builder Tony Khalaf ’s chateau–inspired estate features a stunning combination of fantasy, practicality and the highest of high–end finishes. Highlights include a card room with a full bar, a cigar lounge, exercise suite, wine room, attached casita, two–story library and wonderfully detailed ceiling treatments. A gorgeous domed ceiling sets off the spa–like master suite bath. The pool will be talked about for years to come with a lighthouse, lava rock beach feature and a swim in grotto with flat screen tv. Specs: $3,000,000, 8,200 sq. ft., 5 BR/5.5 baths/3 cargarage plus porte corchere, Lot size: .72 acres (adjacent .67 ac. lot for sale at $350,000). List agent: Jason Glast, Phyllis Browning Co., (210) 386–1833.
Character House: Arched iron gates leading into a beautifully landscaped interior courtyard with fireplace invites you to the front door of the Character House Parade Home. An Aga kitchen package is designed with the chef extraordinaire in mind including 6 burners and 6 ovens; “Rachel Ray style.” The home theatre is easily accessible from the generous family great room. The pool and spa are the backdrop for this winner. Specs: $1,900,000, Square footage, 6,264, 5 BR/5.5 baths/3 car–garage, Lot size: .55 acres. List agent: Debra Janes, Kuper Sothebys, (210) 573–4040.
Chad Powell Homes: This high–end builder has taken the Parade look in a different direction with this English Tudor–European traditional creation featuring an elegant limestone facade with brick accents. The bells and whistles include a full basement wine cellar, a guest cottage and a jet–propelled pool that functions like a swimming treadmill for instant exercise. Specs: $2,450,000, 7,132 sq. ft., 5 BR/6.5 baths/4 car–garage, Lot size: .55 acres. List agent: Missy Stagers, Coldwell Banker – D’Ann Harper., (210) 483–6436.
Galleria Homes: For this dynamic project, Galleria Homes, a frequent award–winning Parade of Homes builder, was influenced by the early 20th century mansions of Olmos Park and Monte Vista with authentic Spanish details. A trademark of Galleria’s style is a courtyard entry with California–inspired outdoor living spaces. In this case a custom covered loggia with fireplace invites residents and guests to linger near the pool. The interior finishes are one–of–a–kind with Roseton and Redondo tile floors, floating and box beamed ceilings, hand–troweled white stucco walls and a magical kitchen with distinctive cobaltblue Viking appliances. Specs: $2,400,000, 6,060 sq. ft., 5 BR/5.5 baths/4 car–garage, Lot size: .55 acres. List agent: Jason Glast, Phyllis Browning Co., (210) 386–1833.
Kyle Lindsey Custom Homes: A fusion of a Spanish Mission Villa meets Texas Hill Country, this estate is designed to be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors with many specialty features. Views of the charming courtyard provide a calming backdrop with soothing natural lighting and views of the greenery and outdoor fireplace/ entertainment area. Providing a perfect outdoor environment for gatherings and casual parties the courtyard is further enhanced by a wood burning fireplace and entertainment center. The luxurious master bath area utilizes travertine marble and copper with an oversized, hand hammered copper slipper tub framed by picture windows and wall mounted bronze faucets. Specs: $2,100,000, 5,691 sq. ft., 4 BR/4.5 baths/3 car–garage, Lot size:134 x 170. List agent: Robert Elder, Keller Williams Realty, (210) 643–3773.
Mike Hollaway Enterprises: Reminiscent of a European castle, Hollaway’s creation is at once distinctive yet classic. The fun and functional features include a car lift, car wash system, casita, four separate suites, chef ’s kitchen and many others. No need to brave the crowds and uncertain water levels on the Guadalupe: Mike’s included a lazy river in his beautiful pool. Specs: $2,250,000, 5,924 sq. ft., Cabana, 362 sq. ft. 4 BR/4 baths/2 half baths/3 car–garage, Lot size:170 x 150. List agent: Wayne Haensel, Mike Hollaway Enterprises,(210) 508–1359.
Silverleaf Custom Homes: This celebrity style home encircles a gorgeous pool/spa with a sexy swim up bar through a water wall perfect for entertaining in the highest fashion. A grilling station near a separate casita and bath are perfect for guests, home office or quarters. All living areas and bedrooms are on the entry level comprising over 6000 feet on one floor. Stamped concrete walkways and drives usher the buyer into a 4 car motor court and garage through a Porte cochere. Ultra high end sound systems inside and out make the home theatre and pool area rock! Specs: $2,600,000, Square footage, 7,083, 5 BR/5 baths/2 half–baths/4 car–garage, Lot size: .58 acres. List agent: Debra Janes, Kuper Sothebys, (210) 573–4040.
