Unfortunately, most of us spend more time daydreaming of “our special place” from our work desks and offices than actually being there and with demanding lifestyles, little can usually be done to free up more time. So, as we return from our breaks only to see the sandy shores of tropical beaches on our screensavers, are we destined to simply sigh deeply and lament where we would rather be? Alex Miles and Brian Pascarelli answered that question with a resounding “No!” when they purchased and modified their resort-style home just west of El Paso.
They were simply not satisfied with the idea of traveling to a remote location for a brief period of time in order to be temporarily in the lap of luxury, so, they created a luxurious home they could live in and enjoy every day. At 6,000 square feet, you might be surprised to find there are very few hallways in this beautiful adobe residence. Instead, there are alcoves with one room seemingly leading to another, thereby allowing for more usable living space. The concept is innovative from a practical standpoint and results in another extraordinary facet of this home that sets it apart from more traditional floor plans. Of course there is no question that this home is like no other even upon approach. Crossing the bridge in the courtyard leading to the front door, the pleasing sound of water as it trickles into the koi pond tantalizes the ear as your eyes feast on all of the intricate details that make up the front landscape which includes over 400 types of flowering trees and shrubs.
The entrance into a 35-foot tall foyer with a custom-built semicircular planter is perfectly situated so that it may be viewed from both floors. Because Alex and Brian enjoy entertaining, they made additions to the home that help facilitate gatherings of virtually any size. The 1,300 square foot great room has three separate seating areas (which can be rearranged or removed as needed to accommodate guests) one of which is situated atop a custom 6-foot diameter inlaid medallion that is a conversation piece in itself. The surrounding tile is travertine and has natural variegations in something of a smoldering orange spice. The massive, honey-maple stained vigas backdropped by more delicate latillas add to the dramatic milieu of this space. Luxurious furnishings, one-of-a-kind artwork and custom stained glass windows result in an environment that is on par with showrooms in fine galleries. An inviting bar area, just off of the great room, and a nook where the pair have placed a baby grand piano both loan perfectly to the entertainment-friendly theme of the home.
Stepping into the gourmet kitchen is truly an epicurean’s delight. The pine cabinets have a pickled finish that melds colors of olive and peach. The granite countertops can be fully enjoyed due to appliances that are conveniently concealed behind custom designed roller doors. Simply slide the door up, slip the appliance you need out, and use. There is no need to look for an outlet as the outlets are also thoughtfully hidden inside the space as well. Brian’s basket collection hangs all along the kitchen’s vigas, personalizing the area, making for a homey, welcoming feel. Whether they are enjoying a simple cup of coffee or a full meal, a lovely breakfast nook is just steps away. The large windows that accent the room form a half circle giving a near panoramic view of the beautiful scenery on which the property sits.
In fact, you really can’t talk about this amazing home without discussing the surrounding area. Tranquility is brought to new levels with the spectacular, seasonally changing scenes of the surrounding pecan orchards and cotton fields, not to mention views of both the Organ and Franklin Mountains. Beautiful flagstone patios and several balconies allow for a variety of angles to enjoy sunsets, sunrises and area wildlife attracted to the area during irrigation.
And if not satisfied with the view from indoors, the pair can simply step outside and take in the fresh air poolside. Of course, you must realize, just as this is no ordinary residence, this is definitely no ordinary pool. If you thought you were in a resort up until now, you will feel sure of it when visiting the couple’s outdoor living space. The pool is a 55-foot free form with two waterfalls that flow into it. A third waterfall empties into the koi pond, which is just beyond the eight-person hot tub. I know what you are thinking… “How do I get invited to their parties?”
Who wouldn’t want to enjoy some of these amazing features? This home is such a huge amalgam of luxury, fun and comfort that it would be hard if not impossible to strike this balance by mere chance. And though a lot went on in the planning and renovation of this property, no one would suggest that it wasn’t worth it when looking at the finished product. Alex and Brian’s biggest problem with a home this splendid is that they are hard pressed to find a resort to vacation at that is better than what they live in everyday.
We should all have such difficulties.
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