When you think about today’s luxury real estate sector, co-ownership may well spring to mind. A hot property market topic, upscale shared ownership allows buyers to co-own enviable holiday homes in sought-after destinations, at a fraction of the cost of purchasing outright
One of the key considerations for affluent house-hunters is ensuring the shared second homes are as tastefully decorated and welcoming as their primary residences.
Feeling at home is non-negotiable, and so with that in mind, we reached out to our long-term partner August to explore the design concept behind luxury shared properties. August offers a co-ownership model, whereby people can co-own a collection of homes or a single property. Specializing in prime EU locations, people have the benefit of a second home without the maintenance hassles or mortgage worries.
Co-ownership design process
August founders Mélie and Nico boast a well-rounded and expert background covering real estate, law, finance and service management. On top of that, they also have extensive interior design experience. Over the years, the pair have specialized in holiday home transactions, from buying and selling to full builds and renovation programs.
After working on a host of building, design, and restoration projects in southern Europe, the company has cultivated a wealth of knowledge. They also collaborate with world-class and trusted partners, further broadening their expertise. Together, the talented group has more than 30 years of experience.
Design principles
Each home in August’s growing portfolio is refurbished and assigned to a ‘Collection’ – a group of five shared ownership homes – or marketed stand-alone . What are the key pillars when redesigning and customizing a property?
Firstly, it’s about finding homes in traditional and sought-after destinations that are easily accessible. Through a vast network of relationships and connections, the team gains an advantage, getting first dibs on houses not yet listed on the open market.
Preserving the history of a home is important, so there’s respect and love for original details – nothing is ripped out or replaced unnecessarily. Choosing the right materials to suit the structure also ranks highly. With these things in mind, August’s design-first approach strikes the classic/contemporary balance, ensuring décor is sympathetic to both the structure and region.
Ski apartment in Chamonix, France, Signature Collection by August
Aesthetics and beautiful design are at the heart of the process, with old and new fusing seamlessly, and comfort a top priority. What’s more, interiors take inspiration from the surrounding landscape, be it alpine, countryside, or coastal.
By creating homes that are alluring and upscale but timeless, it’s possible to meet the expectations of a diverse range of co-owners. The ultimate aim? An authentic vibe that makes shared owners feel proud to call the property their own.
At the moment, August has Signature and Family Collections; both feature exquisitely designed and finished properties, offering a consistently high standard, oodles of style, and meticulous attention to detail. Let’s take a brief look at each.
Authentically designed collections
The Signature Collection (from €355,000) is ideal for groups, consisting of five deluxe homes with three to four bedrooms located in highly sought-after European spots: Provence, Chamonix, Tuscany, Mallorca, and The Cotswolds. “We like how well-put-together the entire collection of homes looks, as well as the interior design and level of finish that comes with the homes,” say co-owners Lucy and Johnathan.
Ski apartment in Chamonix, France, Signature Collection by August
The Family Collection (from €210,000) is well-suited to people with children looking for hotel-quality amenities such as a pool. The desirable locations that make up this collection are the Côte d’Azur, Chamonix, Tuscany, Barcelona, and Mallorca. “The design aesthetic of August homes really appealed to us, and we appreciate August renovates the homes ensuring the process is hassle-free,” say co-owners Hywel and Jesper. “We also like the combination of traditional and contemporary design that is sympathetic to the home.”
Whichever you opt for, each residence is spacious, charming, within 45 minutes of an airport, walking distance to the local village, and close to leisure activities such as golf.
Prime examples of the design-forward approach
Below are properties from each collection. All have been thoughtfully remodeled and decorated with comfort, style, and the surrounding area in mind.
Tasteful apartment in Chamonix, France – Signature Collection
This charming four-bedroom ski apartment is situated in Chamonix, the French Alps town renowned for top-class skiing. Sitting in the pedestrian area on Avenue Ravanel le Rouge, the split-level residence spans 115 square meters and boasts spectacular Mont Blanc views from the sizeable terrace – the ideal spot for al fresco dining, be it breakfast, group meals, or mid-morning coffee and cake. Inspired by its traditional alpine surrounds, the space is elegant yet modern, filled with comforts such as hotel-grade mattresses and a private sauna.
in Chamonix, France
Decorated with raw exposed wooden beams and a warm color palette, the calming flat sleeps eight across four bedrooms (two with an en-suite) and features a cozy living room with a wood burner, soft curtains, and a Gubi sheepskin chair. Completing the deluxe picture are a state-of-the-art kitchen with a stone raclette grill and an oversized bathroom with an Italian shower.
Lush sanctuary in Valbonne, France – Signature Collection
In an enviable location, this four-bedroom home away from home is a mere five minutes from the picturesque town of Valbonne. Also just a brief drive from the French Riviera, the villa oozes rustic charm, reflecting the surrounding Provence landscape. Décor-wise, the 180 square meters of interiors feature warm terracotta flooring, local ceramics, and soft tones and fabrics, taking inspiration from nature and classic Provencal materials. The country chic kitchen is carefully laid out, with glorious views out to the verdant 2,800 square meter garden, while the understated dining room is home to planters and an olive tree, bringing the outside in.
, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France, co-ownership from 320,000 euros
With not one but three individually designed terraces, there’s an outside space to suit all moods – for admiring the rather special sunsets, choose the shady kitchen patio. Additionally, let’s not forget the sun-drenched garden has an outdoor kitchen and an inviting pool. Back indoors, there’s also a cozy TV room and three bathrooms decked out with tiles traditional to the region.
Sought-after postcode in Cannes, France – Family Collection
South-facing and spread over 80 square meters, the floor plan of this soon-to-be renovated two-bedroom apartment offers dual views to the hills of Cannes and the sea. Centrally located in the glamorous French Riviera resort, once complete, the space will house a capacious open-plan living and dining area with a large terrace leading off it, boasting fabulous vistas to the Mediterranean. Furthermore, the contemporary master will have its own balcony and there will be two stylish bathrooms.
in Cannes, France
The light and airy fifth-floor apartment will be decorated in neutral tones and feature wooden flooring, furnishings, and beams, alongside pale stonework. Communal services include a swimming pool, private garage, and concierge. The overall vibe? Smart, modern, and sophisticated – much like the surrounding upmarket town.
You can discover the modern way to own holiday homes by visiting Augustcollection.co.uk or contact +447852133318 / info@augustcollection.co.uk for more information.
