The One Genius Thing I Learned From Watching Netflix’s ‘The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes’

Few Netflix binges are as soothing, delightful, and inspiring as “The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes“. I’ve learned much from my hours watching architect Piers Taylor and property enthusiast Caroline Quentin lead viewers on tours of some of the most jaw-dropping and unusual homes around the globe.

While it may not seem like there are actionable takeaways from something so voyeuristic and aspirational, there’s one important lesson I’ve learned from these architectural masterpieces (besides the fact that Norwegian architects are ruggedly handsome): By accentuating where your lifestyle meets your environment, you can easily make your own home extraordinary.

Here are three key strategies to follow.

The show’s featured architects often construct windows based solely on the landscape surrounding the home, in order to showcase the environment as if it was an art piece. Consider rearranging the layout or furniture in one of your rooms to focus your window’s view as the real statement piece. Visitors—or future prospective buyers—won’t just be wowed by the staging, but also by that killer view.

Folks with unconventional work hours can attest to the power of invasive natural light. If you’ve got intense night owl or early bird tendencies, ask if your bedroom’s location, temperature, and natural light meet your needs. Test out switching your bedroom space with a different room that better serves your circadian rhythm and prepares you for a productive day (or night!).

Speaking of temperature, if your home struggles to circulate air, reassess where you’ve placed furniture and whether you can keep some doors propped open (or remove them entirely) to promote air flow. If you have a space that heats up in the afternoon, invest in planting trees or installing a trellis. With time, the shade will help cool down hot spaces.

In addition, for those in arid climates, construct my favorite mid-century throwback, breeze blocks, as a weekend project. They let the breeze into your yard while maintaining privacy—and make for an elevated look.  

When you’re more focused on highlighting the natural surroundings, whether you’re perched on the rocky cliff of an icy fjord or nestled at the base of a tropical forest, your home will speak for itself. The most extraordinary houses aren’t styled around a trendy accent or thoughtless choice. It’s the homes that center terrain, culture, and lifestyle really shine.