\
ICEBERG houses are a new real estate trend adopted by the rich and famous – including Taylor Swift’s beau Travis Kelce.
The current craze is being jumped on by developers and stars alike and may be the future of home expansion – here’s what we know about iceberg houses.
5
5
What are iceberg houses?
Iceberg houses are a trend that emphasize opulence – but in underground, hidden places.
Stars are looking to build their dream home down instead of up – turning basements into lavish underground spaces that are private.
The elaborate underground spaces could be anything from pools and gyms to wine cellars and private theaters – some have even built wellness centres in the depths of their home.
But building an iceberg home is said to be very costly.
read more in entertainment
In star-studded cities like Los Angeles, hidden basements could push construction costs right into the millions, reports claim.
What iceberg house is Travis Kelce creating?
Kansas City Chiefs star – and Taylor Swift’s boyfriend – Travis Kelce is reportedly expanding his beautiful home in Leawood, Kansas – but using the iceberg method.
The underground development on a $6million home he bought last year will send speculation soaring that he is ready to propose to the singer.
The NFL legend is expanding the six-bedroom property where Taylor regularly stays.
The Daily Mail say the Kansas City Chiefs star is having a 396-square-foot section built, including space for an in indoor golf simulator.
The basement floor will be dug up and lowered by two and a half feet.
Construction staff are said to have begun excavation work this month, with phase one expected to be finished by December.
Kelce’s mansion is in a suburb 20 minutes south of the Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium.
Are iceberg houses popular?
The US only just seems to be warming up to the iceberg house trend – but the UK’s London has been doing it for well over a decade.
In a study done by the Guardian, the outlet revealed thousands of basement expansions in the capital over the past few years.
These lavish developments include gyms, private theaters, pools – and even staff quarters.
Meanwhile in the US, areas like Phoenix have seen an increased interest in finished basements.
This is due to the decrease in temperature found underground in warm climates.
And homes with such additions tend to get snapped up very quickly due to the extra space they provide without raising cooling costs for an extra floor upwards.
5
Iceberg homes can even generate extra income when they’re leased out as rentals.
Are there risks with iceberg houses?
Iceberg houses, like any other normal property, come with some risks.
Underground projects tend to be complex and aren’t promised to increase a home’s appraised value depending on local regulations.
Environmental impact is also continuing to be of concern with concrete-heavy construction contributing to carbon emissions.
These reasons raise questions on whether iceberg houses are sustainable – and whether they will become more common.
5
5
