luxury houses for sale Romania (page 7)

Without a doubt, Predeal is one of the most attractive mountain resort from Romania, its history being usually compared with the ones of Sinaia. Frontier locality by 1918, and major railway route at the end of the XIXth century, Predeal was about to become in the interwar period, an important touristic hub, attracting along with Sinaia, the new social strata - sportsmen, lawyers, doctors, professional military. During this modernisation period, many of the villas were erected in the famous neighbourhood Cioplea that was becoming even from the 30’s a true touristic-sport quarter - the first installation of a trampoline (1933), the first tele-ski from the country (1934). The Gen. Cartianu Villa was built in 1937, four houses down the road from ”Căprioara” Villa, the famous holiday home of Marshal Ion Antonescu, the superior of General Cartianu. The residence has been planned with the character of a holiday house, its distinct appearance being enhanced by the used materials - the wood and the wooden crafted elements, river stones and the extraordinary roof.

The house at 9 Verde Street (today Gheorghe Manu street) was built between 1911 and 1923, initiated by Tațiana Niculescu-Dorobanțu. One of the four daughters of Ion C. Brătianu, Tațiana (1870-1940) married in 1900 Ilie I. Niculescu-Dorobanțu (1873-1943), liberal political figure and prefect of Ilfov. Through their properties will also feature the Darvari manor, close to Bucharest. The plans designed by architect Grigore Cerchez (Cerkez) specified „a building with 2, 3 and 4 levels, massive walls, covered with tiles”, occupying 668,29 square meters. In a letter from 9th of May 1910 addressed to her sister Măriuţa Pillat, then in Paris, Tațiana confessed: „I believe we will have a truly beautiful mansion, Louis XII style, with carved stone and exposed brique”. On 25 September 1913, Taţiana was in France, writing to Sabina Cantacuzino: „The castles on Loire I am not even mentioning, I am amazed by so much beauty and very proud to realize that, without possible comparation to these, my house is very beautiful. Unfortunately, the narrow street makes the palace look crammed.” To furnish the interior, Tațiana chose Romanian traditional art objects and pieces from Antique shops in Paris and Munich. From Spain she brought furniture and tapestries. She wanted everything to be perfect and told her close friends: „I will show you this room only when it is completely furnished.” The imposing building bears the allure of a Gothic cathedral, with exquisite constructive and decorative elements: the exposed brick façade, in several shades of red, the towers’ silhouettes, the entrance portal, the imposing windows, with carved stone elements in Neo-gothic fashion, the cornices, gargoyles, stained glass windows and pointed arches that mark the exterior and interior. In his will, Ilie I. Niculescu-Dorobanțu donated the building to the Ion C. Brătianu Establishment, provided that it became the museum „Ilie, Tațiana and Ion Niculescu-Dorobanțu”. Between 1948-1957, the house hosted the canteen of the employees of the Minister of Industry. In 1956, following the pressures of the Direction of Historic Monuments, that considered the building „one of the most valuable in the Capital from an architectural point of view”, it was classified as part of the heritage of the Ministry of Culture and Education, undergoing consolidation works. Starting 1958, it hosted the Technical school of choreography, with 300 students. Today, more than one century after its construction, the impressive Gothic Revival residence maintains its mysterious allure, fascinating the passers-by with its imposing dimensions and unique construction details, crafted by one of the most important Romanian architects. Sources: Simina Stan, „Reședința Ilie I. Niculescu-Dorobanțu, monument istoric”, în Revista Arhitectura, iulie 2015 Narcis Dorin Ion, ”Memoria unui oraș – București”, ed. Institutul Cultural Român, București, 2012

In the heart of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is among the most vibrant and dynamic cities of Romania – it is a prestigious academic center, a cultural landmark for the country's history and an important node in the European road network. Built in 2006, in a highly regarded neighborhood, our villa is distinguished by modern aspects of high living. The exclusive facilities, including a jacuzzi, a fitness room, a tanning bed and a sauna, position it as an exceptional lifestyle investment. Arranged on the ground floor+ first floor+attic structure, on a plot of land of 1866 sqm, the property has a footprint construction of 346 sqm, with a built area of 838 sqm and an usable area of 681 sqm. As for the planning of the villa, on the ground floor, we find the living room, the dining room, the kitchen, a windfang, a toilet, a pantry, the terrace, a laundry room, another room, a shower room, a jardinière, a compartment, a storage, and the hallway. Going upstairs, there are 4 rooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 closets, a dressing room, the hobby room, the hallway, a toilet and the lovely balcony. The last floor consists of 3 attics, 2 rooms, a bathroom and the hallway. Photo: Tudor Prisecaru

When you hear ”Saxon house” the first thing that comes to your mind might be Prince Charles and his property in Viscri. An important unit of the local heritage, the Saxon houses are much more than that. More than 200 villages and many cities in Transylvania bear the mark of the Germanic civilization. And the Saxon house in Codlea, built between 1905-1907, makes no exception. The high gates, which shield the property from any indiscretion, allow for an impressive house to meet the curious eyes with its large windows, wooden beams and poles in sight, with the air of a miniature fortress. With a usable area of 450 sqm, the property is completely restored and the current owner paid a special attention to the preservation of the original architectural details. The oak carpentry has been refurbished, but for a better thermal comfort, another row of laminated wood windows has been added. The wooden doors and door frames are also modern additions, high quality replicas of the original elements. Two rows of parallel beams pass, at a height of 3.5 meters, the ceiling of the house. The attic, an open space of 130 sqm, has its own bathroom and is protected by a recently rebuilt roof with double-glazed tiles. The garage with automated access and separate central heating on each level are just some discreet elements of modernity in a context that preserves the charm of a traditional Saxon dwelling. And the property benefits from a real bonus: in the same yard there is a completely separate house with an area of more than 200 sqm, disposed on two levels. Built in 1973, this home is fully modernized and equipped. The land on which the property is located is also impressive. Spread over an area of 1826 square meters, it is composed of two distinct parts: a pretty cobbled courtyard, confined by ornamental plants, and a terraced garden with fruit trees. The areas are separated by massive walls that enhance the appearance of the typical fortified Saxon properties. In addition, the location, a keyword on the real estate market, is a special one. The property is in the downtown of Codlea, 15 kilometers away from Brasov and only 5 kilometers from the future Ghimbav airport. From the yard of the Saxon House you can admire the Postăvaru massif, and the proximity of the DN1 national road makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate mobility.

The town of Şomcuta Mare is located in the south-western part of Maramureș County, connected to the European road E58, Baia Mare - Cluj Napoca, at a distance of 25 km from Baia Mare. The popular tradition says that the name of Șomcuta Mare springs from the cornel shrubs that were found in abundance in these places, that once gave the name of the forest near Văleni village – Corneasa. Regarding this forest, it is said that it stretched over the borders of Şomcuta Mare and that, in the middle of it, there used to be a fountain, around which the community developed. From the first history records, it is shown that Șomcuta Mare had a predominantly Romanian population. This is proven by all the evidence that has been preserved in this regard about the Chioar Domain – where Șomcuta Mare was a part of. One of the historical monuments in Șomcuta Mare, this imposing building was built by the Austro-Hungarian State, between 1880 and 1890, to function as the Chiorean Commercial Bank, the first bank in the area. Currently, the building is connected to all utilities and services: gas, electricity, water supply and drainage. A few years ago, more precisely in 2003, the building had its roof and windows replaced, thus carrying out an important renovation process. Arranged on the following floor system: lower ground + ground floor + first floor + attic, this building provides that investment that you have always been looking for: its positioning and layout represent potential for various developments. It can bring many further exciting opportunities, starting from the industrial production ones to commercial ones. The building can function efficiently as a hotel, restaurant, kindergarten, school or nursing home. It accommodates 37 rooms and 5 bathrooms, with a pragmatic planning. Photo: Florin Pepene

Lețcani commune, located less than 20 kilometers away from the charming city of Iași (north-eastern Romania) is a place steeped in history, which houses the archeological site of Cucuteni culture, the oldest confirmed European civilization, centuries-old churches and reservations with secular meadows. This is where we find the traditional style residence of an artist painter who took care of every detail of the construction - from the massive wooden beams that cross the ceiling to the two traditional fireplaces decorated with floral motifs. The interior space of the home, intimate and dotted with handcrafted objects caring the patina of time, is well compartmentalized, keeping the attic as a place open to inspiration. The eco-friendly materials used to decorate the house interior are in line with the overall care to keep alive the traditional way of living and to preserve the nature habitat. The windows open towards a large idyllic garden, with old walnuts shading a small pond, which resembles in beauty with the secular hayfields in Lețcani commune. This property can serve as residence for a family looking for tranquility and fresh air, without being too far from the city's facilities.

The mansion completed in 2019 has been built with contemporary finishes and following the principles of an ideal holiday home. With a view of 360 degrees over the Poiana Mărului plateau, the house has been planned with generous windows towards the mountains, the main attraction being the view towards the Northern-Eastern slopes of the Piatra Craiului Mountains. Being situated at approximately 20 minutes from Râșnov and Bran, the residence take advantage of the easy access to the medieval castles, becoming an excellent location to be integrated into the touristic circuit, as well

Far from the noise of Bucharest traffic, but at the same time close to civilization, with immediate access to the A3 Motorway, Henri Coanda Airport and Baneasa Shopping Center, there is this oasis of clean air, located on the shores of Lake Snagov. The Snagov area is considered a premium location for the north of Bucharest, with imposing villas, navigable lake, forest, sports clubs and restaurants, with various opportunities for leisure. The villa is located on Snagov Lake, facing the island with Vlad Țepeș Monastery and on the right side Snagov Palace. Built in 2006, on a plot of 3,000 sqm with 90 m opening to the lake, the villa with Mediterranean architectural style, is laid on three levels an consists of 10 rooms with generous areas, out of wich, there are 7 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, gym with sauna and bathroom, children's playground, storage spaces and dressings. On the ground floor it has a living room with dining area with a total area of ​​120sqm, with granite floor and fireplace, with glazed spaces of about 3.5 m high that offers a wonderful view over Snagov Lake. They are separated from the kitchen by a glass wall in which a huge aquarium is arranged. The aquarium is part of the welcoming design of the house and has a role of visual relaxation. The terrace on the ground floor, over 100sqm, covered with Italian stone, makes the transition from the ground floor to the courtyard. The courtyard has quality lawn and abundant vegetation with mature plants. The facilities are multiple and well chosen, starting with the water treatment plant, the drinking water system from 50m depth, electricity generator, intelligent surveillance system, alarm system monitored by a specialized company. Outside, the property has a swimming pool and jacuzzi with an area of ​​about 150 square meters, boat garage and pontoon for 6 other boats, double stone BBQ, a basketball court, up to 10 parking spaces in the yard, terraces and stage specially designed for private events for up to 150 people. The entire property has been designed to meet all the current requirements of a modern family, both in terms of space, facilities and relaxation, without the need for further investment. You will surely fall in love with the lush view, the tranquility of the area, the clean air, and last but not least, the modern facilities.

The year of construction isn’t precisely noted, most likely being somewhere between 1913-1914. Situated on a highland at 600 m altitude and integrated in the picturesque landscape, the Stirbey Palace was designed by architect Nicolae Ghika-Budești and built with Italian craftsmen. Architect Ghika-Budești was a promoter of old Romanian architecture, with a personal style, a synthesis between Wallachian and Moldavian architecture. Specific for his constructions are the use of face brick, enamelled ceramic, the insertion of neo-gothic frames at doors and windows, the tower of monasterial inspiration, the horseshoe bow, the saw teeth decoration and the geometric motifs. The Palace from Dărmănești, with a surface of 4500 sqm, is disposed on four levels – basement, ground floor and two other floors, with a semicircular terrace. The annexes occupy approximately 1500 sqm. Water basins were built near the palace, and the buildings had a water supply system that is still preserved, the oldest in Bacău County, where water is brought from the mountain from a distance of nearly 8 km. Following the early death of Prince George, who lost his life due to typhus during the First World War, Elisabeta will spend most of her time at Dărmănești with her two daughters, Sanda and Marina. „She used to arrive here in May, with her daughters, governesses, chauffeurs and maids; she had an entire team brought from abroad, which included butlers and chefs as well. Until September she received here visits from relatives and friends.” The Royal visitors at The Dărmănești Palace include Queen Elisabeth of Romania and Queen Marie of Romania, photographed in national costumes in the garden and inside the residence. Queen Marie invokes Elisabeta Știrbey in her notes: Elisabeta is a beautiful and mild woman, born Băleanu. She has good taste, she likes beautiful things and is a real country life loving woman. Queen Marie records some other details about the residence, with the occasion of her August 1926 visit: Dărmănești is everything I expected it to be. A house with a beautiful position and a splendid garden, designed with perfect taste and concept. It has something that I have never seen before which is fantastic, enormous flower beds, almost like fields of garden mistletoe, hundreds and hundreds of flowers in huge groups, absolutely gorgeous and also its home is full of flowers arranged in large vases, pots and cans. Nothing can be more spectacular [...] The house is also beautiful and well designed.” The rehabilitation and restoration started in 2014 and the process took three years and sought to restore and preserve as many original items as possible. The solid wood stairway was kept – every square inch was cleaned and restored. The original solid oak carpentry was saved as well. To meet the current comfort requirements, the glass was replaced with a double-glazed window, but the original oak wood frame was preserved. The total of over 1000 windows have been refurbished one by one. It was possible to preserve and restore the Italian-style steel shutters (unique elements in the country), which had the role of protection in case of a siege. These were cleaned and painted. The façade is the original one as well – the bricks were refurbished to preserve the particular style of architect Nicolae Ghika-Budești. The space was furnished with French and Florentine furniture, the paintings exhibited in the palace include valuable works of art from the 17th century, signed by Italian, Flemish and Romanian artists. Due to this great effort, we can today savour a unique piece of jewellery of the Romanian built heritage, ready to start a new journey as a 40 rooms hotel with events, cuisine and spa facilities or as a most exquisite private retreat.

Ideally situated in the exclusivist Northern area of Bucharest, this 3-floor villa is built on the Lake Tei shore. It benefits from both the vicinity of the Pipera office area and the quietness of an intimate area, with only a few neighbouring constructions. Built in 2018, it stands out by its original architecture, a mix of modern materials: cement, glass, iron, that grant it expressivity and set it apart from the villas around. During the hot season, the generous 200 sqm garden becomes a comforting shaded oasis, with the nearby lake’s breeze blowing gently. The villa offers a splendid view towards Lake Tei, from the living room, terrace and garden. The ample surface of 1350 sqm accommodates 12 rooms and 6 bathrooms. The natural light floods the neo-Baroque interior, with decorative stucco mouldings, golden details, columns, sculptures, oversized Italian mosaic panels and precious curtains. The day area is situated at the ground floor, with a wide living room with chimney, dining area and kitchen. The spaces are marked by recessed lighting and chandeliers, carefully coordinated to create a welcoming atmosphere during the night. The imposing staircase, decorated with mosaic, leads to the upper floors, where the bedrooms and lounge area are. The bathrooms preserve the neo-Baroque design, with their elegant details. The superior floor has a skylight, offering an energising light. Each space of this imposing villa was conceived in detail and personalized to express the sophisticated elegance of its royal style, maintaining however the warm and inviting atmosphere of a home.

Located in Salicea, just 15 minutes away from Cluj-Napoca, this property pays tribute to the Transylvanian traditional way of living. The thatched roof, the wooden beams that are over a hundred years old, but especially the care and dilligence with which the whole complex was built, make this traditional house a perfect home for city dwellers in search of fresh air and relaxation. The property has six rooms, spread over an area of 180 square meters, and a generous yard of 1,470 square meters, just perfect for family reunions.

Sinaia is the Romanian city with the largest number of buildings classified as historical monuments per inhabitant. Not incidentally, the way the city looks today is the result of the work and signature of some of the most important Romanian architects: Ion Mincu, Toma Socolescu, Paul Smărăndescu, Duiliu Marcu or Grigore Cerchez, to name just a few of them. The Anastasie Simu House, or the Retezat Villa, as it is now known, is designed and built in the German Renaissance style of the early twentieth century by Czech architect Karel Liman. He was a good friend of King Carol I, for whom he designed the Pelișor Castle and the Honor Lobby of the Peleș Castle, all of them having in common elements specific for this artistic style. Chief Architect of the Royal House of Romania between 1894-1929, Karel Liman was born in the Czech Republic in 1855, in a family of carpenters. Inheriting the passion for woodworking from his father and grandfather, Liman follows the courses of the Fine Arts Faculty in Prague and then the Bauakademie in Munich. Established in Vienna around 1880, Liman gains experience through the collaboration with the Fellner&Hellmer Architecture Workshop in the capital of Habsburgs. He contributed to the projection plans of the Albert Rothschild Palace in Vienna, conducted under the guidance of architect Gabriel-Hippolyte Destailleur and of the Hunting House of Prince Christian de Hohenlohe-Ohringen in Javorina, Slovakia. Recommended by Destailleur to André Lecomte du Noüy, a French architect also established in Romania, Liman is employed by the Architecture Service of the Ministry of Cults and Public Instruction at the Commission for Historical Monuments in Romania, where he participated at the restoration of churches „Saint Nicholas” and „The Three Hierarchs” in Iași and the Episcopal Church in Curtea de Argeș. In the service of the Royal House, besides Pelişor Castle and the complex project for the rearrangement of Peleş, Liman also signs other projects such as the „Princess's Nest” (1894), the extension of the Cotroceni Palace, the house of Prince Carol in Bucharest, King Ferdinand’s cottage in Lăpuşna, the rearrangement of the Bran Castle and several other buildings in Sinaia: The Economat Villa, The Guard House, The Royal Stables or The Retezat Villa. After the architect's death, the house was bought by academician Anastasie Simu (1854-1935), a P.h.D in Political and Administrative Sciences, a great art lover and passionate collector, the first Romanian to build a private museum in Bucharest in 1910. In 1927, Simu donated to the Romanian state over 1.200 works: paintings, graphics, sculptures and decorative arts gathered over the years. A part of the collection is exhibited today at the National Art Museum of Romania, and another at The Simu Collection at Bucharest Pinacoteca. The architecture of the house, typical for the German Renaissance, impresses both on the outside and on the inside. The façade is predominantly of stone, dotted with corner bossages and vividly colored ceramic decorations. The interior is exuberant, highlighting the richness of wooden decorations, the coffered painted ceilings, and especially the beautiful stained glass, perfectly preserved to this day. The location in Sinaia is an ideal one, being close enough to the city centre so that it can be reached by a few minutes’ walk, but at the same time, isolated enough to offer privacy and detachment for a mountain holiday. The villa is renovated and functional, currently offering accommodation in 8 rooms, 2 apartments and 1 studio, rated with 8.8/10 on one of the most important online booking platforms. The future destination remains commercial, a hotel/boarding house or it can become a permanent personal residence or a holiday one with a lot of charm and full of history.