Clean Living | 6 Eco-Conscious Waterfront Homes

Strong design is a delicate balance of form and function. Homes need to reflect more than just our aesthetic principles—they need to suit our values as well. As global concern for climate change grows, so too do the number of “green” homes on the market. The challenge becomes finding an environmentally-conscious home where the luxury experience is not lost. Here are six eco-homes that manage to be both mindful and magnificent.

History Meets Future on Ionian Islands, Greece

Savvas Savvaidis, Greece Sotheby’s International Realty

Having played host to several mythic odysseys, the town of Corfu sets the stage for this Emerald Bay estate. Celebrating traditional Grecian architecture while incorporating eco-friendly amenities, this home makes the case for considered design and a minimized environmental footprint. Jet out on the Ionian Sea from your private mooring, or cool off with a dip in the infinity pool perfectly tempered by solar panels. It only takes one glance at this tranquil sea to realize this address is the crowning jewel of the Ionian coastline.

Thoughtful Living in Oeiras, Lisbon

Paula Penim, Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty

Energy from the Oeiras sun is used to power this arty oceanfront villa. Complete with mid-century modern wood paneling throughout the home, its thoughtful detailing is continued beyond its interiors—solar panels provide a clean source of energy to assist in powering this home’s four bedrooms and seven bathrooms, in addition to providing heat for both outdoor and indoor pools. Spend your days reclining by the pool overlooking the Atlantic, or take your journey further inland to explore the region’s many blue and green spaces, including the sandy beaches of Paço de Arcos and Praia da Torre.

Finding Zen in Limestone Bay, Anguilla

Scott Hauser, Anguilla Properties Sotheby’s International Realty

Find paradise at this airy Anguillan abode that pairs palace-like grandeur with modern eco-sensibilities. Regal columns and carved balustrades overlooking the Caribbean Sea create a scene fit for the silver screen, while overhead solar panels pull in energy from the Anguillan rays to power a heated pool in the home’s zen garden. Views are not lost on the home’s well-appointed four bedrooms and spacious living area, each producing vivid-hued views of the technicolor waters—higher definition than any television.

Lakeside Living in Six Mile, South Carolina

Justin Winter, Justin Winter Sotheby’s International Realty

Time-honored materials and modern technologies are what make this South Carolina lake house eco-conscious. Situated on Lake Keowee, this property is dressed in natural materials including limestone and slate, while repurposed accents like a wrought iron door salvaged from Argentina add to the home’s sustainability. The home’s eco-friendly architectural features are further underscored by its use of geothermal, solar thermal, and solar photovoltaic technologies to reduce its energy demand, as well as a rainwater system for landscape irrigation.

Cerulean Caribbean Vistas in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Nina Siegenthaler & Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty

No matter which window you gaze out of, the views from this Turks and Caicos villa are nothing short of spectacular. Tucked into a hillside in Turtle Tail, enjoy Caribbean living at its fullest surrounded by vibrant-hued turquoise waters that appear simply surreal. Solar panels heat and pump a private lagoon pool mimicking the variants of blue from the ocean, while a backup generator and 500 gallon propane tank are on site for all eventualities. Ideal for entertaining, this serene home ensures all of your guests can retreat to their private quarters complete with their very own ocean vista.

River Views in New South Wales, Australia

Rick Nolasco & Daphne Sauvage, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty

Two properties comprise this New South Wales waterfront address. With its covetable location on the Hawkesbury River, Sunny Corner boasts 180-degree views of idyllic waterfront and stunning hillside. Designed to facilitate an active life on the water, this Australian escape ensures you can venture out in your own pontoon, or stay closer to shore and enjoy kayaking, water skiing, and fishing from your secluded retreat. Shining when it comes to sustainability, this home utilizes solar panels to reduce environmental impact and heat all water on site.

When it comes to helping the planet, small choices can make a big difference. Whether you’re considering alternative energies or recycling your rainwater, choosing a home with eco features can make the work of living lightly that much easier.

Search these eco listings for your next conscious homebase, and see how luxury and an eco lifestyle can go hand in hand.