Do you fantasize about the perfect, over-the-top luxury home?  Can you imagine living in the middle of an ocean, river or lake?  Do you yearn for a property that boasts a shoreline?  If you answer yes to any of those questions, then you have countless options.  Architecturally significant homes for people with discerning tastes, completely secluded properties nestled in the mountains, sprawling compounds for those that love to throw a party, and quiet retreats for families are just the tip of the iceberg for what’s available.

Take the Utopia Project, for example.  It’s not just a house.  It’s an entirely man-made island retreat, with glass enclosures that either cover the inside or open out to create stunning decks, making it suitable for any weather.  Designed to look like a spaceship, it gives astounding 360-degree views of the surrounding environment.

What is that environment?  That’s for the owner of this private paradise to decide.  The home’s ship-like design, created by Yacht Island Designs in association with BMT Nigel Gee, allows it to be floated like a boat to any location.  Really.  And it’s sturdy construction means it can withstand even the harshest terrain, due in no small part to its four legged design.  But what about those people who like the idea of a completely man-made island but would rather be surrounded by a lush, tropical atmosphere?  You can get that, too – a 295-foot island that comes with its own waterfall and volcano (faux, of course).

The steel-constructed Utopia Project is unusual, no doubt.  Most island’s aren’t made of metal.  Take, for instance, Lake Mahopac, New York.  It’s a tiny man-made island full of trees, rocky outcroppings and dense brush on which stands a delightful little summer house that would have made Frank Lloyd Wright drool.  Inspired by his work, the 28-foot great room in the “cottage” extends out into the lake, making it easy to see this stunning home from the mainland.  It also features a deck that blends with the rocky outline of the island.  To enter, guests must descend through a narrow path which ends in a huge boulder called Whale Rock.  It basks in natural light from extensive skylights.  Talk about a dramatic statement.

Luxury is what it’s all about.  And La Gorge Estate in Miami is the perfect example.  Built in a Mediterranean style, the villa is really a complex of three buildings and has since been remodeled to look like a modern home.  Guests are treated to unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay through the glass walls and windows of the 16,000 square foot main house.  An amazing bathroom with his-and-her bathtubs overlooks the water and a heated lap pool runs parallel to the bay.

To maximize its location, the home was designed with the idea of making the most of the view with balconies and viewing areas – and no two are alike.  Garden paths and outdoor seating areas provide even more time for island reflection.   Easily the perfect place to enjoy morning coffee or sunset cocktails.