Living Legends: 5 ‘One of One’ Homes That Break the Architectural Mold

For so many years, the housing market was dominated by "blank canvas" properties that a future owner could make their own, but in recent years there has been a marked shift from neutral, minimalist designs to those that offer a one-of-a-kind character.

As a result, statement architecture is surging in popularity—providing homebuyers with the chance to own a dwelling that marries artistic prowess and truly unique curb appeal.

These stand-out styles don't fit any kind of mold. And while they may have been influenced by some of the more significant architectural trends throughout history, whether its midcentury modern design or Italianate elegance, they each offer something truly singular when compared to other properties on the market.

Whether you are looking for a reimagined modernist mansion or a midcentury-inspired estate with distinctive design, an eye-catching home will certainly serve as a timeless conversation piece.

From to New York to California, we found five architectural gems that are true works of art.

1. 5261 NE 5th Ave, Miami, FL

Price: $6,250,000

Skyfin: This modernist mansion has been recently reimagined by architect Gabriela Liebert while taking care to preserve its original design created by Rufus Nims, creator of the iconic orange-roofed Howard Johnson restaurants and hotels made famous in the 1950s and '60s.

Located in the guard-gated Morningside enclave, the five-bedroom contemporary now boasts a 4,142-square-foot open floor plan featuring columns and glass walls designed to bring the outdoors inside. Luxurious finishes include a sleek Boffi kitchen, rich oak wood floors, illuminated tray ceilings, custom windows, a floating staircase, a loft-style office, and primary suite with a private terrace.

Second-floor terraces have access via a sculptural outdoor staircase to the in-ground pool surrounded by covered patios.

Carlos Fernandez of Douglas Elliman - Coconut Grove is the listing agent.

2. 6203 Ledge Mountain Dr, Austin, TX

Price: $1,749,000

Spanish Revival-inspired estate: Built in 1984, this four-bedroom residence has been thoughtfully updated by interior designer Claire Brody, who is known for her "expert layering and subtle drama."

Found throughout the modernized 2,382-square-foot interior are a softened palette with layered textures. A "moody" living room offers a woodburning fireplace and built-in bookshelves. The stylish kitchen has marble countertops, custom cabinetry, and a hidden pantry. French doors open up to a tiled patio and private yard.

Located in the Northwest Hills neighborhood just 10 minutes from downtown Austin, the estate is being offered fully furnished.

Kelton Finley of Douglas Elliman Real Estate is the listing agent.

3. 80 W Washington Pl, New York, NY

Price: $21,000,000

Georgian townhouse: Built in 1839, this red brick Greenwich Village landmark has been redesigned to now offer a more modern living space.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and once owned by famous composer John Philip Sousa, the restored five-story residence boasts a stylish 8,757-square-foot interior with double-height great room, private elevator, skylights illuminating multiple levels, a floating wood staircase with a glass banister, and a wellness floor with a glass-enclosed sauna.

A lower level features a 700-bottle wine cellar, bar, tasting lounge, an additional full kitchen, and separate staff quarters. An enormous primary retreat, with a fireplace and private terrace, occupies the entire fourth floor.

There are four landscaped private terraces, including a roof deck with an outdoor kitchen and a bar, providing sweeping views of Washington Square Park, One World Trade Center, and the downtown skyline.

Melissa Olson of 140 Franklin is the listing agent.

4. 7 Folie Ct, Manhasset, NY

Price: $5,500,000

Tim Maldonado-designed mansion: Built in 1991, this nature-integrated contemporary was inspired by the design principles of Frank Lloyd Wright.

The four-bedroom residence's skylit interior envisioned as a livable work of art features natural wood and stone, bold geometric lines, a floating steel staircase, flamed Canadian granite floors, and walls of glass to frame the landscape.

Carved wooden doors imported from Paris open up to an indoor water feature. A gourmet kitchen has bespoke European rift oak cabinetry, a dedicated coffee station, and butler's pantry. The primary suite has a soaking tub, dual walk-in closets, and a private balcony. An additional kitchen and 1,000-bottle wine cellar can be found on the lower level.

Located in North Hills, the property also boasts a heated in-ground pool with a spa and a heated three-car garage.

Irene Rallis of Manhasset is the listing agent.

5. 2557 Hutton Dr, Beverly Hills, CA

Price: $3,995,000

Rebuilt by artist Doris La Frenais: This four-bedroom estate with layered interiors features an atelier-inspired interior with sophisticated custom details.

A front iron door opens up to a foyer with a sunken living room featuring a double-sided fireplace shared with the chef's kitchen. Staff quarters can be found off the kitchen that also boasts a breakfast nook and access to a canyon garden. Other highlights include a screening room, skylit art studio, en suite guest bedrooms, and a primary suite with a meditation room and a private terrace overlooking the pool.

Located in the foothills of the Beverly Hills Post Office area, the nearly half-acre property also boasts a waterfall, firepit, and an expansive patio for entertaining.

Juliette Hohnen of Beverly Hills is the listing agent.