Breaking new ground and setting new standards

We all know that the Algarve and, in particular, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo are more and more appreciated and sought after each year.

There are many reasons for this including the excellent climate, the feeling of stability and safety, the welcoming nature of the Portuguese, the benign tax regime, the helpful exchange rate (for those with US dollars) and, increasingly, the recognition that the quality of construction and architectural design is world-class.

The photographs in this article show the latest house brought to the market by INNOVEST, one of the leading developers in the area.

Designed by Jutta Hoehn Architects, Lago 21 really is pushing new boundaries in terms of quality and specification. It promises to achieve the highest selling price ever achieved in Quinta do Lago for a villa on a single plot.

So what do potential buyers of such a “super villa” expect?

The location has to be first class, ideally with the orientation to the South or South West, giving wonderful sea and lake views. Having adaptable land (3,860m2 including adopted land) enables the house to have a real presence, huge kerb appeal and also a sense of privacy. It goes without saying that the specification and quality of finish have to be of the highest standard by the builder, Unique Build Lda.

Size does matter! A construction area: 1,345m2 including covered terraces (including the basement), allows all of the required accommodation to be provided.

Inside the house, there has to be a minimum of 7 bedroom suites including maids apartment and 10 bathrooms (this house has 8), with the Master Suite being the size of a two-bedroom London apartment, ideally having two bathrooms and two dressing rooms and a private office.

The reception space has to be extremely impressive, with double height ceilings, huge openable glass windows… of course, and with flowing design linking the inside and outside space.

Inside/outside living is integral to the design concept, with glamourous swimming pools, this villa has pools inside, outside and on the roof… and private terraces off the bedrooms, plus extensive pergolas and sunbathing areas in the gardens.

Expected in houses of this standard are features such as a private gym, a spa, a luxurious cinema, a games room, a walk-in wine cellar, and a multi-car garage featuring a car-turning platform, with all floors being accessible by a private elevator.

The leading real estate agencies in the area are now marketing Lago 21, with the asking Price on Application (PoA). Suffice it to say; it is expected to break the current records for a house of this type.

Jutta Hoehn Architects is currently working on an extraordinary five more projects in Quinta do Lago in various prime positions, some for the use of her private clients and some where the owners will market them when completed.

One thing is certain, the new record price will not remain unbroken for long!

Photo credit: Shaun Fisher