In an era where the quest for meaning influences every life decision, the secondary residence is no longer merely a summer escape. It is becoming a true haven of peace, designed as an extension of oneself, where architectural creativity and the art of living intertwine with refinement. The luxury market confirms this: prestigious properties intended for secondary use attract clientele in search of aesthetics, comfort, and rejuvenation.
Prestigious secondary residences: a redefinition of luxury
Once viewed as merely a vacation spot, the high-end secondary residence is transforming into a life project. Luxury is no longer defined by square footage or the rarity of a property: it resides in bespoke design, connection to nature, the fluidity of spaces, and the ability of the place to offer a unique experience.
This trend is part of a broader movement. The post-pandemic context has reshuffled priorities: the need for private spaces, greenery, authenticity, and well-being has come to the forefront. As a result, wealthy buyers are increasingly seeking properties crafted with a bold architectural vision, yet always in harmony with their environment.
Architecture in service of well-being
Far from uniform standards, high-end secondary residences emphasize emotional architecture: the kind that evokes, calms, and inspires.
In the most sought-after regions like Provence or the Côte d'Azur, architects compete in ingenuity to enhance local materials (stone, wood, terracotta) while integrating contemporary innovations. Green roofs, expansive panoramic windows, intimate patios, semi-open spaces… Everything is designed to invite light, embrace natural views, and blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor.
This approach, which combines architectural creativity with craftsmanship, gives each property a unique signature.
The art of living in an exceptional setting
What sets a remarkable secondary residence apart is its ability to offer an unparalleled quality of life. Here, everything is designed to promote relaxation, sensory pleasure, and a connection to the essentials.
Modular interior spaces
The interiors of these high-end havens aim to be adaptable, reflecting modern lifestyles. Retractable bookshelves, intimate screening rooms, kitchens opening onto terraces, bedrooms with spa-like bathrooms… Ergonomics and aesthetics merge in complete fluidity.
An intimate connection to nature
Sea views or mountains, landscaped parks, centuries-old olive groves, Mediterranean gardens, natural pools: these locations offer a constant dialogue with nature, a true antidote to urban stress. Panoramic terraces, shaded pergolas, and outdoor lounges allow one to experience every moment in an exceptional setting.
Well-being as a priority
Infinity pools, private spas, meditation cabins, hammams, wine cellars, yoga rooms, organic gardens… Today's secondary residences are no longer just places to stay; they are sanctuaries of well-being, designed down to the last detail to meet the highest demands.
High-end remote work: the office with a view
The rise of remote work has also transformed usage. More and more clients are seeking a secondary residence that allows them to work in a privileged setting. Soundproof video conference rooms, private coworking spaces, high-speed satellite internet, and advanced home automation: these features integrate harmoniously into a refined decor.
Sustainable and heritage investments
Beyond comfort and escapism, high-end secondary residences also represent strategic assets. Prestigious real estate, well-located, retains stable value and often benefits from long-term capital appreciation.
Thanks to high-end rental management, it is even possible to partially offset the acquisition costs while maintaining control over the property's use. Some owners opt for discreet and personalized management of their residence during periods of absence.
More than a place, an experience: the new vision of the secondary residence
The secondary residence is no longer just a pied-à-terre. It becomes a refuge of meaning, beauty, and inspiration. Between architectural creativity and the art of living, these havens of peace are places where time seems suspended, where one reconnects with oneself, with nature, with the essentials.
At Michaël Zingraf Real Estate, we assist our clients in realizing these exceptional projects, selecting properties that blend the art of living with timelessness.