A View From the Ridge

Written By: Wiley Sloan | Issue: 2016/05 - May

Revel in the views from the top of Ravenel Ridge, just four-tenths of a mile from Highlands’ Main Street.  Peruse the panoramic views from Whiteside Mountain to Black Rock through Horse Cove to the Fodderstacks. 

Buena Vista, designed in the Beaux Arts style popular in grand mansions at the turn of the 20th century, incorporates stone and bark along with arches and balconies.  Designed  by local architect Jeffrey Owens and built by Craig and Craig in 2000, the home beckons to those with  impeccable taste and an eye for the exquisite. 

Meander to the house to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.  Mature gardens with impressive landscaping clad the home in nature’s splendor.  

The circular drive winds gently through the trees to deliver you to the Motor Court, which precedes the double car garage and formal gardens.  Poplar bark siding melds with native stone, balustrades, and arches reminiscent of days of yore, complemented by wrought iron.  Stone patios beckon you to commune with nature. 

Glide through the front door to enter the soaring Vestibule and proceed into the barrel-vaulted Great Room with its hand-painted ceiling.  Enjoy a lively discussion with friends in front of the Grand Fireplace or gather around the large banquet table for a delectable meal.  Throw open the floor-to-ceiling French doors to reach the balconies that overlook the majestic vistas below.  Whether you are entertaining two or 50, this room is welcoming and comfortable.  

The eat-in kitchen with its top-of-the line appliances and custom cabinetry is just a step away from the butler’s pantry and service entrance.  Enjoy your morning coffee in the adjoining Sunroom/Den, which opens to the stone terrace and gardens.  The Master Suite which includes a fireplace, a sitting room and incredible bath plus an adjoining office/study with fireplace completes this main level.

Let your guests ascend the stairs to the Upper Level   to choose from three perfectly-appointed Guest Suites (one with its own Sitting Room).  Turn the upstairs hall into your family portrait gallery or display your art collection.  Stop at the balcony overlooking the sun-filled Vestibule for an impeccable view.  An elevator assists those who struggle with stairs.  Guests seeking a little more privacy will vie for the Guest Quarters/Artist’s Studio.  With its own Kitchenette and a spectacular view of the gardens, they will feel that they have escaped  to paradise.          

Everywhere you look in this home you’ll see award-winning attention to detail.  Natural light fills each room through large windows and French doors.  For those who are looking for a cut above, this home is definitely a must-see. 

Years of collecting and a fine eye for the extraordinary brings you furnishings you would search years for.  These treasures are available for purchase should you make this home your family’s abode.  Contact Doug Helms at Landmark Realty at (828) 226-2999 or [email protected].