Mens sana in corpore sano. The Latin motto, “a healthy mind in a healthy body,” can sometimes feel like an ever-retreating goal, given the stresses of 21st-century living. Hectic schedules, demanding workloads, and the pressures of everyday life can take their toll on mind, body and soul. In this Luxury Defined showcase, we present five homes which integrate the amenities of gracious living with those of physical and spiritual well-being. Exorcise those daily demons in the lap pool and the fitness center; uncoil those tensions in the sauna, the spa, or the yoga room. Relax amid tranquil landscapes, bask in idyllic gardens groomed for serenity and meditation. Close your eyes and exhale: You’re home.
Bloom Ranch
Sun Valley, Idaho
.jpg?t=1515401395305&width=691&name=Sun%20Valley%20Wellness%20(2).jpg "This luxurious family compound on the Bigwood River has every amenity imaginable: the spa wing boasts a massage room, steam room, sauna, and spa pool; above is a pool deck, positioned to take in all-day sun and captivating vistas of the Idaho wilderness.")
This Modernist compound in Idaho’s Sun Valley was designed by award-winning architect Frederick Fisher as both a showcase for art and a center for family and social entertainment. Inspired by indigenous farm and mill buildings, Bloom Ranch is composed of multiple structures and unique spaces for both intimate and grand-scale gatherings. The seven en suite bedrooms are served by remarkable amenities: the spa wing comprises a gym, massage room, steam room, sauna, and spa pool, framed by salvaged old English columns. Above is a roof deck with a lap pool and outdoor spa. Heightening the sense of serenity and seclusion are 18 forested acres fronted by the Bigwood River and surrounded by a pristine, protected wilderness inhabited by elk, moose, and bald eagle.
Waterfront Manor on Long Island Sound
Westport, Connecticut
Gabled and turreted, this rambling Newport-style estate overlooks a romantic and tranquil cove with 176 feet of frontage on Long Island Sound. This beautiful coastal “cottage” is sited to capture stunning water views from nearly every room. Classic New England architecture, custom millwork, and refined finishes create a serene, restorative environment for the modern lifestyle.Encompassing more than 9,500 square feet, the formal living areas, though palatial, exude a casual elegance. The third floor houses a sauna and yoga room, plus a playroom and guest quarters. The grounds, enhanced with entertaining terraces and manicured lawns, lead down to the water’s edge and a private deepwater dock.
Contemporary Ski Chalet
Verbier, Switzerland
.jpg?t=1515401395305&width=693&name=Switzerland-Wellness-(1).jpg "The wellness facilities at this ultra-luxurious chalet in the Alpine resort of Verbier provide respite after a day on the slopes.")
This contemporary Alpine chalet in the exclusive winter resort of Verbier, Switzerland, was designed for those seeking a luxury retreat for skiing and après-ski. The home features four luxurious levels enveloped by walls of glass overlooking the Grand Combin massif. The deluxe accommodations comprise five en suite bedrooms and a two-bedroom staff apartment. The entire top floor is dedicated to the master suite, featuring a glass fireplace, spa bathroom, and private terrace. The main floor is composed of a vast open-plan living area with a central fireplace, which leads out to a covered terrace with a barbecue area and cedarwood hot tub. The lower-level recreation floor boasts a cinema, bar, wine cellar, ski-boot warming area and five-star facilities for health and wellbeing: a hammam, sauna, massage room, gym, and lap pool.
River Oaks Estate
Houston, Texas
.jpg?t=1515401395305&width=693&name=Texas-Wellness-(2).jpg "With its tennis court, golf course, and professional gym, this home in Houston is akin to a private country club.")
Situated in the most exclusive neighborhood in Houston, this Tudor-style estate offers more than 50,000 square feet of space for indoor-outdoor entertaining and recreation. The palatial three-story main house is appointed with soaring ceilings, elegant finishes, and hardwood floors. The formal dining room has a soaring ceiling with a custom Italian chandelier. It is served by a custom-designed chef’s kitchen with Viking appliances. There are five bedrooms and five bathrooms. The master suite opens to a balcony overlooking the grounds. The top floor houses a professionally equipped gym and sauna. The resort-style amenities continue outside with a pool, covered lounging area with wet bar, fully lit tennis court, and practice golf course.
Oceanfront Retreat
Laguna Beach, California
This luxurious oceanfront retreat enjoys a coveted location on Victoria Beach, in the prestigious gated community of Lagunita. Walls of glass frame dramatic ocean views from nearly every room of the stunning 6,465-square-foot home. The main level features a living area and large gourmet kitchen. The lower level houses the master suite and a spa-style retreat with gym, steam room, and sauna. Sliding glass doors lead to a spectacular oceanfront deck. Adjacent to the beach is an entertainment level with media room, billiard room, 1,000-bottle wine cellar, kitchenette, and large entertaining patio with spa. There are three additional guest bedrooms as well as a converted boathouse, ideal as a guest house or private studio. Nearby are the golf course and resort attractions of Lagunita Village.
