Friday, June 5, 2026

Where We Live: Kingsmill condo like a cruise ship

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In Kingsmill, just off of the James River, is a condo that feels as solid as a house, yet offers a view akin to being on a cruise ship, according to homeowners, Ursula and Leonhard Venne. 

“When you sit directly by the railing, to have your cup of coffee in the afternoon, it is really like sitting on a ship,” Ursula Venne explains. “The view is the very best part.”

In their condo at 605 River Bluffs, the Vennes explain they can be in any of the rooms and have a river view. The view has offered some interesting sights over the years including weather events like waterspouts, as well as spotting some river wildlife, such as dolphins.

“Ever since last year, they have a pattern of swimming down the James a short ways, and then return. And we saw 22 swans this year,” Ursula Venne says. “So for nature watchers, it’s quite nice. It’s a paradise.”

The layout of the home also offers a unique opportunity to be able to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset over the water from their bedroom, according to the couple.

In their living room, there’s a picture of a sunset over the fireplace that was taken on the balcony. Ursula explains that there is some healthy competition between the residents regarding sunset photos.

“There are some fabulous, fabulous sunsets, and neighbors here kind of compete with talking pictures,” Ursula Venne says.

In addition to appreciating the water views, next to the condo is a path which can be used to access the beach. The shoreline may provide some entertainment for some of the more geographically inclined residents, due to the layers of sediment that are visible when the tide is low.

“There is a wall about six foot high. All shells,” Leonhard Venne says. He explains he has spoken with someone who claims that the sediment dates back 80,000 years.

Even thought the Vennes enjoy the sights, the wildlife, and exploring the bluffs, they seem to enjoy returning home most of all.

“It’s my oasis,” Ursula Venne said. 

To learn more about the home, click here.

Where We Live is a weekly feature looking at homes the Historic Triangle. Do you have a home, on or off the market, that our readers may be interested in seeing? Let us know at [email protected].

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