Best Places to Live 2015: Ultra-Luxe in the ‘Burbs

The cost of full-service living in Boston has skyrocketed, driving developers to lure amenity seeking buyers out to the suburbs with elaborate campuslike complexes, packed with everything from swimming pools to golf courses to Pilates. —Lindsay Tucker

Rendering courtesy of Handel Architects

Rendering courtesy of Handel Architects. Photos below: courtesy of Left Field PM (Nouvelle); Turner Hill (Turner Hill); TCC Real Estate (Moorings); Illustration by Adams Design (Belclare).

Hannah Driscoll, a team leader at Redfin real estate brokerage, says we’re actually moving into a new era of what she calls über-luxury, led in part by Millennium Partners’ ongoing revitalization of downtown. By last October, 150 units in Millennium Tower (rendering pictured at right) were sold before it hit the public market, including three penthouses over $9 million.

Weren’t one of the lucky few? Fret not. If you’re willing to leave the city proper, there are plenty of prize-worthy properties in Greater Boston, whether you want a sleek bachelor pad or a family-friendly flat.


 The Shopper’s Paradise
NOUVELLE AT NATICK

natick

Amenities like a lush rooftop park with putting greens, plus a 24-hour fitness center and concierge (think: dry-cleaning delivery) cater to those who are used to ordering from Seamless. The on-site Club Nouvelle means poker, pool, and a posh wine bar, and with private mall access, the food court could start doubling as “the caf.”

$450,000–$750,000; Nouvelle Way, Natick, 508-315-3800, nouvelleatnatick.com.


The Royal Country Club
THE RESIDENCES AT TURNER HILL

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Living like royalty is a reality at this multi-neighborhood community featuring a championship golf course, situated on 300 acres of rolling hills in Ipswich. Enjoy yoga and Pilates followed by 18 holes—or perhaps tennis and a dip in the Junior Olympic pool. Evenings consist of fine dining at one of two on-site restaurants, and maybe a game or two like billiards and darts, paired with a cigar at the on-site club (use of the golf course and club is covered by an additional fee). Ask yourself: What would Kate and Will do?

Starting at $1,020,000; 3 Manor Ln., Ipswich, 978-312-3010, liveturnerhill.com.


The Cruise Ship
THE MOORINGS AT HINGHAM SHIPYARD

hingham

Urban amenities meet classic coastal town at this ritzy condo community built by Boston developer Samuels & Associates (Landmark Center, the Verb Hotel). Wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows face the harbor, while dark wood and pristine white accents complete the nautical vibe. The Launch shopping village next door (Hingham Beerworks, Wahlburgers, Patriot Cinemas) hosts summertime events like family movie nights, concerts, and community market days, keeping you and the kids constantly entertained.

Phase one from $400,000, phase two pending; 18 Shipyard Dr., Hingham, 781-740-7886, themooringssales.com.


The Hassle-Free Hermitage
BELCLARE WELLESLEY

wellsley

This Wellesley Square lair (on the former site of the historical Wellesley Inn) promises freedom from the responsibility of a large property, but with all the luxuries of suburban homeownership: private outdoor space, a big backyard, oversize windows, and upgraded appliances, for starters. Walk to neighborhood shops, restaurants, and the commuter rail; relax in a residents-only garden; or get your heart pumping at the on-site gym and sauna.

Starting at $1,450,000; 54 Central St., Wellesley, 781-237-0075, belclarewellesley.com.

 

Check out all of our Best Places to Live 2015 coverage.