To enjoy the most majestic landscapes on earth, you normally have to be willing to live rough for a few days. And the concept of living “off the grid” is certainly picturesque in theory, but cumbersome in practice.
But what if there was no need to compromise, and you could have your own sustainable, self-sufficient luxury accommodations situated near priceless natural treasures? Such properties do exist, and they have the best backyards on the planet. Have a look at three unparalleled off-grid luxury homes in the United States.
Catching Rays on the Mountains of Maui
Linda Jean Briske and Maeghan Pocock – Island Sotheby’s International Realty
Haleakalā is the massive shield volcano that makes up much of the island of Maui, and the name means “house of the sun”. Apt, since the slopes leading up to its summit — which are also a national park — offer what many consider to be the world’s most spectacular sunrises.
A breathtaking daybreak would be an everyday occurrence for the residents of this premier property, perched on 16 acres of private land at a 2,000-foot elevation. Affectionately known as the “art farm”, it spares no expense when it comes to the luxury lifestyle — including an infrared sauna to bask in after a day at the beach. Featuring a solar array consisting of 48 panels, a sophisticated catchment system for fresh water, and a propane-powered backup generator, the eco-friendly home was constructed to showcase the greatest gallery of all: the pristine environment and sublime ocean that surround it.
A Minimalist’s Dream in the Texan Desert
Kumara Wilcoxon – Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty
As the largest ecoregion of its kind in North America, the Chihuahuan Desert is a marvel. Although large swaths of it have been transformed by human activity, 800,000 acres of mind-boggling canyons and gullies have been preserved in their original state thanks to Big Bend National Park.
Not far from Big Bend is the peaceful city of Marfa, where the Chihuahuan Desert landscape captured the heart of the celebrated minimalist artist Donald Judd. It’s therefore fitting that this unique, sculptural residence has an aesthetic of harmonious simplicity and uninhibited openness, and curates the work of two acclaimed architects: the building that contains the chef’s kitchen and entertaining space was designed by Rael San Fratello, while the structure housing the primary suite, studio, and lounge was envisioned by DUST. Along with floor-to-ceiling windows offering ample natural lights, the property is fully powered by solar energy.
A Personal Retreat Nestled in Utah’s Pines
Thomas Wright and Kerry Oman – Summit Sotheby’s International Realty
The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is one of the most popular nature areas in the US. When you think about the recreation opportunities on offer, this isn’t a surprise — skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in winter, along with hiking, biking, swimming and boating in summer. And urban convenience is never far away, as all of it is bordered by some of Utah’s liveliest towns and cities.
At an elevation of 7,250 feet, this exceptional country-cabin-turned-luxe-estate functions as a private ski resort, spread across 49 acres of newly-landscaped forest that complements the area’s stunning peaks and dazzling natural lakes. With its own onsite solar array, a commercial-grade backup generator, six propane tanks, and nearly 300 kilowatt hours of stored battery backup, this home wants for nothing. It doesn’t even need water to be supplied, as its filtration system and 1,000-gallon storage facility are world-class, and well-water rights ensure the trees and grass never dry out.
When you feel the irresistible impulse to immerse yourself in nature, you shouldn’t need to prepare for a long journey. And as you strive to shrink your carbon footprint, you shouldn’t have to limit your dream lifestyle. These properties serve as inspiration to live independently, indulgently, and sustainably, and to find ways to take indoor-outdoor living to the next level.
Feeling a little more of a vacation-inspired theme? Check out these three Mediterranean inspired villas.
