Ken Lowe, the co-founder of HGTV, has placed his exquisite Sea Island estate on the market for £34 million, aiming to spend more time travelling abroad. The property, named “Lowe Tide,” spans an impressive 11,000 square feet and boasts breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It comprises five bedrooms and nine bathrooms, all meticulously designed with a nod to Parisian aesthetics, which reflects the couple’s passion for travel and culture.
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Lowe, who established the popular home and garden television network in 1994, and his wife Julia, purchased the residence in 2017 for £7 million. Initially, they planned only minor renovations, but what began as a modest makeover quickly escalated into an extensive four-year restoration project that greatly enhanced the property’s opulence. Julia, with her background as a trained pastry chef and chocolatier in Paris, played a pivotal role in this transformation, incorporating elegant design elements inspired by her French culinary experiences.
The home features a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen equipped with walk-in refrigeration and dedicated preparation areas, aimed at satisfying even the most discerning culinary enthusiasts. Additionally, it includes a professional chef’s office to facilitate seamless cooking experiences. Julia has expressed that her personal favourite feature of the home is her elaborate three-storey closet—a testament to her keen eye for style.
Beyond the culinary spaces, “Lowe Tide” offers an array of luxurious amenities. The property includes a lovely quatrefoil-shaped pool, extensive gardens complete with tranquil fountains, and a rooftop terrace that captures sweeping ocean views. For those who prioritise fitness, there is also a private gym with ample space for workouts, as well as a four-car garage, catering to those with automotive collections.
Lowe’s vision for HGTV was born in the early 1980s during his tenure as general manager for E.W. Scripps Company’s radio stations. By the early 1990s, he had successfully pitched the idea of a dedicated home and garden television channel to the company’s board, resulting in a £19 million budget to bring his concept to life. The network made its debut in December 1994, revolutionising the way homeowners and aspiring decorators approached design and renovation.
Reflecting on HGTV’s impact, Lowe shared insights into the network’s success and its educational role. He noted that two decades ago, home building and design seemed esoteric, almost a “deep, dark mystery.” Today, he says, the perception has shifted significantly. People are increasingly considering how their home will enhance their lifestyles and accommodate their families, rather than simply serving as shelter.
As they prepare to embark on new adventures across Paris, London, and New York, the Lowes are keen to find buyers who will appreciate and enjoy their luxurious residence. Currently, the listing is being managed by Susan Imhoff from DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty, highlighting the property’s unique charm and luxurious features to potential buyers.
The sale of “Lowe Tide” marks a significant transition for the couple, who are eager to embrace a lifestyle that prioritises travel and new experiences. Their decision underscores a growing trend among affluent homeowners who view their properties not only as living spaces but also as stepping stones to global adventures.
With its stunning design, remarkable amenities, and strategic location overlooking the Atlantic, the Lowes’ estate stands as a testament to luxury living at its finest. It remains to be seen who will take up the opportunity to own this unique piece of property, but it certainly represents a rare find in the current real estate market.