The Life Aquatic | A River Runs Through It

Rivers have long served as pathways to the ocean; whether for commerce or travel, some of our most famous cities have developed on the shores of great rivers. From the banks of the Thames to the Hudson, our final installment of Life Aquatic introduces us to riverfront homes from around the world.

$22,000,000 AUD | Melbourne, Australia | Melbourne Sotheby’s International Realty

On the 86th floor of Melbourne’s nearly 300-meter skyscraper designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects, sits one of the highest penthouse residences in the southern hemisphere. The building’s gold crown represents the gold rush and is named after the 1854 Eureka Stockade. The Eureka Tower defines Melbourne’s glittering skyline. Occupying the entire floor, this home showcases breathtaking 360-degree vistas through magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows that draw the eye of the captive viewer across Melbourne to the Great Dividing Range, the Macedon Ranges, the Dandenongs and Port Phillip Bay – a truly tranquil setting. Iconic Melbourne features play out as if on an ethereal movie set – Flemington racecourse, Tullamarine airport, Flinders Street Station and the undulations of the Yarra River become part of your personal experience.

£1,050,000 GBP | Wallingford, England | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

A beautiful and historic ferryman’s cottage, the site of which is mentioned in Jerome K. Jerome’s Three Men in a Boat, is situated directly on the banks of the River Thames, adjacent to the Oxford University Rowing Club. This unique property, which sits on Edwardian brick arches, overlooks its own private riverside garden and pontoon. Until 1950 the house was occupied by the Wallingford ferryman, who transported horses, people and freight across the river at the point where the River Thames tow path changed sides. The raised outhouse was the ticket booth associated with the ferry.

5 695 000 $ CAD | Ontario, Canada | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Not just a residence, but a stunning work of art, this completely custom built homes on the Detroit River features exceptional craftsmanship throughout. Beautiful handcrafted finishes sourced from exotic locales abound, including century old carved wooden doors, terra cotta tiles, Cantera stone mantle and staircase, and Moroccan panels. A thoughtful blend of European, Mexican and North American design captivates the senses. Resort-like outdoor living amenities include a pool, whirlpool, riverfront sitting area with gas fire pit, dock, boat lift and rooftop verandah.

$2,995,000 USD | Sleepy Hollow, New York | Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty

An exquisitely renovated granite stone home on the Hudson, the four-bedroom 3.1-bathroom house is set on three private riverfront acres in the coveted Sleepy Hollow Manor enclave. A lavish $1.5 million renovation remodeled the original architectural style and preserved many original features. The finest modern amenities were added to meet today’s lifestyle needs. Sophisticated and inviting in a magical setting with unparalleled sunsets views, thie home is a short walk to train, beach and iconic lighthouse.

6.384.000 € EUR | Koblenz, Germany | Peters & Peters Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled amidst a fantastic landscape, Villa Rheinburg was once part of the Klausenberg fortification, which was built between 1827 and 1833. In the course of the centuries, the castle-like villa has been remodeled repeatedly and adapted to the requirements of the respective era. Today the castle-like residence has been completely renovated and there are plans for the creation of modern and luxurious living spaces. The unparalleled panoramic view of the Rhine River valley and the City of Koblenz has remained unchanged throughout the years.

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