Since the mid-20th century, architects with boundless imagination have taken on the challenge of turning utilitarian buildings into lavish private residences. Barns, warehouses, and even churches have been given a new lease on life as luxurious homes. But what about water towers, fortresses, or factories? These unconventional structures may seem like unlikely candidates for conversion, but with expert architectural insight and engineering know-how, they can be transformed into extraordinary contemporary dwellings. The rewards of such endeavors are plentiful, including enviable locations, original architectural details, ample space, and abundant natural light.
In this captivating Luxury Defined collection, we shine a spotlight on seven remarkable homes that have reimagined history and merged it with chic contemporary design, comfort, and intricate detail.
1. Clare Island Lighthouse on Clew Bay, Co, Mayo, Ireland
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Clare Island in County Mayo, Ireland, stands a converted 19th-century lighthouse offering privacy, seclusion, and some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the country. With a history spanning over two centuries, this nautical landmark has guided seafarers and now offers a one-of-a-kind living experience. The main lighthouse keeper’s residence and surrounding buildings have been carefully restored, preserving their original character while providing all the modern conveniences. To top it off, the property boasts its very own helipad, ensuring easy access to this coastal haven.
2. 17th-Century Mill in Arezzo, Italy
Nestled along the banks of the Arno River in Tuscany, Italy, a former 17th-century flour mill has been reborn as a luxurious country retreat. The magnificent five-story stone tower houses the original mill on the ground floor and offers four guest suites with picturesque views on the upper levels. The main residence spans an impressive 11,678 square feet, featuring 12 en suite bedrooms, multiple dining rooms, and a wine cellar complete with a tasting bar. A highlight of the property is its medieval grotto, transformed into a lavish wellness center with a chromotherapy spa, Turkish baths, and a mood shower. Outside, the private grounds invite you to indulge in alfresco dining, take a dip in the swimming pool, or stroll through lush gardens.
3. Converted Factory on the Bay of Villefranche, Alpes-Maritimes, France
In the heights of Villefranche-sur-Mer, France, a historic factory has undergone a brilliant architectural transformation, resulting in a contemporary masterpiece. The turn-of-the-century factory, perched above the Mediterranean Sea, now boasts 5,920 square feet of airy, ultra-modern interiors. The original machinery, metallic moldings, steel-frame windows, wood floors, and exposed ceilings have been meticulously restored, preserving the building’s unique character. The crown jewel of the home is a vast living/dining room that opens to a sleek stainless-steel kitchen designed by the renowned chef Alain Ducasse. With four en suite bedrooms, a separate two-bedroom guest house, a sea-view terrace with a Jacuzzi, and a pool with a heated lap pool and summer kitchen, this transformed factory offers a true taste of the French Riviera lifestyle.
4. The Vaxholm Water Tower in Stockholm, Sweden
On the island of Vaxholm in the Stockholm Archipelago, a converted water tower stands as a truly exceptional private family home. Built in 1923, this unique residence offers four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and an abundance of light-filled living spaces. The curved walls create a sense of grandeur, while also dividing the space into cozy bedrooms and multipurpose nooks. The property is surrounded by private parkland, and the old water tank which could be transformed into a swimming pool.
5. Secret Garden Retreat in Old Town, Chicago, Illinois
Tucked away in Chicago’s charming Old Town neighborhood, a hidden oasis awaits. Once a stable yard built at the turn of the 20th century, this unique property has been transformed into a luxurious private retreat. The main residence, originally a stable, has been converted into a stunning 3,100-square-foot home with three bedrooms and a captivating blend of historic charm and modern elegance. Vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls, and abundant natural light create an inviting atmosphere. However, the true gem of this property is the secret garden, a sanctuary designed by landscape architecture firm Hoerr Schaudt and featured in Better Homes and Gardens magazine. With a fire pit, dining terrace, and outdoor kitchen, the garden is a serene haven for relaxation and entertainment. In addition to the main residence, there is a three-story Victorian residence and a charming one-bedroom brick house, providing ample space for guests or extended family.
6. Reimagined Barn in West Hendred, Oxfordshire, England
Nestled in the picturesque North Wessex Downs in England’s Oxfordshire, this barn conversion offers a luxurious and spacious retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Situated within a conservation area in the village of West Hendred, the property features a former granary and three barns, all seamlessly blending traditional charm with contemporary comforts. The two-story main barn boasts a country kitchen, a reception room, and a sitting room with an inviting fireplace and garden access. A single-story studio barn and a converted granary provide additional space for a studio, office, or creative pursuits. The mature gardens, complete with hedges and fences for privacy, offer a peaceful retreat. Located just 15 miles south of Oxford and a short distance from Wantage, this barn conversion combines rural tranquility with convenient access to amenities and transportation.
7. Former Consulate in Tangier, Morocco
Once the Spanish consulate in Tangier, Riad Richa now stands as an opulent private palace overlooking the Bay of Tangier. This remarkable property spans over 16,000 square feet, boasting 51 rooms and exuding grandeur at every turn. Riad Richa showcases a fusion of Spanish and Moroccan influences, with intricate zellige-tiled floors, rich fabrics, and ornate light fixtures. The palace features 12 private suites, a two-story drawing room, a study, and a hammam for ultimate relaxation. The central courtyard, adorned with a reflecting pool, provides a serene oasis. Expansive sea-view terraces offer breathtaking vistas of the bay and city. Riad Richa is a true treasure trove, housing a collection of antiques and objets d’art, and immersing its residents in the captivating beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship and design.
In the world of architectural marvels, these converted homes stand as shining examples of creativity and ingenuity. From a historic lighthouse perched on rugged cliffs to a transformed water tower with panoramic views, these extraordinary dwellings prove that the ordinary can indeed become extraordinary. Each home showcases the perfect blend of preserving the past while embracing modern luxury, offering residents a truly unique living experience. So, the next time you stumble upon an unconventional structure, dare to dream big and envision the limitless possibilities of converting it into your own captivating sanctuary. Because when it comes to turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, the only limit is your imagination.
