luxury houses for sale United States (page 456)

Nestled in the heart of charming Georgetown, TX, 1704 Leander St. stands as a distinguished residence of impeccable design, seamlessly blending contemporary luxury with timeless elegance. Ideally located just moments from downtown, residents enjoy convenient access to a wealth of amenities. Explore the charming local shops, cafes, and restaurants lining the historic streets, all within easy walking distance. This residence boasts an expansive open floor plan flooded with natural light, creating an inviting ambiance perfect for both entertaining and relaxation. Noteworthy features include gleaming concrete floors, soaring high-vaulted wood ceilings, and a chef's kitchen equipped with top-tier appliances, enhancing daily living to extraordinary heights. Outside, discover a tranquil backyard oasis with meticulously landscaped gardens and a serene patio space, ideal for enjoying balmy Texas evenings with loved ones. Embrace the innovative Cistern feature, designed to harvest rainwater for sustainable irrigation, embodying a commitment to both efficiency and environmental stewardship. Experience the essence of Georgetown living in a residence where modern comforts harmonize effortlessly with the enduring charm of downtown.

Welcome to this nearly new, custom-built residence in the coveted Reddenwood community within the Cape Henlopen School District. Conveniently located near local hospitals, shopping, and the beautiful Delaware beaches, this home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and accessibility.Inside, the thoughtfully designed floor plan offers a desirable separation of spaces, with the first-floor primary suite providing convenience and privacy, perfect for a peaceful retreat. The main living areas with built-in speakers, custom light fixtures, fireplace and additional bump-outs that enhance the sense of space and luxury. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream with upgraded gray shaker cabinets and appliances, ample counter space, a large island with built-in beverage cooler, and an open layout that flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas.Upstairs, you'll find two generously sized secondary bedrooms and a flexible loft space, perfect for a home office, playroom, or cozy reading nook. This setup ensures that guests or family members have their own private space away from the primary suite. Just off the loft is unfinished space, framed out with electric and HVAC venting, which affords easy expansion in the future.The full basement, already framed and equipped with plumbing, electric, and HVAC, offers tremendous potential for additional living space, including a future bathroom, egress window - ready to be customized to suit your needs. If there weren't enough storage areas, the large three car garage features an epoxy floor, several storage arrangements and drop zones.Situated on over half an acre, the property backs to a serene wooded lot, providing a private and tranquil setting. The exterior is designed for exceptional outdoor living, featuring a screened-in porch, an oversized deck with built-in speakers, and a custom paver patio ideal for grilling and entertaining.With room for growth and plenty of upgrades throughout, this home offers a rare opportunity to live in luxury and comfort, surrounded by nature, within the highly sought-after Reddenwood community.

This exquisite hill country oasis offers the perfect blend of elegance and natural beauty! Situated on 5 acres close to both Wimberley and San Marcos this single-story residence boasts 2,640 SF + a 600 SF guest house with 2 beds/1 bath + a 1200 SF workshop. **$97k worth of updates in August 2024, including metal roofs on the main house, guest house, well house and tool shed - see agent for more details. The 2/1 guest house features beautiful wood floors, smart features like pocket doors, and its own private deck. There is also a 1,200 SF workshop offering versatility and additional space for hobbies. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail by a lifelong custom homebuilder, the residence features high-end millwork, including 8 dentil crown molding, custom cabinetry, built-in bookcases, and custom window and door trim throughout. These elements create a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic throughout the home. The grand entryway, with double doors and barrel vault ceiling, sets the tone for the rest of the home. High ceilings and 8 ft doors add to the sense of spaciousness. The living room, anchored by a cozy brick fireplace, provides a warm and inviting space for relaxation and entertainment. Thoughtfully designed, the main home comprises 3 well-appointed bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, offering ample space for family and guests. The primary suite is a tranquil retreat, featuring large windows that frame the stunning outdoor scenery. Two dining areas cater to both casual and formal occasions. The kitchen includes a walk-in storage/pantry, while the formal dining room is complemented by an adjacent sitting room, perfect for hosting dinner parties. An additional storage room with built-in shelving is large enough to be an office or craft room. Embrace the classic hill country lifestyle with a covered front porch, ideal for watching the local deer graze at sunset. The back porch, with its extended patio made of durable Trex decking, is a serene spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. A long, curved concrete driveway enhances the home's privacy and curb appeal. It’s a beautiful drive through the 350+ hardwood trees and wildflowers to the main house. Equipped with a well, septic system, propane tank and tankless hot water heater, the property benefits from a light HOA and a low tax rate of 1.61%, making it a smart and sustainable choice. Conveniently located, this property provides easy access to the vibrant cities of Austin and San Antonio, ensuring the best of both worlds - serene country living with city amenities within reach. This San Marcos gem is more than just a house; it's a lifestyle. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a luxurious family home, this property promises to deliver an unparalleled living experience in the stunning Texas Hill Country.

A rare opportunity to own a furnished, end-unit townhome in The Peninsula at this price point! This furnished and beautifully upgraded 2022 coastal townhome is in the charming 18th on the Bay neighborhood. This two-story home provides single-level living with everything you need on the first floor, including an open kitchen, dining room, great room, and the primary bedroom with ensuite bath. And a first-floor full laundry room with a washer and dryer. There is interior access to an oversized two-car garage with an EV Charging Station. The second level features a spacious loft overlooking the great room and a large utility room with storage. On this level are two guest bedrooms and a full bath. An additional second-floor owner's suite with a private full bathroom provides even more livable space. Enjoy relaxing on the new paver patio courtyard with a sitting wall and upgraded landscaping. Luxury modern plank flooring unifies the main living space. Enjoy an upgraded chef's kitchen with a suite of Frigidaire Gallery stainless steel appliances: a five-burner gas cooktop, range hood, double wall ovens, and a built-in microwave.Further elevated by gorgeous granite countertops, Dove Gray, soft close cabinetry, a glass tile backsplash, and a granite island/breakfast bar with a stainless steel sink. A graciously sized living room has a wall of glass sliding doors and a high vaulted ceiling, allowing natural light to fill the space. Relax and unwind in the main level primary bedroom featuring a recessed ceiling, double crown molding, ceiling fan, and recessed lights. The primary bedroom has a spa-like custom bath, a dual sink vanity with granite counters, a stall shower with a frameless door and bench seating, and two walk-in closets‹”window treatments, five ceiling fans, and recessed lights throughout. The Peninsula is home to a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. The fees include grass cutting and all landscape maintenance, snow removal, trash removal, Verizon Fios high-speed internet, HD cable, 24-hour security with gated entrance, the nature center, bay beach, ponds, fountains, and trails. The Peninsula community is 800 acres on the Indian River Bay and offers world-class amenities. The clubhouse features a large restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining, a billiard room, a wine room, golf lounges, a pro shop, putting green, a driving range, bocce courts, and the premier Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. The adjacent Lakeside village features a fitness center, game room, full spa, cardio room, one indoor, and four outdoor pools, including an adult-only heated pool, a kiddie pool, an outdoor sandy beach wave pool, and the new multipurpose pool, hot tubs, miniature golf course, poolside restaurant, tennis, pickle-ball, and two dog parks. All this, plus a private sandy bay beach. The Peninsula is 13 miles from historic Lewes and Rehoboth Beach boardwalk. Delaware boasts low property taxes and no sales tax.

Seize the opportunity to own a stunning property just under 3.5 acres, located less than a mile from Main Street. Situated in the ETJ with no restrictions, this property offers endless possibilities for development or personal use. Nestled on a beautiful, quiet street, the property is lush and shaded by large, mature Post Oaks, providing a serene and picturesque setting. The existing house is a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home that's full of potential, just waiting for your vision to bring it to life. Whether you're looking for an excellent investment opportunity or the perfect spot to build your Hill Country dream home, this property is a rare find. With its prime location and natural beauty, the possibilities are truly endless. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!

Nestled in the Heart of the Scenic Hill Country, this stunning wildlife exempt property offers unparalleled living experience with breathtaking panoramic views with rolling hills from almost every room! The property seamlessly blends modern luxury with rustic charm, featuring spacious living spaces and massive windows that capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The kitchen is equipped with large woodblock island, granite counters, built in refrigerator, farmhouse sink, tile backsplash, abundance of custom cabinets. The living room features a rock fireplace (the rock was collected on the property) and views galore, master bedroom has a sitting area/office alcove with more impressive views, expansive master bath with stall shower, luxurious tub overlooking the hills with spa-like feel. Additional living space off of kitchen with second wood burning fireplace. Massive deck, covered patio, pond with waterfall. The 12.7 acres are perimeter fenced, with approximately 1.5 acres around home high-fenced to keep deer out. Large producing chicken coop!

This stunning well maintained home is gated, has 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms with 4,263 sq ft of living space on a 18,295 sq ft corner lot. Step inside this freshly painted home to new flooring, window shutters and a gourmet kitchen featuring LG and Frigidaire appliances. The home also includes a separate 500 sq ft casita, perfect for guests, complete with a 3/4 bathroom and a kitchenette area. Outdoors, you'll find a beautifully landscaped oasis with mountain views. Enjoy your large heated pool and spa with new equipment installed in 2020, an outdoor kitchen perfect for entertaining, and a bocce ball court for fun and games. The expansive upstairs balcony and enclosed sunroom offer additional spaces to relax and take in the serene surroundings. With $80,000 worth of solar panels fully paid and included in the sale, ensuring energy efficiency. A 3 car garage, paved RV gated parking with full hookups, complete the Luxury Lifestyle living to the fullest with ample space for all your toys.

In search of a move-in ready, single-story home in North Central San Antonio? 6131 Akin Place is now available in the gated section of Wortham Oaks, near Bulverde & Evans Rd with close proximity to Hwy 281 & Loop 1604. Built in 2019, this home has been impeccably cared for by the original owner, complete with a new roof installed in 2024. The open-concept floorplan offers a natural flow throughout all living areas, offering a modern and comfortable experience. Vinyl flooring in all main areas of the home is both desirable and low maintenance. The front entry has no steps into the home (also no steps through garage or back yard entry) and opens to a multi-purpose front room that could easily be used for entertaining / formal dining, home office, sitting area, second living space, crafting, etc. The open kitchen connects the front room and a second, central family room with an adjoining breakfast area. No space is wasted! Features such as Gas cooking, granite counter tops and updated appliances will delight the home chef. Two secondary bedrooms are located off of the living rooms, offering a private hallway, full bath, storage closets and garage access. The primary suite with full bath offers a super-sized shower, walk-in closet and double vanity. Level backyard with a covered back patio is ready for your outdoor vision! This property has been upgraded with a smart doorbell / lock, smart thermostat and a tankless water heater. Looking for close schools? Wortham Oaks Elementary School is located within the subdivision AND a brand new middle school is currently under construction, located at the front entrance area! Residents enjoy community swimming pools, sports court access, park / playground area. Nearby dining, pharmacy and grocery in this desirable area! Schedule a private tour today!

SOLD BEFORE PRINT. Experience luxury resort-style lakefront living at Cirrus in the exclusive Lakeshore East neighborhood with its premier amenities, prime location and private community. Set among Lakeshore East's serene green spaces where the Chicago River meets Lake Michigan, Cirrus offers its residents easy access to the lakefront running and biking path, DuSable Harbor and adjacent neighborhood parks, grocery, restaurants and cafes. Luxury living is made easy with over 48,000 SF of amenities. Entertain on our beautiful 41st floor indoor/outdoor amenity space including a wine lounge, chef's table, catering kitchen, outdoor terrace featuring lawn area, fire pit and grilling stations for al fresco dining - all overlooking the stunning lakefront and skyline. Wellness-minded residents at Cirrus enjoy the fully equipped fitness center including strength studio, motion studio for spinning and yoga with complimentary daily fitness classes, massage suite, steam room, indoor and outdoor pools and hydrotherapy pool. Convenient co-working spaces, salon, kid's club and indoor/outdoor dog runs make daily life easy. The unique lounge spaces, sound-proof jam room, movie screening room, conservatory, pool cabanas, sports simulator and more make life at Cirrus extraordinary. 24-hour door staff and friendly management are committed to making Cirrus a world-class community. Unit 906 features floor to ceiling windows, wide plank hardwood flooring throughout, custom Italian Snaidero cabinetry, quartz counters, luxury Gaggenau appliances, Dornbracht fixtures and spa-like baths. Indoor parking available.

If you are considering a purposeful next chapter involving land stewardship, this heirloom farmstead is an exquisite gem with much to offer. With mountain, valley, and pastoral views the setting for this meticulously renovated 1820s farmhouse, with a 3 bedroom guest cottage, and a cluster of well maintained barns is, in a word, spectacular. A working farm of this caliber and beauty is a rare find indeed. During the current owner's tenure the farmland was groomed to be 100% organic and is protected by an agricultural easement through the assistance of the Columbia County Land Conservancy. Currently the farmland is leased to a local farmer who manages the fields and pastures with expertise. A few of the highlights include a solar array which provides 50% of the electricity, a pond, 3 wells, income from renting the guest cottage, and well maintained barns which could serve as event or hobby spaces. The gracious farmhouse, redesigned by Barlis-Wedlick, an award winning architectural firm, features several spacious living spaces, a to-die-for'' screened porch, ancient old wood floor boards, and two flex rooms for work or play. The property is made up of three separate tax lots with an option to build a second farmstead. An additional 100 acres is also available. Come explore.

Imagine sitting on the outdoor covered patio enjoying the warmth of a fireplace and looking at majestic Mt. Timpanogus, Soldier Hollow, and Deer Creek Reservoir. It is a beautiful setting in this recently remodeled home. A large barn was added for toys, storage, or for equipment, or a place for hay and animals. The property is beautifully landscaped and has a wonderful garden area. The views are further enhanced on the upstairs level from the bedrooms or from the upstairs veranda. The basement is also finished with a second kitchen, family room, and bedrooms. You are minutes from water sports on Deer Creek Reservoir, Blue Ribbon Fishing on the Provo River, or golf at Soldier Hollow. Come and enjoy the privacy of this home,with close proximity to the wonderful amenities of Midway.

Discover your dream home on a beautiful corner lot featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a pristine three-car garage with an oversized driveway. This stunning property offers everything you need for comfortable and stylish living. Key Features: New Upgrades: Enjoy peace of mind with a brand-new roof, freshly painted inside and out, new floors, and new carpet throughout the home. Spacious Layout: The second floor boasts a versatile bonus room and loft area, perfect for a home office, playroom, or additional living space. The bonus room can also be turned into a fourth bedroom. You'll also find all 3 bedrooms and a convenient laundry room on this level. Gourmet Kitchen: Ideal for cooking and entertaining, the kitchen features Corian countertops, a breakfast bar, and a large walk-in pantry. Open Floor Plan: The expansive layout creates a welcoming atmosphere, with sliding glass doors that lead to a screened porch—perfect for family barbecues and outdoor relaxation. Luxurious Primary Suite: The primary bedroom includes an oversized walk-in closet, perfect for fashion enthusiasts and ample storage. With 3,261 sq. ft. of living space, everyone in the family can enjoy their own private areas while still feeling connected in the home's wide-open spaces. This is a perfect setting for creating lasting family memories. Prime Location: Close to I-75 and US 41 for easy commuting. Nearby attractions include Fisherman's Village, Ponce de Leon Park, shopping centers, restaurants, and a boat launch to the Peace River. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity. Schedule your private showing today. Call now to make this dream home yours!

This is a stunning home in Alpine priced well below appraised value, making it one of the best deals currently on the market. It is on a great lot with huge views of the mountains and plenty of privacy. With over 11,000 square feet there is space for everyone. The home was thoughtfully designed for the needs of a growing family with rooms to gather or play on every level. The kitchen functions as the heart of the home boasting a large island with bar seating, granite countertops, two dishwashers, a gas range with six burners and a griddle, double ovens, and a large pantry. This property is ideal for entertaining with multiple dining areas and easy access to the backyard patio. The home has seven bedrooms including a main-level junior master suite and an even larger primary suite on the second level that has stunning views from a private balcony. If you work from home, the office with coffered ceilings and built-in shelving will be ideal. The living room and large family room both have vaulted ceilings and feature windows that perfectly frame the mountain views. Everyone will love the indoor sports court. It is a regulation-sized racquetball court that can also be used for volleyball and basketball (it comes with an adjustable basketball hoop). The basement features a theater room, an exercise room, a large walkout basement family room/game room, a huge oversized storage room, and a fully equipped guest apartment with a separate outside entrance. There is plenty of space for all of your vehicles in the oversized five-car garage. Plus, there is additional RV/boat parking along the north side of the house for your toys and trailers. On those hot summer afternoons, you will love the east-facing backyard. The lot is nearly an acre in size and there are not any backyard neighbors looking at you. It is extremely private and beautifully landscaped with lots of grass and mature trees, and there is more than enough room to add a swimming pool.

Nestled on a private lane along a tranquil creek, this expansive rustic log cabin epitomizes serenity and timeless charm on an idyllic 2 acre lot with live water. Situated in one of the valley’s premier suburbs, you’ll relish the perfect blend of secluded luxury and urban convenience. This captivating cabin showcases an open floor plan with soaring ceilings and majestic exposed beams, inviting you to immerse yourself in its natural warmth and rustic elegance. Picture cozy evenings by the grand stone fireplace, or mornings spent sipping coffee on the spacious deck, enveloped by soaring trees and the soothing sounds of nature. The charming setting offers unparalleled privacy and a sense of reprieve, while top-tier amenities and vibrant city life remain within easy reach. Set on a sprawling lot on the notorious 'Moffatt Farm' estate, this residence shares rare air with only 5 other luxury properties. With ample space for gatherings and an ambiance that feels like a perpetual getaway, this property is a rare gem whether you opt to enjoy the existing nostalgia or create a mountain modern retreat.

Located just 3 miles from the heart of downtown Asheville, this exceptional property offers a rare opportunity to either create a family compound or a new residential development project. Spanning over 12 acres, this sprawling estate combines end-of-the-road privacy with the convenience of being moments from downtown Asheville. The existing estate includes a main house with all the charm of a 1930's home that has been completely updated, a guest cottage perfect for guests or a caretaker, and a three car, conditioned detached garage with apartment/living space above it. The home's position on the property allows for multiple development options. The existing estate could stay as is and the additional 8-acres (approx) could be developed or the entire 12+acres could be developed. Buyer to confirm utility connections for development purposes and development potential with City of Asheville. Please see attachments for more development information. No drivebys - home not visible from Road

Hickory Forest is a custom built, 5 bed, 5+ bath mountaintop oasis on 24.5 acres at nearly 4,000 ft affording cooler summers. The interiors showcase incredible depth and natural light throughout a thoughtful and open floorplan. White oak floors, 10' coffered celings and a statement stone fireplace highlight the living room. The kitchen includes a large island, 36” Wolf range, custom cabinetry, and walk-in pantry. Enjoy a 4-seasons room with fireplace and elevated deck just off the dining room. The main level primary suite features double vanities, walk-in shower, jacuzzi tub, a deck, and 4-seasons room. The 2nd level includes a family room with wet bar and full bath, two guest bedrooms and full bath. On the terrace level a recreation room with gas fireplace leads to 2 en-suite bedrooms, home office, large gym, and enclosed heated pool with retractable roof. Additional features: 3 car garage, geothermal HVAC system, solar array, 2 wells, and LEED Platinum Certified Home 5-Star Rating.

Escape to 48 Merrell Road, a serene home offering comfort and convenience in picturesque Leicester, NC. This inviting property features 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, with bright, open living spaces and and a large modern kitchen for entertaining. Primary bedroom is on main. Large windows invite scenic nature into the kitchen with you. Expansive large back deck perfect for entertainment and enjoying the sound of the flowing creek and waterfall. The primary bedroom is on the first floor with laundry in primary closet. Workspace in the basement with a garage door for easy outside access. The outdoor space includes a hand built stone fire pit and seating area, a flowing creek with a built-in waterfall, and gorgeous grassy knolls. The lot is slightly over five and a half acres, with plenty of room to build separate structures or build a main house and have this one as a guest home. Privacy, opportunity, and serenity. This home is part modular and part stick built. See Agent remarks for roof.

OWNER MOTIVATED AND PRICE REDUCED $35,000. BAY HARBOUR CORNER LOT HOME ON .37 ACRES In the highly-sought after Dr Phillips lakefront 'Phillips Landing', a 24/hour guard-gated lakefront community. THIS gorgeous custom HEATED pool and spa home is PRIVATELY situated with beautiful landscaping and an abundance of brick pavers and full Irrigation system with Private WELL. ONE-story with the primary suite in its own entire wing of the home with a massive walk-in closet with double-doors with mirrors on both sides. Huge incredible luxurious bathroom with a walk-in shower and a large separate soaking garden tub. Tiered front Entry with Travertine tile and Stunning double glass and wood Entry doors - STEP INSIDE to breathtaking views EVERYWHERE! The raised foyer with inlay medallion and lighted tray ceiling sets the tone – this home is special. Once inside the views are extraordinary with stunning Travertine tile, designer built-in shelving and Palladian windows overlooking an incredible, uniquely designed lagoon pool and spa with a PebbleTec surface, enchanting spillover fountains and a stone bridge. Pool pump and Propane Pool Heater updated. Triple 'stack sliding' glass doors allow you to enjoy the views, breezes and entertain with ease. The home is pool planned as well. Your kitchen is an instant pleaser with custom cabinetry, soft-close drawers and doors, and a five-burner gas top range with an expandable burner. Lovely decorator range hood with LED lighting and exhaust fan. Spacious walk-in closet. All upgraded stainless steel appliances with convection cooking features too. Raised bar seating and very comfortable breakfast/dining space with bay windows and door to pool make this a great all-day space for activities. Three guest bedrooms in two separate wings and two lovely guest baths allow for comfort and privacy. Inside utility offers abundance of cabinets, drawers and a wet sink. Two-year washer/dryer included. The three-car garage is huge and with high ceilings, has ALL Updated Garage doors in 2021 lots of pegboard on walls for easy hanging and storage, attached work table and shelving remain. Single-car garage opener is new too and there are 4 remotes. Updated March 2024 is a 5-ton 16.0 SEER-rated CARRIER A/C and heat system. Well for lawn watering and Rain Sensor too. EXTERIOR Recently painted. The home has elevated decor and construction. Sellers have recent pre-sale inspection reports including 4 Point and Wind Mitigation with no significant defects noted. Terminix Preventable Termite Bond 'in-ground' stations is transferable. No prior issuesl Small water craft can access Big Sand Lake from inside the community common grounds. Excellent location with a New high school, baseball fields, a world-class YMCA, Restaurant Row, Disney, Universal and Sea World only minutes away! Perfect for everyone!

Nestled on a secluded corner lot within the Elk Run community in Lower Pinebrook, this updated end-unit townhome is well suited to both primary and secondary homeowners. A semi-open concept main level offers walkout access from the kitchen and family room to an oversized deck with large pergola, ideal for al fresco dining on warm alpine evenings. Interior upgrades include a Samsung stainless steel appliance suite, granite countertops, refreshed shower enclosures, interior paint, and premium vinyl plank flooring. Oversized windows throughout and vaulted ceilings in the living room usher in ample natural light, and create an ideal space for watching snow fall on winter nights. On the lower level, a private two car garage with built-in shelving allows for ample recreation equipment storage. Beautifully maintained and sheltered in a peaceful neighborhood, the walkability to parks, trails, schools, dining, and shopping cannot be understated - offering appeal to mountain adventurers and Salt Lake City commuters alike. Conveniently located 25 minutes to Salt Lake City International Airport and only 5 minutes to Kimball Junction, this home beckons as a warm and welcoming retreat after a day exploring all of Northern Utah's natural wonders.

Nestled in the pines and aspens of a beautiful hollow, this luxurious contemporary townhome lives like a home with a gracious open floor plan. The great room features a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace flanked by equally large windows framing the seasonal sights of nature in the mountains. Architectural minimalist treads lead to the private upper-level master suite with a gas fireplace and sitting area infused with natural light. Custom lighting and wall coverings add an artistic aesthetic throughout. Large wrap-around decks and the lower level family room offer additional entertainment spaces. Enjoy seasonal hikes starting at a nearby trail as well as all of the dining, shopping, and activities in Park City. Enclave is a community of 24 town homes and 4 private homes that have been architecturally designed to intrinsically blend with their natural surroundings.