21216 Rio Oro Drive

About this home

Waterfront living on Lake Norman takes on a whole new meaning in this exceptional custom home in Cornelius. Designed for the way you actually want to live, entertain, work, and unwind, every level of this home has been thoughtfully planned with incredible attention to detail. From the moment you enter through the dramatic 10-foot custom Clark Hall steel door, the quality is unmistakable. Soaring 12-foot ceilings, wide-plank European white oak floors, custom millwork, a striking wine wall, diamond-coffered ceiling, and oversized arched openings set the tone, while expansive quad-stack sliders create a seamless connection between the home, outdoor living spaces, and water beyond.

At the heart of the home, the kitchen combines high-end design with exceptional functionality. Custom two-tone inset cabinetry, white oak accents, a substantial Azurra Bay quartzite island with 2.5-inch mitered edge, panel-ready appliances, and an oversized Venetian plaster range hood create a beautiful gathering space overlooking the lake. Just beyond is a hidden pantry/scullery that feels like a second kitchen, complete with custom cabinetry, a full-size refrigerator, second dishwasher, microwave, and abundant storage.

One of the most thoughtfully designed features of the main level is the private guest suite with its own beautifully finished en-suite bath and oversized walk-in shower. Whether hosting family, long-term guests, or creating a private space for multigenerational living, guests can enjoy their own retreat without sacrificing privacy.

Upstairs, the primary suite feels like a true escape, with gorgeous sliders leading to a private balcony overlooking the lake. It's the perfect spot to unwind at night. Two oversized custom closets with integrated LED lighting, and a spa-inspired bath with marble tile, floor-to-ceiling glass shower, custom cabinetry, dual vanities, and beautiful gold fixtures complete this retreat. Three additional bedrooms and a generously sized laundry room with extensive cabinetry and storage complete the upper level.

But the lower level is where this home truly becomes something special. Designed as an extension of the home’s entertaining space rather than simply a finished basement, it includes a full custom golf simulator, built-in sauna, private home office, second laundry room, and a beautifully appointed kitchenette with ice maker and wine cooler. Quad-stack sliders open the entire space to the lower terrace, while an accordion-style pass-through window from the kitchenette makes indoor/outdoor entertaining effortless. With room for a future pool just outside, this level was designed with lake days, pool parties, game days, and evenings with friends in mind. The second laundry room is an especially thoughtful addition for lake and future pool towels without carrying everything through the home.

Outside, professionally landscaped grounds lead to a peaceful Lake Norman cove and new private dock, putting the water just steps from your door. The 3 covered rear porch provides another place to relax, dine, and enjoy the setting, while the future pool area offers the opportunity to create a complete waterfront resort experience.

From two laundry rooms and exceptional storage to the hidden scullery, private office, golf simulator, sauna, guest suite, custom architectural details, and multiple indoor/outdoor entertaining spaces, no detail feels like an afterthought. This is a home designed not simply to look beautiful, but to live beautifully.

Located in Bahia Bay in Cornelius, this is an opportunity to enjoy the Lake Norman lifestyle in one of the area’s most sought-after waterfront locations—minutes from dining, shopping, medical care, and everything Cornelius has to offer. Exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and waterfront living come together in a home that truly needs to be experienced in person.