PHOTO: Taylor Swift. FILE
Travis Kelce Joins the ‘Iceberg House’ Trend: Building a Lavish Man Cave in His $6M Kansas Mansion
NFL superstar Travis Kelce is reportedly embracing the latest in luxury home design by constructing a state-of-the-art man cave beneath his newly purchased $6 million mansion in Leawood, Kansas. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end is adding some serious flair to his home by including a high-end golf simulator, along with other bespoke features, in his subterranean sanctuary.
Kelce’s latest project is part of the growing “iceberg house” trend, where homeowners build luxurious spaces underground rather than expanding above ground. This architectural phenomenon has taken the world of high-end real estate by storm, allowing for expansive, hidden spaces that don’t compromise the exterior aesthetic of a property.
Financial/property journalist and podcaster leaves with a sour taste | WATCH
The Iceberg House Trend: Hidden Luxury Below Ground
The concept of the iceberg house is becoming increasingly popular among affluent homeowners, particularly in urban areas where space is at a premium. The term “iceberg house” refers to properties where more square footage is hidden below ground than is visible above, much like an iceberg floating in the sea. This trend offers homeowners a discreet way to expand their living space without altering their property’s external appearance.
Justin M. Riordan, founder of Spade and Archer Design Agency, describes this trend as a shift towards understated luxury. “Iceberg homes offer a modest exterior while concealing expansive, opulent interiors below ground,” Riordan notes. “This reflects a modern understanding that true wealth is about the quality of life inside, not just what’s on display.”
Taylor Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce is joining the “iceberg house” trend. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP)
What’s Inside an Iceberg House?
Iceberg homes are not just limited to basements and storage rooms; these spaces are often transformed into lavish amenities such as private cinemas, indoor swimming pools, wellness centers, and even underground tennis courts. Travis Kelce is following suit by incorporating a golf simulator, which is expected to become the highlight of his basement man cave.
Real estate investor Ron Myers highlights that with rising property prices, homeowners are looking to maximize their investments. “A basement provides extra space to play with—without the need to expand upward,” Myers explains. However, these projects are not for the faint-hearted; luxury developers estimate that iceberg homes in cities like Los Angeles can cost upwards of $1 million just for the basement construction.
Trump’s Win Sparks Massive Surge in Americans Eyeing New Zealand Homes
Travis Kelce has also built a pickleball court at his Kansas mansion. Picture: Backgrid
The Rise of Iceberg Homes in the United States and Beyond
While this trend is just gaining traction in the U.S., iceberg homes have been all the rage in London for over a decade. Between 2008 and 2017, over 4,600 basement extensions were approved in London alone, featuring amenities like wine cellars, gyms, and even artificial beaches, according to a Newcastle University study.
In the U.S., cities like Atlanta and Phoenix are starting to see a surge in demand for homes with finished basements. “In Atlanta, a well-renovated basement can be a game-changer in a competitive real estate market,” says Myers. Meanwhile, real estate agents in warmer regions like Phoenix emphasize that underground spaces provide additional square footage while helping to keep homes cool, reducing electricity costs.
The Challenges of Building Below Ground
Despite their allure, iceberg homes come with a unique set of challenges. Construction mishaps can be costly and, in some cases, catastrophic. A notable example occurred in London in 2020 when a $6 million home collapsed during an attempt to extend its basement. Additionally, the concrete used in underground construction can significantly increase a property’s carbon footprint, raising concerns about environmental sustainability.
Basements are also notorious for issues like dampness and poor air quality. Scott Waters, a real estate agent in Virginia, advises that proper insulation, ventilation, and the use of dehumidifiers are crucial for maintaining a comfortable underground living space. Furthermore, homeowners in flood-prone areas need to invest in sump pumps to prevent potential water damage.
The Future of Home Design: Maximizing Space with Iceberg Homes
The increasing popularity of iceberg homes indicates a shift in how wealthy homeowners view luxury and space optimization. For homeowners like Travis Kelce, who are looking to add high-end features without altering their home’s exterior, this trend offers a compelling solution. By building down rather than up, homeowners can enjoy a wide range of amenities while maintaining privacy and a modest street presence.
Whether it’s for creating a high-tech man cave, a serene wellness retreat, or a lucrative rental unit, the potential for iceberg homes is vast. As this trend continues to grow, it’s likely we’ll see more homeowners, both in the U.S. and abroad, embracing the art of building down to elevate their living spaces.
Key Takeaways:
- Travis Kelce is building a luxurious man cave with a golf simulator beneath his Kansas mansion.
- Iceberg homes offer hidden luxury by expanding below ground, becoming the latest trend among the wealthy.
- The trend allows for expansive underground amenities like cinemas, pools, and wellness centers.
- Environmental concerns and construction challenges remain, but the appeal of maximizing space is driving demand.
As more homeowners look for creative ways to maximize their properties, iceberg homes represent a modern approach to luxury living that balances opulence with discretion. Whether you’re a fan of Travis Kelce’s NFL prowess or simply intrigued by the latest in home design, the iceberg house trend is certainly one to watch.
SOURCE: NEWS.COM.AU