August stands at the forefront of the luxury real estate market, providing comprehensive services from purchasing and renovating to furnishing and managing shared homes across Europe.
The company offers access to some of the continent’s most iconic destinations, including the Alps, the French Riviera, Tuscany, and the Balearic Islands.
August has revolutionised the holiday home co-ownership model, fostering a sense of community among its clientele.
Origination and Concept: A Vision Realised
Founded in 2018 by Mélie Dunod and Nico Watzenig, August emerged from the belief that shared ownership could provide flexibility and variety without sacrificing quality or location. With backgrounds in real estate and interior design, Dunod and Watzenig saw the potential to offer a unique solution to the traditional holiday home market.
They recognised that most holiday homes are underutilised, being occupied for just 35 days a year on average. The August model allows homeowners to own shares in multiple homes, with prices starting at €365,000, addressing the financial and logistical challenges of owning a second home.
August’s properties are organised into distinct ‘Collections,’ each designed to meet diverse lifestyle needs, from luxurious retreats to chic city apartments.
Current Collections: Tailored for Every Lifestyle
Designed for families seeking the ultimate holiday experience, the Premium Collection features four to five-bedroom homes with expansive communal areas.
Located in prime destinations such as the South of France, Tuscany, Mallorca, the French Alps, and The Cotswolds, these properties, with shares starting at €700,000, offer both indoor and outdoor spaces for family gatherings.
The Signature Collection is ideal for those who enjoy varied holidays and value convenience. These three to four-bedroom homes are spacious and comfortable, perfect for families or small groups of friends.
With properties in the South of France, Tuscany, Mallorca, the French Alps, and The Cotswolds, shares start at €435,000.
For those seeking cultural immersion, the Pied à Terre Collection offers two-bedroom apartments in the heart of Europe’s finest cities, including London, Paris, Rome, Cannes, and Barcelona. Shares in this collection start at €365,000, providing a perfect base for city escapes.
The Prime Collection caters to the most discerning travellers, featuring four exquisite homes in the most sought-after locales. This collection offers elevated service standards and exclusive amenities. With properties in the South of France, Tuscany, Mallorca, and the French Alps, shares start at €1,480,000.
A Sustainable Approach Rooted in Community
Unlike many co-ownership platforms that focus on new, modern homes, August prioritises sustainability and community integration. The company restores existing properties, working with local experts to maintain architectural authenticity.
This approach supports local businesses and craftspeople, ensuring that homes are inhabited year-round and contributing to the local economy beyond peak tourist seasons.
August’s design philosophy combines functionality with charm. Each home is meticulously renovated to meet the company’s high standards, using local suppliers and craftspeople. This ensures that every property is unique, reflecting the local culture while providing all the modern comforts.
The August Co-Ownership Model: Simplifying Luxury
August’s co-ownership model brings together a global community of like-minded individuals through established real estate entities. The company manages all aspects of property ownership, from design and renovation to maintenance, allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of owning multiple properties without the associated hassles.
August’s in-market teams work closely with the London headquarters, handling language barriers, legal processes, and market expertise to simplify the holiday homeownership experience.
Each year, August establishes six new private Collections of four to five homes, with a maximum of 21 owners per collection. The company has a growing waitlist of potential homeowners interested in joining. Families are selected based on their shared interest in owning beautiful homes worldwide, exploring new cultures, and enjoying varied travel experiences.
100% Ownership and Flexible Use
Homeowners enjoy 100% ownership of the properties in their collection, including the accompanying land and contents. Each share provides an average of eight to 12 weeks of use per year, with the option to buy up to four shares per collection. August’s customer base spans 18 different countries, with real estate developments in 10 European markets.
In 2024, August plans to expand into new markets and launch additional products in response to homeowner demand. The company’s unique private collection model continues to attract a diverse and growing clientele.
Les Virettes: A Jewel in the South of France
One of August’s latest additions, Les Virettes, is a stunning Provençal home in the South of France. Located in the picturesque village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, known for its vibrant violet fields, this property exemplifies August’s commitment to blending architectural history with modern comforts.
The villa offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and provides a serene retreat just a short bicycle ride from the village centre.
Les Virettes, built in the 1970s, features traditional Provençal architecture and several original elements. Spanning 215 sqm over two floors, the property includes multiple terraces opening onto the garden.
August’s renovation will restore the home’s grandeur, preserving its historical features while incorporating modern amenities to create an exquisite holiday retreat.
Conclusion
August is not just transforming luxury real estate; it is revolutionising the way we perceive and engage with holiday home ownership. By offering a unique co-ownership model that combines flexibility, variety, and luxury without the usual burdens of second home ownership, August provides an unparalleled experience for discerning travellers.
Their sustainable approach, which focuses on community integration and the restoration of existing properties, sets them apart in the industry. Each home is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design, ensuring that every stay is as comfortable as it is memorable.
August’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their operations, from the careful selection of properties to the detailed renovation and ongoing maintenance. The global community of like-minded homeowners they have cultivated reflects a shared appreciation for cultural immersion, exploration, and the finer things in life.
As the company continues to expand into new markets and introduce innovative products, it remains dedicated to providing exceptional value and service to its homeowners.
With a growing clientele and an ever-expanding portfolio, August is set to redefine luxury real estate and holiday homeownership for years to come, making it a market leader and a beacon of excellence in the industry.
