Living In Circles In Round Houses In CA, FL And IL: How Much House

Sep 22, 2023

ACROSS AMERICA — There are some advantages, at least theoretically, to living in a round house. Contractors and companies that build and sell them tout the energy efficiency that comes with a simple shape, an aerodynamic design that's better able to withstand high winds and hurricanes, and acoustics that soften sounds.

But would you feel like you’re just walking around in circles? Or that you’re stuck on a merry-go-round that won't spin? This week in How Much House, we looked at round homes in California, Florida and Illinois.

The estimated monthly cost to live in each of the featured properties is based on a 20 percent down payment and a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at current rates. It includes property taxes, insurance and associated fees.

2400 Southridge Drive, Palm SpringsListed by: Louise Hampton | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, California PropertiesSquare feet: 7,827Acreage: 1.45 acresBedrooms: 5Bathrooms: 9 (7 full)Year built: 2012 (reconstruction)Estimated annual property taxes: 62,893Estimated monthly cost to live here: $48,345

This contemporary home blends well with the clam-like entrance of the iconic Bob Hope house that sits just above it, the star-studded, guarded and gated enclave. Overlooking the city of Palm Springs, the "round House," as it is known, offers incomparable views of city lights and mountain ranges.

Among the many features that stand out are a well-appointed gourmet kitchen with a butler's pantry that opens to the dining area, an expansive sunken living room, a wet bar and a billiard area, all of which offer views of the outside through automated retractable glass panels that open to create the epitome of indoor/outdoor living.

It has a 10-person theater, a private office and an elevator — or you could climb the dramatic staircase to the suites on the second floor.

They’re dreamy, especially the primary suite that has a huge round closet that appears as large as some boutiques, with enough rack space to support the comparison.

There are almost twice as many bathrooms as bedrooms in this house. Jetted tubs are ubiquitous. And, of course, there's a swimming pool and a patio big enough to host a cast party. Peek inside for more photos.

301 Donora Blvd., Fort MyersListed by: Mark Vancosky | Era Right Choice RealtySquare feet: 1,588Acreage: 0.14 acreBedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2Year built: 1976Estimated annual property taxes: $5,550Estimated monthly cost to live here: $4,383

This 1960s retro home that looks a little like a spaceship on a landing pad is also locally known as the "round house" due to its distinct design.

The aerodynamic concrete structure was built to withstand Florida's strong hurricane winds and, according to the listing, survived the monster Category 5 Hurricane Ian with only minor damage — a cracked window, according to the listing. A structural engineering report is available upon request.

The interior has been gutted to remediate flooding damage from the storm, offering a blank slate, ready for the new owner's flair and style. The dining room has a new EPOXY floor, and terrazzo floors are found throughout the rest of the home. The wooden ceiling beams were unaffected by the flooding, and the roof wasn't damaged, either, according to the listing.

The home has some fresh updates, including a 13-foot-by-13-foot concrete pad at the back of the house with possibilities that include a screened enclosure. The back patio was recently installed with brick pavers, and landscaping and stone were recently applied to the front yard.

The back yard overlooks Mantanzas Pass State Preserve, which has walking trails, a fishing pier and boat docks, and it's a short walk to some of southwest Florida's most beautiful beaches. Peek inside for more photos.

3574 N. Mill Creek, Scales Mound Listed by: Andy Klemmt | Choice RealtySquare feet: 1,031Acreage: 47.94 acresBedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 3 (2 full)Year built: (unavailable)Estimated annual property taxes: $3,693Estimated monthly cost to live here: $2,959

This round house sits on a plateau of nearly 48 acres 50 feet above Mill Creek. The best views of the property are from the upper level of this contemporary country home. The living room, kitchen and primary suite (it has a jet soaking tub and standing shower) are found on this level. A deck offers an expansive view of the property and a place to enjoy sunsets.

The lower level has a family room, two bedrooms, a bath, and a spare room that could be used as on office or another bedroom. A detached 30-foot-by-40-foot garage offers plenty of space to store equipment and big-kid toys.

Situated in the heart of Illinois horse country, this property offers some of the finest hunting around. Both dense timber and income-producing cropland have been maintained to provide high quality deer and turkey hunting. Trophy-class bucks are common.

"Great bucks have been taken yearly from this area of the Jo Daviess County," according to the listing. "Game trails everywhere you look! Turkey and deer are plentiful." Peek inside for more photos.